Joshua Kei Starke arrived in September last year. He weighed 9lbs 11 oz when he emerged into the world, which gave not only his Daddy and Mommy a shock, but also his poor Po Po as well (because Sandy had to have an emergency C-section). Anyway, he was warmly welcomed into the family and his sister has been fussing over him ever since. He is now nearly 15 months - a sturdy toddler and fairly big for his age. An occasional squabble here and there with his big sister can’t be entirely avoided. Incidences like Joshua standing in front of the telly pressing all the buttons can cause great distress to his big sister. Other provocations include taking away critical pieces while Zoey is trying to complete a puzzle or even adding a few strokes to some of her painting masterpieces. Anyway, both of them still adore each other and play well together.
We had a big family reunion (with the Starkes and Boeys) in August when they flew in to Bristol to celebrate Joshua's dedication. It was lovely to spend time with our families and wonderful for the three cousins – Zoey, Joshua and Ashling – to spend some time together again.
Zoey turned five in October and started in the reception class at a school that is only a stone’s throw from our house. I am glad we can walk to school everyday and avoid the stress of driving and parking every morning. Zoey enjoys school immensely and has made some good friends. Occasionally, she will come home with a dodgy rhyme or two and take great pleasure in our horrified reaction.
As we embrace the wintry weather in UK (snow forecast for the end of the week!), we look forward to celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let me take this opportunity to wish you all a Blessed Christmas!
