It's A Wickett World

And hand in hand....

2010-06-07T10:23:00.002+01:00

By the edge of the sand, they danced by the silvery moon.

What happens when 2 people separated by 20 plus years get reunited again? Well, first 3 arrived from New Zealand to join the 3 already in Wales, then Spots from Gloucesterhire, then the Sussex crowd then more from Kent and Oxford. The 18 went off in 2 boats to mark the symbolic reunion of they who have been parted by many years.

Not a sad occasion. A joyous one, celebrating love and the lives which have sprung from this one, original love. A occasion to be cherished today, to be remembered tomorrow and to be reflected on for years to come.

So here is to fishy circles and turnip crabs and the generations who will follow.

Grandad we love you, Grandad we do!

2010-05-16T21:52:00.003+01:00

Back by popular demand..

Overheard

2010-01-09T21:15:00.002Z

Sometimes, the Munchkin chatters away to himself. This is common particularly while he is chomping down some grub.

Recently, we had these.

"A mouse took a stroll through the deep, dark wood. He saw a Gruffalo and he said HOOT"

"Incy Wincy Spider climbed the tree and it snowed and he froze - HE'S DEAD MUMMY"

"Incy Wincy Spider climbed the water spout, he fell down and had another go - WELL DONE spider!"

A-musing Munchidotes

2010-01-09T18:45:00.004Z

Parent: Time for bed, kiss everyone good night then

Munchkin: No, not kiss Ah Ma

Parent : Why not?

Munchkin: Not like her freckles, take your freckles off please Ah Ma. Then I kiss you

Munchkin: Can I lick him?

Parent: Who?

Munchkin: Uncle Sam the chock-lit man. He made of chok-lit

Munchkin: Daddy, where the roof?

Daddy: Roof?

Munchkin: The roof over my head.

(N.B. Munchkin's parents have, in an attempt to instill a strong work ethic in Munchkin, told him that they have to go to work to provide adequate shelter and food for him)

Munchkin: I want to go on the Smelly-o-la

Munchkin's bedtime reading this week is Treasure Island and is very impressed with the good ship Hispaniola

Munchkin: I am going into the bath with spiderman

Mummy: Why?

Munchkin: Cos I want to baptise spiderman

Munchkin: Where the font?

Mummy: There it is

Munchkin: Is water in it?

Mummy: Yes there will be later

Munchkin: Where the tap, mummy?

Munchkin (dragging Hayley the bear along): I going to the other room

Daddy: Why are you going there?

Munchkin: Cos you will laugh at me in here

Daddy: No we won't. stay in here

Munchkin: No Daddy. Is PRIVATE.

Frosty the snowman

2010-01-06T22:52:00.003Z

Happy Snow Day! Today we have mainly been:

building snow things - men, dinosaurs, bunnies, things......
pelting each other and every unsuspecting neighbour with snowballs
sledging
shovelling
eating
warming up

and a good day was had by all

A little catch up....

2009-11-15T20:54:00.011Z

The family had a little stay-cation a few weeks ago.

We were on the road every morning by 1030 ( a feat in its own right!)

One day we went to Bristol Zoo

One day we went to Bristol Docks - Munchkin seen here with his bacon roll which he refused to share with the seagulls

On another day, we went in search of Huckford Viaduct - pleased to report that we found it.

We also befriended some Lemurs at Madagascar - Cotswold Wildlife Park - well, maybe befriended is a bit too strong a term.

We definitely befriended Toffee the miniature donkey

And we even managed a bit of DIY!

All in all we had a good rest and a great many fun days out filled with lots of laughter and giggles.

Novus Orsa

2009-11-14T16:19:00.003Z

And so with one end, comes a new beginning. With one farewell, comes a welcome, with one death comes a new life.

The circle of life is yet again, complete. Somewhere in the East today, a little blessing arrived, screaming no doubt with the vitality of life, filling a void, providing a hope.

You have been long awaited little one. Welcome!

From far and wide they came.....

2009-11-09T21:16:00.002Z

to celebrate the life of a man that over the years, has been colleague, friend and brother. The service stations along the way were riddled with mini reunions of people that had not seen each other for years, but who picked up, exactly where they left off, friends, comrades...family.

Again, the family gathered, to celebrate, as requested the life of an amazing man, who touched all our lives in different ways sharing blood, sweat, tears and a few "interesting" experiences along the way. A man who taught us in his later years that fighting the good fight is why we live, staying optimistic is how we should be and being warriors, not whingers in life, is what it is all about.

He wanted us to reminisce about the good times, the fun times, the times when mentioned reduce us all to laughter....belly aching laughter. Amidst the sombre nature of the occasion, laughter rang out. With the flowing tears came smiles from memories of days gone by, lifting heavy hearts and spirits, carving smiles in the glum faces that were there.

People lined the aisles, there were no empty seats, no unfilled spaces. There wasn't any standing room left. We listened to how this special man was a dad, a husband, a friend, a hero and a legend. We heard how he fought and never gave up. But most of all, love filled the room. If there was one thing that I learnt today, it is that the family will always be there, through the good times and the bad times, together, always. It is the same faces that you see, at every occasion, regardless of what it is. It is the family that always come together regardless of distance. There was not other place that any of us would have been as today of all days, home was with the family and the family, brought us all home.

The sins of the father shall be visited upon the son

2009-11-07T22:58:00.003Z

Enough said. I teach him nice, conventional nursery rhymes. His father on the other hand, teaches him things like this blaming the lack of self knowledge. Well, I guess this is another step of well roundedness.

From the archives

2009-11-07T22:50:00.003Z

I was thinking about Ah Ee today as she is going to embark on a bit of a journey next week. I chanced upon this, made quite a while ago in April. Munchkin wasn't even 2 then.....seems like a lifetime ago listening to him now!

Party Time!

2009-11-01T21:53:00.006Z

Today we have been at a birthday party (note Munchkin only has eyes for food)
He was particularly partial to the ham and the hula hoops

Even the entertainment could not tempt him away from the food

Eventually the promise of raisins did

but he was a little concerned about the Rainbow Pixie

Here's hoping that he won't dream about her tonight!

O Hallow's Eve

2009-10-30T14:36:00.007Z

when witches prowl
and Jack O'Lanterns glow and growl

And little imps and goblins creep

and munchkins giggle

laugh and squeak!

Time to say goodbye

2009-10-26T10:51:00.000Z

To a man, who these many months has provided us all with a lesson in how to be brave, how to fight and never give up and how to remain strong in the face of the unthinkable.

As he sleeps forever now, we smile and celebrate the life filled with the wealth of a loving family, the richness of friends who care and the abundance of spirit.

Here's to you and the good fight and yes, we will see you again.

One little jab in the arm

2009-10-23T22:42:00.003+01:00

One WHOLE week of weirdness.

Well, on Saturday a week ago, I strolled into the place with nice nursies to subject myself, voluntarily to a nasty needle. At least I thought I would be inflicted with A nasty needle. In fact, I had to endure 2 nasty needles from the nice nursey who, did let me have 2 plasters to prove a point.

Anyway, when I got home I started feeling a littl strange (even more than normal). By mid afteroon, I had to go to bed for an hour. During the night, I started to get a dull ache in my arm. On waking on Sunday morning, I discovered I had what looked like 2 lashes across my upper arm where the pneumonia needle kissed me. By midweek, the lashes had turned to welts. By Wednesday, I had one mother of all red rashes which was painful and warm to the touch. Hmm, I decided to speak to nice nursey at work who said that I would feel poo for a while and that some drugs of the legal kind would help.

