Tag Archives: brands

Glow In The Dark Paintings

29 Nov

As mentioned I’m keen to get our falling down house in order and create little man a sensory room.

I’ve shared my ideas here on the blog before… Just check out this post.

As a result I was contacted by a lovely online company called Switch The Lights Off who create art that glows in the dark.They have a particular interest in autism and a percentage of each sold painting goes to the National Autistic Society.

They so kindly offered to send little man a glow in the dark painting and Alice and the toddler received a glowing door plaque each.

20121129-140807.jpg

All art is personalised and every piece is hand painted. Little man was sent a canvas painting of a funky punk sporting a fantastic Mohican. This image is aimed at teens and older children but there are a host of other images to chose from and I’m sure there is something to suit all ages and tastes.

20121129-135552.jpg

We choose for little mans image to be painted in gold so it looks great even when it isn’t glowing. When the lights are switched off the image of the punk and that of little mans name look amazing as it glows a Magnificent green.

20121129-135628.jpg

20121129-135728.jpg

Both the paintings and door signs are perfect for any child’s bedroom especially that of a sensory room. Your painting can be super charged with a UV Torch that literally has it glowing in seconds.

I love how each painting is personalised and hand painted. I admit I was sceptical at just how well these would glow but… WOW, I’m really impressed with the results.

What the brand told me (Diane & Steve from ‘Switch off the lights’ )…

“We are very passionate about these products and really want them to work.
The beauty of this artwork was that it was founded from an idea from Steve’s daughter, who wanted a painting that glowed in the dark whilst she was going to sleep.

We want to help mum’s & dad’s with their children in getting them to sleep. Most of us at one time or another have had nights where we are dropping asleep at the ends of the child’s bed, whilst little one is still wide awake.

We know it can be quite a big problem sometimes getting them to settle at night. So we hope these paintings and door plaques will benefit in some small way to help.”

These really are unique and special. Both younger and older children can enjoy a glowing piece of art work given the great selection of designs on offer.

Alice’s door plaque looks ultra trendy with her glowing name displayed on a pink plague, in a really groovy graffiti styled way! Its Sick ( or so she informs me)!

20121129-135833.jpg

Harley’s is blue and the writing style is really bold and glows fantastically.

20121129-140015.jpg

These would make a great Christmas presents for children who like that something a little bit different.

A great idea for any child’s sensory pad too… So, a fabulous gift idea for a child on the autism spectrum. Plus don’t forget, when you buy, ‘The National Autistic Society’ are given a contribution off the sales to help them to continue to do the fantastic and much needed work they carry out.

To check out more design visit the online store by clicking Here

Britmums Live The Highlights

26 Jun

OK, it’s fair to say that I have banged on about it a fair bit “Britmums Live” and why I was pretty dam excited to be attending.

Enough already I hear you scream.

But it’s done now! I attended and got high on the natural buzz of everything blogging, So… I guess it would be just plain rude of me if I didn’t tell you how it went!

Two entire days of workshops, inspiring talks, healthy debates, mingling, tea and a generous servings of cake (not forgetting the odd glass of wine and an awards party) is a lot to get through! So… As not to overload you, I’ll break this down into more manageable portions as to provide you with the highlights.

So here are my top 20… Enjoy!

Friday…

1) Arriving at 4.30 pm midway through a tea break. A cup of coffee and a slice of moist cake was just what this girl needed after the commute (god I loath the underground, though don’t tell the transport obsessed son I just said that)!

2) My first workshop of the weekend “The bloggers studio: The path to getting published, with bloggers who have done it” Having already started writing a book (see last post) this for me was need to know information. All speakers provided us listeners with some fantastic advice, especially “Emily Carlise” (More than just a mum) which meant that I left smiling.

3) I found that this year there was a much larger network of parent bloggers who’s main focus was on that of SEN, Autism, Aspergers and Disability. This meant that I finally got to meet some of the bloggers behind some of my favourite blogs. Tania from Special Needs Jungle has been a lady I’ve wanted to meet for some time. Finally getting to have a good old chin wag over a couple of glasses of wine was brilliant (Yes, we talked about everything from SEN provision to our boys unique and wonderful little ways).

