Uncategorized - The Daily Groove

January Routines: New Beginnings & Unexpected Moments

The new year kicked off without a hangover, and honestly, that felt great! With time before work resumed and the kids went back to school, there was plenty to look forward to—even in that strange post-holiday limbo where days blur together.

A Cozy Girls’ Night In

Hosting isn’t my forte, but I started the year with a goal: more gatherings! So, I planned a pottery and grazing board evening with the girls. We hadn’t seen each other in ages, and instead of just eating and drinking (which we all did plenty of in December), I thought we’d add something fun.

The fire was on, the sofas were too inviting, and—truth be told—we barely got up to do any pottery! But seeing each other, catching up, and making new memories was worth it. Luckily, we now have a follow-up session planned to paint and glaze our creations, so another get-together is in the books.

A Midnight Snow Surprise

Just before midnight, a light snowfall graced us. Jon, always the one for spontaneous adventures, grabbed the kids and whispered, “Shoes on, coats up—let’s go play before it melts!” Unlike me (who might have said, “Wait till morning”), he ensured we made the most of the fleeting flurry. By morning, it was gone—but we had our magical late-night snowball fun.

Back to Work, Back to Reality

I’m lucky to love my job and the daily conversations with clients, both old and new. While not every day is perfect, most are spent feeling fulfilled, which is more than I can ask for.

Chasing Winter Sun

January had me longing for warmth, and Jon and I tried searching for a last-minute getaway. Tenerife promised sun but not heat, and while I dreamt of skiing, Jon reminded me that “skiing isn’t winter sun.” Fair point.

Meanwhile, I got back on the bike and hit some golf balls—surprisingly, I wasn’t entirely rusty! Golf is something I want to improve on this year, and maybe even enter some events.

Staycation Adventures

Instead of jetting off, Jon and I embraced a different kind of holiday: exploring locally.

Monday:

Van Gogh Interactive Experience: A mesmerizing look at the artist’s technique and life. I captured a 360° video in the final room—an unforgettable experience.
Hotto Potto: Authentic Sichuan hot pot, full of rich flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Omescape VR: Arizona Sunshine experience—vests, guns, chaos. Thrilling and slightly terrifying!
Clays: Indoor clay pigeon shooting meets cocktails—a fantastic (and hilariously competitive) time.
The Anchor Bankside: A drink at the historic riverside tavern where Shakespeare once roamed.

Tuesday:

Lancaster Bomber Flight Simulator: A surprise for Jon! He amazed the instructors—who even encouraged him to come back as an instructor himself.
Beach Walks with the Dogs: A refreshing, peaceful break by the water.
Dinner (Takeaway-style): A perfect kebab—the lamb was the best it’s ever been.

Wednesday:

Spa Day: A Christmas gift meant for relaxation, and wow, did it deliver. Sauna time, poolside reading, and the most calming massages ever.

Illness Hits Hard

By Thursday morning, I felt terrible—achy, exhausted, and unable to move. Golf, bouldering, wellness retreats, and gin-making plans were all canceled. The days blurred into medication and recovery mode.

Wrapping Up the Month

After a tough few days, I finally started feeling better. A much-needed breakfast catch-up with my neighbor was the perfect reset. We’ve promised to make this a monthly routine—because life gets busy, but meaningful connections matter.

January, you were eventful—equal parts epic and exhausting. Let’s hope that’s not the theme for the rest of 2025!

Categories: Uncategorized

Christmas Preparations and Celebrations

Christmas Preparations and Celebrations: A Festive Journey

As Christmas approaches, our house transforms into a festive wonderland with decorations going up early. However, they come down just a few days after Christmas as I crave a return to normality after weeks of excitement and the pressure of finding perfect gifts for loved ones.

This December, I had a couple of trips to Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital for an ongoing throat issue. My follow-up appointment at Pembury Hospital brought good news: I could choose between surgery or managing my condition, where my throat sometimes causes food to get lodged. I’ve learned to eat slower, take smaller bites, and be mindful of my eating habits. The surgery option is daunting, so I’m focusing on adapting my eating style.

Our annual Christmas light show was a highlight, and this year we attended the Leeds Castle lights. The event was spectacular, with a seamless flow, mini festival rides, and food options. Despite the potential for high costs, we enjoyed the experience without breaking the bank by bringing flasks of hot chocolate and purchasing a few extras. It was wonderful to share the excitement with friends and see the joy on the kids’ faces.

We balanced our festive activities with shopping trips to Bluewater and town, and cherished family time watching Christmas movies, playing on the computer, and enjoying our home. I feel incredibly lucky that we are content with what we have and don’t feel the need to constantly be out and about. However, it does take a lot to motivate us to go outside during the colder months, even though we love being outdoors in better weather.

Christmas Day is always special. I struggle to sleep on Christmas night, eager to see the kids’ faces. Malorie and Stan set an alarm to make the most of the day. We start with stockings and presents under the tree, then pack the van to visit the crematorium and sing carols with my cousins from my dad’s side. This tradition, which began when I was 17, keeps my cousin’s memory alive and brings us together every year.

After the crematorium, we visit Nanny and Ganga for kisses, cuddles, and coffee before heading to my parents’ house. This year, we spent the day with my brother’s family, enjoying fabulous food and great company. With the kids older now, there’s no need for damage control, and we can simply enjoy each other’s presence. Hearing the kids laugh and play is the best part of Christmas for me.

