Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Entry 1 (25/06/XXXX): Birth of our child

Guess it’s finally time I start this diary… Sorry I didn’t mean to sound rude, I’m just tired. It's been a very long six hours and I’m frankly amazed I haven’t passed out yet. But I figured now… while she’s gone with the nurse was a better time than any to start this little project. I don’t know how effective you'll be? I don’t mean to sound rude, but how does writing about all this help me feel any better? I don’t know why I’m asking this diary… Not like you can give me an answer. 

But I promised the therapist after everything that happened, that I would try to be more healthy with my emotions. But what if I fail again? What if I lose this little just like I lost (The word is smudged too much to read). Sorry about that, can’t believe the first page and I’ve already damaged you… Sorry. This shouldn’t be a sad day… It should be a happy one. 

The birth of my daughter. She came into this world screaming… It was such a different experience, compared to last time. Poor Tom, between me squeezing his hand and doctors having him run ragged, but he seemed to calm that tempest of a child… I can tell he is going to spoil this girl just as much. He is already calling her his “Princess”, but it’s nice to see him so happy again, he was so focused on the bakery that I worried he never wanted to try again. 

But where are my manners! I haven’t even told you her name! I would like to welcome Marinette Dupain-Cheng to the world. I pray to whatever force is out there, please watch over her.  Oh… I can hear them coming back, I’ll write again soon. Goodbye for now.               

Entry 2 (28/06/XXXX):  Time at the hospital 

Hi. It's been a few days. Wait, why am I feeling back about a diary? Get it together Sabine. So yeah, we are still at the hospital. I know I’m as surprised as you are, last time we were out within a day, but it’s looking like it’s going to be a few more till I can finally sleep in my own bed with Marinette. 

Now, you must be thinking, “Why is the hospital keeping you in?” Well the answer is simple, Marinette’s size. She’s on the smaller size for most babies and so the hospital just wants to run some tests to make sure there are no negative symptoms. I wish they had done this the last time… Sorry I’m not trying to be mad at the hospital, it was never their fault… but I guess these feelings have to rest somewhere and why not at the place where she took her last breath. Arrrr. Sorry I said I wasn’t going to be negative and here I am killing the mood after ignoring you for a few days. So how have you been? Wait, did I just really ask a book how it’s been? Anyway 

I'll update you on a few things that have happened at the hospital. The nurses have been so wonderful, they really have made this whole experience less stressful for us… I think Tom providing the staff room with baked goods may have helped with that. But in other news, Marinette wasn’t the only child born on the 25th in this hospital, another couple had a daughter as well. Shame this girl will never get to meet her mother… I hope her final moments were peaceful in knowing her daughter made it into this world. 

Sorry I did it again! I guess the hospital just brings out the worst in me! Maybe I won't update you on things until we are finally out, sorry but I don’t want you to be filled with so much sadness. See you then.         

Entry 3 (1/07/XXXX): The first night

Greetings from the bakery! Yes, finally after nearly a week in that hospital, last night I got to be in my own bed for a change! You never realise how much you miss your own bed until you spend a week in a hospital. Like those beds are just brick walls with pillows and a blanket. 

Even Marinette slept better last night, well better in a sense she only got me and Tom up twice. We both were a little rusty, but those past experiences taught us what to do. Besides, compared to the horror stories I’ve heard from other mothers about the first night at home, I think Marinette is an angel compared to them. 

Can’t wait to gloat (Kidding, I know all children are different) about this to the other mothers in the club… Anarka is going to be so annoyed, especially after the hell her first night was with the twins. But after a few months those twins settled down nicely… I can’t believe it is almost coming up to their 1st birthday? Time sure flies, doesn’t it, diary? Wait did I sure just expect this book to answer me back… okay maybe I’m still a little bit tired from last night. 

But who am I kidding, you're such a great listener, so I won’t be mad if you never talk back to me. Besides the updates might get a little less frequent from this point onwards, Tom and I are going to start the bakery back up, we are not going to do orders just yet, but we kinda need to have some income coming in. So we made a schedule of who was going to be with Marinette at what times. 

For now I’m mainly going to be with her as there are a lot of things only a mother can do for their child and besides Tom would be more suited for the bakery right now. But give it a couple of months and then I’ll be taking on more of my old duties and eventually full return to my role in the bakery. But sitting down to write to you takes a lot out of me… plus I would hate to leave an entry half finished because Marinette needs something, so  I can only hope you’ll be fine with the large gap, I promise not to forget about you. Wish us luck.        

