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Happy April, I’m starting to fill my garden with flowers and little bits to boost my mood. The bank holidays are on their way, and I am dreaming about mini eggs and hot cross buns, I’m going to eat way too much this weekend, but I think I deserve it – haha.

The Easter Holidays are nearly over, and we are back to school and work very soon, give yourselves a pat on the back because we made it!

April has been eventful, my household has been plagued with Covid, Norovirus and Chicken Pox, it’s been draining to say the least, but we are over it just in time for some fun.

I know that we are all probably ‘activtied’ out but I thought I’d share a few things that were budget friendly to get us through the last couple of days.

My favourite one and the highlight of our week was a trip to Broadditch farm shop, they are doing an Easter trail and I heard about it from a local community page. I often visit Manor Farm Barn and I had absolutely no idea that there was a woodland area across the road, we just liked the duck pond!

The Easter trail map and clue sheet can be picked up from the barn next to the farm shop for £4 for each child, and I have to say it’s the best one we’ve been on. My daughter is very into her sounds and letters now so this was the first year she could do the clues without much help from me, that added to the experience. There is a small park and a picnic area there with a lovely wooden play area, it was nice to have a play before we started the trail. The hunt is set in a woodland, lots of flowers in bloom and it felt magical, along the way there were facts about Easter, bunnies as well as bonus vegetables and animals to find. The hunt took us a good hour so that was well worth £4 in my book!

The trail is happening until 24^th April, so you’ve got plenty of time to pop in.

Below are some other activities happening in the area.

Spring River

Our local pub Spring River is holding a children’s Easter breakfast, call to book a place. Each breakfast costs £5 and there are activities and fun to be had! Bookings are for Saturday 16^th and Sunday 17^th April.

Swanley Park

If you fancy venturing out a fit further down the A2, Swanley Park is offering an Easter egg hunt this Friday from 9am-5pm, there is a woodland trial and every child wins a prize, price per child is £5.00.

Bluewater

Bluewater have got a burrowing bunny trail up until 18^th April, there are 8 bunnies to find around the shopping centre and there is a rumour there is a chocolate treat at the end of the trail. This is a free activity to do with the kids and the trail map also offers cupcake making ideas.

While you are there, the Pop-up club shop is returning to Bluewater, it started on 9^th April but it’s here for a 6-week residency, the idea behind it is to showcase small creative independent brands, you may be able to pick up some summer essentials, unique bits for your holidays.

Whatever you get up to this Easter, enjoy yourselves and stay safe.

Katie x

18 March 2022

Queen’s Jubilee – Come and pick a tree!

Spring is here! It’s arrived, I found myself over the weekend wanting to whack the barbeque out and dig through my wardrobe for a pair of shorts, 10 degrees made us all so happy. Seeing a bit of sunshine really does lift your mood.

On Friday 18^th I attended the last tree picking event at Castle Hill, I was blown away by the amount of people who attended, I got there dead on 2.30pm thinking I’d be early – it looked like I was fashionably late. It was lovely to meet the EDC Staff and I of course picked up an Ebbsfleet tote bag. My previous tote bag was great for country park trips for drinks and snacks, and you can fit a ball in there – believe it or not.

I am not a gardener but I’m learning, I was slightly worried I wouldn’t know what to pick or even where to start. I really did want a fruit tree, but I was torn on my little ones picking up and eating unripe fruit and that filled me with dread. What made my decision easier was the tree/garden specialists that were on hand to answer any questions and give you advice on how to look after your plant – which was so handy. I picked up a Prunus Tree, which is currently standing in my garden looking extremely pretty, with the tree you got a bag of soil too which was thoughtful. I decided to walk down to the event, the BetterPoints app were offering a bonus 250 points and I had to snap it up but I didn’t think about how I would carry it back up the very big hill – haha!

I would personally like to thank the lovely Hannah Cowell from Clarion for coming to the rescue with her trusty wheelbarrow, like a hero she bought it up the hill for me and listened to how much I love my new tree! It was so refreshing talking to staff from developers who are so down to earth.

The event was so much more than just tree picking, there were workshops available, a nature painting session for children that used raw material such as twigs and leaves to create your very own garden, along with face painting – some of the designs were very cool.

For adults there was a free Macrame workshop, I’ve always had my eye on these, and I was gutted I was unable to come back to attend the workshop due to family commitments but it looked like a lot of fun.

Sweet Berry Bakery provided some gorgeous cupcakes and biscuits, I would like to say that I indulged but my 4-year-old whipped up my cupcake and I got the scraps. From a very fussy little lady she instantly asked for more and requested them again for half term (I’m going to have to learn how to make them). The scraps that I did manage to get were so delicious, Kadie kept in the theme of the fruit trees available and there was a homemade plum jam in the cupcake that was just so good. Sweet Berry Bakery is open for business as usual, so please check her out (especially with Mother’s Day coming up) shop locally!

Community spirit was in full force, and it made me so proud to live on this development what a lovely opportunity to have something in your garden or on your balcony to remember a historic event.

If you managed to pop down and get a tree/plant I hope you enjoy watching its growth if you missed out, don’t worry there is something else happening on the development! The new park….

if you haven’t got a clue what I’m on about, take a walk towards Castle Hill Drive and look through the railings, you can follow it down to the lake for a closer look. It looks like our parenting dreams have come true, pirate ships and fun slides, the word on the street is that this park will be ready in time for the Easter Holidays which will make it a lot easier!

