CarryOllie Slings

CarryOllie Slings Babywearing Peer Supporter, trained by Carrying Matters in September 2024. Fully insured.

Volunteer at Togetherworks Caldicot running a FREE Babywearing Peer Support group every 1st Thursday of the month from 11.30am to 12.30pm.

This. ❤️
24/06/2026

This. ❤️

If you are looking for something to do tomorrow there is a motor event at the Aerospace that might be worth considering....
20/06/2026

If you are looking for something to do tomorrow there is a motor event at the Aerospace that might be worth considering. The boys loved it - but they are huge fans of the Concorde, and anything on wheels! I did mentioned before, we buy tickets every year and easily visit once very couple of months. And, without fail, we enter the Concorde again. ✈️🚌🚍

D flipped when I told him I met the guy that invented the products that covered the Concorde while the pavillion was built around it. Yup, I did. Twice now, and I invited him to hospital just last Tuesday, because that same product has applications in Nuclear Medicine too. Small world! And such a nice, lovely person too! I didn't realise he did it until this week so that was a fun fact to learn! Read more here: https://packexe.co.uk/packexe-wrapped-concorde/

Anyway, I took the Onbu out again because I haven't been feeling very well lately, and the more I use it, the more I want one. I did feel A weight (almost 16kg) on my shoulders, as he really wanted to be carried today (go figure!), but that was still a 1000x better than having any pressure on my waist today. I wouldn't have been able to cope otherwise. 🤢

Unfortunetely, I can't carry him on arms anymore, not for long periods. I just don't have the strenght. I struggle with wraps and long straps in general, as I don't seem to ever find the time to master it (besides FWCC and strechies for little babas). I have an issue with fabric on floors, unless it is my own home (and even that is questionable at times, let's be honest!), so outdoors can be problematic for me, especially with 2 children. I wish I could overcome it because I am super jelly of wraps experts out there! 🫣

So.... I guess I am saving up for another carrier. Yes I am. And if you want to buy LennyLamb, I know just the person to help you (not me!)! 🐑🌊

Love,
R.

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Today we are testing a LennyLamb Toddler Onbuhimo, also courtesy of Ruth, from . I have been wanting to try one of these...
17/06/2026

Today we are testing a LennyLamb Toddler Onbuhimo, also courtesy of Ruth, from .

I have been wanting to try one of these for a while, as I struggle sometimes with waistbands, especially if I am on my period or if I am struggling with GI symptoms from stress and/or migraines. As the Onbu is waistless, it is a great easy option for carrying children while pregnant too (which I am not btw!).

My 2yo toddler is pretty much anti-carrying these days but he did like this one, in fact he felt asleep within 5minutes of being up. I transfered him to bed about 15minutes later, with the carrier on top, and he was totally unbothered. And he stayed in bed another hour! There should be some sort of award for that.

I think I would size up for him, but other than that I am quite impressed. I didn't think I would like an Onbu, especially with a heavy toddler, but here we are. I am not sure I would use it for long carries, probably only 20-30minutes at the time, as it does put pressure on my shoulders. But that's how much A would tolerate these days anyway, so we're good! As for popping him up, I feel I need a little more practice, but it was easy enough and he liked it too!

So I may be ordering one of these soon. I am excited to try the LennyLamb PRO version now and to have something that is easy and practical, and works when I am struggling with stomach aches and need to still get housework done. Or grocery shopping. Or you know, just be hands-free a little. I don't ask for much...

Love,
R.

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Those of you that have followed me for a while might already know my boys are OBSESSED with trains. They just can't get ...
15/06/2026

Those of you that have followed me for a while might already know my boys are OBSESSED with trains. They just can't get enough. So last Sunday I decided to take them to Blaenavon Heritage Railway, Furnace Sidings station. We hadn't been yet, and they had a model railway event on, so it was perfect.

We visited the station, the railway and the coffee shop (with an amazing display of cakes by the way). We took a picnic and had lunch outdoors, and enjoyed a steam train ride on Jessie. The boys loved it so much, they could not hide their excitement! D even wanted to race against Jessie bless him! The ride was 50 minutes, and cost 24 pounds.

After the train ride, we went for a walk by the railway until we found the Big Pit National Coal Museum. The entry to the museum is FREE, however you can pay to visit underground. The kids enjoyed exploring the museum, and I will probably take them again once they are a little older.

D is very logical in his view of the world and asks a million questions until he understands everything he is reading, so I felt some themes were a little too intense for him. I am thrilled he can read so well and that he is so genuinely curious, but I would be lying if I didn't say I felt a little taken aback by his accurate processing of information! (You're 5, remember?!)

Lovely Ruth from let me have this Little Frog hybrid on tour, so I decided to take it too. And oh boy I am in trouble. It is absolutely brilliant. I would probably size up for my boys, but it served BOTH so well!

Honestly it was so comfy, yet supportive. The softness reminded me of my Fidella meh dai, which was my favourite carrier for quite some time when A was younger. I remembered I only stopped using it because of the waistband, and the hybrid sorts this problem beautifully.