Entry 4 (29/07/XXXX): Recalling the past

How’s it been? Sorry it’s been a few weeks since we last talked… I almost forgot about you, sorry. But then I was reminded of Bridgette and I needed someone to listen to my woes, and you're the only one I can trust to listen. Well to fill you in on what you’ve missed first, nothing really me and Tom aren’t the same greenhorns that we were with Bridgette. We both know what to do with the little bundle that is Marinette. 

Besides, she mostly just sleeps and eats at the moment, so it’s not that much to handle. But last night when I was checking how she was sleeping… I felt this feeling of deja-vu when I looked at her and then I realised. She looked just like her. I know what you're thinking diary, “Well Sabine, they are both your’s and Tom’s children? Of course they're going to look similar.” But it’s not just that… I blink and sometimes I see her as Bridgette, like she never left. What if this is all the universe's way of giving her back to me? Maybe there is someone out there who also saw Bridgette passing as a loss. 

But who am I kidding, this isn’t fair on Marinette. The girl is only a month old, I shouldn’t be placing my pain or expectations on her. That would make me just as bad as my own Mother. Thanks diary, if you hadn’t listened to me, then maybe I would have done something I would regret. I’ll try to give you more updates on Marinette, next time I promise to attach a few photos, so you know what she looks like. Anyway summer is in full swing, so the bakery is going to be busy for a bit, so I’ll see when I see you, bye.            

Entry 5 (16/08/XXXX): Hottest night of the year

God I have some choice words for the people who forecast the weather. Sorry to just drop that on you randomly, but it’s currently 31℃ and it’s 1am in the morning. Neither me or Tom can sleep because Marinette can’t sleep in this heat. She was crying non-stop, we tried everything from AC to Ice, but this girl is like a portable heater! She’s somehow hotter than the windows? 

Tom jokingly called her a dragon and said we should expect her to spit out flames when she’s older… I just think the heat is getting to him a bit. 

Ankara even staying with the twins, guess it must be worse being on a boat in this heat. But it’s nice to have her and the kids around, they both just turned one and already Luna is starting to walk around, Juleka seems happy to still be crawling. God makes me wonder how Marinette will fair? Will she be a crawler or a runner? I’m hoping she’s a walker, please. 

She already started opening her eyes, she has this nice shade of deep blue, just like my mother’s eyes. But thankfully she looks more like Tom in my eyes and also her hair is starting to grow… Me and Anarka can’t decide if she has blue or black hair? Nadja said it’s bluey black? Maybe she is right? But who knows? I’ll attach a picture when I find the time. But… Oh I hear some crying, guess it's my turn to deal with the kids. Wish me luck.    

Entry 6 (13/09/XXXX): Meeting her grandmama

Well that was an experience! Sorry, I just need to vent after the day it’s been. 

What I thought would be a normal day of watching Marinette, while Tom watched the bakery, turned into one of the most hectic days ever. Why you may ask? Because Tom’s mother decided to drop by… completely unannounced. 

For some background, Tom’s mother, Gina is a bit of a free spirit. She rarely stays in one place for too long and has a bad habit of showing up at random. She showed up during one of mine and Tom’s first dates, back when my English wasn’t the best. She crashed mine and Tom’s honeymoon after she completely missed our wedding and took Bridgette out on her motorbike for her third birthday and now she suddenly popped up today and "helped" me with Marinette. 

She was surprised at first to see Marinette, but then I realised she must have not heard the news about Bridgette… This is always the problem with her, she is hard to get into contact with. But even I’ll admit it was stirring to see her breakdown at the news of the death. She felt more real in that moment, but she soon returned back to her ways, as her methods are wild. I’m amazed that Tom is as normal as he is with a mother like that. But I’ll admit her heart is in the right place… even if she made mine beat faster than it should. But as quickly as she arrived, she left just as suddenly, but she did promise to come around more often and actually be a part of Marinette’s life. 

So I guess we have this to look forward to now. Oh joy.          

Entry 7 (30/10/XXXX): Never leave Tom with her

They say tomorrow is the scariest day of the year, but I don’t think today can be topped. 

So I decided to give Tom a break from the bakery. He had been working non-stop for the Halloween rush and was starting to look a little tired. So I decided to trade with him, he looked after Marinette while I would man the bakery. It took a bit more pushing, but eventually he agreed to the break and spent the day looking after Marinette. I even told him to phone if anything goes wrong. 

