Blake Family Blog

Preparing for Christmas

2010-12-23T10:39:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Lewis and I headed up to London to the theatre to see the Lion King. It was a great show but sadly no photos (not allowed). So instead here are a couple of photos taken in the Rainforest Cafe at lunchtime:

Scary Snake

Sooooo cute, Sooooo soft, Sooooo cuddly - Now put him down!

Here is a photo from a couple of weeks ago when we decorated the Christmas Tree. Now he's growing up I have less and less to do.

Today was mince pie making. Lewis' favourite Christmas treat,(apart from cheesecake - oh yes I forgot that's not traditional Christmas, just our recent important additive to the desert menu):

Snow Day 1st December!!

2010-12-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning we awoke to snow, only a couple of inches so not too bad. The journey out of the village was a little hairy but I was very glad that Tony had bought the Subaru (and even more pleased that he had left it here and not at the airport whilst he is away).

A pretty morning sight

The snow continued to fall all day yesterday and then a little more overnight so after an hour long journey home from school (one I really don't want to repeat in a hurry), and hearing of too many other dreadful stories of long journeys that should also have been short, we have decided to have a snow day at home.

The garden is well and truly covered.

Lewis was sent home yesterday with plenty of work to keep him busy, and school have very kindly e-mailed a load more for tomorrow. At least we can study at home together.

My industrious boy

Then it was time to get outside and have some fun.

My Angel!

Yes, shortly after this was taken both handfuls came hurtling in my direction.

CATCHING UP

2010-09-23T08:27:00.001-07:00

I am so far behind on blog posts once again I decided pictures say 1000's words so here goes with just a selection of things that have happened in the Blake household over the summer:

High in the sky on the London Eye

Faces painted at Chessington

Meeting his Hero

A Visit to Great Nanna

Fun Cars at Beaulieu Motor Museum

Top Gear Exhibition

Highcliffe Beach

Go Karting with Daddy

Walking on Water

Now Underwater

Day out in Lymington

Lewis collecting his next Kung Fu grading certificate

Making Pizzas at Nonnas House

Helping wash the car

Chilling out

Very proud after swimming 100 lengths

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL YEAR

2010-07-09T10:17:00.001-07:00

Today was the end of a school year, I really cannot believe how the time has flown. The end of year assembly was apparently very boring with the highlight being asked to go on stage and collect his Grade 1 Clarinet Certificate from the head master.

The afternoon was spent with friends at Chessington World of Adventures. With the temperature reaching 30' we were definitely getting ready for Disney.

Here is the Kobra Ride - at new one this year and Lewis hadn't tried it yet.

As I had hurt my back I was able to take photos instead of riding today:

Lewis can be seen in the middle of the photo wearing a red t-shirt.

It went really fast according to Lewis:

OH Dear, the ride stopped half way through. They were stuck for about 10 minutes before climbing down a ladder to get off. Luckily they were given a pass to ride again once it was working properly. That time it was "AWESOME".

Then it was time for the Runaway Train:

FAMILY GET TOGETHER

2010-07-05T12:53:00.001-07:00

A big family get together recently marked Uncle Mark and Auntie Gills 50th wedding anniversary - quite some milestone in this day and age.

We all had a really lovely day and Tony was able to capture this shot of everyone for them to remember the day by:

Derby Day

2010-07-05T12:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago the annual Epsom Derby was held up at the racecourse. As has become tradition now we took a stroll up to the start to take and picnic and watch the horses set off.

For once the weather was sunny and picnic worthy. Sadly Tony forgot to put a memory card in the camera so the only photo recording the day is from the i-phone:

LEGOLAND

2010-07-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

During the half term holidays the weather began to warm up giving us all a chance for a family day to Lewis' favourite place - Legoland. I am pleased to say the weather still holds and at the moment we may even be seeing a real summer in the UK at long last!!! So I'm sure a few more Legoland visits will be happening.

Lewis' favourite ride - the Driving School, he takes his driving very seriously:

The winner:

How awesome are these, Buzz and Woody made from Lego:

SPONGEBOB LEWIS

2010-07-05T12:35:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago at school it was the end of half term party, with a 'funny' dressing up theme.

Lewis decided that he wanted to dress up as Spongebob Squarepants so he and Tony set to work over the weekend creating a costume. Here is their creation:

When Jasmine saw it she wanted to try it for size, leaving Lewis to do his

impression of Patrick Star - Spongebob's best friend:

GREAT NEWS

2010-07-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

I am soooooo behind on blog posts I almost don't know where to start, so I will begin with some great news.

