Rowan Tree and Red Thread

We were sharing the apartment Noora's father, Ilpo, and his second wife, Aila. Ilpo and Rowan got on famously. He's a primary school teacher and seemed at ease with her, as well as being absolutely delighted with the attention she lavished on him. She in turn was happy to have someone new to perform for. Today she's also invented a new train game, standing at the end of a long rug and getting me (or someone else) to stand behind her, hands on her hips. She then makes her train noise and we shuffle off together, engine and carriage, as a little train to do the circuit of the rug. If there was someone else to hand they'd have to join in too, adding carriages at the back. Choo-choo!

Sally also revived an old game that Eoin played with Lily, Tim's aunt, years ago. Pulling at the elastic at the back of Rowan's trousers you say "I'll start you off!" and release the elastic with a gentle snap. Rowan then speeds away like she's been shot from a sling. Brilliant!