To all the mums, nans, aunties, God mothers, parents and carers and role models – Happy Mother’s day, I hope the sun comes out for us.

Stay safe,

Katie x

10.02.22

February is finally here, and we can all breathe now! January was a very long month; I feel like I can officially say 2022 has started. Spring is coming, and although it’s cold the sun keeps peaking through just to let us know it’s on its way. Our house has been a Covid house for the last 10 days, I’ve watched Trolls World Tour 3 times a day, I’m thinking of making a mosaic out of the lateral flow tests we’ve all done as a family of 4! And I’m running on empties, children will eat anything when the snacks are low. I was hanging on the edge but this week I’ve managed to get back into our routine and I’m back walking! My BetterPoints app told me I did 10 miles in one week. I think it was being locked up for all that time made me go into overdrive – haha.

I’ve always loved February as a month, both my babies were due around Valentine, and I had cute plans (they both decided they didn’t love it as much as me and were both born in January).

February is a month of love; I was going to do a blog post about Valentine ideas and things you could get up to, but I wanted to take this opportunity to encourage a different kind of Valentine’s Day.

Valentine should be become more about loved ones, as well as the one you’re romantically in love with, whoever you love, it could be a friend, a family member or even somebody in your community who inspires you. Reach out and say you appreciate them and natter over a cuppa, a walk to catch up. For some, Valentine’s Day can be a gloomy day, one they don’t look forward to whatever their circumstances, so spread love and joy while holding on to your pennies. It doesn’t have to be massive bunches of roses either, our local co-ops stock some beautiful tulips and now daffodils as a great alternative.

Galentine is one of my favourite phrases, love your girls! Support and encourage each other over a chocolate bar or some postal brownies, raise a glass to sisterhood, me and my bestie have done it for years and we love it. If you are free visit Ebbsfleet Coffee Morning held at the Castle Hill Community Centre this Friday (please come at the new time, don’t fall into the trap of coming at the old time like I have been – it’s now 10am!) start the weekend off making a new friend.

This week is also Children’s Mental Health week. Children’s Mental Health week is run by the charity Place2Be and focuses on the importance of promoting children’s mental health and wellbeing.

Below is a link for a downloadable file of tips for parents and careers on supporting their children, I found the file useful.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/n9uow064v0ijgr7/CMHW_Growing%20Together_Parents&CarersTips.pdf?dl=0

We all love our children, and we want to encourage and inspire them to be the best version of themselves, but life is a hectic place, so we try our best (I always worry if my best is good enough, especially when I’ve run out of glue when mine want to craft everything in our recycling bin) but that’s ok! One of the tips in the download from Place2Be is understanding how important we are as a role model – children don’t need perfection remember!

Half term is just around the corner, for me personally I often dread it because I tend to overdo it, I want something planned for every day, in case being stuck indoors is boring. By day 3 I’m shattered and even the kids are calling for a duvet day. During our isolation when I was really done with Trolls, I asked my daughter what do you want to be when you are a big girl like mummy? She expressed an interest in space and becoming a ‘spaceman’, this is when I discovered the absolute delights of YouTube. YouTube in our house is blind bags and Cocomelon but I somehow managed to turn it into a space odyssey, NASA’s top 10 rocket lift offs and a kid’s explanation of going into space later and we had a career day on our hands. There are lots of resources on YouTube for half term (I did hear a rumour of snow), we watched a tour of an aquarium in America, I turned the lights off and it really did feel like we were part of it, we threw down a blanket and even ate lunch watching a shark enclosure, so give it a go! For free days out, don’t forget we have some lovely country parks not too far away, we love Cobham Woods, being up close and personal with a Highland Cow is such a treat.

Stay safe and I’ll see you in March

Katie x

18.1.2022

I’m not sure yet what kind of a year 2022 will be, but I feel optimistic about it. Hopefully by now you should be down to the very last of the left-over Christmas food, if it’s all gone in your house – congratulations. We’ve still got a tub of biscuits,crackers and the sweets nobody likes from the Quality Street.

I sometimes get overwhelmed at the start of a new year, the whole fresh start, new year, new me. I put a lot of pressure and expectations on myself and by mid-January, I’m worrying if I’m ever going to achieve those goals. I did make one resolution this year and that was to be kinder to myself and I’m really trying hard to stick with it. In this blog, I’m going to give you three tips on how to be kinder to yourself. Being kind to myself, is not something I had really thought about,but I kept hearing it, but if I’m honest I didn’t know what it entailed. It is really what it says on the tin, be a little kinder to your inner self and your body. Life is a busy place to be, we are all so caught up in things that sometimes we forget we need looking after too.