As many of you know Lewis recently sat his Grade 1 Clarinet exam. I am now pleased to announce that he has passed with Merit - a fantastic achievement. Well done Lewis.

No photos of his certificate yet but here is one of Lewis practising recently:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JULIE & SMURFS!!

2010-05-09T12:24:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Julie's Birthday and so a trip to Nonna's was in order today to celebrate the occasion. Here are Lewis and Jasmine helping to blow out the candles:

Whilst at Nonnas it was also a time to help clear out the loft, plenty of stuff going back many, many, many years. For me the best find of the day was Tony's collection of Smurf's. Mum and Dad you may recall 30 years ago me asking for you to fill up with petrol at the National Service stations, because they were the ones giving away Smurfs. For some reason you didn't and so this has obviously left me scarred for life as I was soooo chuffed to find Tony's collection I have cleaned them up and claimed them for my own giving them pride of place on a shelf in the lounge. Happy Days.....

CRICKET SEASON

2010-04-24T12:21:00.001-07:00

Return to school for the summer term this week also saw the start of the cricket season. This was not a game that Lewis had really played before and although he enjoyed it, he decided he needed some practice. So with Daddy back at last from San Francisco and the sun shining what better way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

EASTER HOLIDAYS

2010-04-18T06:04:00.001-07:00

The last 2 1/2 weeks have just flown by. Easter Holidays are over and Lewis is back to school tomorrow. As usual I have not had a camera to hand (or even remembered the i-phone camera in my pocket) at all times, so here are just a few shots from the holiday activities:

An Easter Egg hunt with Jasmine:

A game of Monopoly at Grandma's house:

Even a trip to the supermarket is more fun when you

can scan the items yourself using your James Bond / Buzz Lightyear gun!!

Chilling out at home, still loving the Cars:

Making his own sandwich. I wish the chosen filling was

a little more healthy.... Cadburys Chocolate Spread:

Hanging around at the park:

Bowling. A firm favourite:

ROCK STAR DAY AT SCHOOL

2010-03-31T02:23:00.001-07:00

Last week it was RAG (Rise and Give) week at Lewis' school. There were many different fund raising activities taking place from cake sales to paying £1 for a fun swim in the school pool at lunchtime.

There was also a Rock Star Mufti Day (again another £1 - last week did seem to cost us a fortune). Here is how Lewis went to school - Elvis Presley style.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON IN LONDON

2010-03-24T02:02:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we made the most of the fact that none of us had anything planned (a rare thing these days) and decided to take a trip to London. Our first stop was Madame Tussauds. Tony and Lewis had never been, and I haven't visited for about 30 years so it had changed quite a lot!! Lewis enjoyed picking out some of his favourite characters:

His name sake Lewis - followed by the chance to drive an F1 simulator race

I never knew Shrek was quite so big

One of the few pop stars that Lewis actually recognised

After Madame Tussauds we boarded the Underground and went south to visit the London Aquarium. The last time we went here was when Lewis had broken his arm and he was keen to return.

This was Lewis favourite tank, what could he possibly be looking so scared about?

The shark tank - so big, it was very impressive, we could have all sat here for

hours just peacefully watching the sharks and other fish swim past.

8th BIRTHDAY PARTY

2010-01-30T11:45:00.001-08:00

Today was Lewis Birthday party, along with 22 other boys at Laserquest. Lots of fun was had by all. I even managed to sneak in an join in with the shooting, whilst Tony enjoyed his usual view from behind the lens.

Enjoying the wait with friends

Proving to be a great shot

Look at that concentration

The scoreboard from the first session. Mini-man heading the leaderboard AKA Lewis. This was also the 3rd highest score for the whole day so he was a happy birthday boy.

Time to blow out the candles

HAPPY 8th BIRTHDAY LEWIS

2010-01-29T13:27:00.001-08:00

Today was Lewis' 8th birthday. I can't believe that the last 8 years have gone so fast.

He woke up at 5.15am - and was promptly set back to bed, that was way too early even for a school day birthday. So an hour later he came back seeking presents, this time we agreed.

Then it was off to school for the day. He couldn't wait for his chance to wear the birthday hat and as today was a day for Spanish lesson he enjoyed hearing a spanish happy birthday song from his school friends.