Which spoilers, it did. So around this time Marinette has been starting to roll around, she still is not crawling just yet, but the girl seems to like rolling around. But of course I forgot to mention this fact to Tom, so only a couple hours in did I hear a loud crash and rush up to find Marinette had rolled into a table causing a few plates to smash on the floor. By some chance, she was unhurt, but Tom almost cut himself countless times trying to pick up the pieces. 

My husband may be big and strong, but he is probably the most clumsy man alive… I really hope that Marinette doesn’t inherit this trait, or so god help us. But after telling Tom to put Marinette in the playpen and to make sure she doesn’t roll around the room, I return to the bakery, but I kept worrying the whole time I was away that something bad would happen. 

Thankfully it didn’t. But today has taught me that if I’m ever going to leave Marinette with Tom, I need to make sure nothing can go wrong with the pair. But I won’t lie, I wouldn’t have this any other way.      

Entry 8 (24/12/XXXX): Oh Bridgette, you would have loved to be a big sister.

Happy holidays and seasonal greetings from the Dupain-Cheng’s. 

Sorry I ignored you for the whole of November and most of December, this time of year is both very busy and quite a sombre time for me and Tom. We still don’t feel right celebrating without her. 

Bridgette really enjoyed Christmas, she always wanted it to be magical. I blame all those films she watched, but she always greeted all the customers with a big smile and festive cheer… even as she grew sicker and sicker on her final Christmas. I wonder how this Christmas would have gone with her here? She would have gone even grander than ever probably. She would have loved to play the big sister, even to the six month old Marinette. 

Tom and I are actually going to have a party this year! I know right! It’s just going to be us, Nadja and Ankara with the twins. Nothing too big, we all just want to spend the holidays together. I swear those two are worried about how me and Tom are coping, but I think they just miss her too. 

But this isn’t the time to be feeling down, tomorrow is Marinette’s first Christmas, and we are all going to make it a special one. I will leave you some pictures as a present later. (Attached to the page are pictures of the group all together with Marinette and the twins in the middle)     

Entry 9 (1/01/XXXX): Mascot of the bakery

Wow. I’m so mad I didn’t take any photos of what just happened today to show you. 

Even writing can’t do this justice. But I’ll try to explain, so you don’t feel left out. So me and Tom decided to open the bakery for the first day of the new year, something we hadn’t done since before having Bridgette. But we decided to revive the idea as a way of starting off the year strong for Marinette. Neither of us were prepared for the rush of people we got. 

So our usual plan of one of us working the shop while the other kept an eye on Marinette, quickly morphed into keeping an eye on Marinette while we both managed the bakery. Now you must be thinking of all the many things that could go wrong with having a six month old in a bakery… Well, so did I. But by some strange turn of events, Marinette being there made us twice as popular. We had so many compliments about our daughter and when she accidentally rolled herself out of the playpen, she only seemed to entertain the customers with her curious antics. 

We even gained a few new clients for catering jobs? One joked and said our child really is getting into the family business. But I quickly crushed that idea, Marinette does not need to follow in our footsteps, if she doesn’t want to. But I don’t think I’ll ever forget today, maybe I’ll bring Marinette down more as she gets older. But not yet… I don’t want to lose another child. Sorry I got a bit emotional, anyway happy new year. I will speak to you soon.       

Entry 10 (12/02/XXXX): Gaining a new member to the mother’s club 

In all these months I’ve just realised that I’ve never talked about the mother’s club to you. 

This is a small club consisting of me, Ankara and Nadja (I know she is not a mother, but she has been a family friend and I know one day she’ll join the club truly). The club was made before I had Bridgette and without them I don’t think I would have been strong enough to have Marinette. 

We made the club so that we could support each other with raising a child, from simple things like moral support to important stuff like babysitting. We have always been there to help each other in a pinch, from the time me and Nadja stepped in to look after the twins when Anarka was sick to the time when they both went out and found a baby crip after me and Tom forgot to get one for Marinette. 

But today we gained a new member to the little club, Alim. He stumbled into the bakery with a little bundle of joy in his arms. The poor man looked so tired, as he almost broke down and explained how he had a meeting, but also forgot a babysitter for his child and so he was panicking. I stepped in quickly and offered to look after their kid. He was surprised by my request but it seems like time was not on his side, so he quickly gave me the child and said he would be back as soon as he could. 

While Alim forgot to mention the name of his child, I soon found it on the label of the blanket to be Alix. Alix was a delight to look after, her tuffs of strangely pinkish red hair were so cute. She and Marinette played nicely in the playpen, barring one incident where Marinette stuck Alix’s foot in her mouth. 

