A good day

I'm weary, so happy to be sitting down. I went shopping today with my Mum and Dad. We did much of our Christmas shopping. It was an easy shop, as this year's Christmas is very small. Seeing as we bought a gorgeous pedigree Burmese kitten, we have sacrificed a lot of our Christmas savings. I'm okay with that, as the joy and love we'll get from Rusty, will be so much more than a heap of toys which for the most part aren't played with enough. Although with screen time being delayed, I'm so happy to see the Legos being played with again. Today I bought Mickey some books, and Billy-Joe a watch, I think I'll add a Lego set for Sammy and Mickey and that's it. I bought my Dad a book and my parents in laws a novel each too. I bought Peter a nice shirt for golf and a cool pair of shorts, black and white check, just perfect for golf.

Mum and Dad took me to Sizzler for lunch, and it was very nice. I tend to have the same things though, the Taco beef on corn chips with the guacamole and jalapenos. And the dessert too of course. The apple pie, custard, and the trifle were delicious. We were gone all day. I came home long enough to say hello to the kitties and decide what I'm cooking for dinner and then I had to head out and pick up the tiddlywinks from school.

Once home, I've done my jobs. The dinner is very simple as dear Bunny is having a colonoscopy on Friday and therefore can't eat anything with fibre in it. So sausages and mashed potatoes (in the thermo) for the kids and the mash with a pork chop for Bunny. I'll have fruit I think. I'm not hungry and need nothing with any substance after a lunch out.

Now I'm sitting down, my feet are weary, but I'm content.........

Another lovely weekend, too short though.

My gorgeous new kitten Rusty having a kip.

It's been a fun weekend. With a new kitten in the house, there's been lots to do and watch and enjoy. We kept Rusty confined to Billy-Joe's room, but today we've let the two cats come together. The growling and hissing has stopped, now they are playfighting, although I do split them up because it gets a bit rough at times. But on the whole, I'm very very happy with how well they're getting along. They are going to be best buddies.

Snuggling with Sammy.

Today I cooked some fudge in my Thermomix. Absolutely delicious and so simple, it barely qualifies as cooking.

I had plans of doing digital layouts today as I want to complete last year's Christmas album. I worked all day. I did washing, I dusted the house, Billy-Joe organized the pussycats' areas, I tidied in the littlie's rooms and cleaned the toilet. I took Sammy and Billy-Joe to Crazy Clarks and was rapt to get a leather Office Chair for Billy-Joe's room. It was $80, down to $49 and I had a 20% off voucher, so the chair was only $40. Bargain!!

I finally got to sit down, checked Facebook, and put the photos on the computer, which I edited for this blog. I became so snoozy I had a lie down, it was just bliss. The best part was that Rusty came and laid one me and went to sleep too.

Fast becoming friends.

I'm excited

A few people I know are going to Melbourne to see the Tutankahmen Exhibition. It set me thinking. Sammy has had a thing about Egypt for a few years now. Seeing how passionate he is about something so fascinated, has always pleased me. The best I've ever been able to do, is to buy him books on the subject. He reads about this topic 90% of the time. The other 10% he reads about Roman or Greek Civilizations.

As many of you know, I grew up in Geelong, and loved it there. I left because there was nothing left for me when my second marriage dissolved. I was 27, twice married, and dispirited. Like I've said before I'd never go back to live there, but I love it, and always will. It's my home town. Where I went to school.

Anyway, once again I digress...... I'm going to take Sammy to the Exhibition with me. I'm going to spend time with my girlfriend and my relatives in Geelong. I can't wait. I'm taking one of my darling boys to something which will be akin to paradise for him. Can't wait to see his face on the 29th December when he opens his card with this message.

I started that post quite a few days ago, as usual life has gotten in the way of me whiling away my time writing.....

Today is Saturday, it's now evening. I've had an awesome day. The weeks have been so incredibly busy. I left home this morning and spent the time shopping with Suzy, wishing I had loads of money. The sales were awesome, the clothes selection even better. And thank the Lord I wasn't let loose in the crockery department, as all the Christmas dining ware was out and just looked stunning. Suzy and I went to a Thermomix demo today, it was the Christmas one. Once again the food was fabulous and I bought two cookbooks. The Meat one and the Festive Season one. I made the Garlic and Herb butter pull apart to eat with dinner tonight and it was my first success with making a dough in the Thermomix. It made a huge loaf, and everyone loved it. I'm looking forward to making some Christmas fare from this book.

We picked up Rusty yesterday. He's just gorgeous. I've got no photos to post as yet, I'm hoping to get some tomorrow. So far he and Izzy aren't getting along too badly, so I think they will actually become friends.......

I promise more photos soon.

Update

Julia is third from the left, my eldest niece's graduation.

I have so many things to write about, I so wish I wrote just after things happened, rather than waiting a week.......I'll dot point my entries, to make it easier for me and for you the reader.
* Life has been extremely busy of late. But it's all good. I am looking forward to a couple of quieter weeks, although with Christmas looming, this may not be the case. We're all looking forward to the Christmas break so very much. The kids finish school next week. I'm looking forward to a quieter holiday break too as I won't be working on setting up the site like I was this time 12 months ago. We've made some decisions regarding the store, and making the store smaller will be much easier to manage. I'm excited about changing it. I've also got my name down to do a short course next year in Dreamweaver. I'd like to build another site for Daisy's as my job lot for the course I'll be doing. Using a CMS is great, but very limiting as I've been advised by a good friend of mine. I want the flexibility which I don't have using Joomla. Mind you it's been great, but sometimes you don't know what you need until you start with something, then your goals become clearer.

* I had an arthrogram and an MRI last week. It was a huge day, I was at the hospital from 10.30 in the morning and didn't return home until 3.30pm. I was exhausted. I had an ultrasound as well, and then a couple of hours to kill while I waited for the next step. Thankfully Barbi came and we had coffee together in the cafe across the road. It was a lovely way to spend a few hours. I had taken my book and my iPad, but chatting with her was much better of course. We've not been able to catch up for our weekly coffees, so this was much needed for both of us.
* I came home from the hospital, weary and a bit sore and off feeling. The arthrogram needed about 5 needles before the fluid for the contrast was injected. I got home, and had to shower and get dressed up as I was taking photos of my niece's graduation, of her and her friends. I was also going to the pre formal evening. By the time I sat down at 8.30pm, I was well and truly weary. I had enjoyed doing the portrait shoot, but was very pleased that the day was over.
It was also our wedding anniversary, but we celebrated it on Saturday.
* The portrait shoot went well, but the time was too short. Actually the shoot didn't go as well as I would have liked, but with my editing I was actually able to achieve the look I'd set out for. Initially we'd decided, well Julia, decided to have a beach shoot, but with time limitations and the high probability of a windy afternoon, we changed the venue. I set Julia on a mission to find a grungy wall covered with graffiti. I told her of my idea to have something a bit different, and she liked the idea. Unfortunately these photos were the ones that turned out a bit overexposed, but I was able to create the look I wanted without too much post processing. My focus was out though, but that's probably more noticed by me, (and people who know what they're looking at) than Julia and her friends. That night I didn't sleep well, I fell asleep quickly, but then awoke and couldn't go back to sleep as I was worried about the pictures. I got up at 2am and edited a few, saw that I could fix them and went back to bed. Needless to say I was quite weary the next day, but relieved. I had a sleep during the day, as Ricky was coming for dinner that night and I didn't want to be tired for that.