My first tip is 30-minute daily relaxation. My first thought when I started doing this was, I needed to do yoga or mediation how can I fully relax? Well for me it didn’t work out like that, I realised that I function better when I’m doing something, that’s my relaxation, it can come in all different forms for each person. For those of you that have read this blog before you will know, my favourite past time is walking, I love nothing more than walking around the development, I’ll go up hill, cut down sideroads and Norman Lane is my favourite path. Although I love walking, it isn’t always relaxing, I have recently discovered podcasts, in particular Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe, in the show they talk about what it’s really like to be a parent, the trials and tribulations and their aim is to make us all feel a bit better about ourselves. Listening to the podcast just completely switches off my mind and gives me something to giggle about, I’m not thinking about what job to do next because I’m distracted. I feel refreshed after my 30 minutes, and I must say more productive. There are lots of ways to relax, it doesn’t have to be exercise, you could read a novel, craft, or bake, whatever your relaxation is, try squeezing in 30 minutes a day and see if it makes a difference in your mood.

Tip 2, Organise your day

I am probably one of the most un-organised people, I really don’t want to be, I find it a struggle to juggle – I loved writing that line.

Everything gets done in my house eventually, eventually being the word. A trick I started a few weeks ago was to plan my days instead of just waking up and winging it – absolutely nothing wrong with that but for me it didn’t work. I write a list of a few jobs that need doing in the house, my goal is if I can get at least 2 things ticked off my list by the end of the day then I can reward myself. These jobs don’t have to be big, sometimes mine are wipe kitchen surfaces and sort through the post, I’ve decided not to be harsh on myself because being a mum of two you really do never know where the day is going to take you. Having the list and goals has been helpful, it may sound silly but it’s the little wins. It’s now considered old fashioned to write lists (I got a lovely organiser and post-it notes for Christmas – haha), but there are apps that can help you, I have used Any.do, which can be downloaded from your app store, you can pay a subscription for certain elements, butI use the free bit. The app allows you to add tasks and colour code them, it sends you reminders (because we are always looking at our phones so this was handy), you can link it with your existing calendar too. It’s not massive changes to you day, it’s just knowing what’s coming that helps.

Tip 3, Find the joy in food

I love food, but I am lazy, and I stick to my comforts, I like toast, whack a bit of toast in for breakfast and that’s done. For the last week I’ve started to appreciate mealtimes, I’ve given a few new recipes a go, I got an Airfyer for Christmas, that has completely turned my world upside down, it’s taken the pressure off me having to stand at the hob and twist my neck round to watch my cherubs, I can actually be with them, it’s like a George Foreman but better. I’ve given myself a push to try new things for breakfast, make lunch a little bit more exciting. If you don’t have the time or don’t want to cook different things, you could try when you do your food shop, pick a new sauce or seasoning to add to your existing meal. I found I felt like I was always busy, too busy to try something new, but enjoying mealtimes has given me a boost, a little achievement almost.

Be kind to yourselves and hang in there January is nearly over.

Katie x

I can officially say it! Merry Christmas

The festive season is here, and it does really feel like Christmas suddenly, we have had a full on two weeks of nativity plays, Christmas jumper day and the school Christmas fair. It is the last day of term on Friday and then we can sit back and relax, a tub of celebrations for breakfast leading up to the big day – why not!

This month, I have tried to cram in as many Christmas activities as a I can, we had a lovely time at Hever Castle last weekend for their Christmas light show and Pinocchio trial, what I loved about it was exploring the castle grounds, they had a beautiful Christmas tree made from lights sitting on the water, it made us feel very festive. Next week we are off to Kent Life to visit Father Christmas, I’m hoping I’m on the good list haha

This will be my last blog post of the year, I’ve had a great time being able to share my journey living on Castle Hill and sharing my life with you, thank you so much to everybody who reads my page and sticking with me, I hope I have kept everybody both informed and entertained. I’m not too sure where Omicron is going to take us in the next few months, so please stay safe and I’ll be here again in the New Year. For those of you who wish to have the Covid booster, our lovely chemist Delmergate by the community centre is offering the jab, I’m having mine done there tomorrow very quick and easy on my doorstep, I’m so glad not to be taking the car.

My last blog post for 2021 is to let you know all about the Christmas events that are happening in and around the area but first I must add this exciting news into my post to spread the word. It’s been a hot topic amongst residents for a while, the mystery of the food van on a Thursday! Home cooking on a Thursday suddenly became a thing again and that wasn’t fun, I am so happy to let you all know that Gully’s is back outside the Co-Op this Thursday 16^th! Enjoy, I know I will be.

Now on to Christmas, we have the much-anticipated Castle Hill Christmas market this weekend, you really don’t have to travel far for goodies. The market is free to attend and is being held on the Village green on Cherry Orchard Avenue, it is kicking off at 11am. There will be lots of small businesses from the development setting up stalls, a few I covered in my business blog post, so please go along, support them and sample of their work. I’ve seen a few cakes and cookies I want to get my hands on. There will be a talent show for under 16 years olds and there is still time to get involved.

On Sunday 19^th the Christmas market will have its second day so if you cannot make Saturday, you won’t miss out altogether! Then from 3pm, we can look forward to 4 mini popup carol concerts, they will be doing the rounds around the development starting off by the tennis courts. Wrap up warm and join them, good excuse to sing your heart out and children are welcome to dress up!

If you fancy heading out, pop along to Gravesend Borough Market where they are holding a Twilight Christmas Market this Friday 17^th December between 5.30-8.30PM, browse the locally sourced and made gifts, I love a pop-up market and something about it being in the evening makes it that bit more magical.