As the day winds down, someone usually falls asleep—this year, it was Jon, which was a rare and funny sight. Nick’s family left earlier to visit Julia’s side, so we decided to give my parents some peace after their wonderful hosting. We ended the night with coffee and chocolates at Nanny and Ganga’s before heading to bed, ready for Boxing Day.

Boxing Day Feasts and New Year Reflections

Boxing Day is always a feast from start to finish. Lynda takes pride in catering for everyone, ensuring our favourite foods are in abundance. We spend a relaxed day around the dining table and lounge, which is exactly what we need after the Christmas build-up and the day itself. Relaxing on the sofa, surrounded by our favourite foods, is such a treat. For the past two years, we’ve talked about an Easter holiday and ended up booking it on Boxing Day. This year, we spent the afternoon finding the best deals and locations for a week away. We booked it all up, got super excited, and watched YouTube videos of the hotel and area, which heightened our excitement even more.

As the festive season comes to an end, we find ourselves in the limbo of a new year looming but still have time off to fill with activities and memory-making. We enjoyed some chilled days, appreciating our new items and relaxing at home—there’s nothing better. One of our Christmas presents to all of us was tickets to the War of the Worlds interactive experience in London on the 29th. It was a lovely day out, with a train ride, good food, and an amazing experience in London with the cousins. I can’t recommend it enough.

As December draws to an end and so does the year 2024, I find myself reflecting on the past year. While I often hope the following year will be bigger and better, 2024 has been a happy year for the most part. If we all remain happy and healthy like we have this year, what more could I wish for? Blogging has allowed me to reflect on our months and realize that we do plenty, we are happy, and I feel very fulfilled and content. While I can always wish for more, I realised I needed to enjoy the journey don’t rush it, keep learning, and reflect on our achievements, and sometimes just slow down.

Malorie’s best friend, Arabella, turned 13 on New Year’s Eve, and it’s always a pleasure to see out the year with her family and friends. They welcome us in and don’t let us go, and we love it. I hope your year has been filled with love, health, and success. Here’s to 2025: start it strong and keep going.

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November: A Month of Birthdays and Adventures

November is always crazy and manic for our family, with birthdays galore. My nephews, Jon’s niece, Malorie, mum, aunties, and cousin all celebrate their birthdays before the 21st. It feels like I’m fuelled by cake and party food during this month. I love it because we all get together, do nice things, and celebrate, but it often feels like a real rush.

**Riding and Cold Water Spa**

Apart from the birthdays, we didn’t have much planned. Unfortunately, the lady I had started riding with had a car crash and broke her shoulder.

For Mum’s present, we went to the cold water spa at St. Andrews Lake. It was her first time doing cold water dips. She wasn’t sure at first but then embraced it and loved it, often staying in for a good few minutes. It’s easier knowing you can warm up in one of the log-fired hot tubs or sauna. It really is rejuvenating and makes your body tingle all over. I love the effects it has on me and feel super energized for the rest of the day.

**Podcasting and YouTube Goals**

I did a couple more podcasts during November. The owner of the podcast rebranded and has some exciting plans for it going forward.

Towards the end of October, Jon and I decided to aim for our YouTube channel to become monetized through our content. It’s exciting but also a minefield. We’re going to concentrate on a couple of areas, so the content won’t be too varied. That’s not to say the content on our blog won’t include all of what we do because it will. If people want to know more about what we do, they can check out the blog. For now, we’re focusing more on gaming, campervan, and cooking videos. It has gone really well, and we’ve made strides in watched hours and subscriptions to the channel. I hope that early 2025 will see us monetized. Who knows where it could take us and what we could achieve for the kids.

I’ll leave a link to our family channel here https://www.youtube.com/@TheDailyGroov

If you have suggestions on what content we can create that you would like to see, please comment below, and we can see what we can do.

**Winter is Coming**

As November drew to an end, we finished it off with the Williams Syndrome Christmas party. We celebrated with a few families and brought our special individuals together in an evening of constant chatter and laughter. Its always so amazing to see the individuals with Williams syndrome come together, they really do have a special bond.

The nights came in earlier, and things got colder, greyer, and incredibly dull. It’s tough to get motivated for outdoor adventures in such weather, so we may do more building tutorials through the darker months and cooking videos. There will also be plenty of gaming content, as that’s what we do most nights.

As always, thanks for coming along on the journey with us and watching us grow. Stay active, keep healthy, and see you after Christmas. Enjoy the festivities and family time, and make plenty of memories.

Categories: Uncategorized

Busy Times and Fun Adventures

I won’t lie—things have been really busy the last few months, and I’ve found myself two months behind on writing this blog. This month’s post will be short and sweet, but that doesn’t mean we didn’t manage to cram in some adventures.

**Mountain Biking and Coral Reef Waterpark**

Early on, we decided to get some more mountain biking in before the bad weather set in. To make it extra enjoyable, we tried out the Coral Reef Waterpark opposite the bike park. The marketing team had done a smashing job of making it look amazing, so our expectations were high. However, the reality was somewhat of a letdown. The whole place was tired, with new paint needed everywhere and rust marks leaking into the pool. The overwhelming stench of chlorine made our eyes so sore we could barely keep them open. The queue system for the flumes was pretty terrible; at one point, Stanley and I stood for 45 minutes for one flume, and you only get 1.5 hours for your time slot. The price was high too—around £47 for the allocated time. It wasn’t our best experience at a UK water park, but the kids did enjoy themselves. Give them water and some flumes, and they don’t see the bad.