* I enjoyed a bottle of champagne with Barbi on Friday night. It was a great reward after a big week. It was a good night of chatting and just being together. Barbi's daughter graduated that week too with Julia, and was heading off to Japan on the Sunday. A huge step for a young woman, who only a few years ago, still wanted her Mum to walk her into the school grounds every morning. In the last few months, even, she's matured and grown up so much. What an experience for her to be in Japan for 8 weeks. There she'll experience Japanese life and culture first hand, and is also lucky to be going to a school while she's there.
* Saturday I decided to finish editing Julia's photos. I'd done most of them, but was stuck on the few I wanted to make 'special'. Billy-Joe had organized to go and spend time at a friend's house so I had to drop him off there. I asked for Suzy's help and we spent a lovely afternoon together chatting, and running out of time as usual. But the main thing was she'd refreshed my memory on a few processes, so that I could finish the photos. Julia left for schoolies on Sunday morning, so I've still got a few photos to finish.
* Saturday night was lots of fun. Peter and I finally got around to celebrating our wedding anniversary.I was spoilt as he bought me a gorgeous gold ring with a peridot and amethyst in it. He also bought me some silver ear rings. They were from my brother who owns MiBling.
* Sunday we decided to go down the coast and have a look at a few things for Billy-Joe's room. We ordered his bed and will go back in the New Year to get some cupboard organizers and a desk. It was great just spending time together. We'd considered buying a new PC for the kids as theirs had pooped itself!! We didn't buy one as a gaming computer of course isn't a cheap entity. Now I'm even thinking that I might update my iMac and let the kids have my iMac. We'll wait though, and I think when enough time has elapsed the kids will be so used to using my iMac they won't need a PC anymore. That's my theory anyway.....I've also spoken to them about the fact that they don't play enough and I've changed 'ScreenTime', they now can't go onto a screen of any form until 5pm. Needless to say they're not real thrilled with that idea, but guess what??? They're playing more, so I won't change it any time soon. Billy-Joe was the one most disappointed actually, as he says he doesn't play with toys, but he's on the computer for many more hours as he stays up longer, so I've enforced it with him too. There has to be a balance.
* We get Rusty on Friday. I can't wait. I'll get him in the morning, so I can have him to myself for the WHOLE DAY as I won't get a look in once the kids come home from school.
* The kids had Crazy Hair Day as a fundraiser for Diabetes.

• Sammy with Rusty and his sister Holly

Rusty

Crazy Hair Day

Focus is focussing

I can't believe there are only 40 days until Christmas Eve. The time is just racing by. November has been busy so far, and intends to stay so. Last week I had an evening about Billy-Joe's year 10 work experience program. He is interested in working with animals, so I'll go and see Kim Evans about the possibility. While in my heart I don't believe Billy-Joe has what it takes to do Veterinary Science, as far as academics go, but we'd like him to experience working with animals. I'm thinking this will either make him realize, working with animals isn't for him, or, that he loves it so much, he'll pull his finger out and really apply himself to his school work, and aim high for an OP 1 which he needs for Vet Science. While I don't think he has what it takes to achieve this, it's not because I don't think he's bright enough, it's because he's so much like me........he gets by with doing the minimum and doing well. He's never extended himself to strive to do well. He does such a small amount of homework and still does well. Far out, I know someone else like that. Once I was in High School, I realized that I could still do well without trying too hard. The downside to this, was, that even when I wanted to work harder on subjects I finally found difficult, I honestly didn't know how. I'd never had to work hard, and doing physics and Chemistry was too much for me. I was good at school, and learned easily, but I'd never been overtly taught how to study. I think this overt teaching of such an important skill, is still sadly lacking in our schools today. Once rote learning, and merely reading information isn't enough, strategies need to be employed and this isn't taught. I didn't become a good 'studier' until I did my university degree as a mature aged student, when I taught myself how to study. Anyway, once again I digress......

Billy-Joe is now aware that Year 10 will bring with it new challenges and that he has to amp up the workload if he wants to do well. I've also explained to him, that getting into a degree as a mature aged student is also an avenue. I'd not been interested in Sixth Form (Year 12), and was more than happy to work when I left school at the end of Fifth Form (Year 11). I still got my degree, and I didn't even need my HSC. It gets to a point where life experience and work experience counts for a lot. I think it's a huge ask, expecting kids to know what they want to do when they 'grow up'. Heck, I'm still growing up and exploring options.

The weekend was just lovely. No obligations and no plans. Just perfect after a busy week. As usual I went scrapping on Friday night, and had a lovely night. I did sweet FA though.....need to pull my finger out and make some Christmas cards. Thankfully I never have to make many, as I don't post many, as I only make cards for those friends, I don't see.

I sewed in all my spare time this weekend. I went to Brians Fabrics the other day and had a ball fossicking through all he had to offer. I'll attach photos, my bag isn't perfect, but not a bad first attempt. I've decided that woven interfacing will make the difference. It's a pain, because it's so expensive. I'm trying to source it cheaper, $30/metre seems rather prohibitive for something you don't even see. Actually my fabrics were only $7.50/metre, so I'm not paying $30 per/metre for interfacing!!!! I can't wait to go back and buy some more fabrics. I'd bought enough fabric for about three bags, but I'd mis read the back of the pattern, and hadn't bought enough fabric. Shucks, now I need to go back and get some more.

On Wednesday, my niece Julia graduates! I can still feel the weight of her as I held her as a newborn. She's asked me to take photos of her and her friends at the beach beforehand.That will be fun. I've got some ideas. Ricky is picking me up, as I am not supposed to drive, as I'm having an MRI earlier that day. My Mum and Dad, and I are invited to the pre formal drinks, so I'll go to that after I've taken some photos. I can't wait to see her. She'll just look beautiful. I'm looking forward to see my baby brother too. He's coming for dinner on Thursday night, so that will be fun too.

My handbag I made on the weekend

The dinner I cooked last night. Pork loin chops with a sweet and sour cherry star anise sauce, served on bok choy.

Foci!!

All year I have struggled with something. While my health has definitely improved, my mood is great and my energy levels aren't too bad, I've had real issues with trying to focus on any one thing. I find myself floundering from one point of interest to another, not really sure where I want to expend my energies.

I still feel guilty about not scrapbooking. It doesn't worry me when my friends try to get me back to it, I understand how they must feel like in a small way I've abandoned them and not just the craft. My main reasons for scrapbooking apart from the pleasure of playing with papers and embellishments, I wanted to document my life with photos and journalling. I wanted something that my kids can look back on when they're all grown up. I want them to know how loved they are, and I didn't want to forget things myself.

My personal income has dropped dramatically. Not teaching means I'm kept in basic pocket money with Peter having to pick up lots of expenses that I used to meet, like kids' clothes and hair cuts. I'm currently cutting the kids' hair and being extra grateful for hand me downs. I have a low credit card debt which I maintain, but no personal loans as such at the moment which is great. I've been paying cash for things lately which is the way it has to be when my weekly income is so low. I have no money at all left in the bank on a fortnightly basis, and the little I earn, is my pocket money, which means I often buy fruit/veges, fuel, or give the kids money and of course my Thai meal on a Friday night. It's my 'purse money', it's also what I use when I buy new markers or some other card making item. It suits me well enough, but I'm very discerning, and there's certainly no money left over for scrapping paraphernalia.

I'm pleased, therefore that I maintain this blog. I can document happenings on here as I enjoy writing and I find I write down much more than when I was scrapping anyway. I will go down the road of digital scrapbooking, but have had no time for it lately, although I need to finish last years Christmas Album, which I will do digitally (with no guilt). I have lots of digital elements which will be perfect for it.

