Blog spot - IMOGENDYSON.CO.UK

Christmas 2011

2012-02-05T22:24:00.006Z

Away in a Manger

Sorry we have not updated for a while, just dont know where the time goes to be honest. We had a lovely Christmas, Imogen got far too much as usual from Father Christmas, we did the usual Christmas get together, Mum and Phil came for Christmas lunch then we headed to Aunt Deborahs for the Dyson get together.
Since Christmas though Imogen seems to have a constant cold, even having to have a few nebulizers to help with the coughing. There is alot of colds going around at the mo but hopefully this one is now on its way out. The eating definately goes off when she is snuffly.
Anyway I will put bit more of an update on in a few days as its getting late now and time for bed.
Tarra folks
Check out the video of Imogen singing Away in a Manger below after the photos.

Imogen and her teddies having a party for "Carla"

Some of Imogens many presents

Away in a Manger, please click to watch the video

Immie's trip to London

2011-11-12T13:57:00.003Z

Emma and Imogen

Hi all,
this is a post of our trip to see Nanny down in High Wycombe. Whilst there we had a day out in London as Imogen had been learning about at school.

We did all the touroidy things whilst there including going on the London Eye, going to Buckingham Palace to see the Queen, (she stood us up and went to Australia - she must have forgotten we were coming). We went to Westminster Abbey, covent Garden and took a cruise down the Thames.

We walked miles, Imogen less so and spent a mile or two on my shoulders. For Imogen, the highlight was a visit to Hamley's toy shop where she spent sixty quid of her own money on 2 dolls. Yes, 2 blinkin dolls!

Whilst we were down in Wycombe, we called in at the Coopers. Linz's step sister. We had an afternoon out swimming at Aylesbury with Emma and Ben (Im's step cousins, if there is such a thing).

And Ben

On the train to London

On the London Eye

On the Thames

Outside Buckingham Palace

With Big Ben and Big Baz

Outside Westminster Abbey

Oxford Circus

Eating Update

2011-10-04T22:23:00.000+01:00

Imogen over the last week or so has done really well with her eating. It is still a very small portion, about 1 good size table spoon, but she has been trying different things and just generally doing better. Its all just small steps but touch wood all in the right direction.
We have a appointment in Manchester in October so will see if they are pleased with the progress.
Will keep you posted on the appoinment as and when we have been.
We need to get over the flu jab next week first which Imogen has already started to worry about. Hopefully will not be too bad.

Imogen's swimming unaided video

2011-10-04T21:08:00.015+01:00

Imogen's first length, nearly!!

It has taken months to be able to upload videos again to the blog, it just wouldn't work, however it has been Baz that has been trying(say no more)!

Anyway the video may take a few seconds to load so please be patient.

Imogen as you may know has been swimming a bit without her arm bands on but would only swim across the width but she plucked up courage last Wednesday to do the length.

Second video is of Imogen jumping in the pool on her own and with no arm bands for the first time. A huge step forward in her confidence.

Achievements in September

2011-09-15T21:12:00.003+01:00

Well all too soon the summer holidays are over and its back to school, work and the normal day to day routine. However Imogen has some new found confidence this week as she has done two things that she would never have attempted a couple of months ago.
First she has learnt to swim and last week at her swimming lesson she swam across the width a couple of times with no floats, Karen gave her a certificate and badge. Imogen was made up and really pleased with herself.

Secondly she has ridden her bike at weekend with no stabilisers! Last time we tried to take them off she wouldnt even get on the bike never mind try, so a huge step forward. Just need to keep taking her out and practising now as she still very wobbly. I will put some pics on here of her big achievements when I have taken some in the next week or so.

Over the summer some days she has been doing a little better with her eating, and she drinks her water in the day now instead of down Gaz( Imogens Gastrostomy, she has an over night feed) which is loads better. She also has been trying loads of different of new foods which is progress. We have been giving her 5p's for doing well with her eating so at least she gets rewarded for doing well.
Unfortunately now she is back at school, she no longer has support with her eating so she does not eat much pack lunch. However on the positive side it means she has progressed to not get support.

Imogens first day of year 2

Note from the Baz -
as Linz has done the blog, I thought I should chip in with a gag.
Ahem, "and finally"..
Last night I lay in bed looking up at the stars in the sky and I thought to myself, ... where the hells my ceiling gone.

James and Alistair from BBC's "The Restaurant"

2011-09-15T20:59:00.012+01:00

On a weekend in August we all tootled on down to Blakedown near Worcester for a surprise party weekend for a very dear friend of ours Sharron. Her husband had arranged for her friends to come and stay at the most amazing Manor House that he had rented for the weekend to celebrate her birthday. He had also arranged for James and Alistair who starred in BBC's The Restaurant with Raymond Blanc, to come also and do the catering for all us guests. It was the most fabulous weekend, there was a swimming pool, games room, tennis courts, cinema room, you name it it had it!! It was lovely that the three of us could share Sharrons special day and Imogen had about 12 other children to play with all weekend and she had a ball. She was not in bed before midnight on either night!!

Daddy and Imogen

Us with the Gill family outside the Manor House

With James and Ali from The Restaurant

Fireworks for the party over Park Hall, Blakedown

Summer Holidays

2011-09-15T20:45:00.001+01:00

Evening all, thought I had better get myself into gear and update Imogens blog with all the things she has been doing over the holidays, and believe me she has been busy.
First off the tooth fairy has been to our house twice. She had a wobbly tooth for ages and it looked like it was never coming out, then we got a shout one night after she had gone to bed to say it had dropped out!! Bless its just another sign that they grow up.

Caravan Holidays

We have had quite a few weekends away in the caravan going to various locations.
First we went to a lovely site in Chipping where Imogen made friends with two girls in the next caravan and played quite a bit with them.
Next we went to a site at Lakeland Maize farm which was brill, Imogen could go and play on the outdoor play area and for the first time she had enough courage to try the zip wire and loved it. She also met a little girl there who she played with loads. She was called Cydney and was with her baby sister and mum and dad. They were with another couple and when we had come home they invted us back up to the site for tea with them one night which was lovely.

Imogen and Cydney

On another weekend we went to Longridge in the Caravan, which was quite a busy weekend. Lucy from Huddersfield, Imogens friend, came to stay for one night in the caravan with us which was nice. They both had a really nice time. While Lucy was with us we went to visit some friends in Clitheroe who have a static van on a caravan park. We had a barbecue with them then went to a park on the way back, and Imogen went on another zip wire! think she really into them now its taken about 2 years to get her on one.

On the Sunday Micky, Simon, Ella and Joel came to the caravan for the day. We all went to Ribchester for a walk along the river and out for tea. So rather a busy weekend!!

We have also done two weekends at Bentham at Riverside caravan park, we have hardly been at home it seems reading this!

Torrevieja Spain - Our Holiday pics

2011-07-07T19:45:00.077+01:00

Hola, I Think I went overboard with the amount of pics I put on. I'll skip the written stuff, let's face it, pics tell a thousand words.
If I get round to it, I'll put up a holiday report.
T'ra, Bazza

Imogen's first flight. (Blackpool airport)

(click the pics to enlarge, only if ya want to)

At Elche Zoo

Waiting for the evening bus into Torrevieja.

The Spaniards do not haggle.

Neither does this lass. She made a personialised Imogen bracelet for 3 euros.

Torrevieja beach

Checking out the view at our apartment

A real Spanish paella. We are not talking Bird's eye.

Thumbs up for a top night out.

The night view from our rooftop.

The rooftop by day - melting!

Dad's eye view of Spain.

Senorita - in her flamenco dress for a night out to Villa Salada - Torrevieja

Villa Salada, Torrevieja. Fab food, fab Flamenco dancers and top night out.

One for the boys!

And a sweaty one for the ladies.

Here he is again!

Authentic Spanish Flamenco dancer. (Aka Jordan from Bristol)

Alicante

Taken by Imogen

Alicante harbour

Alicante promenade.

Imogen Dyson from Morecambe

Err, who does she think she is?

The Yummy Mummy (to some).

Checking out the ....err, red flowers.

View fromAlicante Castle.

Back on the roof.

Out for tea.
Maison de something or other near San Miguel.

Outside Maison de something or other.

In the apartment.

Playing a game

Torrevieja beach, check out the sheath. Imogen wouldn't let a broken arm stand in her way.

Soaking up the rays. Don't panic she was well slapped up with cream and came back as white as a Dyson.

The Aquapolis splash park, Torrevieja.

Dad and Ims. She was fine on the rides until Mum tipped the ring over, then wouldn't go on again.

Spot Dad!

In Torrevieja at night.

Our apartment. Well not really ours but you know what I mean.

Oh hey up! Here's that Yummy Mummy again. Or is it Ursula Andres?

And here's Daniel Craig...Or Eric Morecambe...or a Beached whale?

Torrevieja again.

Mummy and Imogen.

Torrevieja at night.

Bernadette. Our neighbour.

Oh Bummer!

70s Imogen

2011-05-26T13:18:00.002+01:00

Imogen is having a 70's day at school, so bought her a Grease outfit like Sandy. It matches the new pink cast just fine.

Broken arm

2011-05-25T13:37:00.003+01:00

Imogen forces a smile. Yes, she's broken her arm. She was at a party last Friday and fell down the stairs. Of course, at the time there were many tears saying it hurt. However, we didn't think it was broken as it looked OK and she'd stopped crying after a few minutes.

So we dusted her down and let her continue having fun. Over the weekend she went to another party, running and jumping about and then a christening on Sunday playing on a slide and swings. Then up came the swelling. So we thought we'd take her for an Xray. Broken!!

She isn't in that much pain, just saying when she bent her hand back there was some pain. Anyway, it's in plaster and as we are due to fly to Spain next week, we have been looking to buy a waterproof cover for it.

What with the Ash cloud, then this, we wonder if we're destined to go. Fingers crossed.

Finally, we went to the Zoo the other day. There was only one dog in it. It was a shitzhu.

Keep smiling.

April 2011, Birthdays and hols and weddings

2011-05-06T13:27:00.021+01:00

Alright folks,

well that was a cracking month, wouldn't you agree. No April showers in Morecambe, warm sunny days, blue skies and barbeques gave it a summery feel. It's gonna a be a damp squib of a summer - you watch.

For Imogen it was a fab month mainly for having 18 days off. It was also her 6th birthday which saw her receive a silly amount of gifts and have a great joint party with one of her best friends; Elena. The party was at Greenlands Farm at Carnforth where they have one of those big ball pit funky frame slidey things. Great for letting the kids run off and disappearing in the knowledge they can't escape.

For her birthday, we didn't go overboard on pressies. She got a scooter, various craft stuff and princess dressing up clothes. From others, she got loads of party dresses and clothes for her holiday. How many 6 year olds ask for Next vouchers as a gift?

We also had a 5 night trip away in the caravan. We went to Haven Marton Mere at Blackpool for 5 nights. Again the weather was brill and sunslap was on daily. One day Grandma and Grandad came over and we all went to St Anne's for the day.

The next day, Hayley, Colin and Harris came to see us and after a visit to Stanley Park had a BBQ at the caravan.

We are looking forward to our next holiday which will be to Spain in June when we go and stay in cousin Shane's apartment. This will be Im's first trip abroad and on a plane. She is really excited. More on that next month.

There has been a sad loss in the family. The 30 ft sycamore has been lopped down. Imogen was most unimpressed and really didn't want it to go. But every autumn it was a pain clearing the leaves and helicopter seeds. Then in spring its a nightmare to pull all the growing sapling up out of cracks. plus the neighbour dropped a subte hint about his lack of light. Anyway, Imogen is growing a sapling that we are going to plant in the country some where so it least it will have has children and carry on the family name. We shall name this tree sapling - Dave! If she forgets, I'll whizz it in the green bin.

