Adventures in Finland

Obviously, the main highlight of our adventure to Finland was seeing Anna's Uncle Matthew and Auntie Ulriikka getting married, which was always going to be special.

However, in the lead up to this event, we had to amuse ourselves somehow and so, Tampere (town in Finland where Matthew and Ulriikka live) was explored at great length. Our feet certainly knew about it!

After recovering from the flight, our first day in Finland saw us take a trip to an observation tower. Ulriikka had recommended that we go as this was her favourite place in the whole of Tampere, not least of all because of the amazing doughnuts and coffee which was served at the foot of the tower.

We located the observation tower on the map but Matthew had recommended that we take a taxi due to a big steep hill (and Matthew walks a lot so we knew the hill would be big), so we decided to take a taxi. We also thought it might be a good idea as it would give us a useful view of the city via the luxury of the back seat of cab.

After driving through a beautiful forest, which included a rather steep hill, the taxi's dropped us off and drove off. At this point, Flob decides to inform us that he doesn't think this is the observation tower. Now, I don't want to lay the blame entirely at Flob's feet as I do admit that the observation tower did not look that impressive or even high from the outside (although we seemed to forget that the observation tower was located on the highest hill in Finland and therefore would give a good viewpoint anyway). Flob then proceeded to tell us that the observation tower that he had seen on the tourist website (Number one attraction in Tampere) looked nothing like this particular tower. If memory recalls, I did suggest that someone should go and enquire inside the tower and that I did believe that this was indeed the observation tower that Ulriiikka recommended but nobody believed me (I tend to have that a lot!!) so we all headed down the hill. Then someone mentioned that they could see the other observation tower and we should head in that direction because it didn't look too far away. As it turns out, it was actually the other side of the city (at least 3 miles!). Luckily, we didn't get too far! At this point, I am still muttering that I think I was right when I suddenly have the brainwave of texting Ulriikka. At this point, I think everyone wondered whether I had lost my marbles but it seemed to make sense to ask the girl who was actually born and raised in Finland and who lived here. I realise she was in the midst of planning her forthcoming wedding but I hoped she wouldn't mind receiving a text asking what the observation tower should look like. It wasn't long before she replied.

At this point, I would love to say that I was not smug but I was! So we all turned around and went back up the hill (after debating whether it was actually worth it but the thought of doughnuts convinced me and Charlotte that it was very worth it!!).

I am pleased to say, that in my opinion, I think the tower was worth walking up that hill! It also meant that the coffee and doughnut was very well-earned so not so much of a guilty pleasure and just a pleasure! Anna loved the taste of her very first doughnut too! The view from the top of the tower was also a pleasure and made us realise that Tampere was actually a very nice town.

With the Moomin's originating from Finland, we also felt it was essential that we visit the Moomin Museum. As a 'tourist must', I was also keen to go despite the fact that the Moomin's used to scare me senseless as a child (Goodness knows why!). Luckily, they didn't scare me this time. I'm not sure Anna was too impressed with the Moomin's although she now knows what they are. However, she then found a room in the Museum that had a dressing up wardrobe so spent a great deal of time trying on the crown's, tiara's and princess dresses (nothing to do with Moomin's but great fun for Anna!!!)

On the day after the wedding, Me, James and Anna along with Uncle John and Auntie Charlotte (much to Anna's delight who was stuck to her beloved Auntie Charlotte throughout the whole Finland trip) went to the amusement park. Very early on in our trip, we had discovered that Tampere had a tourist season that very much ended on the 1st September. With our trip being the 23rd of September, attractions were slightly on the quiet side and this amusement park was no different. It was very surreal looking over an amusement park that was completely empty and stood very still (whilst stood at the second observation tower of the town and the one that Flob had recommended).

(Anna at the top of the observation Tower)

However, all was not lost, as there as still an aquarium, planetarium and Dolphin show that was open. The Aquarium was good and Anna loved watching the fish while the planetarium was not so good.

(Uncle John puckering up for his kiss with a fish whose nickname was 'Kissing Fish'. The Fish liked the look of Uncle John and was puckering up too! It makes Anna laugh every time she sees this Photo!)

However, it was the dolphin show that provided the most interesting aspect f the day. It was also the moment where I felt immensely proud of my little girl. The show started very promising with the 4 dolphins performing acrobatic tricks and 'wowing' the crowd. Anna adored it and laughed, applauded and cheered. However, 5 minutes in and the actors emerged to perform a 'short' play which lasted 45 minutes with very little dolphin action. This wouldn't have been so bad except the whole play was in Finnish so there were 5 members of the audience who knew nothing of what was going on. One of these spectators was a 2 year old Anna. Now, 45 minutes is a long time in any 2 year old's book but especially when you have to sit still and listen to 4 people talking in an entirely alien language to you and not having any clue what was happening. However, Anna just sat beautifully, anticipating when dolphins would re-appear and whispering to Charlotte that she loved sharks (Sharks and dolphins look similar!!). Thankfully, the last 5 mins of the show saw the dolphins reappear and dazzle the crowd again, which made it all worth it in Anna's eyes. I was extremely proud of Anna and still am when I think about it, especially when you consider that some Finnish children, much older than Anna, didn't sit so beautifully and they could understand what was going on.