The year is quickly drawing to an end and I want to write down what my focal points of interest will be, hence the title of my post today. I am still working on the website for Barbi and we are considering taking another direction with this. The newer version of Joomla will be released soon and is not going to be a simple upgrade. We think it's time to move onto something more dynamic and something that will grow with us. I have signed up for a trial of Business Catalyst and have also downloaded a trial version of Dreamweaver. As both are Adobe products, there's a compatibility there for the two to work in together.

I'm feeling better that clarity has finally come to me. I've been in a mixed up state of mind for a while, not knowing where to head. I'm still not 100% sure how I'll proceed as I need to buy Dreamweaver, and a course would be great too. TAFE has a course which runs for 18 hours and costs over $300. I could get the program for about $130 as a student's price. Both of these costs I could claim back on our tax which would be good. I will do more research on this before I make a final commitment. It all seems a bit overwhelming at the moment, but I think it will be useful for me. There are also online classes available, which I can investigate. I'm disciplined enough to do this, so that's an option too.

Before the end of 2010 I'm going to
* Teach a Copic A&B class on a Saturday
* Teach a photography class on a Saturday
* Make my Christmas Cards
* Colour my new stamps
* Decide on our Christmas menu
* Do all the Christmas shopping
* Complete Suzy's Christmas Album Class (my darling is paying for this for me <3)
* Complete photos for 2009 album, I always finish this before making the new one.
* Research Business Catalyst and Dreamweaver classes
* Complete trial for Business Catalyst
* Look into handbag making. A gift idea I'm looking into, I can sew and have been neglecting this craft for a long time.

Many of these things will carry over into 2011, but I want to make a start now, and some of course will need to be done by the end of the year. I'm feeling positive and excited about the possibilities.

While scrapbooking isn't taking centre stage anymore, my love of photography is no different, my involvement and love of Daisy's is as strong as ever, so I know I'm not neglecting the industry or my interests.

Just as a totally unrelated aside......I've just caught a glimpse of my desktop on the iMac, and I am so excited to be getting another cat. Rusty is just gorgeous and I can't believe I love him so much already. Karen saw me holding him in a photo, and she asked me was I holding a cat or a baby.........well he's a baby kitty, and pretty special, and it's lovely to have those emotions awakened.

Another aside, am sipping on a Stefani Estate Pinot Gris.

An Exceptional Weekend

It's Sunday afternoon and I'm feeling very relaxed and content. It's been a great few days in our family, and on the heels of a lovely week too.

Peter and I dropped the kids off in Caloundra around 8am on Friday morning. The weather was foul, teeming rain, and not nice to be driving in. I don't know what it is about us going away, and rain lol.... Seems to happen with regular monotony. Thankfully by the time we got to Brisbane, the rain had gone away, actually it hadn't rained in Brisbane at all.

Of course we got lost. Well not lost as such, but dear Bunny stuffed up and we took a wrong turn. 'Oh no Barbi, Peter says he's fine once we get onto the bridge!!'. Thank God we had directions up until that point, but next year I'll make sure we have directions right to the hotel door!!! Of course he gets so peeved and cranky lol..... I don't even get cranky at him, he does it all to himself - hilarious. Gosh I wish I knew my way around the city, so it's not such a huge drama every single time we go there. I'm sure we'd go there more often if we felt more confident.

We checked into our hotel, and breathed a sigh of relief as we headed to the convention centre. I can't believe I was so naive though to think we would be amongst the first 100 so we could get a pack!!! There were 100s of people waiting, possibly thousands, the line was very long and wide...... Apparently there were some people at the doors already at 7am!!! Unbelievable. I was also astounded that they were all Mums. Mostly just groups of girlfriends. I wondered to myself how they would go picking up their children after school. It's not something I would do that's for sure. The atmosphere was fantastic and the wine exhibitors were happy to chat about their wine, and we're rapt we decided to go on the Friday. We definitely made the right decision there. Saturdays is for the yobboes and those intending to get drunk. Needless to say the wine stall holders are tired and have had enough by Saturday afternoon, and the tasters like us who are serious about finding new wine tastes feel a little overwhelmed by the ruckus.

We met some lovely people. The lady from Stefani's winery was just the sweetest person, even saying that if we're ever in the area we should pop in and visit. We tasted some really nice Pino Gris, which has never been something I've ever liked before. I even drank a mango sparkling wine, which I was reluctant to try as my taste buds have grown way past those kinds of lolly wines....but I was pleasantly surprised. It was delicious, fruity, fresh and not sickly sweet at all
At the Oxford Landing Restaurant, I had an entree of Tofu and buckwheat, a very interesting lunch, and very different from what I'd normally eat. Dessert was a walnut tart with a salty caramel sauce.

We had so much fun together. It's really special being able to walk around, hand in hand without a care in the world. We visited the Grinders stall three times, to drink their coffee. We had two short blacks during the afternoon to keep us going.

Six o'clock on the dot, we were kicked out. They're very strict about when it finishes. We walked back to our hotel with our bounty, of around 8 bottles of wine. We'd actually forgotten to go back to buy a Mango sparkling, nor did we go back and buy these really cool wine glasses. They're $10 more to buy from the website and when you include freight, so that was a shame to forget them. They'll be ideal for going where only plastic is allowed. I can't stand drinking wine out of a plastic cup, but these have been designed by a person who knows about wine. They're stemless and completely shatterproof.

Peter was hungry and eager to go out to dinner. I could have easily had room service and sat in my jammies. But, I showered, washed my hair, and donned a dress and heels and we walked over to Southbank and sat down in a Turkish restaurant. The food was awesome, but I had no hunger what so ever, so my entree platter of dips and turkish bread was largely untouched by me, and Peter ate all the bread and about half of the dips. The serving was huge, would have easily served 4 people for an entree.

I couldn't wait to go back to the hotel and go to bed. I was exhausted. We both had a pretty cruddy night's sleep, although I slept okay for about 3 hours!! Peter's snoring kept us both awake. Even a double dose of sleeping pills didn't help me. The buffet breakfast in the morning was awesome. I was actually hungry for that. The cereals, juices and breads were just delicious. We checked out at 11am and headed for home.

The kids had stayed with Peter's parents so we picked them up on the way home. They'd all had a lovely time too.

By 1pm I'd put on my jammies and was in my bed. I dozed for a couple of hours and then we headed out to pick up Izzy and to visit Rusty. My little kitten fell asleep on me yet again. Think I'll get my schmoozy cat yet!!

When we got home, I showered and got dressed and headed out to join Karen and Barbi at the retreat. I'm glad I went even though I was almost zombie like from fatigue. The food Barbi prepared was scrumptious, good simple fare, but I was ravenously hungry, making up for Friday I think. I was home and tucked back into bed at midnight. I'd decided I wasn't going back for the Sunday. I really needed and wanted a day at home.

Today I slept in, had a late breakfast and then did chores for most of the day. I cleaned some windows, did a heap of washing, and tidied. I feel good knowing I'm all organized for the week ahead.

I need to book an appointment with my counsellor. I don't want to end up with panic attacks again this year, and Christmas with all it's 'busyness' is starting to create havoc in my head. I've got a year 10 meeting to go to on Tuesday night, next week I'm taking photos for Julia's formal and also attending the pre formal 'do'. School is finished in only four weeks!! Can't believe the year is almost over again.

My Christmas list isn't done, and my budget is incredibly low. I'm going to contact my brother and suggest we do no gifts for each other. My presents to my girlfriends will be much less this year too, which is a shame, as I'd love to spend more on them, they are easy and fun to buy for. The Christmas album class is coming up and I was really tossing up whether or not to do it. I know Peter would have given me the money if I'd asked, as I don't have the money put aside for it this year. Alas fate has jumped in and taken that decision away from me as Sammy's IEP is on the same morning. I will think about it a bit more, but I don't think I'll get the kit either. Sad really, but I have to be practical and realistic. I have a little work coming up, so I'll hold off making the final decision and see how I'm travelling. Either way, I can't be at the class, and it's an annual tradition, something that Karen and I normally do together, although the last few years, she's left early to attend a school function, so perhaps it's just not meant to be.