But by the time Alim had returned, both girls were sleeping together quite nicely. Which allowed us both to have a nice chat. I won’t go into detail here, as it would be rude to Alim, but let’s just say I didn’t hesitate to invite him into the club and he accepted the offer without much doubt upon seeing Alix calmly sleeping. 

Update: Informed the other of Alim and neither had any complaints.             

Entry 11 (4/03/XXXX): I swear this baby is the devil

This child is the devil! Okay not actually the devil but let me just tell you what happened today. 

So Marinette has started to crawl, I know this is such a big milestone! Especially as it took both Luna and Juleka longer to start. Alix seemed to quickly follow soon after Marinette and the pair were like little race cars, crawling around the living room. But this is where the problem soon started to appear, Marinette is like a disaster magnet! 

Everywhere she crawled she managed to knock something off a table or almost cause things to smash. Worst of all, I think she enjoys it? I know she is a baby, but the smile on her face as she only seems to ram into things harder, only makes me believe it to be the truth. I’m just thankful Alix seemed more interested in racing than wrecking and so Marinette was more drawn to following after the agile Alix. 

Tomorrow, Marinette is spending the day with Anarka, so I’m going to go around and safeguard the house, so that we don’t get a repeat of today. My word if she’s this much trouble now… I can’t imagine what she's going to be like as a toddler, I can tell she is going to be quite boisterous in the future. Maybe I better start toddler-proofing now. 

Don’t you agree, Haha, I knew you would. Well wish me luck.       

Entry 12 (21/03/XXXX): Dealing with the Bourgeois

Sometimes I wish I wasn’t such a nice person. 

I escaped from a household that was cruel and uncaring, made a life for myself in a city which is praised for showing its love to everyone. Yet even here do I find such unkindness towards others. I realise I need to elaborate a bit here. 

So today I was in charge of the bakery while Tom was out with Marinette. Alim had invited us to an event at the Louvre and I figured Tom needed a break. So I was on my own, working at the store. Most of the day had gone smoothly with customers coming in at an infrequent rate, until after the lunch rush normally ended, that is when she showed up. 

This woman walked in like she owned the place, she had no respect, no understanding and no manners as she demanded our best pastries only to then scoff when I got the wrong pastry. Did she expect me to read her mind? Was she really that vain? But I held my nerve and went through the shop’s whole inventory until she finally stopped with the scoffing. 

The dessert in question was some Canelés, don’t know how those are the best pastries in the store? Even Tom thinks they are not worth all the time it takes to make a batch. But this woman was clearly a fan as she took them all to go. But then as I went over to the register to sort out payment, she just slammed a card on the counter and said to call this number with the cost? Then she just walked out! I had half expected this to have been a robbery but after working out the cost and calling the number on the card, did I realise that I had just encountered Mrs. A.Bourgeois, wife to the future mayor of Paris. (Or that’s what all the papers say he is going to be?) I’m glad she doesn’t have kids. 

Anyway I’m going to bed… Dealing with that woman has drained me.                

Entry 13 (10/05/XXXX): Hearing the tragedy in aboard

I’m so sorry. I misplaced you in Marinette’s room and forgot about you for a whole month! I’m so sorry. Wait, why am I apologising to a book? 

Sorry I didn’t mean that in a bad way… It’s just, a person shouldn’t get attached to an object like this. Well you are family to us, so I think we are long past that issue. So anyway let me catch you up on what’s been going on here. It’s finally spring and so we've been taking Marinette out more in her pram, we even went on a few outings with the rest of the mother’s club. 

Can’t wait to go on more as the nights get lighter. But this month hasn’t all been positive, that poor couple’s death in the Tibetan mountains. I’ve heard they were some big named fashion designer and his wife. Nobody knows why they were up on those mountains, but it still quite the tragedy. 

The city was very much grieving the loss, so many customers were wearing black and even a few English royals came to give their condolences. It's things like this that remind you how life can just suddenly end… like with (The word is too smudge to read.) Sorry, I think I need to stop… I’ll talk to you again soon… I promise.        

Entry 14 (12/05/XXXX): A quiet night

I can’t sleep. I was thinking about what I wrote a few days ago. 

Because it made me realise it’s been two years now since she died, back then I never believed I would have another child. Bridgette was mine and Tom’s whole world and to watch her slowly fade away was horrible. For the weeks after she was gone I hated quiet nights, because they reminded me of the fact she is no longer here. That silence was torture for me and I knew Tom didn’t like it any better. 

