Grand, historical, dynamic, eclectic, buzzing, modern, welcoming and utterly intriguing. After nearly 4 years, living in London with kids, I simply have to admit I absolutely adore this Urban Jungle of creativeness and madness where there’s room for individuals, where everyone mind their own business but still sincerely care.
Yes I’m in love! Of course I do miss the Nordic nature, but hey! No one’s perfect, right?! Happy Valentine!
Little A is wearing a thermal set from Isbjorn of Sweden underneath her School uniform today. The set is made of SportWool, which is a mix of wool and polyester with a small adding of elastan. The material keeps the child warm when it is cold and effectively transports moist from the skin and out of the garment. So 3 layers today; thermals, school uniform and padded coat. The thermal set is available in red or green in size 86/92, 98/104, 110/116, 122/128 and 134/140 cl. Think Huggle in London might have a few sets still in store.
When arriving at school they all line up before walking in. Today I followed the class to give Little A her lunchbag. I heard lots of giggling as the class had turned the corner and curiously went after to see what was going on. Then realising the teacher pretending it was still snowing by brushing down snow onto the kids when they entered the building. All the kids were laughing with excitement. Wish I was 7 year again and having a teacher like that!
Here’s a few snap shots (iPhone/Instagram) en route to school this am. Happy Frosty Friday -and stay warm!
This morning I went for brunch with the lovely girls from UrbanMumsLondon and BabyccinoKids in Maida Vale, a true hidden gem next to Little Venice and the Regents Canal in the City of Westminster. And it was amazing to see one single street filled with charming independent shops on both sides, everything from children’s fashion boutique, antiques, hairdresser, floral shop, gift boutiques to pastry store, organic butcher and a independent wine shop. With a local high street like this there is no reason to go anywhere else for your Christmas shopping! How will you be doing your Christmas shopping this year? Online, locally or in shopping districts and shopping centres?
Below is a few window find from Maida Vale that I simply need to go back for, after 10am when all the shops opens!
© Little Scandinavian the shoes are from the Handmade in London Children’s footwear brand, Vevian
What and where: CHASE & SORENSEN are East London based shop and enthusiasts of 20th century modern furniture and home decor, mainly from Scandinavia. Visit this hidden gem at 238-B Dalston Lane, E8 1LQ. In addition to design furniture there’s also a coffee bar with the very best coffee, a selection of healthy Scandinavian sandwiches and the most delicious Nordic treats. A visit is highly recommended -we’ll for sure be popping in during the next days.
Open: Monday to Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm or viewings by appointment.
How to get there: Local transport links include the Hackney Central, Hackney Downs and Dalston Lane overground stations. The 30, 38, 48, 55, 56, 242, D6 buses also run nearby.
We do enjoy the hustle and bustle of the big city. London is quite a extraordinary city being a large capital, a finance centre with such a diversity and cosmopolitan feel. Yet it can be such a beautiful and quiet place.
Stop and think, look and feel, smell and listen. It’s all about the details. Discover the beauty of leafy London.
Happy Sunday!
This years Danish Christmas Bazaar in London will take place on Sunday 28th November from 12 – 16
There will be great Danish Christmas extravaganza with gløgg, æbleskiver, Christmas decorations and lots more.
Admission £1
Address: 43 Maresfield Gardens, Hampstead, London NW3 5TF
Each year since 1947, a Christmas tree has been given to the people of London from the people of Norway’s capital Oslo, in gratitude for Britain’s support for Norway during Second World War and is perhaps the most important symbol of Britain and Norway’s warm relationship.
The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is usually a Norwegian spruce (Picea abies) over 20 metres high and 50-60 years old. It is selected from the forests surrounding Oslo with great care several months, even years, in advance. The tree is felled in November and then brought to the UK by sea. It is decorated in traditional Norwegian style, with vertical strings of lights. Energy-efficient light bulbs are used.
The Christmas tree remains in Trafalgar Square until just before the Twelfth Night of Christmas, when it is taken down for recycling.
For many Londoners the lightning ceremony of the Norwegian Christmas tree and the carol singing in Trafalgar Square signal the countdown to Christmas. It’s a lovely Christmas event for the whole family.
The Norwegian Christmas tree will be lit on 2d of December with thousands of people expected to watch the annual ceremony. We will be there -will you?
Photo: Innovasjon Norge
The Norwegian Church is based in St Olav’s Square, South East London. One of the church’s most popular events is the yearly Christmas Fair that takes place the third weekend in November every year. It is a great chance to stock up on all your favourite Norwegian Christmas delights and decoration.
Opening times: Friday 19/11 11-6pm
Saturday 20/11 10-5pm – Sunday 21/11 12:30-5pm
Entrance fee: £1 per person.
To find out more visit www.sjomannskirken.no
Beatrice is turning 9 during half term and we were thinking of celebrating her big day the following weekend, but were quite unsure about what she wanted to do.
This morning, there was a real chill in the air, and it’s suddenly came to us; ice skating! We went online and to our luck we discovered that some ice rinks opens already Friday the 5th of November!
See more information about London’s ice rinks here:
www.viewlondon.co.uk
One of our favourite things to do when the weather turns crisp-cold is to head out to one of London’s fantastic ice rinks. We’re not the greatest skaters in the world, but practice makes perfect! And as Beatrice loves ice skating what could be a better venue for her party than one of London’s ice rinks “by night”?
Photo: blog.visitlondon.com
visiting Natural History Museum in London last Friday
Our very own Little Scandinavian with her explorer backpack (for under 7 and free of charge), enjoying the Mammals gallery.
The Museum offers a range of fun and engaging activities designed to appeal to and include all members of the family.
With gallery trails, puppet shows, specimen handling and art activities, there is something for visitors of all ages and interests.
Well worth a visit -many times!