To finish off, Castle Hill is welcoming the big man himself, Father Christmas! He will be coming on Monday 20^th December at 1.30 outside the Community Centre, I must say the first year I moved to Castle Hill I took my daughter along and it was so much fun! Seeing Santa turn up on a vintage fire engine ringing the bell was special, we can’t wait to take our son! This is a free event set up by Dartford Council.

And finally, if you are after some family fun on the last few days leading up to the big day, the Orchard Theatre still has tickets for their panto, Jack, and the beanstalk. Tickets start at £16, and Christopher Biggins is taking centre stage.

I hope you get to experience at least one of the things on my list!

Happy Christmas and remember

‘The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear’ – Buddy the Elf.

 Katie x

18.10.21

It’s time to dig your warm coat out, winter is well and truly on the way. I have found the cold fresh mornings on Castle Hill very enjoyable, the moody skyline from the top of Whitecliffe Road is something special. October is here and there really isn’t long left of 2021.

The children are almost on half term, for some schools in the area half-term is already in full swing. I am a planner, I love to have lists of things to do during the holidays, I enjoy the freedom of being out and about with the kids. I have been busy this month scouting the local area to bring you a lovely little list of activities to enjoy this half term. I am a budget master so I have tried to include things that won’t break the bank but can still give you a couple of hours of happy smiling faces (or if you are my 10-month-old son who is teething, 1 minute of joy).

First up, Bluewater..

 The Lego Store – Bluewater

Bluewater can be a tricky place for kids, they either love it or hate it! So, if you need to pop down there this half term you can smooth things over by visiting the Lego store. Lego are offering a free trick or treat treasure hunt between 23^rd – 31^st October, I’ve heard there might be prizes! I have recently started to use the Arriva Click Bus service on our trips to Bluewater, it became the highlight of our summer holidays. The bus was surprisingly so quick and easy to use, no faff with parking and then finding where you parked and it’s all done on an app, my daughter loved tracking the bus and having it pull up literally outside our house was mind-blowing.

The Click Bus could be added on to your Bluewater adventure, journey prices start at £2.

Gruffalo Spotters Trail – Jeskyns Community Woodland

I took my two kids to Jeskyns last weekend, we had such a great time. I felt like it had been such a long time since we got down with nature! we put our wellies on and made a whole morning of it, our highlight was the Gruffalo trail. This half term Jeskyns has got a Gruffalo spotters trail, there is a cool app to download where the kids enjoy interactive elements. If you pop down the Café you can pick up an activity pack while includes instructions plus, a Gruffalo mask, pencils, and stickers. What’s lovely is it’s a free activity and depending on how little the legs you could stretch it out for a while.

https://www.forestryengland.uk/jeskyns-community-woodland/gruffalo-spotters-trail

Not too Scary Halloween Adventure – Cyclopark

I am a newbie to Cyclopark, I can’t believe I haven’t explored here before, I had so many recommendations but if I’m honest I didn’t think it would appeal to us – WRONG. Loved it!

This week we visited and spent a great couple of hours playing and riding scooters, my highlight came in the onsite café, a slice of Halloween cake, it was so delicious. From Monday 25^th October they are running ‘not too scary Halloween adventure’ which includes a maze, a spooky walk and real-life critters! If you or your child want to get up close and personal with frogs, lizards and an array of insects then give this a go. The price is fab to, £3 per child and adults are free!

https://www.cyclopark.com/play/october-half-term-activities/

 

Spooky Halloween Creatures – Shorne Country Park

Keeping in with the theme of animals, Shorne Country Park have a Halloween meet and greet experience with reptiles and other animals in their education centre this half term. Unfortunately, the event is only running Monday 25^th and Tuesday 26^th October, tickets are selling fast but there are some slots left, tickets are £8 per child.

https://m.facebook.com/events/shorne-woods-country-park/spooky-halloween-creatures/440859893923731/

Halloween Haunting in the Hall – Istead Rise Memorial

If you are looking to do something for Halloween on the 31^st look no further, The Istead Park Project presents Haunting at the Hall, a Halloween fundraising event promising crafts, games, and activities for all the family with fancy dress encouraged. You will be able to pick up some spooky cakes and bakes, hot drinks available. General admission is £3 and under 2’s go free, head down anytime after 2pm I might see you there!

https://allevents.in/istead%20rise/istead-park-project-halloween-haunting-in-the-hall/10000179211926697

I hope you enjoy the half term whatever you may do, and remember there are parks here on the development and walks to be enjoyed if you don’t fancy any of what I’ve suggested.

As the nights draw in Stay safe!

Katie

15.12.21

I can officially say it! Merry Christmas

The festive season is here, and it does really feel like Christmas suddenly, we have had a full on two weeks of nativity plays, Christmas jumper day and the school Christmas fair. It is the last day of term on Friday and then we can sit back and relax, a tub of celebrations for breakfast leading up to the big day – why not!

