Saturday 23 November 2013

Zachary's Progress and Preparing our new house

We've completed the purchase of our new house in Stoke Hill, Exeter and have spent the last few weeks doing it up a little before moving in. Zachary hasn't seen much of the house yet, as we've made every effort to keep him away from the wallpaper, paint and new carpet - his Grandma Bumble has been looking after him. 

Scraping the walls
 

Zachary jumps on a roll of carpet

We've now finished the painting and have lovely new looking bedrooms, just needing a few finishing touches of curtains and lampshades. The plan is to move in during the middle of the coming week, so it's back to the familiarity of shifting boxes, lifting furniture and unpacking. It's satisfying to know that this time it's more permanent. 

Daddy uncovers a hidden fireplace

Wallpaper gone and ready to paint


Zachary's new room is now turquoise

Zachary has developed a lot in the last few weeks. His understanding of our speech is excellent and he can now answer 'yes' when you ask him something and shakes his head for 'no'. His favourite song is row row row your boat which he requests by saying 'row row' and he moves backwards and forwards in a rowing action, as well as lifting his arms and screaming 'ahh!' after the crocodile comes.

Grown up little boy

Zachary always wants to go outside, especially if he sees a door opening and he has a little tantrum (stamping his feet, waving his arms and crying loudly) if he doesn't get to go out. He is now walking extremely well and is very stable (and quick!) on his feet.

He eats well, although he can be a little fussy with savoury food (particularly veg), especially if he sees something else he'd prefer. He loves sweet things and is a real fruit monster - if nothing else, he'll always eat fruit.

Zachary still loves books, especially those with flaps (although lots of the flaps have been pulled off) and enjoys toys that make a noise. Peek a boo is still one of his favourites and he loves wearing sunglasses.

Saturday 9 November 2013

The South-East, the North-West and Wales

This October half term has involved a lot of travelling. We travelled to London and stayed with Bev and Caleb for the first weekend. We were delighted to be able to celebrate with Pete and Josie on their wedding day. Daddy was an usher and Zachary had a great time running up and down, following the bigger children.

Playing in the creche room

Chasing Elijah

Feeding a younger baby a pen lid

The happy couple looking beautiful

We then travelled to the opposite end of the country, to Lancashire, to visit Swith's parents and some of his siblings.


Playing the piano with Uncle

We enjoyed a visit to a Victorian underground reservoir which is soon to close to build houses.

Wandering around the empty reservoir

It was pretty busy, as everyone rushed in to see what it was like

Zachary tried out his new wellington boots and splash suit from Grandma Jeanette and Grandad Harry. He loved walking along, holding hands with Grandad Harry and standing in the middle of a very large puddle, kicking his feet to make a big splash.

A fun but slow walk

The inspiration for Thornfield Hall in Jane Eyre

Eating porridge with Grandma Jeanette

We all had a lovely time visiting Zachary's Great Aunt Eileen and Great Uncle Mike. He was given a lovely gift of a new outfit and some soft crocheted blankets. 


Zachary models his new hat and jumper; unfortunately he was sick all over it on the way home

Then after a long delay-ridden trip, we finally made it to Cardiff to visit friends, party and see fireworks.

Zachary is thrilled by the fireworks