We both stopped functioning, neither of us knew how to move on, how could we live in a world where her smile is gone. I’m forever thankful for Anarka, she was the one to drag us both back to reality, even when she was dealing with her own problems of having twins. I guess it’s quite fitting that she is Marinette godmother, she is the reason we decided to try again. I can’t believe Marinette is almost one, it seems like yesterday we were in hospital with her in my arms. 

Thank you, I know I’m always saying this to you, but I really mean this one. Without you I don’t think I would be able to get out my feelings in a healthy way, I guess that therapist was right… Just don’t tell them that or otherwise they're going to get a big head. Well I’m feeling better now, so I’m going back to bed, I’ll chat again soon.       

Entry 15 (24/06/XXXX): Preparing for the big day!

Sorry I can't say much. But who would have guessed so much work goes into a child’s first birthday? I will talk more tomorrow.

Entry 16 (25/06/XXXX): Her 1st birthday

How can a birthday for a one year old be so stressful? Was it this bad when we did Bridgette’s? Maybe combining two birthdays wasn’t the smartest of moves on our parts. 

Oh yeah I forgot to mention Alix and Marinette were born on the same day! 

We all couldn’t believe the odds, then Anarka suggested we do a double birthday party as it’s easier and cheaper (In her opinion) She was right about it being cheaper, but easier far from it. Ironically the easiest element of today was Marinette and Alix, both one year olds were simply happy to play with one another in the playpen. 

Now the hardest part was having to deal with the antics of the grown ups. First we have Tom and Alim as the pair seem to go on long and very boring talks about the history of art, I always forget how much of an Art buff Tom is. 

Then Anarka and the twins are like a tornado of chaos, I spent most of the day making sure they were entertained, but in fairness they are both lovely girls, just both have their mother’s energy and inability to sit still. 

Oh and Nadja was here… She was just there… frankly I think she is just taking notes for future reference. But somehow the day went by without any major disaster? So maybe I’m just lucky? Anyway, here is a picture of the birthday girls, so you don’t feel left out. Happy birthday Marinette. Here’s to all the future ones. 

(Attached to the page are pictures of baby Marinette and Alix wearing little party hats, both looked unamused to be wearing them.)

Chapter Text

Entry 18 (12/07/XXXX): Summertime adventures

Guess it’s finally that time of year again… Summer. 

Last year was most focused on the new born so we didn’t really get out much, but with Marinette being one, we can finally get out and explore the summer. What I have learned is that there are surprisingly quite a lot of places to take a baby. 

From a baby friendly play centre to the kids hour at the pools. Me and Tom have been taking turns seeing these places with Marinette. She seems to like them… well the more active ones, she loved to crawl around, never once can she sit still. I’m kinda hoping she starts to walk any day now? But I’m not going to rush her. So in other news, we’ve already started planning the twins’ 3rd birthday and things are already getting messy. 

But then again you never heard the full story of the twins’ father… Oh boy I don’t think there are enough pages… or time for that matter. Marinette is waking up, I’m taking her to this soft play area with Alix. I’ll attach a picture later for you… I promise

(Attached to the page is a picture of Marinette and Alix with wide smiles, as the babies play around in all the foam bricks.)           

Entry 19 (15/08/XXXX): The twins birthday

Phew, glad that was over. 

Sorry it’s been a while diary, between going out with Marinette, getting ready for the twins 3rd birthday and running the bakery. I just don’t get the time to sit down and chat with you that much. 

But I’m thankful Tom and Alim said they would give me some me time, while they watch the kids with Anarka. So can you believe it? The twins are three years old. I can still remember the day they were born… They were both so tiny and now they both are starting to look like children. Luna is so sweet, that girl is going to be the responsible one for sure. Juleka on the other hand… That child beats to the sound of their own drum. 

But they do remind me so much of Anarka. But their party went off without any major disaster, well almost… The twin’s father showed up, oh yeah I forgot I was going to tell you about him. 

The twin’s father was a guy Anarka met in high school, Tom said the pair were in a very popular school band and even went professional. But then the band broke down and while Jagged stone has continued his music career, Anarka seems happy just living on the Liberty with the twins. 

She’s never talked about what happened and neither me or Tom want to know, considering the sad look in her eyes whenever the topic gets mentioned. So anyway now that you’ve been caught up to speed, imagine the same man turning up with presents for the twins. He said that he didn’t forget this year, his words were met with a sigh and a look of frustration from Anarka. She took the gifts, but was quite firm about Jagged never stepping foot on her ship. 

It took awhile but the party soon returned to the happy vibes as Anarka watched the twins blow out the candle and hug her.

(Attached to the page is a picture of the whole group, the twins in the middle with massive smiles, Juleka’s face covered in cake and Luna trying her best not to blink.)       