[Coral Reef Waterworld](https://www.everyoneactive.com/centre/coral-reef-waterworld/)

**Pickleball Fun**

In October, I tried Pickleball with one of my oldest friends. We hit some balls on the golf range first and then headed straight to the court. Both of us were blissfully unaware of the rules, so we made up our own mixture between squash, table tennis, and tennis. It was hilarious to see us trying our hardest around a court we later found out was for four people rather than the two of us. But we had so much fun that we rebooked! The whole morning was a great way to keep my eye in with golf, get some exercise, and laugh a lot with an old friend. My immaturity crept back with our stupid sense of humour.

**Rickie’s Annual Golf Day**

Mid-October, the weather was still surprisingly kind, and with that in mind came Rickie’s annual golf day. Plenty of alcohol and laughs were had with the guys I used to play with every day. This day single-handedly takes me back to my late teens and early 20s. My game seemed to improve after a few beers at half-time, and I started to pull my weight in the scoring department. But on a charity day with this much love and laughter, who cares about the golf?

[Gift of Golf](https://rnj-giftofgolf.com/)

**Expanding Our Online Presence**

To add to our online presence, I started looking into doing some podcasts and joined a team called GoingOB podcast. These guys are from Scotland, and we’ve produced a few episodes. I really enjoyed myself and realized I’m not too bad at it. I love to talk, and this came easy to me. Whether it’s any good to listen to, only time will tell, but I’m enjoying it as it comes.

You can find us on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@GoingOBTV), iTunes, and Spotify.

**Medical Procedures and Borough Market**

I had a couple of procedures that required me to travel to Guy’s Hospital in London. I’m not going to talk too much about this, but I did post a short video on our channel showing the tube being removed from my stomach through my nose. Yuk! It was horrible and there for 24 miserable hours. But after it was removed, we visited Borough Market, where we tasted some incredible foods and saw an abundance of food selections. We didn’t know what to eat! More videos are on our YouTube channel. In the end, we had a lovely day.

**Halloween Festivities**

Halloween is a huge event in our house, and with half-term landing smack on it, we could have our decorations up early and enjoy them for longer than a week this time. Stanley obsesses over Halloween and often asks for different animatronic props every year. Jon and I organize a street party and invite all the neighbours to come and enjoy soup and snacks for dinner out front with smoke machines, scary music, and hot food served next to the van. Our neighbours really embraced it this year, with many dressing for the occasion. It was a huge success, and we can’t wait to make it bigger and better next year.

The half-term was full of Halloween activities, culminating in our big party on the last day. October felt like a quiet one, but looking back, we managed to achieve a lot with plenty of friend and family time.

Categories: Uncategorized

September is smoothed out…This is how it went down.

September Updates: Stanley’s School and Health Journey

September has been a busy month for us as we prepared for Stanley’s transition to secondary school. We’ve been organising and setting up new systems to ensure a smooth start.

At the end of August, Stanley began experiencing chest pains. While this initially caused concern, we had to carefully consider all symptoms. Stanley’s condition makes it challenging to interpret his complaints, as his reactions can amplify symptoms. We adopted a cautious approach, monitoring him closely while downplaying the situation to avoid unnecessary stress.

Despite his complaints, Stanley continued to play and eat normally. After several weeks of persistent chest pain, we contacted his associated hospital in London for advice. September involved multiple trips to clinics, doctors, and undergoing blood tests and heart scans to identify any underlying issues.

The results showed nothing obvious, and the recommendation was to keep monitoring him. If concerns arise, we were advised to take him to A&E.

Living with Williams Syndrome: Our September Adventures

We don’t often discuss how having a disabled child affects our holidays, day trips, and general lifestyle because we wouldn’t have it any other way. Stanley, who has Williams Syndrome, brings far more to our lives than he takes away. This condition has shown us how wonderful life can be, but also how terrifying simple or fun activities can become.

Facing Fears and Embracing Adventures

Activities like swimming, riding a bike, or visiting theme parks can send Stanley into a frenzy of worry. He often panics about potential dangers, like falling off a bike or being scared by rides and slides. Our motto is to try everything once. If he doesn’t like it, he doesn’t have to do it again. This approach has mostly led to joy and a sense of accomplishment for Stanley, even though there have been some rides he’s hated passionately.

September’s Health Check-ups

September also brought eye tests for the whole family. Malorie has perfect vision, but Stanley, Jon, and I needed glasses. It was Stanley’s first time needing glasses, and he had a love-hate relationship with trying them on. He was particularly fond of a pair of gold-rimmed aviators, which, although unsuitable, made him look hilarious.

Cherishing Everyday Moments

September seemed to fly by with school and work routines. Despite the busyness, we cherished small moments like watching “The Rookie” with Malorie in the evenings and enjoying morning snuggles before school. Reflecting on our busy, adventure-filled summer and planning for what’s next has been much needed. Jon developed a new passion in cooking meats long and slow searing meat spikes and basically anything involving meat and flavours. He has managed to produce the most mouth watering meat dishes I’m looking forward to whats next on the menu!!

