The Dream Idols

Warning this post is a little out the ordinary… Well for me anyway!

I feel that I work hard at being a mum, sometimes you just have to let go! That’s why I decided to have a night on the tiles last weekend.

A few days prior my email pinged and to be honest, at first I was a tad shocked when opening it.

A request from a PR, an invitation to an event!

The Dream Idols live tour sponsored by Boylebingo. I had to laugh, why these Dream Idols sounded like some strippers group… Oh… Hang on, they are!

Dream Idols would be appearing at Liquid a night club located in Windsor. My VIP invite was for myself + one and after a little consideration, myself and a friend decided to check it out… After all this mum had started to forget what the inside of a night club looked like.

The show wasn’t planed to kick off till 11 pm, so, at around 9 pm myself and friend set off for the hours drive from London to Windsor. Once there we were shown straight through and given a cocktail. Before we knew it we were in the ladies room, surrounded by pink balloons and several screaming women.

Up on the stage were five guys doing their thing. Now before you go on about exploitation, let me tell you, these guys seemed to be loving every second of the attention they were lapping up from their many fans.

Boylebingo are the official sponsor of the Dream Idols live tour. This meant that we even got to play at bit of bingo too! The prize, well use your imagination.

Apart from the quick game of bingo the majority of the show was made up off cheeky dance routines and even a little bit of singing from one of the lads.

There was uniforms and audience participation. Us ladies were encouraged to engage with the boys on twitter and Facebook and there was even one or two competitions to take part in.

The show lasts for a decent amount of time, maybe just under an hour or so, then following their performance the Dream Idols pose with audience members for photos (note, there is a fee of a fiver for your printed picture).

If you fancy organising a bit of a ladies night and want to check out the Dream Idols in action, it’s worth doing so now as who knows how soon the boys next live tour will be. From what I’ve heard, the Dream Idols are set to be very busy what with them having been chosen over all other UK troops to perform at a special screening of the new motion picture “Magic Mike.” Plus the lads have also been asked to do the rounds with Channing Tatum when he does his press tour in the UK. Busy boys!

The nice surprise is that the show cost peanuts to see… Just a fiver when booking online.The fact you can stay and do some dancing in the club till closing time makes this an added bonus (check prices for each individual show online as I’m unsure if these vary from venue to venue).

In my opinion the show was reasonably priced and would make an awesome but cheap girls night out, especially if planing a hen night.

The provisional tour dates are as follows (there will be lots more added):
FRIDAY 29 JUNE 2012
OCEANA. Cardiff
FRIDAY 6 JULY 2012
LAVA & IGNITE, Preston
SATURDAY 14 JULY 2012
LIQUID. Windsor
FRIDAY 20th JULY 2012
LIQUID, Oldham
SATURDAY 21 JULY. 2012
KOCO, Liverpool
SATURDAY 28 JULY 2012
LAVA & IGNITE, Oxford
FRIDAY 10 AUGUST 2012
OCEANA, Leeds
SUNDAY 26 AUGUST 2012
Ballare, Cambridge

Check out the video I made of the night… Go on you know you want to!

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post, I was not paid to write this review. All words are honest and that of my own.

Gearing up for Britmums Live 2012

Can you believe it, tomorrow is the big day… It’s Britmums Live and the BiB awards.

This week has gone by super fast and now I’m in a bit of a state trying to get myself ready (I’m not the most organised of bloggers). I realised yesterday that my cards haven’t arrived, so have been busy making my own only to realise I have no ink in my printer and no card to print on.

This means that early tomorrow morning following a trip to the Docters with my youngest, I’ll be doing a super mad dash to PC World before getting back home, printing my cards, cutting them out and finally setting off to my destination Travelodge on the city road where I’ve paid for early checkin. Lucky I’m only located in South London or I’d be a lot more nervious than I am now.

Talking of being disorganised, I still haven’t decided what I’m wearing. I did have one outfit in mind then suddenly remembered that this is a two day event so after preparing and making the kids dinner I’ll be dishing through the wardrobe for a couple of outfits ( sadly I’m having a fat day which never seems to help when trying on clothes)! I hear it’s going to rain so wellies and a rain mac sound much more appropriate.

With all this on the agenda, am I looking forward to tomorrow? Hell yes, very much so!

As some may know, I’m a finalist in the BiB awards for the most inspiring blog and the winners will be announced tomorrow night. There is some hot competition all being other great blogs I read so even if I don’t win I know I would have lost to a brilliant blogger worth losing to (if that makes sense). I’m just really thankful to have got this far.

I love how the BiBs will be held in conjunction with the Britmums Live conference and I just can’t wait to meet up with all my favourite bloggers, some I’ve met before and others i’m yet to engage with in the real world.

The schedule for this years event sounds awesome and I’m really looking forward to a number of the workshops and some of the speakers listed for this years event.

This isn’t my first big conference, I was lucky enough to win a ticket and obtain a sponsor for last years Cybermummy. Though despite having been blogging for a number of years, I knew very few parent bloggers and may have resembled something of a loner lol!

I have been lucky enough to meet many parent bloggers since then so hopefully this year won’t be the same. That’s why I think the Britmums Butterflies Is an awesome idea for any bloggers that feel like I did last year.