Other highlights of the trip was James' trip to the local McDonalds to 'taste test' their Big Macs and then voice his surprise when the Finnish Big Mac tastes exactly the same as the English version!

Another highlight was a night out in a German restaurant (I know... we were in Finland eating at a German restaurant. We went to a Spanish restaurant the night after!!). After our meal, entertainment was in the form of a German band (who were all Finnish!). It was actually a lovely evening and it was good to spend time with Matthew before his wedding the next day. The actual highlight came as it was time to leave (about Midnight). Anna had fallen asleep only a few minutes before and, to get out of the bar/restaurant involved us walking past the live, very loud, band. With Anna asleep in James' arms, we headed to the door of the packed bar and, as we passed the band, they all played/sang very quietly so not to wake Anna! I was touched by the gesture.

I would love to say that Anna learnt many things from the Finnish culture but I fear not. However, something that Anna did learn was how to recognise the words 'Holiday Inn'. She got very excited whenever she saw the glowing green light of the hotel sign and, now even back in the UK, whenever she sees a Holiday Inn sign on paper or on the side of the building, Anna says 'Look Mummy, Holiday Inn. I like the holiday Inn. Can we go to Holiday Inn again'. I think this can also be translated for her liking of Finland.

The other thing that Anna learnt was that planes fly to Finland. However, she now believes that EVERY plane is going to Finland so will point to aeroplane flying overhead and shout 'Look, that plane is going to Finland'.

Despite seeing lots of things in Finland such as the Moomin Museum, 2 observation towers and a Dolphin show as well as walk the entire city many times (it is a small place), none of these things were the true highlight for me and Anna. This is because, I feel, that the true highlight was getting to spend some real quality time with Grandma Lynn, Grandad Flob, Uncle Henry, Uncle John and Auntie Charlotte. With John and Charlotte living in Edinburgh, we never get to spend as long as we would like with them and I also think you get to see a deeper side to people when going on holiday with them. It was lovely that Anna got to spend so much time with them as I think it just confirmed what she already knew which was that she has a wonderful family. To me, that is what made Tampere/Finland such a lovely place to visit.

Flying High

Although it is now nearly a month since we went to Finland, I have still not included a post about Anna's first time in an aeroplane. (shame on me!!!) It still feels like it was a pretty significant event in Anna's life to date so, despite the blog being long overdue (along with blogs about our other adventures in Finland and her first few weeks in pre-school, which she is loving so much that she whinges on the days she doesn't go and thinks pre-school is much better than her Mummy!), I thought I had better get on and write about it before I have forgot all about it too!

We arrived at Manchester airport early on that Wednesday morning. On the way there, we had been explaining that Anna would be going an aeroplane but Anna just thought we were being silly. 'I don't think so' repeated Anna on several occasions.

Anna forgot all about any potential air travel as soon as we arrived at the airport. What excited Anna more was the luggage trolley so, as James took the car to park, Anna insisted on pushing the heavy luggage trolley around the terminal. Despite my best efforts to stop her, she managed to collide head-on with another trolley. The security guard gave us a very stern look and I felt like a very naughty school child while Anna was oblivious and began singing ''We're Going to the Zoo' (In her excitement, she forgot what she was actually getting excited about!!!)

By the time it came to check-in, Anna was completely over-excited and tried to climb over the desk to personally show the patient gentleman her passport photo, accompanied by trying to tell him her own version of her life story!

We then headed through to Passport Control where we encountered our first problem. After loading my handbag, Anna's backpack and various coats into the plastic tray, which would then be transported through the x-ray machine, the rather-stern woman pointed to Anna's cube and cuddly Peppa Pig and told us, in no uncertain terms, that they were to be placed in the tray as well. At first, I thought I would get away as I gently took Peppa and the cube out of Anna's hands and explained that they was going on a little journey in the tray. However, the calm quickly descended into chaos when Peppa and the cube disappeared into the noisy, clanging and banging x-ray machine. At this point, I had stooped down to try and explain that Peppa and the cube would pop out the other end soon and was frantically pointing out the exit point where Peppa and the cube would emerge shortly. However, in order to reach that point, it also meant going through the gate (the one that beeps if you have something suspicious on your person) and the lady was not taking kindly to me hesitating to go through the gate as I tried to persuade Anna that Peppa would be coming out the other end. 'I can't leave Peppa and the cube' wailed Anna. It was then that the stern woman wailed at me . 'Pick the child up and walk through NOW' as though I had just drawn a weapon from my pocket. I feared the worst as I walked through, knowing that if Anna and I beeped, we would both need to be searched which would prolong the whole reunion with her beloved cube and we would probably kick off a riot of some sort as Anna assaulted the bossy lady for getting in her way of being reunited with her beloved, smelly, dirty-looking stuffed cube!! Thankfully we didn't beep and only managed to get lots of businessmen scurrying off in a million different directions as a wailing Anna approached the x-ray machine to await the arrival. As soon as Peppa and the cube arrived, Anna began laughing and said 'Did you enjoy the ride Peppa and cube'. Within 3 minutes, Anna had forgotten the whole trauma of the incident! In fact, on the return leg of the journey in Helsinki, Anna actually placed Peppa and the cube in the tray, waved at them and shouted 'Have a nice ride cube. See you at the other end Peppa' before running through the scanner to the other end of the x-ray machine to wave at them as they returned, (looking like a parent who eagerly awaits their child emerging from school after their the first day)

It wasn't long after that we were boarding the plane. While waiting in the queue, we saw another plane land on the runway and Anna looked very unimpressed, despite the fact that this plane looked much bigger in real life than it does high in the sky. 'Shall we go on an aeroplane ride?' I suggested hopefully. After some thought, Anna replied 'Can we go on the funfair ride on the aeroplane'. A wave of relief came over me as I realised that Anna was started to get excited about the prospect. However, I also realised that she had never actually experienced it before and that might be an entirely different type of reaction.