We have been to see an eating Pshycologist for Imogen. This is because we are sure her eating problem is not physical. Basically the doctor has jostled a few ideas around and talked to Imogen at her level. She asked Imogen, "Imogen would you like to eat as much as all your friends?"

"Don't Know".

"Does it bother you that you don't eat as much as your friends?"

"No!"

Ho hum! At least the daylight hours are long.

Which reminds me, a few weeks ago I broke my record for continuous love making. One hour and two minutes. A good effort I thought. Then the Mrs pointed out it the clocks had gone forward an hour.

Keep smiling!

Baz

Girls

Cake

Caravan

Dave's Mum

Dave's mum's last moments.

The Edmondson's

The neighbours

Imogen's birthday tree flowers early.

2011-04-04T20:28:00.007+01:00

The annual birthday picture is somewhat early this year. As you may know, the Cherry tree was planted in the garden on Imogen's first birthday and every birthday we have a photo taken to see how each is developing. However, this year the blossom has come a couple of weeks early. I did notice a lot blowing off in the wind and thought it wouldn't survive another week, hence taking the pics a week early. There is the addition of the wendy house this year and Imogen didn't want the usual Daddy holding Imogen shot. Both Ims and tree blossoming well. Click to enlarge the pics.

Sickness Bug

2011-03-31T22:26:00.004+01:00

Imogen finally went back to school last Thursday for a full day as she did a couple of half days first. On Sunday she did brill with her eating and ate a full banana, which is a huge record as normally she would only eat about half an inch. Then on Sunday night started with stomach cramps and she was a bit sick, by Monday nothing was staying down and the cramps were quite bad. So another 2 days off school. She is fine now, back at school today.

We went to parents evening on Wednesday, her teachers said she is doing really well with her reading and numeracy, being above average. But her writing has slipped a bit so we are going to do 10 mins every night of writing at home to bring her back to the standard she was at.

On Saturday Imogen and I are going to Gullivers world (Barry is unfortunately working, and will miss the grand day out), meeting up with Kay and kids, Sharron and kids, then all of us back to Sharrons for tea. She is very excited, and easily used as bribery to be good all this week. I will put some pics of us having fun at Gullys when I get chance.

Anyway, my bed is calling so will say bye for now and update next week.

Lindsey x

Few days in Hospital

2011-03-20T22:48:00.002Z

Well, we have gone from going to see the consultant every 12 months instead of 6 to a few days stay in hospital!! Imogen has been poorly for a few days last week and by Wednesday she was struggling a bit with her breathing and needed her oxygen on, much to her disapproval. We saw Imogens consultant (that we only saw week before) when we got there on the assessment unit, which was lucky as then we didnt have to go through all Imogens medical history. She admitted her to the childrens ward and she needed an IV line in for antibiotics. That didnt go down too well with Imogen. We stayed in for 3 nights, cant complain as she has not been admitted for about 3 years. On Saturday afternoon we were allowed home as she was off her oxygen and doing loads better. She didnt want to come home as she was happy watching tv and dvds all day!! Anyway, Saturday night was a full nights sleep back in our own beds. Blissful.

Tarra for know, will keep you all posted how the patient is.

Consultant Visit

2011-03-14T23:06:00.003Z

10th March sees Imogens 6 month check up with Dr Peckham at Lancaster Hospital. Always feels like 2 months since the last appointment, time just goes by so fast. Anyway she is always pleased to see Imogen, she was the consultant at Lancaster the morning she was born so she has always took an interest in her.
She does her usual, goes through Imogens medication, how much milk she has overnight, and how she is doing generally.
Imogen has put some weight on recently so is finally up to 16Kg, seems like she has been 15KG for ages.
She notices an improvement in her eating that we probably dont see and what we said she now does since our last visit is quite a big improvement. Well its quite big for Imogens standards anyway. Main thing is she was so pleased with Imogens overall progress we dont need to see her now for 12 months, unless we are worried about anything, so good news really.

She has gone to bed not very well tonight. She was a bit sick this morning with her reflux, we always know when she is coming down with something as the reflux comes first. Her throat sounds quite scratchy when she cried just before, so maybe getting a cold and sore throat.

I have been working on Imogens other website tonight, I havent really done anything to it for quite a while so need to get back on with it. Took most of tonight just researching a few more CDH family blogs to put on it. Need to tweak the text colour. But its coming along. The Url is www.imogendyson.com
If you are a CDH family reading our blog, please contact us and we will put your link on our blog.

Thats all today
Lindsey

Our Holiday to Perth, Scotland.

2011-02-26T17:19:00.036Z

Hello all,

We've been on holiday and had a fantastic time. It went too fast as per usual and as much as we love being at home, we do like being away.

We have been to Perth, Scotland and stayed in a lovely cottage at Scone (pronounced Scoon) for a week. This cottage is a little gem and we will certainly return. Here's what we did.

Friday - set off at midday. We took Imogen out of school early and hot footed up to the cottage. Unfortunately, Imogen was feeling pretty lousy on the way up. Didn't stop her watching 2 dvd's on the way though. When we arrived at tea time, she had a temperature and really felt sorry for herself. Anyway, we dosed her up on medicine, put her to bed and crossed our fingers.

Saturday - Bloody marvelous is that Mediced Nurofen cocktail.. Imogen was much better, although she was a bit snotty but felt loads better. Didn't do much this day but had to go and do some grocery shopping at Tesco for the week. We then went in to Perth and had a coffee and did some shopping.

Sunday - By Sunday, Imogen was still feeling better but had lost her voice. Blissful to Mummy and Daddy. Sounded a bit Mariella Frostrup whispering. Any road, we went to Noah's Ark in Perth. We went here a couple of years ago when we stayed at Auchterarder. Basically it has 10 pin bowling, Karting and soft play area. The soft play area was under refurbishment but there was still enough to do. I (Daddy) won the bowling (twice). Imogen was second twice. I think Mummy was putting some in the gutter deliberately. Me, well I'm in it to win it! It's no good for children, they need to realise that it not the winning...

Then Imogen donned her helmet and was co driver having two goes in the karts. Later that evening we went to The Wheel Inn in Scone and had a lovely meal. Recommended if people have found this blog by searching for it.

Monday - We went to The falls of Dochart, Killin. This is about 40 miles west of Perth. We went to meet Mickey, Simon and their kiddies Ella and Joel. They were staying 40 miles north of there and agreed to meet up for dinner. Another recommendation is Killin Hotel where we found a cosy bar and had a big meal. I think we all plumped for fat dude burgers, very good value. There was a great big log fire with young lass hogging it on her tod. So I said, "I'm sorry dear, I'm gonna have to move you". This was tongue in cheek, with a smile on my face. The female smiled and agreed to move. Then Linz pepped up and said she couldn't do that. So I said, "No no it's Ok, was only joking". Now me, I would happily have turfed her out if she had insisted. 5 mins later she was gone of her own accord and in jumps another couple (drat it).

The phone is his Dad's by the way.

Tuesday - We went to watch Yogi Bear at the pictures in Perth. Seemingly this had bad reviews, but it wasn't that bad. If you've ever seen the Garfield movies, it's the same sort of juvenile silliness. Imogen liked it so it was fine. We then took her to the local museum in Perth. We thought Imogen would not take to it but as it was lousy weather had to do something. As it happens, she was quite inquisitive into 600 year old dead bodies that were dug up locally. It was in that museum that she asked, "Where do babies come from... how do you get them?" Erm, Kent!!??

Wednesday - Nice day. Grey weather again. We went to Dundee. Firstly we went to Pirates Adventure. The usual sort of indoor play area and a cafe for Mums and dad's to drink coffee and read a mag. We actually got lost on the way there. The sat nav was right but we weren't paying attention. We pulled up next to an older dude and asked him the way. I think he said something like this. "Y g dn the rd, up t ye trfc lts, tk a rt tn, o rndabt (....yada yada yada...) y shd fnd it nr th pst ofc". Except his directions went on for 2 mins. Me and Linz looked at each other, laughed and still didn't have a clue where to go but went in the general direction he pointed. Mind you, if he'd of come down our neck o't woods he too may struggle. What he should have said was, "Ya go down t' roared, up to t' traffic lights, tek a right turn, o'er roundabart, ya should find it neart porst office".

After we spent a couple of hours, we went to Dundee Ice arena. This wasn't Imogen's first skating experience. We were quite amazed just how well she did. She eventually managed to stay standing and propel herself. We were most impressed. Linz is a pretty good skater from her youth spent living in Blackpool and possibly Imogen will giver a run for her money. She has said she wants to go again to Blackpool or Blackburn rink and get her own skates.

To top the day off, we headed into Dundee and had tea at (another recommendation) Jimmy Chung's. This was a big all you can eat Chinese restaurant. Bargain at £8.99 per person and £4.49 for kids. Very easy to over indulge - as we perhaps did.

Thursday - This was to be our last full day :-( . In the morning we had a walk along the river near to our cottage where we played Pooh sticks. This turned out to be good exercise as we followed a stick for about 1/4 of a mile. Imogen was quite upset when it went over a waterfall, never to be seen again.

In the afternoon we went to Perth Leisure pool. This was another haunt from a couple of years ago. Imogen remembered it because she went down a small slide and stubbed her toe. Guess what? Same slide, got to the bottom, stubbed her feet, shot forward and cut her finger. More tears, never to go on again. However, she dared to go on the long water shoot twice on our laps.

Friday - Double :-( Still, if you don't go home, you can't go on holiday again.

Holiday cottages in Perth Scotland- Glebe Cottage, Scone, Perth
For booking - Dr H. Cameron 01738 551268

Visit to Gastroenterologist

2011-02-26T17:06:00.003Z

We finally went to see the Gastroenterologist last week at Manchester. The long awaited appointment lasted all of about 15 minutes. Last time we saw Imogen,s paediatric surgeon at Manchester, he suggested doing tests to see how her reflux is and whether she needs further medication for it. We didnt want her to have the tests as we think her reflux is good at the moment unless she has a cold. So off we went to see this doctor and thankfully he agreed that at this time no further tests are required unless her eating goes backwards or her sickness gets worse. Great news.

However her eating at the moment has gone off a bit. I had a meeting at school just before we went to the hospital and Mrs Armstrong said she is doing brill at school. She is up to eating a full fish finger(wont eat them at home!) likes pasta, pizza, sausage, all sorts. She said there is nothing she wont eat!! So we are not worried about her eating as she can do it, just not that well at home.

October Hols 2010/Christmas/New year

2011-01-23T23:12:00.011Z

My New Years resolution is to update Imogen's blog at least once a month, preferably every few weeks. My resolution is not going too well at the moment.

In October we went down to High Wycombe to visit Nanny Bagshaw and family. One of the days while we were there we went to Legoland in Windsor. What a brill place, Imogen loved the rides, she even sat on the back seat of the Pirate Boat. She also went on the log flume twice, and I got very wet. When we went to Gulliver's world last summer she would only sit in the middle of the pirate boat and wouldn't go on the log flume, so vast improvement in her confidence of rides. Lisa, Emma and Ben came to Lego land too and a good day was had by all.

Click on photos to enlarge them.

