Today has been much much better. I have been calmer, not at all shouty. The children have been calmer too, with much less fighting and screeching. It’s hard to know which behaviour leads to which really, but I’m sure we all influence each other. Gina posted a link recently to a lovely blog post about how a frazzled mother equals frazzled family, and I really believe this is true.I still feel ill today but much better emotionally.

This was going to be a very positive post, until I heard some very sad news a short time ago. I can’t post about it on here as it’s not my place, but it is really colouring my mood for a number of reasons. I so wish things had been different and can only offer hugs and support to the special people it affects.

Anyway, bird group this morning. It was fantastic apart from a child being heinously sick. A child who had been playing at the sandpit right next to Holly and touching the same toys. Anyone who really knows me will realise the effect this will have on me for the next few days until I know one way or the other. I won’t dwell on it though The children had a great time, collecting leaves on the way to the bird hide to make tree collages (see below), doing jigsaws, reading books, singing, dancing, playing.

This afternoon has consisted of a few chores (finally finished cleaning the kitchen – hurrah! – and Alfie’s new independent weeing standing up rather than on the seat means frequent cleaning of the downstairs toilet are imperative lol!) and lots of play. We popped out to the bank and picked up a couple of Christmas activity books from the pound shop which the kids enjoyed painting. We did lots of jigsaws, lots of computer games, lots of talking, cooking, just being together.

Oh, and bizarre occurrence. Sutton Coldfield Roofcare van pulled up outside and pushed 9 cheques through the door, each dated for a different month up to July 2010. The total is still much less than half what he owes us, and we’ll see if they cash or bounce, but it’s a sign he’s getting worried (or growing a conscience???) . I cashed the first £100 one today sow atch this space………………..