After school it was home for family presents (thank you's to follow all round), and then off to Pizza Express for tea. This has become an annual birthday tradition.

Here is Lewis blowing out his candle in his ice-cream desert

and here is the birthday cake that I have made for his party tomorrow

More photos to follow when Lewis has his birthday party with 22 other friends - all boys. Arghhh ...... I think I need an early night tonight to prepare.

Snow Days

2010-01-07T10:56:00.001-08:00

Lewis could not believe his luck. One day back at school and then the snow came.

His school must be the only school in Surrey which was still 'open' but with only offering a limited program and finishing at 1.pm we decided that keeping him at home would not cause a problem. As usual Langley Vale, and especially Mannamead, are almost impossible to leave, but we did manage some serious snow fun.

Yesterday the Blake family were excited to be ready for snow fun

We met up with the Johns (Chris, Michael and Nicholas) and created a great snowman

Today I managed to get to work but Lewis and Tony set off for photography and sledging at Nonsuch Park.

Lewis proudly displaying his new sledge (Mummy saw it in Costco a few weeks ago and we had to have it - I knew it would come in handy eventually)

Off I go...

This is sooooo much fun

New Years Eve 2009

2010-01-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR

We spent a fun New Years Eve at Nina and Chris' house for dinner and a lot of fun. The theme for the evening was sitcoms and everyone had to dress as a character. Tony chose Del Boy Trotter and I was Patsy from Ab Fab.

Chris had also spent a long time preparing a sitcom quiz. I have clearly watched too much tv over the years as I came second (Tony came third) - actually I won as Nina eventually admitted to cheating!

The children were really well behaved but still managed to have lots of fun too! The final two fell asleep at around 11.30 (Lewis was of course one of them).

Bolly Darling??

From L-R: Margo (from The Good Life), Jeeves (Jeeves & Wooster), Renee and Michelle (Allo Allo), Phoebe (Friends), Frank Spencer, Del Boy and Patsy.

The Flight Home

2010-01-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

We flew home from Miami on Christmas Day Night. The airport was very quiet and so was the flight.

Tony had decided that as an extra Christmas present for Lewis and I he would use his airmiles to upgrade us to first class. A real treat as I had never sat this far forward before.

I could get used to this view

Lewis looking super comfy - even Pudding had his own seat

I'm not sure Lewis will want to travel any other way now - who can blame him when he can have his own comfy bed and sleep through moderate to severe turbulence for 6 hours!

Miami for Christmas

2010-01-02T08:26:00.001-08:00

With flights cancelled from New York on Sunday were lucky to have booked our flight to Miami for Monday morning when everything was starting to get back to normal after the heavy snow.

We arrived in a cooler than usual Miami on Monday lunchtime with temperatures struggling to reach 60'. That did not stop Lewis' desire to get into a swimming pool. He even started to say that his body was missing chlorinated water!! So as Tony and I sat and watched he bravely stepped into the water swam as much as he could and got out half an hour later complaining of a headache! I must say he really was brave - it took me until Wednesday for the water to have warmed up enough for me (Tony managed it on the Tuesday).

No swimming in the sea for us. Apart from the fact that it looked pretty cold and the current at times was strong the marine life was a little off putting. One morning Lewis decided to count the Portugese Man of War jellyfish that had been washed up on the shore. In a 1 mile stretch of beach he counted 500! The hotel pool was definitely the place to be.

Just one of many jellyfish washed up on the shore

We worked out that we were walking an average of 5 miles every day between our hotel and the main shops and restaurants. Lewis was not too keen but soon settled into the walk along the beach and boardwalk that ran from the back of our hotel. The few days were really relaxing, just what we all needed.

Lewis looking really happy to have reached the end of another long walk

One of the views during our walk

Christmas Day was fun. An overnight visit from Santa ensured that Lewis' day got off to the right start. Then a 1.5mile walk along the beach to our favourite breakfast restaurant, followed by a swim in the pool on the warmest day of the week. By now the temperatures were just hitting 80' - perfect.

Lewis, Sunglasses, a Nativity Scene and an outdoor Christmas Tree

VISIT TO NEW YORK

2010-01-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

After much time away from the computer the New Year brings me back to the blog. So although overdue the following Xmas and New Year posts follow in quick succession - I promise.