Christmas 2010

Christmas was at our house this year for the traditional Dyson family pressie giving. In the morning on Christmas day there was just the normal 3 of us, Imogen more excited this year about Father Christmas coming. Even more excited to open her presents from him, and getting everything on her Christmas list. At lunch time after tearing Imogen away from her toys we headed to grandma and grandads house for Christmas dinner. I cooked the dinner as usually they come to us Christmas day but as Barry's family was coming at night I decided to cook at mums. Imogen had been full of a cold leading up to Christmas, but thankfully for her she had got rid of it in time and passed it to me and Barry. At night there was 15 of us in our lounge for pressie giving followed by a buffet I put on and a picture quiz. Imogen was up very late till about 11.30, and slept in Boxing day.

Imogen concentrating on her reading Christmas morning.

Imogen is mad on Strictly Come Dancing, and wants to go and learn ballroom dancing. Following in my footsteps as I did Ballroom and Latin American dancing for quite a few years when I was in my youth.

Opening Christmas presents with eager excitement

On Boxing day evening we did the usual cards and buffet night at my mums. For the first year Imogen joined us for a few games of cards and helped me. We have since played cards again with grandma and grandad, Imogen played her own hand and she won 2 out of 3 games! She is going to be a natural hustler.

New Year 2010

Kay and the kids (Lucy, Millie, Sam) came over from Huddersfield for 2 nights at New Year. They used to live next door and every New Year we have always got together, having food and fun on the sing star. So it was really nice this year that they still came over to celebrate with us. Unfortunately Adam was working nights so he stayed in Hud and Barry was just working until 11pm so he was home to see in the New Year with us. Another late night for Imogen as she was up till about 12.30am singing and dancing.

Update on Imogen's feeding

Imogen is really trying hard some days with her eating. The lady at school who helps her with the feeding is really pleased with her, and the other day she received a golden point for her class as she drunk all her milk at snack time with the other children. Most days now in the day she has all her liquids orally, either water or vimto. Some days though its a constant battle to get her to drink it as she drinks it slowly it takes her a long time and she would rather be doing something else. She still has all her special medical milk over night though. Her eating is marginally better, she does swallow most of what she eats instead of pouching it at the front of her mouth which is a big step forward. It takes her a long time to chew a small piece of food and swallow it. She would have to sit at the table about 6 hours to eat a full plate of food that a child with no eating difficulties would eat. Slowly but surely she is moving in the right direction. We have an appointment in Feb to see a Gastroenterologist who will discuss her reflux and whether she needs some tests to see how bad it is. We dont want her to have any tests as her reflux doesn't bother her and we don't think it is now a factor that prevents her from eating. Will keep you posted on the appointment outcome.(if its not cancelled, the hospital have cancelled the last 2).

Other bits and pieces

On Wednesday we are taking Imogen to see Strictly Come Dancing live at Liverpool. She is very very excited. About last October Imogen's teacher told us that she wasn't always doing her work at school and just sat day dreaming all the time. She said she can do it but she is having a spell where she just is not interested in doing any work. So we did a reward chart for her school work and also one for her swimming as she had lapsed in her swim classes too. She had to collect stars to have curtains in her Wendy house then collect stars to go and see the dancing. Well the reward chart was a great success and her teacher was really impressed with how well she now gets on with her work. She has lovely writing when she puts her mind to it, and also does really well reading her homework books to us. Amazing what a little bribery what stars can do.

In February half term the 3 of us are going to Perth in Scotland for a week in a lovely looking cottage. It is my big 40th birthday so we are going on hols. At the end of May we are venturing to Spain for 10 days, this is Imogen's first time on a plane so she is looking forward to that too.

Not forgetting the caravan breaks we will be going on! Plus we have booked a Haven site at Blackpool for 5 nights in the Easter hols, bargain price of £38!! So lots of Pics to go on here of our hols throughout the year.

Anyway I am rambling lots now, so will say goodnight.

Lindsey x

www.imogendyson.com

www.imogendyson.co.uk

Stork Wendy House

2010-10-18T20:13:00.006+01:00

Hi all,

just a quickie. The Wendy house is a Stork Play house and made by Shire Garden Buildings of Wesbech, Cambridgeshire http://www.shiregb.co.uk/ and we bought it from Madfun, Surrey http://www.madfun.co.uk/ A number of people have been enquiring, so here are the links. Both Shire and Madfun a well recommended by us.

Not much to report except we are off down to High Wycombe at the weekend to see Nanny over the half term and are planning to go to Legoland, Windsor with Lisa, Emma and Ben (Im's step cousins, if there is such a thing).

On Wednesday, Immie is off to get her flu jab. She doesn't know it yet and wont until the eleventh hour! Wish us luck.

Baz

Neglected Blog - It's been ages, really bad show.

2010-10-06T11:23:00.046+01:00

Imogen's Place (click pics to enlarge)

Preparing for the project, Imogen gave a hand in the painting.

Hello all,

yes it's been ages. Feel really bad, but just been so busy over the summer. What spare time on the computer has been spent by Lindsey doing the new website. This is live but needs some tweaks.

Well, over the summer we have been away a few times in the caravan. We had two whole weeks away in it. Our first week was to Haven at Haggerston Castle in Northumberland. This was the busy, rowdy and late night and rip off for tourist beer week. You know Imogen loves the cabaret and dancing. Followed by the 2p slotties. Me and Linz went to Haggerston years ago in the days when we were living o'ert brush.

Our 2nd week was a much quieter, relaxed week staying at a fab site in Melrose. Gibson Park (caravan club park for those finding this blog by typing it in). This park is a stunner and we're definitely going back next year. It's just at the bottom of Melrose high street and at the foot of The Eildon hills. We were quite lazy that week, getting up when we wanted and not venturing too far.

Imogen is now in her 2nd year at school and seems to be doing well. She had an excellent end of year result at the end of last term and we hope she will continue to do well. Her writing and reading is really very good.

Linz will do a post soon of her eating and health stuff. Generally she is eating pretty well. We went to see the specialist at Alder Hey a few weeks ago but nothing different spoken about. However, we feel we should keep going as we don't want to be struck of their list. She hasn't been on her oxygen for a while but then she has been well and it'll be the next few cold months that will likely send some bugs her way. So I shan't be too surprised if she uses some over the winter.

You will have seen the wendy house pics. Now, please don't think she's a spoilt child. It's just that when we were away, she found a fortress at a garden centre and loved it. Well she wanted one and it was 500 finest English. Her request for one was refused... That was until we thought, well she has got more money in her account than us and if she wants one... This is basically from money that has been given to her over the years by friends, Aunties etc. So we said if she wanted she could buy it herself. And she did. However, it cost us a few bob re landscaping the bottom of the garden so don't think we're too tight. Plus the house was an end of season sale. Anyway it's just finished and as yet the novelty has not worn off.

So there you have it. 4 months worth. See ya in Feb. Baz

This was our holiday to Scotland. Cousin Andrew and his wife Suzanne came to visit.

The fortress gave Imogen the idea of having one at home. "Do ya think we're made o' money" was our reply.

Stone skimming on the river Tweed

The hills are The Eildons taken from Scott's view. Where the poet Walter Scott went to write to get inspiration - apparently!

These 2 were Molly and her brother ? (we'll call him Dave) who she met at Haggerston Castle Haven Park.

This was a lovely day on the beach with Uncle Philip, Auntie Wendy and their off shoots.

Uncle Philip did the barbeque on the dunes. His nose is the same as Grandma Rosie's. Perhaps a tad more masculine.

Don't mail in - we know she'll strain her eyes in her mummy's glasses.

Oh look it's Dave's sister.

She'll grow out of this.

This was a play park near Dunbar in Scotland. I would recommend it - but I can't remember the name.

Sports day - The sweaty wellie comp

This was a posh place, McDonald's hotel near Chester that we went to. No we haven't come in to money. Tesco clubcard points. Save em now - seriously. This 3 night break cost us a fiver.

Another update!

2010-06-16T16:27:00.007+01:00

Just a quick update of whats been happening in our lives the last 2 weeks.

It was Grandad's 70th Birthday last Friday so we all went out to a Chinese restaurant called Ricky's. Lovely restaurant, I had decorated a cake for him and they brought it out at the end. Imogen has been doing fab with her swallowing the last few weeks and she had loads of noodles at Ricky's. At the end of the meal a man from another table came up to ours and said how well behaved our little girl was and how proud we should be of her and that she is a credit to us. We had been sitting there for over 2 hours, but I always take her some colouring to do to keep her occupied.

In the restaurant

At the weekend we went to the local park in the splash pool area, the trampolines and swing boats. On Sunday I took Imogen and her friend to see Nanny Mc phee at the flicks and then had Mc Donald's for lunch. (That'll really encourage her to eat - Baz) So because of the fun filled weekend, Monday morning was the same as usual- I don't want to go to school. Think we need to make weekends really boring so she cant wait to go to school!!

She was star of the week at school this week so she got to bring home the class Bear. This stays with us for a few days and comes everywhere with us. We have to take photos of the bear having a great time and fill the golden book in. Imogen was very excited.

Today the lady who helps with her eating at school sent a note home saying how pleased they all were of her at school today as she took part in the class tasting session and had some brown bread, along with strawberries and radishes that the children had planted in their vegetable patch. She just seems to have turned a small corner with her eating and swallowing, lets hope it lasts and develops.

Lindsey

Caravan Hols have started

2010-06-09T21:30:00.004+01:00

Our first venture of the year was to Marton Mere Haven Park in the Easter Holidays. It was great to be back in the van, its like your second home!! Imogen loved it as usual, likes going out dancing at night to the club house and getting dressed up in her party dresses. She is getting to be a right girly girl. Anyway while at the park went to the Sand castle at Blackpool that was great fun, loads of big slides. Imogen liked the wave machine the best, think we were all like kids in there.

Also took a trip to Stanley park in Blackpool, we haven't been there since Barry and me were courting. Took a motor boat out on the lake and Imogen did most of the driving.

Hayley, Colin and Harris came over for the Saturday afternoon which was nice. We all went into the club house at night for an hour or 2 before they went home. Imogen and Harris had fun in the amusements and on the park.

Lindsey

Ps double click the pics to enlarge.

Imogens Birthday and trip to Gulliver's World

2010-06-09T20:35:00.012+01:00

Imogen had a party at home this year with a few of her friends from school a few days before her birthday.. Daddy took great delight in doing all the party games with them, he was a great host! She had a brill time and the lounge looked like a disco. We even had an egg hunt in the garden. On her actual birthday the 3 of us went out for lunch and then went 10 pin bowling which she enjoys and most of the time beats us.

The day after the birthday we left daddy at home and have a girly day out with Aunt Kay,Lucy,and Millie at Gullivers world. Aunt Sharron met us for the fun day with Laura and Nathan. A grand day had by all on loads of rides, Imogen was braver this year going on some bigger rides than previously, because she is now 5 is her reason.

Another birthday over for another year.

Imogen is second from the left! She wouldn't go on this ride last year.

January Hospital visit

2010-06-09T20:15:00.004+01:00

Well we have finally got a fully working computer so now need to update you all of whats been going on in our lives.

We have had a few hospital visits in last couple months, the first one at Manchester to see Dr Rocoski. He always brings up the issue of Imogens eating, and he cannot understand why she still needs all her nutrition via her gastrostomy. He is thinking it must be medical, but as most of you who know us will know that it is just lack of understanding of how to eat and also sometimes too much of a chore for her to eat. It isn't through want of not trying on our behalf. Its a frustrating daily battle to get her to eat just small amounts. Anyway he has now referred us to see a gastrologist doctor who will do some PH monitoring overnight tests. Think he thinks there is some miracle medical cure!!

Couple of weeks ago went to see our local consultant Dr Peckham. She also thinks along of our lines about Imogens eating, and is referring us to a phycologist to hopefully talk to Imogen about the reasons she doesn't eat. She has also referred us again to the feeding clinic at Alder Hey to see if they have any ideas.
She is really pleased with Imogens progress overall and we see her again in about 5 months.

