Sorry about the delay

Hi everyone. I am really sorry about the lack of updates, but college work REALLY takes it's toll on everyone. Especially the hugely expanded amount of assignments we've all got to do.



On top of that, I've been seriously neglecting keeping my body in shape and I've had several visits from the college coach... bullying everyone about.



*sigh*, oh to have a high metabolic rate. To so easily burn off those extra calories, without really trying.



I'm not the only one however. Poor Dorian had her on his back too, but he was sneaky though. He kept running and hiding in the men's bathroom, knowing she can't walk in there. Clever man.


Oh well.

Well, I have some good news to share with you all. But firstly, I shall reveal a few things that have happened recently. Dorian and I are still going strong.



Dorian cracks me up though. His wants at present, revolve around doing the Smustle. What a VERY weird boyfriend I have. Honestly.



We even bought an apple tree together and take turns in looking after it.


Although I sincerely think that Dorian does overdo it with the pesticide a little.


I've heard stories about that stuff turning you all funny. So I'd better keep a close eye on him.


Oh, and the dorm cook is severely slacking in her quest to keep us all fed. Just after I completed my Sophomore year, I caught her 'hanging out' with one of my dorm buddies.



I wouldn't have minded, but we were all starving and the food on the counter was gathering flies!!!!!

I couldn't gain access to the main fridge to feed everyone, and besides, they'd all gone out, either to classes or to get a pizza, so I fended for myself instead.



I am seriously trying to get a few magical secrets from the Good Witch, but she's staying tight lipped.

Even after all the petting of her cat and the few games and stuff we play. So I've decided to put that little venture on hold for a while.

I am now in my Senior Year at college and still doing well, getting high grades etc. I'm secretly hoping that I'll graduate with honours and make Dad proud of me.

Speaking of Dad. He sent me some pics to share with you.



Of their adventures at Twikki Island.


They visited the Pirate Ship there, where Violet proved to be the bravest of the two, scuttling up the mast to the rickety old Crow's Nest.



Dad played out his 'big kid' scenario though. Playing sword fights and walking the plank.





Yes, I know, it's pretty dark, but that didn't stop them all having fun. He said he couldn't sleep and decided to get there a little early (that's Dad for you) to beat the tourists.



Later on, as the sun rose over the horizon, he too, went up into the Crow's Nest. And decided to pillage the Captain's quarters.

And got a BIG surprise.



The ghostly captain appeared and nearly scared the pants off him. But he still went back and learned the Sea Chanty.



I can see him bragging to all and sundry about that one for months to come.

Well, he decided (against my wishes) to sunbathe for a while, whilst Tristan and Violet explored the ship even more.




And came up with a golden tan, which surprised me no end. I expected, with his fair skin, that he'd surely have burned.



He built a sandcastle and asked for Tristan's help.



Had a snack at the bar. The Kids Club made sure that Tristan and Violet got fed too.



Bought a memento



And thought of Mom. So he bought her some jewellery. Aww bless.



They got back to the hotel, where Tristan and Violet both crashed out after a long eventful day.


Sadly, the vacation had to end and with a saddened heart, but totally refreshed, Dad checked everyone out and they all got into the shuttle bus to go back home.








I feel a little jealous because I didn't go, but Dad knew that my finals were more important and didn't push at all. Which is good of him.

And so to more good news.

************************

Mom and Dad are back together again.

After coming back from vacation, Cosmo and Europa both aged up into toddlers.

Firstly Cosmo.....



... and YIKES, those are really pronounced cheekbones there. (Hopefully he'll grow into them)

Then Europa



Aww Sweet.



And it was then that Dad realised that they all needed to be a whole unit for everyone. So he sold all his stuff and moved back home. Where he helped Susan and Thomas to grow up too.

Firstly Susan



Then Thomas.....



Now that we're all a big happy family, I can't wait to see what the future holds.

As time is dragging onwards and I'm fast coming up to graduation, I'm busy looking for an apartment for Dorian and myself, until something better comes up.

I think the house that Dad was living in temporarily, may just appeal to me, but I'm not entirely sure yet. There's a lot of work to be put into the place anyway.

I'll say tata for now and leave you with this parting shot of a few of my little siblings, all playing happily together.


Helen