Our pre-Xmas trip away began in New York. We were all last there before Xmas 3 years ago and some previous memories for Lewis added to the excitement. We left a snowy London behind us and were so lucky as many flights the next day were delayed from Heathrow by 12 hours.

We arrived late on Friday night and went straight to our hotel. This was a great find on Expedia, as newly refurbished I was able to find a great discount at this fantastic boutique hotel within walking distance of all the New York sights. http://www.ink48.com/.

Check out those bath robes - Lewis thought the kids size was great!!

First stop on Saturday morning was a visit to Macy's to see Santa.

Then it was a walk up to Times Square to Toys R Us and a ride on the Ferris Wheel. Followed by a visit to the store that Lewis was most excited about - Nintendo World. Two floors of Nintendo DS and Wii games with opportunities to try out the new ones - he was in heaven.

We bumped into Spongebob whilst walking around the city!

My favourite part of New York at this time of year is the huge array of lights and Xmas shop window displays. The tree at the Rockerfeller center is amazing.

On Sunday morning we woke up to Blizzard 2009, but the New York did not come to standstill and we were able to continue with our plans. We were up at the top of the Empire State Building by 9.30am and I have never been so cold, the wind was bitter but the views were fantastic.

Up, Up and Away

2009-10-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

A few days late with this one but soooooo much fun.

Last weekend I had the opportunity to take to the skies and enjoy my birthday gift from some great friends - an Aerobatic Flight. It was a totally amazing experience and luckily the weather stayed just perfect. As the aerobatics were not allowed to take place over the airfield my small spectator group were left watching me disappear into the distance for 30 minutes.

The major high points were loops, barrel rolls, experiencing 4.5G and also experiencing a feeling of weightlessness as the pen from the dashboard floated about the cockpit as if we were in the space shuttle.

Before the flight checking out the plane

After the flight my cheeks ached so much from smiling and grinning like a cheshire cat for half an hour. To quote Lewis' favourite word of the moment 'Awesome'

FUN IN THE PARK

2009-09-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautifully sunny one and provided the perfect background for 'Fun in the Park' - an event as Lewis' school where the Form 1's started the afternoon of music singing their 'Harvest Samba'.

Lewis could just be seen in the distance in the front row on a vast stage in a huge school field. Having only been at the school 3 weeks they all did very well singing beautifully and not showing any signs of nerves for such a big occasion.

Singing was followed by lots of fun with friends, including inflatable slides, dodgem cars, climbing walls and craft activities.

Yes Lewis is here - in the middle in a white t-shirt, such a huge area I couldn't get any closer without looking like a pushy parent (thankfully my view was better than the cameras!)

Lewis' first attempt at the climbing wall, this was pretty tough but he made it well over half way

A firm favourite of the afternoon, we lost count how many times he tried this one

And we're off - what more can I say

The smile says it all...

First Day of School

2009-09-03T11:57:00.001-07:00

This morning was Lewis first day at this new school. He was very excited from the moment he came into my bedroom and for the first school morning in a long time needed no encouragement to get dressed into his new uniform.

The journey to school today only took 7 minutes (there was no traffic today so I am expecting it to be a little longer next week). I think it actually took longer to walk those huge bags to his classroom. Especially as the sports bag contained as much kit as he would take for a weeks holiday (rugby boots, 2 pairs of trainers, 2 pairs of shorts, 2 rugby shirts, 1 p.e. vest, swimming trunks and a towel - oh, and don't forget the goggles).

The class is a great size with only 16 children in total and Lewis was pleased to see that he had been sat at the front next to someone that he already knew. By this time he was showing signs of being a little nervous and so this helped ease the situation.

At the end of the school day he came running over with a huge hug for me and couldn't wait for me to see in his school bag his new treasures of his Homework Diary and Reading Record Book (they did have some funny monkey pictures on the front after all).

The finishing touches to his uniform

All ready to go - check out the size of that sports bag

Still excited on the car journey

Thanks for the offer mummy but I really can carry this myself

40th Party

2009-09-01T02:14:00.001-07:00

Last weekend to continue the 40th Celebrations we had a small gathering of friends at home. Lots of fun - way too much food. The freezer is now full of meals that will last us a long time (luckily we love curry so it will save on take-aways for a few months).

