Thirty-Nine, Dudes!

It's been quiet her in Mogantosh town. I've been battling with a low-grade virus for control of the body, and it's been winning. Feeling a bit defeated by the house, the kids, and life this week. No energy to get on top of things. Holiday malaise.

Yesterday, at breakfast, it all fell apart. Ivy took a bite of her banana and then refused any more. 'Why should I?' she said. 'Because it's disrespectful to the banana!' I fretted hopelessly, as my internal self regarded me with pity. Teddy pulled his banana in two and then sobbed for ten minutes because I couldn't put it back together.

We're all just a bit off kilter.

But then my birthday appeared! I was woken by a puddle of children bearing a coffee machine, snotty cuddles and lots of chocolate. Keith produced Eggs Benedict and Ivy helped me eat it. Then she helped me me set the equipment up, and our first round of latte and cino-babies were superb. I told the kids we'll be having elevenses from now on and practicing the art of conversation. Ivy said 'Yes, like when Teddy did push me over in the kitchen.' Gossipy, dramatic, slightly bitchy- a good start.

Keith went back to work in the caravan and I pottered around, trying to get the house in order and stroking my coffee machine. Went nowhere, saw nobody. I felt the love of friends and family via Facebook and singing telephone calls, but didn't actually have to put a bra on.

Last night we split a cupcake and then convened the Family Band for a session. Ivy (who only answers to Laura Ingalls this week) rocked some crazy harmonica. Teddy trashed the set. Keith and I got some excellent harmony once or twice.

I love this crew of mine so much.