Rock on troops!!!

Hi Everyone,

How are you wonderful people out there? Its so good to be in touch with so many of you via our blog, e-mails and texts. Thanks for taking the time to contact us with all your well wishes for Phoebe.

Its been a nice day here and after a relaxing morning we planned to take Phoebe out just for a little while today.

Celebrating her birthday this year already feels very different in the fact that Phoebe is able to tell us what she would like for her special day. Today, we thought it would be good to take Phoebe out for an hour and visit our favourite book store called Webberley's in Hanley. It's a real pleasure to go and spend just a little while, perusing the shelves of this traditional old style independent book store.

From early this morning though Ade and I felt Phoebe wasn't feeling herself and this has continued for much of the day, she has complained of aching pains in her legs and back. Phoebe's body is going through so many changes right now and even her posture is changing all the time due to the effects of the medicines and lack of regular mobility. We thought it might lift her spirits a little to take her out for some fresh air and a change of environment. As Phoebe is able to tell us what she would like, we looked forward to maybe getting a new bike for her or having a special day out somewhere with friends..maybe like Splashlandings...but just like me, Phoebe just wanted something simple. Bless her, we took her into the bookshop and she just wasn't keen to look at anything. After a few moments browsing the extensive arts and crafts section, Phoebe finally chose a bottle of ready mixed pink coloured paint, a new paint brush and just one pair of scissors with a squiggly edge...that was it...she wanted absolutely no more. I wish life was that simple!!

After our visit into town it was over to Trentham Gardens as this is possibly one of Phoebe's favourite places apart from the beach. Gwen, Ade's Mum joined us and it was lovely to just have an hour for a little something to eat and ice-cream before heading home. Exhausted, Phoebe just wanted to lie down and watch the TV. Even though it was a very relaxing day, we realise how tired Phoebe gets from doing simple things. There have been a few times during the day where Ade and I have looked at each other and wondered if we should just take her back to the hospital to let them keep a closer eye on her
but...Ade and I decided to take each hour by hour, making regular assessments. During these worrying times this is the only way we can get through things, always maintaining eye contact which helps to confirm and reassure we are both thinking the same thing.

Arriving home and receiving a warm welcome from my Mum and Dad..the incredible troops had popped the kettle on, cleaned our home and Mum had even prepared a fabulous cottage pie!! Joy!!! So, along with caring for their Grandaughter, helping around our house and both our mum's cooking and taking the laundry home to wash for us, we truly appreciate and count our blessings, every day.

Tomorrow, we are sure to have a few visitors popping by, everyone is very mindful of how Phoebe is feeling right now so hopefully no one will be offended if she needs a little peace and quiet. Phoebe has received so many parcels and
cards for tomorrow, thank you so very much everyone. You are all so kind, whether its a present, card, prayer or even just a thought for Phoebe tomorrow we are so very humbled by the amazing support we continue to receive.
Thank you xx

Special thanks to Catherine, our special community nurse who came to see us yesterday, it was lovely to see you xxx

So for now...will leave you guys as we will try and get an early night ready for Phoebe's special day!!

Sleep well folks xxx
All our love
Lynn, Ade, Phoebe and Spirit Eleanor xxxx