Run, Run, Run

Last weekend we headed down to London to cheer on Debbie's cousin Rob in the 2008 Flora London Marathon. We were thrilled and proud to watch him up there with some of the best - finishing in an amazing 2:40:42 and 5th in his age group. Despite some apprehension about taking Ben into central London on such a busy day, we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone. The atmosphere was fantastic, and we soon found ourselves rooting for everyone, and joining in the cheers and clapping for each participant as they went past our spot on Victoria Embankment at around 24 miles.

Ben conveniently slept in his pushchair for his own record time, and woke just in time to congratulate Rob and admire his medal - and to stand with Grandad shouting "run, run, run" to the masses approaching their final 600 metres.

After negotiating the crowds, we had time to test out Ben's new reins in Trafalgar Square, where we took him to see the lions - there was something special about watching him toddle around such an iconic site. After a brief rendezvous with Kay and Dave, followed by tea at the Tilleys (our generous hosts for the weekend), we returned home exhausted but buzzing from our great weekend.

April (snow) showers

We all had a surprise when we woke up this morning - snow! Apart from a powdery covering over Easter, this was the first proper snow since February last year, and we had begun to give up hope of a chance for Ben to play in snow this year. As it happens, the novelty wore off quite fast, and he decided it was much more fun playing with his new dustpan and brush set inside. And we think he may be the first child in history to determinedly refuse attempts to encourage him to eat the snow. Oh well, maybe next year...

Kay is back!

At the end of February Kay returned to the UK after 2 years working in Ecuador, and we finally got to meet up with her and Dave last week. We all spent a lovely day in Stratford, catching up and sharing lots of laughs. Ben loved having his godparents to stay, and was particularly keen to tell them all about the Hoover - his current (longstanding) fascination. Then Debbie had a real treat - a girlie day out shopping with Kay while Ben was with his childminder! Like London buses, another girlie day followed soon after as Debbie travelled up to Manchester on Saturday for the all-important bridesmaid dress hunt. Meanwhile Daddy and Ben had a boys day at home, including a trip to Homebase!

On Sunday we got a glimpse of spring sunshine, and headed down to the castle to give Ben a chance to explore and make the most of his new-found mobility. We have looked forward to photos like these for ages - playing chase and catch, and Ben literally getting "into" everything.