It seems like only yesterday that Minnie was born, rather than the two years it's actually been.

Yesterday, as is now our custom on their birthdays, I took the day off work and we made a day of it. This time round we went to Drayton Manor theme park. Here's daddy and daughter waiting for Thomas to get a move on:

Isn't she the cutest thing you've ever seen? Don't you dare say no!

You can't help but love Minnie. More than just being cute she's got a real character about her and is constantly making us laugh. Even when she's being naughty I struggle not to laugh. Already she's learning to exploit her cuteness.

Having said that she can, like most kids, drive you mad at times. Not that I'd change that though. In fact I wouldn't change a single thing about any of my kids. Even their most annoying traits. It all goes towards making them who they are and I love them just as they are.

Here's Minnie on the eve of her birthday at granny-grandad's having her mark on the wall updated (only a true Howlett would use a spirit level):

Here she is at the garden party we had for her on Sunday, helping herself to the jam. She likes her food, does our Minnie.

Blowing out the candles on her cake:

It feels like it's been her birthday for about a week, but we've all enjoyed it. Makes all the difference having a summer birthday.

Watching Them Grow

The other custom of ours is to take a photo of the kids on their birthday, laying on my chest. To help manage the photos I've put together a website to hold them all. Click the image below to go there.

Notice the one constant in each photo? My stripey dressing gown hanging on the back of the door. Wonder how old they'll be before that goes...