Opening a joint gift from everyone - a voucher for an Aerobatic Stunt flight (Tony hopes that after that even Disney may appear a little boring)

Lots of hugs and kisses of thanks all round

I may be 40 but so full of puff I can blow my candles out in one go

Then the evening sunk into Singstar with a few willing (and not so willing volunteers)

Below Gill and Mandy battle it out. Not sure who won but fully charged with alcohol I think Gill would have continued for hours.

Andy and Chris transform to MC Hammer, while Janet prepares for her performance with a glass of wine

Finally 40 and I Feel Fabulous

2009-08-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

I know that I am a little late with this one (as well as being behind with the blog posts this summer) but felt I couldn't let the biggest birthday so far pass without a mention. Party details and photos to follow.

I was lucky enough to be brought breakfast in bed before we boarded the train and headed off to London. We had a short look around the British museum after a pancake brunch and then off to my favourite part - the shopping.

We visited almost every store in Hatton Garden to find exactly what I wanted and I was not disappointed. The diamond necklace I chose is fabulous and I am looking for any excuse to wear it.

A few photos below including a fantastic present from Dad.

Lewis making the most of the freedom before we started the shopping expedition

Lewis and I in the distance at the British Museum

Blowing out my candle before desert at Smollenskys in the Strand

This is the great pastel drawing that dad sent me from Australia. It now has pride of place in our bedroom.

Lavender Fields Photography

2009-07-25T10:15:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful sunny evening (what a difference to recent days) and so we decided to go for a walk to the local lavender fields over in Banstead. My two favourite guys took their cameras and I have posted a few of the photos here:

Tony's photo of Lewis' photo of me

So many bees in the field all being snapped by Lewis, but his is one of the few that made the grade:

Lewis was extremely proud of this one - maybe a nature photographer in the making:

4th July - State Ball

2009-07-07T12:04:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was time for our School Summer Ball. Always good fun but this year exceeded expectations and was even more fun that usual.

As the Ball was being held on 4th July it was given a US theme. The quiz sheets on the table all had US questions to be answered and puzzles to be solved. I am pleased to announce that our table was triumphant in our victory and all thoroughly enjoyed sharing the large box of Thorntons chocolates as our prize (i-phones are jolly useful at times).

Purple did seem to be the chosen colour of the day:

Mr Blake decided not to be outdone on the sparkles:

The Gang (some starting to look a little worse for wear). I have to point out that Tony was the only one not drinking as he was driving!!

Kung Fu & A Day Trip to London

2009-07-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday began the same as any other with Lewis off to Kung Fu. This week he seemed to be having a lot more fun than usual - but being allowed to throw someone on the ground does look like fun:

Then we decided to go on a family day out to London to visit the O2 (New name for the Millenium Dome) and to view the Bodyworlds exhibition.

Typical of London Transport the Jubilee Underground Line was closed for the weekend and so we needed alternative transport. We chose the river and it was a great choice on such a beautifully sunny day.

Finally we got to our destination and what a happy little boy we had. The exhibition was fascinating. Lewis wrote in the guest book at the end: "Very interesting - Lewis age 7. I want to be a surgeon".

Weddings & Slides

2009-06-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we all went to the wedding of Richard Preston at Harvington Hall Nr. Kidderminster. http://www.harvingtonhall.com

The ceremony took place at a tiny village church in Dodford, and we made it by the skin of our teeth arriving just moments before the bride. Usual M25 traffic had held up the early part of our journey, so we seemed to fly the rest of the way.

The weather kept threatening to rain but luckily we remained dry, if not always warm! Harvington Hall was an extremely old and fascinating place, and after lunch Lewis took on the role of tour guide showing others guests the amazing nooks and crannies he had been discovered.

On Sunday we purchased a new addition to the garden toys. After selling the old slide and climbing frame on e-bay Lewis chose this huge inflatable slide which takes up most of the garden. The only advantage being it deflates at the end of the day leaving an empty garden again. He can't wait for some extra warm weather so he can have water in the pool at the bottom and make the slide even faster to shoot down!

Yes - it really is 3 metres high!!!!!

Classic Cars

2009-06-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

Today was, for a change, beautiful and sunny - perfect for an outdoor outing. Tony was photographing at a Classic Car Rally and Lewis and I enjoyed going along for the ride too. The setting was perfect for car enthusiasts as it was held at the Brooklands car museum. So whilst Tony was busy taking photos Lewis and I also managed to look around the museum at the other exhibits.