Off home i traipsed after being at work for a couple of hours and horizontal I stayed for 4 hours or so.

What a week. Today the rash is the size of a £2 piece and fortunately, no longer painful. I can actually lift my arm again.

Just goes to sow what 20 strains of pneumonia at one shot can do to you.......

Sometimes.....

2009-10-18T10:26:00.002+01:00

when you love someone...you just have to let them go.

A very wise woman told me this recently and it rings true in so many ways. Love is a strange sentiment. It is gentle and kind but it is also all consuming and protective. It can be fierce, it can be angry and it can make you say things that you don't mean. It is those we love most that bear the brunt of all this, as they also enjoy the good times when love manifests itself as tender, affectionate and patient.

I am reminded that love is in all of us. I am reminded that love is the greatest of all feelings yet it can be the cruelest too. I am aware that love can bring people closer together but I am also aware that love, at its worst can push people apart.

But, all that being said. Love is all conquering. I believe this. I hold on to this and I concede that truly, as that wise woman said, sometimes love is not just not having to say you're sorry, but love is also about letting go. I find this difficult but I know I must as if I don't, I will loose something very dear to me, something that all the riches in the world can't buy, something I hold precious. So let go I must, with a prayer in my heart that, if it is not too late, love will heal and all will be well again.

Flex those muscles.....

2009-10-11T21:17:00.004+01:00

facial ones that is......Munchkin has been having a facial workout. He discovered the new expression today.

Ok, so Mummy can't remember which way to hold the video cam but it makes rather amusing viewing. The expressions make me laugh anyway. See what you think....

More Munchkinisms

2009-10-08T21:29:00.003+01:00

Munchkin: Daddy you Prickle - lee
Daddy: Am I?
Munchkin: (y)es. Shave yourself!

Munchkin: Postman Pat, Postman Pat
Mummy: And his black and white cat.......
Munchkin: No. Don't interrupt me Mummy, I singing.
Mummy: (MEEP!) Sorry darling.
Munchkin: Say 'scuse me next time. D0n't do it again.

It was a happy day

2009-09-26T20:44:00.002+01:00

We made our journey East today. Our hearts heavy,our minds racing in anticipation of what would await us there. It was the most difficult of journeys, it was a hello, nice to see you, good bye nice to have known you sort of visit.

But the spirit of the "family" managed to save the day. And the centre of it all, the bravest, most strong willed man I know. I watched in awe as the weary, tired physical self made its way to a seat outside, stumbling along the way and needing an arm of assistance. But as the conversation started to roll, an immeasurable strength emerged, blotting out the frail physical existence revealing hope, strength and such courage.

I watched from afar for the hours that we were together. The body was tired and weary but the spirit, well, was soaring. We talked about old times, dear times, happy times, sad times. We reminisced about the things that we had to do, things that we shouldn't have done and things that we would do all over again.

The sun was out, the smiles and laughter warmed us all taking away the chill of the fragility of life.

It has been a good day, a great day when once more, the "family" came together proving that the path to a friend's house is never too long. Love drew us all there, love will keep giving us hope and love will bring us together again.

Ever has it been.....

2009-09-23T21:15:00.003+01:00

......that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation.

There are those who we meet, in the journey that is life who touch us, inspire us and remind us the importance of the bond of love, family and friendship. These are those most easily taken foregranted until it comes the time that separation is unavoidable, inevitable, imminent.

It is times like this that prompt me to stop, take stock and give thanks for the blessing of kinmanship and wise council. These are those who you want to share the most significant of life's milestones with. These are the ones who you know, would drop anything and come if you need them. You know this because you would do exactly the same for them.

I guess this is a position of priviledge. It is not often that one gets an amber light. A prompt for action. A BIG hint to tell that someone how you feel before it is too late. What to say? The truth is, I haven't got a clue of the right thing to say, to do or to feel. But I know this, the exodus East is the right thing to do for me. Eastwards we head....to try and put into words and actions a special bond of love that can only be understood by those few special ones who are part of this little circle of what can only be described as a family of dear, dear friends

Toddler Taming

2009-09-22T21:45:00.007+01:00

What is this?

Hmm...I wonder what this is for?

Well, in the last week we have made a few changes to the Munchkin's environment. The base of his cot has been lowered and a stairgate has been installed (thank you, Chief Oracle!) across his bedroom door.

You see, we have had an escapee. The little terror has managed to escape the confines of his cot whilst zipped into a sleeping bag.

Fingers crossed, all is quiet in the lair up there, the babe is asleep and snoring like a bear.

In a world of his own

2009-09-22T21:38:00.002+01:00

We have concluded that Munchkin lives in Munchkin land. And things in Munchkin land are not as they seem to the layman's eye.

Daddy: (reading Goodnight Moon) Goodnight mush, Goodnight old lady, whispering hush.
Munchkin: Is not
Daddy: Is not?
Munchkin: Is not an old lady, Daddy. Is a rabbit, actually.

note to the reader: Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown was illustrated by Clement Hurd depicting rabbits as the main characters

Kids - who'd have em?

2009-09-19T14:26:00.002+01:00

A random collection of Munch-isms

Munchkin: Mummmmmyyyyyy!
Mummy: Yes, Munchkin. What is it?
Munchkin: I have a worm
Mummy: (He can't possibly have one, he's making it up!) Oh, that's nice.
Munchkin: I have Bitted it.
Mummy: (level of doubting the existence of the worm diminishing fast)
Munchkin: Has a HOLE in it. Is Dead.
Lesson 1 - He says it like it is. He does not have a really good imagination. He just does what it says on the tin.

Munchkin: Chersie has got some NICE Mac-crackers
Mummy: Has she? (Hmm, maybe what he says next will give me a clue as to what he means)
Munchkin: They Lovely. They nice and wobble-ley. I shake them like this
(violent shaking of hands in cupping motion interchanged ith clenched fists)
Mummy: !!!!!!!!!

He meant Maracas

Lesson 2 - Misinterpretation of Munch-isms are common.

Munchkin: Mummyyyyy! I under the table
Mummy: What are you doing there?
Munchkin : I having a BIG poo
Mummy: (remembers lesson 1 above and prepares stations for pit stop)
Munchkin: (runs into the room, points his bottom at me and backs up) Mummy, smell my bottom. It is Smelly like a big smelley poo

Lesson 3 - Munchkin does pride himself in his work and appreciates acknowledgement of a job well done.

It is a little wonkey.....but

2009-09-13T21:23:00.003+01:00

The sentiment is real.

We tired to speak to the Lau Lang today as it is Ah Ma's birthday but they were busy gallivanting (and eating) - pure speculation but I am sure there is some truth in it!

Still, we just wanted to say this...a bit up-side down but maybe washed down with a little whiskey......

Munchkin on film

2009-09-12T21:19:00.008+01:00

Tarzan (without the loin cloth)
Castaway

Gone in 60 seconds

Racing Stripes

The Godfather

Too Fast Too Furious

Rumble Down Under

2009-09-10T21:22:00.003+01:00

G'day lil' Rollo! Welcome to the world little Seahorse!