Imogen is doing really well at school, her reading and writing have come on in leaps and bounds and she has some lovely friends and even swallows her lunch!! Cant believe she is nearly in year 1, time goes so fast.

New update soon

2010-04-26T21:24:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

it's been ages we know. Our PC has been bust for ages and we can't upload anything without the internet connection dropping out. It will be fixed soon cos it's doing our head in.

Anyway, we are all still well. Imogen is top notch at the moment. Call back soon.

Baz

Father Christmas comes to Morecambe

2010-01-05T15:56:00.006Z

Well hello all, happy new year. Glad that's out of the way for another year. Really enjoy christmas and new year but once New years eve is out of the way, the decs come down and it's back to normal ASAP.

As one would expect, it was quite manic in the Dyson house over the period and fortunately, father christmas didn't disappoint. Imogen got her fair share of gifts including a dolls house that she had written asking FC for one. She did look pretty upset after opening all the gifts in the sack and remembering she'd asked for a dolls house. She soon realised that he normally leaves bigger gifts in the dining room.

We had duck for dinner with Grandma and Grandad. Grandad was allowed home from the hospital for a few hours for dinner. He had been in for a week or so. Poor Grandad Phil, it was christmas day last year after dinner that he last went in. We told him (as we do every year) that we would make it a very special christmas this year. In a jokey sort of way. He laughs at it (fortunately).

Later in the day we descended on Immie's Uncle Jeff for the big family party. Surprise surprise, came home with another huge bag of pressies. Imogen's other Grandma and Grandpa always buy us all a stash of goodies.

New years eve was a good do. We had the neighbours round, Kay, Adam and Kids. We had a chinese takeaway for tea and then played Abba and Take That singstar on the Wii from 8pm until 0130. Was the best new year in ages cos I am always working the streets.

So now she is back at school and was really reluctant to go. Cried in fact going in. Soon be back into a routine. The word on the street is school is shut tomorrow due to the snow.

Immie is supposed to be at Manchester next week for a barium meal test. She had one a few years ago but it showed that her osophogus was ok and saw no problem for swallowing. Barium meal is a liquid I think, that goes in the tummy and shows up on x-ray. I am confident that all will be ok again, but as the surgeon has requested it, we should do as we are told. Still not swallowing much, same old on that score.

Anyway, if the snow is still bad, we'll shall postpone it as getting into Manchester is not looking brill.

Believe it or not, we have no holidays planned. We have a trip to Nanny's in February - just remembered, but still no plans for the caravan. Immie wants to go to the farm where we store it, to have a cup of tea in it. Sound like a plan - we are all withdrawing.

Health and happiness to ya.

Dyson

PS Loads of videos to watch below

Fat man has been

What's this?

Where's the main pressie?

Cute (bit of a din, but cute)
Check out the teacher on all fours at the end.

A face full of snow.

Sledging on a tea tray

Imogen's swimming lesson

2009-11-25T15:29:00.000Z

Are we exploiting this child by showing such a miserable pic?

Imogen is in the pink cap.

This is Simon and Jasmine. Jas really is being suspended in the air. Call the social. Moments later, simon got a face full of booby juice!!!

Hola all,

Well it's been a big bag of sick people in this household. Daddy has been a bit poorly, but as this site is Immie's then I should tell you about her. She has been a really sick bag lately, terrible nights. She has been burning up with raging temperatures and being sick in bed with lots of bed changes. She has been on the dioralyte instead of milk through the night. This is just water and a salt replacement, terrible drink but straight into the tummy and she has no idea.

She has also been having her oxygen back on at night just like old times sake - see pic. She created at first but has got used to it. This is just to help her out as her sats have been abysmal. Eating wise - Rubbish. Really taken a backwards step but guess what she wanted last night? Soggy chicken skin. Yup, chicken skin. It was from mine and Linz's chicken legs we were having. Now sometimes if it's crispy, we'll eat it but no it was minging and soggy. So, Ims got a strop on cos we said she could eat it. Anyway, we gave in. So she filled her mouth with greasy horrid skin. No she didn't swallow it! Oh night before, she wanted mustard, none of this ponsey french stuff. Hard case English. She had some after going on and on. "Ok Imogen, try it". She did! That'll be it until adulthood me thinks.

On this post there is a vid of Imogen having swimming lessons with her friend Elizabeth. Immie has been very clingy all her life in the pool, but these private lessons have done wonders for her confidence. The quality of the video is a bit ropey but ya can make her out in the pink cap. Sounds like we're posh having private lessons but it won't be for ever.

At the moment, Imogen is doing her nativity at school. Her line is, "Yes you can, shine star, shine" and "Thank you for coming to our show, we wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year". No she isn't saying it alone, she wouldn't and I'm unsure if she will even get onto the stage but hopefully she will surprise us.

Bad news troops, caravan is away for the winter. No photos this time - Sorry, you're all gutted I know.

T'ra.

Harrogate holiday

2009-11-09T19:39:00.000Z

Hi all,
just a short clip of Imogen running scared from the ducks.

Imogen is 99.1cm

2009-10-08T20:00:00.000+01:00

Imogen has been to see Doctor Peckam today at Lancaster infirmary. This was a general check up as she sees her periodically. Doctor Peckham was at the hospital the day she was born and remembers just how poorly Ims was. Every time we go back, she (doctor) always has a nice surprise.

She was weighed today and has put on a little bit of weight but we think she has lost some as she has been quite poorly recently. She has a nasty chesty cough and bogey nose and what with her being sick a bit she has likely lost some weight. Any road, she is 99.1 cm's. There is no way she can get in at Gulliver's world for free now!

Next week, she begins school full time and I think this will wipe her out. Even with just going half days for the last month she has been going (her own request) to bed earlier. We think she enjoys it, but at the moment it's mainly based on playing. They don't learn anything much yet, just a bit of story interaction. She already knows all 26 letters, which they start learning next year. Think we'll have to pull her back.

See yas

Ste and Donna's wedding

2009-10-08T19:59:00.000+01:00

Immie dancing with Jenny, a bridesmaid at Ste and Donna's wedding. As per usual she was cooed over.

Imogen and Lana Banana

2009-10-08T19:58:00.000+01:00

This was Lana bana who was on our table at the wedding. She was lovely and adored Imogen. (I'm not just saying that - she did!)

Mum and Imogen dancing

2009-10-08T19:57:00.000+01:00

Comment from Jeannette at St Mary's

2009-09-24T10:24:00.000+01:00

Hi
You may or may not remember me, I was (and still am!) a nurse on the neonatal surgical unit during Imogen's time on the unit (Jeanette) I cared for her during quite a few shifts and during those few short months (must have seemed like and eternity at the time) feel I got to know the three of you well, But I wouldn't know her now, Micky pointed us in the direction of your web page, saw the school photos, what a fit and healthy young lady she is, just gorgeous.

Take Care
Jeanette

Imogen's first day at school - Torrisholme Primary

2009-09-15T17:58:00.000+01:00

Well Imogen's big day finally arrived - 14th Sept 09. She is now officially at school. We set off on the long 100 yard walk from our front door to school at 0850 and arrived at 0852. The playground was full of joyous and excited little darlings with a somewhat overwhelmed Immie Dee. She was quiet and reserved but, to our surprise she kept the waterworks at bay.
Her new teacher is Mrs. Dowker, who seems really lovely and meets with Immie's approval. There is also Mrs. Anderton a nursery nurse in her class and due to Immie's feeding needs Mrs. Armstrong is on hand for her hourly fill.
So far, I think they have just played and got to know each other. Trying to find out what they have done is blood out of stone job with Immie. We think they have just played. So for the next 2 weeks she is there 9 until 12 and then 1230 to 3 in a couple of weeks. Then she goes for a full time week before half term. All seems daft to me. Kids eh! Never at school.
Dad is going to get the guitar out of the cupboard which he put away in April 05 and pick up where I left off. Oh and maybe a golf club..

T'ra
Baz

2009-09-15T17:27:00.000+01:00

Immie on a fly past in her Hummer. Check out the smooth gear change.

2009-09-15T15:59:00.000+01:00

This was us on the beach at Formby. We were staying in the caravan at Burscough

Immie goes to Annie

2009-09-15T15:48:00.000+01:00

Top pic is Immie outside the Lowery theatre when we took her to see Annie (actually Auntie Shaz did). These doggies are from the show. The big one plays Sandie.

Then we have a picture of Abi who Ims met at Burscough in the next caravan.

Comment from St Mary's

2009-08-23T20:18:00.000+01:00

WOW. I cannot believe just how grown up she is now! Going to school and everything!
Looking back at those photos of her as a tiny dot, really does remind me just how poorly she was. What a fighter.. All the staff from NNSU (Neonatal Surgical Unit) still refer to Imogen as the miracle baby. And they love to get the updates from you. Thank you for those... keep them coming.It’s fantastic to see her doing so well. Alison. S/N @ NNSU

Summer Holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:40:00.000+01:00

Summer holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:38:00.000+01:00

Summer holiday to Wales 09

2009-07-21T19:37:00.000+01:00

Hello all,
we have recently arrived home from our 10 day trip away in the caravan. Boy it was a busy one, plagued by a slight illness on Imogen's part. She developed a nasty cough part way through the holiday, which gave us all a few sleepless nights. However, in general we had a great time. Relaxing it wasn't as we fitted in numerous friends from around the areas that we went. We know too many folk! But it was great to see all of you that we paid a visit too?
The holiday started off great weather but turned to a damp squib eventually. Again it still didn't dampen our spirits. No pun...

Anyway, here's what we did:

Friday - Set off to Abbey Farm caravan park near Burscough. This is only 40 miles from home but we had Hayley, Colin and Harris to enjoy a couple of nights with us. They pitched in their tent next to us. It was a great site and felt like we could have been miles away. The weather was great.

Saturday - We all just had a chill day and stayed on the park. They have a play park where big kids Baz and Col played frisbee and kites. the kids weren't that interested. Harris and Imogen get on fab and are inseparable.

Sunday - The troops cleared out and headed for home in the afternoon, much to Immie's disappointement (and ours C&H). We headed off and met up with some friends in Ainsdale who we haven't seen for 3 years. The Plows are a lovely family (and I'm not saying that cos you paid for the chinese Cath and Darrol ;-) )who we met in hospital when Immie was poorly. They were in with their daughter Isabella who fortunately has taken all that was thrown at her and come out fighting fit. Jessica, their eldest daughter has an uncanny resemblance to Immie. Check out the pics. Anyway, it was great to see you all.

Monday - Loaded up the van and headed for Presthaven Sands at Prestatyn. Lovely in the morning but when we arrived in Wales the heavens opened. On arrival at the park, there was no pitch available as some dude was in our spot. Soon got that sorted!! Big Baz vented some fury and got the supervisor to sort it. Actually that's not true. It's just not me to shout and be angry at people. The nice supervisor spoke to the dude and got him to shift. However, this dude turned out to be a dude displaying acquiescence and moved. We later bought him a bottle of wine for his trouble. Not our fault but he could have stood his ground as he had booked it too.
Teatime, Jenny and her daughter Chantelle came to us for tea. They live in Kinmel Bay which is 5 miles or so from where we were. We sneaked them into the entertainment at night even tho you have to have a pass. We had 3 passes so me Jen and Chan went in, I went back out and gave 2 to Linz and Immie. Felt really devious but I'm sure security weren't arsed. Somehow me and Jen got roped into a game on stage, kind of musical chairs but the blokes were the chairs. We lost.

Tuesday - Chilled for most of the day but went over to Jen's for tea. In the evening we went to Rhyl and all went in the slots much to Immie's delight. She managing to curb her gambling though.

Wednesday - went to the Welsh mountain Zoo. Very impressed with a good Sealion pool. You know the old ball on nose, shake paws take a fish. Good weather, in fact pretty hot. Later on we went to The Beatty's in Llandudno. Zara, Gary, Tamla and Johnny took us in and fed us. A fine spread thank you Gary. We're looking forward to seeing you soon Zara and Johnny.

Thursday - Wet wet wet. Went back to Rhyl on the slots and fairground. Immie had some vouchers to redeem from her winnings on the slots. Went to the cabaret and slots in the evening back at the campsite.

Friday - upped sticks. Left for Tarporley, Cheshire. Another lovely site near Tarporley called The Hollies. It was a garden centre and organic farm shop with a deli to die for. We could have spent a fortune on goodies. The site was out at the back and really nice. But again it was a wet journey between sites. The Gill's came over for tea. I tell ya, our caravan is like a drop in centre for the hungry. It's always a pleasure to put you lot up.

Saturday - Went to Blakemere craft centre. They were having a fun day and it was pretty packed. There was a bit of a fair for Immie and candy floss for me. Love it on a stick (candy floss that is).
Saturday night was our last night and we were going out for a nice meal nearby. We all got togged up, but Immie, who not being on form decided she was too unwell to go. Even after a sleep she wanted to stay in. So off I headed to nearby Winsford for an Indian. I say near, seemed further when I got back to the van and realised I'd left a stash of beer in the takeaway. It was about 6 miles away so I had to hot foot it hoping that they were still on the Marie Claire mag I was reading. We couldn't ring them as I had no idea of the name or what part of town it was in. Alas, the dude behind the counter had stashed them away. I think he was secretly gutted I'd come back.

Sunday - Booooo, came home.

And that was it. Immie has had a good time but we're still battling to rid her of the cough. This in turn makes her reflux, so there's been plenty of sick recently. She did however, manage to attend her final day at pre school. I think all the Auntie's were sad but Immie didn't seem to bother. Maybe when she realises she isn't going back she may feel sad. Soon be time for big school, not long now.

Only 3 and a half week before we go off in the van again.

T'ra all.

Baz

PS Click the picks if ya want to blow them up.

Summer holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:34:00.000+01:00

Summer holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:33:00.000+01:00

Summer holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:31:00.000+01:00

We visited the Welsh mountain Zoo near Llandudno. Very good zoo too.

Summer holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:30:00.000+01:00

On the Friday, Sharron, Laura and Nathan came over to the caravan and had tea with us.

Summer Holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:28:00.000+01:00

Immie on the rides at Blakemere.

Summer Holiday 09

2009-07-21T19:24:00.000+01:00

This was on Saturday whilst at Blakemere craft fayre. As a caravanners we checked out the motorhomes on show. Not for us...yet!

More Immie pics

2009-07-08T16:09:00.000+01:00

Summer water fight

2009-07-08T15:58:00.000+01:00

Imogen and Lucy get a soaking in the sunshine.

2009-06-25T11:07:00.000+01:00

Just a few pics from the weekend while the weather has been hot, hot, hot!

Birthday dude is Harris! 5 years!!

Imogen's spring update

2009-06-10T19:20:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

this collection of photos and videos is a total mish mash of stuff over the past couple of months. There is the annual pic of the 3 of us by the cherry tree on her birthday. Imogen is definately growing at a better rate. However, reading the tag on the tree, it will reach 4 metres in 20 years and will likely pass Immie at some stage (hare and tortoise). £27.50 we paid for the tree prior to her 1st birthday. Wouldn't have remembered that but the price tag is still on.

There's some videos of her birthday party, grandad getting eaten by a goat, going it alone on a whoop-de-doop slide and dancing at the holiday park.

In the photos are pics of our trip away in the caravan with neighbours and other stuff.

See y'all.

Immie's bithday cakes made by Laura and Shaz.

Party video.

Pickering railway station. Spot Immie in red.

With cousins, Emma and Ben and Nanny
Immie and best friend Lucy on hols.

Set for a night of dancin'!

Someone push mummy of the cliff!

WPC Dyson (there is no such thing as WPC anymore as it's not politically correct- wpc is not pc)

Eat him alive, Billy! Video

Imogen's new electric Hummer jeep.

Dancing with Mummy. Video

Immie's first solo slide. Video

Grandma and Grandad came on hols with us

Holiday in Auchterarder - Scotland

2009-03-05T15:49:00.000Z

Hola troops,

been on us hols!! We live for holidaying. Working sucks, but worth it for family holidaying. Any road, we went to Scotland for a week. Well as it happens 8 days as we didn't want to go home and phoned the owner of the cottage to stay an extra day.
Auchterarder was the town we stayed in, in a nice little cottage (Townhead Cottage - available to rent at good rates). Weather was fab for the time of year and the week was pretty action packed.

Here's what we did:

Saturday - drove up and stopped in Moffatt for dinner. Go and see the singing potter if ever you are there. Arrived late afternoon and went out for tea in Aberuthven, nice pub called the Smiddy Haugh. Daddy had pidgeon to start and venison for main. Mummy had mushrooms to start (food of the devil) and sirloin for main. Imogen had pate for starters, main and dessert.

Sunday - Can't really remember, but we went to Crieff and had a drive round.

Monday - Went shopping to Perth.

Tuesday - Went on the park across the road from the cottage in morning. Afters, went to Perth to a cool swimming baths with rapids, 2 water shoots and slides for Immie.

Wednesday - Went to Aberfeldy. Let Linz drive as a treat (on the way back). We have a new car, it's splendid and needs to be treated like a lady. Went to the Dewars whisky distillery. Bought a nice bottle. Daddy nearly caused serious injury to Imogen. It could have been curtains for her!!

Thursday - Lindsey's birthday, She's 68!!! Doesn't look too good for it. In the morning and afternoon we went to Stirling castle, excellent, very well built and sure to keep out those pesky English. Think Ims was a bit bored by it.
Mummy wanted to go bowling afterwards, so we did. Immie came last in both games - cool result! No offence, but I'm in it to win it, no matter how old the competition! Linz won one, I won second game. Immie might have won the third - but we went off for somert to eat. Very good too. Pappa Joe's, Stirling - tops for steaks.

Friday - Called in at Gleneagles and bought an expensive golf shirt. It's the profit that makes it expensive!!! Went to Noah's Ark. Brill place for kids in Perth. Recommended, unless you're over 12 and single. There were big ball pools, Karting and bowling. As we'd been bowling the night before, we didn't bowl but the kartin was up my (daddy) street. There were twin seaters, slightly slow but quick enough to get some tyre screech on the hairpin corners - see movie. Daddy (me) had to drive one handed whilst holding Immie in place. The centrifugal force at 20 mph is phenominal! Daddy, turfed out said child and tried one of the fast karts. I have not put the movie of me on the blog, as I was just too fast for mummy to record. Anyway, Immie laughed all the way round. Then, as if we hadn't had enough excitement, we went back to the swimmimg centre.

Saturday - this was bonus day when we should have been going home. Car didn't move, so we went to the park... and the local pub. Saw stephen Hendry (snooker player) in his merc on the high street. He lives in Auchterarder. Was tooting his horn at his young lad. Noisy aiparth! Chilled sort of day.

Sunday - Booooo! Went home. Called in at the Falkirk wheel. Genius engineering. Stopped off at Gretna Green for a wee and coffee. Daddy prayed Mummy didn't ask to renew vows!! Daddy bought Mummy a chinese bowl set for the tea table - see Daddy loves Mummy really. Got home 1800 hours.

Th, Th that's all folks.

Daddy

Ps. there are 4 videos to view. Don't forget, you can enlarge the photos by double clicking them.

Gleneagles

Bowling and meal for Linz's birthday.

Stirling Castle

Plaits caused bad hair

The play park and the cottage.

We played Ker Plunk with Imogen - literally!

Falkirk Wheel

Chocolate mouth.

Bowling on mummy's birthday

Immie sings Mamma Mia

Sliding at Noah's Ark

Karting, check out the screetching tyres in the hairpin. Immie clings on for dear life.

Snow in Morecambe - 2nd Feb 09

2009-02-02T10:43:00.000Z

The faceless snowman.

Cool! (literally)

Snow fell and properly, an amazing one inch of it. Jut like when we were young. Dragged Immie out of bed and straight into the garden. It's the first time she's seen proper snowy snow and I don't mean that crappy ice stuff that you convince yourself is snow. She did see snow when she was tiny. We had her in her baby walker with oxygen out in the garden 3 years ago. That must have been the last time it snowed.

Anyway, me and Imogen started to build a snowman. She got bored after 2 minutes...I did after 5. Too damn cold. I'm thinking it's about 7 inches and faceless.

Bored of the snow already. Gonna call her in before she gets cold!

TTFN

PS are you impressed? I have taken pics and posted on the blog with 10 mins of taking them.

Imogen has two left feet, it ends in tears.

2009-01-23T16:47:00.000Z

Two post in a week! It's only because I have sussed putting video clips on. Lets face it, pics and vids are far more interesting than words.

Last week we went with hayley, Colin and Harris to Blackpool tower to watch Aladdin. In the morning we went in the tower ballroom where twinkle toes Rogerson waltzed an besotted Dyson onto the famous floor. It all went pear shaped which you can see.

Immie in Jungle Jims, Colin and Imogen

Video in the ballroom

Christmas 08 and stuff - got a video clip too

2009-01-20T17:29:00.000Z

With her prsents from father Christmas

Na then groovers,

S'pose I should get some blurb on da blog and big it up massive!! (trying to sound young)

Medical update bits. Imogen is going at her usual pace regarding her eating and doing OK ish! Same old really but she'll be reet. And that chaps is it. Oh went to see Dr Rakowski - the dude that did her original surgery. We trot over to Manc just to reset the clock. He said, "Why errr she no eat errr", (he's Hungarian or somert like that, talks in broken english). He says same thing every time we see him. Think we replied, "Dunno". Any road, we sacked that bit off and talked about her chest drain scars. He said that he or some plastic surgeon eventually will fix it up in time.

She is doin brill at school. Writing her name, counting to 39 (don't ask why it stops there) and texting her mates. Ok, lied about the last, she has no mates. Lied again.

For christmas she got her long awaited pusher. Blue with bees on. She can do kerb endos, 360's an slam it on the rear from ours to the Jubilee club. Baz, what's wrong with ya - ya don't often tell porkies - but the 80's BMX lingo is coming back. We have had a few trips down the prom with Harris, Hayley and Colin and on boxing day, Simon and Janet. This time next year, Simon and Janet!!!! Be pushin a pram - woo hoo. Not us. Si is the sperminator. Well done dude.

Anyway, christmas, yes, fun, pressies food the usual sort of stuff. Chrismas is a time for the little ones. Who quoted that bilge? I got loads of cool stuff but alas this is Im's blog. Grandma and Grandad came for dinner with Phil pretty ill and on Immie's oxygen. After dinner, he went to the hospital, there he styed for 10 days and saw in the new year. In the afters, we went up to Uncle Martin and Auntie Sharon's for the pressie giving ceremony. Immie still has stuff that she's yet to play with. She got far too much but hey!

Another 4 weeks from now and we are on our way to Scotland where we have booked into a cottage near Gleneagles. Log burner included and I'm sure we'll get cosy and toasty. Think the Mrs has romantic plans for the rug before it!

Had a bad do a few months ago with a log burner and a tin of butane. We're still here - just!!

Come back soon troops.

Bazza

Ps for the first time, Video.

Quarterly Update - it's a poor show!

2008-11-11T14:31:00.000Z

Above - at Grandad's garden.

Left - On holiday at Scotland.

Edinburgh Castle

The wet caravan weekend. Kay smiling behind gritted teeth and enjoying herself!

Adam, Millie, Sam and Linz.

The caravan, just so you don't forget it!

Cousins Emma and Ben.

It really is a poor show on the part of the blog author. Listen up, I have been a busy boy. I have recently completed decorating the lounge. It took 3 months and pretty much all my spare time. Well maybe not all, but it's a reasonable excuse.

Anyway, I'm sure know most of you will know what we've been up to as we've probably seen you all since our hols and such like.

It has been pointed out by someone who shall remain nameless, (*aul *ooper, *igh *ycombe, *ucks) that the blog has lost it original meaning and focus. Effectively being more of a Dyson diary. So PC, I shall focus more on the subject. I know it was meant in jest.

Any road, Imogen is fab at the moment. We had a blip in health, which resulted in us taking her to hospital but we got turfed out. They know at the hospital we have all the facilities at home to give her the best care and I think they know we give her the best attention. It was just some sort of viral infection, but it knocked her out for about 10 days or so. She was back on the oxygen and quite a lot of it. She hated it.

I think since last time I blogged, we have really mastered toilet training (lumps and liquids!! - that's Imogen by the way!!). It's rather extreme though and she wants to go every 15 minutes - just so she can go and wash her hands and put hand cream on. I think she's got a compulsion disorder.

Regarding food stuff, pretty much the same. Still filling her mouth chip monk style. Some days are better than the other. We have had to start applying for funding for when she starts school. That will be to fund someone being able to feed her. It maybe that they will train up a teacher to do it. You know, any Tom, Dick or Harry could do it, but health and safety malarky rubbish.

For Christmas she has asked for a bike - a blue one! We had her buzzing round Halfords last week on one that has bees on. She has to write to fat boy in Lapland though and be good. She doesn't want to wear a helmet though. Vanity already!

She is loving her pre-school at the moment and doing very well. They have said that her colouring is very advanced and that she is very caring towards other children. She doesn't like to see others crying and has great concern. She isn't overly interactive with others but she does have a small circle of friends.

The internet has been discovered and has to be limited to the time she spends on Cbeebies website. She drag and drops in puzzles and plays Bob the builder game and can paint Thomas' engine shed. Believe it or not, she can now type her own name unaided (can't find the shift lock yet for capitals). Tell ya what else she does, loads and unloads the DVD player to watch her films. But, properly. Replaces DVDs in their rightful place and holds them using the hole. How long will that last before she can't be arsed?

As per usual, we have been on loads of weekend trips away. We never seem to be at home for more than 5 minutes. We have been to Edinbugh for 10 days recently. OK, ages ago in September but after my last post.

We went to Ecclefechan for 3 nights with Kay, Adam and kids (neighbours). Us in our caravan (have I mentioned our caravan?) and them in their tent. Pissed it down, just like our Ireland holiday, but we had a great time. We 3 then headed north up to Seton Sands - Haven holday park - just along the coast from Edinburgh. We went for 5 days where it was reasonable weather. Immie was dancing every night in the cabaret and going on the slotties, (much to the dismay of Grandma Sylvia). We did beechy things and a trip to Edinburgh. On route back, we towed the van in high winds back down to Locherbie. Stayed at a less lively sight but pleasant for just one night before heading home. You'll be pleased top know, she (van) has gone into storage for the winter.

As you know, Immie maybe have a brother or sister this time next year. Things are under way.

Who knows what next year will bring? Maybe a new years resolution - Weekly blogging? Watch this space....

Few weekend pics

2008-08-10T15:06:00.000+01:00

Just a quickie! Been in the old caravan again to Settle. This time we went with Hayley, Colin and Harris. It was 2 weeks ago on that scorching weekend where summer arrived and went. They had their tent pitch next to us and Immie and Harris had loads of fun and got on really well together. We even had a barbie, the weather was fab.
Only another 3 weeks then we're off to Edinburgh with the van in tow. You lucky lot...bet ya can't wait to see the photos. Stayed tuned!

Imogen really didn't want to get her feet wet. Was darn cold though.

This is with Megan from Bolton. Had a few beers with Karen and Paul (mum and dad) on Sunday night. Fellow novice caravaners.

In Skipton

Time out from her hectic schedule.

Lucious lushes!

Feeding the quacks.

"What's that?"

Colin needs those tweezers for his banger!

Going to Leeds in September to have a consult for IVF again. Thought we'd take our 5 embryos out of the fridge, see what happens.

Ta ta for now.

Baz

Weekly blog update - Not!

2008-07-11T13:02:00.000+01:00

Before I start, you may have had an email to state the blog is now updated. You see, I can put 10 people in the memory to automatically email on posting the blog. So if you got an email, you know I regard you in our top 10. If you discovered it without, you are either a stranger or I don't like you as much as you thought. (Joking)

Johnny - Llandudno

It takes an age to do this bloggin lark. It's the editing of images to make them a smaller file size that's the ball acher. That folks, is why the blog doesn't get done as often as it should. How do these anoraks manage to update a blog daily?
What ya want first? A) Immie's development update or B) what we've been doing type news? Ok, A it is.

Went to Alder Hey yesterday to see the neurological dude there to discuss her eating. Walked into the consultation and there were 7 big wigs. Crikey! Now I was thinking, between them, if there's no answers here, we're knackered. Any road, we're knackered. The consensus is naff all else to do but wait. Kind of resigned to that anyway. We had 30 mins of waffle and being told how great we are doing with Imogen, but that was it. We're alright with it though. Food costs are through the roof and to be fair, I could do with the extra dosh to fuel the motor. She is still at the same level of putting bits in her mouth and have bits of juice but that's it. The oxygen is still during the night and some nights she goes without so doing fine. She has been to her dietician today and she's lost weight. We're gonna give her extra milk through the day. She does look a bit puny.

Bloody freezin'

We have been to Ireland t'other week. It was wet! I had a stinking cold one day, backache another and gut rot another. Guinness was 5.50 euros (£4.30) a pint. We had a fab holiday. No, really we did. The weather didn't spoil it but would have been nice without it.

We set off on the Friday and stayed over night in Llandudno with friends, Zara and Gary and their kids, Jonnie and Tamla. That was the sunniest day we had. (first pic at top is Jonnie). We moved on to Holyhead on the Saturday for a quick trip on the seacat to Dublin. By now it was pissin down, (See pic below). It rained all the way down to Wexford where our bungalow was. It was about 80 miles south of Dublin in a town called Courtown. Little harbour type place.

The bungalow

The bungalow was really good - see pic taken on a reasonably sunny day. We pretty much took it easy most of the week and tried not to rush around. We had a run down to Waterford to go to the crystal factory. Now, we went a few years ago, but I thought it would be nice to get something to bring home. Didn't really consider how far it was from Courtown. It was a drag. About 80 miles, but remember there is no motorway. We managed to wangle a free trip round the factory as a nice lady told us to jump on the tour as one was just goung. That nice lady saved us 20 euros (£16 or 4 pints of guinness). After the tour, we looked round the shop. Lots of nice stuff to buy, but we couldn't afford owt. We took diddly squat home. Well miffed.

The beach in Courtown was nice and had a couple of trips to it. There was a kiddies fair nearby and Immie went on the train everyday. Two nights we went ten pin bowling. There was a bit of a competition between me and Linz with Linz suggesting the stake. I'll not divulge the details but I whooped her ass in the games - was a great evening!

The harbour with Mum and Immie.

Strike!!!

We were in the bungalow for 7 nights and left on the Saturday and headed back to Dublin. There we had a couple of nights in a hotel on the outskirts of town. Now, by chance it was the Irish Derby on the Sunday and I thought, well here's an opportunity. I broke it in gently during the week to the ball and chain. Bingo, all it took was a promise to Dublin zoo. Not a bad deal. So Saturday we went to the zoo. I'm not a zooey person but it was good.

Above - Imogen and mere cats

Right - Linz, lookin darn fine!

On the train ride round the zoo. Laughing at the chimps.

Mum and dad, taken by Immie at the Derby - Curragh.

Find the donkey!

Sunday evening in Dublin on the Liffey.

Me and linz have been in the restaurant on 2 previous trips to Dublin and have a photo on our bedroom wall at the same table.

We now have the complete version.

Temple bar, dirty stop out!

Chantelle, and Jenny and John at Kinmel Bay on way back through Wales.

You know that feeling when you get back off holiday and you need another to get over it. Well, 3 days after getting back from Ireland we tootled off to Clitheroe in the caravan.

That's all folks. Have a merry christmas and a happy new year! TTFN.

We are still alive and Imogen is 3

2008-04-20T18:38:00.000+01:00

Just a quickie!Loads to tell but I'm off to work soon and tea's on t'table (dad's playing hell - private Dyson joke!).In brief, Immie had her 3rd birthday.We went to Hexham again.We have bought a caravan.Immie still doesn't eat.She has a wee on her potty.And erm... what else...I have a new shed (breaking news)So I'll cut the boring stuff and bang on a few pics. We are going on another hol tomorrow. Only across the bay to Flookborough in a static caravan for a few 5 days. It's a holiday park with entertainment and dancing for Immie at night. Seems daft to go static now we bought a caravan, but it was booked yonks ago.Any road, love ya all. (maybe not all of ya - don't take it personally)Baz

Me and Immie on a relic (no not Linz) at an Emu farm near Penrith.

Johnny did the kids faces at the birthday party.

The caravan. Bailey Ranger 460/4, 1300 KG, end bathroom, Bescot awning, remote control mover, central heating... are you all listening?

With a bucket on her head. Surely not ashamed of her red hair yet?

*Check out the pic on the right, gorgeous. It's in the genes ya know!
* Imogen got her wendy house that she wanted for her birthday.
*We took the annual birthday pic by the tree, but Immie had a cob on. Ya can tell.

*Check out the pic top right, bad hair day. She had just got up to open pressies.

Don't forget, click on image to enlarge

On Adams drum's next door. He is selling them for a grand to buy his annual membership at Heysham golf club. Offers around £900.

Update

2008-02-06T14:55:00.000Z

Cleaning bears teeth

Rose "Mother" Makin, she's lovely

Andy Makin on left, So long and good luck with ya chick.

Harris, Col and Immie having a story.

How did that pic get there twice?

Hello,

I have been told by someone that I always start the blog saying "Sorry it's been a while...".

I am not sorry it's been a while, (no, I am sorry - see, couldn't help myself).

Well Immie Dee is still doin just tickety boo. Still off the oxygen through the day and goes back on at night when she goes to bed. We have just recently stored the concentrator under the stairs and out of the way. We'll keep it in case of emergency. Her oxy flow is very low now, (0.1 litre per min) and a cylinder is sufficient and lasts ages. Gone are the days of being on 0.5 litres 2 years ago and not been able to take time off.

Her feeding is still not too good. The odd nibble here and there which she has a tendancy to store food between her bottom front teeth and her gums. We are going to Alder Hey and Pendlebury to see more feeding specialists in the coming months. We are still feeding her by milk pump during the night into her "Gaz" gastrostomy. For the first time the other day, she took some orange flavoured medicine orally. Generally coz we made a big issue of it been yummy orange flavour.

Her speech is coming on and using bigger and bigger sentences. She was looking at an Argos catalogue and say to Mummy, "I go on the internet". She says some funny things. Sometimes often very adult talk.

Sometimes she has been sent to the naughty corner if she won't do something but it's rare. I'm glad to say she has never fallen into the terrible twos catagory. Can't imagine if we have another, we could be so lucky again!!

We are planning more hols this year. Imogen is fortunate to go on a few trips each year and this year is no exception. March we are off to Hexham house again for the respite care home. We think it will be our last time as she isn't really as deserving as some children and we feel guilty about going this next time, but we have been asked. In April we are going to the lakes with Grandma and Grandad for a few days in a static caravan on a Haven holiday park which should be fun (as along as mother in law behaves). Then June we are going in a cottage to Wexford, Ireland for 10 days. Hope the weather is good, never can tell. I'm sure there will be other trips to our many friends and relatives around the country too.

There are only a few pics this update. We have saved loads of pics on the comp from christmas and stuff during January, but I can't find them. So the pics are all in the last week.

Any ideas on feeding if your child has similar probs please let us know, glad to hear any ideas.

T'ra for now,

Love us lot. xx

Cheeky Chappy: Kaden, Another survivor!

2007-12-22T14:44:00.000Z

Hello all,

We had this email and pics sent from proud parents, Mike and Gil. As you can see, Kaden is an adorable boy who faced some of the challenges that Imogen did. He is yet another success story and we hope people reading this will take something positive from their story. One of the pictures shows Kaden hooked up to a ventilator like Imogen and it brings back memories. We are sure Kaden will go from strength to strength and we wish him and his parents lots of love and luck for the future.

Baz

Hi,

I have just come across your website and am delighted your ‘special little girl’ is doing so well! Our son Kaden was born in July this year with the same defect- and like you we were painted a very bleak picture. Kaden is being fed 20 hours a day by a machine with high calorie milk as he is struggling to put on weight, and wont look at a bottle as he has really bad reflux.
I have attached a few pictures of our special boy who we named Kaden – after finding out at a 18 week scan how ill our boy was and had a 50/50 chance of survival at birth, Kaden means ‘fighter’ and he certainly has had the biggest fight of his life.
I’m so glad I came across your site, as this gives us hope for the future for our boy Kaden who will be 5 months old on Xmas Day – and I hope he does as well as Imogen.

Best Regards
Gil

Mickey Peg (He's the man!)

2007-10-22T21:24:00.000+01:00

Dancing on at Aberystwyth

Don't forget, you can double click to enlarge pics

Cardigan Bay

Swimming at Hexham

The Cotton Crew

Mickey Peg

Now then troopers. It's been a while, Google will be booting us out for lack of blogging. You know how it is. All the best intentions, time is scarce but I will make more of an effort.

Any road, what's been happening in Immie's life? She's ace in case we hadn't said before. She has recently been back to hospital and had her gastrostomy removed and a new "Mickey Peg" put in its place. Much easier! The peg is like an air bed valve and hooks up to a syringe for her feeds and medication. It's like going to refil with petrol, but alot cheaper (don't get me started on the price of fuel).

No she is still not eating. The occasional bite of chocolate or a yoghurt is all she will eat but it's generally through bribary to leave the table or go and watch TV. If anyone has any ideas please get in touch but I think we have tried everything. Come spring, we are thinking of starving her, with the aid of the hospital to keep an eye on dehydration.

She is beginning to string words together such as "that's the same car" was what she said on seeing one the same as ours.

We visited the Rainbow House at Hexham the other week which we went to last February. It's a charity and the idea is to give parents a respite in looking after terminally ill children or kids with lifelong illnesses. I think really Immie is no longer in either catagory but we were asked and we did say that we didn't think we were worthy. Anyway we went and had a great time.

This weekend we went to see our cousin. The Cotton crew, (weren't they an 80's band - "I just died in your arms tonight?") David and Sarah and their offspring, Robbie and Alex who live near Manchester put us up for the night and used to accomodate us at short notice when Immie was in hospital. Sarah tortured me for my own benefit?!?! More of that another time, use your imagination. David is a far better drinker than me and can pack it away, well he did last time we visited.

We watched England against S.Africa in the rugby, total cack! Then watched Villa get trounced by Scum bags on MOTD, double cack!!

Then on Sunday went to the park and Manc airport to let Immie watch the planes taking off and landing. Sarah went to sleep, it's just not exciting when you live so close to the airport.

See pics of our fun weekend.

Anyway, 9 weeks until christmas!!!

Thanks for tuning in,

Baz, Linz and Immie Dee Massive

September Update

2007-09-20T21:25:00.001+01:00

We are away on our hols again this time in a static caravan in Wales. Fantastic weather all week even managed a day on the beech and some time paddling in the sea much to Imogens great amusement. There was a caberet at night on the site which Immie loved dancing on the dance floor to sometimes having the dance floor to herself. Some late nights had by all.

Monday 15th August

Immie started play group today. She will go one morning every week. I left her there for an hour which was hard for me but she never even noticed I had gone as she was having too much fun and when I left she was playing with some water with other kids. It was really nice as she is know managing about 8 hours day off her oxygen so she went to the group without it and could run around with the other kids without me following her closely behind. Next week I am planning on leaving her for the full two and half hours, think it will be good for her. I was hoping without me being there she may join in with snack time with the other kids and copy them eating, but she didnt do it the first week. Her eating at the moment is virtually nil and seems scared of putting things in her mouth now as food goes to her mouth but not in. Lots of perserverance and patience will get her there eventually.

August Update

2007-09-20T21:14:00.000+01:00

Well its been a while since we updated blog, no excuses just dont know where the year is going!!! We have all be up to lots since last update. had a brilliant day out with good friend Sharron and her daughter Laura who Imogen loves to bits and laughs at everything she does, we went to gullivers world in Warrington which is a fun park for smaller kids. Imogen cried on the first ride she went on but by the third ride couldnt get her off. It was a really good day and well worth the money. Planning on going again in few weeks before it closes for the winter. Have some photos of the day but Baz will need to put them on and he is working.

Towards the end of August Immie told us she had had a poo in her nappy two days running, which was brill as she is happy to sit in it all day long if you havent noticed, so we thought this was huge breakthrough in maybe trying to potty train however it was a one off and she is still happy to sit in it!!!

We have started trying to wean her off oxygen a few hours a day and by end August she is managing about 3 - 4 hours a day off. Thought it would be a long time before she would be able to manage but as with everything she does she has surprised us again.

Immie Dee's latest update.

2007-07-18T11:18:00.000+01:00

Since last month we have had alot of mails from people all over the world via Immie's site and thought I'd post a few to look at. This is exactly why we set the site up originally, not to get a pat on the back but to share experiences and give advice where possible. Some we get are sad but most are following more positive experiences after the birth of a CDH baby.We're really chuffed to get letters from people who were born with it and tell us of the great things they achieve.

Hello,

My names Natasha, I'm 24 I was born like Imogen. I was given a 50% chance of living. My doctor says I was put on this earth to do something special, I fought all odds, other than getting short of breath I've always been able to do the same as my friends. I'd like to hear more about Imogen.

I've never known of anyone being born with this type of hernia. Normally they either operate while the child is in the womb or within 48 hours of delivery. My mum had a gut feeling something wasn't right with me when she took me home. Instead of dirtying nappies I was being sick. Within the first week of me being born my mum took me to our GP. He told her "she was an over protective mother with me being her first born, if anything it might be colic". She wasn't happy with the diagnosis so took me back to the GP this time he told her it was beacuse she smoked while I was in the womb. Mum took me elsewhere, the doctor there knew something was wrong. I was six weeks old before they found the hernia. From there I was rushed to Pendlebury hospital in Manchester. I was in there for six weeks. I was left with a shadow on my left lung. I've been having some trouble with my stomach recently they dont think it has anything to do with how I was born but they have to rule that out. I'm currently having some tests. I'll keep you posted on that. If theres anything else that you'd like to know please ask. Take care,

Natasha xx

Hi Barry and Lindsey

Your website and the story of Imogen's birth has really inspired and encouraged us as we are going through some of the things which you have experienced. My wife Toni and I are expecting our first child and at the 20 week scan wewere told that our little boy has a right sided diaphragmatic hernia. We are surrounded by the best fetal medicine experts here in New Zealand and we know they will do all that they can. So we have quite a bit more of the journey to go to find out if our little boy Ethan will make it, but we just want to know that your story has inspired people on the other side of the world here in New Zealand. Yours was a true story about a real family like us and doesn'tjust talk about survival rates and percentages! We hope your little girl enjoys a full life and that you continue to inspire many other people around the world with your story. You can keep up to datewith our progress on our website:http://www.driller.co.nz/blog/?p=78

Marcus and Toni Driller

Auckland New Zealand

Thanks for your email – things seem to be going okay recently and we are really just at the stage of wait and see at the moment, but we are feeling pretty peaceful about it all. Glad to hear that Imogen is being weaned off the heart medicine!Take care

Marcus, Toni (and Ethan!)

Baz - As I said at the top of the page, there are some positive comments coming through. I will post some more soon. If anyone wants to messages passing or questions asking to the above, send them to me and I'll forward them. However, the above mails from the Driller family in NZ have a website to follow Ethan's progress. Have a look and say a prayer for them.

See you shortly!

Baz

Imogen's holiday update

2007-06-11T11:57:00.000+01:00

Don't forget, double click the images to enlarge. Why can I never put the piccies tidily - it's the system!

Hi all,

It's been a while. Her gastrostomy is looking to be succuessful - in a physical way. Still nothing doing with her wanting to eat yet even though we keep offering her stuff, but it's of no interest. If anyone has experience of the gastrostomy and failure to eat - please get in touch.

Been on our hols down south to see Uncle Dave, (not real Uncle, friend Uncle - actually he is an Uncle but not to us). Dave lives at Thames Ditton, a posh leafy suburb where beer cost £3.50 a pint. We stayed with Dave for 4 nights and had a great time visiting the area. Unfortunately, Dave's wife; Sim flew to Singapore the day we went, for business and to visit relatives so didn't get to see her.

After Dave's was a trip up to see Nanny in High Wycombe which isn't too far from Dave's. Again we stayed 4 nights, didn't get up to much but chilled and Immie enjoyed playing with Miltie; Nanny's dog.

Don't think I put on the blog previously, but we went up to Silloth with Grandma and Grandad a few weeks ago. We were on a nice caravan park for a weekend. Imogen was dancing nightly and putting on a show of her own for the holiday makers. The park has Foxy as a mascot and Immie loved dancing with the big shaggy dude, Foxy is da man!! Baby Foxy now lives at home and sleeps with her. Then later that week we went to York to see Gaz and Nadia and their new baby; Miles.

Miles is the spits of Gaz but with out the mutton chops and glasses. Great weekend, good sun and plenty of beer. See pics.

Immie also started walking unaided. On the day Morecambe won at Wembley. Was a great day on numerous accounts. It has taken her months of walking around the furniture but eventually plucked up the courage to let go. Go Immie Go! And she does.

Laters

Baz

Immie's 2nd birthday and Gastrostomy op

2007-04-23T23:00:00.000+01:00

The pics got jumbled and I can't seem to blend them into the wording - never mind. You know you can double click them to enlarge. Titling them is a pain so you can see for yourself what they are. Compare the 2 between us with the tree last year, haven't they blossomed.

Greetings troops,

Well since the last post Immie Dee has had a birthday and her long awaited Gastrostomy operation.

Her birthday on the 9th was again hectic. It was spread out over the Easter weekend and the weather was glorious. On the Saturday, the day prior to her birthday, she had a tea party for her and 4 other friends. They all played in the garden and then had a the usual kiddy food to eat. Apart from Immie who just played with it.

The following day we had the neighbours - Rudds and James family -round for a barbie. It was the first of the year with the annual lighting of the dry christmas tree - well worth keeping for 4 months. This a spectacular event that gets me and Adam excited. Once the beer has flown and we're all stuffed. Gently place 1 nicely browned 5 feet swedish pine on simmering barbie. Patiently wait for one needle to take hold and watch the bad boy woosh up like... erm a dried out christmas tree. * NB health and safety message, keep kids and flapping wives back and hose pipe at the ready. It's a man thing. Watch for the next blog entry, Adam next door still has his to do, a visual recording will be posted.

Anyway back to Immie - It is her blog after all. So she had a great time and was exhausted by the excitement. On the Monday, her birthday, she didn't wake until 9am. She had so many cards, that after opening about a dozen she got fed up. We spread the rest over the day. The amount of presents were spread over 2 days. Family came (and went, thank God! ; - ) - love you all, don't think they read this anyway). In the afternoon, I cleared off to the footie (Morecambe 4 - Halifax 0) so can't tell you what happened. So that's that. Oh yeah, we took a photo next to her cherry tree we planted on her 1st birthday. You can see for yourself how they have both blossomed in the past year.

Now, operation. Last Monday after thinking we may try Alder Hey hospital, the letter came through with a date. For the following day!! Quick action was taken to take day's off and for accomodation to be arranged at friends near to Manchester (Pendlebury hospital). We went on the Tuesday morning and the op was done in the afternoon. The gastrostomy is a little tube that hangs out of her tummy and we just plug her feeding pump into that. Doddle! Except it's still a little sore when we touch it. We have called it Gaz, so when we want to feed her or put medicine down, we ask for Gaz and she gets it out. Even helping to push the meds in. We'll keep you posted on her progress of eating and drinking.

Immie was unfazed by her 4 days in hospital. She watched loads of DVD's with her head phones on which caused amusement to staff and patients. When we were leaving, she even wanted to stay and kicked up a fuss when packing up.

Think that's it. Job's a good 'un!

T'ra

Baz

Trip to Nanny Bagshaw's

2007-03-30T15:44:00.000+01:00

Top to Bottom - Nanny and Immie, Immie doing her own nebulizer, Drinking from a syringe, visiting Grandad Bagshaw and with Emma and Ben

Now then all,

yet again we all enjoyed another trip, this time down to south to Sunny High Wycombe. We went to see Nanny Bagshaw and family, travelling down on the friday and came back last Monday night. Despite Mummy not being on top form healthwise we still went anyway. Paul (step brother in law - if there is such thing) and myself went off on a freebie to watch Wycombe Wanderers play Boston. Whoa! Riveting stuff, but hey, free food and beer and complimentary tickets won in the local school raffle. 0-0 by the way. I'm thinking Morecambe Fc will be visiting WWFC next season. Any road, Immie had a great time playing with cousins, Emma and Ben. Thanks for looking after her during our visit last Saturday. The rest of the weekend we chilled out and did very little. When you visit Nanny Bagshaw she insists on looking after us and not allowing us to do owt. She won't even let me wash the pots. She insists on putting them in the washer. But I know she doesn't trust me as she thinks I will break them. I think I had a bad run off washing up breaking 2 items about 5 years ago. Anyway, I am not complaining.

Still no news on the gastrostomy. I think we will be trying to go to Alder Hey in Liverpool because we seem to be getting nowhere at Manchester. In another 4 weeks we will be going away again. She is a lucky lassie is Immie. Grandad and Grandma Lillington are treating us to a weekend in Silloth at a caravan park. Now Silloth is at the end of the earth plus an extra 50 miles. Think they should rename the place Sloth! Just hope there are good amusements in the park.

Stay tuned folks.

Bazzer

Hexham Holiday

2007-03-04T19:22:00.000Z

Hello all,

Had a fantastic time up in Hexham in Northumberland staying at a house called "Fernstone", which is a respite home provided by "Rainbow Trust". It is provided to parents with children who have a life threatening illness or who are terminally ill. We were well looked after by a number of staff over the 5 days, they fed and watered us and even did our washing and ironing. There was an indoor swimming pool that Immie loved and a sauna for me. I'm not into swimming, roasting myself and relaxing in the sauna is more my thing. Can you chill out in a sauna?

We spent the week with another family from Sunderland. Parents Beccy and Mark were there with their 2 kiddies; Lilly and Hannah. Lilly was 4 and Hannah was slightly older than Imogen. Immie had a fab time with Lilly, who doted on her. Unfortunately, Hannah has a rare chromazone disorder and is not able to physically interact. She is a lovely little girl and was clear to see she gave mum and dad a lot of pleasure. Lilly had trouble pronouncing Imogen, she said In ja min, or something like that. So she called her "Little Tinker". In her thick Sunderland accent she would say, "L'il Tinka". She'd say, "Does the L'il Tinka wanna play in the toy room or, "Where's the L'il Tinka?" Sounded funny from a 4 year old. It was nice to see them playing well together. Beccy and Mark were on their honeymoon. I bought them a bottle of bubbly to celebrate, Mark to my amusement sank it all himself and didn't offer me a taster. Cheers mate! I'm not being serious dude.

"Rainbow Trust" is a self finacing charity and everyone involved works very hard to keep the house open. We will be sending our donation soon and will try and do some fund raising for them. A big thanks to all the staff who made us feel very welcome.

This is the second time I have typed this post. My darling wife came in and tried to help put the images in place better than how I had done it. She hit a button and all the text and pics went. I couldn't retrieve it. I'm off now to pin her down and with a continuing action of right palm against left buttock, shall replicate a beautiful sunset across Morecambe Bay. Stayed tuned for images of it here soon. Bye for now.

Posting messages on the blog

2007-02-23T14:22:00.000Z

Hi,
we've had a number of people telling us they tried to send a message on the blog but found it to be a problem. If you have a problem, you can send an email in the contact section and we will put them on the blog.
Immie Dee is coughing her head off at the mo and having rubbish nights. Hope it doesn't get worse...
TTFN
Baz

Message from June and Abby

2007-02-20T11:29:00.000Z

Hello guys,

Just wanted to say that you have a beautiful little girl and are telling the wonderful story of her life. Imogen looks really wicked.

I picked up your site from the link from Lauren and Avery's site. I got in touch with Lauren when Avery was born as my daughter was also born with CDH in October 2005. She too like your little one is a survivor and is doing well, luckily the only issue we have with Abigail is her weight, at 16 months she is just under 16 pounds, but apart from that she is doing ok.

Just wanted to wish you all the very best and to say how again how gorgeous Imogen is.

Good luck and lots of love

June and Abby x x x

Baz - Thanks for the kind words June and love to Abby xx

Cute pictures

2007-02-20T10:24:00.000Z

This is Immie with her friend Eliza.

A little angel named Avery

2007-02-18T11:31:00.000Z

Hi all,
Lindsey found a site about a little angel named Avery who was born in Canada, like Immie with CDH. Avery's mum, Lauren has started this site for the same reasons as us, to bring awareness to diaphragmatic hernia and to offer hope. Avery gave Lauren 17 happy days before being taken away, but Lauren's attitude is amazing, she is a very strong lady. We will be putting a link to her site shortly but you can visit her site at http://laurenziebart.spaces.live.com/. Also as part of the site is links and stories of CDH survivors. This is a site that Linz and I now have in our favourites and are sure to keep a regular update. God bless you Avery XX

Lauren emailed the following:

Dear Barry,

I would be so honoured if you could link Avery's site to yours. Thank you so very much for asking me. I read what Lindsey wrote in Avery's guestbook and immediately visited Imogen's site. She is such a beautiful girl and every survivor I read about fills me with hope that CDH will one day be no more. I read every single word on her site, and it filled me with so many emotions - there was so much familiarity. I wanted to comment, but was unable to find out how, and I want you to know that I am so happy that you wrote. Please feel free to link Avery's website, as my ultimate goal was to share her with the world, and raise awareness of this birth defect that I had never heard of until it touched my life. God bless Imogen and your family. May she continue to thrive.

Love Lauren

Date for Gastrostomy is a no go and holiday

2007-02-17T22:29:00.000Z

Now then, got at date for the op after pestering for some time. Wouldn't you credit it, it's when we're away. We're a bit torn about cancelling the hol or postponing the op again. Unfortunately, we will opt to do the latter. We are going on a 5 day trip to Rainbow House at Hexham in Northumberland. This is a charity run retreat for parents and ill kids. Not that Immie is ill, but classed as high dependancy due to her oxy and feeding pump and they say we qualify. The people there look after parents while we look after Immie. They make your meals, washing and ironing etc. At short notice it's unlikely another couple could take our place hence our reason we are still going. Last time the hospital cancelled our appointment at the 11th hour and there's nowt to suggest they won't do it again. If anyone reads this, leave a post as we haven't had any yet apart from friends or family, (not that we aren't grateful). Be nice to know people are looking at the site. Th th th that's all folks... Baz

Bronchiolitis Jab is a nightmare

2007-02-02T17:27:00.000Z

Immie went for her bronchiolitis jab today and she absolutely hated it. She has it every month throughout the winter months due to her being susceptible to picking these kind of bugs up easily. As soon as we walk into the childrens ward and sees the nurse, she knows whats coming. We take her tights off and WW3 begins.
Two nurses grab a thigh each and inject at the sime time. She shut down and went blue. It was like ... "breathe Immie, breathe" moment. She went a blue grey colour. When it was done she looked at me and I just pointed to the nurses and told her it was nowt to do with me. However, it's alot less bother than getting the virus itself, which would be serious.
No news on the date for the op yet, just that we're somewhere on the list. Hope it's soon.
She is trying tiny amounts of food when she feels like it. Banana the other day and she showed interest in a glass of red wine, but I draw the line. See ya.
Baz

Postponed Operation

2007-01-16T14:51:00.000Z

Bummer! The hospital has sent us a letter to say that Immie's op is being put back. We're disappointed as we had been preparing for it and we have no date as to when it is likely to be. Hope it isn't too long.
Baz

Gastrostomy

2007-01-10T17:52:00.000Z

Hi all,

Imogen will soon be going to Pendlebury hospital - 25th January - to have a gastrostomy fitted. This is due to her not eating and that the nasal tube is getting a bit of a problem. It seems to be coming up more often when she is sick The process of putting the tube up her nose and down her throat is horrible, Immie hates it.
She will be fitted with a peg straight into the stomach allowing us to hook her feed up to the peg. Hopefully then she will feel more comfortable and be encouraged to feed herself. if anyone has experience of a peg let us know. We are not worried about the peg, just a little about the op, but that's natural I suppose.
Immie is more mobile now and in bed at night when the feeding pump is attached, she easily gets it wrapped arond her neck. It's time to get rid of it.
Immie is well at the mo, a bit of a snuffle but nothing major. just means her oxy tube gets gunked with snot...yummy.
She is starting to say "da da" when asked who I am. Linz is miffed that asking her who she is she can't say "ma ma". Linz is "bu ba". Immie knows Daddy is best! Daddy's girl.
See ya,
Baz

Welcome to Immie's blog

2006-12-15T14:51:00.000Z

Hello you lot, welcome to Immie's blog. We're hoping to use the blog to keep people up to date with what's happening with Immie. We will also be posting up to date piccies for you to view. Immie is such a poser and knows when the camera is out. Even when she is feeling off colour, she will always be willing to show her teeth for the camera.

Please feel free to leave questions, any comments or queeries you may have. If you have any stories to share or similar outcomes we'd love to hear from you. Even if you know of babies that went through hard times in the begining, we are happy to listen.

Immie's site is still new after taking months of writing and compiling. Special thanks to our good friend Simon Rudd who put the site together. He tell's us it was a pleasure but I bet it must have taken many hours. Thanks and God bless ya!