Malorie and I got back out on the bikes but ventured to a jump park which was way too advanced for us, but that being said its always nice to get out in the fresh air and ride the bikes. I came off and nearly lost my saddle (if you know what I mean). I was sore for a fair few days after that hahaha. From dog walking in our local woods and testing out some new lines the local boys had created I seem to be enjoying the bike more and more. Stanley doesn’t love exercise so we have now joined him to our local trampoline park as he absolutely loves bouncing its sociable fun and he has no idea its exercise so its a win win…

Growing Our YouTube Channel

Our YouTube channel is growing nicely, with videos of the van and short clips on the bike proving popular. Documenting everyday life is wonderful, and I hope it’s something the kids will look back on fondly. Being at home and enjoying our surroundings is as special as planning our next adventure.

It’s the small things that often bring the most pleasure. A slow September has left us eagerly anticipating the Halloween madness of October!

Don’t miss out on our family videos, where we share our adventures, custom build projects on Monster Jam cars, and tips on packing the campervan for our next big trip.

Join us in having fun, living life to the fullest, and getting into a Daily Groove!

Some of our new videos you can access from these links they are campervan packing and Jon and I gaming of an evening. If that isn’t to your liking take a look at our other videos.

https://www.youtube.com/@TheDailyGroov

Packing A Campervan 4 years on. 2024 Update

Swinley Forest Mountain Biking #beginners #mtb

Categories: Uncategorized

August: The Month of Outdoor Adventures

August always feels like the only summer month we truly plan for outdoor adventures. It’s the time for activities, weekend trips, play dates, and pure relaxation (well, not really relaxing at all!). The biggest plus? No school traffic!

This year, I decided to work for two and a half weeks and take the other two and a half off to spend time with the kids. It won’t be long before they aren’t interested in spending their summers with me, so I’m making the most of it while I can. I also bought a bike and couldn’t wait to start using it at the beginning of the holidays.

We kicked off one weekend with an impromptu getaway to reunite with some much-loved camping friends at Clippesby, after three years apart. It was amazing to see how much the kids had grown. We arrived on Friday and enjoyed a cheeky day and a secret night on the edge of the campsite. We spent the day with our friends, had dinner, quiz nights, and lots of laughs. The next day was filled with tennis, arcade games, crazy golf, and bike riding. We hadn’t realised how much we missed them and Clippesby.

Our friends have already told us their dates for next year, and our kids are desperate to go back. We’re hoping to take our niece and nephew too, as they would love it. The mix of kids is just great fun. Definitely something to look forward to!

As a regional representative for Williams Syndrome UK, my role involves organising a few days each year for Williams syndrome adults, children, and their families to meet, share stories, and support each other. Recently, I planned a summer picnic at Leeds Castle, expecting a good turnout of about 18 people. While these events are always a bit stressful for me—ensuring everyone’s safety and a positive experience in public—I find them incredibly rewarding.

Williams syndrome individuals are known for their friendliness, sometimes to the point of being overly friendly, which can be off-putting to the general public. However, the more time I spend with them, the more I appreciate their unique perspective on the world. They see everyone as a friend, which is truly magical. After today’s successful picnic, I’m eagerly looking forward to our Christmas party, the first one we’ve had in several years.

On a personal note, the weather has been kind lately, and today was my best friend’s birthday. To celebrate, we, along with another friend, decided to go paddle boarding at the Paddle Cabin. This location is fantastic—friendly, helpful, and welcoming. We arrived early, set up, and launched down the river. The tranquillity was only interrupted by my constant chatter as I tried to catch up with my friends. Despite our busy lives, we always pick up right where we left off, and I’m so grateful for their unwavering friendship.

Exploring the Great Outdoors: Biking, Paddle Boarding, and Wild Camping Adventures

This past month has been an exhilarating journey of outdoor adventures and spontaneous trips. I had the chance to take my bike out a few times, exploring the local woods and the North Downs. It was an incredible experience to get to know my bike better and push my limits. The thrill of the ride through the scenic trails was unmatched.

Afternoons were often spent paddle boarding at Mote Park, our local gem. This award-winning park is phenomenal, and we love spending time on the lake, especially when it involves a delicious ice cream treat. The serene waters and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect spot for relaxation and fun.

Our trusty van had been undergoing some much-needed repairs and was finally ready, although a few weeks later we discovered the issue wasn’t fully resolved. Nevertheless, we decided to embark on a spontaneous late-night train journey to Barnsley up north. After a hefty train ride, we arrived at our destination at 12:15 AM. We made our way to a Premier Inn to rest for the night before picking up the van in the morning, ready to head off to the Lake District.

By 9 AM, we were on our way, fully packed with our clothes, paddle board, and kayak, eager for some lake fun. The next few days were spent wild camping, wild swimming, and embracing the feral lifestyle as we explored various lakes. A special trip to Ullswater was a highlight, as it holds a special place in our hearts—Jon and I got engaged and had our honeymoon there. The memories of paddle boarding and kayaking on as many lakes as possible, eating fantastic food, playing cards, and rock painting were incredible. The breathtaking scenery was appreciated by all.