4) The BIB Awards ceremony, Oh yes, did I forget to mention that an awards bash was merging into the agenda? OK, forget I did not but who can blame me, especially when this very blog was a finalist in the category Inspire! Ok, sadly I didn’t claim the title, but at least I lost out to the lovely talented “Mummy Whisper” Seriously it is impossible to hold any kind of blogger resentment, Lisa is just to bloody nice!

5) The fact that Special Needs Jungle did it for us SEN parents by bagging the Change Award! My fellow SEN blogger, activist, Aspergers Mum and now drinking buddy Tania was a little shocked by winning but still stepped on the stage and shared an important message with the 500+ bloggers, “Please do something to help looked after children in care as many of these children are not lucky to have dedicated parents” Please read and share her latest post.

6) The waiters at the BIBs party… I say no more!

20120626-141933.jpg

7) The after party drinks with some lovely bloggers.

Saturday…

8) Sarah Brown (wife to ex PM Gordon Brown and founder/president of Piggy Bank Kids) opening key note “Finding your Voice”

9) The Discussions Den, “Blogging for the greater good” A real inspiring discussion hosted by the lovely Kate (Kate on thin ice). Other speakers included Camila Batmanghelidjh (Kids Company) the inspiring Polly Gowers, (Give as you live) Claire from One and one of my favourite bloggers fellow finalist in both the Mads and the BIBs “Kylie Hodges” writer of the blog “Not even a bag of sugar” All gave some fantastic tips and advice on blogging for the greater good. This was by far one of my favourite discussions at Britmums Live.

10) The “Getting the most out of Google +” workshop as this meant that I now understand a little better on how to actually use it.

11) My one 2 one style consultancy with TK Maxx personal stylist “Claire” her suggestions surrounded me with doubt. However she knew her stuff and I left wanting to buy myself some peg trousers.

12) More Cake!

13) How great it was to never find myself stood awkwardly in a corner like a loner! Seriously, there was more than enough lovely bloggers to chat and mingle with.

14) Having a manicure at the Crocs stand! My nails looked lovely (keep an eye out for my lightweight crocs wellie review in August).

15) The display of fireworks right outside my hotel window.

20120626-144628.jpg

16) The talk by Cherry Healey… What a legend! A brilliant talk on how to combine social media, press and tv to help promote your blog and of course having the time to do so.

17) Acting like a bit of a tit in the Orlando photo booth.

20120626-145217.jpg

18) Chilling out at the Butlins stand with Laura (Tired mummy of two) it was lovely to catch up.

19) Getting to chat with some lovely bloggers and brands during the breaks including Romanian mum and Mum of three boys.

20) Lastly the amazing bloggers keynote. I cried and laughed out loud. I can’t recommend the following post enough!
Doing it all for Aleyna: Survivor
Down Side up: What to say when a baby is born with Down Syndrome
Dorky Mum: Twitter is like
Ministry of Mum: Seven days of special love

20120626-150059.jpg

Lastly I would like to thank the people at Orchard Toys for sponsoring my attendance. Of you haven’t checked them out then please do.

The ultimate Britmums Live Meme & Linky 2012

3 Mar


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…

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

8 Jan

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

I’m a mummy but I still have hopes and dreams.

29 Oct

 

I don’t normally participate in blog prompts, however, I had to write this post having been Inspired by the fabulous Britmums and there blogging prompt of the week.

  So the prompt? 

What are your hopes and dreams for the future

 Now, I read quite a few of the post, written by my fellow mummy bloggers and although they were all great post written by some excellent bloggers, I felt most had the same dream, for their children to be happy or successful! 

Now before I put my size 5 heels in it, of course I want the same thing for my own children, what mother wouldn’t? However, don’t you think our own mothers wanted the same for us? Therefore, don’t we owe it to them, to fulfil our own hope’s & dreams, or at least try?

