A Daytrip to Beeston Castle @EnglishHeritage

I had been meaning to visit Beeston Castle for a long time. It is only about a half-hour drive from home, and yet we never quite found time to stop on our travels.

Finally, we had a free Bank Holiday Monday, and we went for it, making the most of our English Heritage membership card. My girls were very excited to visit a medieval castle, since they love tales of princesses and knights, and they recently discovered the fun of playing with pretend swords and crossbows. Well, who am I to deny them their warrior heritage?!

#MummyMonday Family Day Trip at English Heritage Beeston Castle in Cheshire with SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#MummyMonday Family Day Trip at English Heritage Beeston Castle

A Daytrip to Beeston Castle

It took a while for us to leave the house since I was on my own while their dad was at work. We reluctantly left the dog at home, even though it had turned into a beautiful sunny afternoon. I simply couldn’t fathom managing an excited Staffie X with a preschool child and an adventurous six-year-old by myself. We will take him with us next time, when my husband is at home. I was pleased to see that Beeston Castle is dog friendly, which is always important for our family outings.

I expected to find some sort of May Day activity at Beeston Castle, but I hadn’t checked specifically what was on. We soon discovered a local church fete and a dog show from the K9 2000 team, whom I had never previously heard about. They were very impressive, and very entertaining, and now my elder daughter fancies her chances at training our dog to do some of those display stunts. I very much doubt that will happen!

A steep climb up the hillside

We ventured up the steep hillside climb to explore the old castle building. My younger daughter was a little tired at this point, having just had a massive tantrum when I tried to make her walk for a bit after we queued for 45 minutes for them to have their faces painted. Not to be deterred, I alternated between carrying her, and coaxing her, while my elder daughter raced on ahead and shouted encouragingly to her sister. It was worth the stress, because the view from the top is incredible. We didn’t explore fully because of our tired, grumpy pre-schooler, but we saw enough to satisfy the senses, and I really cannot wait to return.

In fact, we saw a poster advertising the next English Heritage event at Beeston Castle on the weekend of the 28th– 29th May. There will be jousting and knights on horseback, so I have to take my girls for that. Perhaps we will see you there?

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Spring Cleaning for the Soul

Last week I spoke about my lessons from Mercury Retrograde and the collection of planets that may be affecting our lives down here on Earth.

While we are still in retrograde for a week or so, and most witches would advise against starting new projects during this time, my life is about to leap into a brand-new phase.

#MummyMonday My Victorian Home by Catherine Green of SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
#MummyMonday My Victorian Home

Spring Cleaning for the Soul

Drum roll please… My husband and I have decided to sell our home and move on up the property ladder. Aagghh! Are we insane?! Probably. Definitely. But we must do this. We have lived very happily in our 2-bed Victorian terraced house for ten years now. The house has witnessed many special events, both good and bad. Our memories are etched into the bricks, and our energy will linger for a long time. It mingles with the souls of past inhabitants, some of whom I have previously communicated with during my ghost séances.

This has not been a fast decision. We have pondered and searched the local housing market for a couple of years. We have considered the possibility for extending our home. We decided that now we would like a bit more outside space, and a few more rooms to play with. I dream of a reiki retreat. My daughters need a bedroom of their own as they grow. My husband craves a man cave (garage). Wish us luck on this new adventure!

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LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

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My Spiritual Journey: Learning about Mercury Retrograde

I have never really taken time to study astrology, natal charts, and all that weird and wonderful stuff where we learn how the planets affect out movements down here on Earth. I have a vague notion that it is important and that I should take notice, but now is not the time. Of course, our magical guides and teachers always make their intentions clear eventually.

All I know is that right now, my world is in a state of chaos. I cannot go into detail for legal reasons, but events occurring will have lasting effects. I trust in the Great Mystery to keep myself and my loved ones safe and secure, and we will accept whatever happens. But why is this happening now? I wonder if it is connected to the astrological plane.

