man on a mission...[/]

Malta is a small island and after a little time exploring, it can become quite limiting. In many ways. It's a bit like an antiquated seaside town, past it's prime and slightly neglected. Not too much to do for an active TheO with a hyper-investigating mind. The old local swings could cause an injury worse than a Korean Cat-Bike so it therefore seems quite natural to encourage the little lad to play at home. Despite the huge expanse of the rolling penthouse, the terrace has become quite small for such an inquiring mind. Games that the cheeky chap like to play include:

Over the Edge! - Things that bounce when dropped from five floors up.
The Plunge! - How many things can you fit down the toilet.
What's in the Cupboard? - Who cares, it's coming out!
Toothpaste - Find the hidden toothpaste and squirt it everywhere!

It's like a round of 'It's A Knockout' in our very own flat! One can not have enough plastic to keep the boy happy (not the Visa type) so as well as the games, domestic appliances have become part of the playground. However I will be making sure that 'Visiting The North Pole' doesn't become a firm favourite!!



What do you mean, no buses after 8.30?

This whole thing is like a cross country race that never finishes, I'm always knackered and there really are not too many (any) chances to lie in, sit around, look at the wall or plan a decent night out at the pub (there are only bars). The temperature has started to rise over here as have the increased frequency of tourists from Yorkshire in their sixties and Dutch people who look as if they regret deciding on that 3 star in Buggiba instead of the all inclusive in Thailand. The look of regret eh! Ha.

Regardless. With the little lads progression from static to moving object, both the good lady and I are on constant eye patrol. The Easter break was spent taking the young man to all the local customary festivitiies and chain pulling that makes this such a joyous time. We managed Sunday lunch in an exquisite neck of the woods, surrounded by fantastic yachts and restaurants, but the prodigal son just wants to climb stairs and shout at people, in a friendly way of course. More wine waiter…



Just what was needed, lots of chocolate for Theo….

Back from a brief spell in the cold. Yet another great opportunity for the good lady to visit Oxford Street on what I am told is a necessary part of TheO's education, but I am sure we did Hamley's last time!! Anyway, the little lad had time to visit London Zoo and also go walking in the Peak District. His ramblling was not up to much however, and the young man had to be carried most of the way. 'Good old dad' still echoes in my ears! Can someone please recommend a Chiro!



One day Son, all of this will be yours, to walk up as much as you like!!

TheO is developing leaps & bounds. It is amazing to watch how quick he can pick something up. The outlaws have acquired a small desk for him to sit at and draw with a Crayon. He has however been spotted walking away from one of OUR walls with his felt tip pens!! He denies it all!!



Done one Starry Night, but we know who did it really…

We have put TheO into training so he may someday compete in the Malta Marathon. The event involves running round the island about twenty times & with the legs that this little lad will have, according to the doctors, he will win it hands down. Besides, the Maltese are all really short anyway!

Packing bags for a trip back home with the family. Will be good to get back again, the good lady can't wait and I fear for the high street shops. Junior is looking forward to meeting up with his cousins, aunts & uncles.. baby sitter heaven!



In true b3ta style...

It appears that bubble wrap is no longer sufficient to protect the off-spring. I have been coerced into spending a small fortune on pieces of plastic that stop cupboard's and draws being opened by small and inquisitive hands! This was rushed through after watching the little lad stand up, open the pantry cupboard, and remove a bottle of MY Heinz ketchup. I dread to think of any potential outcome. What if it had been sausages for dinner?!?

With this and some added trepidation, TheO has taken his first few steps. He was at the out-laws when this happened first, but I fear that this claim is just grandparent rivalry. Apparently, not only were they witness to the first few steps, but also the first drawing, oil painting, sonatta, sonnet and experimental time travel....

So, back in his own home, we watch and applaud as junior stumbles his initial first steps like a man who has had too much Vodka. His crash down onto the tiled floor I fear will initiate another first, that of his first visit to casualty. More bubble wrap please!!



TheO's travel's have started to concern me...