 I’m not stating that it’s wrong to have hopes for our children, I have a string of them, the list is as long as my arm, I want them to be happy and healthy above all else. If my children are successful then that’s great, but the happiness & health is what matters to me most! However, I do hold dreams for myself too and I owe it to my own mother as well as my children to a least try to fulfil a few of them!

Yes, like many, my hopes and dreams have changed with age, but I still have some nonetheless. I hope that one day I will be able to complete a law degree, I hope to write a book, a book that will help and inspire other parents who like myself have a child on the autism spectrum. I hope to get my ideas out there in the big wide world, have my own brand maybe, one that takes off and becomes a raving success. I hope that my children look at what I achieve and feel somewhat inspired to live their own dreams, and do so for themselves amongst all others. 

And if all the above don’t happen? Well, at least I can say I tried and really that’s all that counts!

My children won’t need to be pop stars or actors, just good people who know what they want and set about making it happen. I look at where I am as a 29 year old woman and there is so much I wish I had already done. Yes, Life is busy and I’ve already ticked a few of the boxes by becoming a mother to three awesome children, but I like to think I’m more than just a mother and hope on day I’ll be able to prove that to the world. 

Life is full of amazing and inspirational people, you don’t have to be a film star, published author or spend your life doing things for a good cause to be an inspiration! The secret, I believe is, “motivation” you have to know what you want and chase it like there’s no tomorrow, If you don’t succeed then at least you know you tried and that’s what makes a mother proud.

Hopes and dreams are not handed to you on a platter, you work for them! I’d love to win the lottery and buy a beautiful house to leave my children when I’m all dead and buried, but it wouldn’t be half as satisfying as having earn that house, don’t you agree?

I have a whole bundle of hopes and dreams for myself and that of my children. I want more from life as it has so much more to offer. 

I am thankful for what I have, but there is no shame in wanting that bit more, if you don’t want for nothing then that’s great, but if you do, then why not chase it and make it happen. We are never to old for dreams, and who says dreams can’t become a reality? 

Well, I’m not ready to give up on trying for mine, regardless of being a parent, I want my children to look up to me, there is little shame in that!

If you want to reach for the stars, then reach!

It’s only you who can make it happen. 

It’s a pyjama day

14 Oct

I don’t know about you guys but I love it when my little ones and not so little ones have had their bath and are ready for bed in a pair of cosy pyjamas.

We will huggle (Yes, that is a made up word) and watch a DVD together.

When Indulging in a little twitter recently I replied to a tweet about testing a range of toddler PJ’s. The lovely Tracey, owner of Stitch, baby + kids an online Australian store, shipped me a total of six pyjamas, two girls and four boys in a range of different cute designs.

I decided that little Amy-Leigh, my cutie-pie of a niece who is just 10 weeks younger than my little Harley, would test the girls pyjamas while Harley of course would put the further four boys pairs to the test.

Harley, like little man (aka a boy with aspergers) is a tad fussy when it comes to clothing. He will get pretty stressed out if his clothing is baggy, flopping over his ankles or worse still his feet. Another of his pet hates is wet clothing, anything gets the slightest bit wet there coming off.

Tracey let me chose the six pyjamas myself via her online store which states…
“We’re always on sale”
She also offer’s free shipping for orders over $15 which is great for us in the UK and so easy done.
The site offers a range of baby and toddler pyjamas, all in ones, rompers and a range of tees.

Tracey a mother of two states that she has opened the store to offer her buyers the chance to buy brands which are quite hard to find online to order in Australia (Through she ships to a number of countries including the UK)
She doesn’t stock a massive range but is steadily adding to the store all the time.

All Pyjamas are currently on sale, priced at $12.00 each, a reduction from the $16.00 price they started at.

We had our delivery in under a week which is quite impressive given they travelled from the other side of the world.
Note: It was clear to see the items were brand new however non are tagged and even-though they are sold individually all come packaged together. This is fine, I guess its like buying a pack of six here in the UK

Here’s what we got.

Loin Pyjama’s


Rock Star Panda


Rocket Pyjamas

Porcupine Love Pyjamas

Dinosaur kids pyjamas

Love Bird

Both Harley & Amy-Leigh were pretty impressed with the designs. Harley loves pandas so the, ‘Rock-Star Panda’ went down a storm. Harley also roared an awful lot while wearing his loin set.