Enjoying the opportunity to sit in this MGB

One of the highlights of the afternoon was watching many of these old cars attempt the 1:4 Test Track Hill Climb.

This patriotic looking car was Lewis favourite:

The steep descent at the end of the afternoon:

Dr Blake I Presume???

2009-06-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

For some time now Lewis has been showing a very healthy interest in the workings of the human body. He recently watched two operations being performed on tv, one was a brain tumour being removed and the other was for heart bypass surgery!! He was totally fascinated by both of these, the only disappointment being that the hole made in the skull was too small to see much of the brain itself.

After watching he confirmed what we have suspected for some time, in that he would like to be a doctor or surgeon when he grows up but wondered how he could practise in the meantime.

Always parents to give him opportunities we suggested that the butcher may have an animal heart that he could investigate. This was met with whoops of joy just at the thought. When we got to the butchers he went one better and suggested that he could get the whole deal - oesophagus, lungs, heart and liver of a lamb.

Checking out the heart:

So today we went to see and Lewis was sooooo excited and absolutely loved the whole investigative experience. We brought home the heart and the oesophagus and lungs for disection. I can confirm that the kitchen table has been totally scrubbed since.

Lung Disection

Of course as Daddy had tried pigs heart whilst on a trip to Japan (apparently a delicacy over there) Lewis felt that he should try too so I had to cook a little for them to sample. I didn't partake but was told it was very tasty!

Mmmmmmm tastes like lamb Lewis loved it :

School Summer Concert

2009-06-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

This afternoon was Lewis' school summer concert. The theme was colours and each child had to go dressed in their own chosen colour - Lewis is on the far side in green.

There were lots of songs sung and poems read. Even a few jokes were told. Lewis' joke was:

'Q - What is bright orange and sounds like a parrot? A - A carrot".

Happy Birthday Grandma & A Long Swim

2009-06-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we went to visit mum for her birthday. Before we arrived Mike had been checking out his motorbike ready for his next trip and had left it out for Lewis to see.

Later that afternoon it was time to get back home for Lewis' swimming lesson. This was a very momentous occasion as he was challenged by his teacher to see how far he could swim. They were aiming for 400m but ended doubling expectations with a fantastic 800m swim - we have decided that 1/2 mile is not bad for a 7 year old. It did take a while for his feet to stop tingling when he got out of the pool but boy was he proud of himself.

Say Cheese:

Half Term Fun

2009-06-08T12:02:00.001-07:00

May Half Term Holidays came and went in a flash. I really must remember to start taking the camera out and about with us for more photos.

Lots of play dates, swimming, a newly discovered huge indoor play area (a must for a long rainy Wednesday), a visit from Grandma and a BBQ at friends to end the week. Wow, back to work and school for a rest.

Here is Chef Lewis preparing some very healthy, but yummy muffins - shame they didn't last too long:

Lewis' favourite pastime is still playing MarioKart Wii - even better when you can beat Grandma at a race:

The New Tank

2009-06-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

After a Blog drought, I have finally been more organised and decided it was high time I published a few more pics of life in the Blake household. A couple more blog posts to follow in quick succession.

Lewis has wanted a pet for a long time now and so we have agreed that a goldfish is probably the best place to start (and finish).

Here are photos of the tank being set up with plenty of loving care and attention:

Admiring his handiwork:

A closer look - fish to follow:

BACK FROM FLORIDA

2009-04-22T09:46:00.001-07:00

We had a fantastic time and have definitely come home for a rest. A really busy couple of weeks going to all the old favourite places and trying out a couple of new ones.

The highlight of the trip was a visit to Discovery Cove where we got up close with the Dolphins and even had a ride on one of them - amazing. Lewis is still talking about Dixie his favourite Dolphin.

Hitching a ride - this was the best part of the day

Lewis with his Cheesecake Factory bears 'Cheesy' and new addition 'Creamy"

Never too old to hug a Tigger

A visit to Disney is just not complete without a visit to Mickey himself

FUN WEEKEND

2009-03-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a lot of fun catching up with Nonna, Julie, Mark, Jasmine and Sarah. They wanted to use our Costco card so that was our first stop (after Lewis had finished Saturday morning Kung Fu of course).

Julie found the boxing gloves and decided that Tony would be the perfect sparring partner, however he was the one with the boxing gloves on.