As we got on the actual plane, Anna said 'Look Mummy, it is a bus'! Oh dear!

To our delight (and their horror), we found that we were seated exactly opposite Grandma Lynn, Grandad Flob and Uncle Henry. I think that they were secretly hoping that we would be placed at the front of the plane while they were at the back as the screams would seem a lot quieter from back there. Either that or Grandad Flob and Grandma Lynn was hoping that they could have a quiet nap or a long read of their book, which was never going to happen with an over-excited Anna sat next to them. I have later found out that, on the way back, Flob even asked the check in girl whether he would be seated next to us. However, I am yet to find out whether he was asking due to the desire to sit next to his cherished, loud and over-excited grand-daughter or whether he was asking in the hope that he could be sat as far away as possible. I will endeavour to find out at a later date! However, regardless of what he wished for, we all ended up sitting together on the way back too!!!!!

As we were locating our seats, I did offer Anna the window seat so that she could gaze at the clouds and deep blue sky but she quickly declined. Sitting next to her Grandma Lynn, so that she could tell her all about Winnie the Witch, was much more exciting (Lucky Grandma Lynn!!!).

As soon as we started moving, Anna got excited. 'We're off' she kept repeating over and over again. Then, as the plane picked up speed and hurtled down the runway, a steadily louder 'whoaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa' was coming from Anna. Now this was going to end in one of 2 ways... either the 'Whoaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa' would have turned into an 'aggghhhhhhhhhhhhhh' as Anna decided that she hated air travel (which would have then lasted the whole duration of the 3 hour flight) or the whooaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa' would turn into a 'yeahhhhhhhhhhhhh' as Anna loved the sensation of being lifted high into the air. Thankfully, it was the latter and a very excited Anna was soon telling all of the passengers how much she loved aeroplane rides.

For the next 3 hours, Anna was excellent. I realise that I am a biased mother but I truly think she was wonderfully behaved and we were both very proud of her. The same could be said for the way back.

During our flight, Anna took little notice of what was going on outside the window and I wasn't even sure that she had grasped that we were flying. However, she would then say things like 'Look Mummy, white clouds like cotton wool' or 'Look how blue the sky is Mummy' so I think she did get it. I suppose I was expecting her to think that flying in mid-air was all magical but Anna took it with a pinch of salt!

I was a little worried that, after getting off the 3 hour flight in Helsinki, that Anna would be less excited about going on the half an hour connecting flight to Tampere but there was no need to worry as Anna was more than a little keen to embark on another flight into the sky. In fact, she thought the second flight was even better because, not only did she get a chocolate bar from the air steward (and Finnish chocolate as well so even better) but also she got to go on a bus ride from the terminal to the aeroplane which made Anna go into hyper-drive of excitement! A bus trip and an aeroplane ride all in one day - what more could a girl ask for!

The New Mr and Mrs Gibson

I feel like I'm in heaven when you're with me.

I know that I'm in heaven when you smile.
('Little Trip to Heaven'. Tom Waits)

I had never been to an intimate wedding before. By intimate, I mean 30 guests and an approach which intended for the occasion to be very relaxed and cosy.

There is something very beautiful about intimacy.

At 6pm on Friday 25th September, Matthew and Ulriikka were married in Tampere, Finland.

The Gibson/Casson clan rolled up to the gates of a 'stately home' although that seems an inadquote word to describe it. It was beautiful and was only enhanced by the walk up the grand stairs, above which hung the most sparkly and intricate chandeliers. We were then lead into an oak-panelled room which would serve as the dining room. To the right, was a smaller room with a grand piano and harp (this was to be the room where the wedding would take place).

After standing to admire the beauty of the location, Anna immediately set eyes on the harp and made a beeline to it. 'Look Mummy, a harp' she cheered. I didn't have very long to stand there looking like the impressed and smug Mummy about my 2 year old daughter knowing it was harp because Anna was clambering upon the stool in order to play the very expensive and delicate instrument. I raced over to explain that this wasn't actually her play thing. At which point, Anna decided to burst into tears. For the entire duration of our time in Finland, Anna had been huge smiles and a picture of pure joy. Just as Ulriikka's family walked in, for the very first time we were to meet them, Anna decided to shout at me that she wanted to play the harp, in amongst the snot and tears that were streaming down her face! Great first impression we must have made!

Thankfully, I calmed her down enough in order to take our seats and wait for the bride and groom. As the previous weddings this summer had taught me, I needed a bribe so presented Anna with some Finnish biscuits that we had purchased at the airport. Anna took one bite and was not impressed (It should have been chocolate. Just for half an hour, I wouldn't have cared!). Never mind, Anna seemed happy enough, just to sit and wait. Good Girl.