I’ve also bagged myself a lovely sponsor this year, Orchard Toys who have kindly covered my cost, so thank you guys.

Well, that’s enough from me, as you can see I have lots to organise, so I’ll best get on with it.

If your attend Britmums Live tomorrow then I will see you all there.

The ultimate Britmums Live Meme & Linky 2012

Oh.. Yes, it just has to be done! I know we have the “Meet and Greet”, but for those like myself who just need to know more, the “The ultimate Britmums Live Meme and Linky 2012” has got it covered!

I’m pretty stinking excited about this pending bloggers conference aimed a parent bloggers, and judging by the list of speakers and workshops I’m guessing you are too?

I can’t wait to see some of my bloggy friends again as-well as those I’m still dying to greet. It may seem a long way till June, but gathering how fast this year is already going it will be here before we know it!

This Meme is my way of squashing some more need to know info out of you soon to be Britmums Live attendees. I wanna know everything from why you’re going to what workshops you all fancy attending!

It’s also my way of getting you all to agree a massive Britmums live drink up on the Friday night… Come on how often are we childless women let loose in London town?

Meme Rules

Its Simple… I’ve written some questions which I’ve also answered!

Copy the nosey questions, and paste them within your own post, followed by your own answers …

Tag another 2-4 bloggers to do the same (alerting them to the meme) tip (it’s a good idea to make sure they are attending before tagging them)!

Once complete link your completed Meme to the Linky in this post (don’t forget to share rules with your tagged few, giving them this URL for the Linky). This way we can keep track of the answers and importantly who’s tagged.

Please link to, and state the creator as A boy with Aspergers.

We’re off!

Q: What’s your blog title/URL and how long have you been blogging?

A: A boy with Aspergers for the last 3.6 years

Also blog at Mummy of many talents for 3.0 months

Q: Will Britmums Live be your First blogging conference?

A: No I went to Cybermummy 2011

Q: Did you bag yourself a sponsor?

A: Yes, I’m being sponsored by the wonderful Orchard toys *Big Wave Hello*

Q: Are you attending both days?

A: Yes I need the break 🙂

Q: What are you most looking forward to about the conference?

A: probably the prospect of catching up with so many bloggers I love while at the one event. Also the Ruby Wax Keynote

Q: Are you wearing Branded Clothing ( you’re sponsors brand)?

A: I may well be, Orchard toys are considering a Tee (Ooo… I hope its my colour)!

Q: What is your planed style for this event?

A: Likely be, jeans, T and flats (let’s see how diet persists)!

Q: Are you hoping to be nominated for a BiB award?

A: I won’t lie of course it would be nice, though it’s not the be all and end all!

Q: if so what category?

A: The category for ‘Change’ would be nice!

Q: Will you be looking to network with Brands?

A: I love to talk with Brands and form new relationships so I’ll happily network with brands, though I’ll be networking with bloggers on the whole.

Q: What do u hope to walk away having gained from the conference?

A: New ideas, inspiration, contacts and new friendships

Q: Will you be dressing up in the toilets for the Friday night BiBs?

A: I may slip on some heals (though flats remain in oversized bag)!

Q: Are you speaking at the conference and if so when, where and how do you feel about doing so?

A: No, not officially, though this has never shut me up before 🙂

Q: Will you be joining in the early morning bloggercise on the Saturday?

A: Umm… that depends on how much I drink Friday night!

Q: What speakers are you most looking forward to listening to?

A: Ruby Wax, Cherry Healey, Sarah Brown, Kate Davis – Homes… just to name a few!

Q: What workshops will you be attending on the Friday (Day 1)

A: Still undecided between Getting published or The clever bloggers way to write about parenting.

Q: What Workshops being held on the Saturday (Day 2) have grabbed your attention?

A: 9.45-10.40 Advanced blogging photography

11.30-12.20 Discussions Den: Blogging for a greater good, 12.20-13.10 How to create an Ebook

14.40-3.00 either How to make money from your blog or Advanced WordPress, 15.00-15.50 Video blogging

Q: Are u booked into a hotel for the Friday night, if yes which one?

A: Yes, the Travelodge

Q: Will you be looking for after party drinks

A: There will be no need to ask twice (hit me up ladies)

Q: Are u worried about not knowing anyone or being confident and socialising on the day?

A: No, I feel I know quite a few bloggers this year as opposed to a small handful last year. I’m dead friendly, anyone and everyone is welcome to chat with me

Q: What’s are you most likely to be found doing why attending Britmums Live?

A: Talking far too much and over indulging in cake 🙂Please click HERE to nominate me for a BiB if desired.

Now, it’s your turn and I can’t wait to read them answers!

Tagging

(Note you are only required to tag 2-4 bloggers I have tagged a few more to get this Linky started!)

Michelle twinmum

Multiple Mummy

Alex from Doing It All for Alyna

The Boy and Me

Kate on Thin Ice and Groovy Mums

The Ana Mum Dairy

Those that Like the Linky and want to get involved, can join without the requirement of a tag. Please do follow the same rules though, not forgetting to link up.

Powered by Linky Tools

Click here to enter your link and view this Linky Tools list…

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Just another Britmums Live Meet and Greet

Yes, typical Claire Louise, I have been meaning to get my backside in gear and post this “Meet & Greet” for the best part of a few weeks!