#WitchyWednesday Lake and Stormy Sky with SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#WitchyWednesday Lake and Stormy Sky

Learning about Mercury Retrograde

Five planets are currently in retrograde, or have recently been retrograde, and are now straightening out. In simple terms, I deduce that it means they are moving backwards slightly, or are stalling on their gravitational cycle. I’m not a scientist or an astrologer, so I don’t know the specifics. I am aware that this is a rare occurrence. I also received a message in a blog post I read. Now is the time to refresh, renew, and revise. Part of that process involves a good spring clean in my home, and a rethink about my situation, my involvement in current events, and many other activities. I accept the lessons, and may we all step forward into a new, happier, more peaceful life when the planets realign again.

Can anybody offer more advice or insight into the retrograde cycles? I would love to learn more!

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LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

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Easter Holiday in Review

We have reached the end of the school Easter holiday, and what a long one it has been. I had dreamed of taking some time to rest and recuperate while we were off school. No such luck!

From hyperactive children, to demanding pets, to family drama, I now feel more exhausted than I did two weeks’ ago. But all is not lost. I have the prospect of a spa weekend with my mum friends coming up very soon… can’t wait!

Vampire writer Catherine Green at Dunham Massey in Cheshire, UK at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
Vampire writer Catherine Green at Dunham Massey in Cheshire, UK

Easter Holiday in Review

How was your Easter holiday? Perhaps your children are off this week as some of my friends are. Have fun, and be kind to each other. I have learned some valuable lessons about human nature during the past few weeks, and my eyes have been well and truly opened to attitudes in the wider world. Suffice to say, I will be blogging about my experiences in due time, once I have made a few more investigations and spoken to people in similar situations.

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LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

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#LEGONinjagoMCR Family Fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester

My family and I were very excited when we received an invitation to visit the newly refurbished LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Manchester. We visited last summer and had lots of fun, but I must admit it was looking a little drab. Now it is all shiny and new!

The girls love LEGO, as do my husband and I. We recently discovered the joys of the DC Superheroes High LEGO range, when my elder daughter developed a fascination with Wonder Woman.

LEGOLAND Discovery Manchester Review

Inside the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre I was pleased to see that the LEGO brick building machine is still in place. I love that feature, because it brings back nostalgic memories of childhood days spent playing with my favourite toy. We walked into the model city room, where both my daughters gasped in amazement and didn’t know where to look first. They literally ran off in different directions, shouting at me and my husband to “Come and look at this!”

Again, the LEGO landscapes, cities and features are a brilliant instalment, and I was pleased to see some new models in amongst the old favourites. My favourite was Blackpool. There was a lot of detail, and I stood for a good ten minutes or so, exploring the miniature LEGO world that had been created. I chuckled when I saw the Ninjago ninjas climbing Blackpool Tower!

Eventually, we found ourselves in the main LEGOLAND Discovery centre, and the brand new #LEGONinjagoMCR soft play area. We tried out one of the rides, but my younger daughter couldn’t go on all of them because she is 3, and she was a little upset that she couldn’t go on the police chase ride. She soon cheered up when we entered the Master Builder room for a demonstration, and we had a great time constructing a LEGO polar bear, which we then brought home to play with.

Pools full of LEGO

Both my girls absolutely loved the huge LEGO pools that are dotted around inside LEGOLAND Discovery. They did a lot of building, and I think my husband enjoyed himself as well, especially when he and our elder daughter spent some time building LEGO cars and trucks, and racing them up and down the specially designed ramps and roads. They could have stayed there all night!

Our elder daughter disappeared into the brand new Ninjago soft play area for a while, and she came out laughing and giggling with delight. Apparently, it is a wonderful place to explore, but my younger daughter was a little tired at that point and declined an offer to play. I asked my daughter what her favourite part of LEGOLAND Discovery was, and she said she loved the monkey bars inside the Ninjago soft play area. After the soft play, we decided to catch a movie in the 4D cinema, and this was our introduction to NEXO Knights. There is another LEGO collection for us to build, as I especially enjoyed the movie.

I did manage to explore the new, improved LEGO café while we were at LEGOLAND Discovery. It is much better than the previous outlet, because there is a now a proper café space as opposed to a few benches. I prefer the refurbished layout, it feels more spacious and less claustrophobic than on our first visit. The children had a little playtime in the DUPLO toddler corner, and eventually it was time to go home.

Fabulous family venue

In closing, I can tell you that #LEGONinjagoMCR is a fabulous family venue. There is a lot to do, plenty of activities, and of course, all of that beautiful LEGO to play with. It is a perfect opportunity to tire the children out during a long school holiday, and the price is very reasonable, I think. You definitely get your moneys’ worth. The target age range is 3-12, but let me tell you, our big kid (Daddy) had just as much fun as the children, if not more!