All pyjamas were two piece sets. Five long sleeves tops and full length bottoms and one short sleeve tee and shorts.
I ordered three pairs at a size 2 years, two pairs at an age 3 years and the remaining pair in a size 18-24ms. I figured Harley would be fine with the 2 years as at 22 months his tall and I could put the age 3 years away for a later date. However the trousers are a little tight on the leg of both Amy-Leigh’s and Harley’s pyjamas (the waist was fine) this is either the design (the long-john effect) or the sizing slightly differs here in the UK. So I guess Harley will be in his age three PJs sooner than I first thought.

What I found awesome about the PJs were the bottoms of the trousers are elasticised meaning they don’t go baggy around the ankles or flop over the child’s feet. This was perfect for little Harley just as he liked them.

Also I should mention that the pyjamas are branded as baby gap which was a pleasant surprise as I wasn’t expecting a well-known brand label to arrive.

I’ve only washed them once and they washed up fine on the first wash.

Visit the store and check them out
Stitch baby + kids
Don’t forget that these are priced at $12.00 Australian dollars which is currently around £7.79 at the moment.

Alice Kicks some butt!

6 Oct

Blog-Match the brilliant peeps that match bloggers with brands have paired us with the fantastic Tactic games.

 Tactic sent us two board games to review, Faqir and Dotto (which will follow in another post)

 So, what’s it normally like playing board games with two very competitive children, one who is rule band and throws an almighty strop when he loses?

A nightmare that’s what it is!

 Five minutes in and all hell broke loose. 

 Now, I should state If it was just me and the little man then his fine, he just can’t play alongside his sister unless his in control and things are going his way! Not easy to put this into practice when playing a board game.

 Later that evening Little man went out with his father and I took Alice and the youngest around my mothers house and decided to bring the game and ask my younger sister and her boyfriend to play the game with Alice. There was no point me even trying with my toddler about.

 Lucky my sisters boyfriend said he would give it a go and with much excitement Alice sat down to face her opponent.

 Inside the box

 On opening Faqir we found a board with lots of hole, 28 brightly coloured plastic cones, 24 faqir cards, 4 Faqir dressing rooms and a handy pouch to store cards and cones. 

 What each player requires

 Each player has a certain number of cards depending on how many are playing.

Each player has a dressing table in which they place one of their cards behind.

Lastly

Each player is given a set of cones, there are 4 different colours to choose from.

 Aim of the game!

 Players must place their first card behind they’re dressing table, leaving it only partially visible to their opponent.  Each card has a number of holes (like what you get if you hole punch paper) the holes make up a pattern. The players will take it in turns with the youngest going first (Yep it’s in the rules) each must make the same pattern on their card on the board. This is done by placing the supplied cones (aka nails, into the holes on the board) Once the pattern is complete and the players card can be placed on top of the nails avoiding injury and a nasty anti-tetanus jab 🙂 they move on to another card. Once all your cards have gone you have a winner.  

Piece of cake right!

No, not exactly it isn’t! You see, as mentioned above each players card is partially exposed to its opponent(s) resulting in part of the pattern being revealed. This may only be one or two holes but still it gives players a clue to their opponents movements allowing them to try and block you. 

 The contest

On the left we have Aaron, sister’s boyfriend aged 18 years

On the right we have Alice-Sara ten years his senior at just 8yrs

How is this even fair?

 Does Aaron have the ability to easily beat his younger opponent with his ability to think outside the box?

 No way, this is my daughter we are talking about!

Competitive should be her middle name.

 Jammy dodger pulled it off.

Whoop Whoop

That’s my girl

Alice scores it top marks ***** 5 star

Where Aaron gave it a lower ***  3 star… um I wonder why?

I later played this with little man and I think its brilliant for an older child with Aspergers as It improves non verbal reasoning skills and helps the child look beyond what he thinks he see. 

Well, Little man done well and I just bet him right at the end but it was close, very, very close!