Although I love blogging a little too much, this also highlights my struggle to get a round to all them little things, due to my sometimes bonkers existence as a mum (yes… kids can be demanding, especially those on the autism spectrum, as well as those under 3 with a host of questions starting with the word, “WHY”)!

Never mind, better late than never, a term I’m most fond off, I must admit!

Well, given I’m writing a Britmums Live “Meet and Greet” you have likely established already that, Yay… I’m going to Britmums Live 2012, and boy am I excited *stops typing and engages in a brief few seconds of childish behaviour by jumping up and down on a freshly made bed*

So, before I roll off them likes and dislikes which I’m pretty confident you don’t give a hoot about anyway, I should just thank my wonderful Britmums Live Sponsor, “Orchard Toys” for making my attendance possible 🙂 *join me in giving the sponsor a big hand please!*

Obviously I write the blog A boy with Aspergers (which I’m guessing you may have worked out, given you’re here now)! What you may not know, is, I also write the blog Mummy of many talents (my newest project, launched Jan 2012)! I have 3 beautiful children one who has Aspergers syndrome and special educational needs.

Here it goes, enjoy my meet and Greet!

This is me (right) with the lovely Lou from Bloggomy on my left.Twitter Handle: @clairelouise82

Height: 5,7

Hair Colour: Lightish Blonde (Normally with darker blonde roots)

Eye Colour: Blue (with Black bags)

Likes… Creating awareness for autism, education law, Blogging, Twitter, Pinterest, Britmums, arts and crafts, shoes (the more the better) a full makeup bag, new shiny things, vintage, cupcakes, money (again the more the better) being a mum, dancing, comping (recent hobby and loving it), winning (who doesn’t) Italy, Greece, pretty things, jewellery, pasta, calorie laden puddings (but not their effect on the hips, bum and tum) shopping, organising, stationary items (how sad) bootsales, eBay, my Facebook page, BBC3 Being human, Eastenders, horrors, fashion, Karen Milan, reading (true life only) Lee Evans, creating change, festivals, healthy debates… goodness me, I best stop there!

Dislikes… School gate mums, bitching, ignorance, snottiness, weight gain, David Cameron, British justice system, eggs, mummy blogger bashing, time wasters, getting old, OCD, discrimination, meltdowns, conflict, Reading fiction (with a few exceptions) bullying, abusive relationships, stealing (including online content) Voting comps on Facebook, wordpress no JavaScript rules, spam, poor losers, dirty old men, LEAs (nearly always), injustice, weakness, Only way is Essex, heartbreak, debt collectors, South park, hypocrites …

Yes, I guess I could go on, though better to have more likes than dislikes 🙂

Well, if after all that rambling you fancy tracking me down at Britmums Live this June 2012, then please do 🙂 I’ll be the one wandering around with a huge smile on my face, not knowing what to do with myself as a result of being anything other than a mummy for a whole 2 days!

Oh, and if you’re staying at the Travelodge on the Friday be sure to wave a hand and agree to come drinking with me *bad Claire Louise*

To join in with the Britmums Live 2012 Meet & Greet, or discover even more bloggers meeting and greeting, be sure to pop over and check out the linky host Stepford Wifey

No shameful begging but if you would like to nominate A boy with Aspergers for a BiB award, please consider the blog for the category “Change” Just click Here! Thank you.

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Cooking up a treat with celebrity chef Simon Rimmer & One Products

I love reading other people’s blogs and often find myself In awe at not only the bloggers talented writing skills but their domesticated flair

There are some fabulously creative bloggers out on the blogosphere, many of them showcasing their show stopping foodie creations stunningly presented in some flawless images. I’ve always been honest when stating, as much as I am able to cook, I’ve never been one to make stunningly presented dishes, ingenious creations or well followed & recreated recipes! Something normally happens, that or I just don’t have the time, therefore sticking to what I know best. As for baking, well I’m simply what some would describe as a cake from the packet kinda momma, though I actually love cakes & desserts and always promise myself that I’ll brush up on them creative baking skills!

I do however blog the topic of food every now and then! This is often for one of the following reasons, I’m reporting  a close encounter with the London Fire Brigade, writing about chocolate either the complete lack or over indulgence of the stuff, or I’m reviewing a yummy supermarket buy!

So, you can only imagine my surprise when I received an invitation to come and cook with celebrity chef, Simon Rimmer (BBC Something for the weekend)! Ok, had someone called in a prank, nominated me for my yummy imaginative creation of chicken nugget surprise, as that’s all time will permit these days! Maybe it was something like that “Can’t cook won’t cook” show!

Actually, it was none of the above, you see Simon Rimmer would be demonstrating a few of his mouth watering creations and then myself and a few other lovely bloggers would recreate them under Simon’s watchful eye! The idea of this foodie get together was not only for the benefit of gaining some cooking skills or learning a new recipe or two, but also to learn about a brand that in-till now, I sadly had no recognition of.

‘One Difference’ is a brand like no other, a brand that has been created to actually make a real difference to others!

Seriously, I’ve never known it possible, yet there is a brand that actually does all that it does to benefit others! Producing a range of products only to donate 100% of its sales profits to charitable causes! Sounds, a tad far fetched doesn’t it?