This month, I have tried to cram in as many Christmas activities as a I can, we had a lovely time at Hever Castle last weekend for their Christmas light show and Pinocchio trial, what I loved about it was exploring the castle grounds, they had a beautiful Christmas tree made from lights sitting on the water, it made us feel very festive. Next week we are off to Kent Life to visit Father Christmas, I’m hoping I’m on the good list haha

This will be my last blog post of the year, I’ve had a great time being able to share my journey living on Castle Hill and sharing my life with you, thank you so much to everybody who reads my page and sticking with me, I hope I have kept everybody both informed and entertained. I’m not too sure where Omicron is going to take us in the next few months, so please stay safe and I’ll be here again in the New Year. For those of you who wish to have the Covid booster, our lovely chemist Delmergate by the community centre is offering the jab, I’m having mine done there tomorrow very quick and easy on my doorstep, I’m so glad not to be taking the car.

My last blog post for 2021 is to let you know all about the Christmas events that are happening in and around the area but first I must add this exciting news into my post to spread the word. It’s been a hot topic amongst residents for a while, the mystery of the food van on a Thursday! Home cooking on a Thursday suddenly became a thing again and that wasn’t fun, I am so happy to let you all know that Gully’s is back outside the Co-Op this Thursday 16^th! Enjoy, I know I will be.

Now on to Christmas, we have the much-anticipated Castle Hill Christmas market this weekend, you really don’t have to travel far for goodies. The market is free to attend and is being held on the Village green on Cherry Orchard Avenue, it is kicking off at 11am. There will be lots of small businesses from the development setting up stalls, a few I covered in my business blog post, so please go along, support them and sample of their work. I’ve seen a few cakes and cookies I want to get my hands on. There will be a talent show for under 16 years olds and there is still time to get involved.

On Sunday 19^th the Christmas market will have its second day so if you cannot make Saturday, you won’t miss out altogether! Then from 3pm, we can look forward to 4 mini popup carol concerts, they will be doing the rounds around the development starting off by the tennis courts. Wrap up warm and join them, good excuse to sing your heart out and children are welcome to dress up!

If you fancy heading out, pop along to Gravesend Borough Market where they are holding a Twilight Christmas Market this Friday 17^th December between 5.30-8.30PM, browse the locally sourced and made gifts, I love a pop-up market and something about it being in the evening makes it that bit more magical.

To finish off, Castle Hill is welcoming the big man himself, Father Christmas! He will be coming on Monday 20^th December at 1.30 outside the Community Centre, I must say the first year I moved to Castle Hill I took my daughter along and it was so much fun! Seeing Santa turn up on a vintage fire engine ringing the bell was special, we can’t wait to take our son! This is a free event set up by Dartford Council.

And finally, if you are after some family fun on the last few days leading up to the big day, the Orchard Theatre still has tickets for their panto, Jack, and the beanstalk. Tickets start at £16, and Christopher Biggins is taking centre stage.

I hope you get to experience at least one of the things on my list!

Happy Christmas and remember

‘The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear’ – Buddy the Elf.

 Katie x

18.10.21

It’s time to dig your warm coat out, winter is well and truly on the way. I have found the cold fresh mornings on Castle Hill very enjoyable, the moody skyline from the top of Whitecliffe Road is something special. October is here and there really isn’t long left of 2021.

The children are almost on half term, for some schools in the area half-term is already in full swing. I am a planner, I love to have lists of things to do during the holidays, I enjoy the freedom of being out and about with the kids. I have been busy this month scouting the local area to bring you a lovely little list of activities to enjoy this half term. I am a budget master so I have tried to include things that won’t break the bank but can still give you a couple of hours of happy smiling faces (or if you are my 10-month-old son who is teething, 1 minute of joy).

First up, Bluewater..

 The Lego Store – Bluewater

Bluewater can be a tricky place for kids, they either love it or hate it! So, if you need to pop down there this half term you can smooth things over by visiting the Lego store. Lego are offering a free trick or treat treasure hunt between 23^rd – 31^st October, I’ve heard there might be prizes! I have recently started to use the Arriva Click Bus service on our trips to Bluewater, it became the highlight of our summer holidays. The bus was surprisingly so quick and easy to use, no faff with parking and then finding where you parked and it’s all done on an app, my daughter loved tracking the bus and having it pull up literally outside our house was mind-blowing.

The Click Bus could be added on to your Bluewater adventure, journey prices start at £2.

Gruffalo Spotters Trail – Jeskyns Community Woodland

I took my two kids to Jeskyns last weekend, we had such a great time. I felt like it had been such a long time since we got down with nature! we put our wellies on and made a whole morning of it, our highlight was the Gruffalo trail. This half term Jeskyns has got a Gruffalo spotters trail, there is a cool app to download where the kids enjoy interactive elements. If you pop down the Café you can pick up an activity pack while includes instructions plus, a Gruffalo mask, pencils, and stickers. What’s lovely is it’s a free activity and depending on how little the legs you could stretch it out for a while.

https://www.forestryengland.uk/jeskyns-community-woodland/gruffalo-spotters-trail

Not too Scary Halloween Adventure – Cyclopark

I am a newbie to Cyclopark, I can’t believe I haven’t explored here before, I had so many recommendations but if I’m honest I didn’t think it would appeal to us – WRONG. Loved it!