Then the music began and we stood to greet the bride and groom walk in. They both looked wonderful. Ulriikka always looks beautiful but even more so and Matthew didn't scrub up too badly either. The evening before, he had fairly long hair and an unshaven look but I have to say that Anna's uncle looked very much the dashing gent! As though he had just stepped off the film set of a Jane Austen adaptation, complete with very smart suit.

At this point, I would love to tell you that the wedding ceremony itself was truly beautiful and reduced everyone to tears. I have it on good authority that it was indeed very touching and emotional but, unfortunately, this was the one wedding that I didn't get to see this summer. It was my own fault for I had confused my poor daughter earlier in the day and, instead of waiting to ask me about it after the wedding, she needed answers there and then and was telling me in no uncertain terms by shouting!

Let me explain... While getting ready for the wedding. I had put Anna in her wedding outfit (known as her 'princess dress') and explained that we were going to Auntie Ulriikka and Uncle Matthews wedding. She looked me up and down, seeing me still dressed in jeans and a T-shirt and said 'Daddy in Princess suit. Anna in my princess dress. Mummy in that. Are you going to the wedding Mummy?'. Anna was clearly worried that I was not going too so I explained that I was about to jump in the shower and I would put my dress on immediately afterwards. This seemed to calm Anna and all was well. However, after getting out of the shower and putting my make-up on, there was a knock at the door as Grandma Lynn had come to ask my advice about her fascinator so I quickly grabbed the hotel dressing gown and threw that on before opening the door.

After Lynn had gone, Anna felt it obligatory to compliment me (such a polite young lady!) so said 'Lovely Mummy. What a lovely Holiday Inn dress'. Anna had learnt how to recognise the words 'Holiday Inn' during our time in Finland as this was the hotel we had been staying at and the emblem was now emblazoned on my right boob of the dressing gown. 'No Anna. This isn't my dress' I hastily explained as I raced into the bathroom to finish getting ready and put my intended dress on. After which, Auntie Charlotte arrived so I then didn't get another glance from Anna until we were seated at the wedding, watching as Ulriikka and Matthew were coming up the aisle.

Due to the fact that Charlotte was not seated next to Anna, Anna now had time to give me a good look up and down and suddenly said (in a disgusted voice) 'Where is your holiday inn dress Mummy'. I tried to quieten her down but Anna was clearly not happy. 'I like your Holiday Inn dress Mummy. I don't like this one.' Anna had a point to make and she didn't care who heard it. It was no good. The whole wedding ceremony was going to be drowned out by Anna's love for the Holiday Inn!! Therefore I took her out to the balcony, with the intention of calming her down enough to return.

Of course, as soon as we left the room where the ceremony was taking place, Anna then burst into tears and was yelling 'I want to see Auntie Ulrriikka and Uncle Matthew'. After 5 minutes stood on the balcony, explaining about the holiday inn dressing gown and the fact that Anna had to be very good and quiet at the wedding, Anna was calm enough to return. I then spent a further 2 minutes reminding Anna that she was to be quiet because this was Uncle Matthews big moment. 'Yes Mummy' Anna dutifully replied, trying very hard to look like the angel who could do no wrong. I then tried to open the door back into the main room. Unfortunately, the door was self-locking and I had just locked myself out on the balcony! 'I'm ready to go back in Mummy' said Anna. Oh dear! I then had to explain that we were not going to be able to get back in until the ceremony was over. Cue more tears and a tantrum!

Thankfully, the ceremony was soon over and a very kind Finnish lady, who spoke very little English, could understand my sign language for 'Please let me back in. I am freezing'. Anna and I then went to congratulate the happy couple, who were looking very relieved that the formal bit was over.

It was then time to eat. The tables were laid in a very simple yet stunning way. There were no huge bouquets adorning every spare space but they were not needed. It was the detail that made it so gorgeous and Ulriikka and Matthew had obviously put so much hard work into the fine detail. Waiting for Anna was a teddy with a little Finland T-shirt on (We have called him 'Finn'. Admittedly not the most creative of names but apt!) and, inside her little box wrapped in ribbon and bows, was a little Moomin (A Finnish invention!). Each person had a box wrapped in a ribbon bow and, each small gift inside was individually selected for the person. In each box, we also had some lyrics from Matthew and Ulriikka's music collection. Again, it was the little detail like this that made it so beautiful as, for anyone that knows Matthew knows, music is his life and so the lyrics made it a unique and personal touch to Matthew and Ulriikka's big day.

If the song I sing to you
could fill your heart with joy,
I'd sing forever.
('Forever'. The Beach Boys)

The food was absolutely gorgeous from the fresh salmon to start, to the most divine wedding cake you have ever tasted consisting of White chocolate and berries (not traditional in the English sense of the word but simply stunning). To accompany our dinner was a pianist and it was all just beautiful. We were also lucky to have Ulriikka's Finnish friend sat with us, who happens to go to university in Manchester and speaks better English than I do. Therefore she could enlighten us to Finnish wedding traditions.

