This week...

I must get back into the habit of writing this blog regularly as when I have to write about a week at a time I can't for the life of me remember what has happened in any detail.  The two main subjects that stick in my mind are India's Ballet exam results and Rui's birthday.  On Thursday India found out that she had passed her Grade two Ballet exam with Distinction and had come third in her class on points, her class is very strong and I was so pleased with her for coming third.  When I told India her results she very nearly cried and so did I, it was wonderful to see her pride and excitement!  Good for you India, you worked really hard and kept your nerve on the day - bravo!!

Today was Rui's birthday and for his special treat last night we went to a local restaurant with his best friend and had a good meal, then Mark took all the other kids home and I had the privilege of escorting Rui and his friend to watch "War Horse" at the cinema.  I had heard it was a weepy film and did really well to only cry at the end, Rui managed not to cry but his friend was cut from the same cloth as me and cried too!  This morning the kids had a birthday breakfast of pancakes, ice cream and maple syrup and then this afternoon members of the family came around for a cup of tea and a slice of naughty chocolate cake.  I like the kids birthdays, it gives you the chance to remember how fantastic they are...