Stevie Nicks

Took Audrey up to Saddleworth this afternoon to meet my sister's adorable new kitten, Stevie (Nicks). To say Audrey absolutely loved her would be the understatement of the year. Audrey was obsessed by her. She scampered around after her and chuckled her little heart out as she crawled. To her, Stevie was the most lifelike, fascinating toy she had ever been presented with!

She even showed Stevie how a scratching post should be used (see pic). At first Stevie was shy and a little terrified of this little person besieging her but after a while, the curiosity was reciprocated which made for a few very funny exchanges.

After all my fears that Audrey's daytime naps yesterday would reek havoc with her nighttime settling, my mother's instinct was correct. At one stage my sister and I were sat dolled up in the living room watching Britain's Got Talent with a (very awake) Audrey toddling around at our feet. Not to mention a babysitter sat next to us being paid by the hour to do nothing! It was so frustrating but I couldn't bear to leave Audrey until I knew she was asleep.

Finally at 9pm she did and my sis and I headed into town. The first bar we went to in the Northern Quarter was a terrifying experience for someone who hasn't been out properly in a long time (me). Everyone was pushing and shoving at the bar, dancing in the aisles and generally having a good time. I actually gripped my sister's arm and whispered, "I'm scared" at one stage. And to think I used to be a party girl!

I soon got into the swing of it though. We had a few drinks, got chatted up (very flattering as I really don't feel attractive as a Mum these days) and ended up at our friend Kerry's party at Cuba Cafe.

The babysitter is the perfect excuse to leave at a reasonable hour I've discovered. And today I escaped a hangover and even managed a two hour pram walk to Chorlton Water Park which would normally be a miracle after a night out!

Audrey is still full of cold but was on top form today. So nice to have her back though.