Early yesterday morning we got a message telling us that we have been blessed (from afar) and T has now got a first cousin once removed (I am reliably informed by the office clever clogs who has a wealth of knowledge of all things .......well, all things). The photos are magical and make me rather nostalgic about Munchkin when he was that 'ickle. What a difference 2 years makes!??!

Anyway, to the possums down under, we say Happy Days!

What a difference half an hour makes...

2009-08-30T23:00:00.005+01:00

I have lots of hairgoing...................

going................

All gone!

oh well! It'll grow back...it might take a while...but I am sure it will.

Hmmm

2009-08-30T15:09:00.003+01:00

We are in deep contemplation and will eventually have to come to a decision. Do we or don't we? Should we or shouldn't we? Hmm...a tough decision but fortunately one that we need not have an answer to for a little while as we do have time on our side.

Still, looking through the options is making rather interesting reading. There is much to take into consideration. So much to weigh up.

Through the muddle of information, there is a clear path as of one thing we are certain, the goal.

So weigh up the information we must, sift through the detail we will and a decision will come, no sooner than it is required and no later than it can be made.

Ah go on....you know you want to

2009-08-30T15:02:00.006+01:00

Go on....give Daddy a kiss..
No...will not

Well.....I suppose I ought to

Pucker up Daddy - INCOMING!

Mission accomplished and it was better than I thought

One little voice, one little plea

2009-08-29T16:02:00.009+01:00

Don't take to the skies, please don't leave me

I'll miss you more than you will know

I really didn't want to see you go

So Cheers! to you from across the seas

I promise to be good so Lau Lang Please!

Make my Christmas wish come true

This one little plea, from me to you, I just don't know what else to do.

Time to say goodbye

2009-08-28T23:45:00.008+01:00

They came, they filled this home with joy and love and they have now gone

I have spent the last week trying not to think about the miles that separate us and the days and months until we meet again. My parents are angels. I am biased, I realise that. But there aren't many people who would give up a month of their busy lives (going to kopi tiam, working, exercising etc etc) to:Take on the role of chief groundsman/gardener/gamekeeper at someone else's house

Clear the substantial ironing backlog

And most importantly to dote, totally and absolutely on one little boy

And the investment has paid off. He loves them (so he says), he misses them (bit obvious from the staring out of the window at planes saying "Ah Ma, Ah Kong they back" and he wants them back.

We have all dealt with the void that they have left in different ways; Munchkin has been talking to Ah Ma and Ah Kong on his telephone and holding his treasured tennis ball tightly in his little hands every day, T has fired up the wok and fried copius amounts of keropok and ikan bilis and I have cooked "Mama meals" for both us and Munchkin. They have left a gap. A BIG gap particularly with Munchkin.

Munchkin: I packing my suitcase, Mummy: Where are you going?

Munchkin: To May-see-yaa to live in Ah Ma and Ah Kong's house there with them

Mummy: Do you not want to live with Mummy and Daddy any more?

Munchkin: No....want Ah Ma and Ah Kong. Ah Kong is my Christmas present

Mummy: Is he?

Munchkin: Is going to jump out of a box with a ribbon on his head, for me

So, to two very special people who are sorely missed, thank you, for sharing with us a magical time, blessed with love and filled with joy. Here is not to the miles that separate us but rather to the promise that every day that passes is another day closer to us being all together again.

Out and about

2009-08-18T22:30:00.009+01:00

Today we will mainly go into Nailsworth
Here fishy fishy in the river

Hmm..no fishies.....outta here then...onward to Cirencester

Ah well....I'll just slide down this firemen's pole

I want a climbing frame....just like this one.

I LIKE these doggies....Can I take them home with me?

Where is my pie, my 2 in 1 pie?

The ties that bind

2009-08-11T19:08:00.002+01:00

Most people who heard that the Lau Lang were staying for a whole month thought us mad. How can you cope, they cried? A WHOLE month living with your parents again.

Between you and I, the time has gone far too quickly. I wish we were back to week one again. I wish time would just stand still.

In the past couple of weeks, there has been such joy in this house and such warmth in this home. Munchkin is happy, ecstatically happy. He has behaved commendably, slept when he should sleep, eaten (a huge amount) when it was time for food. He has found a play mate and a partner in crime in his Ah Kong and thrived under the wise (and very firm) council of his Ah Ma.

This is the sort of care that can't be bought. It stems from love and love alone. They adore him and he knows it. Yet, he also knows not to take advantage of it (too much!). Somehow a deep bond has formed and with it a certain respect. Watching him with them, I see myself in his place. I see them doing all that and more with me as a child and it makes me proud to have them as my Lau Lang.

The apron strings might have worn a bit thin over the years and the many miles might have stretched them a little but the ties that bind, still do just that, more strongly than ever before.

There are some things money can't buy

2009-08-11T19:05:00.002+01:00

for all other things, there is Munchkin's Ah Kong.
If I shut my eyes and wish really hard, maybe, just maybe, Ah Kong will stay.

This little piggy......

2009-08-08T16:30:00.007+01:00

went to Stroud Market
stayed with the olds

had Ah Ma rushed off her feet

was having fun

cried weee weee weee into the nearest tree!

Family Day out

2009-08-05T21:45:00.013+01:00

We went for a mini adventure at the weekend. The rain stayed away while we bimbled round Hidcote Manor Gardens. It was a lovely drive there and I think a good time was had by all.

38 years of wedded bliss...
Number 1 Grandson - Kim Soon

Love is in the air......

Lau Lang, Char Bor Ginnar and Kim Soon

Chase me! Chase me!

Am I doing it right, Ah Kong?

This is how you do it, Kim Soon.

Look Daddy! Look Ah Kong! I can do it!

Lemme go! Lemme go, I tell you!

One little boy and the President & Vice President (co-founders) of his fan club

At the end of a long week....

2009-08-01T22:00:00.012+01:00

This week has been a tiring one. T has been busy at work with very pleasing results and is no reaping the benefits of 19 long weeks of preparation. The men folk had a day out bonding to Edgbaston to watch the Ashes. The rain meant they didn't see much play but spirits were not dampened by the weather. This was a dream come true for Papa, who, if he could would eat, sleep and breathe the game.

The wet weather is forecast to continue all weekend. We were not about to sit at home and mope and whine about the weather though. That would just be giving in. So...

We had a little breakfast (aww isn't it romantic?)
My Pa looks very good for 70, don't you think?

Munchkin wanted to make sure that all the tea was gone

On the way to Gloucester Docks, to the Ferris wheel!!

Hold Daddy's hand, Munchkin!

Boys on da wheel.

Everybody say "Wellies"

Munchkin is ecstatic at finding Cranky the Crane

Mama waiting for the lock keeper

Papa waiting for the same

All together again...say "Umbrellas"

Tired Munchkin on the way home.

And a fun time was had by all despite the rain!

Forrin Invasion Week 1

2009-07-29T21:50:00.012+01:00

Look Ah Kong, I have a keyboard

This week, I am mainly going to watch the Ashes at Edgbaston

Multiple packets of curry powder, spices, herbs, Malaysian treats later, the Mary Poppins' esque bags continues to yield surprises

Back to that keyboard.....

Daddy has got the power tools out again, hence the ear defenders

Read me a story, Ah Kong....

Ah Ma's turn

Ah Kong on dress the monster duty

Let me at those olives.....Want more olives

Sunday Lunch at the pub

T-0

2009-07-25T17:16:00.002+01:00

Today is THE day. Now is THE hour. The time is now.