Faqir by Tactic Games

Age 7+

2-4 players per game

Around 30 minute game time per round.

 Amazon currently stock this and I’ve checked and the good news is they have six in stock for £18.99 

Amazon

Visit the Tactic website for more information

http://www.tactic.net/

This ones for you Little man

3 Oct

 There was lip gloss, cleavage and killer heels. Fancy frocks, satin bags and the odd freshly pressed suit! Soho didn’t know what hit it when the mummy bloggers and one or two daddy bloggers, came to town!

 The occasion? Why, the Mad blog awards of course!

 The theme was “GLAM” and Glam it was! There was some serious hot dresses on display with shoes you longed to adopt and take home as your own.

 I spent much of Friday afternoon in the salon, where my long locks were chopped and replaced with a shorter but nicer restyle.

Then It was a mad dash to the beautiful Radisson  Edwardian Kenilworth hotel in London’s west end. It was here, I got ready for the long-awaited big night ahead. Jeans and a tee were swapped  for a floor sweeping, black satin grown, black stilettos and sparkly, shimmering makeup. With a generous spray of Jean Paul Gaultier & little black clutch in hand, I was all set!

 On arrival at the Talk Talk experience centre Soho, I was greeted by a photographer who took a couple of full length pictures before allowing me to scramble off reaching for a glass of white. It was clear on arrival that Sally and the sponsors had gone all out to create an amazing event for us bloggers.

 I met some awesome bloggers, one’s I had met before but overjoyed to meet again, others I knew from online and had wanted to meet for ages and some I was yet to discover. The atmosphere was electric, and as the wine bottles emptied the laughter grew stronger. With each award came a spectrum of reactions and emotions. There were tears, laughter, gasps & roars of applause.

 When the little gold envelope was opened and I heard the words “A boy with Aspergers” my  tummy became a flutter of butterflies and my eyes watered every so very slightly. Yes, stood there with my little glass award in one hand, a microphone in the other, all I could say was

“OMG I’VE WON”

which was followed by a muttered ,

“I don’t know what to say but thank you”

Yes, the word “Thank You” was repeated several times before I scooted off.

Louise (@bobbity666) left, Me & my lovely award centre, Jenny (@Edspire)

No, of course I hadn’t  prepared a speech, that meant I had considered myself a winner. I didn’t even want to think along that line, So with no speech I stood like a donut . There was so many things I wanted to say, they were buried in my head unable to flow out. Nonetheless I would like to think there’s a way to make up for my lack of spoken words by doing what I do best…. Sharing my thoughts and emotions through my writing!

 So, without further delay, here’s what I should have said on collection of my award for the Most inspiring blogger!

 Huge thank you to all that nominated and voted for me to win, those in cyberspace as well as my lovely family and friends You lot are truly amazing, please go about your day today knowing you made this mum and blogger smile a massive smile.

 Sally Whittle (@swhittle) I just can’t thank you enough! Not just for Friday night but the whole experience, it’s just been amazing for me! From the day I discovered I was nominated to the night I collected my winning award I’ve just had such a ball. Yourself with the help of Jen, Parentdish, Talk-Talk and all the other Mad sponsors, made me and so many others feel really special, thank you to you all for making this brilliant event possible.

The lovely Sally Whittle who made it all happen.

  Special thanks to Mothercare, the sponsor of my winning category, “Most Inspiring blogger”

 Sending a big thank you to TK Maxx, Helen (@HelenGunter) & Polly (@p_hibb) for the beautiful dress, shoes and accessories that were perfect for me and helped me to feel comfortable and confident on the night!

 Thanks to my fellow finalist, who helped create an amazing reading list, I’ve uncovered so many great blogs to read. An extra special thank you to the finalist in my category “Most Inspiring” who have all been so lovely to me, your all incredible  and I will continue to read you’re inspiring blogs.

Kylie (@kykaree) it was lovely to see you again, you looked ravishing.

