Totally nutty

Dear Lucy,
How long it has been! I am ashamed of my lack of support for you in your hour of need. Home improvement upheavals, aged relative relocation AND the challenge of learning to foxtrot all in a matter of weeks and without the support of your old friend. I am so sorry. I do hope that it has all sorted itself out and that your home is tidy and spacious enough to practise your routine in. How I envy you the opportunity to learn to dance; the last time I took lessons was about 10 years ago...

Mr Chino and I had the opportunity for a weekly night out following the birth of Chino-child number 1; Grandma Chino came over every Wednesday to babysit for two days, so we sashayed on down to a local hostelry, the upstairs room of which was the venue for Salsa lessons and the scene of the destruction of my illusions. I had always imagined myself to be rather a good dancer, but I became aware, in no uncertain terms, that I can neither follow instructions nor anyone's lead! Do you remember "Steptoe and Son"? When Harold was taught to ballroom dance by his father? On a night out with a lady he took her in his arms, the music began and they both danced backwards away from each other! He had been taught the woman's steps! If only I had been so successful... Mr Chino and I argued that it was the other who was in the wrong but, eventually, I was forced to concede that it was I. And now 'Strictly' season is upon us again and I am dreaming of sequinned frocks and Anton, but inside I know it will never be me in his arms. I do so hope that you and Mr Latte are fairing better.

As usual, I am missing more television than I manage to catch, but I did see a few Bake-offs and found them to be very good, the men were so dominant this series. They were so imaginative; I can't see myself knocking up anything as exotic as they did, although I did make a very yummy chocolate cake for the Chino twins' birthday, but it was eaten before it was possible to photograph it. It will sound very silly, but I made butter cream for the first time EVER! Very tasty it was, too, and everyone ate it.

Unfortunately, we are having to check every food label, now, however, as one of the Chino twins has been diagnosed as allergic to pistachios and cashews. We have been advised to avoid nuts altogether and now carry antihistamine and an Epipen wherever we go. It's such a faff but, as there is a risk of anaphylaxis, absolutely necessary; we know he is allergic,  but there's no telling how severe a reaction he might have. Who knew there were nuts in so many things?

I do hope that you are well and hope to hear from you sooner than you heard from me.
Much love, Cathy x