Entry 20 (5/09/XXXX): Meeting Alix’s older brother Jalil 

So today I’ve had the strangest encounter ever. 

To explain, we were babysitting Alix for Alim as he had a big meeting at the Louvre. He said it was only going to be a few hours, but I don’t mind, Alix is a joy to watch. She and Marinette have clearly made a bond, Marinette practically lights up the moment Alix is here. 

Watching the two crawl around the playpen is so cute… Still annoyed, neither have started to walk, but there is still time! Bridgette was almost two before she could do it? Maybe it's just a Dupain-Cheng girl thing to not walk until the age of two? But I’m getting off topic. 

So I was babysitting the girls when suddenly I heard a knock on the door. I was expecting to see Alim, but instead was a young boy around eight years old. He was well mannered, if a little shy. But it wasn’t until he said he was here to pick up Alix did it finally click who he was. Jalil. 

This was the boy Alim would talk about at all the mothers club meeting, this was the boy Alim was trying so hard to be a stable father figure for, this was the big brother that Alix seems to tease at home. 

To see him in the flesh it was quite a treat. He has this area of maturity that makes me want to praise him. The way he handled Alix was stellar, as he even managed to placate Marinette, which is rare for a newcomer to do. But in this short little meeting made me realise just how strange it is that this was my first time meeting Jalil. 

Alim always mentioned the boy was busy with schoolwork and so his head was in the books, so maybe summer is the only time he is able to appear. His visit was short, but I don’t think I’ll forget the boy anytime soon. I may even ask him to babysit for Marinette, a boy his age not going to turn down the offer of being paid to watch two babies? But that’s for another day.         

Entry 21 (20/10/XXXX): Mothers club annual meeting

Really starting to feel that autumn wind, Really got to question why we have the Mothers club meeting on the Liberty? 

But you’re just as much a member of the mothers club as Nadja, so I’ll fill you in on the gossip (Nadja is rubbing off too much on me.) So we all got together to plan out the halloween party this year, after we cancelled it last year due to Marinette being too young. 

But now with Alix around and the twins being more active, it’s time we got back into the swing. So we chatted about this for a couple of minutes, Alim even suggesting we could book a venue at the Louvre. Anarka was strangely on board with that idea? 

But then we just started chatting. Anarka said about how the twins found her old instruments and started to play them. Nadja talked about the tv job she was hoping to get and I told them all about a new recipe me and Tom were working on for the Halloween season. 

Overall not too bad a meeting, next time you should come, we always joked about needing a note taker.     

Entry 22 (31/10/XXXX): The girls first Halloween 

Booo! Did I scare you? Wait, why did I ask a dairy if it could feel fear? Sorry I'm tired, we only just got back home. 

Tom is currently putting Marinette and Alix to sleep in the cot. Why both? Well the pair are completely inseparable and we didn’t want to risk waking them both up and getting a temper tantrum, especially from Marinette. That girl can get violent when she is in a mood and Alix, that baby’s grip is superhuman, she completely latched on to Marinette. 

So we just decided to take them both home with us and Alim will pick her up in the morning. 

So let’s talk about the party. Compared to all the birthdays, this party actually went smoothly. Got to hand it to Alim. He knows how to plan a party. The event was that perfect mixture of fun for the kids, and fun for us Adults. 

He even suggests the perfect costume for the kids, angel and devil for Luna and Juleka, Mummy for Jalil and simple ghost costumes for Marinette and Alix. 

Me, Nadja and Anarka agreed that Alim will be in charge of all major parties from this point onwards. He seemed so happy with all our smiles, guess he really wanted us to enjoy tonight. Thanks Alim. Anyway, I better check on Tom… He’s too quiet.

(Attached to the page is a picture of the whole group in their Halloween costumes.)    

Entry 23 (24/11/XXXX): The girls and Fireworks

Bang! Sorry… just had to share with you the enjoyment I’ve been stuck in for the last few hours. 

So it’s late November and you know what that means, Fireworks. Last year was strangely quiet, but maybe me and Tom were just so sleep deprived that we just didn’t register them? Who knows. 

But this year, like during the summer, we've been trying to be more active and so when Anarka invited us to the fireworks show on the Liberty, we really couldn’t refuse… I tried, but it was hard to say no. 

The night itself wasn’t too bad, Anarka is clearly much better at handling more casual get togethers, and so the night felt more relaxed than the chaos of the twin’s party. 