Let me elaborate, One Difference, brings us a range of everyday essential products, One Brand’ that are sold via major retailers across the UK and internationally, to fund humanitarian aid projects across rural communities in Africa.

We were lucky enough to meet the brands director, ‘Duncan Goose‘ an inspirational man who shared some information on the brand and what it stood for. Products include the launch of, the ‘One Clever Loaf’ two unique varieties of sliced bread, due to launch later in the year! Through the sale of One Clever Loaf within the UK, start-up bakeries in Africa are funded to generate income for families as well as providing food for the communities they serve.   

Another product is that of ‘One Good Egg’ produced by selected British Lion EU certificated organic farms across the UK. These are three range, organic eggs RRP £1.99 with 100% profit being used to fund community egg farming projects in Africa. Communities are provided with hens, equipment and even training in hen husbandry, in order to provide protein rich nutrition for families, and a sustainable source of income!

One Good Egg’s are sold nationwide and are available from Tesco, The Co-operative and Ocado

Other products consist of, One handwash, One water, One toilet tissue, One Porridge, One Water and One plasters.

Duncan is also raising awareness for the HIV crisis in sub-Saharan Africa and is therefore donating much needed funds for life saving HIV programmes in developing countries, through the sale of the brands ‘One Condoms‘ with 100% profit going into the programme. They even sell glow in the dark condoms (which I thought was worth sharing, what with it being Valentines night and all that) 🙂 

Maybe I was actually invited for my eagerness to raise awareness for worthy causes as opposed to my talented kitchen skills, cough…cough…

Whatever the reason, I was pleased to be a part of it, and whole heartily impressed by not only the quality of these products (we used the eggs and bread within our dishes) but also what these guys stood for and the amazing difference they are making to the life’s of others.

On arrival at Battersea London, Simon was just gearing up to get cooking, some fabulous tips were given as he demonstrated how to create 3 dishes with the use of One Products. These were dishes I’d never even considered making at home (well, until now)! I could see the benefits of the day unfolding and actually felt pretty inspired to throw on my apron and get going.

Simon demonstrated 3 stunning dishes before we teamed up with another blogger and  recreated one ourselves (at least this way I wouldn’t be solely to blame for any kitchen mishaps or dodgy food)! Actually, all went to plan, we recreated, Chorizo Scotch Eggs with a Pepper Chutney and despite the fact I hate eggs, preferring to munch on just the sausage meat, I think it came out splendid. 

Before this great event came to an end, it was lovely to be able to sit and eat the dishes we had created along with a pudding Simon had put together, plus the welcome addition of some crisp rose wine and a good chat with some lovely bloggers.

To finish off, One Difference presented us with a beautiful woven basket containing some lovely One Products! We also got to keep the apron (to my little man’s delight).

I really did enjoyed the day, meeting celebrity chef, Simon Rimmer, the inspirational One difference director, the lovely PR team representing the brand and of course the great mix of fellow bloggers attending on the day. The greatest part was, not only did I take home some new skills, a new found sense of creativity, but also the discovery of a new brand that do this amazing thing of changing peoples lives!

When now shopping for bread and eggs, it will be great having the knowledge that the money made from my purchase will help change a families life… How amazing is that!

Please pop back tomorrow when I’ll  share the recipes of what we made on the day! Check out the images below for a tasty treat of what’s to come.

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Orchard Toys Sponsors A Boy With Aspergers For BritMums Live 2012

Today I’m here to share some exciting news, A Boy with Aspergers has struck up a sponsorship with a fantastic brand, enabling me to attend the parent blogging conference of the year, BritMums Live 2012.

A few days after having post my initial request I was approached and offered a chance to team up with a brand that I feel really suits the blog.

So… who is it?

My sponsor for this years BritMums Live is the fabulous…

So… Why is the right sponsor for the blog?

Orchard Toys, are the leading manufacturer of educational puzzles, games and books for children between the ages of 18 months and 12 years. The brand which was founded in 1971 has a great reputation for its customer care and its toy production which aims to bring both fun & educational play to the lives of children everywhere! What’s more, Orchard Toys are interested in what interests all children, including those with special educational needs and it is therefore hoped that by sponsoring A boy with Aspergers we can help them find out!

Anyone who reads this blog will know I’m big on toys that promote educational play, there is nothing better than a toy that brings great enjoyment to a child’s day as it teaches them new and important skills along the way.
There are so many families with children on the autism spectrum, many with special educational needs, that visit this blog all looking for ideas and inspiration on what to buy a child with autism… as I’ve stated before, games and puzzles can be a great starting block, if the right products are chosen, such items can help not only improve a child’s academic performance, but social and life skills, such as independence skills, something that children with AS seem to acquire that bit later than the “typical” child. Orchard Toys have a great selection of toys that suit children of all needs and abilities and some could help improve some vital skills for the child on the autism spectrum.

I’m hoping that over time our feed back given while working with Orchard toys can be used in the most productive way. This brand creates new products from its own designs, then all products undergo extensive testing in homes, schools and nurseries across the UK! This is to make sure they are educational sound, aimed at the right age group and importantly fun to play with. I love how they are actively seeking out feedback from those with children who have additional needs to ensure their toys are fun for all.