One Finnish tradition is when it came to cutting the cake. Apparently, it is tradition that, whilst cutting the cake, the bride and groom must attempt to stand on the other's foot first and, whoever achieves it, is the person who will control the house. Thankfully, Ulriikka already had a fine grasp of being a Mrs Gibson and told the guests that this tradition didn't need to be carried out as everyone knew who wore the trousers in their household (and it isn't Matthew)! Apparently another Finnish tradition is that the bride's family should kidnap the bride during the wedding day and then the groom must do something fitting and honourable enough to earn his bride back. Luckily that tradition wasn't carried out either as we may never have seen Ulriikka again!

Unfortunately Anna didn't taste any of her dinner as she had been conveniently placed right next to the light switch. At first, no one knew what this was because it was different to any other light switch I had seen before but Anna soon used her investigative skills and the room was plunged into darkness on more than one occasion. Of course, I tired to stop her each time but sometimes, my reactions were just not quick enough. James, who was sat opposite me, would shout 'Lou', just as Anna's tiny hand reached for the button. Sometimes, I was just a split second too late. I think it was Anna's way of telling everyone to start the music and she would provide the flashing disco lights!! Every time that I switched the lights back on, 30 faces were all looking at me and the room had fell silent (after everyone had laughed) so I felt the need to apologise every time. At one point, I apologised for Anna turning the lights off and then apologised for not knowing the Finnish word for sorry because I was saying it so often! Thankfully, because all of the guest were so lovely, everyone saw the amusing side and smiled.

While we tucked into our coffee, whiskey, Irish liqueur and cake (Perfect!!!!!!!), it was time for the speeches. Ulriikka's parents speak very little English but enough that Ulriikka's father spoke in Finnish while Ulriikka's mother would read the English translation. It was a little bizarre to start as the Finnish guests would laugh very loudly at the Finnish speech while the English members were not sure how to react (not having understood a word). It seemed rude to sit there and not laugh when obviously a joke had just been made! However, fortunately the speech was so good that you soon forgot the translation element to it. Basically, Ulriikka's parents had read a Moomin story (very traditional and native to Finland) and they then adapted the story so that it was the story of Matthew and Ulriikka meeting. It was very clever.

It was then Grandad Flob's turn to make a speech. He stood up and, with a nervous hint to his voice, greeted everyone and.. we were plunged into darkness as Anna turned the lights off!!! As I frantically turned the lights back on, everyone was laughing very loudly and even the Finnish guest were telling me it was just Anna's way of telling her Grandad Flob to hurry up!! I would like to think that the laughter put Flob at slightly more ease as his speech was very good and heartfelt. Matthew then made his speech where he compared his new wife to a donkey, or words to that effect! In fact, Matthew's speech was pretty excellent too, it has to be said and I actually thought the donkey analogy was a very good way of summing up the task of making a speech at your own wedding!

After all of this, a slideshow was shown, almost like a 'This is Your Life moment' where it told the story of a boy and girl growing up and who happened, in 2004, to meet in a club in Manchester. In all the bars in all the world.... It is fair to say that this had the whole room in tears!

I am fairly certain that most people shed some tears of both laughter and sentimentality at such a beautiful tribute, not least of all at some of the shocking photos of James when he was little!

Once all of this was done, it was then the first dance. The words were beautiful and perfect for the occasion.
Of course, it didn't take long before Anna was up dancing (once Matthew and Ulriikka had a moment and other guests had been invited up) and so soon, Anna was dancing with the bride and groom and then Grandma Lynn and Grandad Flob but thankfully, no one seemed to mind.


The rest of the evening was spent pouring drinks and just having a really good time basically. When thinking about Matthew's wedding reception, I will remember John, James' other brother and dentist, making me laugh, and indeed the whole table, until the tears were streaming down my face, when discussing my particular toothpaste prescription!! (Very long story but one that I will remember and treasure for all the wrong reasons!)

Despite the language differences, it was wonderful to hear so much talking and laughing together and I'm not sure you would have got that if it hadn't been such an intimate wedding.

And once the venue had thrown us out, the party continued at a hotel down the road. Unfortunately, it was half past midnight by then and, despite a 2 year old who could have easily partied all night, the good parenting side of us kicked in and we thought we should take her to bed. I am told that the party went on until 5am the next morning while Ulriikka was so high on adrenalin that she ended up watching all about hunting rituals on the Discovery channel! A memorable wedding night then!

It was a great privilege to be at such a wonderful occasion. At our wedding, James and I had rather a big 'do' and I wouldn't want to change that for anything because, to us, it was our perfect day. However, there was something very special about Matthew and Ulrikka's wedding. Maybe it was because, being small and informal, meant that it truly felt like we were all celebrating the same thing and that every single person in that room truly loved and cared for the couple that were getting married. Therefore, this common bond meant we all felt closer to it and more relaxed with each other.

It may also have felt so special because this marriage was one which reminds you that true love does exist and you just know that they will be together forever. I remember the weekend before our own wedding where Matthew was best man and we were all at the rehearsal together. He had only just met Ulriikka a few weeks previously and yet, he talked about her so much! Matthew doesn't always say a great deal and so it has probably stuck in my memory even more because he was so animated and happy whilst talking about her.