#MummyMonday Family Trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Manchester reviewed by SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#MummyMonday Family Trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Manchester

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#365DaysofTarot Ostara and Rebirth

There are lots of happenings in my personal circles at present. Some are rather exciting (and stressful), others are a challenge, and the rest is simply the daily cycle of family life and humans being.

Since I haven’t shared a #365DaysofTarot reading in a while, here it is for you. This one has a strong hint of Ostara and Spring blessings, and is a useful reminder that we are all in the process of rebirth, however it chooses to present itself to the individual.

Image of Tarot cards from the Druid Craft Tarot card deck for #365daysoftarot challenge on SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
#365DaysofTarot with DruidCraft Tarot Deck

#365DaysofTarot Tarot Card Reading

Prince of Swords – He is young and impulsive, flinging his weight into the arena with ferocious intent. This guy means business, and you may get swept along in the excitement.

Rebirth – New beginnings. How appropriate! You have heard the call, and now you emerge from the gloomy exile, having immersed yourself in darkness and quiet contemplation. Embrace your new life, and new adventures.

Ace of Pentacles – Your ancestors wish to bestow gifts upon you. Welcome their assistance with a humble heart and loving grace. Your time is now.

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Druid Craft Tarot Reading by professional Tarot reader Catherine Green

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My Spiritual Journey and the #AtoZChallenge

It is almost time for the April #AtoZChallenge, and this is the first time in about 4 years that I won’t be actively participating. I decided to scale back some of my online activity and try to work smarter, because I was burning myself out with the desperate need to be writing and interacting. It’s too much!

I do love these blog hops and challenges, but in moderation. Besides, I have a whole collection of old posts on both of my blog websites, and I would like to see people reading and responding to them.

April A-Z Blogging Challenge Survivor SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
April A-Z Blogging Challenge Survivor

My Spiritual Journey and the #AtoZChallenge

I used the #AtoZChallenge to talk about my personal journey last year. Becoming a mother has changed me in so many ways that I cannot begin to describe. One of the main changes has been my increased self-confidence and determination. While I was pregnant and having babies (only 2, so far!), I was on a spiritual journey. I met people that practice shamanism, witchcraft, reiki energy healing and a whole lot more. I found my tribe, my kindred spirits, and people that helped me to make sense of the emotions I felt.

Last weekend I met some new people at our local Scribe festival, and I found myself cheerfully telling them that I am a witch. They were fascinated. I think they were also a little spooked, but nowadays I don’t really care. I am what I am, and it’s about time I embraced myself in all the awkward, quirky, spooky glory that I feel. My children deserve a mother who is confident and self-assured. I am their role model, after all. Enjoy the #AtoZChallenge, my friends!

Photo of Paranormal Author Catherine Green with her published books at Middlewich Folk and Boat Festival
Paranormal Author Catherine Green at FAB Festival

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#Book Review: Maternity Leavers by Soozi Baggs

I recently received a copy of Maternity Leavers from the author with a request to read and review it.

This book would have been very useful to me about six years ago, when I was pregnant with my first child and still trying to establish a career. Back then I had floated from one entry level administration job to another following my graduation from university. My glamorous career in broadcast journalism never came to fruition, although I eventually realised that it was not my forte.

#BookReview Maternity Leavers by Soozi Baggs reviewed by Catherine Green for SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#BookReview Maternity Leavers by Soozi Baggs

#Book Review: Maternity Leavers by Soozi Baggs

Anyway, Maternity Leavers – What to do about work now you’re a Mum, is a quick, informative guide for parents who are trying to juggle their lives around young children. You don’t necessarily have to be pregnant or planning a family to gain value from this book. I still found it very useful at my current stage, where I am slowly building a freelancing career as a writer on my own terms. I also feel a sort of kinship with the author, Soozi Baggs, although I had never spoken to her before receiving this book.