They have arrived. Ah Ma and Ah Kong have been reunited with T and the tired Trio are making their way back to sunny Gloucestershire via the biggest car park in the world, the M25.

The foreigns landed a whole hour early and managed to look innocent enough to clear immigration with the same hour of landing....which meant that they were standing, waiting for the ride home before they were even due to land in the first place.

And now I wait. Munchkin is still fast asleep oblivious to what is on its way. Words are not enough to describe the excitement I feel. The house is just about presentable but by no means spotless not that they will notice as the 2 pairs of eyes that burst through the door will be more interested in the Munchkin who after his BIG sleep this afternoon might just still be up to see them.

The Anti Milky Bar Kid

2009-07-25T17:12:00.002+01:00

Tipping my head back like this is the only way I can keep mummy's glasses on my face

T-6

2009-07-19T18:04:00.004+01:00

The household has been in preparation at a time when Ashes fever has also dominated. However, important things first This is how you stand

This is how you hit the ball

This is how you wait to run

The little cricket bat you see has a bit of a history behind it. It is about 30 years old. It was bought when a little girl was old enough to play. 2 years ago, it found its way into a suitcase and crossed many oceans, miles and miles away. It arrived in England in July 2007 and was presented to the little girl again (now not so little) for her newborn boy. And now it is his turn to play. And play he will when his coach arrives on Saturday!

(Not) Melodious Munchkin

2009-07-18T22:07:00.008+01:00

Munchkin has been experimenting with song. 2 tunes dominate, Twinkle, twinkle little star and the Battle Hymn of the Republic.

Lyrics vary and are very changeable

Today I am mainly

2009-07-18T21:12:00.002+01:00

Paintin'

Hmm

2009-07-14T22:23:00.004+01:00

Munchkin has been given a very lovely deep sea diver figure by the two little misses formerly of Houston, Texas.

Today, he figured out that the diver's mask and air line come apart.

Munchkin: Mummy Look, the frogman mask is come off!

Mummy: Let's put it back on, poor man can't breathe!

Munchkin wanders off then comes back into the room with his daddy

Munchkin: Quick daddy, put mask on the frogman. Quickly daddy, poor man can'tbreathe. Will DIE!

2 girls and a little monkey

2009-07-13T15:35:00.006+01:00

Due to a Poppins' predicament, the Munchkin and I are home today. But we are certainly making the most of it and having a whale of a time at the pleasure dome that is Chief Oracle's house.
So what have we been up to? Well......

We have been driving in the car

We have been on a voyage on the choppy high seas which really rocked the boat
We have been sitting on the steps waiting for the train to take us for lunch

And we have been falling in love.

Not bad for a few hours work. Not bad at all.

Starting 'em young

2009-07-12T15:20:00.007+01:00

Woohoo! 1 week 6 days and counting till the foreign invasion. While T busies himself with accomodation improvements i.e. finishing off what we started many moons ago, I decided (following a consultation with Ah Mah) to start conditioning the Munchkin.

I think I will let the following describe whether or not my little experiment was successful.

Caution: The following scenes could contain loud chomping and snuffling in the manner of a ravenous piggy.

Mmmmmeeee Hoooooon!
Ooh! Dropped a bit. Don't want to waste it.

And now for the sound effects......

Not very chatty due to being a little preoccupied with the task at hand

Do as you are told

2009-07-09T21:56:00.002+01:00

Munchkin was in the bath today minding his own business when his father noticed some little slimey friends in his nose.

Daddy: Blow your nose, Munchkin.
Munchkin blows his nose
Daddy: Do it again, harder!
Munchkin blows his nose again
Daddy: Go on you cn do better than that!
Munchkin REALLY blows his nose
Daddy: Urghhhhhhhhh!
Munchkin: That a bow-giiii, Daddy. A big one

On Daddy's hand was a baby slug....complete with slime. Nice.

The things children say

2009-07-05T23:32:00.003+01:00

We met up with some friends and their lovely 3 month old daughter for coffee and cake today at a local garden centre. The little one was feeling a little crabby today so there was a bit of a lung workout when we got there. There was no comforting the poor little thing, she was inconsolable.
Amidst the tears, a little voice pipped up,

Munchkin: Don't like that noise! Don't like it.
Mummy: It's fine...she will be ok in a minute
Munchkin: Get it
Mummy: Get what?
Munchkin: Da ear defenders. At home. Clamps hands over ears in a very dramatic fashion

Later in the evening, during his bath, Munchkin proceeded to do some pretty interesting things with certain part of his anatomy which would, bring tears to the eyes of a grown man

Daddy: What are you doing?
Munchkin: Pullin' it
Mummy: What are you pulling?
Munchkin: (giggling) Weee weeee (thrusts hips in a suggestive fashion)
Mummy: I don't think you should, what do you think it is?
Munchkin: Tee hee hee is a Hose Pipe.
(Parents collapsed on the floor beside themselves)

Gender bender

2009-07-04T18:59:00.002+01:00

Munchkin: Mummy's a sleepin' beauty. Is Luffly
Mummy: Awww! Thank you, darling. Does that mean Munchkin is a handsome prince?
Munchkin: NO. (very firmly)
Mummy: No? Then what are you then?
Munchkin: Is a PRINCESS! (Big smile on face, very pleased with self)
Mummy: A Princess? I think you are more like a handsome prince, don't you?
Munchkin: NO. Is a PRINCESS!
Mummy: Why are you a princess, Munchkin?
Munchkin: (H)as a handbag.
Mummy: !!!!!!!

Munchkin's Muddles

2009-07-04T18:55:00.004+01:00

Mummy: What are you doing?
Munchkin: Push the foot stool here, Mummy. (points)
Mummy pushes the foot stool to the designated place - exactly
Munchkin: Fireman rescue 'im. From fishies.
Mummy: Ok, darling
Munchkin: Oh no! Fireman been sick on the floor
Mummy: Oh dear! What happens now?
Munchkin: Go get a wet wipe. Clean it all up (exits room to get a wet wipe)
Mummy: All ok now?
Munchkin: All clean now. Is better. No more comot boy.
Munchkin: Cleaning fireman's hell-mutt. Fireman was sick on fireman's hell-mutt.

One week, 7 days......

2009-07-04T15:37:00.003+01:00

It has been a bit of a warm week. It has been a long week. It has been a very trying week....'eck it has jus been one of THOSE weeks.

For a start, Munchkin who has been sleeping through the night since he was about 8 weeks old has been fussing at bedtime. We realise that we have been very lucky with him, we realise that good things always come to and end and we also realise that we are here to lay down the law. So back to controlled crying we went with, touchwood, favourable results. Now controlled crying is not everyone's cuppa tea. It works for some and not for others and it is NOT for the faint hearted.

Night one saw about 15 minutes of screaming, shouting and thumping before all was quiet. Night two saw the same except the drama went on for all of a minute. Tonight will be night three. We shall see. What touched me was the number of people that dropped me a line to say everything is going to be alright, the number of people that gave me the reassurance that we are doing the right thing and the number of people who got in touch just to say " I hear you, I feel your pain....been there done that and survived - and you will too!"

So to all my pillars of strength, partners in crime and fellow "cruel" parents.....thank you! Let's just hope that we aren't creating little monsters but rather nurturing little characters who know not to mess with mummy!

The weekend before the birthday that is!