It was a massive shame that Sally and Isla couldn't be there but Isla is still too little to travel so it is perfectly understandable. They were missed very much. To have James, Matthew, Sally and John in the same room at the same time seems like an almost impossible task at the moment (due to circumstances beyond their control) but hopefully the first wedding anniversary might be an occasion where they all meet up! Failing that, we always have John and Charlotte's wedding in 2011!

So that was how the new Mr and Mrs Gibson were married! Obviously Anna is thrilled that Ulriikka is now a Gibson as she can now pretend that Ulriikka is her Mummy!!!

I can also highly recommend being a 'Mrs Gibson' as it is pretty special and fantastic so it is lovely to know that there is now another Mrs Gibson around. It is a little sad to think that they are both so far away but hopefully we will see them again soon.

Huge congratulations to the new Mr and Mrs Gibson!

... I believe in love

and I know that you do too.
And I believe in some kind of path that we can walk down - me and you.
So keep your candles burning, make a journey bright and pure,
that you'll keep returning, always and forever more,
into my arms.
('Into My Arms'. Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds)

A Finnish Hangover!

I have not forgotten the blog and I will try very hard to write all about Anna's adventures in Finland very soon. However, after such an experience travelling to a very different country with a very intrigued and energetic 2 year old (who never ever sleeps when there is a party to be had or she thinks there might be one she is missing!!), Coupled with the fact that it was Anna's first day at pre-school today (which was a disaster!!), I am exhausted! I did begin to write about Anna's very first time on an aeroplane but I was struggling to even think about 3 word sentences so I have had to give up! I will be back soon.

(As Lou wobbles off to go and continue to eat mountains of Finnish Chocolate which is the best chocolate ever, as she puts on several thousand stones!)

Come Fly with Me

On Wednesday morning at 10.30am, we take to the skies. You will probably hear the screams, regardless of where you live in the country!

On the one hand, I am very excited. The flight will take us to Finland where we get to witness Anna's Uncle Matthew and Auntie Ulriikka marry, which will be a wonderfully happy event. It will also be lovely to attend a wedding where myself, James and/or Anna are not playing a key role. Don't get me wrong, it was a privilege to do but a wedding where we are just mere guests sounds lovely, just for a change! I just wish they didn't live so far away which requires air travel! What is the matter with rainy, grey Manchester???

I have no dislike for Finland as a country. I just have a major dislike to flying. I resent having to be trapped in a confined space with less air than normal, defying the laws of gravity and full of strangers. It gets even worse with a 2 year old who I find difficult to keep still at the best of times. 10.30am is not a great time to travel either. Anna will be fully awake with no desire to sleep whatsoever! In fact, I am having worse nightmares about this than I ever did whilst contemplating Anna as Bridesmaid (and that is saying something!)

One of Anna's favourite pastimes this summer has been to lie on the grass with her Daddy lying next to her, gazing up at the sky and spotting the aeroplanes flying overhead (Anna spots them a much greater speed and accuracy than her Daddy could ever dream of!!). Therefore, we began to use this opportunity to explain that she would be going in one of these flying machines soon. Anna looks less than convinced. 'Oh dear, Mummy and Daddy have not had much sleep again!'

I am armed with numerous colouring books, sticker books and story books. In fact, for the past couple of months, every shop that I pass has seen me going in, just to see if there is yet another colouring book I could find which might hold Anna's attention for more than a nano-second. She refuses to sit in the car seat unless Abba is playing before she gets in. To combat this, we have also downloaded every Abba, Lady Gaga and all other cheesy current pop songs onto the Ipod but I am still not holding out much hope.

To make matters worse, after a flight of 3 hours to get to Helsinki, we then have 45 mins to get a connecting flight to Tampere, which includes getting off the plane with a 2 year old, going through passport control and getting to to the other side of the airport apparently. That is not even the part I am most worried about because I am more petrified about the fact that I then have to convince Anna to get on another plane after she has just been made to sit still for 3 hours on one. Why would she want to get on another one. I will desperately try to explain that this one will only be for 25 mins but, being 2 years old, the concept of time is not great.

James is feeling much more positive. He thinks Anna will be fooled into thinking it is a funfair ride. I think it may work for all of 10 minutes before she starts to realise that it is actually a bit boring and asking to get off to go on something more exciting.

There will be one consolation to Anna though,which may just work, and that is the promise that Auntie Ulriikka and Auntie Charlotte are going to be at the final destination. We have already told Anna that she will be seeing them both this week and Anna has talked of nothing else. In Anna's eyes, I am very small in significance compared to Ulriikka and Charlotte. In fact, all other female relatives in either of our families are called either Charlotte or Ulriikka by Anna as they are so heroic! I may have to pin a photo of each of them on each ear muff, in order to drown out the major tantrum from Anna for the entire duration of the flight from hell.

Failing that, I will be leaving the aircraft with a nervous breakdown along with 150 fellow passengers!
Bon Voyage!

Thomas Land

Earlier this year, Anna visited Thomas the Tank Engine at Llangollen and adored ever second. I even wrote a blog as it was such an excellent day.

