Saturday
Today we took a trip to Brightlingsea on the recommendation of Nigel's sister. It was great for the children as there was a toddler's paddling pool, fed by the tide. It was just like a mini beach and perfect for the children. We never had to worry about them getting out of their depth or knocked over by waves. It was quite breezy and chilly so we didn't stay long but have promised the children we'll go back again when it's warmer. Nearby were a small cafe, play area, toilet block and car park, outdoor swimming pool and a boating lake. Plenty for everyone. After a picnic lunch and ice-cream we went on the boating lake. I'm a rather over-protective and neurotic mother and had always said I wouldn't allow the children to go on a boat until they were confident swimmers but it was a shallow lake and we were both with them and I just have to learn that it's not good for Molly & Charlie to be permanently wrapped in cotton wool! The children wore life jackets and we were briefed on what to do should the boat overturn. It took Nigel a few minutes to get to grips with rowing but soon we were off and the children loved being on the boat. We spent half an hour around the lake and the children were sad to stop but I'd had enough. My nerves were a little frazzled by then!!!

We travelled home then had a spontaneous barbecue with family. It was a lovely end to another good day.

Sunday
It was Family Fun Day at Great Yarmouth Racecourse today so we thought the children would like to go to the races, particularly as they both love horses. It was my first time as well and we all had a great day. Although it was billed as a family day there wasn't a huge amount on extra for the children and a lot of it hadn't opened/started until an hour or so after the gates opened. We got a space by the finishing post and pretty much stayed there until the races started as we knew it would be difficult for the children to see the race as there were so many people.

We each chose a horse for Nigel to place a bet on and Charlie chose the first two winners. Nigel won once. After 3 races there was a children's race on the course and Molly took part. She got a little upset as it was busy and disorganised and she wasn't too sure of where she was meant to be so I ended up running with her!!

We left just before 5pm as the children were getting tired but they'd both really enjoyed the day, so had Nigel and I. We can't wait to go again.