More family time...

I slept well again and even got up by 9.30am, though I missed church. I enjoyed several games of Uno with the effervescent W (aged 7). The others decided to visit C for lunch and then to go to Oxford for the afternoon.

I left them to go to C's and enjoyed a quiet morning pottering at home. Then I too headed to C's for 2pm. They were out for a walk so I waited. We had tea when they got back then C, T and co. left and I spent the afternoon helping C out with the bubs as her husband was poorly with man flu in bed. I was more than happy to oblige. I love spending time with them all, especially playing with Teddy, who is smilier, chattier and more delightful each day. He regularly makes himself laugh out loud and looks round expecting everyone else to join in, which of course we all do.

I also got loads of cuddles with Tilly. It is so gratifying (as a non mother) that I am able to soothe her pretty well when she cries except when she needs a feed, which I just can't help with! It was a really lovely relaxed and joyful afternoon. I swear Teddy was trying to copy me as I said 'snap' when I showed him the crocodile picture in his word book. He loved it when I said 'moo' into the palm of his hand when looking at the cow in the book. He's just started to want to 'read' books and loves turning the pages himself. He is learning quickly and trying really hard to communicate. He's definitely got lots of different sounds and some distinctive ones though no discernible words as yet. He also clicks his three teeth together, just because he can and it's a new thing for him I think! He's mastered waving goodbye and hello. He's learning to respond to 'no' and a wagged finger, especially when he's trying to grab his little sister roughly, though he usually pushes the boundary a bit at first. He's great at trying to give her and us kisses too, though they are more like licks!

I cuddled Tilly while Teddy had his bath, which he clearly loves and doesn't mind having water on his head one bit. I was very pleased to see he enjoys playing with the spotty rubber duck I gave him for Christmas.

We had a very nice roast chicken dinner. C said how much she appreciated my spending so much time with her and the bubs and I said I wouldn't miss it for the world.

I came home and watched 'Last Tango in Halifax'. A most enjoyable family day.