I'm looking forward to Christmas. To hopefully having the family together, laughing, eating delicious food and drinking great wines. The only thing that would make it better, is if we could stay home on Christmas Day..... I know I shouldn't be like that. I always enjoy the day, but I'm so so weary, and quite frankly have had enough of the festivities for a few days anyway, so much so that I don't even want to do anything for my birthday, but a couple of days after Christmas Eve and I'm already thinking of what I can do. Tiredness is a pain in the butt, and takes away all motivation.

It's late afternoon, and I'm tired again. Looking forward to a nice night's sleep again tonight. I want to feel energized for the week ahead.

Life is good

I've had a good week. I love being at home just doing Mum things and getting the house in order. I find a strange kind of calm when all is good at home.

I asked Billy-Joe on the weekend if he was getting an award this year, because his grades have been quite good. He said no!!! I was stunned!! I thought either he did miserably this term, or the others just did so much better. Two days later, he came home and said there was an amended list up saying that he was the recipient of an academic award. I was thrilled and so was he of course. We both acknowledge that last years award was ours!! I'd helped him so much in all his assignments that it would have been unfair to accredit his award to just him. This year I gave him little or no help, only when he asked actually. So, for him to receive this award, is just wonderful

Last night was the awards night, we went of course. He received his award and we 'escaped' to McDonalds where I shouted him a frappe just like last year. We were home by 8.15, feeling very smug and content..... Not only does he have a beautiful nature, but he has a great work ethic too. I love that about him. He's an awesome child. There's nothing quite like the relationship that you can have with your first born. Don't get me wrong, I adore and cherish all my boys, but I guess because he's my first and is very much like me in many ways, we get along well, and have a very special relationship. He knows that first and foremost I'm his Mum and his parent, but we're also close and enjoy being together. I wish I could have been like him when I was young. He has a beautiful soul!

Today I got up bright eyed and bushy tailed,knowing I had a huge day ahead of me. I took the kids to school, and then came home and started to get things organized for tonight. I was glad that my groceries were fairly early. I crumbed 1.5kg of chicken schnitzel, made a sticky date pudding, cooked the potatoes for the salad and tidied the house.

I had to go and see Barbi as Peter and I are so directionally challenged and don't trust ourselves to find our hotel, and wonderful friend as she is, she helped me jot down 'girl directions' so that we can find our way. I also took in some stuff I'd been working on. I came home, got Izzy into the carry basket, picked up the kidlets and drove out to the cattery. We dropped of Izzy and then went and saw Rusty. I'm just so in love with him. He feel asleep on me once again. I know he's going to be 'my' cat!! I wont tell the kids though lol...... He's so cuddly and his fur is like silk, he even smells good. Am I the only one who loves how cats smell. Actually I like how budgies smell too....... Billy-Joe told me one day that Izzy smells like me, and that's why she smells so good. What a lovely compliment.

We got home, Sammy headed into the shower and Mum and Dad arrived. Seven weeks is a long time. It was so good to see them. I wanted to keep hugging them, and squeezing them. The kids were rapt that they were here, and Peter was so happy to see them too. Dinner was divine. I love how we have so much fun with my parents. They are Peter's and my best friends. We entertain them the most and always have so much fun together. It's a wonderful relationship and I treasure it so much.

It's late now, Peter is downstairs bottling beer, I've showered and have clothes in the dryer. The kids are fast asleep. I'm weary and missing Izzy. The house is so quiet without her.

Tomorrow we are off to the Food and Wine Show. Another fabulous day.

Life is good.

Just Another Day in Paradise

Some days are so busy, but there's just not much to show for it at the end of the day. A mother's lot I guess.

I decided I needed to take Sammy to the doctor ASAP as he needed another script for antihistamine drops for his Allergic Conjunctivitis and he also has a mole which I was concerned about, which I'd like removed pronto!!

I took Billy-Joe and Mickey to school and then went up to the medical centre to see if they could see Sammy. We couldn't get in until 12.20pm, so I took him to school and then came home. I did heaps of washing, the line was full. I made several phone calls, appointments for Bunny and some calls about my Teacher Registration. The rules have changed for registration, so I need to check where I stand. I don't want to teach but nor do I want to go through the whole palaver to re register if I DO decide to go back. I did Bunny's leave application, and then baked a divine Chocolate cake. I used my hatchet to get rid of all the daggy bits on the chicken wings, to do some prep for dinner and tidied up every single thing. Nothing is left out, my room is immaculate. I also dusted all the venetian blinds, and the furniture.

Just before noon Bunny came home and as I was flying around getting ready to get Sammy, I did some more clerical stuff for him, and then I picked up Sammy. The GP will excise the mole and we got the script for his drops.

We had to wait quite a while, so by the time he had lunch and I had a cup of tea and ate some fruit, it was after 1.30pm. I sat on my MacBook and did some Daisy website stuff, and then laid down for 25 minutes with my audiobook before I had to pick up the other two kids. I picked them both up and then took Sammy to keyboard lesson, and took the other two home. We had afternoon tea after I iced the cake, they did their homework, and I prepped the sauce for my chicken wings.

Then I picked up Sammy, got home, gave him afternoon tea, cooked the spuds for the smashed potatoes, brought in all the washing, and put it away. I was happy to have a shower and sit down at 4.40pm and I enjoyed a cold Pepsi Max.

I made a coleslaw in the Thermomix which turned out really well. I just made my normal dressing, with olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper, but chopped the carrot, cabbage and onion in the Thermo. It was perfect and took me less than a minute to make!!

It's now almost 7 o'clock and I'm happy to be sitting down. The kitchen is spotless, and the kids are almost reading quietly. Bliss!!

I've sent man of the house downstairs as the entire night will be taken up with phone calls to do with tomorrow's race, and I can't bear the noise lol.... I tell him all the time we don't really need a phone, as he has a voice like a megaphone, and I've been listening to this analysis of horses for 20 years, and it's always the same shit. Same shit, different races lol........

This week will continue to be busy, although not as crazy as today I hope, Billy-Joe has his award night on Wednesday, as a proud Mama, I will of course go, but I really hate that kind of stuff......you know where people stand up and say the same obligatory stuff, and we have to sit there patiently listening...... I'd much prefer to stay home and do my course webinar, but of course I want to be there to show my boy how proud I am of him. Last year he received an award, and I reminded him WE received the award as I helped him with all his assignments. This year, he has taken on all I taught him onboard, and he's earned his Bronze Award all on his own, and I'm just stoked. Sometimes I think it's sad that I don't want to work as a teacher, but the knowledge it's given me, as far as delivery of help has been invaluable, and I'm so rapt that my children are benefitting from that.

On Thursday my parents are returning from a 7 week holiday in Phuket. The time has gone quickly, but some days I have missed them dreadfully. I'm excited to know they're home soon, and are coming for dinner on Thursday night. I will take Izzy to the Cattery on Thurs night and we'll visit Rusty. On Friday Peter and I are off to the Food and Wine Show. It's the one night a year, we're on our own, and we're very excited about it. It's a fun weekend for us, a weekend where we do something we both love and can solely focus on each other - pretty special.

