Birthday news!

Well J is now 8 and we have almost recovered from the shock! He had a combined party with 2 other boys (twins) who are 8 the same week. They were all allowed to invite 5 guests each and we went to the local pool we are members of which we can get privately - its about 12x4 metres and indoor so perfect. We only allowed 3 days for invites, foolishly thinking we might get about 50% response, and all but 2 turned up!!! 16 x 8 year olds make an incredible racket - we were all deaf by the end of it, but they had a great time. That was held the day before J actual birthday, so he was a bit quiet next day, all partied out! Very much enjoyed a simple day with the aforementioned twins coming over for lunch, and then they made 'experiments' in the back yard for the rest of the day. Apparently they were creating a lifeform, out of everything they could convince me to give them from the kitchen cupboard and garden stuff. Seemed very disappointed with the disgusting gloop wouldnt arise from its bowl and walk, no matter what magic words they said. Eventually they decided the problem was they hadnt made it any bones!! J was v pleased with his presents, a dragonology book which he has devoured, a Harry Potter book (also devoured) and an introductory chemistry set - thus the rush on experimenting. So a very successful day. Meanwhile, R went climbing that day - actually I think he went for a days outing on the train!! He spent about 6 hours on trains getting somewhere that he described as being very like Linfield in Sydney (it was near Tonbridge for those who are interested) - so he wasnt too impressed. He took the camera so no shots of birthday, but here is one of the climbing - parents will be duly impressed with these priorities no doubt.