 Massive Thank you to my personal sponsor OptiBac Probiotics, ( who have not only given me support and encouragement but introduced my family to their fantastic products that have been of great benefit to all, but exceptional for my son who has Asperger’s syndrome. lastly thank you OptiBac for covering my hotel expenses at the fabulous Radisson Edwardian hotel, avoiding a half cut merry mum, night busing it through London (don’t think the children would have appreciated waking to a half-drunken mum on the sofa) so thank you.

An added thank you to Soyraya who is part of the OptiBac team and is just the loveliest person you can ever wish to work with when working with a brand.

 Lastly ( Yes, I know! Bet you’re glad I was speechless on the night, anyone would thing I’d won an Oscar) nonetheless I have to thank my three beautiful Children, especially Little Man (aka A boy with aspergers) for giving me the inspiration to write and share our story, the highs and the heartbreaking lows that have brought us to where we are now (a much better place).

Little Man (aka A boy with Aspergers)

“This Little man, this one’s for you! Happy 11th Birthday!”

 As for the “Blogger of the year” I didn’t win this, So don’t panic, I’m not about to reel of any more speeches,  though I would like to congratulate Anna Ranson (@imaginationTree) who was crowned the Mad blogger of the year for her fabulous blog, “The Imagination Tree”

 Well, done

(No hard feelings, that is unless I see you walking the streets alone 🙂 Don’t panic, It’s just a joke)

 I was also super pleased for Lisa (@MummyWhisperer) and Ruth, (@geekmummy) not only where they dressed by TK Maxx meaning I got to meet them during the run up to the awards, they are also fellow winners.

Lisa (Mummy Whisper) Sally Whittle

Ruth (Geek Mummy) collecting her award.

Huge Congratulations girls.

  A highlight to this already wonderful evening was  meeting the lovely Karen (@allaboutheboys). Gosh, Karen had the most stunning shoes, she has taste that’s for sure! Also the lovely Jenny (better known on twitter as @edspire) a real gem with great dress sense. These are two ladies who are genuinely really lovely both on and off-line!

 There are many others I had the pleasure to chat with, far to many to name.

 The rest of the night went by in a haze of excitement and alcohol, after an eventful taxi ride back to the hotel (long story) and a quick change of clothes I headed to a local bar in Covent Garden with these awesome lot, @SuperAmazingMum who was live blogging  (We finally met 3rd time lucky), @michelletwinmum (who had the best eye makeup by far), @seasiderclare (really sweet and friendly),@alforalenyna (who made me laugh so much I almost passed urine) and last but not least @bobbity666 who with Jenny I spent most the evening with and would love to meet again.

Michelle (@michelletwinmum), Clare (@seasiderclare)  (@alforalenyna)

Michelle, Louise (bobbity666)

The very lovely Super amazing mum (Live blogger) we finally meet &  so worth the wait

We had a lush few bottles of wine that we all sat and drunk into the small hours of Saturday morning, before heading for some over priced but yummy fast food (in an alcohol intoxicated kind of way) before walking back to the hotel and parting.

 As I lay on my massive double bed with luxurious velvet throw I drifted of to sleep dreaming about the full English that would greet me in a few hours time, only that didn’t go to plan!

 Waking up with a maid looking over me at 11.35 am was so not the plan!

“Oh no you sleep to late, you must check out”

For a moment I stared at her

“Who the hell are you and where the f*** am I?”

Was what first thought that came to mind, before  it hit me! I suddenly found myself doing things in fast forward (Benny Hill style) jumping up throwing belongings into bags, cat licking instead of showering and getting out of there looking rough, slightly hung over and gutted about my breakie, yet excited about seeing the kids and giving a (Not so little Man) a Happy birthday kiss.

 So, there it is! I mingled, drank, scared a maid with my sticking up Barnet and panda eyes and WON myself a Mad blog 

Not bad for one night ha?

 To see the full list of winners click HERE

I’m A Guest Blogger At The Business Mums Unite

8 Aug

 This post isn’t about my children, or autism, “OK both are mentioned a tiny weeny bit! 

