ANOTHER BUSY WEEKEND, GALLIVANTING

Another weekend away - it was hectic before I'd even packed!!

Friday was a working day, followed immediately by a 'Princess and Pirates' party - Alice wore the same pirate costume for this party (C's 6th) as she did for E's 4th 6 or 7 weeks ago, only now the costume is rather tighter!

First thing on Saturday morning we 'hit the road' to go to Grandad's new house for his birthday party. Alice was quite clingy whilst she got her bearings for the first hour or so, but then she had a wonderful time with her ball in the gardens. Alice refused her afternoon nap but had had a few minutes in the car that morning - so she was quite tearful through the afternoon.

Today we went to the B's - I'd been there 12 months ago (taking only a photo of 'Whatshername' with me), this time Alice came in person!! Their daughter A was also adopted from China - Alice relaxed instantly and we had a super time - Alice particularly liked playing in the sand and water, bouncing on A's 'big girl' trampoline and climbing up AND DOWN the ladder of the slide!! Alice was in awe of A and spent a long time observing her and then copying what she did (especially during lunch). It didn't surprise me but it did amuse me to confirm that Alice is almost the same size as A - despite being 14 months younger!!

(Then it was another long drive home - luckily no problems with fuel but I was careful not to let the tank get too empty. Another fuel driver strike is scheduled for next weekend, let's hope that the conciliation talks are a success tomorrow.)