2009-06-28T21:41:00.003+01:00

I want to ride my bye-kee-kal with my new hell-mutt on!
It make me very happy!

Birthday Season Part 1

2009-06-28T15:10:00.009+01:00

Oooh! I have a new toy! Thank you very much Lau Lang!
I think I will boil some eggs for my birthday.

Oh..that saucepan lid is a little hot!

Owwwww! It's hot!

Look Ah Ee! Look what I've got!

A Cage! A little dungeon cell. Just for me!

Who needs a purple kai mou sou?

Little drowned mouse

2009-06-20T17:02:00.004+01:00

Daddy: What are you doing, Munchkin?
Munchkin: Getting the mouse
Daddy: What's happening to the mouse?
Munchkin: Putting 'im in the water.
Daddy: What will happen to him in the water?
Munchkin: Float. Putting 'im for a little (s)wim. All wet now. Get 'im a towel

Exit Munchkin to get a towel

Munchkin: Dry 'im all up. Drowned 'im.

Do you......

2009-06-20T16:55:00.002+01:00

really like it?
Is it really wicked?

Sporting a new haircut today. Thanks to Aunty Carla!

Do unto others......

2009-06-20T15:02:00.003+01:00

To set the scene, picture this. One small human being is rummaging through his changing bag and manages to secure the following items:

1 nappy
1 nappy sack
2 pieces of cotton wool
1 changing mat

After contemplating his very successful haul, he sets to work on a task...well, a task that only he would think wise.

Enter the cat. The cat is lying flat out on the foot stool when it notices the small human being approaching with the abovementioned items. The cat, against her own better judgement, chooses to ignore him.

The small human lays the changing mat down and beckons to the cat. The cat ignores the small human being. Undeterred, the small human being "encourages" the cat onto the out spread mat. The cat relents (hoping that it would be left alone). The small human being has other ideas. He proceeds to attempt to "Wipe Mishi's bottom, Mummy!" very thoroughly with the cotton wool. The cat, amazingly, consents.

The small human being then starts to unfold the nappy (after having disposed of the "dirty" cotton wool into the nappy sack). "Put the nappy on Mishi's bottom, now" "Put the bottom on the nappy, Mishi, please"

The cat takes one look at the small human and the flailing nappy. The cat saw the open door, te cat leapt out of the open door. The small human being is left....nappy in hand....wondering what went wrong. "Maybe Mishi not smelly at all, Mummy" he concluded. The end!

Head, Shoulders (the alternative version)

2009-06-17T21:05:00.003+01:00

Whilst in the bath today, T and I started singing the age old favourite Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. It went a bit like this:

Parents (in unison): Head, Shoulders, Knees and....
Munchkin: Toes!
Parents: Knees and...
Munchkin: Toes!
Parents: Head, Shoulders, Knees and...
Munchkin: Toes!
Parents: Knees and.....
Munchkin: Toes
Parents: And
Munchkin: Eyes, EEEE-yars, mouth and nose
Parents: Head, shoulders, knees and......
Munchkin: Elbows and Weeee weeeeeee!!! Look Wee wee! (grabs unmentionables and tugs!)

Gulp!

Baaa Baaa Black Sheep!

2009-06-17T20:57:00.003+01:00

Earlier this week, Munchkin discovered some yummy Marmite rice cakes in my bag. He managed to open the box (not a lot stands in the way of this boy and food). He helped himself to a piece but not before declaring "Mummy, stolen it. Running Away!!!!" as he fled out of reach. He happily munched away in the car then suddenly declared.......

Look Mummy! Made black sheep.
Baaa! Baaaa! Black Sheep!

'as no wool is a rice cake.

N.B. It did look a little like a sheep - if you had a VERY good imagination!

And they call it....Puppy love!

2009-06-14T13:02:00.003+01:00

Munchkin has bitten the love bug. He is smitten. He is in lurve.

She is an older woman. She is 5. He is not yet 2. Yet, today, in the sunshine and through the daisies and buttercups Munchkin fell in love.

But there is a little sister. Oh the choices. Both are older. One by years, the other by a matter of months.

Still, the relationship progressed rather quickly. They went from coy peeking to the lady being in charge, a roll under the duvet, a meal out (chaperoned, of course!) then a very reluctant farewell.

Watch this space.....

I'll be back for Christmas

2009-06-13T23:30:00.004+01:00

Ah Ee was here for Christmas last year. It was a good Christmas filled with many happy memories. But guess what? She is coming back.

Tickets booked, flights confirmed. Whooop! Whooop! Jingle Bells! Yay! Now we just need to work on the Lau Lang......

Bossy Boots

2009-06-13T17:36:00.003+01:00

Munchkin has been in communications with Ah Ma and Ah Khong.

Munchkin: Where's Ah Khong gone?
Ah Ma: Ah Khong has gone to the back
Munchkin: Gone (to) the toy - let?. Makin' a bad 'mell.
(Mummy has to pick herself off the floor from laughing so hard)

Enter Ah Khong

Munchkin: Ah Khong, what dat?
Ah Khong: Which one?
Munchkin: The bear. That one. The Winnie Pooh one. 'ave it!
Munchin: Want da shirt. Ah Khong bought it. Get it

Ah Ma gets Ah Khong to fetch said item of clothing

Ah Khong: Here is your shirt.
Ah Ma: What a nice shirt - Munchkin will look so handsome!
Munchkin: Put it on da bear. Winnie Pooh Bear

And guess what? Munchkin's wish, Lau Lang's command. They were never such roll overs when I was young....I am wondering if they have gone soft in their old age. Or maybe the Munchkin's powers of persuasion work over many thousand miles as well! Well it is good to know that it is not just us that have been foxed by the power of the Munch!

Technology....at its best

2009-06-13T17:28:00.002+01:00

Today we have mainly been communicating with Malaysia.

Ah Ee has been very busy working recently. The only advantage of that is that she has the laptop and webcam at home over the weekend which means, airtime with the Munchkin.
So, before lunch today, we commenced comms. Chatting happily away we noticed that Ah Ma and Ah Khong were online. Who says you can't teach an old new tricks. Ah Ma and Ah Khong must have noticed us too. So we accepted their call.

WAH! Ah Ma could not only hear us, she could hear Ah Ee too. This confused her. I could just hear what was going on in her mind. "Cis! Anak Derhaka! They must have planned for Ah Ee to go to England without us Lau Lang. How dare they! Ungrateful children!" But instead she said this "How come I can hear all of you at once?" We had to explain. She seemed appeased but not convinced.

We then lost Ah Ee to the office but continued our musings with Ah Ma and Ah Khong...which is another story.

Drive Safely

2009-06-12T21:01:00.003+01:00

Picture this. Two people. My Munchkin and I are bumbling down the road on the way home.

Munchkin: Mummy, be very careful
Me: Why?
Munchkin: Lots a cars, Mummy. On da road.
Me: There are aren't there? Lots of cars
Munchkin: Going beddy (very) fast, mummy.
Munchkin: Going on da motey-way (motorway)
Munchkin: Stop Mummy. At the light.
Me: What colour is the light?
Munchkin: Wed (Red is the colour of the week......everything is red. Last week it was Green)
Munchkin: Hold on tight now. Going beddy fast
Me: Why have we got to go fast, Munchkin?
Munchkin: Chasing the motey-bike man. 'as a 'elmet on. Chase 'im, Mummy.