Speaking of them both, wow they’ve both gotten so much more talkative. Juleka almost rammed Tom into the Seine! She truly is a wild child, very much like her mother. Luna was so sweet, she rushed over to greet the sleeping Marinette and was so curious about her… She has a caring heart to her. 

But Marinette and Alix were the real surprise of the night! Both me and Alim were worried that the pair would hate the loud bang of the fireworks. But these two absolutely loved it all. Never have I seen a child have such wide and curious eyes than those two at seeing the fireworks light up the night sky. 

Marinette especially loved the fiery dragon finale, she started to cry when she realised it was all over, she only stopped after she cried herself to sleep… But I can tell this night is going to become a major tradition. Next time I’ll take some pictures, just so you don’t miss out.          

Entry 24 (23/12/XXXX): Her first steps!

Oh my word! It happened! It’s actually happening! 

Sorry it’s just so sudden that I had to rush to tell you the news! Marinette took her first steps, her first proper steps! We’re only two days away from Christmas and I’ve already got the perfect present. 

Her little face as she slowly figured out how to step was too cute, she stumbled a few steps after, but that hasn’t stopped her. She just laughed it off and tried again. I was starting to think she would be two before she could properly start to walk, she and Alix were both happy to crawl around like spiders, but to see her not only standing, but seeing that first step will be burned into my memories. 

We still both can’t figure out what was the cause? She was happily playing in the playpen and then suddenly she just got herself up and took a step towards us? Maybe she wanted to show us something? I can’t really imagine what goes on in her head sometimes. But I love her all the same. 

Oh now that sounds like crying… Guess we need to start buying more plasters… I feel like she is going to need a lot.  

Entry 25 (25/12/XXXX): A chaotic Christmas

I’m starting to regret my early Christmas gift. 

Marinette is a walking tornado and then adds onto that the festive chaos of having the whole group around. I don’t know how we even managed without one meltdown from either Marinette or Alix. Marinette was a bit hyper as she raced around to greet everyone, but she slowed when she realised Alix couldn’t keep up with her yet. 

I think Marinette could tell it was annoying Alix that she couldn't walk yet. But before any meltdowns the two were taken in by the colours and sounds of the TV specials to care much about what we adults were doing. 

The twins on the other hand were both messing around with their presents, I’m surprised Alim spent so much on the presents… Something Fishy is going on. But to make this night even more chaotic, we actually got snow… a snow storm. 

So now Alim and Anarka are sharing the spare bedroom in the loft (We’re planning to have that be Marinette’s room, when she’s older.) While the twins and Alix sleep with us and Marinette, thank god we bought those air beds. 

Anyway, can’t chat for long, we’re about to send all the kids to bed… Wish us luck. 

(Attached is a photo of the whole group around a tree in the living room, both Alix and Marinette staring mindlessly into the camera.)       

Entry 26 (03/01/XXXX): Her first word!

Alix… Her first word was Alix! Sorry I’m just a bit in shock, let me explain. So this morning me and Tom were finishing off the prep for the new rush and getting ready for Alim to drop Alix off, as he was busy with a ton of meeting (Joy to be him) So I mention Alix would be here soon, then from behind me I heard the familiar clumsy rush of Marinette coming towards us (We had set up a small playpen so we could watch her while working) and suddenly said in the cute voice ever. “Alix!” We both looked shocked as she said it again and again. She then came up to me and said Alix while pointing towards the door. A few moments later Alim arrived with Alix and Marinette on cue ran over shouting Alix. Alim seemed to match our expression, while Alix seemed to giggle in response. If Alim didn’t have all those meetings I think he would have joined us in trying to process this fact. But you know what, I'm glad Alix was her first word because it showed me just how much Marinette and Alix are connected. Tom even joked that Alix's first word is going to be “Marinette.” For Alim sake let's hope it’s not. Anyway, Tom and I are going to try and get her to say “Mama” and “Papa.” It's going to be very bad if the only word she says for the next couple of months is just “Alix” So wish us luck.

Edit: So after I finished writing, I entered the living room to hear the word “Marinette” come out of Alix’s mouth. Once again me and Tom looked with utter surprise, while Marinette just ran around in joy… Until she bashed into the sofa and started to cry.        

Entry 27 (14/02/XXXX): Alim and Anarka?

OMG! I knew it! Sorry diary but I just had to tell you what I’ve just seen. 

So today is valentines day, one of our busy days of the year. Normally for events like this I would give Marinette to Anarka for the day to watch her. 

But she had already made plans! This is the same woman who never made plans before in the time I’ve known her, even Tom was surprised. 

