Happy Birthday

4years 131days

CRAZY morning! On the way to ballet, the right side of the train journey, our bike tyre blew. I managed to wheel Katie and the bike to ballet, where she trotted off for a happy class. I charged like a maniac for the next 90 minutes dragging the bike to a repair shop, running to collect birthday gifts, paper etc, dashed back for the bike, back for Katie. I heard the tail end of their tap class and they were sounding really good, preparing for their next exams in a few weeks. We then dashed to the train to Scarborough, and the dashing calmed!

We then spent a really very wonderful afternoon and evening with family. Today was my Aunt's 70th birthday. My aunt has been a big part of my life, for all my life. She has been my babysitter, teacher of crafts, renowned baker of the family Chocolate log-tree, provider of treats, my employer, my family historian. And lots more, and to Katie too. It was special to be all together to share in the celebrations.

We had afternoon tea at their home - freshly baked scones, birthday cake and gifts. Katie had a happy time playing with cousin Maddie. We then all headed off to the Park Manor Hotel for the evening. We had an hour in the hotel lounge enjoying drinks and chat, and some "posed" photos, before we enjoyed sole use of their function room for a very delicious 4 course meal, a toast and great company. Celebrations were returned to the lounge for coffee and fudge. Katie was a superstar the whole time. She sat next to Maddie and they behaved wonderfully the whole meal. She changed into her pyjamas half way through, but kept going right til we left at 10.15.

She was asleep before we pulled out of the carpark!

LR Uncle Derek, Uncle Chris, James, Aunty Kay, Thomas, (Gr)Aunty Sandra, you, (Gr)Uncle Alan, Aunty Jo, Maddie, Uncle Keith, Abbie, Grandad, Granny, Mummy

(I was quite impressed. Not only did the barman manage to take the photo with us all in it - he looked utterly terrified of the camera - but he has every person looking at the camera and smiling!)