Luna

I couldn't believe it the other day when I found Archie in the studio drawing his new friend Chickie. He never draws! And chickie was sitting there in a quiet composure until the drawing was completed! Madness! Have wondered lately if Archie's reluctance to draw has anything to do with all the coddling from Perthes ' disease he gets. The inactivity, the lack of opportunity to build hand strength out on the monkey bars like other kids. With the latest x ray results we've relaxed that a bit so is he feeling freer to try out other stuff too? More confident with his motor skills? Or is it just the inspiration gained from our trip last week to Canberra's new National Portrait Gallery?

Celebrating today! Archies's latest x rays show excellent bone growth over the last six months. The little femoral head has nearly re- ossified (grown back) and done so in a pretty good shape. What this means is no more worries about major hip operations and that in a years time the disease process will be nearing its end. The Growth plate continues to look a bit dodgy but even that wont have huge ramifications. A happy, lucky and grateful day.

Ruby and I just had a weekend in Sydney with my Angela and Clara. It was great to spend some time with them and get to know baby Clara better as she has grown so much since we saw her six weeks ago. Vowed not to go another six weeks without seeing her. Her current obsession is "puppies" the same obsession shared by Archie who is five. She would outdo him though I'm sure. Archie draws the line at softly chanting "puppies, puppies" to himself every night before he drops off.

Was concerned to see this outside Ruby's bedroom yesterday, trying to sell off her rubbish (empty cans of impulse and unwanted badge) to passers by. Am wondering if my habit of selling anything not nailed down on ebay is morally damaging my children. Archie will come accross some old broken bit of uselessess from his toy box and ask "Can you sell this on ebay mum?". Have cheered myself somewhat by the honesty system Ruby is spruiking her wares with - trusting that if the goods are gone $2 will be left in their place. So far no takers.