This week we visited and spent a great couple of hours playing and riding scooters, my highlight came in the onsite café, a slice of Halloween cake, it was so delicious. From Monday 25^th October they are running ‘not too scary Halloween adventure’ which includes a maze, a spooky walk and real-life critters! If you or your child want to get up close and personal with frogs, lizards and an array of insects then give this a go. The price is fab to, £3 per child and adults are free!

https://www.cyclopark.com/play/october-half-term-activities/

 

Spooky Halloween Creatures – Shorne Country Park

Keeping in with the theme of animals, Shorne Country Park have a Halloween meet and greet experience with reptiles and other animals in their education centre this half term. Unfortunately, the event is only running Monday 25^th and Tuesday 26^th October, tickets are selling fast but there are some slots left, tickets are £8 per child.

https://m.facebook.com/events/shorne-woods-country-park/spooky-halloween-creatures/440859893923731/

Halloween Haunting in the Hall – Istead Rise Memorial

If you are looking to do something for Halloween on the 31^st look no further, The Istead Park Project presents Haunting at the Hall, a Halloween fundraising event promising crafts, games, and activities for all the family with fancy dress encouraged. You will be able to pick up some spooky cakes and bakes, hot drinks available. General admission is £3 and under 2’s go free, head down anytime after 2pm I might see you there!

https://allevents.in/istead%20rise/istead-park-project-halloween-haunting-in-the-hall/10000179211926697

I hope you enjoy the half term whatever you may do, and remember there are parks here on the development and walks to be enjoyed if you don’t fancy any of what I’ve suggested.

As the nights draw in Stay safe!

Katie

6.09.21

We are in September; how did that happen?! This summer feels as if it has flown by.

As you have probably worked out by now from my previous posts, I love a bit of community spirit – I’m really digging it. A few weeks ago, I made it my mission to reach out to local businesses here on the development and unearth some unique small businesses that have been formed since their owners have moved to Castle Hill. I was really surprised with response I got, there were so many and unfortunately, I can’t mention them all (but that is not because I don’t want to, my word count limits me). I wanted a real mix to showcase what is right here on our doorstep.

As I writer/blogger, I naturally love the virtual world! so to start off my hidden gems, I want to bring your attention to Time Matters.

 Time Matters

Michelle Payne started Time Matters PA Services almost a year ago now, it was the perfect opportunity to work and be there for her children, to Michelle being present is important (shout out to all the working parents), she provides a service that offers herself as a virtual assistant, somebody who supports small businesses with their day to day, time consuming but necessary admin (I am sold). Michelle covers anything ranging from inbox management to social media scheduling.

I think before lockdown the job of a VA was extremely underrated and partly misunderstood, fast forward to a new world of working from home and most things moving online, a VA is golden.

After spending time with Michelle, she is probably the most organised and professional person I’ve ever met, and I wish she did life management (like how to cope with meal planning for a fussy toddler) – I’d use her in a heartbeat. Michelle is the networking queen and feels that a network event for small businesses at Castle Hill is something we need, and I agree. Imagine the community collaborations.

If your business needs streamlining or you need help moving forward, you know where to go!

RSA Discovery

I love meeting passionate people! Rupa is one of them. She is the owner of RSA Discovery, a science education business that provides science tutoring for an age range of 6-19 years old. The service also offers educational consultancy with Rupa producing educational activities and science workshops to spark curiosity (I love that!). Rupa started RSA from her love and genuine passion for science, she wants to make the subject as creative and fun as possible. Rupa embraces the community spirit on the development, she describes it as vibrant and supportive, especially if you have young children.

Lockdown hit education hard, but recommendations on the Castle Hill Facebook page have helped move RSA Discovery forward with over a third of her business coming from the development. Making connections with residents has led to work serving the local community, not just Castle Hill. Being part of a community has also helped Rupa understand what help is needed and the pressure on both parents and pupils. Making learning fun is important!

 Get Some Positivity

I love love love this small business and the idea behind it. Quang Hart’s small business Get Some Positivity creates affirmation/ motivational cards, the idea is to cultivate a positive mindset (I’m all up for that) and offer some support on your outlook on life. Quang’s small business was born out of the Covid-19 furlough scheme, giving her time to think and pursuit something new and channel her creativity. Living in a community like Castle Hill has its benefits, Get Some Positivity offer free downloads to residents and through this Quang has had some great feedback from residents, the Castle Hill Facebook group has been a platform for exposure as well as local events offering stall holder opportunities.

The affirmation cards are not only for adults, but they also have a beautiful little range for children. With the new school year starting, these will make the perfect little gift to boost confidence ready for your little ones first day (I’m adding some to my basket). It’s so lovely to think that something someone has lovely created may be in your home and that person may even be your neighbour!

Mimi Makina

I wanted a range of hidden business gems, and this one was my important find. The last 18 months have been stressful on all of us (to say the least). There have been so many life changes, how we socialise and interact with our loved ones, it’s felt so isolating. It may have left us feeling empty and questioning the direction we are travelling in.

Mimi Makina is an occupational therapist and a specialist mental health specialist mentor. She started a spiritual coaching business offering coaching for personal development. Mimi has always wanted to create a business to help people in their spiritual journey. She started studying spiritual counselling last year and through her diploma felt it was time to start offering services. As she is already a mentor, she figured it was time to combine my skills before fully transitioning into a spiritual counsellor. Mimi started her business during the pandemic but feels that it did not impact her business and mentoring online was smooth, the great thing about it is her services are easy and accessible online. It’s so lovely to know these services are out there because they are important.

