I've had the most fulfilling day in a long time. I felt almost normal again. I was up bright and early with Nick and had him breakfasted and dressed and myself all ready and out the door within an hour - mind you Brad had a nice sleep in and just came out to say goodbye (no worries, it didn't even phase me as it would usually). i went to my support group today for the first time since before Xmas. Nicky's graduated to the next class and I was a little apprehensive to be with the new mums but I'd already met them before so my anxiety was unnecessary. They ended up being a really nice bunch of ladies, albeit with a few problems, and I really look forward to seeing them again next week.

Nick was so good in the group. C and R (the counselors) were so impressed to see him walking, last time they saw him he was still crawling. He played so well with the other kiddies, he made me swell with pride. I felt really good too because I'd taken in some of Nick's toys and all the kids loved them. Nicky shared beautifully. What a good little boy!!! I was really impressed with the way he played with little boy C. They were sharing a shape sorting toy and taking turns to put the shapes in. He was so patient waiting and I was amazed that he put the right shape in first go every time. I haven't seen him do this before. His shape sorter is a v-tech car and he loves just putting the shapes in and put of the boot- he would try to put them in the holes but would need a bit of help. Wow, pretty impressed!!  At the end we sung songs and Nicky grinned and giggled the whole time. it was adorable. My heart was melting. I think I fell in love with him all over again.

Afterward, I was in a mood to shop. Can I tell you...... I haven't been shopping since Xmas (oops I lie I bought some presents for my niece and nephews but that's it. I haven't splurged on Nick or I and it was well overdue.) I bought some great outfits. I was pretty prud of myself too. They were real bargains and absolutely schmicko. I can't wait to put him in them. So cool!!

This afternoon I took Nick to the pool and we had a beaut time. He loves the water and crawled all over the place - with me following him a little anxiously and playing and splashing. I took him for a swim in the deeper water and he did a bit of a kick and paddle keeping his head up and arms out. He looked so cute. I haven't taken him to swimming lessons yet. i think I might wait a bit. He's pretty happy for the moment just going paddling around with me. And I like getting in the water anyway. So it suits me fine.

When we got home I think I might have been expecting too much for Brad to have cooked our dinner. I'd rung and asked him to take out some chicken breasts out of the freezer. Brad's such a good cook so it was natural for me to assume that he might have gotten stuck into. When I got home I found the chicken on the sink still defrosting and he was in asleep. Not to worry! I got straight to it and cooked up a pretty slap bang meal in pretty good timing.

Dishes done, Nicky was off to the bath, then it was milk time, a little play, a story and then bed. He nearly got the better of me but I gave him a nice rub on the tummy for half a minute, I said 'night beautiful', walked out and didn't hear a peep. Silence is golden... that was the first time he's gone down to sleep without a hitch in at least two months. I felt sooooooo good. What a beautiful little boy. Must say he has had sore gums and a bit of a tummy ache at bed time lately so I've been a bit lenient. Bedtime was pushing back later and later and I thought we'd never get back on track. Fingers crossed we can stay this way.

Well, I'm feeling exceedingly happy tonight and about to take a look at some new advice. I just read a really uplifting piece about family love by Nell and that gave me fresh motivation and inspiration to be a little kinder to Brad but also expect a little more respect in return. Hmmmmm  we'll get there... Anyway must dash. Want to spend my Minti time a little more wisely than this (Shush Puddha -my cat keeps on meowing, I've fed him some nice skinless sausages that I cooked on the BBQ just before (spoilt!!). He ate them and he's still meowing..... what is his problem?? I think I should take him to the vet)

Really must go
yas
's Hayley xxx