Anna is a big fan of Thomas the Tank Engine books and, indeed, her train track, complete with Percy, James and Thomas as they whizz around the track as she pretends to be station Master, setting the points and stopping them at the station before pressing the 'go' button again. (The worrying side of Anna also finds it hilarious when she makes them go crashing into each other too!). She is not the hugest fan of the TV series unless the show features a lot of Thomas in the episode (Anna is never interested unless it features the big time stars. Always the diva!!!).

Well, after such big success at Lllangollen and with James wanting to use up some of his holiday allocation, we decided to visit 'Thomas Land.' For those of you not familiar with the world of Thomas, it is situated at Drayton Manor Theme park, close to Birmingham.

This was Anna's first time at a Theme park so we were not sure how she was going to react to all the screaming and mayhem (and that was just her parents!) but it was going to be an adventure.

Due to our inability to get out of the house before midday most days (I have to get Anna to playgroup at 9am in the morning, which she starts in 2 weeks time. It is going to be a miracle if I ever do it!!!), we stayed the night in a hotel close to the theme park on the night before. This was a good idea except Anna thought it was far too exciting when she found herself in a sofa bed which is bigger than a normal sized double bed and her Mummy and Daddy sleeping in the same room!!! Eventually she did fall asleep but then proceeded to fall out of bed at least twice (the bed was very low to the ground so no injuries), which staggers belief when she was in a bed which was 3 times her normal bed!!!

Therefore, a bleary eyed Anna arrived at Thomas Land feeling rather tired! However, thankfully, excitement soon overtook any weariness that she may have felt. As soon as she saw Thomas going 'Peep Peep' on the track, Anna ran as fast as her little legs could carry her, through the gates of Thomas Land and into her own paradise!

We had arrived early so there were not many people around. However, despite the information stating that rides did not begin until 10.30am, we were lucky enough that the attendants actually started letting us ride from 10am. Anna quickly made her way to 'Harold the Flying Helicopter' and just yelped with sheer joy when her very own little helicopter transported her very high into the air and round and round and round. Anna had never ever been on any amusement ride before so we were unsure how she would react but, of course, Anna loved every second. As soon as she got off, she ran out, shouting 'What's next Mummy and Daddy'.

Of course, we had to take a train ride with Thomas so, after Anna choosing that we must sit in the Annie carriage (Clarabel just isn't up to it!), we went for a train journey through the theme park before returning on Percy, whilst Anna chatted away to both engines for the entire journey both there and on the way back!

We then proceeded to go on Diesel, the manic train who just shunted you back and forth until I felt very sick indeed. Anna wanted More!

We then went on Bertie the Bus which is basically a mini bus (made to look like Bertie) which then goes around like a huge big wheel but much faster, going both forward and back and getting stuck in mid air for quite a while! This actually proved to be the biggest hit of the day and we were made to go on it 8 times throughout the duration of the day! After the 6th ride, James couldn't handle anymore and said that he would need at least 4 days to recover from Bertie. Anna shouted 'More please Mummy'.

The 3 of us then decided to ride on Anna's very first rollercoaster - the Troublesome Trucks. Now, considering that this was a young child's ride, I thought the Rollercoaster was actually really scary (I am the woman who thought Nemesis at Alton Towers was a bit too tame!!!). It went really fast and tilted really dramatically at times. Of course, Anna just giggled throughout it!

It wasn't long however, before Anna realised that there were even bigger rides to explore. So, with Anna literally dragging her Daddy, they went on the old-fashioned carousel with the galloping horses! Anna was convinced that she had won the race when the ride eventually stopped.

On reflection though, I think since becoming a Mum, I feel incredibly more vulnerable! After discovering the delights of the bigger rides. Anna asked to go on the Big Wheel next. Heights don't bother me so the big wheel has never been a daunting prospect. However, while sat in a basket at the top of that big wheel, looking out over the whole theme park and swinging from side to side like we were about to drop, I suddenly felt a little scared. Not for me but because my brain was questioning whether Anna was entirely safe. Of course, she was entirely safe and it was just my mummy instincts kicking in and being over-protective for a brief second but it is strange how Motherhood, without even realising it, makes you see EVERYTHING with entirely new eyes.

By lunchtime, Anna was definitely slowing and we even thought that she may have fallen asleep in the afternoon. However, Anna wasn't going to miss one second of the excitement and, after a quick fuel stop (she even turned down her yogurt in favour of getting back out to the fun stuff), we were back out in the thick of it.

It wasn't long before Anna was yearning for Thomas Land though and, so, we spent the afternoon amongst Bertie, Harold, Thomas and friends.

However, as the day was drawing to a close and the light was beginning to fade, James and I couldn't resist a ride for ourselves. So, being the entirely responsible parents that we are, we dressed Anna in the biggest raincoat we could find and headed for the Canyon Rapids. Anna's eye were beginning to get heavy and, for the first time all day, she asked to be carried whilst in the queue. However, as soon as we sat down in our 'boat thing,' Anna found the last bit of energy and then giggled herself silly as she saw her Mummy get soaking wet as a huge fountain of water decided to empty itself all over me! Strangle though, it felt like it was a perfect end to the day.

