Plutonium Sox

Our Thursday Photos

Thursday photo #280

Thursday photo #280

Is there some unwritten rule of the space-time continuum stating that time always speeds up at the start of a school term? It seems like ages ago that the children went back. Now, their after school clubs are fully underway. I’ve finally got some time to myself again and my thoughts have already turned to half term. September sunshine I’m sure that September surprises me for the same reason every year. As autumn approaches, I always expect it to be cold. And it never is. Leaves are turning red, the nights are drawing in. I see shiny brown conkers on…

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What's on West Midlands

Best October half term and Halloween events West Midlands

Best October half term and Halloween events West Midlands

Creepy crawlies, ghouls and ghosts are making their way around the West Midlands this Autumn. Halloween and half term combine to bring you a plethora of family days out in the region. Many events are suitable for children of all ages but there are a few aimed at adults too. For more things to do in the area, from family or dog friendly attractions to ideas for a rainy day, head to my comprehensive days out guide. Herefordshire Shropshire Staffordshire Warwickshire West Midlands (County) Worcestershire Things to do in Herefordshire October half term and Halloween Berrington Hall National Trust Discover the…

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Lifestyle

Why haven’t you taught me swear words?

Why haven’t you taught me swear words?

The question caught me off guard. “Mum, why haven’t you taught me any swear words?” My first thought was self-congratulatory. I’m not adverse to the odd swear word here and there, so raising a child to seven years old without teaching her a single one is somewhat noteworthy. My next thought was why on earth did she think I should be teaching her swear words. So I asked her, “Why would I?” Her answer was so logical that it made me wonder if I’ve been getting it all wrong. “I know swear words are bad, so how do I avoid…

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Our Thursday Photos

Thursday photo #279

Thursday photo #279

Isn’t it funny how the school holidays seem like such a long time ago? The girls only went back to school last Wednesday but we’re already back into our usual routine. I’m slowly catching up with work and everything seems a little easier. But that doesn’t stop us all from looking forward to half term. New challenges Every year, I tend to sign up for a challenge of some description. I’m terribly bad at motivating myself to exercise and the thought of failing to finish an event usually persuades me to do at least some training. Over the past few…

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Outdoor swimming

Holiday ideas for water sports addicts

Holiday ideas for water sports addicts

Water sports are a bit like marmite. You either love them, or you hate them. And if you love them, they become all-consuming. Fondness for sailing turns quickly to a love of the sea. Appreciation of the tranquility of paddle boarding can quickly turn to a desire to dive in, and a lifetime yearning for wild swimming develops. Before you know it, you’re researching water sports holidays and buying kit to see you through the next season of getting out on the water. Sailing Sailing holidays are perhaps the ultimate water sports getaway. With a yacht charter you’re free to…

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Reviews

The Entertainer at Malvern Theatres: Review

The Entertainer at Malvern Theatres: Review

Since its premier in 1957, the Entertainer has become an iconic play. Now set in 1982 with a backdrop of the Falklands war, Archie Rice finds his showbiz career going down the pan. His profession is outdated. His best jokes are no longer considered funny. So where does he go from here? The brand new version of John Osbourne’s The Entertainer is showing at Malvern Theatres until Saturday, 14th September starring Shane Richie as Archie. About The Entertainer If I had to describe The Entertainer in one word, I’d choose the word ‘bleak’. Set between a theatre stage and the…

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Reviews

A dog friendly family weekend at the Sunshine Festival (review)

A dog friendly family weekend at the Sunshine Festival (review)

Glorious weather during the August bank holiday weekend made sure the Sunshine Festival lived up to its name. Not only is this Worcestershire festival great for families with a packed agenda for children, but it’s dog friendly too. A varied lineup included everything from popular bands like Scouting for Girls to local legends like the Worcester Ukulele Club. Sunshine festival: the music The sunshine festival lineup tends to be bands that most of us remember dancing to a good few years ago. My favourite this year was Scouting for Girls. Other acts on the main stage included 10CC, Showaddywaddy, Boyzlife…

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