Looking ahead to next year, we’ve decided to extend our adventure with three nights of wild camping, one night at the Inn On The Lake, and another three nights of wild camping. We’re excited to try water rafting, walking alpacas, and maybe even a bushcraft session. The anticipation of new experiences and creating more unforgettable memories is already building.

A Journey Through Chatsworth House and Beyond

As we journeyed back south, we made a delightful stop at Chatsworth House. The farm and its new play area were simply amazing, and the kids had an absolute blast. I was initially concerned that it might be too young for Malorie, but she thoroughly enjoyed herself, especially when she got to hold the guinea pigs. The farm shop was the most extravagant one I’ve ever seen, offering a unique shopping experience.

The trip home was smooth, although we discovered that the van hadn’t been fully repaired. Unfortunately, this means another trip up north to replace the solar panel and head unit.

August Bank Holiday Weekend: Golf and Laughter

The August bank holiday weekend promised to be a wild one. I reunited with a childhood best friend for a weekend of golf at Princes Golf Club. We played 27 holes a day, accompanied by plenty of drinks. Despite my initial doubts about surviving the weekend, it turned out to be one of the most fun experiences I’ve had in a long time. The golf was mediocre, but the laughter, fantastic food, and the company of amazing people made it all worthwhile. It was a soul-refreshing weekend.

Final Week of August: Adventures in Wales

The last week of August was packed with more travel and excitement. I convinced my parents to join us on a trip to the Brecon Beacons in Wales, specifically so Malorie and I could visit Bike Park Wales. My parents were thrilled to come along, as they had friends who recently moved there for retirement.

This time, we stayed at a lovely site instead of roughing it. The site was within walking distance of a quaint pub where we enjoyed a meal in a hut overlooking the mountains. These moments with my parents are incredibly precious, filled with laughter and joy. The kids and we benefit immensely from having them close, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Malorie and I set off early to Bike Park Wales, leaving the others to explore a distillery and wander around local towns. After a thrilling day on the trails, where Malorie had a spectacular fall, we all met up at Zip World. We had tickets for the fastest seated zipline in the world. I had booked four tickets, knowing Stan wouldn’t want to go on it. Jon stayed back with Stan, and they enjoyed the rollercoaster while we zipped down the lines. The experience was fantastic, and the video is up on our YouTube channel. It was expensive but worth every penny.

After a day full of adventure, we returned to our site and cooked up a storm on the BBQs. We slowly packed away, preparing for an early departure the next day. I can’t wait to return; the landscape was breathtaking, and the bike park was unreal. I barely scratched the surface of what it had to offer.

August Adventures: Embracing the Wild

August was nothing short of incredible. We travelled, we lived out of our van, and we embraced a semi-feral lifestyle. We pushed the boundaries of what we could achieve on a budget and discovered new levels of comfort. To say we’re excited about our next summer holiday would be an understatement. I’m eagerly anticipating more mini adventures and some winter escapades this year. The goal is to make the most of our van as much as possible.

September: Back to Routine

As September rolls in, we find ourselves returning to routine and a sense of normality. While I cherish the wild and free lifestyle, there’s something wonderfully comforting about walking through your front door and cooking in your own kitchen. Six weeks of adventure just wasn’t enough, but it’s always good to be left wanting more.

So, get out there, have fun, get messy, find your limits, and push beyond them.

Categories: Uncategorized

July Adventures: Embracing Summer and Cherishing Memories

July has always been a month I eagerly anticipate. With summer in full swing, our van is ready to create countless memories and hopefully have epic adventures. This July was particularly emotional as Stanley finished primary school, gearing up for a fun-filled summer before starting secondary school. Meanwhile, Malorie wrapped up her first year of secondary school, cherishing the friendships and memories made, which were filled with more ups than downs.

We kicked off the month with a spontaneous van trip just five minutes away to enjoy the county show. This grand event celebrates our local farming and agricultural community, showcasing prize-winning sheep, cows, and bulls. The show also features horse shows and various competitions, making for a jam-packed weekend. We camped at a charming local site, and my parents joined us too.

Despite the typical cold, drizzly weather with occasional patches of much-needed sunshine, we made the most of the weekend. We marvelled at the massive machinery, enjoyed a few rides, and admired the livestock. The show truly highlights the agricultural heritage of our county, and it was a joy to experience it together. We all had a fantastic time!

Our camping weekend was cut short due to unfavourable weather. We spent all of Saturday at the show before packing up and making the short five-minute journey home to enjoy a dry night. This was especially important as I had an early start for county week, representing our county in golf over the next few days in North Hants. Playing and representing my county is such a privilege, and being surrounded by enthusiastic girls at the start of their golfing careers is truly inspiring. Although we didn’t perform to our usual standards, there’s always next year. Our team camaraderie is incredible, and we support each other until the very end. This is exactly what I missed during my years away from team sports. Until next year, you little beauts!

Back home, having missed my little cherubs, Jon treated us to a meal at La Tasca, a charming Spanish restaurant. It was a great opportunity to use some of the Spanish I had learned and enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine.

We finally made it back to Swinley Forest for some biking action. Malorie and I noticed we were much more capable the second time around. We even managed to get some serious airtime (serious to us, anyway). The weather was kind, and the boys joined us, enjoying their RC time through the woods while the dogs loved it too. Despite the awful traffic and nearly missing our bike hire slot, the well-maintained tracks were a joy to ride. Suitable for all abilities, we tried as many routes as possible. After this trip, we decided to surprise Malorie with her very own mountain bike. We visited an independent bike shop and found a fantastic bike with great components for her first downhill ride.

