Well here we are one year on and how Mabel has grown from the little squiggle she was to the baby bear she is now. We have both realised how lucky we have been as squiggs has been an almost perfect baby, ticking all the boxes; sleep, eating, crying (teething has been relatively easy) and just the happiest baby, always smiling.

First Birthday lasted for the traditional 3 days, as begun by Alice (who seems to make it 10 days, from birthday to Christmas Eve.

Saturday we entertained around 25 persons, family and friends. And for the first time all siblings were present, and all 7 of our children in one place. Pictures below.

 

With Gilbert and George

Charlie 30th party at Lord Edwards

 

Conor down for the weekend.

Wow…only 1 month to the year

We had a night on our own in Brighton on Monday 2nd. Stayed in Drakes on the sea front. Very relaxing and great to have some time on our own. Drunk too much, as you should.

First Standon Calling, (8th for us), with Mabel.

Friday night solo for old dad as Alice was at Mallards for M’s birthday. Meant to go to Stortford Beer Festival but slow moving as usual at Mallards meant that it was too late.

Had a lovely evening and saw all the bands I wanted, but was odd on my own. Finished around 9.30 and Alice picked me up since Mabel was a bit unsettled.

Saturday and Sunday we all attended. Finished both days around 5pm, heyho that is how it goes with a baby bear. Just happy to be there, and weather was good which makes all the difference.

Bought tickets for next year on way out Sunday afternoon….

 

I have been getting a tad grumpy and upsetting Alice, who is also a bit tired and sensitive. Mabel is now fully active, mobile and as Alice says “full on”.

We have realised that we have only had two occasions where we have been out together since Mabel has been born so we went out for a few drinks and meal last night. Lola babysat.

Quick drink at The Cock, food at the Blue Olive and grown up drinks at Baroosh and The Star.

The Blue Olive is a new restaurant, Turkish food. We had a messe to start, cold and hot, freshly made and delicious. Then a main course which filled us up completely. With wine £50; great service and value.

Speciality G&T at Baroosh, naughty last drink with mostly students in The Swan and home. Much needed break from our wonderful baby, but of course she was our main source of conversation….that’s how it goes.