Speech - as it is today

2009-06-11T21:08:00.002+01:00

I have tried to record some Munchisms (if nothing else for airing at occasions such as significant birthdays and special occasions). Here are a selection:

Everybody get NAKED! Everybody get very cold!

Want some Oatimilk (Oat milk)

Paaatutus (octopus) swimming underwater

Paaatutus naughty one, sit on the naughty step. There. BAD!

Munchkin's a boy, Daddy's a boy, Grandad is OLD MAN.

Teddy bear got sun glasses on (describing a panda)

Munchkin is very fed up now

No Ah Ee,Munchkin eating sausages at moment.

Don't iri-tee-tate me Daddy. Leave 'im alone now.

Peace at Last

2009-06-10T23:35:00.002+01:00

Wednesday nights are Munchkin and Mummy nights. Daddy goes off to try and be Spiderman but not before Munchkin has been fed, watered washed and watered again. Today was not different.....or so we thought.....

Most of the evening went off without a hitch. Munchkin was ready for bed and Daddy read the trilogy and then bade us farewell for the evening. I put Munchkin to bed after lots of cuddles, giggles and a head butt (that is another story, I am waiting in anticipation for the black eye I might have in the morning) After saying goodnight, I wandered downstairs. I busied myself with the usual evening time chores when heard sobbing, really sad sobbing. As this was somewhat out of character for the Munchkin, I dashed upstairs faster than a speeding bullet, faster than a locomotive, it's a bird, it's plane (oops getting a bit carried away, there!)

I burst through the door of Munchkin's bedroom, distraught with worry about what I would find. Was he ill, had he hurt himself, had he had a nightmare?

Standing there, tears pouring down his cheeks and sobs erupting, was Munchkin. He was beside himself. I gave him a cuddle and kisses and asked him what was wrong. "Mummy, bunny fell outta the bed", he sobbed pointing to the crumpled heap of cream fluff on the floor. I picked bunny up, returned him to Munchkin's outstretched arms and cuddled him again.

"Ok now, Mummy. Happy now. Bedtime in the bed"

As I lay him down again, bunny firmly clutched in his little hand, he said "Night night mummy, bunny happy now"

Peace restored!

One Munchkin and his Dad

2009-06-07T18:33:00.004+01:00

Munchkin's Dad has been busy today and as a consequence has not managed to spend very much time in the frolic zone. Munchkin has missed him so much so, as soon as Daddy emerged from the hard work zone upstairs, Munchkin attached himself, limpet stylie....

Before...
After

One can never have too many pairs of shoes!

2009-06-06T14:00:00.005+01:00

These ones come all the way from Texas!

These ones are his new trainers
Me thinks he quite likes them

The new footwear was installed this morning at approximately 1000. Four hours later, they are STILL on. It is bedtime in a short while and I am anticipating that negotiation skills as well as powers of influence will come into play.

Failing which bribes might be necessary to convince him that the shoes must go for a little rest too.

Rain, rain go away!

2009-06-06T13:58:00.002+01:00

Watch out rain, here comes the Munchkin!

The Proof is in the puddin'

2009-06-03T22:03:00.002+01:00

Little Puddin' - fast asleep the chair
Little Miss Puddin' - absolutely beautiful and perfect in every way!
(I am just a little teeny weeny bit biased)

The little misses got back from the land of supersize on Sunday where they have been living for one day past too long. But, now they are back! Mummy and Daddy had to be somewhere very important for the evening so the staff arrived promptly to find a very excited Little Miss and a fast asleep Little Puddin'.

The evening was spent catching up on the plot of Narnia whilst putting together a Disney princess puzzle (all 100 pieces). Intermissions for food, more food, drink and princess dressing-up were had. And a great time was had by all.

The cherry on top of the iced cake was Little Puddin' who upon waking from her slumber, beamed the biggest, brightest smile then proceeded to snuggle up with the rest of the pretend princesses awaiting the return of the wise man and his lady from the travels!

Oh Beautiful day!

One boy, his chick and Molly

2009-05-31T21:46:00.004+01:00

Oh Happy Day!

2009-05-31T21:30:00.002+01:00

It was a beautiful summer's day. The sun was shining. The birds were singing and the eagle? Well, the eagles and their eaglets landed this morning and crossed the border into Gloucestershire in time for lunch!

It's been a bright, bright, bright, Sun-shiny day!

Plug and Play

2009-05-31T21:19:00.003+01:00

Munchkin has been a bit of a snoop doggy dog recently and has found himself in many a sticky (more like well and truly STUCK) situations. During one of his travels he found this power supply. Looking at it knowingly, he draped it around himself (as demonstrated above) concluding with dramatically sticking the jack into his ear.

He then declared, "Charge him up, mummy. (S)witch 'im on"

What do you say to that?

Me and my....

2009-05-30T14:31:00.004+01:00

Robot!
Daddy made it......

Cuddle!

Hunky Dory

2009-05-27T14:53:00.004+01:00

Munchkin: Wassat, Daddy?

Daddy : I think it is the sunshine, Son....we don't see it very often though....

Munchkin : (What's it) Doin'?

Daddy : Just shining and minding its own...

Munchkin : Bis - Nars!

Whitsunday brought with it beautiful, warm sunshine. Quiet relief was felt in the village as it was the day of our annual village fete. We geared ourselves up to go after hatching a cunning plan i.e. put Munchkin to bed, take the baby monitor, job's a good 'un.

Things sort of went to plan. We put Munchkin to bed, got ready, took the baby monitor and headed the few hundred yards up the road to the fete. Then...Beeep! Beeep! Baby monitor said no! The link was lost and we would not be able to hear Munchkin.

We could see the fete from where we stood. So close, yet so out of reach. Then, we made a very brave decision. We could see our house from where we were going to be. Why not? So we made a rubbish parenting (copyright reserved) decision.

We had a drink with friends, enjoyed a nice afternoon in the sunshine then returned (two hours later) just as Munchkin was waking.

One small step for us, One giant LEAP of faith.

P/S We did go and check on him lots (we aren't THAT irresponsible)

Monaco

2009-05-27T14:50:00.004+01:00

The cars on the track go round and round, round and round, round and round.......
Ooh! That was a horrid crash....AGAIN! AGAIN! AGAIN!

P/S Yes, Ma, the bean bag is now full of beans...just like the Munchkin! So, 1 less thing to nag me about now, heh?

The many faces of Munchkin

2009-05-27T14:43:00.007+01:00

If you're happy and you know it, say Marmite!
In a galaxy,far, far away.........

Kissy, kissy, Miss Piggy....

Sur-PRISE!!!!!

Mmmm...

Those of you who recognise the shirt, have known me a VERY long time!

5 years in waiting

2009-05-22T11:44:00.000+01:00

Today is a good day. 5 years in waiting and certainly worth the wait.

It has been a struggle for the site and everyone working there but at long last, as a result of blood, sweat and tears, Oldbury Power Station has 2 running reactors, both exporting power to the grid! Happy Days!

One boy and his book

2009-05-16T22:18:00.004+01:00

All was quiet in the neightbourhood, the boy found a book and the book was good!

Gimme, gimme, gimme....

2009-05-16T22:14:00.002+01:00

Mummy and Daddy took Munchkin to Threshers to get 6 bottles of Chenin Blanc. Munchkin tried to open it with his scissors with very limited success. However, Daddy then opened the box......
Munchkin + Wine = Happiness.

