Daniels Daily

Tis the season

2010-12-14T22:11:00.000+11:00

Christmas Carols in the local park on a perfect summer afternoon!

This is on my Christmas wish list!

2010-11-29T20:35:00.000+11:00

Christmas

2010-11-24T22:24:00.000+11:00

I love decorating for Christmas! Especially when the finished product is pleasing and I cannot believe I found a tree today, that's much nicer than my $17 Coles one from last year, on the side of the road!
Maybe somebody does love me?

Halloween 2010

2010-11-10T21:10:00.000+11:00

Inner Peace

2010-10-26T20:54:00.002+11:00

If you can start the day without caffeine,

If you can always be cheerful, ignoring aches and pains,

If you can resist boring people with your troubles,

If you can eat similar food every day and be grateful for it,

If you can understand when your loved ones are too busy to give you any time,

If you can take criticism without resentment,

If you can conquer tension without medical help,

If you can relax without liquor,

If you can sleep without the aid of drugs,

Then You Are Probably...

The Family Dog!

Hunter Valley

2010-10-24T21:00:00.000+11:00

Us sisters took my Mum for her 60th Birthday for a drive to the famous Hunter Valley a couple hours away from Sydney. We picnic ed and wandered all day. No kids, no worries, just the girls...twas splendid!

Some of my face painting from last week

2010-10-04T16:52:00.000+11:00

One year!

2010-09-27T12:46:00.000+10:00

Early this month I celebrated one year of driving!
Some may not realize how huge this is for me. Driving was one of those things that nightmares were made of for me and I lived most of my adult life in Africa where I was discouraged by potholed roads, absence of rules and common sense. All that to say my life has changed!! I realized I needed to bite the bullet if I ever wanted to expand my horizons, move out of Mum and Dad's and possibly get a place not walking distance to the kids school. I was just so limited and frustrated. There's nothing like the simple freedom to hop in the car and go get your groceries! Not to have walk for hours whether rain, hail or shine with 3 small kids just to get the bare necessities or even to get them to school.

I've been pulled over once for a breath test....the day after passing to my "P's" I couldn't help but laugh when I told the officer.
Otherwise nothing eventful and here's to many more years of no dramas!
Next I want a RAV 4 Cruiser!

The most beautiful city in the world

2010-08-29T21:05:00.000+10:00

We had the best time being tourists in our own city. We wandered the city streets and botanical gardens and finished it off with obento's in Hyde Park.

10 years!

2010-08-29T20:58:00.000+10:00

I know this is really late in coming ...especially if you already saw these on facebook.
I really do mean to keep up with this blog. I have so many thots going through this head of mine ;P studying has been taking my time. I'm hoping to finish this certificate by the end of the year so I can concentrate on my business, the kids more and doing lunch!

Big kitty!

2010-08-11T21:30:00.000+10:00

All of us...for now!

2010-07-25T21:08:00.001+10:00

What a dream, to have most of us around. Chris was visiting from Adelaide so we all got together on a rainy winters day. 15 kids just between us, can you believe it?! Can't wait till April and Mike arrive!

Skin deep

2010-07-21T22:02:00.001+10:00

A few people have mentioned my skin recently and I have to say it does have a lot to do with genetics (My mum has always had clear, soft skin) but from before the first time I wore make up at about 16 I was pretty religious about the morning and evening splash with water.
I never had much pocket money so when I could I would just buy the Dove soap bar and used that for years (and still have a bar around all the time.) Now that I've been an Avon lady and had plenty of samples to go through, I've been able to see what's really out there but somehow I want to go back to nature on this one. I will be researching and will put any findings here.
Recently when I ran out of a face soap I grab the good ol' Johnson and Johnson brand at the supermarket and I love it! It does have exfoliating beads in it so you don't want to do that more than once a week.

My basic routine is washing with a face soap at night and clearing any makeup away with cotton. Then I apply a thick night cream. (I'm currently using a Nivea brand.) In the morning I splash again to remove any left over oilyness and apply a good day cream with SPF 15.
Even though I don't think my skin is doing that great all through my 20's I knew I wanted to do all I could to take care of my skin. Funny as I write this I'm sporting the biggest pimple I've had in my life! Anyway, I'm just mortified when girls my age tell me they never do anything...I think they'll regret it.

Lunch box ideas

2010-07-20T17:05:00.000+10:00

The kids will love these rolls. Add cherry tomatoes or grapes and their lunch box will burst with colour.

Ingredients

Honey Mustard Ham Rolls

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tsps wholegrain mustard
1 tsp honey
6 flour tortillas
100g packet shaved leg ham

Sweet Chilli Chicken Rolls

8 slices wholemeal bread
2 tblsps mayonnaise
1 tblsp sweet chilli sauce
100g packet shaved
chicken breast
20g baby spinach leaves, trimmed

Method

1. Combine mayonnaise, wholegrain mustard and honey in a small bowl. Mix well.
2. Heat tortillas according to packet instructions. Spread half the mayonnaise mixture over tortillas.
3. Divide ham over top. Spread with the remaining mayonnaise mixture. Roll up tortillas tightly to enclose filling. Cut in half.
Sweet chilli chicken rolls
1. Trim and discard crusts from bread. Using a rolling pin, roll out slices of bread until thin.
2. Combine mayonnaise and sauce in a small bowl. Spread evenly over bread. Top with chicken and spinach. Roll up tightly to enclose.

