At Home With The Cookes

Today was a big day in our household! Our little superstar, Louie, celebrated his very first football presentation, marking the end of his journey with  his Under 5's training team.  It's hard to believe how quickly the time has flown since he first laced up his boots.

We've just booked our third annual visit to Quarry Walk Park in Staffordshire!  For the last two years, this hidden gem has been our go-to for a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, and we can't wait to return.  This year, we've booked with more friends and all the kids for what promises to be a fantastic group getaway.

For many, the thought of getting from the sprawling city of Los Angeles to the dazzling neon lights of Las Vegas immediately brings to mind a quick, budget flight.  While flying might seem like the most efficient option, trust us, a road trip between these two iconic American destinations offers an unparalleled experience, especially for those venturing from the UK.  Ditch the cramped cabins and embrace the open road – here's why driving is the clear winner, along with essential tips for our British friends.

My work recently took our whole company to enjoy an afternoon of team bonding and fun at Wildshore in Delamere.  It's located among the woodlands and offers a brilliant escape for team building with a wide array of water activities available on the lake.  We started the afternoon with some introductions and team photos and then those going into the water went off to get their wet suits on.

Get ready for an exciting family outing as Fireman Sam Live! The Great Camping Adventure brings its thrilling new show to Parr Hall in Warrington on Saturday, May 24, 2025, with a 2pm performance.  This action-packed live show promises laughter, excitement, and valuable lessons in safety.

During our recent trip to Las Vegas we were invited to step away from the Strip and delve into a different kind of culinary experience: Wild Fig BBQ in Summerlin.  We eagerly accepted the invitation to sample their renowned BBQ combo platters.  Little did we know, this unassuming spot would deliver a smoky, flavorful punch that far exceeded our expectations.

Universal Studios Hollywood has truly out done itself with Super Nintendo World, creating a vibrant, interactive land that pulls you directly into Mario's world.  After all that racing, collecting coins and battling Bowser, it's time for a refuel!  Toadstool Cafe is a signature quick-service restaurant, where Chef Toad himself (virtually!) oversees the culinary delights. Curious about the food?  Read on for an honest review of our visit.

The Sea Sprite Hotel is a charming beachfront property located in the heart of Hermosa Beach, a vibrant beach town between Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach in Los Angeles' South Bay, California.  We were recently invited to stay in their Premier Partial Ocean View Balcony Suite for three nights, and we were thoroughly impressed with our experience.

We recently embarked on an action-packed 3-night trip to LA, blending iconic landmarks, thrilling theme park adventures, and classic California vibes.  If you're looking for inspiration for a whirlwind West Coast getaway, here's exactly how we squeezed every drop of fun out of our LA experience!