Doin' it for myself!

2009-05-15T22:34:00.005+01:00

Mmmmm....I like yoghurt.

Yummy, yummy, yummy I've got yog in my tummy!

Delicious!

Teee heee hee! All gone! More?

Hammer, saw, bish, bosh....

2009-05-12T22:52:00.003+01:00

Munchkin hard at work with his tools.
And how very safety concious....ear defenders at the ready!

Reunited

2009-05-12T22:50:00.003+01:00

All together again!

And back again!

2009-05-12T22:45:00.004+01:00

Last Day - waiting for the ferry.
A little quiet time somewhere on the Aegean Sea

There.....

2009-05-11T22:42:00.010+01:00

Last week we have mainly been in Greece

Day 1 - Rhodes
Enjoying the local cuisine

Trying to look the part - with Fez (got the country a bit wrong though!)

Helping with the cooking

Ensnaring the local girls

A day out at the seaside

Fiesta in the village!

2009-04-25T15:40:00.005+01:00

What was supposed to be a day of rain, grey clouds and stong winds has turned into a beautiful,sunny spring day. And a good day for the local village festival. (note the matching squinting - it was "Sunny Day Mummy! Bright! 'urt eyes!"

As part of the festivities, the local emergency and rescue services were showing off their vehicles. Munchkin was made up. He got to ride in a police car and the nice police man even got him to press all the buttons to make the flashing lights come on.

T is seen here grinning nervously as the Munchkin managed to activate the windscreen wipers causing the leaflets held on to "Flap, flap, flap" which was of course, much more amusing.

We also watched some street dancing and a "Tall man mummy" (a man on stilts), some clowns and some mime artists.

A nice morning was had by all!

Ask and it shall be given unto you,

2009-04-24T23:04:00.004+01:00

Seek and you shall find....

How true those words ring today. My only hope is that we will continue to bathe in showers of blessing, to feel the warmth of the gift of love and to look into the dawn that is hope.

Who needs a chocolate egg when you can have a....

2009-04-18T22:23:00.002+01:00

Mini!

Munchkin and his mini called George!

The many faces of Munchkin

2009-04-18T21:20:00.006+01:00

Contented - I have just had mummy's toast and scrambled eggs and the crispy bits off daddy's bacon sarnie.

Thoughtful - which should I have first, my babycino, scrambled eggs, toast or crispy bacon?
Oh the choices!

I am just cool....too cool for words.

Please parents, can I have some MORE food? Anything will do. See? I will smile for it.

P/S Sorry Ah Ma, Ah Khong and Ah Ee, my very busy and uninspired mummy has not blogged for a while. I am sure she has done this just to avoid the MAJOR nag she might have got when we speak to you tomorrow.

This month we are mainly trying to....

2009-04-05T17:07:00.004+01:00

sing. This is Munchkin's new favourite activity. Singing...is perhaps a loose way of describing it but I leave you to decide for yourselves (ignore the tuneless idiot in the background)

And another for good luck

Hmm..not quite a choirboy..but his full repertoire makes interesting listening. For instance,

Baa Baa B(l)ack Sh!t havver any Wooooooool? No mummy....all gone!

Dingle Balls, Dingle Balls, Dingle balls awayyyyyy!!!

Perhaps I should write all these down and publish a collection of alternative lyrics for these childhood tunes....in Munch-speak. Now there is a thought. Hmmmm.....

Amazing Grace

2009-04-03T08:45:00.002+01:00

A special day bringing with it blessings abundant and a response to a long standing prayer.

So, through the fog that is enveloping us this morning, the sun will shine through.

The best laid plans.....

2009-04-02T21:17:00.002+01:00

We have been very organised this year. Knowing that it would be Poppins' big day on April 1st. So we wandered out on Saturday and got her a lovely card with lots of pretty little cupcakes on the front....just like the ones she helps Munchkin make on special occasions. We also happen to know that Poppins' has a very big weakness for chock-lyt so we popped a big box of chock-lyt in the bag too.

Come P-Day....disaster. I forget to pop the Poppins' present in the car and we arrive at Poppins' sans present and full of apologies. As a last ditch, I suggest to Mr Poppins' that perhaps a person as lovely as Poppins' requires 2 birthdays like the queen. Mr Poppins' then went to fetch the birthday Poppins'

I popped Munchie on my knee and started to get his coat and hat off while telling him what a special day it was and that he should be especially nice to Poppins on her special day.

Mr Poppins' appeared round the corner and declared "Here she is!" as Poppins' popped her head round the door. Munchkin looked up at her, bounced a'la Tigger on my lap and declared, with a big grin "(H)appy Buff-day Cher!"

Tears and cuddles all round. Another Magic Munchkin Moment!

P/S We were also treated to a rendition of (h)appy buff-day to yeouwwwww! all the way home!

Know your place, woman.

2009-03-28T22:36:00.002Z

I am in human minority in this household. If not for the furry ones, I would be truly and absolutely outnumbered.

Daddy is always the hero. When broken things reappear fix, "Daddy fixed it, better now" would be the declaration from a very pleased Munchkin. A few nights ago, Munchkin declared at bedtime, "Daddy here now, Toby OK now". Sometimes only Daddy will do like when the Munchkin's milk it a tad on the warm side "Daddy, cool it down, please" And when the deed is done "Better now" is pronounced. Every morning Munchkin sits at the top of the stairs and shouts "Daaaaadddy, get me, please" "Carry him, please"

Mummy? Well, Mummy knows her place. Mummy is the name called out when Munchkin is not well, particularly when projectile vomiting or feeling very, very hot because of a temperature or in pain. Mummy also has her uses. "Get it, please, Mummy" "That one, get it" Or a popular one this week has been "Mummmmmmy! Messy....Tidy up, mummy" "Mummy, clean it, please"

However, today, I was well and truly put in my place, I walked into the Munchkin's bedroom tonight to find him cuddled up with his Daddy. I sat down and Munchkin looked at me and said "Mummy, stink"

Hmm....perhaps there was too much garlic in that lamb stew I had this evening. Note to self to be careful of what is said whilst in ear shot of the word sponge from now on.

'appy Mummy Day, Mummy!

2009-03-23T21:23:00.002Z

Magic moments are made of words like these.

It has been a rough few weeks on the health front. Munchkin is much "Better now, Mummy!" I have yet to turn the corner although T, who caught the lergy from me is well on his way to being mended.

Still Mothering Sunday dawned, Munchkin was sounding very cheerful upon waking, singing happily in his cot at about 0730. We listened with amusement and were just getting ready to rise and shine when it all stopped - he had fallen back to sleep again. So we followed his lead and didn't wake till a good hour and a bit later.

Munchkin had already presented me with a little posy of flowers, a little bookmark (which Poppins had helped him make with his own fair hands) and a little box with a lovely little verse written on it (which, by the way made me cry!). He also (with the help of daddy) picked a little card for me. "Mummy", he said as he presented it proudly to me "Toby roped it (wrote it)", "Tiger in it" "Open it, Mummy"

However, Munchkin does like to render his mummy useless and this time he excelled himself. On the prompting of his daddy, Munchkin looked at me, grinned the cheekiest grin and said, clear as a bell "Happy Mummy Day, mummy!". He then threw his chubby little arms around my neck and nestled his head into my shoulder for a cuddle. "Mummy, Luffly"

And a luffly day it was. The sun was shining, the birds were singing and the echo of "'appy Mummy Day" will stay with me for a long time to come.

