Dear February - 9 good things you brought me (and why I love you).

My dear February,

You're a funny little month, aren't you? Always a bit of a tricker with your fickle number of days (can we ladies propose to our fellas this year or not? Yes? Yes!).

You're the toughest of the summer months, having a stronger constitution than all-party-no-discipline December, what with his boozy Christmas breakups, puerile muck-up days and wanton schoolies week. And don't talk to me about that slovenly January, with her too-busy-with-my-New-Year-hangover and you-kids-don't-go-too-far-while-Mummy-works-on-her-tan haziness.

Good Things #6/366 :: Pompom garlands.

We're having a little party for our Nell-bell in a couple of weeks - one already! - and so I've begun organising.

Good Things #5/366 :: In Which I Make Toasted Muesli.

I like muesli. Unfortunately, I`m a fussy mueslian. Luckily, I like the muesli I make for myself. Happy co-incidence, no? Good Thing, yes!

Here`s my recipe for a yummy toasted muesli which I try to make every couple of months. I vary it a little bit each time and below is the recipe I used this morning. Easy peasy japan-esy!

Good Things #3/366: Jack is learning to pedal.

Riding a bike is something most of us expect our kids to do. Often, when expectant couples are dreaming of the future with their new child, amid images of playing football, ballet, school concerts and playing in the backyard, are those of kids on their bikes, tearing around the neighborhood with their besties.

For the parents of children with Cerebral Palsy this is often a dream which is one of the many crushed by the harsh reality of spasticity, dystonia and imbalance. But it's not impossible. Like most things for people with Cerebral Palsy, a lot can be achieved with patience and perseverance (and philanthropy - thought I'd throw that in!)

Good Thing # 2/366 :: Lidia the Tattooed Lady.

I loved The Muppets as a child and still do. They aren't on free to air TV right now in Australia so my brother bought the first season on DVD for my kids for Christmas.

Today I popped it on, looking for a chance for my son to do some passive physio while I got some things done. What has happened is we are both stuck watching it, laughing all the way through! A new experience for Jack, a revival for me. Either way, it's a Good Thing.

Do-gooding in 2012.

"Back where I come from there are men who do nothing all day but good deeds. They are called phila... er, phila... er, yes, er, Good Deed Doers."

The Wizard of Oz

I am a bit of a do-gooder. It's a phrase which has some negative connotations of being a dobber and interferer, so I think it's time to redeem the reputation of do-gooding and do-gooders generally. Do-gooders unite!