 Custom Building Developments

Dean Clancey owns Custom Building Developments, a business that offers anything from roofing, domestic electrical works to garden makeovers. During the lockdown when we were all home and dreaming of the endless possibilities our of gardens being a peace haven, Dean and his team were out grafting, in all weathers! (The snow at Castle Hill seems like it was years ago).

Over 20% of Custom Building Development’s work is from this development alone, but Dean admits it’s probably a lot more than that. The power of word of mouth is hard to keep up with. Happy customers upload photos of his work and positive reviews on the Castle Hill Facebook page. The Castle Hill Facebook page can be a brilliant platform for small businesses to expand and be recognised, it’s not all parking doom and gloom on there.

Dean happily offers a no obligation quote, which is one of their redeeming features, there’s no pressure! What’s lovely is walking around the development you can see examples of his work, it’s like having a real-life catalogue, so if it’s a pub in your garden or a new roof, call Dean!

I need to create a directory because there are lots more small businesses on Castle Hill, I’m feeling a part 2 coming on in the near future!

I’ll be back soon,

Katie

2.08.21

Hello! I am writing to you from the comfort of my sofa, where I have spent the last week with my leg up! I was on holiday in sunny Whitstable, one of our favourite places! I decided to head out on a morning run (something I have learnt to love and really enjoy, even as I am writing this, I can’t believe it either ha-ha), out on my run I fell down a hole and broke my ankle! My smart watch told me I had completed my fastest ever kilometre, I’m not sure if I should be smug or not. So here I am in a moon boot and demonstrating the most fashionable limp. My kids think I am hilarious going up and down the stairs on my bum and my little girl said she liked the boot so it’s a no brainer really. If you see me hobbling about the development do give me a wave!

The sun really is teasing us, blink and you will miss it. I don’t know what to make of this summer. The only good thing to come out of it is, we started growing some vegetables, a project I was convinced would crash and burn. All the rain has resulted in our first tomato! It was tiny but very red, exciting, eh? (I guess there isn’t much going on in my house at the moment), we are now all deciding on what we should do with our one tomato?! Lol. I’m not too sure on the other veg yet, we can only hope.

But we move on (slowly), the six weeks holiday is now in full swing! How did that happen so fast? I needed to adapt my to do list with my two because trampolining and swimming are off now. Something I have wanted to do for a while but had not really got the chance to was drive over the new Springhead Park bridge! It is sad but I love finding new driving routes, it breaks it up and it’s a good job we did! We found the Springhead ‘cool’ park as my daughter named it. I liked it, it reminded me of some sort of futuristic playground, we had a great game of Spiderman and Batman climbing through the nests (obviously I was the one keeping a look out for Capital America). My son had his first experience of a swing and there is a lovely green space behind it for a runabout. We spent a good hour over at Springhead and it was lovely being somewhere different that still felt familiar to us. After our local experience I am on the look out for more little day outs and I’ll keep you posted.

I had been on a mission to declutter, with all the spare time on my hands I decided to look through my cupboards and wardrobe, a bit of a spring clean. I came across a fantastic local enterprise, the Dartford Repair café. The workshop runs the 2^nd and 4^th Tuesday of every month at Tree community centre, their ethos is don’t bin it – see if we can fix it. Encouraging the community to bring along small items and as a team have a look at repairing them, learning new skills, and meeting people. I am a massive fan already, I love recycling and upcycling and this place is reducing the amount going to landfill, which is golden. Check them out!

Last time I was here I said I would be back with a guide to small businesses, it’s almost finished, and I am excited to share, so keep your eyes peeled.

Stay safe and Take care.

Katie x

05.07.21

As soon as we said hello to the sun, and basked in its glorious rays, it was snatched away and replaced with rain. The grass may have needed it but I’m totally over it now!  If like me, you have had to dig out your long sleeve t-shirts and even possibly a cardie, you will want something nice to look forward to. We are heading towards hopefully our last Freedom Day and there is talk of yet ANOTHER heatwave (how long it lasts is anyone’s guess).

 If you are a football fan, this month has been a rollercoaster of emotion. Euro 2020 has given us a lift, me and the kids have especially enjoyed all the flags around the development and the sense of community, we are coming together to support our country (especially on match days, the roars can be heard all over Castle Hill). The Elephants have had a flag makeover and it’s now the highlight of our walk to Nursery. Are we coming home?! – after the last year we have had I hope so. Let’s see how we get on this Wednesday; it’s going to be a tense one. COME ON ENGLAND.

Somebody who has been brightening up the rainy weeks is Julia Laughton whose famous fabulous rock painting has out done itself, if you had a chance to see her work in Mercer Avenue it really did put a smile on my face. The hungry caterpillar, one of my daughter’s favourite books is living in the front garden along with all the food he has eaten, it was very exciting for the kids. The caterpillar is in memory of Eric Carle who passed away in May We can’t wait to see what Julia does next.

On Friday, me and the kids went along to Coffee Morning in the park held by Ebbsfleet Baptist Church, it’s a favourite of ours and we look forward to it every Friday. Nothing stops a good old cup of tea not even a chilly afternoon, and today we were lucky because the sun came out for us! If you are a stranger to Coffee Morning – don’t be!