When I spoke to the teams lovely head of PR, I really appreciated her genuine interest in my blog, children and of course Little man. At one point in the conversation, I stated how Little man has the problem, that he comes across as socially inappropriate when he tries to socialise with others! Lynda (head of PR) responded by stating that it shouldn’t be his problem, it’s the problem of society as they fail to understand him and they need to be better educated about autism. Right there and then I wondered if maybe she was the parent of a child like mine, the fact she wasn’t just blow me away even more, making me more keen to work with the brand! I only wish more people could be more like Lynda… Non judgemental with a genuine interest in those that are seen to be different.

I feel honoured, thrilled and fortunate that such a great brand with good values and ideas, have asked to be my sponsor and I look forward to working with them over the coming months.

As for BritMums Live… I just can’t wait 🙂 If you’re a parent, mummy blogger and your undecided if BritMums Live is right for you, I’d suggest checking out the site. There will be many awesome speakers on the day such as top bloggers, authors, photographers (even Cherry Healey, Ruby Wax and Sarah Brown form part of the awesome line up). There are workshops (plenty off them) aimed at both new and advanced bloggers. The two-day event will host an awards bash, provide time to mingle and get to know other bloggers (or maybe just meet up with one’s you know already) plus it’s your chance to meet with some great brands too.

To find out more about BritMums Live Click Here
If you want to check out my lovely new sponsor, which I highly recommend you do, just Click Here

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Do you fancy sponsoring an award winning blogger to attend BritMums Live 2012

Fancy sponsoring an award winning blog
to attend the parent blogging event of the year?

As an avid parenting blogger of 3 years, who is passionate about her blog, I like to attend the big name conferences in order to gain tips and inspiration on all aspects of blogging and the world of social media.

That’s why in June 2012 I hope to attend the biggest of them all “Britmums live”

This two-day conference is solely dedicated to the British parenting blogger & its audience and will attract some 500 attendees. Britmums live is run by the UK’s largest parent blogging network of more than 3,000 influential and engaged bloggers and is set to make a massive impression on the blogosphere.

What with some fantastic top name bloggers all set to attend and some high-profile speakers, such as Sarah brown and Ruby wax its the ideal time to connect with bloggers.

So… If you’re a brand looking for a way to get noticed, sponsoring an influential, well established blogger who knows how to network could be the way forward.

Having been sponsored to attend events such as Cybermummy 2011 (sponsor, Londontown.com) and the Mad blog awards 2011 (sponsor, OptiBac Probiotic’s) which I was chuffed to have won the Mad blog awards most inspiring blogger of 2011, I can promise that your brand would be very well represented.

If you are looking for a parent/mummy blogger who has a good reputation with some big name brands (Argos, Sainsbury’s & Micro scooter just to name a few) with the addition of an influential reach within both the parenting and special needs communities, then I just might be your blogger!

WHAT CAN I OFFER IN EXCHANGE FOR SPONSORSHIP?

• ▪ A professional blogger/brand relationship with all terms of the agreed sponsorship fulfilled within the agreed time scales.
• ▪ I will only acquire the one sponsorship meaning it will be only your brand/company I represent
• ▪ I can wear branded clothing with your brand/company logo (t-shirts, badges etc…) on the day of the conference
• ▪ Your brand will be mentioned in conjunction with all my post relating to the Britmums live 2012 event here on the blog. Post will then be blasted out to some 2,2oo twitter followers and over 5,000 Facebookers (as well as a number of other parenting and blogger networks)
• ▪ Tweets & RT about your brand and any promotions competition’s you may currently be running
• ▪ A full length detailed introductory post introducing you as my Brit Mum’s Live sponsor 2012
• ▪ I would be happy to review and share my opinions on any of your products here on the blog (happy to discuss any request for video reviews of the brands product)
• ▪ Would be happy to run any relevant competition’s for my sponsor here on the blog
• ▪ Brand Logo with attached link to your website featured in my blogs sidebar for the period of one year, with an additional mention in the brands we work with listing (remains on the blog indefinitely)
• Mentioned as my sponsor on my business cards which will be handed out by myself at the event
• An article or guest post on your blog/website (topics can be discussed prior to sponsorship agreement being made)
• Mentions and reviews on my sister blog which launched this month and already proving a success.

I am also open to discussion on any request you may wish to make as to form a sponsorship that is tailored to suit us both. 

WHAT WOULD I REQUIRE FROM YOU AND YOUR BRAND?

• ▪ Cost of conference ticket which currently stands at £49.99 + £2 booking fee, although this is an introductory price that may slightly rise dependent on how soon ticket is purchased before the event
• ▪ One nights hotel accommodation following the first day’s conference (remember this is a two-day event) No more than £150.00 (maybe less depends on prices at time of booking

I think that’s a pretty awesome deal and a great opportunity for some great exposure at a low-cost.

If your interested in becoming the sponsor of an award-winning blog, then don’t hesitate to contact me and I’ll be happy to send you my media kit containing all that need to know information such as states, reach, testimonials, Wikio/ebuzzing klout scores, blogging achievements and more.

Please feel free to email any questions you may have and I’ll be sure to answer them the best I can.