I've just had a lovely weekend. I'm still so content and so happy where I am at the moment with my life. On Saturday I cleaned like a madwoman, and am very happy to report that while my shoulder was sore, I didn't have to stop because of it. I used the green Enjo mitt and cleaned walls, in Billy-Joe's room, the toilet, laundry and hallway. I got Peter to do the laundry ceiling, it now looks so much better. I do enjoy cleaning, but hate hurting of course, so many things have been a bit neglected of late. We started the morning very relaxed, the kids didn't have golf and Peter didn't work, so we had a snuggle in and enjoyed a breakfast together with a big plunger full of coffee.

Whilst sitting I perused my Indian Thermo cookbook and chose a Prawn Masala dish for dinner that night. I also decided to make Onion Bhajee, (onion fritters made on delicious besan flour)

In the afternoon I ducked into the shops with Billy-Joe. We dropped into the new Dick Smith store and had a look at all gadgetry which of course we both love. I needed to buy Sammy some new undies, we dropped in and saw Julia and had an Iced Moccha before heading home. I enjoyed an hour or so on my MacBook and then I headed into the bath with my iPad and a couple of glasses of wine. I put some essential oils in the water, and just laid in there for well over an hour. It was so nice.

The meal on Saturday night was absolutely scrumptious. I was very pleased with how easy it was to prepare, and the flavours were so authentic. I had enough batter left over to make the Bhajees for dinner on Sunday night. I'd also bought some naan bread from coles, and it was very nice, much nicer than I thought it would be as I'm often dubious of a packet food.

Yesterday we looked after a friend of Sammy's. Archie's Mum was working at the Pet Expo and she is on her own, so we had her son. We all went to the beach and enjoyed fish and chips for lunch. After I got organized when we got home, Billy-Joe and I headed out to the Pet Expo. I was hoping to see lots of kittens and puppies, but it was a rather poor effort I thought. We did enjoy it though. I talked to someone about having pet meat home delivered and I got some samples too, which Izzy is just devouring with such gusto. I patted a malamute, which was the most beautiful dog I've ever seen in real life. I've only ever seen them in photos and on TV, never in real. I've always loved German Shepherds and this is a paler version, with the most amazing eyes. I also patted a greyhound, a much maligned dog, with a lovely shiny soft fur and a gentle nature. They had pet snakes which were just beautiful, and also the most brilliantly coloured budgies I've ever seen. I could have easily bought a budgie and a fish......but they don't go too well with two pussy cats!! We only spent just over an hour there, but we got in for cheap as the man on the gate knows me, and it was later in the afternoon already.

I can't believe there are only 53 days left till Christmas!!!

Reality Hits

I have to start this post with a sigh...not a huge one mind you, but a sigh nonetheless. Reality has indeed struck home, and it waited until about four days after we got back from Rainbow Beach. I didn't miss being super busy, I didn't miss getting the kids organized from school and I certainly didn't miss the afternoons where homework is the key focus. Even as a teacher, I find homework with my kids incredibly onerous. Actually at the moment, thank the Lord, it's not all three kids who make it difficult for me, but Sammy is very tiresome to work with. I take my hat off to his teachers, and their never ending patience and understanding of his quirks and foibles because I find them incredibly frustrating and also sad at times. Frustrating because I can't seem to make any headway with him, and sad because his lack of enthusiasm and motivation makes me sad. I fear for him in later life. When the idleness of childhood is something of the past. All our children see that their parents are always busy, working, ensuring the household is in order and running smoothly, so I don't know where this laziness comes from. I know that all kids and teens aren't motivated to do the more mundane things in life, but even with Billy-Joe he knows that if he just gets in and does it, it will soon be over and the fun stuff can be done instead. Even Mickey, has a work ethic. I sometimes need to pull him up to do stuff more neatly or do a bit more, but there's never an issue about him sitting down and doing the tasks........ It's all part of the difficult job of child rearing, I know.......I wish I knew how to make things easier for him. I talk and he understands, or so I think. I just can't give up.

The days since Rainbow have been full and a little overwhelming, and the weekend brought with it a wonderful sense of relief as things could slow down a bit.

We came home from Rainbow with a wonderful sense of well being. That satisfaction that comes from spending time with your family, and enjoying a relaxed time and a few extra treats. Eating out was great fun, not worrying about cooking was even better lol....... I slept well most nights and even had a few afternoon kips.

I will have to post photos up of our trip, my favourite ones. Here's a few I took over the weekend, and also of our new 'fur baby'. We're very lucky to be getting Rusty our new kitten into our family. The kids and I are beside ourselves with excitement. Rusty is a red burmese. The cattery where Izzy stayed is owned by a lady who breeds Burmese. I'd had no interest in these cats until the day we were shown through the cattery and these beautiful cats came toward us and promptly made us feel very welcome. I'd never seen a cat before quite so friendly. I asked the lady what sort they were, as they're regal bearing already showed they were of a pedigree breed. These cats were burmese, and as they say, the rest is history. We looked at the kittens and promptly fell in love with Rusty. It took a little convincing to get Peter to agree, and we had resigned ourselves to the fact that Rusty wouldn't be ours, when Peter changed his mind. There were tears of joy all round, we're rapt. He's our Christmas present.

The following photos are from a weekend visit to the markets and of Rusty.

A frog who was walking around the markets, promoting a nicer environment for frogs in forests. He was beautiful and played music.

It was a glorious day and there were lots of people enjoying the markets and strolling around. There's so much to see it's awesome.

Mickey enjoying a soft drink.

Sweet little Rusty.

Sansonia, but I've spelled it incorrectly and cannot find the correct spelling.

Suzy took this photo of Mickey and I, I love it

Copic Information

This may or may not be identical to my the class note info I hand out as I don't have it here. But I liked this and thought it may be helpful for other beginners. (credit given to the site where I found the info)

Hair Colours

Dark Brunette—E25, E49, E53, E59

Auburn/Red—E13, E17, E18, E19

Dark Blonde—YR23, E35, Y23

Light Blonde—Y11, Y21, E97, E99

Light Brunette—E25, E29, E31

Black—C3, C5, C7, C9

Golden-Red Brunette—E39, E99, E18, YR23 

Denim Jeans

 B91, B95, B97 

Skin Tones 

 E000, E00, E11, E21, R20

http://www.scrapbookboutique.com.au/s/80/COPIC-MARKERS-INFO--COLOURS---STAMPING-TIPS.html

It's nice to be home

Home, Sweet Home

'Mid pleasures and palaces though we may roam,
Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home; 

~John Howard Payne~

Even though I didn't want to leave Rainbow Beach, I am happy to be home. The above portion from an old poem just says it all. As little and humble my house is, I do love it. Actually today is nine years since we moved in here. We've been lucky home owners for 9 years. Where has the time gone. From a young school aged child and two babies, I now have three gorgeous boys, the eldest of whom will shortly enter his third year of high school. The years travel by so quickly. 

I had a busy day today, with a specialist appointment this morning, making sure I was organized for my class and then teaching this afternoon. It was a good day. The weather is glorious as perfect as any spring day in Qld can be. 

The rhuematologist has sent me for an MRI on my shoulder. It's been nearly two years since I've had problems with it, it's time to do some further investigations. It's good that she is listening to me. 

My Copic class went well this afternoon. It was  small class with only 4, but it's a lovely number. As luck would have it, the Copic order arrived during my class, so the ladies were able to add to their Copic and paper stash. With the sale this week, it's a good week to buy.

Izzy is delighted with having us home. She even sat on my lap today, I couldn't believe it. I was sorry that I had to get up and do some chores.

We're (the kids and I) are trying to convince Daddy that we should get another pussy cat!! When we picked up Izzy yesterday I asked if we could see the burmese kittens which the owner breeds. I've been doing some reading and they sound like an awesome breed. They're very loving and friendly. We saw the kittens and all fell in love......

Bunny's initial response was an emphatic no!! Wonder if I can convince him to change his mind........

Testing

On Holidays

Wednesday 14 October, 2010
We’ve only got three days left of our holiday, tomorrow we’ve been here a week. I always find the first few days go slowly, and then, as the routine of the days becomes established, the time goes more quickly. Actually almost as quick as our money.

Actually, I wonder how much money families spend on holidays. The families with good incomes, who do lots of paid things with their kids. The ones who attend the movies and theme parks and eat out all the time. It would run into the thousands. We’ve found we are having to be very careful with our funds, and what we are spending is all being spent on food, and most of it with food that we’re buying from the supermarket and eating at homes.

It’s been lovely to enjoy days that are quiet and relaxing. Days where my husband and I can just be together, where neither of us has to be anywhere else. Where the lack of routine means that we’re not rushing off to work, or having to take the kids anywhere. We’re all enjoying the rest. The kids are having fun spending so much time with us and have not tired of fishing everyday. My boys don’t fish to catch and eat the fish, but merely for the sport aspect of it. Billy-Joe caught a fabulous flathead the other day, it’s my favourite fish, and would have made a great meal, but there was no way that he could have killed it and brought it home. Suits me fine though, I like the fact that my boys are soft and enjoy letting the fish go back into the water.

We’ve all been sleeping in, with the exception of Mickey, who always falls asleep first and then is up early. Even Sammy and Billy-Joe slept until 10am today. It’s obvious our beds are comfy.

As the holiday nears its end, I’m thinking and planning already for the next holiday and also for the year ahead. I have a bit of catching up to do with my coursework and I also have a class booked for next week. So the day after we return, I“m right back into the routine, but with the knowledge that there are only 8 weeks left of the school year. I can’t believe that another school year is almost over, and that summer is quickly approaching. Next year Billy-Joe will be in year 10 and Sammy heads into his second last year of primary school. It didn’t seem all that long ago that they were all tiny children.

Thursday 15 October, 2010
I got up early and went fishing with my boys this morning. Bunny was most impressed that I was out of bed first!! Me the one who loves to snooze and snooze. I enjoyed it for the fact that I took lots of photos, and it's always nice just to watch the kids. I am loving just being with them. I sat down on the beach for an hour and a half and then had enough of the wind as my ears were beginning to ache, so I headed up to the car. I made a shopping list for Woolies and when the boys came up to the car we went home. We left Billy-Joe at home and headed out to Cooloola Cove and did some shopping, and I had to put a script in. 

After we took the food home, we went and had lunch at the sportman's club. The food was great. I had a chicken, and avocado pizza, which was just divine. It was even better than from the Italian Restaurant, and that dinner was really good. We hired some videos for the kids and had an ice cream. It was blustering and windy, but we still walked down and checked out the surf and I took a photo of the kids in front of the Cherry Venture’s propellor. I want to do a digi layout where I add the same photo from last year.

We got home, I showered and then laid down as I had a mild headache. Unfortunately I feel asleep lol....and woke up over an hour later.

The boys are now home from fishing, love how happy and excited they are when they come home.

At Rain(bow) Beach

We're away on our long awaited annual holiday. It almost seems unfair, that we save so hard for our break and then it rains....but you know what? We are still making the most of it. For one thing, we've already decided that next year, we'll go away a little later in the year. Sept/Oct is too unstable weatherwise here in Qld. Last week the weather was just glorious. Hot everyday, cool nights and I was in summer clothes, with short shorts and a singlet top and this week, it's raining.... Thankfully though it's not cold.

We booked the same house that we had last year. We're a little sad though to see that nothing's been done to the place. The weeds have been let run rampant and the broken towel rails, and door knobs haven't been fixed. Even the hissing/whisting toilet that Bunny fixed last year, hasn't been fixed properly. We'll go somewhere else next year, and this house is on the market too, it's obvious the owner doesn't want to spend any money. Sadly too, most people who rent holiday homes treat them badly. We treat this house like our own.....why can't more people be like us.

On the flipside though, the beds are still comfy, the house roomy, and I love having an ensuite. I can't believe that I think having my own shower and toilet is luxurious, but it is. Home has had bucketloads of rain, it's made the papers, they've had 10 inches of rain in a few hours....we're lucky to not have had as much here.

Probably the only thing we've done different so far, is that we can't sit on the beach, and I've not sat by the pool. We have still eaten out, enjoyed the relaxed feeling and enjoyed each others' company. We've even all been in the pool, crazy as it sounds, because it's not hot, but we're not going to miss out on having our own pool.

Even from last year, my kids have grown up so much. We let them in the water on their own now. All three are competent in the water, and it's a liberating feeling.

We stopped in at Aldi on the way up here and bought some nice food. There's a woolies about a half hour away from here, and an IGA and Foodworks handy for everyday things. The bakery sells yummy bread and there's the obligatory fish and chip shops, cafes and pizza places. Last night we out out Thai. It was very nice, but rather expensive. It's a shame that it costs $145 to take a family of five out for dinner!!!! We won't be doing that again. The same menu in Nambour would have cost us about $85, and the food would have been just as good. No wonder we don't eat out much as a family, the cost is prohibitive. The kids love eating out though, and we love taking them out, so it's a real treat for all of us.

The boys have been fishing twice already, and I've been happy staying home, on my MacBook, reading and snoozing. Tomorrow they want me to go too though.....and they want me to get dirty yikes, they want me to have the mud coming up through my toes.....not sure about that lol........ I don't mind to fish though, so we'll see what transpires. I'm not going if this weather continues though.

Sammy playing with the wrestling figurines in the lounge room.

Billy-Joe on his 'Apple Dell' in the family room.

Kidlets enjoying an ice cream at the yummy ice cream shop.

Kids swimming , with Mickey saving on washing.

A Cardmaking Retreat

It's Sunday afternoon, the last day of the holidays. The Grand Final (NRL) has just finished and my kids are just finishing their dinner. We're not really sad because on Friday we head off to Rainbow Beach for our annual holiday. A time that we all look forward to, and my dear hardworking husband needs this time to recharge his battery.

This last week was lovely. I still didn't end up achieving what I wanted to do, but I thoroughly enjoyed these aspects
- sleeping in every day, some days later than I wanted
- the fact that days aren't strictly regulated by time or schedule
- the fact my kids now occupy themselves and are happy and content
- if I decide on the spur of the moment to cook something or go somewhere, I can
- the kids are now old enough, so if I have an errand or an appointment, I can take Mickey with me and the two older kids are fine at home on their own.
- the fact that school pick up time comes along and I can stay home

Downsides to the holidays
- the time goes too fast
- For some reason I chop and change what I'm doing, and I don't seem to spend time just settled and relaxed. I always think of something else I could do (based around chores).
- I plan to create and I don't take the time :(
- I don't have the money to do lots of fun things with the kids (I did take them to Lazerzone on one morning, but that was largely funded by the Golf Club).
- No one takes my chores away just because I'm on holidays.

Normally I'm feeling a bit down on the last day before the kids go back, but because we're going away, no one feels too bad today. The kids will have four days back at school and then we're off. Ten days of the barest of housework, eating out, ice creams, fishing and lazying on the beach of by the pool and reading lots, and watching movies!!

Okay, once again I've had this sitting here without uploading it, and the post isn't finished. Rather than deleting it, I'll upload and made a new one asap....

My Day

I would like to blog more, but my day so often sounds so dull when I try to recount it in my head. The thing is though, it never feels dull to me. I enjoy my days. Whether I'm working heaps, doing errands, cooking, cleaning, it doesn't matter. I like what I do. I love being a Mama @ home.