July continued with a mix of weather, but luckily, the sun shone when we needed it most. With school leavers’ parties and events for Stanley, our diary was always full. I actually love seeing an empty diary because it means we can be spontaneous and grab a cheeky weekend away in the van if the weather is kind.

On Friday the 17th, Malorie’s new bike arrived in a huge box. We had to assemble the remaining wheel and double-check everything. As soon as school was out and the sun dipped slightly, we headed to the local woods to test out the new wheels. She did so well, tackling some of the trickier sections. We’re so lucky to have these tracks, developed by enthusiasts over the years, right on our doorstep. While some parts are slightly too advanced for us, we can bail out of the bigger jumps when needed. No doubt, we’ll spend many hours in these woods over the summer.

To mark the end of Stanley’s primary and junior school journeys, we booked a night at Chessington World of Adventures, his favourite place to watch on YouTube, especially Mandrel Mayhem, a big roller coaster. Thanks to our hotel stay, we could enter the park an hour before general admission. We made the most of it by running around to get on Mandrel Mayhem a few times. We had such a great day and really made the most of it. We always try to get Stan on as many rides as possible. He might opt out initially, but once he’s done it, he’s elated.

As July drew to a close, we welcomed the start of our six-week summer holidays. Malorie had put together a lovely summer holiday bucket list, filled with activities to enjoy throughout the break. We ticked off a few early on, including making hug t-shirts with her cousin Ava. They painted each other’s arms while wearing white shirts, so they always have a hug when needed.

The weather looked promising for the last weekend of July, so we packed the van and headed to our favourite seaside pub to spend the night and catch the sunrise in the morning. We played cards, tackled mini IQ games, enjoyed amazing food, laughed, walked, and cherished a night of family time. These are the moments that fill my heart with joy, making me feel incredibly lucky to have these experiences.

After a few gins, I checked the sunrise time (which will be etched in my mind forever) and set my alarm for 3:50 AM, giving us enough time to throw on jumpers and shoes and head to the beach. The alarm went off without a hitch, and everyone joined me. We strolled along the front, waiting for the beautiful orange glow on the horizon. I kept saying, “Any minute now, guys, you’ll see it.” But it never came. Later, I found out my phone had switched to French time, and we were an hour early! The pub is so close to France that my phone automatically changed time zones.

As we were getting back into bed, still puzzled about the missing sunrise, Stanley exclaimed, “Wow, it’s really orange out there, it’s beautiful!” From the pop-top roof, he was watching the sun rise. I took a look, and sure enough, it had just risen and was stunning—all from the comfort of our beds.

Reflecting on July: Love, Excitement, and Adventure

July was filled with love, excitement, and adventure. I can’t wait to see what August has in store for us. Get out more, have fun, and spend as much time together as possible. Yes, there will be arguments and moments of dislike, but that’s what families do. Make memories, do silly things, and include as many people in your plans as possible. Life is for living, and I can honestly say I feel grateful every day for my lot. See you in August!

If you feel we are the type of family you would like to review a holiday/getaway or an outdoor event please send me requests via my email partnerships@getoutmore.blog

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June: A Month of Highs and Lows

June Adventures: From France to Local Escapes

After an action-packed May, I was ready to hit the ground running in June. We returned from our holiday in France, but our van had a few issues that were bothering Jon. Thankfully, it passed its MOT (a test to ensure road worthiness in the UK), which made us happy. However, the solar panels, fridge, and electrical head unit still had some glitches. At least it was road-safe!

With France feeling like a distant memory and our school and work routines back in full swing, I started planning new mountain biking adventures for Malorie and me. The van is perfect for a Friday night pub stopover followed by Saturday exploration. I considered Bedgebury Forest, but with its challenging uphills, I felt Malorie wasn’t quite ready for it yet.

The first weekend of June, we celebrated Ganga’s birthday with a meal at the local pub and gifted him and Lynda a year’s membership to English Heritage sites. They love their days out and enjoy taking the kids to local castles and attractions. Check out the English Heritage website to see the amazing places you can visit.

Family Moments and Golfing Adventures: Mid-June Recap

The next few weeks were all about family time, with fewer adventures but plenty of cherished moments. Whether it was enjoying meals with grandparents or snuggling up to watch “Clarkson’s Farm” (a household favorite), we made the most of every moment.

Every week, we have “Red Wine Thursday” at my parents’ house, where Mum prepares a lavish spread of fine foods, desserts, and wine. While Dad and I skip the wine, it’s a treat for Jon, Mum, and occasionally my sister-in-law. This particular Thursday, we hosted at our place to celebrate our newly finished kitchen. Equipped with a new cocktail maker, we mixed up a variety of cocktails as the sun shone and we enjoyed steak and salad. The evening ended with Mum asleep on the couch and Molly, their dog, having a sleepover since they needed to order a taxi!

Mid-June saw me back on the golf course for the fourth time this year. Cycling has taken over as my main hobby, but I still love golf. I traveled south to Princes Golf Club, a UK top 100 course where I spent many weekends growing up. I played golf with my dad (his Father’s Day present), a client who is a country member, and a talented female golfer with a great sense of humor. The conditions were perfect, and it was a great way to prepare for representing the county ladies’ team at County Week next month.