How much snot....

2009-03-19T21:28:00.003Z

can you sniff snort snort if you sniff snort sniff snort sniff?

Too much....for the past 2 weeks, we have mainly been producing snot. Munchkin is well on the way to snot free-ness (everything crossed), I am producing significantly minimised volumes today after having to spend yesterday afternoon horizontal, drifting in and out of sleep, accompanied by 2 furry hot water bottles and very bad tv and T has now been passed the "produce snot in vast quantities" baton.

Still, today I welcomed back my sense of taste and smell which had been having a short hiatus (for the past week and a half). The little men who have been hammering away in my head for the past week have decided that they need hammer no more. The family of cacti that had taken residence in my throat for what seems like the last month then sprouted feathery, tickly flowers seems to be less active today.

Turned a corner we have....just in time for the weekend.

Mummy.....sing.....

2009-03-08T13:45:00.003Z

This is a very typical Munchkin command. Just to be precise, I also get told what song it is I am to start singing before I get too carried away and break into random song or any song of my choice (perish the thought that I still, might have a say in things.

A typical repertoire would be:

Munchkin: Mummy....sing
Me: What would you like me to sing today?
Munchkin: Ah ee...song....
Me: Which one?
Munchkin: Dingle Balls Dingle Balls......(a)wayyyyyyy!
(Incidently, this is the cue to start Jingle Bells)

Other favourites are: (real titles in italics)

Postie Pat........Cat.............Mornin' (Postman Pat)
Builder-der...sing it (Bob the Builder)
Teapot...(s)tout (I'm a little teapot)
Animals.....(hu)rrah (hu)rrah (The animals went in two by two....)
(S)Par -get-ti (On top of spaghetti)
Jesus...Ah ee (Jesus loves me)

I might have to write all these interpretations down (it seems that I have now, here) as no one by T and I (with the exception of Ah Ee and Poppins) understand what on earth he is on about most of the time. Ah Ee and Poppins seem to have a built in dictionary of Munchkin. Both can hold perfectly normal conversations with him and seem to have him giggling away most days. Ah Ee my weekend Poppins....and Poppins my weekday Ah Ee.

In the jungle, the mighty jungle.....

2009-03-07T15:38:00.004Z

Ride 'em cowboy!
Then get off him again.

Repeat the above, for oooh about half and hour, have a drink and a snack then re-run loop. Between this and my virtual babysitters, I have had a pretty calm morning. While the cat is away, the mice shall.....befriend a little tiger!

Close Encounters......

2009-03-06T22:23:00.002Z

Friday afternoon is mummy and Munchkin time with Munchkin's mates. However, it was called off today due to snot, drool, teeth, phlegm...the usual so Daddy had to put up with our company rather than have his free afternoon to do important Daddy things like, sleep, snooze, snore etc etc. We decided to head into town as it was a rather nice (and dry) afternoon so after doing the rounds at the butcher's amongst others we decided to grab a cuppa and a piece of cake at the usual haunt.

Orders were placed and Munchkin was strapped into his seat. All was happy, food and drink arrived and we were all eating and drinking happily when something appeared next to Munchkin. This little something was...well.....little, very blonde and female. Munchkin turned round and waved at her and gave her a little smile. She waved back and then just stood there...staring at me. I wasn't sure whether to engage or to ignore. I chose the former...but was greeted by a steely stare. The silent starer then proceeded to cough at Munchkin and attempted to lick his hand. We ignored this....and the behaviour continued (well, at least she was consistent and predictable)

It got to the point where we were feeling a tad uncomfortable so Daddy walked over the to owner of the silent starer and pointed out that she was coughing (open mouthed and quite deliberate, I might add) on Munchkin. The hand licking wasn't mentioned (thought that would be a tad freaky even for the mother)

Strange or what?

This week we have mainly been.....

2009-03-04T22:24:00.003Z

Counting

Munchkin: Mummy, Sleeping Bag....
Me: Yes...what are those on your sleeping bag?
Munchkin: Cars, busses.....Vroommmm. Lots.......one, two, tee, pour, paive, six, sevarn, aight, nine, ten. Yay!!!!!!
Me:

Throwing Strops

Me: Munchkin, come and get undressed so you can get in the bath.
Munchkin: No. No. No. No. (run) Awaaaaaaaay!
Me: Come on, Munchkin. Time for your bath!
Munchkin: No! Wellies on. Wellies on......IN bath
Me: No....take your wellies off and get in the bath
Munchkin: MELTDOWN, Scream, hiss, spit <10> Whimper...Bath Mummy.

Being nice

Me: Munchkin, time to go upstairs and get ready for bed. Take your shoes off and go upstairs then
Munchkin: Mummmmmyyyyyy, Come Onnnnnn!
Me:
Munchkin: Mummy bath time.
Me: Up the stairs then
Munchkin proceeds all the way up the stairs and promptly starts cleaning his teeth upon entry into the bathroom!!!!!!

Singing

Munchkin: Mummy, See
Me: What would you like to see?
Munchkin: Postie Pat, Postie Pat.......Cat....Mornin'........Vannnnnn
Me: Anything else?
Munchkin: Else? Builder-der.......fix it.......CAN!
Me : Anything else?
Munchkin: Thomas Cheeky one........

Give me strength.
Me: Anything else

Random ramblings of a tired mind

2009-02-28T20:27:00.002Z

It has been a tiring week. Le Munchie has been poorly since last weekend and is only now starting to perk back up to his usual cheerful, happy self. Lots of thought have been put into decisions that in hindsight might as well have been spur of the moment "Whatever", sleep hasn't been fantastic (I say this as a thoroughly spoilt person that usually gets an uninterrupted 7 or 8 hours a night). I could go on....but I won't.

However, all that being said and done, today has been a good day. Munchkin has been very entertaining and surprisingly, not very naughty at all. He has eaten everything presented to him and then some, he has slept when he was supposed to sleep, he has been a joy to be with and we even managed to work it such that I sat down for my supper just after 2000...the earliest I have sat down to eat in nearly two years!

My dear sister and Mama kept me from being lonely today which has made me miss them even more. It is quite amazing what my virtual babysitters can do. I can leave the Munchkin entranced by his Ah Ee and Mamah, singing, reading or indulging in general conversation although sometimes he does wander off with the phone to share with them some more unique sights around the house like the cat litter, the inhabitants of "under the dishwasher" and various other places of interest.

I am just about to indulge in some ironing then I think I am off to rest my weary head with the hope that tomorrow will be filled with more reasons to give thanks and feel blessed...and maybe, just maybe the sun will shine too.

So is he.......

2009-02-22T14:39:00.009Z

His mummy's boy or

his daddy's son?

Or just, Munchkin?

At the end of a VERY long day.

2009-02-19T23:14:00.002Z

We didn't get home till way past Munchkin bedtime today...for good reason.

I like to call it a celebration of life. A good life, a kind life, a happy life. A life that touched many, a life that was the basis for so many more. Today was such a day. There were tears, but far from being tears of sorrow and regret, I like to think of them as tears of joy for a new freedom gained. Tears of joy for a spirit now free. Tears of joy for blessing of the old life and the anticipation of new life.

Although the message was one of good bye, it was very much, for me anyway, a message of "you go get 'em!"

So, in memory of a very special lady, All is well.