Email Claire Louise at: abwapage@yahoo.com or find me on twitter as @clairelouise82

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A great 2011 for A boy with Asperger’s

A boy with Asperger’s 2011

At the beginning of the year I wrote a two-part post covering all the stuff that had happened during 2010 (yes, seriously this took two post and most of it was nothing but bad happenings). So, looking back through 2011 and realising just what an amazing year’s blogging I’ve had, I just had to do it all again.

So here it is, the busiest year on the blog so far, A boy with Asperger’s 2011

January: Not the best month to be honest, we finally get that all important statement of special educational needs for Little man, only toilet paper would have been worth more. Nonetheless we fight to the depths of the earth and it’s amended later in the year and thankfully contains everything he needs thanks to those all important independent assessments & reports.

February: We finally get some good news, which I document in the post, “The end of a chapter” The mainstream school in-which Little man used to attend finally holds up their hands and we get that all important apology in writing, we therefore settle on the Disability discrimination case only weeks before the tribunal hearing. Another great high to February was the invite I received from Cadbury that saw me and a friend attend an excellent Adult only event (no not in that way) we actually tried to set world records doing normal household chores with a twist (making a bed, unravelling toilet rolls and more besides). This was also the month that I got to interview Colin an adult with Asperger’s who had a very interesting message for Mr Cameron.

March: This was a terrible month, the month that saw my eldest Little man (AKA, A boy with Aspergers) get punched in the stomach by a much older youth of eighteen, while playing at the park with a friend and his mother. Little man was just ten at the time and had said “The wrong thing” to a group of older kids, you can read the post “How could that hurt my little boy” for the full story. March was also the month I shared my concerns on the pending Green paper in the post “Aspirations or clever financial alterations”

April: I’m contacted by the lovely Anna Kennedy in regards to her ‘Autism and bullying’ campaign, as a result of this little man appears in an ITV news report which I wrote about in the post “Little man’s television debut” which was perfect timing, what with it being autism awareness month. I also highlight how appearing on the television went to his head a little resulting in him asking everyone and anyone “Do you know who I am”

May: It was this month I wrote one of my favourite post to date “I’m no Vicky Pallord” I also discover that I’m nominated for a Mad blog award shortlisted in two categories, “Most inspiring blog” & “Blogger of the year”

June: Brings with it a fresh start for the Little man when the local LEA crave in before yet another tribunal, agreeing his place at his independent special school for children with autism and aspergers. This was also a really exciting month in the world of blogging, I was featured in two local papers, making front page news in “The Southlondon press” with the Headline “Mum sets blogging standard” & I was also featured in the “Newshopper” both highlighting the news that I had become a finalist in the Mad blog awards 2011. I also got to attend my first ever Cybermummy (blogging conference) and with it the blog received it’s first ever sponsor Londontown.com who paid for me to stay in a beautiful hotel on the night of the conference.

Nonetheless, although the above is all fabulously exciting, June was also a very emotional & overwhelming month, what with Little man adapting to his new routine and little sleep, it resulted in me writing this very open and honest post “falling apart”

July: This was the month I started the Santa’s little helpers feature resulting in me working with some pretty spectacular brands, we were also invited to the multimedia screening of Mr Poppers penguins in London’s , Leicester Square. Alice-Sara brings her friend who are both  excited by the odd celeb spot. In the middle of the month me and the children attend the Pandemonium festival in Northampton to celebrate the release of kung-fo panda 2 as VIP guest of Cadbury. The children get to test the new mini games, Harley becomes obsessed by the panda himself and we eat lunch next to the ambassador of china (Yer, I was praying that Little man didn’t treat the guy and his family to a demonstration of a meltdown, “Asperger’s style”)! Myself and Harley my youngest also attended the Boots bump to Baby event in London’s beautiful Haymarket hotel where Harley took a shine to the lovely Rachel Stevens and the boots clothing range (from the pic below who would think his only 18 months here). July is also the month I treat readers to an up-date on the amazing progress Little man is making at his new school.

August: A busy yet crazy month as I celebrate the publishing of my three page article in the SEN publication (please check it out by clicking HERE if you haven’t already). Myself, youngest Harley, sister and her daughter get invited to the tots event of the year, “The lollibob” where we go VIP and the kids have a blast meeting the likes of Bob the builder, Peppa pig and Ben and Holly from the Little Kingdom.

August was also the month that saw chaos unfold in the devastating London riots. I organised a Lewisham riot cleanup on twitter with the use of the hash tag #lewishamriotclean and from then on everything went a little mad, what with being interviewed for the BBC breakfast show by Gabby in the back of a taxi on the way to Lewisham following a sleepless night due to the sounds of rioters looting the supermarket directly across the road. Then as myself and Little man (yes, he cleaned Lewisham too) stood in Lewisham with a dust pan and brush waiting for fellow locals who I’d rounded up with the help of social media to join us, I’m shocked to discover the BBC are there to greet us. Yes, they interviewed me and followed my progress throughout the day, I later cringed watching myself on the 6pm news, in a report that seemed to go on for ever. My use of the quote “Lewisham is cleaner than usual” following the councils own operation seem to be something of a hit and spread across the papers and internet like wide fire! The images of Little man clearing up outside JD Sports still melt my heart and make me mighty proud.

