Birthday celebrations - night off, Sealife Centre and Spa Day

It was my birthday on Tuesday and the first since becoming a mummy. How things have changed since last year!

We decided to take the in-laws up on their offer to babysit and Ethan went to stay at Nanny and Grandad's for the first time on Saturday whilst we headed to Brindley Place for some drinks in the sunshine followed by Thai food and more drinks. I was really looking forward to my first night off and to catching up with our best friends who had travelled down from Yorkshire especially. But when it came time to say goodbye to Ethan, I felt a little lost and really sad to be leaving him.

However, we had a really good night and it was just what we needed. I guess all parents need a break and should take the opportunity, however brief, when they can to do something for themselves or simply catch up on some sleep.

On my birthday, we headed out for some lunch at Handmade Burger Co. alongside the canal followed by a visit to the Sealife Centre to find Nemo and Dori. 

It was a tad expensive even though we had a two for one voucher but that didn't impact on our visit. There were lots of different things to see and the centre was really well designed and full of informative displays. We can't wait until Ethan is old enough to appreciate everything. We had to buy the little bodysuit before for him plus a cuddly turtle - he pulls this funny face where he looks like a turtle coming out of its shell which we find hilarious, so had to buy this for him!

Then on Thursday, my boys treated me to an afternoon off. I had a spa treatment package at Bannatyne's Brindley Place waiting for me, consisting of a full body massage and facial for two hours. Bliss! From the therapeutic music, dimmed lights and soft towels to the scented oils and relaxing massage, I really enjoyed every minute of me time. It reminded me that I need to make a little more time for me, just a couple of minutes every day, so I can unwind, de-stress and be the bet mummy I can be. I've visited a dermatologist recently to get treatment for my psoriasis and I need to be vigilant and actually use the special lotions and potions so I can get things under control and feel better all round. So, I AM going to squeeze in a few extra minutes each day to take care of myself.

I had a great birthday thanks to my hubs and my son, one that I won't forget.