Today we did lots of shopping in Reading and, after a little sleep, we went to see the developmental doctor.

Nathan scored well in visual and language tests (jigsaws, describing pictures, talking), but poorly in manipulative and locomotive tests (building blocks, drawing, running jumping).

She recommended were increased physical excersizes, such as Tumble Tots, an increase in messy play to try to reduce the lad's fastidiousness, and that Nathan's special shoes (with high ankles and built up insoles) be replaced with normal shoes once these get too small. The doctor believes that the lad's feet need more stimulation to develop.

Today we went to Beale Park, the first time in nearly a year. As usual Nathan is so much more able to enjoy himself now. Last year he was just starting to cruise. This time (with a bit of help) he was climbing the climbing frames. It was a really lovely day.

We went to a local car boot sale in the morning, and picked up some metal toys and a Thomas the Tank Engine back pack.

In the afternoon mum went bowling, and the lad came to visit at tea time. He was on good form, laughing, saying hello to everyone and climbing all over a nearby climbing frame.

We visited the WI (Women's Institute) market today. Nathan chose, and ate for the first time, a smartie cake.

Granny came today and Nathan had a great time. He had a nice little sleep on the swing seat in the back garden.

We had a busy day today. First we voted. Nathan put the papers in the ballot box and closed the slot.

Then onto the library, some food on a bench in Woodley town centre, and a nice long sleep.

In the afternoon we saw Nathan's consultant at the children's clinic. We love going there because they've got so many toys. She's pleased with the lad's progress, and the G-tube definitely looks like a more distant prospect than before.

Sentence of the day was "Come down here birds, don't fly away on the fence".

First thing was an appointment with the dietitian. Nathan weighs 10.1kg now (22 lbs 2 oz) which is a slight gain, better than nothing, and probably not as good as it would have been if the lad hadn't just been ill. He's also grown, he's now 86cm (2ft 10").

We went to Hickory Dickory Dock today. Nathan enjoyed it as usual. Then back home for some loafing around. Well we did play in the garden, and Nathan ate celery for the first time.

We went to toddler group after half term. Nathan toddled around, although he's probably not quite recovered from his illness and the holiday. He was a bit clingy.

After a short sleep we went off to Whoosh with some new friends. Nathan still wasn't on top form. Perhaps he'll be up to par tomorrow.