Eventually we managed to drop her off with Nadja, who strangely had Alix and the twins as well, but she was happy to have Marinette as well, she said it would be training for when she has a kid. 

But I didn’t think anything more of all this till they both entered the bakery… together. Like properly holding hands, acting like a sweet couple! I had to quickly sculpt my face to hide my surprise. When they got to the register, they both said today was just a spur of the moment thing and means nothing at all. 

I call synthetic yeast, but in all fairness I’m happy for them, I hope they do this more often. I can’t imagine things going any further, what if they decide to have a kid! 

Nope that will never happen, never in a million years. Anyway I’m tired… Valentines can be quite draining and I want to spend some quality time with the man I love. See you around.      

Entry 28 (11/03/XXXX): Now they’re both walking!

It’s happened… It’s finally happened. 

Alix can walk as well! So Alim texted me this morning saying he needs help, and the good soul I am said yes. Within ten minutes Alim was at my door, but what came bursting in was none other than Alix. The little speed demon came charging in with the call of “Marinette.” 

Luckily Marinette is a deep sleeper or otherwise she would have rushed down the stairs to greet Alix and most likely greet her in a pile on the floor. She really has trouble climbing stairs at the moment, she got a few plasters to prove it. 

But after Alim dropped off the crimson dynamo with us, he left to make sure Jalil was ready for school. Alix was clearly more stable on her feet compared to Marinette, who just wildly charged around the house without much care in the world for what she barged into. Eventually Marinette woke up and we had to tame the wild storms as the pair ran around the house. 

Eventually I took them both to the nearby park and let them run around until they both tired themselves out. I managed to take a cute picture of the pair after they both were tired out. But I guess things are going to get a lot more chaotic around here now that both of them are on two legs. Guess we will be buying more plasters.

(Attached to the page is a picture of Marinette and Alix sleeping on the sofa, both girls look messy and dirty, but both smiling as they hug each other.)  

Entry 29 (01/04/XXXX): April fools

I hate this day.

Entry 30 (12/05/XXXX): How’s it been Bridgette?

So Diary today I’m not going to speak to you. 

Today I’m going to talk with Bridgette. Hi Bridgette… Been a while, I guess life has been so busy that I just haven’t had a moment to sit down and think about you. I know that sounds mean, but I think you would have wanted that. 

You were never one to sit around and mope, even as you got sicker. How could you be so grown up? Yet never get the chance to be a grown up. I hate this world sometimes because it took you away from us too soon. I sometimes dream what things would be like if you were here with Marinette. 

You rush around after her, keeping her entertained and getting to be the big sister I knew you could be. But then I wake up and remember that you can’t and I wanted to cry, but it’s weird whenever that happens, Marinette comes rushing towards me with a curious grin and something she’s found in her exploration. 

It’s like she knew I’m feeling sad? But how? She’s barely even two and yet she cares so much. 

The first time she ever did this was also the first time she called me “Mommy.” I cried upon hearing that, but those tears were the happy kind for a change. I think when she’s old enough I’ll take her to meet you, she deserves to meet her big sister. 

But would you look at the time, I’ve got to pick her up from Anarka’s place. Goodbye Bridgette, I love you.

Thank you Diary, Sorry we won’t be talking much soon, I’ve got to start planning for their 2nd birthday! Time sure does fly.       

Entry 31 (25/06/XXXX): Their second birthday!

How could this year be even more chaotic? 

We should have learned our lesson on how to do a double party and yet somehow things just kept going wrong! 

So firstly guess who showed up out of the blue? Yep Gina. She had been MIA when we tried getting her here for Christmas, but now she suddenly shows up on the day and tries to take Marinette and Alix on a bike ride. 

Luckily she had some common sense not to take the two girls with no awareness of road safety out on the busy roads. But that was only the beginning of the chaos. Then Anarka decided to spice things up which caused the local officer to arrive and then Tom decided now was the time to get super clumsy and tripped while carrying the cake. 

Said cake landed on the two birthday girls, who both weirdly didn’t cry at the experience of having a cake land on you and just sat there eating said cake while laughing. God I don’t think I can love these girls anymore than I do today. 

But they’re both two now, soon enough they’ll be talking more, going to school, making friends, discovering who they're going to be. I can’t begin to imagine what these girls are going to grow up to become, but seeing the pair of them happy eating cake off each other on the floor while the rest of the room panics, I know they're going to be just fine.

(Attached to the page is a picture of Marinette and Alix on the floor eating cake off each other. In the background you can see Luna and Juleka laughing while Alim and Jalil panic.)