Gecko

I want to write about something funny that happened to Zoe a month ago. While changing her nappy on the bed, she spotted a gecko on the ceiling ('what's that mum?'). They're usually quite shy, and, to be honest, I don't have memories of them from Brunswick Heads when I was younger, although we have been hearing them at night since we moved here. Anyhoo, I called Ewan in to see this lovely pale creature and, in his wisdom, he thought he'd catch it and put it outside. But they're quick, jumpy buggers, and the gecko leaped across to the wall, Ewan had another go, and the gecko then landed, spead-eagled and right way up, on Zoe's bare belly where she was still lying on the bed. It was very funny, and I was very impressed with the acrobatics, so I just started laughing, then caught myself and brushed it away to the dressing table. I don't think Zoe even realised what had happened...

I'd love to post some photos here but I haven't taken many since Christmas, partly due, I think, to the poor weather we had, which resulted in the Richmond river flooding and all the fish in it dying. Particuarly hard hit were Kyogle and Coraki, which is sad for those people whose homes and possessions have been destroyed. On a selfish note, it made life at home very challenging, trying to keep a little girl who loves being outside happily occupied inside for a few weeks on end. Thankfully Santa bought a new animal puzzle for Christmas (which continues to be Zoe's favourite inside activity) and the Clarkes gave two dolls (can't go anywhere without them now, including bed) and a doll pram, so we managed. But not very inspiring for photos. I had also decided to toilet train at this time - a diddle when outside in the yard, a bit more challenging indoors. Complicating things, Daddy tore the cartilage in his knee while we were camping for the first time in 2 years. This required a ride in an ambulance, three emergency department visits, copious amounts of morphine and, eventually, surgery. So Daddy has been laid up on in bed unable to walk for the last month. Daddy is now improving, and Zoe has consequently expanded her medical vocabulary to include 'sore (knee)' and 'band aid'.