university, Holly (her son Rafferty and his sister Naomi - known as 'Omi'), over near Blackpool. We went early on Monday so we would have the whole 
day to enjoy. The weather was pretty good so after exploring their house we headed to the beach in Cleveleys for a picnic and paddle.You will be amazed to know that Toby did not fall in though given the chance he would have happily wandered in up to
his neck. There are no photos of him in the sea as I was taking the photos and I had tight hold of his hand anytime he was in/close to the water. Naomi, was fantastic with the kids and had them entertained with drawing in the sand, paddling and all 
sorts of games. Beth just loved her and I think has ideas of getting an older sister . . .Back at the house lots of fun was had by Beth dressing up in Omi's bridesmaid dress along with Holly's sparkly shoes and anything else that took her fancy (I'll really have to
reinforce my teachings about not rooting through other people's cupboards!). Toby and Raf had a great time climbing/jumping/falling in and out of the travel cot. I thought it was the best place for Toby to sleep not realising how easy it would be for him to get in and out. Oh well, worth a try.
On Wednesday we took the plunge and headed into Blackpool, via the tram (photo is us waiting at the tram stop), and go to the tower. It was pretty busy
but once we negotiated the queue the kids loved exploring. First stop was the aquarium where the big attraction was the enormous fish (I can't remember what they were). After lunch we went to watch the circus (no animals) and sat right up at the back. It was pretty impressive and although the kids enjoyed it, they didn't find it hugely amazing as many of the tricks were ones involving height (four acrobats on each other shoulders, etc.) and as we were high up, they didn't look towering.To finish off our visit we decided to take the lift up to the top of
the tower. The views were pretty good as it was quite clear. On the way up we had our pic taken by the 'photo lady,' it then had a background added. Quite 
cheesy but we thought it was quite a nice one and a good memory of the day. At the top you can walk up another couple of staircases to go a bit higher. I took Beth but it was rather windy and you couldn't see so well. I didn't take Toby - he's just started with the new trick of running away at every and any opportunity and is rather hard work. He escaped while at the top and after racing after him, we found him in the lift ready to go back to the bottom!
Wednesday was our last day; we headed home at bedtime but before then we had another lovely day. In the morning we met Raf's grandparents at a coffee morning in aid of his playgroup. I'm still not entirely sure if the OAPs were looking in amusement or horror at
the three kids charging round causing chaos. I'll go with amusement. :) The afternoon was spent in Lytham, a 'traditional coastal village' just south of Blackpool. We had lunch in the cafe in Lowther Gardens, a really cool park with beautiful flowers, a playarea and trees perfect for climbing and hiding around. After lunch and a play we wandered down the beach towards the centre of Lytham and the windmill.We had a fab few days catching up and enjoying good company and even without the constant badgering of Beth wanting to see Omi, now that we know it's only a couple of hours drive, we'll be heading back there soon. :)