Wrapping Up June: Family Photoshoot and Summer Hopes

As June drew to a close, we had one last treat planned—a family photoshoot for Mum’s 65th birthday, which had been postponed due to bad weather. We gathered in our favourite woods, dressed in coordinating neutral colours, and let the dogs run free. Amanda, our photographer, was fantastic, capturing us as we strolled, laughed, and goofed around with the kids. We had so much fun, and I can’t wait to see the results, even though I’m a bit nervous about how I’ll look in the photos. My husband always jokes that I look better in real life than in pictures—haha, we’ll see!

The sun was shining, the dogs were playing, and it felt idyllic to enjoy nature while watching the kids chat, play, and mess about together. Moments like these make me feel truly blessed to have such a wonderful family and to live near places where we can be together outdoors.

Pedaling Through Swinley Forest: A Family Adventure”🚴‍♂️

As June drew to a close, our family embarked on an impromptu cycling escapade to Swinley Forest. Picture this: a quick phone call to Mum, and suddenly we found ourselves loading up the campervan with not just our two kids but also my brother’s two. Destination? Swinley, of course—a lush forest waiting to be explored.

The weather? Perfect. The forest? Enchanting. And the kids? Well, they were positively buzzing with excitement. But here’s the best part: No broken bones! Yep, we managed to return all four kiddos with their limbs intact. High-fives all around! 🙌

Our campervan served as our cosy base, parked near a friendly pub. From there, we set off on our bikes, weaving through the sun-dappled trails of Swinley. The scent of pine, the crunch of leaves under our tires—it was pure magic. And as tired as we were by the end of the weekend, a new flame had been lit within us: the desire to explore more bike trails, using our trusty van as our mobile home.

Reflecting on it now, I feel incredibly fortunate that we have this van in our lives. It’s become more than just a vehicle; it’s our ticket to adventure, our shared memory-maker. Truly, it’s the best decision our family ever made.

So here’s to Swinley Forest, to campervans, and to the joy of pedalling through life together! 🌿🚐💕

June ended with more school trips and commitments. Work was busy, and we’re still settling into life with our new kitchen, constantly pinching ourselves that it’s finally done and we love it.

I’m hoping for a sunny summer so we can fully enjoy paddle boarding, cycling, forest exploring, campervanning, and more summer activities. Until next month, have fun, get outside, take a deep breath, and embrace the adventure!

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“May Madness” Its all I know😊

May Madness didn’t start with a bang. It began quietly, wrapped in relaxation and mindfulness. My Kindle was my constant companion—I’d been devouring books. Recently, I discovered Shari Low, an author who instantly hooked me with her characters from the very first chapter. Those who knew me growing up might find it surprising—I wasn’t much of a reader. But there’s something magical about books—their scent, the cosy corners of bookshops, and the tactile feel of pages. Call me sentimental, but sitting in a bookshop with a cup of coffee feels like romantic escapism. 😊

Stanley had his annual checkup with Dr. Pandya, his favourite paediatrician. She conducted a thorough examination and was impressed by Stanley’s recent achievements. Williams syndrome affects individuals differently, making each journey unique—an emotional rollercoaster. But in Stanley’s world, everything is fantastic: exciting, interesting, and filled with friends. What more could a young lad ask for? 😊

Continuing from our April adventures, Malorie and I have been avid mountain bikers. My fitness has improved steadily over the weeks. Recently, we enrolled in a beginner’s mountain biking class led by Scott Wilson, a seven-time British champion. Scott not only guided us through tackling different track sections, choosing lines, and adjusting our body weight on the bike to smoothly navigate obstacles, but he also taught us how to do wheelies—a skill that thrilled Malorie.

Beginner Mountain Biking Class

The next day, feeling a bit tight in my muscles, I headed to the driving range with the Kent Ladies Squad. My body felt stiff, and swinging the golf club seemed unnatural. After a brief warm-up and some friendly chatter with the girls, it all came back to me. Although mountain biking has taken centre stage lately, golf remains a passionate pursuit. Note to self: more practice needed before county match week! 😊

As May progresses, we welcomed a special visitor for a week: Molly, my parents’ massive chocolate Labrador. She’s affectionate, waggly, and always up for a cosy couch cuddle. The kids adore her, and so do I—though dealing with her shedding and the ‘cheese tax’ whenever food is around can be a challenge!

In addition to doggy adventures, I’ve been ramping up my walking this month. Why? Because I’m participating in the Moonwalk for breast cancer on May 18th and 19th—a 26.1-mile night time trek through London. My preparation has been minimal: a round of golf with an old friend and a 19.7 km walk on a Monday. I thought I’d be fine, given my past experience as a professional golfer and my commitment to staying fit. But boy, was I wrong!

Walking nonstop for 9 hours, with only bathroom breaks and waiting for others, took a toll on my hips. It was an eye-opener. A friend who had recently completed the London Marathon confirmed that walking the Moonwalk was even tougher. Unlike the marathon, which boasts daytime crowds and electric energy, the Moonwalk is a different beast. The start and finish areas are well-organised, with music and camaraderie as we walk for those battling breast cancer or in memory of loved ones who fought hard.