 

August saw us working with some great brands, Micro Scooter & Meccano to name just a few. Little man also has great fun testing sensory toys this month and I try to raise awareness for child mental health by opening up and writing “Just a Little girl”

September: This is a month that holds some great memories for me, not only did myself and some of the other Mad blog award finalist find ourselves invited to TKMaxx London’s flagship store to choose evening dresses and accessories for the for the Mad blog awards ceremony but I also went on to win ‘Most inspiring blog 2011’ at the awards itself, which was held at the fabulous Talk-Talk experience centre in London’s Soho. Not only did I win, get to meet a host of other fab bloggers but I also experienced a great working relationship with my mad blog awards sponsor ‘OptiBac Probiotics‘.

With all the above going on I really don’t know how I managed to squash in one of my most popular post on the blog to date, “How well do you really know your child’s teacher”

October: was a month that saw the blog working with some pretty big brands such as Sainsburys & Argos, I make two local papers again having been interviewed by the SouthLondon Press and the Newshopper on winning a Mad blog award! Little man takes over the blog, (well, kind of, he finally says how he feels in his first interview, for the blog) where he talks about his Asperger’s, discrimination, bullying, feeling different and acceptance, click Here to read.

November: I’m delighted to become a judge at the BBC Christmas ideal home show for the face of Argos competition which was an amazing experience. I’m invited to lunch by Sainsbury’s at the BBC NEC Winter food show where I also get to watch a live Master chef cook off, I have a great time and meet some awesome people at Liberty’s London when I attend a charity event and I also start working with the wonderful ‘John Crane’ and ‘When I was a kid’ check out the post ‘Joining Forces‘!

It was in November I wrote the post “Merlin’s Magical wand helping children benefit from the magic, well that is unless they have autism” which had 2,000 hits within a few hours and is the busiest post of 2011!

December: The last month of ‘Santa’s Little helpers’ I therefore launch the ‘Santa’s Little helpers, the big christmas countdown’ we feature loads of fantastic competitions with awesome prizes up for grabs. I also get invited onboard P&O ferries to take a trip from Dover to Calais alongside the lovely “Romanian mum where we shop till we drop, and to end such a fabulous year’s blogging, I’m lucky enough to be invited by the fabulous Tots100, to it’s big Christmas party at Butlin’s Bognor Regis where myself, friend and children get to stay in the beautiful Ocean hotel, though Little man finds the change a bit hard to bear.

Wow, there it is, what a year!

There’s been some massive ups and as you can expect one or two downs (what do you expect, this isn’t a fairy tale you know!) But you have to admit, it’s a massive improvement from 2010 that sadly along with 2009 saw much stress and heartache, which just proves, you never know what’s lurking around the corner!

I really do hope that ‘A boy with Asperger’s’ has provide readers with smiles, laughs, entertainment, inspiration, awareness and more!

Merry Christmas and a happy new year to all my amazing loyal readers
We love yer!

A Christmas party- Mummy blogger style

8

DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS

Well, it’s a whole week since the Tots100 Christmas party at Butlin’s (where does the time go)? So… I thought it was about time I shared with you all the positives of our family trip, my overall thoughts on the Butlin’s resort located in West Sussex’s Bognor Regis, plus fill you in on all the gossip from the Tots100 Christmas meal & afternoons festive activities.

 Some of you may have read my last post which mainly focused on my sons difficulties in his inability to adapt to the new surroundings, he was therefore unable to settle during the break and as a result he became quite challenging. It didn’t seem right, nor fair to write about my overall experience at Butlin’s or my thoughts and documentation on the Tots100 Christmas party! Basically that was a real negative post and to mix the two just wouldn’t have worked, nonetheless I had to write it, clear my head, move on and hopefully  learn from it! 

 On a lighter note, we were incredibly lucky to be given the chance to go to Butlin’s especially during such a festive period! It was the Christmas fantasy weekend and as a result there was a great deal going on. As the Tots100 party was being held at the Butlin’s resort, attendees were given an awesome deal on a weekend stay in one of its two lovely hotels, and what’s more the family could come along too (something I wouldn’t have otherwise been able to afford to do at this expensive time of year). 

 We got booked to stay at the Ocean hotel which has beautiful views over looking the sea front. Now I have been to the Bognor resort before but this was some years back and the first hotel was just in the process of being built. It had changed somewhat and seemed that bit classier (if you know what I mean). 

 I don’t know what I expected in terms of the hotel, what with it being part of the resort as I’ve only every stayed in the apartments on pervious visits. We didn’t arrive on the resort till gone 11pm Friday night, as we approached the entrance to the hotel, my somewhat whining tired children suddenly become wide eyed and excited. Harley absolutely loved the Snowmen that line the walkway into the hotel and spent most of the weekend saying, “Look Snowman” every time we passed them. 

 The Ocean was fabulous what with its Disco lifts and magical lighting… Yes, you may think it sounds a little tacky but it really wasn’t, it was far from it in fact! The Ocean really did have all the makings of a top hotel that catered for both Children and adults, what with it’s beautiful spa and restaurant, you could even hire games and DVDs from reception. Little man did love the lighting in the room, it was really calming and would actually be great in any sensory room. As you lay in the bath the lights above the bath would slowly change from one colour to the next, one minute you were bathing in a heavenly red tub, then the next you were soaking in a blue lagoon. Little man was so drawn by this feature that for once he was the first person in the tub (seriously I normally have to carry him and force him in the bath kicking and screaming, so this was a welcomed change). We also had the same mood lighting above the bed which looked extremely impressive. 