I did not miss using long straps, but once on, it is perfect. The hood bothered me but is easily removable. And I have a feeling this might be one of those fit all sizes carriers... It just keept on giving. Lovely consultants would have tested this, surely!

Why do I keep doing this to myself....

Repeat to self..... Must. not. buy. another. carrier...... 😱

Love,
R.

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Yesterday we drove 1h to Colliers Adventure Farm. And it was totally worth it! The kids loved it, and I think it is my f...
14/06/2026

Yesterday we drove 1h to Colliers Adventure Farm. And it was totally worth it! The kids loved it, and I think it is my favourite of the kind so far! But do let me know of others as my kiddos love this type of thing, and I desperately need more options 😅

So here you will find a lovely soft play area with a ball pit, slides, sandpit, vehicles and loads of sensory play options suitable for all ages. It is big but not overwhelming, and easier to keep an eye out for both kids when their interest varies. There are also quieter areas which I really liked, and the play area is mostly made of wood which is lovely too.

Outdoors there is a big wooden train, a football pitch, mini tractors (and a big tractor), giant pillows to jump on, an area with wooden houses and musical toys, and huge blocks to create whatever the kids fancy, bumpy slides and so much more. There is also an option to ride around the farm in what looked like a train of tractors but we missed it! 🚜

As far as animals go we saw ponies, horses, goats, lamas, donkeys, sheep, calves, guinea pigs, rabbits, tortoises, etc. The kids loved to feed and pet the animals! Well, A got scared when one of goats took the feeding bag of my hands but other than that, all good!

There are animals to meet both indoors and outdoors, so you can make the most of a rainy day too. And there are interesting facts displayed around as well, which makes the experience even more educational and fun for the whole family. In the barn, there are mini picnic tables with wodden puzzles too.

There is an ice cream / coffee shop outdoors and a lovely restaurant by the soft play area. We took our own food but the coffee was alright and the food looked lovely. For the 3 of us, we paid 29 pounds with the feeding bags. I thought it was quite good for all they have to offer! I will 100% come back!

We booked the 2.30pm slot, next time I will try to be there for 11am (9.30am I think is a bit ambitious for me with both boys but you never know!). When I booked, there were only 4 slots left so definetely book in advance to avoid disappointment!

Ps. Not much babywearing but I took the Isara toddler (discontinued now!).

Love,
R.

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Before and after! ❤️Yessssss I have a lot of carriers. I did not use all of them with my children, but I have inspected ...
04/06/2026

Before and after! ❤️

Yessssss I have a lot of carriers. I did not use all of them with my children, but I have inspected and tested all of them with the stars of the show, Oliver and Olivia! And I love my growing collection! I also take donations if you have any carriers or slings you no longer need please consider donating to CarryOllie Slings! They will help supporting the local community here in Caldicot, Wales! 🤗

Yessssss I do these sessions for FREE. I am a qualified and insured Babywearing Peer Supporter, trained by Carrying Matters, Dr. Rosie Knowles. FoD Slings (run by lovely Nelly!) sponsored my training. I have been doing this since March 2025. I started off with weekly sessions, and then reduced to monthy when I returned to work in July last year. Every 1st Thursday of the month, at TogetherWORKS! Occasionally, I have to cancel a session due to work, always check!

No, I do not offer hires. I wish I could, but I just don't have the time at the moment, with a full-time job as Nuclear Medicine Modality Lead, going through a total service redesign at the moment, and a mum of 2 wonderful boys, 2 and 5 years' old. Maybe one day! It is definitely a long term project, alongside further training in babywearing to support you even more.

No, I am not affiliated with any brands, but I do have favourites, and discount codes! There is only one brand that I can benefit from with you using my code. But I disclose this to you if you do say you would like to purchase that particular carrier, after trying it out in a session with me. Equally, I do not have any partnerships with Babywearing Consultants, but I know quite a few lovely ones, locally and online!

So, in a nutshell, I do have limitations in the library and training, e.g. I may not have experience with the carrier you are looking for... or the training to support your needs (e.g. premmies, or twin carrying!), but I will always be truthful to you and support you the best I can, with a smile and a word of encouragement! Because you are doing great, this is a safe space, and babywearing really is a learning curve!

And I will direct you to the right channels for further support. Always!

Love,
R.

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Today we went to Avon Valley Railway (Bitton station), for the Brick Express experience. We reserved a table in advance,...
30/05/2026

Today we went to Avon Valley Railway (Bitton station), for the Brick Express experience. We reserved a table in advance, but as our carriage was actually empty at the time we travelled, we really felt like VIPs. Jane, one of the GertLug volunteers, even let D play with the motorised Lego trucks!

My kids, especially my eldest, are obsessed with trains AND Legos, so this was the perfect adventure for them. D barely ate as he was so excited with everything, and A was so happy he was jumping up and down (well, trying!)! What a pleasure it was to let them have this little adventure.

We took our picnic to the steam train, and after the ride (about 1h30) we all had some ice cream in the coffee shop (so fresh inside, gotta love AC!). We then visited the 2 tents with Lego sets, and the boys loved the Lego train sets (of course!). We headed to the Cherry Tree playground, which had loads of shade, and finally went for a walk by the railway.