 Ok, so… I’m a mum who likes to get heard when it comes to autism, aspergers and special educational needs. I love blogging about the madness and sometime sheer randomness that is my life! Yes,… I’m a mum that blogs and although the term, “Mummy blogger” is something of a crap one… I love it all the same, blogging is therapy and I admit it, throwing my hands up in the air now… I love to write, something that used to resemble a pain in the butt. Then there is this extremely privileged role I’ve acquired… parenting these three amazing, beautiful children I have created (Ok, I didn’t create them all by myself, but with a little help from their daddy). But despite my love for my children, the task I embank on raising awareness for autism campaigns, while trying hard to contribute towards creating a recognisable change whether educational or otherwise, and of course my love of being amongst other great inspiring parent bloggers, I still need more! There is still so much left for me to do, I just require a push! Of course, there will always be things to challenge you within the areas just discussed but believe it or not, there are a number of other areas of interest I still want to try and pursue. Many parents of children with a disability no matter what it maybe, don’t want to talk about it when there is no need, they don’t want to build a career around it or expand on the knowledge learnt from the battles faced… I actually do, that hasn’t changed! However, as mentioned, I also want to put my hand at other things to. 

 There have been so many ideas, ambitions, “If you like” I often drift into a daze and think, “Yes, Of course I can do that, It will be a doodle” I’m not talking about anything in particular here! There have been many “Crazy ideas” this mum has acquired throughout the years, but this last year, there have been a few that just wont sit and rest at the back of my mind.

 “Shut up Claire” I’m aware I’m rambling here (something else I’m good at) and I’m just as much aware that I’m making no sense whatsoever! OK, the point…. I do actually have some…. Well, it’s centred around this invite I received… I’m very excited as I have been invited as a guest blogger to the launch of the very first Business Mums Unite Conference, which will be hosted at the Albert Hall Conference centre Nottingham UK on the 19th, October 2011. Are you now laughing? I know I’m not a business mum, “A mum, yes… Business mum, No…” but as mentioned I’m writing about the event so I’m going to be there! Now this is important so listen up mums! ” This is an event bringing mum’s in business together to socialise, gain inspiration, share and encourage one another, however the event also targets all them mum’s like me, the ones with the ideas floating around in their heads but never acted upon. Here you can attend work shops, talk to those who have taken the leap, gain inspiration, network, and get a real feel for the possibilities surrounding you. 

 Now I look a fibber, as many would have clearly established by now that, “That’s a mum with a burning ambition” Yes, there is a specific route I’ve considered taking and it’s not that I’m not motivated girls! I just don’t know how to take the steps. It’s hard to explain without splashing my ideas all over the blog for the world to see! Lets just say… i don’t have a clue! I’m a pretty sleek networker (compliment to self) but this requires more, and what with the desire to study for my degree, I’m starting to think that I somehow consider myself to be something of a, “Wonder Woman” That or I’m going to make time stand still! “No, I don’t think so either!” So… Looks like I’m heading for the right event and how about some company?

 So…. Here I am laying it out on the table, I want to build a successful career for that of myself and my family. I feel most privileged at the fact I’ve been considered good enough to report on the Ins and outs of the day both pre and post event. This for me is the opportunity to report and yes, take some notes for my own naughty gain… HA-HA-HA

 All mothers, especially you fellow blogging mums (yes, you know who you are)! Who fancies Nottingham on the 19th October? 

 Here’s a sneaky peek at what to expect and some info for all you potential brands that should know a good opportunity when they see it (need I say more)!

The Fabulous Event Founder is the lovely: Charlotte Pearson, Twitter id: @scandc

 (facebook & blog url can be found at the end of this post)

Event Sponsors: 

 HIPP Organic,  Trunki, MumpreneurUK

Conference

 Emma Wilsher: Official photographer for the event :  www.emmawilsher.co.uk

 Keynote speaker: Elaine Hanzak

 www.hanzak.com twitter: @elainehanzak 

 This inspirational mother & teacher wrote an inspiring book documenting her story about the extreme illness she suffered following the birth of her son. The book titled ‘Eyes without sparkle’ documents her journey through postnatal depression. She has since spoken at numerous events, appearing on national television 

And is now a ‘prima mother and baby magazine consultant.’ Now that’s pretty inspirational! 