 There was loads to do, so much I only wished we had more time (well if the Little man wasn’t so challenging that is)! Sadly we didn’t get to go swimming and this did result in a few tears. Little man had in fact forgotten his trunks but a trip into town via a little train that ran along the sea front fixed that problem (the town is just a 10 minute walk from resort if you don’t fancy the little train) sadly by the time we arrived at the swimming baths known as ‘Splash Waterworld’ It was closing, I must admit I did expect it stay open a little later then it did. 

 There was still lots more to do and discover, Harley even enjoyed his second birthday on site with friends such as Barney and Baby Bop, Fireman Sam, Pingu and his all time favourite ‘Bob the builder’ Yes, it was a little tots idea of paradise. 

 The fact it was Christmas fantasy weekend made it all the more special! Children could meet Santa in his magical wonderland, get up close to real reindeers, have their pictures taken in an oversized snow globe and meet Bojorn the huge white mechanical Polar Bear. 

 There were shows throughout the day right through till the end of the evening. By day tiny tots could enjoy the puppet shows in the skyline and families could watch Panto together at centre stage. In the evening we enjoyed tribute acts such as Lady Gaga who was so good Little man couldn’t get over the fact it wasn’t actually her and all the children seemed to enjoy the Abba sing along and once it that was all over Little man and his sister had fun making the odd request to the DJ and getting her to wish their baby brother a very happy 2nd Birthday, which I thought was really sweet. If that was enough Centre Stage also has a pretty funky show shop where you can buy everything from bubble blasting guns, flashing necklaces, funky coloured wigs, fairy wings and glow bracelets (just checkout the photos below, as you can see my daughter was really feeling the dressing up vibe). 

 Saturday was the day of the Tots100 Christmas party, it was broken down into two sessions, which worked well for me because of the children. First you had a festive afternoon of mince pies, mulled wine and some fun festive activities and later in the evening it was drinks at a cocktail bar before heading of to Butlin’s newest restaurant Tuner’s a more finer dinning option. 

 The Christmas party was a bloggers only occasion which meant no Little one’s (Thank goodness, as I can’t imagine what my fellow bloggers would have made of the Little man’s mood). First it was planned that their father would accompany us to Butlins but he feel ill which meant I got to invite my very Lovely friend Donna to join us, who thankfully being such a close friend has experienced one or two of Little man’s worse meltdowns to date. Regardless, I was still worried that while gone they may somehow go to far maybe leave her hanging upside down from a Christmas tree or something! 

 Of course I was a tad late for the afternoon’s fun, Little man was practically hanging from my ankles begging me not to go and in no uncertain terms telling me how selfish I was for leaving, while Harley was so over tired he was throwing his own wobbler. Alice-Sara, my daughter however seemed quite relaxed in terms of she didn’t bat an eye lid as I left, just sat chilling in the kids den watching some children’s television show. Once there I was greeted by the lovely Sally Whittle writer of ‘Who’s the mummy‘ and the lovely lady behind the Mad blog awards, had planed the whole thing for us load of mummy bloggers. Sally is a woman who I owe a lot of thank you’s to, she really does some pretty special stuff and along with the Mad blog awards has now given me two great memories to grow old with. 

 Once inside I joined a team who had just started decorating a christmas tree, the challenge… to use your imagination and create a spectacularly decorated tree with the use of shop brought decorations alongside craft materials which would require us to think outside the box. Competing against four other teams we had just one hour and I’m pleased to say we won 🙂 even if the shoe blogger did pinch wrapped gifts from around another teams tree, to which Karen from all about the boys gave us all a good telling off for:)

 Before the evenings dinner it was back to the hotel for a few hours (in which I was pleased to discovered my friend was thankful still alive) before getting changed in to something a little more glam and heading back out again, while my friend took the children to see a show. 

 I first joined my fellow bloggers for one or two cocktails that I must add where scummy, then it was off to Tuners to eat. There were 36 of us in all, 35 mummy bloggers and one daddy blogger all taking up too long rows of tables, I got to sit with Lou from bloggomy who I got to meet for the first time at the Mad blog awards and it was lovely to catch up over a glass of white and a festive feast. 

 Tuners opened it’s doors in 2011 and is named after the famous chef Brain tuner who helped create the restaurant which is advertised as affordable fine dinning. The restaurant boast some top chefs such as Nigel Davis (formerly of the ivy) cooking its six course Christmas dinner. 

 I really did have an enjoyable evening though I really did feel a little sad at not being able to join some of the bloggers such as the lovely Romanian mum, who went on for drinks and dancing after the meal! Sadly with my children, I really did need to get back and save my friend from any meltdowns or sibling punch ups.

 All in all despite my stress and parenting dilemmas while at Butlin’s, I really am pleased I went and will definitely be going again…. Someday! 

Related articles

• Never Ever Again (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)
• Preparing my child with Aspergers for our family festive break (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)
• We’re planning a break away (aspergersinfo.wordpress.com)