Maternity Leavers offers up suggestions for all prospects when you have a baby or small children to consider. It covers advice about the practicalities of returning to your previous job, or starting a new one, with guidance about flexible work and shared parental leave. It talks about how to set yourself up as self-employed, and the various business models that you could try. And finally, it suggests other ways to occupy your time that are not necessarily geared towards earning money. Soozi is very keen to reassure us that the parental journey is unique for everyone. She reminds us that our self-worth is not measured in cold, hard cash. We can choose to stay at home and nurture our children, or we can take on additional academic or practical studies. Or we could do voluntary work, if it fulfils us and makes us happy.

My overall review of the book

My overall review about Maternity Leavers – What to do about work now you’re a Mum, is a good one. I enjoyed reading the book. The language is casual and friendly, and the chapters are short so you can read it around your baby/toddler/puppy etc. There are additional resources in the back for further investigation, and you can visit the Maternity Leavers website for more details. The book is available in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon.

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LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

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My Spiritual Journey: Reiki and Eye Surgery

Last weekend I attended Manchester Royal Eye Hospital for a minor operation on my eyes. Well, I thought it would be both eyes, but the condition decided otherwise.

Now I am to be allocated a return appointment to have my left eye zapped when the eyelashes have grown sufficiently in the right (or wrong) direction. Confused? You will be!

NHS Hospitals Manchester Royal Eye Hospital visited by Catherine Green at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
NHS Hospitals Manchester Royal Eye Hospital

My Spiritual Journey: Reiki and Eye Surgery

I have a congenital disorder called Lymphedema Distichiasis. It means that I have a double row of eyelashes, and the second row turn inwards, scratching my eyes and causing a lot of pain and discomfort. It was diagnosed when I was a small child, and since then I have had many treatments to try and alleviate the condition. It cannot be cured at present. I also developed acute Dry Eye Syndrome as I got older, because of the nature of my inherited disorder.

The minor operation was electrolysis to remove ingrowing eyelashes. It involved the injection of local anaesthetic into my upper and lower eyelids, and then a precision laser tool burned away the offending eyelashes at the root. They will grow back again, but hopefully it will take a while. My last session of electrolysis was in 2013, so it seems to be settling a little.

Focus on being calm and relaxed

As I lay down on the hospital bed in the operating theatre, I focused on remaining calm and relaxed. I have had this procedure what feels like a million times, I am familiar with the surgical staff, it is routine medical process in this hospital. But I still felt nervous, because I knew that the anaesthetic injection would be painful. As the nurse practitioner inserted the needle into my eyelid, I felt a rush of energy near my head, and I sensed my spirit guide placing her hands on my skull. She whispered soothing words, assured me that she would ease my discomfort, and suddenly everything faded into peace. I was safe. My reiki healing energy would assist. Now, only days after the procedure, I feel like nothing has happened. There is a slight bruise on my eyelid, but I have had none of the usual post-operative pain, swelling, dizziness etc. Thank you, Reiki healing!

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LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

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Why Won’t My Child Potty Train?

I am beginning to feel very anxious and more than a little stressed about the fact that my younger daughter refuses to potty train. I have been trying to persuade her for around eighteen months now, to no avail.

She will be four in August and starts primary school in September, so I really need to get this sorted. Help!

Image of a Minnie Mouse potty toilet seat, a white potty, a pink potty training toilet seat, a green animal pattern potty training toilet seat, a bottle of Domestos bleach for bathroom hygiene. #MummyMonday Potty Training Challenge #BrightFuture Persil Unilever Promotion at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#MummyMonday Potty Training Challenge

Why Won’t My Child Potty Train?

There might be a psychological block with her. When she was a baby, she struggled to empty her bowels. I even had her sitting on a potty at less than a year old, simply to try and ease the pressure because she became so distraught and it was so painful for her. We visited the doctor, did some tests, but they put it down to growing pains. There is no official diagnosis for her problem, but now it is impacting on her development.

She knows what to do. She watches her friends use the toilet and the potty quite happily. She wears knickers, training pants and pull-ups (which I really detest because of the waste factor), but nothing works. I try leaving her half naked in the house, but if I try and put her anywhere near a toilet or potty, she screams and contorts her body. She has done her business on the potty before now, and she has sat willingly on the toilet, but it is sporadic and I cannot seem to take that step forward.

What am I doing wrong? Does anyone have advice or a story to share about potty training their older child?

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My Little Lammas Child SpookyMrsGreen

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