The coffee morning prides itself on being the friendliest gig in town and it is! I remember nervously going along 2 years ago with my first child and panicking I wasn’t going to know anyone. I was completely new to the area, let alone the development. I was so glad I went, by the end of the session, I was chatting away, I felt so at ease seeing so many friendly faces giving me a reassuring smile. The best bit is I made some lovely friends and its great knowing people on the development; they may know things you don’t (like when the new pub is opening… I’m joking no-one does!?).

Coffee morning is cross generational, and their main message is just making people feel welcome. Living on a new development can sometimes be isolating and you may not have got to know your neighbours yet especially with the pandemic, this would be a great way to pop along and say hello. Whether you are working from home, retired or just feel like having a chat, it is for anybody who is free during the day. There are activities and a song time for babies and pre-schooler and even nibbles!

Friday’s coffee Morning were supporting the NHS Big Tea, a fabulous cause championing our heroes at the NHS. The official Big Tea party events are happening on the NHS’s birthday today! Monday 5^Th July. You can get involved by donating or brewing a cuppa and talking over a slice of cake. Over the pandemic lots of neighbours living on Castle Hill were frontline staff and the Thursday night’s banging pots and pans were our out pour of love and support for them were special.

I will be back next time with a guide to small businesses here on Castle Hill.

Take Care

Katie x

11.6.21

The sun has finally made an appearance! We can all step outside and enjoy some well earnt vitamin D. With Freedom Day on the horizon and for some of us, working from home is the new norm, looking after your wellbeing this summer is important.

In this blog post I am sharing my tips for wellbeing living in Castle Hill.

The Book Exchange –

“Reading gives us someplace to go when we have to stay where we are” – Mason Cooley.

The Book Exchange has made its way to Castle Hill, located outside the Community Centre. You may be a book worm or so busy you could not possibly think of picking up and book and reading it. Challenge yourself, try something new. If like me, you have some great books lying around and fancy a new read pop down and swap, or simply take a book and give it a go. I am guilty of really enjoying a book and only reading it once for it then to collect dust. Trying something new is my first top tip, it is so easy to be stuck in the same routine and moving out of your comfort zone may seem scary, but it is pretty exhilarating. Reading can often be seen as boring, but it is just the right amount of escapism you may need.

Walking – These boots are made for walking (flipflops if you are going this week), nothing can boost your mood quite like going for a good old-fashioned walk. If like me, you have children, it is more like a full-scale mission trying to leave the house with everything you need and in one piece – but it is worth it. My second tip is walking, we are so lucky to have open spaces on the development for walking. A walk really can boost your mood and set you up for the day. For those of you working from home try a ‘fake commute’, chose a route around the development and have a lengthy walk before starting work. The newly opened pathway that runs down Castle Hill Drive behind Norman Lane is a great shaded spot for walking in sweaty weather, it is a lovely downhill walk finishing by the Co-op. If you are lucky enough, you may have a brief encounter with our new local celebrities, the ducks. If you would prefer a walk where it is a little flatter, cross the road at the top of Castle Hill Drive and enjoy the gravel path surrounded by grass, with newly installed children’s play (my kids love this), the path leads to a Grow Your Own Project just off Mercer Avenue. There are lots of things to catch your eye around here.

Picnics – Deciding what to have for lunch everyday can sometimes be repetitive, my third tip is go for a picnic. A favourite spot for us is at the Elephant Park (the park located at the front of the development), the big open green is perfect for chucking a mat down and enjoying some lunch. Getting some fresh air and a change of scenery at lunchtime can break up the day. Picnics do not have to be soggy sandwiches, they can be little works of art (stay with me), swap crisps for breadsticks and dips, spruce up sandwiches with sourdough bread and for those of you with little one’s fruit muffins are a good alternative to melting chocolate. Having a picnic can be a social too, a chance to catch up with a friend under the current restrictions.

Exercise – my last tip is exercise, now this might be the last thing you are thinking about, it is already sweaty enough as it is without throwing in exercise, but it is those feel-good endorphins you are after. If you do fancy a bit of light working out, try going early morning or evening so you are not out under the full beams of sunshine. I joined a Couch to 5K group (run by Ebbsfleet Sunday Active) 9 weeks ago today, if anybody had told me I would be running I would have laughed them down, the thought of squeezing myself into gym wear and running alongside a group, out in the open!? – no chance. BUT I absolutely love it. Penny Marsh one of the lovely run leaders describes the group as a “friendly running group where no-one gets left behind – we aim to make our sessions fun and suitable for all abilities” – Penny is absolutely right, running is fun!

Sunday Active will be back very soon with sessions on Sunday mornings if you fancy trying a group exercise, which also includes walking, check out their Facebook page Sunday Active – Ebbsfleet for more information.

If running is not your cup of tea, and it is not for everybody, there are plenty of other fitness activities to do here on the development. If you want something a bit more chilled, Yoga and Pilates with Emma is available at the Community Centre every Tuesday evening from 7.15pm. Emma’s classes “seek to bring a sense of well-being to both the body and mind and can leave you feeling more content and at ease with yourself”. Emma emphasises that everybody is welcome – this is on my list to try. For more information check out – yogaandpilateswithemma.co.uk.

My last tip is to just enjoy the summer, after the last year we have had enjoy the little things!

Stay safe and thank you for reading.