As we strolled along the river, the city’s iconic buildings illuminated in pink, the night grew darker—not just because of the hour! Laughter, pain, and emotion filled the journey. People sat on curbsides, some stumbled and needed assistance. And as the finish line came into view, I wondered if it would ever arrive. Yet, the cause—the fight against this awful disease—and the bravery of those affected kept us going.

Now, the question I’m often asked is: Will I do it again? Right now, my answer is no. But who knows? Maybe it’ll be like childbirth—the pain and memories are too fresh to consider, but time may change my mind.” 😊

Moon Walk Ready
A finisher medal

“In the latter half of May, our world transformed into May Madness! After recovering from the Moonwalk, we dove headfirst into kitchen demolition and prepped for our campervan holiday in France.

Our kitchen now resembles chaos: worktops, cabinets, sinks, and taps sprawled throughout the house. It’s an absolute mess, but Jon and I have waited 16 years for this renovation. We were ecstatic!

Amidst the dust tsunami settling on every surface, I focused on packing for our French adventure. But before we embarked, I celebrated a dear friend’s life. Sarah, whom I met through the school mum group, lost her battle to cancer in May. Her uplifting funeral celebrated her life—a lady, mum, daughter, and friend with an infectious smile and zest for adventure. Rest in peace, my friend.

We adore camping in France, especially at Sandaya resorts. These luxurious spots check all the boxes: cleanliness, spacious pitches, pools, activities, and friendly staff. This year, Malorie’s friend joined us, adding to the fun. Our days were filled with pool time, crepes, ice creams, and mocktails. Card games, Viking chess, and Uno kept us entertained. A cultural stopover in Le Mans on our way back added a touch of history. Next year can’t come soon enough!” 😊

As we journeyed home, the final day of May slipped away. Reflecting on this emotional month, I feel grateful for every experience. Remember to savour life’s little moments and embrace new adventures—it’s always worth it. Until next month, take care and get out there! 😊

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April Adventures

As April winds down, I’m reflecting on the month’s highlights, from family moments to our little escapades.

The month kicked off with the excitement of Easter weekend and the school break. Our son Stanley, who has Williams syndrome, has a few unique passions. He adores Halloween animatronics, revels in the chaos of MonsterJam, and is captivated by the Godzilla and Kong movies—much to my delight, as I’m a fan of the Monsterverse myself. His fascination with remote control vehicles is vast, but dinosaurs hold a special place in his heart.

A highlight of the month was the dinosaur adventure show, a Christmas gift from my parents. Stanley was thrilled, engaging other kids and adults with his T-Rex hand puppet. The show was a hit, and we wrapped up the day with a delightful meal at Waggamummas.

Continue reading on for more tales, including our trip to Portugal for a milestone birthday celebration and our explorations of Vilamoura harbour’s beauty. It’s been a month of packing excitement, Instagram-worthy moments, and culinary delights. Here’s to the adventures that await us! 🦕✨

April’s End: A Family Journey to Portugal and Easter Fun

As April’s days give way to May, I’m eager to share our family’s recent escapades. Our journey began with a whirlwind of packing for a special trip to Portugal to celebrate Lynda’s 75th birthday. With a generous 20 kg baggage allowance each, we indulged in packing our favourite things. Suitcases filled, passports in hand, and hearts full of anticipation, we set off for the sunny embrace of Portugal.

Our stay was graced with an apartment that was a feast for the eyes, perfect for Instagram. Vilamoura harbour dazzled us with its array of boats and a horizon lined with restaurants offering the freshest seafood—a true delight for any food lover.

Though the weather was shy of warm, our spirits weren’t dampened. We filled our days with beach outings, shopping sprees, rounds of crazy golf, and indulgent meals. The week was a blend of relaxation, laughter, card games, and cheerful toasts. Leaving was bittersweet, but the thought of reuniting with our dogs and the kids’ longing for their own space made it easier.

The Easter break continued with outdoor adventures—mountain biking and Stanley’s fitting for a new trike. Cyclopark became our playground, and Malorie embarked on her journey with a new brace. From sleepovers to paddleboarding and kayaking, we seized every moment before the return to school routines.

This is the beauty of self-employment; I cherish the flexibility to create these memories while the kids still enjoy our time together. Here’s to the adventures that lie ahead! 🚴‍♂️🌊🎉

April Reflections: Back to Routine and Celebrations

As we transition back to school and work, life regains a sense of normalcy. This week was particularly exciting for me with two golf competitions at courses I adore. My performance was satisfying, culminating in a third-place finish in the county championships. The cherry on top? My ‘golfing wifey’ clinched the victory, which brought me immense joy.

St. George’s Day was a festive affair at my father-in-law’s house. Decked out in wigs, flags, and silly hats, we feasted on a sumptuous rib of beef roast, complemented by caramelised onions, buns, chutneys, and a cheese board. It was an evening replete with laughter and culinary delights.

Reflecting on April, it was chillier than expected. A glimpse of the sun would have been nice, but now I’m set for a splendid May. In a bid for self-improvement, I’ve embraced cleaner eating, committed fasting, and regular exercise, including walks and mountain biking with the kids. I’m eager to maintain this momentum through May. Here’s to hoping you too can relish the outdoors—it’s remarkable how it uplifts the spirit. Don’t let it slip your mind! 🌿⛳🚴‍♂️