Natty gets a very special invitation...

... from the Queen Lord Mayor of London. (We've explained her as 'like the Queen'.)

The Lord Mayor of London is hosting a fancy dress party for 200 children who have made a difference. I guess Natty is unaware of the exact difference she has made to others, either by being part of inclusive advertising as a model with Down's syndrome, or by being a protagonist in the ordinary story that is our family and parenting blog so that new and prospective parents can reassess their understanding of what Trisomy 21 really means in modern times.

It's Daddy Down Side Up's birthday, so we decided we'll make a treat of the trip. We've packed presents and cake and face packs and so on.

For big sister Mia a very special visit to the Royal Cavalry Museum to see the Queens Horses as she is mad keen on horse riding. Much better than a fancy dress party for little kids anyway!

And for Natty, a very special outfit, made with love by the talented Kirsty at Funky Wild Things Dresses. A red velvet cape and a beautiful dress with a house and a grandma and a wolf on it.... Yep, Natty is going to be Little Red Riding Hood.

And we found a little basket, made a red checkered cloth and Natty promptly used it to put a finger puppet grandma to sleep.

We're all very excited. The house/dog/chicken sitters are comfortably installed and we're off!

I'm optimistic that we will spread a little more acceptance of Down's syndrome, meet other wonderful children and their parents (Seb is going too) and come back with new plans and projects.

Now all I have to worry about is whether Natty decides to kiss or hug or sing a rendition of Mamma Mia to the Lord Mayor when she is introduced to her in state. Without me by her side. 

Yep, that's right, parents aren't allowed to accompany their children for that part of the event. Oh well, Natty is Natty and it will be what it will be.....

Read what happened when Little Red Riding Hood attended the ball here A Hero with Down's syndrome.