About Jacqui & her Blog
Jacqui is a winner of Top 25 European Moms - 2012
What's the best part about raising a family in the European Union?
I was born and raised in New Zealand, so the best part for me is being so central to the rest of the world. From our home, just outside London, we can be in Paris, or Barcelona, or Croatia in just a few hours.
I love that my children are growing up in a diverse, sophisticated country, and will be exposed to so many different cultures and experiences as they grow up.
I also love the rich history of Europe; you can go for afternoon tea in a hotel that's older than New Zealand itself! That still blows my mind, even after living here for 12 years!
What's a great destination for a family vacation in Europe?
European countries are renowned for putting family first. Italy, Greece, Spain; they're all so family focused, which makes holidaying with your little ones a genuine pleasure.
Here in the UK, Cornwall is brilliant for kids. You have beaches, and moors, and valleys, and even the old ruins of (supposedly) King Arthur's Castle. It's so peaceful, and scenic, and you really feel like you're getting away from everything.
What's the biggest misconception people have about raising a family in the European Union?
Well, the biggest misconception I had before moving here was that the UK was always a very grey, cold place to bring up a family. I couldn't have been more wrong! London and the surrounding counties are incredibly green, filled with parks, and reserves and stunning landscapes.
Sure, the weather can be a miserable at times, but nothing beats a crisp English Autumn day, when the skies are clear and blue, and the trees are ablaze with red, orange and yellow leaves. Taking a walk through the nearby woods is one of our favourite family pastimes.
What are your favorite Blog Posts?
Jacqui's Answers
Have you seen any cute kids' rainboots or umbrellas for sale this fall? Please share a link!
This year I'm actually praying for rain in the UK, and LOTS of it!
My four-year-old, Big Sis, has been lucky enough to try two great pairs of Wellies (Rainboots) this Autumn/Fall. You can read what we thought of them here:
http://www.mummyslittlemonkey.com/2012/10/splish-splash-splat-kids-rain-boot.html
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What's the most awkward or funny thing that has ever happened at one of your family's holiday gatherings?
We had met up with a bunch of my hubby's distant family when one of his second cousins pulled out a photo album and began pointing out the different family members.
'Wow, look at the state of them!' OH laughed, pointing at one couple. 'I hope I'm not related to them!'
'That's my parents,' the man replied.
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You know you're a mom when... (please fill in the blank!) and link to a picture if it's relevant.
Your pockets are filled with toy figurines, used wipes, and cheese sticks
Your turn around every time someone calls 'Muuuuuuuuuum!'
You call dogs 'Woof-Woofs'
You have one really strong arm, from carrying your child
You talk slightly too loudly
Your favourite words are: 'Stop!' 'No!' and 'Hurry Up!'
You have a laundry pile as tall as your child
You find it normal to say things like: 'Stop chewing your sister' and 'Why are you naked AGAIN?'
You'd rather have a cuddle, than a night out.
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Are your kids hooked on a toy, clothing item, or style trend that makes you crazy? If so, tell us why and share a picture!
My youngest is currently obsessed with a zebra-print sun dress and wears it EVERYWHERE!!!! She puts it on over her clothes, and every time I manage to coax her out of it, I turn around 10 minutes later to find her back in it again! She wears it wet, straight from the washing machine, inside out, and even puts it on over her pyjamas and sleeps in it.
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