Notes

Rolls can be made a day in advance. Wrap individually in plastic wrap. Store in the fridge.

More holidays

2010-07-15T20:13:00.000+10:00

Portraits

2010-07-14T20:14:00.001+10:00

Playing around with my new Lumix FZ35 I used the outdoor setting with a forced flash to fill in the harsh sunlight.

Cook off

2010-07-14T20:09:00.000+10:00

Had dinner at Ruthie's! She, Mari and Libby together put on a spread of Thai food....one word!....Yum! I slept over so I could have a couple glasses of wine :)

Alan also slept over with his friend, Chad. These guys are so easy to please. We threw them a few spring rolls and they made paper planes and played board games all night. What good boys they are. I wonder how much longer this can last?

Wooly in Wollongong

2010-07-06T21:20:00.000+10:00

Alan's birthday

2010-07-04T09:39:00.000+10:00

Shoes!

2010-07-02T16:43:00.000+10:00

Slight obsession with shoes....Hayden's, not mine!

My boys are stars!

2010-07-01T20:48:00.000+10:00

I hate how schools are trying to fit everyone into a box! i have bright, beautiful sons! Alan is a genius. He has a grasp of the universe,science and inventions that is beyond me yet his teacher can only drone on about how behind he is in his spelling (....have you seen my husbands??)
Jay is an organized, conscientious boy yet he struggles with large social scenes and avoids school plays etc. And why is this held against him?
As a parent we walk a fine line with pressing for achievement yet loving our children either way and encouraging our children either way! I don't want to have a dim outlook on their future but it's very important to me to let nature take it's course in their lives with minimal pressure.
Jeez, some days I want to go back to homeschooling. I don't want to see my kids sad and dejected at 3 o'clock at the end of the school day. I don't believe that the school years are just to be survived. Learning is a way of life and discovery one of life's greatest pleasures. I don't want to see their fires burning out over spelling words and disinterest in Aboriginal art. This cannot go on!

My latest scrapbooking pages

2010-06-19T15:24:00.001+10:00

It's time for Africa

2010-06-12T11:24:00.000+10:00

Man, this would be an awesome time to be there again! Oh well, best seat in the house right in front of the telly.
The launch concert was so much fun, not to mention Sharkira who IS OUTSTANDING! What a gifted performer! So much raw talent without any hang ups.
And that theme song....Wow! Brilliant!

We're spending the long weekend (Queens Birthday) getting our soccer fill. We have in house Chilean, Argentine and Brazilian fans in the Hernandez family. We're going for Germany and Australia!! It's gonna be fun!

Athletics Carnival at school

2010-06-10T17:14:00.000+10:00

Freezing, windy day but we got out there and had tons of fun! In Jay's words "When I came, I thought it was Heaven." He loves his sports! Alan, not so much but he still had a go at everything. Hayden even had a run during a cute preschool race held at the end. He took off on the track but then realized I wasn't right behind him so came back to get me!

Look at that crazy bunch. Jay and his class mates! Good to see him settling in though. ;)

Finally made it to Taronga Zoo!

2010-05-24T19:48:00.000+10:00

Taronga Zoo Pt2

2010-05-24T19:45:00.000+10:00

Weetbix kid

2010-05-20T16:21:00.001+10:00

Back to the land of the living

2010-05-19T11:58:00.000+10:00

I had all these awesome thoughts to post when we got internet back up and running but the moment I open a post I go blank which should explain my lack thereof. Without internet though. I seem to be getting an awful lot done. Hmm, maybe just because it coincided with beginning my studies. I passed the 2 first assessments by-the-way!! They weren't hard but I did have to write a lot more than I'm use to and ....think! I also wasn't quite sure what they were expecting from me turns out I was spot on just using my common sense.

We finally made it to Taronga Zoo on like the last day of warmth. Kids enjoyed it so much. I loved it too! It's so well laid out for a relaxing family day. Here are a few pix:
OK I haven't yet got those pix from Shane's computer so here are a few from Dad's Birthday taken with Alan's camera.

I love this one of Hayden with his Nana and Pop.

Had a lovely family dinner while Anne and Clare were visiting from Adelaide

2010-04-25T11:11:00.000+10:00

Shane's studio

2010-04-16T21:41:00.000+10:00

life goes on

2010-04-12T11:43:00.001+10:00

Well, I think it's about time I post. I'm not sure what's holding me back, sometimes I wish I could just spill it and let the chips fall where they may...sigh.
The kids are in the midst of school holidays and so far it's going well. We've been out to do a number of holiday activities including a hike in a nearby reserve as well as just relaxing at home. Jay is turning 6 today!

Which makes it 3 years since we've been back from Africa. What a distant memory and so much has happened since then. We had another baby (Hayden), moved house 4 times (ugh) Shane started his career in photography and me...hmmm, gained and lost 30kgs (when pregnant) and concentrating on giving the kids a good childhood, reminding myself that they only have one, and I am possibly a step closer to finding something I want to study to eventually get a job that finds a good work/kids/life balance. Firstly it was a carer, then because I really enjoy interior design I thought I'd dabble in that and now I've found a number of jobs near home in Business administration that only require part time in school hours. So I'm enrolling in a year long Business Administration course to prepare me for a good chance a good paying job like that, that enables me to still be with my kids before and after school yet still contribute to our growing income needs.We'll see how we go with that.

Some more gems

2010-03-10T21:13:00.000+11:00

Window of opportunity

2010-03-10T21:09:00.000+11:00

Scrapbooking

2010-03-08T20:15:00.000+11:00

The latest Pixifoto

2010-03-08T20:11:00.000+11:00

Aren't they handsome?!

Cuddles

2010-03-07T13:48:00.000+11:00

Sucess and fails

2010-03-07T13:47:00.000+11:00

Oh my Lord, I start up this blog again...then abandon it. I am inspired to carry on by other blogs out there that I constantly check (check my side bar for updates). Well, lots has happened since starting school this year.
I enrolled for a Interior decorating course in a college only to get an email a few weeks later saying the course had been canceled. While searching for another course I'm trying to get to the Library during Haydn's nap time to research and read books. That's not really panning out either and I've only actually been able to do it a handful of times. Too many things can go wrong.
I joined a gym and go 3 times a week. Here's hoping I can age gracefully and be fit doing it!
I turned 31 and went dancing with my sisters, had cocktails at home, and a large cake with my whole extended family and thought waaay to much about my life and where it's all going.

I'm looking for part time work as a personal carer. I wanted to get a few hours in about 3-4 days a week during school hours so it won't effect the kids and I'll find a preschool for Haydn. Not sure yet how it will pan out but just wanted to get some experience and beef up our income a little.

The boys are still settling into new school. Alan is finding the work a bit hard to keep up. He could really use your prayers. He's the kind of kids that you really can't put in a box. He's brilliant in his own way but I'm just praying he can settle and not feel so much pressure.
Ok, more later. I have heaps of pix to upload and will get to that shortly.

Back to school 2010!

2010-01-30T18:08:00.000+11:00

The boys are doing so well at their new school! I have to be honest, I was (and still slightly am) nervous about these moves. It was hasty and the last thing I want to do is make a wrong decision about something that affects their life as much as school would. But my first impressions were good! The principle is fantastic and approachable as is the deputy and their class teachers. The school is located on a large grassy block with heaps of trees. The different classes cultivate a vegie patch as part of the horticulture curriculum. They also have a few chooks and bunnies running around and a worm farm! Jay loves the meandering gardens too.

It has been rated high academically also which brings peace to ones mind. Here are my handsome boys. Alan is wearing the sports uniform and Jay is wearing the regular one.

My first pavlova

2010-01-26T20:51:00.000+11:00

I tried my hand at making a pavlova, and yeah, the meringue fell flat. I think know what I did wrong though so I shall try again! I love the lightness off this dessert and even if it seems to not work out you can smother it with cream and fruit and it's still a winner. Oh, and Happy Australia Day!

All about Haydn

2010-01-24T21:58:00.001+11:00

My little sweetie is growing up so fast (yet, at times not fast enough) It feels like it's been a life time since he was a tiny thing in my arms and overnight that he's attempting every word I say.
He's completely and utterly obsessed with the Wiggles so I couldn't resist a complete sheet set for him with the four colourful guys on it. Sometimes from the time he opens his eyes he's asking for "Jeff" (one of the guys from the Wiggles) It's funny because I never really liked them and thought it was a bit of a joke that Serena knew all the word to the songs about spaghetti, fruit salad and the like, but once your kids get into something and you see it make them so happy you kinda get into it too. Ha!
He'll point a stick at you and very clearly say "Hands up!" and he's a real kisses and cuddle guy...actually all my boys were and are! He just started saying "I'm a luf you" when he's cuddling, it's the sweetest thing!

I'm so blessed! This year I'm going to try to be a better Mom to my 3 beautiful boys he's given me. I'm going to spend less time watching shows and more time reading to them. Less time worrying about the future and more time in the NOW! I'm NOT going to "sweat the small stuff" They deserve the best of me. I only hope to God I don't mess it up!

Learning and growing

2010-01-24T14:58:00.000+11:00

Beach holiday

2010-01-24T10:16:00.000+11:00

Just returned from a 5 day stint at a south coast beach. Our annual family get together has grown with families returning from overseas. Having Jessica and Justin and their families here made it memorable! We had the luxury of the choice between the beach on one side and a lake on the other. On a few of the days the beach was too rough to swim at so we went over to the calm lake. It was ideal for fishing, swimming and Kayaking and for Haydn to paddle around.

Christmas morning

2010-01-16T17:20:00.000+11:00

Well, I'm catching up and posting a few pix from Christmas and new years. It's been a crazy bit of hectic fun these last few months. Christmas was quite enjoyable even though we had only moved 2 weeks before the day. Most the toys I put on lay-by in the middle of the year so that help with the financial stress Christmas can sometimes bring. It actually didn't feel so Christmasy then my Mum and Dad arrived and brought with them stockings for each child, we cranked up the Christmas music and my big brother, Justin brought a case of champagne....all that to say it was a wonderful one and there's nothing like having so much family around to make it!

Visit to the farm

2010-01-16T11:58:00.001+11:00

Jess and I took the kids to visit a 200 year old farm where we were able to see how they lived then, collect eggs from the chicken coop, and feed the cows. It was hot but Haydn walked nearly all the way through the 45 min. tour.

Goofy kids

2010-01-16T11:47:00.000+11:00

Haydn loves his cousin Samira! Here they are occupying themselves on New Years Eve.

I'm back

2010-01-12T10:23:00.000+11:00

So, I want to get back into blogging. This time I'm not going to pressure myself. Just when the mood strikes me and I'm definitely not going to try to keep up with Libby! She's cool and sexy and always has something profound to say. My life is not that interesting but who cares, this is for me and to brag about my boys.

Firstly I need to go to Shane's computer and dig for all the best pix from these last few months to post. He upgraded his camera (again) but his shots are superb and I know one day he will make millions off his talent (here's hoping!)

Quick run down of our Christmas and New year. We moved after 6 short months in our own little cottage in Kings Langley. (People have described it as a cottage) It had a spacious, tree filled yard but in all honesty the house just wasn't big enough for our growing needs. Unexpectedly the opportunity arose to get a place with my long lost big sister Jessica who had returned after 10 years abroad with her South American Husband, Pablo (yes, the talented photographer one) and 4 charming children.

We really only looked at the one place, loved it, applied for it and to make a long story short, got it! If you know the rental market in Australia you will know that it is a miracle! Not only are we 11 people, 7 of whom children but neither of our families had long rental histories and massive money making jobs, both very important in the current financial climate.

So it's a 5 bedroom, plus study, plus rumpus room, formal lounge and massive dining and family room! Large in ground salt water pool and sprawling yard up the back with plenty of space for forts and messing around for the kids.
We moved in 2 weeks before Christmas (not recommended) but managed to have a memorable Christmas and New years and the cleaning and packing is now a distant memory!

The Lord has truly blessed us! The boys are changing schools to the one nearby. They're happy about it. I was nervous about moving them because I could have driven them 20 min to their old school but with traffic etc we just couldn't have know how hectic it would be and I knew that the drive to school everyday would turn into a pain. Anyway, Jess and I met the principle and deputy who then gave a us a guided tour. They were so welcoming and friendly and the school has a number of programs we are interested in. Since then we have only heard good things about the school.

The last few days have been buying and labeling all their new uniforms and backpack etc. We still have 2 more weeks of holidays. The last of which will be spent down on the south coast for our annual family camping trip. Should be fun!

All good things must come to an end....

2009-08-27T16:11:00.002+10:00

..it's not you, it's me! This blog was most useful when I was overseas to keep in touch with my parents and family and friends. And my life was probably more interesting to hear about in Africa. Now with Facebook I hardly feel the need. I was never much of a good writer anyway and life is getting busier and busier. Some people relax for writing, I do not so that's the end of that. See you on Facebook!

Winter school holidays--Berry

2009-07-27T13:01:00.006+10:00

As you can see we took a drive down the coast to visit our good friends Steve and Terri. They live in the middle of nowhere, serious "woop-woop", "nowhere nagga". We drove along the coastal road and down a long gravel road to get to their place which was absolutly stunning, breathtaking silence. The boys hiked and picked oranges, Haydn chased the ducks and the evening was spent around the fire place.

Alan turned 9!

2009-07-27T12:42:00.000+10:00

Yummy!

2009-07-17T14:11:00.003+10:00

The winner from the reality show homeMADE, Jason is Yummy! I loved the show which featured my passion for interior design.

Officially back online!

2009-07-17T13:35:00.006+10:00

With Uncle Marcus and Alan with his teacher, Mrs Collins

Marcus, Chris and I. During Marcus visit in May.

Yay! I'm back! There have been moments that I thot and still do think of letting this blog go now that FB is meeting many needs but anyway, here I am and will try to catch you all up.

If you're not in Sydney you won't know that we are freezing! The only way to keep warm is doing house work and my daily walk to school and back. We have had glorious sunshine despite the cold but I hear we'll pay for the lack of rain when the warmer months comes...nobody wants to re live the tragedy of the bush fires in Victoria last summer.
We're currently in school holidays and Shane has had a week off work so we drove down the coast to stay with Steve and Teri for the night in Berry. Had some laughs and bush walks. The boys were in paradise. We really must one day "go bush" and get some chickens and goats. There's just something wonderful about fresh air and nature.
I have some great pix but must get the right program installed to downsize them to upload.

Weed pie

2009-06-16T09:52:00.002+10:00

Since watching a gardening show Alan declared he wanted to make "weed pie" like the host of the show had. He'd gathered up actual weeds and made up what looked like a quiche. I only told Alan not to declare it so loudly or people might start having questions.....he didn't understand.....and I didn't explain. :D

Housewarming!

2009-06-12T12:01:00.004+10:00

Yay! So we moved! Got most of it done in one day thanks to Shane's hard work and Thank you to my Dad, Mike and Marty who all pitched in a did a few loads. Much appreciated! So we are pretty settled now and have just about gotten everything we need. I still want to get a few shots of inside the house but here are a few of the yard. I really love this yard! Even though it's freezing right now we're getting some great sunlight streaming through and making good use of the bbq. Man, Shane can do a mean woodfire chop.
The cubby house is just a bonus and the kids are really enjoying it. They actually painted it since this shot was taken. Shane rebuilt that little front porch and laid the woodchips. We have 13 tall trees in this yard! It's gonna be beautifully cool come summer. We also have quite a nice pergola that we hope to get a good large outdoor setting for , lots more potted and hanging plants. Anyway, I'm chuffed! Hey, what do ya think of my new haircut? Top pic...it's quite short and longer in the front. All the blowdrying of winter makes it easier to handle.

Haydn is 1 1/2

2009-06-12T11:48:00.004+10:00

...and fully weaned. He's transitioned from his cot...which he never liked much anyway to his toddler bed and loves getting bundled in the blankies now that it's cold. When he needs something he follows me around the house saying "Mummy, Mummy" perfectly but when I answer he replies with gibberish. His favorite thing right now is his bookshelf full of books and Jay's old scooter. He's beginning to repeat everything i say and sings "baa baa black sheep" so cutely.

2009-05-20T14:47:00.003+10:00

Moving!

2009-05-19T19:46:00.003+10:00

Well, we got the first house we applied for! That is amazing for Sydney and just proves that the Lord loves us and cares for us. I'd already taken the "but if not" stance but this is just brilliant! Shane has a normal work week but I've been in the throws of cleaning, clearing and packing! The new place hasn't as generous cupboard space so I've been getting rid of plenty of stuff too. It feels great! Honestly I've got tons to blog about but have a headache and just want to veg for a minute for an early night.

Before I forget....

2009-05-11T12:38:00.003+10:00

Alan has been coming out with some pretty funny, insightful and ridiculous statements. Sorry to those who have heard them a thousand times.

To Jay: Do you know what disease is sweeping the world? Jay: Uh...what?? Alan: SIN.
I asked him where he heard that and he said at school during Scripture which they take one day week.

Also late one night I check on them in their room to find him sleep on the floor. Me: Why are you down there? I just put fresh sheets on your bed. Alan: I want to be prepared because at Scripture they said that Jesus is going to come like a thief in the night.

Hmmm, I'm gonna have to get onto that and balance whatever they're "feeding" him.

Last night he was getting teary eyed because he just realized how fast people are destroying the planet and thinks we should get rid of the car to do more than just recycle.

Last week I was asking how school was and how one particular friend that I knew he hung with a lot was. His reply: Well, he's not the friend I thought he was. Me: Oh? Alan: He doesn't want to invent something as much as I do.

Best job in the world!

2009-05-11T12:18:00.003+10:00

I only hope I can "live it" more rather than trying to get "through it"!

Happy Mothers Day all you beautiful ladies!

Samira had a birthday...

2009-05-07T21:37:00.005+10:00

...so we all went to the farm. We caught a working dog show, had pony rides, watched sheep shearing, tractor rides and lots of baby animals! More pictures tomorrow!

Jay turned 5!

2009-05-07T21:10:00.002+10:00

I inudate you with more holiday fun

2009-05-07T21:05:00.003+10:00

We made our own pizza

Brothers in the bath

Visit to the Aquarium

2009-05-07T20:41:00.004+10:00

Hiking at Galston Gorge

2009-05-02T21:48:00.004+10:00

Fresh air, stunning silence and breathtaking views!

Second week of schoolies

2009-04-23T21:21:00.006+10:00

Superheros saving the planet in Blacktown. Jay loved it and especially wanted to meet the Hulk afterwards. Alan was too cool for all that....oh no, "it begins" is all that's going through my mind. So we have survived school holidays and we're coming to the end. I've actually quite enjoyed lazy mornings in bed, wandering the neighbourhood and just spending more quality time with my boys. Shane has had this week off as well so I'm getting some good driving in and we're having good family time too. We miss him when he works a lot. Yesterday Marty and co came over with their PS so between that and our Wii 6 kids and 3 big boys (Nat, Shane and Marty) got in some quality gaming hours. Just as well it was a rainy day and perfect for sitting around. They had fun!

I made myself scarce and hooked up with Lynn and the Buckley girls and their 5 babies over a buffet lunch! Yup, 5 baby boys! Well, Karen has one older one and one baby. When it rains, it pours! It's wonderful, they are all such great women and friends and wonderful mummy's!

We are looking for our own place so send up a prayer for us to find a suitable house nearby. In these times the rental market is tight so we're under no illusions that it will take a miracle but God is in control and knows what's best!

I love spagetti!

2009-04-23T21:07:00.004+10:00

Check out my new molars! And I'm on day 2 of being weaned (It wasn't my idea!)

Welcome Jackson!

2009-04-18T17:03:00.003+10:00

Don't ya just love the name?! Congrats Ginny and Andy on the birth! 10 days early and weighing in at just 3.1kgs. He's very tiny and you can really see it right beside Haydn, a bruiser at about 12 kgs (4kgs at birth!)

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T19:21:00.007+10:00

Happy Easter! How is yours going? I was awoken on Good Friday morning being beaten with a toilet brush! Thankfully it was the new (ish) one. Haydn, what a love...he was desperately sick the last few days. I'm not sure it was his molars coming in because Alan had to stay home the last few days of school too? That's his fake smile he does every time a camera is pointed in his direction.
Jay had a Easter hat parade on his last day. Below are a few pix. I made the hat though he "directed" me.

So school holidays have officially kicked off and we succumbed and bought a Wii. I'm opposed to children spending too much time in front of TV, computers and other such boxes but I think this is more active with the controls you actually "do" bowling and tennis plus we're doing our bit for the economic downturn and "stilmulating the economy" with the lovely little back-to-school bonus we got for them. Those living in australia know what I'm talking about.

Jay's parade and another class with their hats. Lots of ideas for next year!

Twilight Zone

2009-04-01T21:17:00.002+11:00

I'd waited this long to bother watching it. Sci-fi fantasy never held me and high school movies leave me cold but I was in need of something to watch so gave Twilight a whirl.... and I am well and truly taken by Edward. I'm feeling embarrassed and quite juvenile and slightly (ever so) obsessive. I've since acquired the audio books and these last days have been in the "twilight" zone...it doesn't help that I've been home alone with the boy and it's torrential raining outside. Put it this way lotsa deep cleaning has been going on (the upside). Actually, I hardly realized I was doing it. Audio books are great! I'm not much of a novel reader and would simply feel too guilty sitting around for that long to get through it. Anyway, ahhhh, check out these pix of Robert Pattinson.

Catch up

2009-03-21T20:40:00.004+11:00

Well, here I am. This week I've felt a bit like I'm chasing my tail. I sign up as an Avon rep a few weeks ago and recently took on a territory. It isn't much money to speak of but I'm happy for the training and was assured I didn't have to do an order every month. It seems like it will be pretty casual, I have my moments when I feel like I've bitten off more than I can chew but we'll see how it goes. Last night my team leader, the lovely Christina, came over and hosted an Avon party. A few girls showed but we ended up having a great time!

Autumn has given us some beautiful days, just sparkling. The kind that make you feel that all is well with the world.
Me and poochie have been having good quality time together while the big boys are in school, I try not to get carried away with daily jobs and endless cleaning projects that could get done. He loves his books and sitting at his little table to colour. I was referred to a sorta playgroup at our little neighbourhood centre. It's more of a time-out for moms and actually called "Time out". Moms can drop their babies and kids for just 5 bux with qualified Childcare workers in a huge hall with toys and stuff while mums go to an adjacent room for up to 2 1/2 hours for a coffee and some arts and crafts or just catch up on some reading and emails....it's terrific! Heidi and I are going together. Not only is it a nice break for me and good for Haydn to play in a group setting but I NEVER get to pull out my scarpbooking stuff. Yay!

I went to school the other day early to catch Alan receiving his excellence award. 1 more to earn for a Principles distinction! He was beaming.

I've been getting some good driving in recently and feel so much more comfortable behind the wheel. Thanks to Lynn who took me for a good couple hours the other day to do her pick ups and shopping. 100 more hours to go!

Anyway, I'm looking forward to Justin and Linda coming in May! You guys are gonna love it and will be sure to get a well deserved break and lotsa love and support! It will be terrific having more cousins around too!

Facebook is taking my fleeting free moments

2009-03-16T22:03:00.000+11:00

...but i promise I will be back!

What is the difference between men and women?

2009-03-06T19:53:00.000+11:00

A woman wants one man to satisfy her every need. A man wants every woman to satisfy his one need.

Goodbye Summer, sniff

2009-03-01T09:27:00.003+11:00

Today is the first day of Autumn but only officially. We still have a few months of good weather left in us...I hope?! I haven't been feeling myself these last few days. Again I'm run down, it's so not like me. I would usually be the one that never gets the flu when everyone is dropping around me and now I'm getting it in summer. It makes me want to reassess my diet and lifestyle to get the most out of this body of mine.
Anyway, Serena and the 2 littlies are with us for the weekend. She's been staying with Anaik while Zeth is down in Adelaide getting a house set up etc. Haydn and Ray are so cute together. Haydn is usually chasing Ray who is giggling and running away. Ray is 4 months older but smaller and more petite, it's so cute to see them playing together and I wish they weren't moving so far away!
Shane was promoted to assistant manager on Thursday! Last week he was pulling long hours but it won't always be like that. By June he will be the Branch Manager of the Studio too! I'm so proud of him! It was certainly just a matter of time for someone to recognise his photography and leadership ability.
And he got me a budgie last week. It is just a baby but has been handreared and we plan to keep it that way. Below is Dixie on Jay's shoulder. We love it.

2009-02-25T13:55:00.002+11:00

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.

Margret mead, Anthropologist

You know you're getting old when....

2009-02-22T22:44:00.002+11:00

...you go to a club and for "Retro night" they play the Spice girls.
On another note "HAPPY BIRTHDAY LIBBY!" A few nice photo's below.

Cake time!

2009-02-20T19:17:00.001+11:00

I am loved!

2009-02-18T20:56:00.002+11:00

This week has been starting to get back to somewhat normal. The kids are doing great in school. I expected to receive Jay a little tired and worse for wear but he practically skips home after school and carries on energetically till he collapes in bed at 7:30. And what's up with this weather?? I'm putting my new fluffy bathrobe to good use but hoping summer graces us with it's presence again.
Shane has been working hard. In case you don't know he got a terrific job for a local photography studio. He's mainly doing photography for schools and clubs including student I.D cards. It's not the most creative but it's all excellent training and a foot in the door to the photography world. The office is local but they travel all over, in fact he's in Canberra tonight for a job tomorrow at some school. I'd post a picture in his cute shirt and tie but he forbade me. ;)
Well, I finally got around to posting the pictures from my 30th birthday party!
What a night! Thanks to all who attended and made it a night to be remembered!

2009-02-18T20:55:00.001+11:00

Updates

2009-02-14T20:08:00.006+11:00

I have to say though that the fires that have been happening in Victoria are on my mind and close to my heart which is part of the reason for my silence. It's shocking and saddening to be living in such a time of hardship and Australia worst natural disaster in it's history!
We are rather far removed physically from the situation but are experiencing sadness as a country at this time. The boys had "silly sock day" at school where they could wear their craziest socks and donated a "gold coin" which is just 1 or 2 dollars. Our school alone raised $3000 for the relief effort! Alan had a great pair of stripey socks he wore but Jay just wanted to give a donation...already concerned about looks.

And I cannot believe the rain and cold that has set in and am only thanking God that the beach part of our holiday was gloriously hot. We've managed to keep ourselves and the girls busy anyway. I've gotten back to a routine more or less of getting the kids off to school etc. We've had a few rockin' parties. My birthday (which I have yet to do a whole post on) then last night Heidi and Dan hosted a Valentines/Dan's birthday party. We all had to come dressed as famous couples. We had the Phantom of the Opera and Christine (bit creepy), Lois and Clark (Joanne and Sharif), Shane and I were Neo and Trinity (he had to work his leather trench coat in there somewhere..I was all ready to go as a Bond girl, sic.) Serena and Zeth were Hef and a playboy bunny and I can't remember the others....sorry. tons more photo's. Do u really want another slide show?

Beach Holiday /Family reunion 2009

2009-02-11T18:11:00.003+11:00

Rivercat to Manly

2009-02-10T22:01:00.002+11:00

I'm still catching my breath since getting home from holidays. April and Jessica have been here for a couple weeks now and you'll be happy to know Pabs and Mike that we have kept them busy almost from the day they arrived they have been attending parties, camping, shopping, sightseeing, lunching etc, etc...I have so many photo's I almost don't know where to start!?
Above are a few from our trip to Manly and tomorrow more of camping and my fabulous birthday party!

First day of Kindy

2009-02-02T03:53:00.002+11:00

Check out the munchkin with his over sized backpack. First morning and he skipped off to his new teacher almost forgetting to say goodbye. When I picked him up I was half expecting a bedraggled, tired boy but he greeted me with "I loved it!"

Alan rides out in front these days, there is just one crazy road I don't want him crossing by himself. Anyway, I'm a proud mama!

2009-01-29T19:51:00.001+11:00

Yum!

2009-01-29T19:09:00.003+11:00

Mum has this great muffin book so I tried my hand at these babies "Apple muffins" and they turned out great. I wanted to put something yummy in Jay's lunch box to surprise him on his first day of Kindy tomorrow. They're quite simple and healthy, I even replaced the regular self-raising flour for wholemeal self-raising flour and chucked some sultanas in.

Try it!
225g self-raising flour
150g plain flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
3 tblsp sugar
155g butter
3 tblsp honey
2 eggs
170ml milk
3 apples peeled and chopped into small chunks

Preheat oven to 200 degrees C
Basically sift dry ingredients together
melt butter and honey than cool. Combine wet ingredients
Stir till just combined. Spoon into greased muffin tin. Makes six big ones!

Loves of my life!

2009-01-28T14:01:00.002+11:00

...it doesn't get better than this!

To Maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity

2009-01-27T15:27:00.001+11:00

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.
2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice!
3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something, ask If They Want Fries with that.

4. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks . Once Everyone has Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions, Switch to Espresso.
5. In the Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write ' For Marijuana.
6. Skip down the hall Rather Than Walk and see how many looks you get.
7. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face.
8. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is 'To Go'.
9. Sing Along At The Opera.
10. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend Their Party Because You have a headache.
11. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream 'I Won! I Won!'
12. When Leaving the Zoo, Start Running towards the Parking lot, Yelling 'Run For Your Lives! They're Loose!'
13. Tell Your Children Over Dinner, 'Due To The Economy, We Are Going To Have To Let One Of You Go.'

And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity

14. PICK UP A BOX OF CONDOMS AT THE PHARMACY, GO TO THE COUNTER AND ASK WERE THE FITTING ROOM IS.

2009-01-24T17:26:00.002+11:00

"One women should never judge another, they haven't the glands for it!"

Ha! Just finished watching "Quo Vadis" on telly. Old classic. Peter Ustinov did the part of Nero impeccably.

The latest from me!

2009-01-21T20:00:00.002+11:00

Wow, what a day! I've been following the news headlines of what' s been going on over there in Washington. I like him! That is the new American President. He's cute and smart, can dance and I think really appeals to the international community. Maybe because he's not a typical black from the South, he can reach more people. Now we'll just have to wait and see whether he's able to fulfill his election promises. I don't know why I care so much, I'm barely American. I guess we are all affected ......and I was just so freakin' sick of hearing Bush's drawl!
One American comedian over here during the election last year questioned, "Obama? Obama? Ain't that they guy we're lookin' for?" Ha!

Well, Jay has been sick these last few days (poor baby?) so the last of our school holidays is almost gone. We've had a relaxing, looong holiday and I'm looking forward to school starting, just quietly ;)
The sisters are flying in at the end of the months as well as heaps of family from Adelaide and Melbourne. It's gonna be terrific to see everyone and slightly hectic accommodating everyone but we shall make it work!
At the same time Alan will be returning to school and Jay will be starting Kindy so yeah, it's gonna be interesting.

We bought a new car! Well a used car but new for us. I wasn't able to get my head around a manual and didn't have the patience so we upgraded to an automatic and I've since gotten in a lot of driving! It's a sexy shiraz red!

Hmmm, what else is new? It has been stinking hot these last few weeks. We've been utilizing Lynn's pool....thanks so much, Lynn! but otherwise our aircon is working overtime. We just got a refreshing rainfall that will help us sleep tonight!

Goof balls

2009-01-14T19:23:00.003+11:00

One day they will look back on these and cringe! Ha! What fun they bring to my life!

Last weekend

2009-01-11T22:18:00.002+11:00

FYI: On Sundays Citirail has a new "Sunday Funday" deal for families! The day tripper is $2.50 per adult and child over 5 years (free under 5) for ALL day, ALL trains and ferries and buses! We were getting ready to pay the daytripper tickets at about $40 when we discovered it and ended up paying just $7.50 for our whole family! Granted the ferry was FULL and we had to wait in a little cue but they seemed to have anticipated that and we didn't have to wait too long.

Holiday crafts

2009-01-09T10:18:00.002+11:00

The boys made these spiders that sit on your head at Bunnings the other day who btw are doing activities every Tuesday and Thursdays during schoolies. This is Jay's scared face...hah, cute!

Movies

2009-01-07T19:04:00.002+11:00

I just watch "The curious case of Benjamin Button" and loved it! It was a beautiful, moving love story ....with a twist. Of course quite unrealistic the "growing young" thing but somehow it worked and they hit the nail on the head as far as love stories go. The aging make up was believable for both of them! Cate Blanchete was terrific not to mention THE Brad!

New Years!

2009-01-07T16:34:00.001+11:00

I totally forgot to put these pix up from New years Eve.

We set up camp in Marty and Ruth's yard, had a barbie and the kids played games. When I finally went to bed at 2(after popping over to Libby and Andy's for a quick "Happy New Year!")the young neighbor guys just arrived home from where ever they were partying and carried on in their back yard till I got up with the baby at 5:30am.

Shane had also failed to remember the pump for the inflatable matress we slept on so it was a rough 3 1/2 hours. We aren't as young as we used to be ;)

2009-01-03T21:52:00.004+11:00

Iona is visiting from Taiwan and we were invited to the Haven again for a barbie and some New Years praise time. She was sad to be missing you, April and Jessica by just a few days.

Don't mind me!

Lights

2008-12-31T10:25:00.003+11:00

After Dinner we went for a walk to check out Christmas lights on our streets. Quite a few houses in our area really went for it!

2008-12-31T10:06:00.004+11:00

Christmas love with Jay-Jay

Mike and I having a go at tennis (on a string) Christmas Day

Me and my Boo and The group shot

Shane carved up the ham and made some chickens and a to-die-for Caesar salad with bacon and all.

3 days of festivities

2008-12-30T13:30:00.005+11:00

Just catching my breath now after the Christmas festivities! I had a wonderful Christmas! Three days of it! I got to see everyone that matters most to me. On Christmas Eve Victoria and Phil hosted a party, (Thanx guys you always throw a good one!) Brilliant food and good, fun company!
Christmas day started traditionally with the kids pacing around the tree and presents...had a fairly chilled out day then did some prep and ate at about 4. Anaik and Mike of course, joined us. After the spread and a few toasts we retired to the front yard for a bit of laying around and fun and games.

Boxing day we were off again to catch up with the Buckley's and eat more good food (!) The 2 boys swam with Anastasia for about 3 hours.

Now it's over and we are in full holiday mode. Swimming and playing and the boys are off to the movies this afternoon to watch "Bedtime stories".

Speaking of movies, Shane and I watched "Body of lies" with Leonardo DiCaprio the other night. It was terrific!

Christmas bbq

2008-12-30T13:12:00.004+11:00

Beauty and the Beast (Ha! He's gonna hate me!)

We spent a evening at the Haven and hung out and had a barbie with a bunch of people we know and love. The kids love the sprawling property and had a great time too.

Quality park time

2008-12-30T12:54:00.003+11:00

Christmas Fete -- the petting zoo

2008-12-29T21:19:00.005+11:00

Merry Christmas one and all!

2008-12-24T15:14:00.001+11:00

From us!