 Speaker: Naomi Timperley 

www.babylovesdisco.co.uk and www.socialmediaboom.co.uk

twitter id for Baby Love Disco: @blduk twitter id for Naomi: @naomitimperley

  Naomi is fabulous, Come on, Baby Loves Disco is Ace and this business woman from Manchester happens to be the UK director. 

Naomi a survivor of the Dragons Den is now a very successful business woman in her own right, not only is she the director of the No1 day clubbing event for parents and their teeny boppers, but she also happens to be a very successful speaker, mentor, business adviser for SIFE at Salford University & a volunteer for Young Enterprise NW. If that just wasn’t enough already, she is also a social media trainer with Social media. YOU GO GIRL! 

Oops… How can I forget! Naomi is also a mother of two!

 I thought I didn’t have time for a business! There is no excuse is there!

 Confirmed workshops (more to be announced ) 

 Laura Morris: Learn the 3 R’s in customer service…  Twitter id: @2businessmum

 Debbie  O’Connor: Social Media for beginners… Twitter id: @motivatingmum

 Amanda Farren: Branding… Twitter id: @QwertyCowDesigns

 Starfish Accounting: Small business accounting… Twitter id: @StarfishACC

Exhibitors 

 These include:

Scentsy; Captain Tortue Group; Jacques Design Plus more…

Following Opportunities for Brands and Delegates

 Advertising: £30

Delegate places: Including lunch and goodie bag £65

 Trade stands: Including a delegate place and advertising package £150.00

 Plus a huge range of Sponsorship opportunities

Contact Charlotte, founder of the event for more information via @scandc or via the official website where you will also find all the latest info on this truly fabulous event!

Please visit the business mum unite official site by clicking HERE Facebook page can be accessed by clicking HERE & The official blog by clicking HERE

Cybermummy meet and greet

21 Jun

So, here’s my post as part of the CyberMummy 2011 meet and greet.

For all those that don’t yet know what Cybermummy is, then where have you been? Cybermummy is the one and only place for a mummy blogger to be seen at on Saturday the 25th June… Oh my gosh that’s this Saturday, can you tell I’m excited?

It’s a place for all parent bloggers including fathers, to join one another, improve their writing skills, meet with brands, gain blogging tips, participate in fabulous workshops or just mingle

So, as some may know I finally got my golden cybermummy ticket a few weeks back. Yes, a certain fairy godmother offered to send me to the ball, however luck wasn’t on our side as we were unable to get our hands on a ticket (due to the sell out) Then like magic I won a ticket from those lovely people at Lego Duplo via the Cybermummy website.

To make things that much better, I got myself a sponsor! The awesome site LondonTown.com. These lovely people will be putting me up in a hotel meaning I’m gonna get some much needed sleep, and although I will miss them three little angels of mine…. Sleep is really needed!  I’m just hoping Little man doesn’t have to any meltdowns in my absence.

 So, Here it goes…

Name: Claire Louise

Age: 29

From: London

I am a: Cybermummy virgin

Cybermummy sponsor: LondonTown.com

Blog Name: A boy with Asperger’s

About: Parenting three children, one with Aspergers

Blogging since: 2008

Hair colour: Blonde

Height: 5,7



What I will be wearing at Cybermummy: Unsure but likely it’s going to be something black

 Likes: Writing, reading, art, shopping for bags and shoes, raising awareness for autism, good food (only if I’m not cooking it) & lastly, shaking my butt to some tunes (Oh yer… I love to dance)

 Dislikes: bitchy school gate mothers, eggs, lairs  (In no particular order)

 Most excited about: Meeting fellow bloggers &  Mad blog finalist

 Most worried about: Being a Cybermummy loner (don’t all us CyberMummy virgins worry about this)?

 Twitter name: @Clairelouise82

Sponsors twitter: @LondonTown

 Facebook: you can find the link in my sidebar

 Facebook fan page: A boy with Aspergers

That’s about it! So to save me from becoming that CyberMummy Loner please come and say hello.

%d bloggers like this: