Triple thanks

Dear Readers,

Hope you´re all doing fine!

Do you remember Amanda and Glenn Splashy? A few months ago, they were struggling to look after their new triplets. Luckily, Amanda’s parents came to help them.  Today, I have an update. Life is finally getting easier. Hope you enjoy it!

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The news of the arrival of the triplets brought immense joy to their grandparents, Fiona and Phil, who travelled all their way from the other side of Sylvania to help Amanda and Glenn.

For a couple of weeks,the new parents felt incredibly lucky to have such loving support during this cahotic yet beautiful time.

When the grandparents had to return home, Amanda and Glenn felt a bit anxious about managing on their own, but they were soon to discover the true spirit of Sweet Barry Valley.

The day after Fiona and Phil left, their neighbours began to show up, one by one, offering their help.

Camila and Charles Hunter Smith brought them a wicker crib they didn´t need any more.It would be very useful to place it in the living room.

Camila and Charles could relate to Amanda and Glenn. They understood what they were going through and gave them some advice that helped them when they had their triplets.

Doctor Murdoch, made regular visits to make sure the triplets were healthy and thriving. He also  helped Amanda and Glenn plan a schedule for feeding, napping and changing times to ensure that all the three babies were cared for.

When Glenn had to go back to work , Narrisa, Amanda´s best friend, visited her everyday, whether it was bringing over meals or offering babysit so she could catch a much-needed nap.

The smell of her scrumptious paella was so comforting!.

"Go upstairs and lay down for a while. Shelly and I will take care of the babies ". 

While Narrisa did the dishes, Shelly sang lullabies and rocked the crib to get the babies to sleep.

After a short nap, Amanda enjoyed having a chat with her friend over a cup of tea and a delicious cinnamon roll. A simple pleasure in life that she really cherished.

Jane Appleblossom knew how much Amanda loved the cinnamon rolls from her bakery .Several times a week she would bring her a basket of freshly baked bread and her favourite pastries.

So did the Cottontails. Three times a week, on their way to sell their fresh produce at the farmers´ market, they would leave a basket of fresh vegetables at the front door of the house. As it was very early in the morning, they didn't knock on the door so as not to wake the triplets.

Finding bread, vegetables and even fresh milk at the doorstep is a nice gesture on the part of the neighbours. The Splashys were very grateful for all the love and help they received from their neighbours and friends.

Many villagers brought gifts for the triplets but they also had gifts for Amanda. Yardley Walnut, the beautician, brought her a nice basket of pampering items like body lotion, scented candles and bath salts.

Friday was pizza day. The Macavity's brought them home a delicious seafood pizza. 

"But we haven't ordered any pizza!" Glenn said when Mistofellees, the Macavity's oldest son, handed him a pizza box. 

"I know,It´s on the house. My parents told me that you guys don't have to make dinner on Fridays, I'll bring you a free pizza,if that's OK with you".

Glenn thought that was perfect, but he was overwhelmed by the generosity of his neighbours.".

Every day someone new would knock on the door with a smile and a helping hand.

Mary Roxy Renard,after finishing her work at Mrs. Spotter's nursery, provides baby-sitting services.

"I´d like to do my bit to help with the babies. I can look after them while you take a break or run an errand." 

"We greatly appreciate your help Mrs Renard but I´m afraid we can't afford a lot of expenses so....

"Oh, don´t you worry about that!You don't have to pay me anything!. I will do it gladly."

Eleanor Bramble, the village seamstress brought them a very thoughtful handmade gift.

She made three fish-shaped slings.

"Thanks so much, Eleanor! They´re lovely! That´s so kind of you! 

A useful gift for the triplets and also for their parents, who could now have their hands free and carry their babies around with them.

Amanda and Glenn were overwhelmed with gratitude.

Star, Nemo and Shelly loved Mrs Bramble gift. They were calm and happy when they were carried.

Amanda and Glenn were once again able to enjoy walks along the river, one of their favourite spots in Sweet Berry Valley.

The truth is that the triplets enjoyed being outdoors. 

Many neighbours offered to take them for a ride in their stroller so that Amanda and Glenn could rest for a while. 

Nancy Waters was one of them. She loved to take the triplets for a ride. She wished she had a baby of her own to look after.

Once a week Mildred Mulberry made them one of her delicious pie recipes. On her last visit, her son Edward, the village toymaker, accompanied her to bring a baby gym he had made out of wood.

The triplets seem to have liked their new gift.

Glenn and Amanda will be forever grateful to Mrs. Mulberry for giving Amanda a lift to the hospital on her motorbike and sidecar when Glenn went out to get help after the flat tyre incident.

One evening as the sun was setting and the triplets were fast asleep, Amanda and Glenn sat comfortably on their couch. They had a conversation about how much they had to thank their neighbours for and how lucky they and their children were to be part of such a supportive village.

Glenn said:"We need to find a way to show our gratitude. A simple thank you doesn´t seem to be enough".

"Absolutely! What about a thank-you party?It would be a great way to bring everyone together and show them how much we appreciate their help". Amanda suggested.

"That´s a great idea,Mandy!" We can make some of our favourite dishes and have a barbacue.I bet everyone would love that". Glenn exclaimed.

"I´ll tell my parents about it. I´m sure they´ll be delighted to join us" Amanda said.

Both were excited about the idea of throwing a thank-you party and they set to work.

The day of the party arrived,the Splashys transformed their back yard into a festive wonderland. The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and cheerful conversations. Tables were set with delicious homemade treats and drinks. The smell of grilled vegetables of the barbacue wafted through the air.

Children were running around, playing games and their giggles added to the lively atmosphere.

Everyone seemed to be having a great time!

When the party was in full swing Amanda said "Our dear neighbours" she began, her voice carrying over the crowd. "We owe you more than words can express.You´ve been our strenght, our joy and our family".

Glenn nodded, his voice steady "We´re having this celebration to show our appreciation in a special way.You´ve all shown us what it means to come together and support one another and for that we´ll always be grateful".

Amanda continued, her eyes misty "So, let´s enjoy this evening together.Thank you for being such an important part of our lives".

Amanda and Glenn raised their glasses and exclaimed at the same time "To our amazing neighbours and friends.Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything. Cheers!"

The guests´s cheers were deafening. They joined in the toast and continued to enjoy the good company, the tasty food and the affection and friendship that bound them all in Sweet Berry Valley.

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I wish our real world was as ideal as that of our Sylvanians.Don´t you think so?

May we all find such love and community in our lives.💖

See you soon!

Hugs!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

 Dear Readers,

I’m sure you’ve noticed things have been a little quiet around here lately. Life has been incredibly busy in the 'real world,' which unfortunately has meant less time for Sylvanian adventures.

Since I started this blog, it has been my tradition to share a special Christmas story with you all. While I couldn't create a new story this year, I didn't want the season to pass without sending you my best wishes.

To celebrate, I’ve assembled a special collage of past Christmas stories.If you look closely,you’ll likely recognize some familiar faces and festive moments from previous years!

Sending you all my warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season and a bright New Year. I hope your Christmas was truly special.

"A surprise visit for the Splashys."

Dear Readers,

If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you probably remember the exciting arrival of the Splashys’ newborns. Amanda had a feeling she was having more than one baby and she was right! She and Glenn were thrilled when their triplets were born. But as you can imagine, taking care of three babies at once is no easy job.

Today’s story is about how Amanda and Glenn managed life at home after bringing their little ones back and the unexpected surprise that made everything a bit easier.

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Amanda and Glenn Splashy were overjoyed as they held their tiny miracles for the first time. The triplets: Star, Nemo and Shelly were born healthy and strong. Amanda and Glenn were thrilled.

The joy of becoming parents was immense, but so was the challenge. The reality of caring for three newborns quickly set in.

The first week was a whirlwind of sleepless nights, endless feeding and constant diaper changes.

Amanda and Glenn were utterly exhausted and overwhelmed, struggling to keep up with the demands of their new life.

Being absorbed in taking care of their newborns, their home was quite a sight of a mess.

Diapers, wipes, bottles and toys were scattered all around the living room.The sofa was covered with laundry that needed folding and snacks to give them an energy boost to keep going.There were also parenting books and magazines but little time to have a look at them . Coffee cups and cola drinks were also around to try to stay awake.

In the kitchen, dishes were piled up in the sink and the countertops were cluttered with baby formula and bottles.

In their bedroom,the bed and the crib were unmade.

In the bathroom,piles of laundry were waiting to be washed and baby bath supplies were everywhere.

In the middle of this mix of joyful chaos and overwhelming clutter,Amanda was rocking Shelly and Nemo.

"Oh, my goodness, I don´t know how we´re going to manage this, Glenn"  " I´m exhausted!I can´t believe how much work is this. I feel like I haven´t slept in ages. Why did I think I could handle triplets? She cried in despair.

Glenn was trying to soothe Star giving her a bottle. "I know, Mandy.It´s been none stop but you´re doing great. We just need to take it one step at a time". However,deep inside, Glenn was feeling exactly the same as his wife but he tried to put on a brave face. 

As days went by,sleep deprivation was starting to take its toll on their mood and energy levels.Caring for three babies was a round-the-clock job.

Just when  they thought they couldn´t handle any more, they heard a car parked next to their home and shortly after a knock on the door.

"Who could that be? Amanda wondered " We weren´t expecting anyone. I can´t deal with visitors right now.

"I´ll get it" Glenn stood up and went to open the door.

"Fiona, Phil! ". Glenn exclaimed when he saw his parents in law at the doorstep.

"Surprise! We couldn´t wait any longer to meet our grandchildren and help out. We know how overwhelming it can be with just one baby, let alone three!" 

Amanda´s eyes widened in surprise and relief when she saw her parents standing at the door.

"Mum, Dad,what are you doing here? I...I don´t know what to say.This is such a wonderful surprise!" She exclaimed, tears of gratitude welling up in her eyes.

"No need to say anything, sweetheart! We´re here to help. You and Glenn need some rest.Your father and I will take care of the babies.

Amanda was smiling through tears "I love my kids but I was starting to feel overwhelmed and it´s only the first week. Thanks so much for coming!"

Fiona and Phil hugged her daughter and said:"That´s what family is for. Now go take a good nap. We´ve got everything under control here".

"Thanks a lot. This meeans so much to us". Glenn also thanked his in-laws for their unexpected visit.

"Our pleasure, dear. Now, let´s get to know our beautiful grandchildren and tidy up a bit."

Amanda and Glenn brought the crib down from the bedroom to the living room so that their parents wouldn´t have to bend down to pick up the babies. Amanda thought her triplets would soon outgrow their crib.It was meant for one baby, not three.

Then, they  headed back to their room.Amanda had been in her night gown for days, without even having time to get dressed. They couldn´t believe they were finally going to be able to get some sleep without being interrupted by the synchronized cries of their triplets.

Meanwhile, Fiona and Phil turned their attention to the babies. 

Their hearts were swelling with pride and joy.

"Oh,look at them! They´re so tiny and perfect".

"It´s been a while since we´ve had little ones around. This brings back so many memories..." Phil said with a sweet smile.

"I know, Phil. Remember when Amanda was this small? She was such a handful but we managed".

Phil laughed and said "Yes, and now it´s our turn to help her out. Let´s get these little ones fed and settled".

Fiona and Phil worked together to feed, change and soothe the babies. 

Fiona, with her gentle touch, soothed the babies to sleep, while, Phil, with his warm smile, sang lullabies that filled the room with a sense of peace and love.

When they managed to put the triplets to sleep they shared the household chores. 

The house started to look more orderly as they worked together.

The babies were asleep and the house was clean and tidy.

Fiona and Phil made themselves a cup of tea and took a moment to relax.

"It´s amazing how much energy they have.But it´s also so rewarding!".

Fiona nodded. "Absolutely. And seeing Amanda and Glenn so happy makes it all worthy".

A few hours later, Amanda and Glenn emerged from their bedroom, looking much more rested. They even had a shower and changed their clothes.

"That was the best nap I´ve had in weeks". Amanda said with a big smile on her face. "How are the babies?"

Fionna smiled and whispered:"They´re all asleep. We managed just fine". "And we tidied up the house a bit too" Phil added.

"Thank you so much.We really needed that break". Glenn said

"Anytime, kids. We´re always here to help. Phil replied.

Amanda wrapped her arms around her parents and said "We couldn´t do this without you. Thank you for everything".

Her parents hugged her back and said "We´re family,love. We´re in this together".

The grandparents´s arrival was like a lifeline, and Amanda and Glenn felt a weight lifted off their shoulders. Fiona and Phil brought a sense of calm and experience that Amanda and Glenn needed, hearts full of love and also a treasure trove of thoughtful gifts.

The suitcases and parcels were still in their car.

"Here you are" Fiona said handing a parcel to her daughter.

Fiona hand-knitted blankets for each triplet.

They brought some bath toys to turn bathtime into playtime.They fondly remember that Amanda loved bath time as a baby. 

They also brought something that was going to be a game-changer.

The parcel was huge and it didn´t fit through the door so they unwrapped it in the front garden. Amanda and Glenn were curious to see what was in such a large package.

"A TRIPLET STROLLER"! They both exclaimed in unison.

Glenn and Amanda had seen that stroller in a baby catalogue but their budget couldn't afford it. 

"It´s amazing. I can´t believe you did this for us!" Amanda said, her voice chocked with emotion.

" We just wanted to make outings a bit easier for you both. Plus, we couldn´t resist when we saw how perfect it was for triplets.

"And we asked them to customise it to identify each triplet. Phil said with a laugh. This seat is for Star, this one for Nemo and this one for Shelly".

Amanda and Glenn were really touched  by and grateful for their parents´ generosity and thouhgfulness .

They hugged them tightly, expressing their heartfelt thanks.Not only for the lovely gifts but mainly for helping them so much and for showering them and their triplets with endless affection.

"You´re the best parents in the world! We can´t thank you enough". Amanda exclaimed.

"Just seeing you happy is thanks enough, sweetheart" her parents said.

Amanda and Glenn took the triplets for a stroll in their new ride.

The babies seemed happy to go outside for the first time. Glenn and Amanda were also delighted to go for a walk and get some fresh air and sunshine.

While walking through the village, they met some villagers who congratulated them and offered to help them with whatever they needed.

They were glad to meet some families who also had triplets. No one better than these families can understand the difficulties faced by first time parents of multiples.

"I understand how stressful and challenging are the first few weeks with triplets. I´ve been in your shoes before and I know it isn´t easy. Mrs Grunt said.

"When you raise triplets you need a lot of help so you can count on us" Mr Grunt added.

"Thank you so much!. It´s been a tough week but my parents came for a visit and they´ll stay with us for a few days to give us a hand" .

"That´s very kind of them. Just let us know when they´re gone.With triplets you need about ten pairs of hands". Mrs Grunt said with a laugh.

They also met Camila Hunter-Smith and her triplets.

She offered them some baby equipment she no longer used and encouraged them to join the multiples club. 

"We´re a community of parents of twins and triplets. We share tips and stories. You´ll find helpful and supportive to be able to talk to families who know what you´re going through"

Amanda and Glenn felt very lucky to have such considerate and kind neighbours.

When they returned home, the first thing they noticed was the delicious smell of the fish stew Fiona was cooking.

"Just in time.Dinner is almost ready" Fiona exclaimed.

While Amanda and Glenn set the table, Fiona and Phil fussed over their grandchildren.It seemed that the walk have done them good because they were calm and happy.

When the babies were changed and fed, the rest of the family sat down for dinner. It had been over a week since Amanda and Glenn had eaten a wholesome meal and that fish stew was the best they had tasted in a long time.

The comforting presence of family  made Amanda and Glenn feel more confident and supported.

They finally got a bit of rest and could enjoy the precious moments with their new family. The house,once filled with chaos, was now filled with love and laughter.

Fiona and Phil´s visit not only brought joy and comfort to Amanda and Glenn but also marked the beginning of a beautiful journey with their triplets.They knew that while raising triplets was going to be a challenge, they were not alone. They had a loving family ready to step in and help whenever they needed. It was a heartwarming reminder that the love of family is the greatest gift of all.