It is now that I am the gushing Mummy for a minute and I make no apologies for it on this occasion because I am MASSIVELY proud of my little girl!!! Without realising it, James and I decided to go to Thomas Land on the day after a Bank Holiday. Of course, it probably wasn't as busy as if we had gone on the actual Bank holiday but it was still a little crowded. Now, thankfully, Thomas Land has quite a few attractions and therefore queues were not too bad but, by mid-afternoon, one or two queues were half an hour or so. (We had been very lucky in the morning and for the vast majority of the rides). Even though there were children who were much older than Anna who were having tantrums and misbehaving, Anna was truly AMAZING!!! She waited patiently for every ride and listened when we explained that it wouldn't be long but she would have to wait her turn. Her excitement never wavered despite having to wait at times and I honestly could have cried with how much pride I felt for my little girl throughout the whole day. I made sure that I told her numerous times how proud I was of her and that is probably the reason why I left with half the contents of the Thomas The Tank Engine Gift shop!!!!!

So, as we wearily walked back to the car (we were one of the last cars in the car park), we all had huge smiles on our face. Anna was asleep within 2 minutes of sitting in her car seat and she didn't even get to hear the whole of Dancing Queen which is Track 1 of her Abba album. Now that just goes to show what a great day she had!

My Little Cousin, Isla

Last week, Anna met her very first cousin for the very first time.

I actually made the mistake of telling her that we were going to meet Isla later that day, before she had sat down for breakfast and so any chance of her eating her Weetabix (or Rice Krispies, Crumpets, Toast and Scotch Pancakes and numerous other things I tried to tempt her with) was not going to happen.

When we arrived at Ben and Sally's flat, Auntie Sally came out onto their balcony to say Hello and I actually thought Anna would jump high enough to land on the second floor where Sally was stood because she was so excited. I have never seen her fly up the stairs faster than she did as we made our way to the flat.

As Ben opened the front door cradling Isla in his arms, I set eyes on my niece (I am privileged enough to be called Auntie Louise!!!) and, despite being incredibly tiny (Anna honestly has a baby doll that is bigger than Isla), I could also see that she was beautiful! As for Anna... she was suddenly confronted with a real tiny baby and she wasn't so sure. Ben got on his knees so Anna could see Isla up and close and personal and Anna did the polite thing and stood there for a few seconds looking unconvinced before then backing up against the wall and side steping her way to the living room, where Auntie Sally had kindly placed a massive cuddly toy dog (Anna loves the toy dog after meeting him last Christmas. It was a gift from Ben to Sally!!!).

For the next 2 and a half hours, Anna was brave enough to approach Isla once or twice but was sure to keep enough distance in case Isla burst out crying. I did explain on numerous occasions that this was Anna's little cousin and the one that she had been so excited about meeting. I'm not sure what she thought Isla was before metting her but she looked unconvinced when I kept trying to explain this was the Isla we had been talking about!

It must be strange for Anna when someone else is muscling in on your superstar status!! (Don't get me wrong, Anna needs to experience it from time to time!!) I suppose, if I admit it to myself from deep within, I was also imagining what this would have been like if Isla was Anna's baby sister instead of cousin. I suppose I was using it as a measure of how Anna might react if a baby sister or brother did happen to come along (Note to Grandparents: This is not going to be happening anytime soon, if at all. It was only a brief thought!!!!!!!) I couldn't help but feel a little anxious about how Anna might feel. Of course, I was trying to involve Anna as much as possible when James and I held Isla but Anna didn't seem very jealous, just very uninterested (which I found just as much of a worry if a brother or sister did ever appear).

However, everything changed when Mike and Roz came to visit! Now, Mike and Roz are Ben's mum and dad and a huge hit in Anna's eyes. She has met them on 2 or 3 occasions now and Anna has been mesmerised each and every time. I have to say that Ben's parents are fantastic with her. Once they had kissed and said Hello to their granddaughter (who was fast asleep at that time), they instantly came and sat on the rug with Anna and started talking to her about Thomas and Harold and all the other toys that Anna had brought along. Anna was in paradise. (I had been encouraging Anna to show Isla all her toys only minutes earlier and Anna couldn't care less about her toys then!!!). Anna hung on Roz's every word and made sure everyone had heard her by then going to tell every individual person what Roz had just said, before then running back to Roz to hear more wonderful words.

After a while, Isla woke up and was carried from her Moses basket to the living room and, after her Grandad Mike had held her, Roz obviously needed a cuddle. Suddenly, Anna was VERY interested in Isla. Roz carefully explained that Isla was her little cousin and how Isla was very lucky to have such a beautiful cousin like Anna and how Isla would learn lots of things from Anna. All of this had been said by me earlier, which Anna had taken no notice of whatsoever. Suddenly, Anna is now going around the whole room telling everyone that Isla was her little cousin and she was the big cousin and Isla was very lucky etc etc. Everything that Roz had just said!! Even when Anna was busy entertaining Mike with her colouring skills and explaining that she was drawing a lion eating custard (very random!!!), Anna still noticed when Isla started crying and ran over to Roz and Isla and said 'Roz, Roz, my little cousin is crying. I'm her big cousin Roz. I like Isla a lot'.

Anna is now very very proud to have a little cousin called Isla (as long as Roz is there too!!!!)
A photograph of gorgeous baby Isla, with the little cuddly toy, called 'Patch', that her Uncle James took to hospital for her. Patch actually isn't very big at all but just shows how tiny Isla is. Small but Perfect!