Lola's Birthday - Part 2

Wake Up Call
When Lola was little she would always be up at the crack of dawn, while everyone else was still bleary-eyed, eager to open her birthday presents. Even though she's all grown up now, she was still up early on the morning of her birthday and very excited.

As always, Lola did extremely well and received loads of presents. She was delighted with everything, especially her new Fiorelli handbag - well a girl can never have too many!

Joe made her a special birthday card which has become something of a family tradition. This year it was based on Manga (Japanese comic book art), her current obsession. Joe spent 20 years as a commercial artist and always produces something fantastic. He keeps thinking the children will grow out of wanting one, but they love getting them and won't let him stop just yet! They've built up an impressive collection over the years.

Nic and Feebz
Lola's godmother, Nicci, and her daughter Phoebe arrived mid-morning which was wonderful as Lola hadn't seen them both in over a year. They arrived looking very glam and pretty in pink - but then again Phoebe is a model in her spare time, having been 'discovered' at Camden Lock market in London. Good looks run in the family.

Location, Location
We drove over to Stamford, a beautiful historic town north of Peterborough which is famous for being the location for the film Middlemarch, as well as the more recent Pride and Prejudice. However, we were more interested in the shops and food!

Nic and I ended up buying the same dress at a very trendy shop called Energy. The dresses were frivilous, brightly coloured and perfect for hot summer days. It didn't surprise us that we both chose the same thing. We both love dressing up and our daughters have definitely inherited the 'dressing up' gene!

Fabulous Food at Fratellis
We had lunch at a lovely little Italian restaurant called Fratelli's where they serve delicious pasta and pizza. It feels like a 'proper' Italian restaurant and has a friendly, family atmosphere.

After we'd stuffed our faces, it was time for more shopping and some sightseeing.

We finally went home feeling exhausted but happy. We chatted for another hour before Nic and Phoebs drove back to Milton Keynes, or 'MK' as we know it.

We all had a brilliant day and sharing Lola's birthday with Nic and Phoebe made it extra special. It was a great way for Lola to become a teenager.