The funny thing with the holidays is that I always imagine I'm going to have bucketloads of time to complete so much more than I normally do, but it never seems to happen, if anything I'm often more busy....

For example the kids are at golf clinic this week which means that I have all this time on my own. While the golf course isn't far away, they're doing major roadworks near my house, so it's currently taking me about 80 minutes a day just to take them and pick them up again. Before we started this morning, we headed out to visit the Cattery where Izzy will be staying while we're on holidays. We always left Charlie at home on her own, and the neighbours or a friend would come and feed her. Because Izzy is inside all night and enjoys the boys' company we can't leave her on her own. It wouldn't be fair to her. She would miss us dreadfully, and I would worry like crazy. The lady at the cattery said we could come and check out where the cats are housed, and I knew the boys would love to go and see too.

The place was outside of town, set in beautiful surrounds. The cattery was spotlessly clean and didn't even smell like it was full of kitties. The boys and I were in our element. We were allowed to pat the cats, the sociable ones that are allowed out into an open area. They were so smoochy, it was lovely. A burmese jumped on Billy-Joe's lap while he was crouched down to pat another cat, then, later the same cat jumped onto Sammy's back. It was so nice being in a full on cat environment. I asked the lady about Burmese cats as the owner breeds them. They sell for $400. That's an expensive little kitty.....I can just imagine Bunny if we said we wanted another cat lol......

I dropped the kids at golf and then headed to the store to order some pizza flour for Suzy and I. As I pulled up, my groceries had arrived, so that was good timing.

Ooops, I started that post 5 days ago lol, see how distracted I get. That's what happens when you do lots of things at once.

The weekend has been and gone. On Saturday I was looking forward to having a day where I could just please myself. I slept in a little, got up, did some chores and then got showered and dressed to go out. Suzy, Karen and I were going to a Thermomix class which I was looking forward to.

This is an old post, that I forgot to upload.

School Holidays continue

I’ve not looked back over my blog, but no doubt I was going to achieve wonders and miracles!!! Mind you I’ve had a lovely time, especially this second week, but the time goes by far too quickly.

Yesterday I took the kids to Golden Beach. I love going there, as there’s no waves and I can sit really close to where the kids are swimming and playing. I feel much better being close to them and not having my voice drowned out by waves. It was windy though, which was a shame. The kids had a ball wrestling in the water, playing on the skimmer board and digging to China. I sat watching them for the most part, and listened to my audiobook for a little while. When a storm was threatening, with ominous dark clouds, we decided to leave.

We bought ice creams and then headed home for an early shower and got in our jammies. Peter dropped home at 2pm and couldn’t believe we were already for sleeping lol. Love holidays. Love the fact that it’s easy. Oh and did I mention in my last post what a far cry it is from when the kids were little. I used to hate school holidays. The kids were little and naughty and nearly drove me insane!! It still surprises me sometimes that we all came through it unscathed. Now I love the holidays. The kids sleep in, and let me sleep in too. It’s peaceful in the mornings, and calm.

Today I’ve had a busy day, only just sitting down to chillax now, and it’s after 4pm. I tidied my pantry this morning, got rid of out of date packets and generally made it look more organized. It didn’t take long, as I do a little in it each week anyway, I can’t stand a messy pantry. Billy-Joe under my supervision, made the Marble Cake out of the Thermomix EDC, I’ve iced it and it looks awesome. I did it in the fluted springform and it looks lovely. I’m still a little undecided about doing the icing sugar in Thermie though, it’s still gritty, maybe I need to blitz it for even longer than I do. I did it for what I thought was quite a bit longer, but it’s still gritty. Will have to look into that one. I minced up chicken thigh fillets and have made an asian flavoured mixture which I’ll roll into meatballs. I won’t buy chicken mince anymore. I also went to an organic store which sells an amazing range of food. I’ve never been into that store before and it was a real eye opener. I can’t wait to go back there, with more of an idea of what I want. I bought some spelt flour, 5 grain mix, and some pepitas. At this stage I was just buying a few things to make my bread a little more special and healthier. I will buy my burghul and couscous and rices from there too in future. I also need to get some more containers and things for my pantry, if I’m going to keep this kind of stuff. Seeds and grains are so good for us, and now that I have a Thermomix, no hassle to cook, as I can mill anything I buy. I could even make my own tahini as they sell organic sesame seeds.

The chicken mince is done, the rolls are ready to go in the oven, and I’m just sitting, and reflecting on my productive day. I called in to Daisy’s this morning too and bought some stamps which I’ll play with on the weekend.

Mmmm, must be wine o’clock soon....... I’ve been nursing a headache all day, my second day running, not sure why I’ve got a headache, it’s certainly not stress related. Maybe I need a visit to a physiotherapist to get my neck looked at.

I’m looking forward to this weekend, but not the sleeping arrangements. I’ll have to make sure I have my Restavit and pray for a quiet room.

So much to say and not enough time

That's the story of my life. Blog posts whirring around my head with regular monotony and yet they rarely make it down. The busier my life gets the less I blog - realistically it's not the most important item on my list of 'to dos' but it is important for me really. I do enjoy going back over and reading old posts. One day, I'll have to get it made into a book, I have downloaded a copy onto my hard drive, but it needs updating too. I've just gone and read over the last few posts on my kitchen blog. Where have the last three years gone. So glad I took the time to document that, otherwise tiny details would have been lost. That's why I blog, to remember, and to document. Seeing as I've not scrapped in months, at least if my blog is up to date, the important things (for the most part) are documented.

Even though life is so incredibly busy at the moment, I certainly have no complaints. We're all healthy and happy, and really, is there anything else needed? The bills are paid, and we're comfortable albeit a little cramped in our little house.

The boys are growing and thriving and a constant joy in our lives. Not a day goes by though, where I'm not grateful that I'm past all the little kid stuff. Don't think I have that fortitude for it anymore, no correction, I know I don't have that anymore. It's like I've done the hard yards and am very happy that it's behind me. I remind myself constantly though, when little things happen that now make my life so much easier, to not forget those days. I'm grateful that the discipline, routine, (ranting and raving) has finally paid off. I know I go on about this from time to time, but it's something I think of often, I don't ever want to forget, and I remind Peter all the time too, as he often views things through rose coloured glasses.

The school holidays have begun and we're all very happy about that. The kids need time to chill out just as much as I do. The weather has been cruddy, but the kids enjoyed a quiet weekend playing their various games and watching movies. During this week, they've been going to a golf clinic, these weeks are very good for them, gets them outside, and with other kids. It also re ignites their love of the game, although in all honesty, given a choice Billy-Joe and Sammy would be lazy and sit on their butts for the entire time lol.... Mickey has more get up and go than the other two put together!! He needs to keep busy. He's not interested in spending hours in front of a screen, he needs to move and play....it's so good. He's actually the one that gets bored though, as Billy-Joe and Sammy are content to just occupy themselves quietly. But we're bad parents and we make our kids take part in the clinic [grin] and of course they have an absolute blast.

I've been busy with doing my e course and also working for Barbi. The Copic classes have taken off and my ladies are pleased. I'm not going to continue with a Copic Card Class as such, I'm great at teaching knowledge and techniques, but not so good imparting creativity or inspirational ideas. I'd feel too much pressure, teaching card makers how to make cards lol...... I want to enjoy this, not make it stressful. I was happy when I stopped teaching scrapbooking, so I'm not going back there again. Many think that turning your hobby into your work is a great idea, but it's not like that at all. Many a hobby has been fouled because it became work!! I've not done any scrapbooking as I mentioned, nor have I done any digital stuff either, which is a bit sad. There aren't enough hours in the day and I always seem to find something else to do.

I'm loving my Thermomix. I'm still considering restarting my recipe blog, but I'm still cooking things mainly from the cookbook. I'm happy doing that at the moment. No doubt when I get sick of those recipes I'll venture out. I have used the Thermomix for my own recipes though. Actually I use it every single day, usually two or three times. I've made jam three times, the scone are awesome, each week I make a pasta sauce, tonight I made my lasagne and did the sauce in Thermie. I bake heaps more than I did before, because its so easy and my shoulder doesn't have to do anything. Often the hardest part of making something is getting the ingredients out!! I've made bread too, but will experiment with different types of bread. Making the pizza dough in Thermie is awesome and so much easier and quicker than using the bread machine. I have to find a new home for my older appliances..... I won't use them anymore. The kids are learning how to use it too, which is great. The recipes are so simple and in typical childlike fashion, they have no fear of using gadgets.

I'm off to my girlfriend's house this afternoon who is taking delivery of her very own Thermomix. She's as excited as I was on the day mine came. Can't wait to see her and help her make a few things. Laurent is so busy at the moment, he can't stay for a demo, but rather than have her wait for her Thermo, she's getting it today...... We're off to a class on Saturday, so it will be fun to learn new recipes. I've had a perusal of other cookbooks which my other girlfriend loaned me and there are others I want to buy too. I use the Everyday one everyday.....but would love the Indian one and probably some of the others too.

Okay, this post was lots of fluff and ramblings........best close off now...before I go off on another tangent.

Welcome to our household ~ My Clever Bimby.

I am in love! I have a new 'gadget' in my household. No, it's not a computer, or handheld device........I do like other things not computer or Apple oriented, although one could argue, I do seem to hover around that prohibitive price point with the things I love to have........I'm fortunate to have a husband who not only indulges me but trusts my judgement - I'm very lucky indeed.

I first heard about the Thermomix (It's called Bimby in some European countries and I think it sounds cute, so I'll call it Bimby or Thermie for short!!), from Laurent the chef who Bunny organized to cook my birthday dinner for me, the night he planned for me where I invited 5 of my closest girlfriends to dinner, and Laurent, a french chef cooked me a divine three course meal, complete with hors d'oevres and a divine cake for dessert. Laurent told me he'd made quite a few things on my menu in the Thermomix, something I'd never heard of before. He told me it was this amazing gadget that cooked, and weighed and minced and diced and kneaded and it was used heavily in his tuck shop every day. At this stage, I didn't realize it would feature in Laurent's book and would also be seen on MasterChef.  I thought nothing more of it, as the price he quoted me was prohibitive!!  Then, a few months later, my girlfriend said she'd seen an article in a newspaper and was this the same gadget. We deduced that it was. Then, Karen was invited to a demonstration of this wunder machine. Karen, couldn't get over how fabulous this machine was. She said the food was sensational. I was very interested after hearing her review. Karen said that her husband was very interested too, so she booked a demo to which I was invited. I remember watching this consultant cook, and fluff her way through the demo, (she was very knowledgable but a bit ditzy and all over the place lol.....) The food she cooked was divine. It was simple, fresh and delicious. I'd never tasted anything like it before. I consider myself a good cook, but have to do lots to make something taste good. This looked so simple and effortless and yet the food was sensational. She made this risotto, and I kept thinking the whole time, that's not going to taste good, as there's not enough flavour in it. It was divine. Just with mushrooms, parmesan cheese, spinach leaves, and a home made vegetable stock. I was stunned at the flavour of it. At that moment, I decided the machine was worth getting just for the stock. She also made these bread rolls, which were kneaded for a few minutes and I was convinced they'd make great squash balls, or garden ornaments!!! She added her own grains, which the Bimby mushed up with no effort at all. The bread was absolutely sensational, I was actually stunned!! They were soft, fluffy and so healthy. She also made a sorbet which is a standard to show people what the Bimby can do. You can use raw sugar, and in seconds have white sugar, then a sec more for castor sugar, and a few more to make icing sugar. No anti caking agents, nothing added, just pure sugar!!  The sorbet has fresh fruit added to it, ice cubes, (the noise this makes is unbelievable, but the Bimby just chomps through them). The final result is just beautiful and creamy.....and you know what's in it, and you've paid barely anything for it. You can use lemons off you tree, ice from the freezer, everyone has sugar, and you add an egg yolk, or pineapple juice and voila you have a dessert made in seconds which hasn't just cost you $7-8 to buy!!!!

So after Karen's demo, I walked away so excited for her as her husband happily handed over the $$$ for it as he was impressed too. This was just before Christmas and since then I've attended another demo and a cooking class held at the local community centre, and it just convinced me further that I wanted this thing.

Last Saturday it arrived. Laurent, delivered it, not only dumping it at my door with the cookbook, but he stayed for two and a half hours and made a sorbet, a chocolate cake, and pizzas and a chicken curry. He left and I was so excited about my machine, but the only thing I had to try in it was cream to whip lol..... It was quick and easy and didn't make the mess that my electric beaters always make. I always have to wear an apron, because it spits white dots everywhere and drives me nuts!!  The next day I made a quick berry sorbet to show my Mum and Dad. In hindsight the sorbet is probably not the best thing that advertises it as listening to it crunch the ice is quite disconcertingly loud. The sorbet was beautiful though, even better than Laurent's!!!

Ready for the jam

Since then, I've only had one day where I've not used it. I can't believe how awesome the machine is. My shoulder is so grateful. No longer when  a recipe asks for me to cream the butter and sugar, will I just take the shortcut and melt it, or worse, hurt my shoulder to do it. I cooked a spaghetti bolognese one night. I was very dubious of this dish. I hate meat that's not been browned first, and has then been let to 'stew' to completion. It gets a very strong taste, which I hate. Even onions not browned and done in the slow cooker, take on a taste which I find overpoweringly offensive.  Well this Spag bol was the best one I'd ever made. I couldn't believe it. I just literally threw everything in, and let it cook at the speeds and times suggested in the cookbook (25 minutes) and voila I had a pasta sauce done!!  I normally cook a spaghetti sauce for 2-3 hours and then I think it's enough!! On Thursday I'd had a migraine, and didn't feel like cooking anything, so I used the dish I'd frozen from the chicken curry that Laurent made on the Saturday. I had tasted it when he'd made it, and decided it needed a few more things, so I added my own fish sauce, more garlic, more chilli and some kaffir lime leaves. I also decided to cook the rice in Bimby too, for the sake of the experiment. I've never had a problem cooking rice, I don't need a rice cooker, so I didn't think I could make it any better in the Bimby, well again I was impressed!! While the curry stayed hot in the thermo serve, my rice cooked in barely any water, and it was delicious!!

So this week, I've made my vegetable stock, some strawberry jam, a pineapple cake from Laurent's cookbook, tomato pasta sauce and I'm very impressed and am so happy to have this item. I'm going to make my own mayonnaise too, so I don't have to buy the stuff that has preservatives galore in it, it's Laurent's aioli recipe. In the summer when the chillies are on, I'll make my own sweet chilli sauce. You don't even have to chop stuff, I stuck the tomatoes in whole for the tomato sauce!! Effortless, chuck it all in, and cook it for 30 minutes and then it was all done, let it cool a bit and put into freezer in containers. So for under $3 I've got pasta sauce for two meals. Cheaper even than home brand stuff and I know what's in it. A quarter of the tomatoes were even from our garden, so I'm rapt.

Ready to make the tomato sauce