Lemon Head

Lockerbrook

We had a day at home before trotting off to the Peak District to spend the weekend with 17 other adults and 15 other children (age range 9 weeks-5 years) in order to celebrate Esme's 30th.



Battling the elements.


This is the only occasion we were able to get all 17 children in 1 place at the same time (just). One poor kid's being prodded with a stick to get back in line!


And here is everyone.


Madeleine and Wilfred - inseparable.

Scotland

Covering over 700 miles in 5 days, we spent a lot of time in the car. We did, however, manage to catch up with all of Andrew's side of the family and have some nice relaxation time.


An indoor ball-pool at Uncle Alan's house - much enjoyed by the children.



Madeleine, awaiting the arrival of our generous hosts, Beth and Ian.



One day was spent with Even (6) and Josh (4); children of friends of friends.



Thomas, bonding with Uncle Bob.



Stretching our legs on the way home at a brilliant farm-shop on the A66. Fresh food and fresh air, including Ostriches and Emus!

Caterpillar

A proud moment for any parent is a child's first performance on stage. Madeleine played the part of a caterpillar in a production of a play from the book "Monkey Puzzle" at nursery. Inevitably it consisted of lots of children singing out of tune/time and standing in the wrong place, but it was very sweet. Well done to the staff for organising a large group of children in a small area. Roll on the Christmas play....

Dancing Queen

Zzzzzz

Usually when all goes unusually quiet in the neighbouring room there is cause for concern....Madeleine, smearing Sudocrem all over bear's "sore bottom" and anything else in sight or emptying the entire contents of a tube of Bonjela, has been known. On this occasion I was pleasantly surprised to find her sleeping, albeit in this unorthodox position.
(Note the latex gloves being worn - she likes to pretend to be the physio who cast her leg. One night she wore them to bed and slept the whole night with them on.)

Mummy's Little Helper

This is not child exploitation - Madeleine requested to wash up the dishes after lunch. That was an offer I could't refuse. However, I ended up having to do the whole lot again and mop the floor which had turned into a lake. Practise makes perfect, and I can't imagine the offer of doing menial household chores will continue for long.