Lewis and Jasmine found it all rather boring so took their Nintendo DS with them and each sat in a trolley to play against each other:

Just as well Lewis saved some energy for his swimming lesson as it was badge testing day. He did brilliantly and achieved his National Swim Award Level 7 and his 100metres:

After all that swimming it must be bed time:

Today was much quieter (at least for Lewis and I - Tony was off to London to shoot a wedding). So we went to the cinema to see the new Dreamworks film, Monsters Vs

Aliens. A great film for both of us. Here is Lewis with his favourite character from the film - Bob.

PARCELS FROM AMERICA

2009-03-25T10:57:00.001-07:00

How great to arrive home at the end of the day to see a parcel waiting for you on the doorstep.

Lewis was soooooo excited and was really pleased to see that much of the contents were for him. He especially liked the wind up chicken that laid bubble gum eggs (although not too keen on the bubble gum - so hours of fun to be had with a continual egg supply).

I have now been taught to play 'Go Fish' as that was the first game he wanted to play with the Easter Bunny shaped cards.

Huge thanks to Auntie Wendy, Uncle Brett and Oli - you beat me to it, your parcel yet to follow.

Mothers Day

2009-03-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

Today was Mothers Day and I have been thoroughly spoiled and had a fabulous day.

The day began with cards and presents (perfume, body lotion, clothes and a new i-pod shuffle!!!) I was then brought breakfast in bed, which included Lewis' special heart shaped toast.

It was a lovely sunny day and we all went off to collect Nonna Blake and bring her back to join us for lunch. Sadly Mum (Grandma) was not able to join us as I have one more week before I can be guaranteed Mumps free so mum is trying to ensure she doesn't catch it and pass it on to anyone (especially Nana).

Tony and Lewis decided that they were going to cook us lunch and made their own pasta - it was absolutely delicious.

Then whilst Tony cleaned up the mess in the kitchen Lewis, Nonna and I headed outside to tidy up the garden. Long overdue but very pleasant on such a beautiful afternoon.

Lewis has lots of fun making new friends with the worms - after all Nonnas digging he found so many that he was able to make a large worm pile!!

Rockets and DIY with Daddy

2009-03-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Now that Tony is on the mend it was great to get out and about. So after Kung Fu it was time to launch Tony's birthday present 'Rocket'. Lots of wet fun had by all and a great chance to wear Lewis out as he ran like a puppy dog to retrieve it. This thing launches very high and flies a long way - lots of open and empty space needed to enjoy:

Then it was time for a little DIY - constructing the flat pack bookshelves from IKEA - Lewis couldn't wait to get his hands on the hammer and join in:

After all that effort why keep it just for books?

Mumps!!!

2009-03-03T10:26:00.000-08:00

Tony has woken up this morning with Mumps!!!

We don't know where he caught it from but here is a photo of him doing a fantastic impression of a hamster:

Any similarities to this guy:

First Swimming Gala

2009-03-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

There are no pictures for this one I'm afraid - School Rules

Today Lewis swam in his first Swimming Gala. The school arranged for the whole of Year 2, (4 classes of approximately 19 children in each) to compete in Front Crawl, Backstroke and finally the strongest four from each class completed in a Relay.

It was extremely well organised with all children swimming against those of a similar ability to the distance of 1 length or 2 widths of the pool. Timed practices have been taking place for weeks to sort them all out.

Lewis won his first race - 1 length Front Crawl. Then he came 4th in his 1 length Backstroke race. Finally was the relay and Lewis was to swim first for his team. Mummy and Daddy stood watching more nervously than the children competing. He got off to a flying start and handed over about a quarter of a length in front of the others - WOW. His team went on to achieve 2nd place so a great result all round.

Needless to say he has now gone to bed a very happy chap.

FIRST TRY

2009-03-02T12:07:00.001-08:00

This is my first try at the Blake Family Blog and Tony has just gone out so I am flying solo here so hope it works.

Yesterday Tony and I were lucky enough to go to a special cast and crew screening of a new film - see picture below for the poster as the title freaked me out a little too. One of the lead actresses was someone that Tony shot a wedding for in Rome last year and and was kind enough to get us tickets.

It was absolutely hilarious, and for those 'Gavin and Stacey' fans amongst us was a total treat of Gavla and Smithy on a wierd adventure.

Meanwhile Lewis was having fun back at Nonnas and playing hide and seek - getting thoroughly frustrated when he couldn't find her. Not sure who was playing the bigger child in the game but much fun had by all.