The boys absolutely loved the day. D already asked when we can go again, and of course I already committed to a Teddy Bear picnic in the Summer (Yes, I am weak....!). If you do want to check out Legos though, this event is still open tomorrow, otherwise do have a look at their website for the timetime and special events! 🚂

Despite the hot weather, I was very comfortable backcarrying A in the Little Frog Preschooler linen. Hats, shade and loads of water definitely helped though! It is totally possible to carry in hot weather, but please do dress accordingly and keep safe. Carrying Matters has a lovely poster explaining how to do this - if you need some help, do reach out!

And if you don't feel babywearing is the best option for you and little one, then that is OK too! You can see here how my husband carries our toddler, it works very well for them (and gives mama a break too eheh!) ☀️

Love,
R.

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Little one was a bit too tired from his Little Explorers adventure at Caldicot Castle! If you haven't heard about it, th...
30/05/2026

Little one was a bit too tired from his Little Explorers adventure at Caldicot Castle! If you haven't heard about it, the next one is on the 24th July, and up to 10 kids (suitable from 3 to 7 years old, with an adult).

It is a bug hunt trail in the castle grounds with all equipment provided (you will need to return it, but the same kit is available on Amazon if you really want to have one yourself!). My kids really enjoyed it, and it only cost 2.5 pounds each. You must prebook, and kids will get a certificate and bugs stickers which now live in our car windows.

We went to Aldi afterwards and A felt asleep immediately in the Izmi Aventure (love, love this carrier for so many reasons)! We knew it was nap time but I am so glad we made it anyway, because we got the last outdoors children table, and a outdoors easel! And some bits for our Summer holiday in Algarve too!

They also had other imaginative playing bits that we thought were pretty cool and not overpriced - so keep your eyes peeled when going to Aldi, Little Town collections are really lovely for children and I have not been disappointed so far!

Love,
R.

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Is parenting the hardest thing I've ever done? Yes, it is. But it is also the best thing that ever happened to me, and t...
29/05/2026

Is parenting the hardest thing I've ever done? Yes, it is. But it is also the best thing that ever happened to me, and these two are the joy of my life. I never knew such love, and I struggled, boy did I struggle...

Pregnancy and post partum during Covid-19, a traumatic birth, followed by D being taken away for resus and then NICU stay, then the PPD, all combined with 18 months without seeing my family in Portugal.

Years debating whether I could do this again, I was over the moon when I learned I was expecting our second. I then had a miscarriage at 12 weeks, the day before I was meant to see our baby for the first time.

Followed pregnancy after loss, with denial and anxiety up to the moment A was brought home. I was convinced he would not make it. So, so many tears along the way. Even then, I remember looking at A and tearing up thinking "I am so happy you are here.".

They drive me nuts, they really do. Today I actually had to leave the living room because I was at my wits end and they would not stop fighting. Luckily hubby stepped in! I am so grateful for them, all of them, and so proud of the journey that led us here.

These boys are the best of my life, and I just need time to slow down a little. So a family sunset walk at 9pm it is. Because time does not stop, but this is as close as it gets. My cute (not so) little humans. ❤️

Love,
R.

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Today we planned to visit Cheddar Gorge and Caves. We did not get there until 2pm, by which time it was too late to make...
28/05/2026

Today we planned to visit Cheddar Gorge and Caves. We did not get there until 2pm, by which time it was too late to make the tickets worth it. So I was in a pretty bad mood then - because I don't like plans changing, and I don't like delays, and I don't like the overwhelm of prepping 2x picnics for 4 or last minute Asda runs because there is nothing in the house.

We got to Cheddar and I was determined to still have a nice day out, so we went for a walk and picnic, and then decided to grab some coffee and cupcakes. Wanna know what happened? D went over the display in the one sec my husband got distracted and I was breastfeeding A. The whole f###xxking thing fell down on top on the old couple next to us, 25 beautifully decorated cupcakes. Fxxk me....

D runs to me in the verge of a meltdown, A detaches leaving my b**b totally out (who doesn't love flashing an old couple, right?) and then tries to break free. I am then trying to hug both children to keep one safe and one from crying his eyes out. And I just want to scream because well that's just what I needed, right? Thank god the young ladies running the shop were actually quite lovely. I could have died.

So.... Did the day improve? Yes, it did. We turned it around. We explained to D what he did wrong, and how he can avoid it from happening again. We offered to help and pay and we (and D) apologised, profusely. We left the cupcake coffeeshop shattered but knowing there was nothing else to do. We visited the village and the local shops. We looked for the caves entrance and looked at local maps. We took shoes off and cooled our feet in the water.

We then went to the Reservoir for another picnic and walk, and then played in the skate park and watched the older kids having fun. We laughed at our misery while watching our kids being silly and having fun together. And we joined in. Because well... Parenting is chaos. It will not be the last time things go south. And sometimes... Well, sometimes you just have to let it go and laugh, together. The alternative is too dull.

I have THE BEST partner in crime indeed.

Love,
R.

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