LIFE'S A BEACH

SENSATIONAL SURF - SENSATIONAL DAY

2012-02-10T21:46:00.000+10:30

The Sunday before school resumed was THE most perfect beach day you could wish for.

Perfect temperature, no wind and set after set of perfect waves! Even perfect for me!

We spent 5 wonderful hours in the ocean racing each other to the shore.

Allan and I showed the girls how to safely swim out over the breaks and wait for the right wave to bring you in.

Rori graduated from her little board to the big board and was soon mixing it with the best!

Aba gave a helpful push off.

This pic just sums it up - SENSATIONAL!

CRAFTY KIDS ALIENS ROBOTS & ROCKET SHIPS

2012-02-10T21:10:00.001+10:30

A Christmas gift from Uncle Adam Auntie Bron Nash & Chase resulted in hours of fun making a robot, a rocket ship complete with docking station and a rather cute alien.

It's great to see the girls take on the models in the book.

It's also great to see what they can make out of recycled 'stuff'.

When I was a kid my mum had a huge jar of assorted buttons. I loved to play with that jar of buttons,

sorting by colours and sizes and shapes.

Most of the buttons in those days were taken from items of clothing that we owned and were ready for the rag bag. Buttons and zips were always removed to be recycled elsewhere.

I started doing the same thing but sadly I'm not such a good recyler as the previous generation.

Most of my buttons come from clothing purchased that now have a spare or two to replace those darned buttons

that seem to be attached by just one thread and come loose within the first wash!

Those buttons did add some life to the little creatures, along with toilet rolls,

egg cartons, silver foil, pipe cleaners and take away containers!

BKP PHOTOGRAPHY

2012-02-09T21:54:00.000+10:30

Bron has captured Nash in such a special way - I love all the shots of Nash playing at the Lakes playground. He especially loves the sand and the conveyor belt. I love each photo, but I cropped the last one and that is my favourite favourite - if that makes any sense!

Something Special xx

The Fall of The Mighty Tower

2012-02-05T12:36:00.002+10:30

He LOVES LOVES LOVES to build towers

Just to knock em down and build up again and AGAIN and AGAIN and AGAIN and AGAIN!!!

He's A Beautiful Boy!

2012-02-05T12:32:00.001+10:30

He is happy and cute and sweet and snuggly and funny and gorgeous and amusing.

He keeps himself amused

He is so strong for an 8 month old

He is crawling

He loves his food

He loves people

Loves his sleeps

He's a beautiful happy boy

He has the warmest smiling brown eyes

He's just an all round beautiful happy boy........

.... well, most of the time!

I might be a little upset too if someone stuck an owl on my head!

We love you Chase and your cute owl hat!

PREVIEW OF WHAT'S COMIN' UP

2012-01-30T22:25:00.002+10:30

It's the end of summer holidays and we are all back to school, me for the past week and the kids as of tomorrow. I was hoping to catch up on my blogging during the past 6 weeks but, alas, no! So here's a little preview of what is still to come :)

AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE

2012-01-27T22:41:00.002+10:30

We celebrated Australia Day pretty quietly this year. The newest little Aussie in our family looked a bit cute in his hat!

Nash showed his patriotism with a tattoo on his arm.

If you look closely you can see Adam's tatt on the side of his neck.

The flag fluttered in the breeze from the balcony.

And the BBQ was brought indoors as it became a little cool and breezy outside.

The BBQ was finished off perfectly with a pavlova roll filled with cream, peaches and pineapple (a la Chooka) with extra strawberries and blueberries, not to mention EXTRA CREAM!

Plus a delicious bread and butter pudding.

We are lucky people living in the Lucky Country and I'm THANKFUL :)

Below a beautiful sunset that I snapped from the balcony this evening. I rushed to the sand dunes to try and capture a different persepective but the sun had all but sunk into the ocean.

BUT, look what I found instead, I don't know who was more surprised! Me or the little Wobberly

(that's a Wallaby in the real world)

I think he was more surprised, he bounded off quickly once he saw me come over the dune!

My Country by Dorothea Mackellar - 1885-1968, written in 1904

I love a sunburnt country,

A land of sweeping plains,

Of ragged mountain ranges,

Of droughts and flooding rains.

I love her far horizons,

I love her jewel-sea,

Her beauty and her terror –

The wide brown land for me!

This is the second verse of the poem of which there are six verses. For years I thought this was the whole poem! I was taught it at school, so either my attention span was pretty short or my teacher thought one verse was all I was capable of retaining! Even though this is the only verse I've memorised, it is enough, it epitomises the beautiful land I am privileged to live in and call "My Country".

BRUCIE'S BIRTHDAY

2012-01-26T12:08:00.000+10:30

We travelled light and Nash brought the bike along to carry the goodies in the trailer.

We met new cousin Arthur Joshua who came to visit all the way from England.

Cousin Saxon was there too.

Nash and Arthur got along famously.

With a little brother of a similar age, Nash was right at home on the mat with Arthur.

He knows about these things.

He is a big brother after all!

We reaquainted with cousin Acacia who was visiting Pa Brucie and Chooka for Christmas, Acacia and her mummy and daddy live in Indonesia.

She loved riding Nash's trike with a little help from Daddy.

And big cousin Saxon.

But I think she LOVED being in the trailer with Nash in the driver's seat best of all!!

Mako was a little sad to be on the chain and not running around with the kids :(

Nina came up for a feed.

Quentin was chef for the occasion, prepared quite the birthday feast.

And we all enjoyed it all - especially the cake made by Chooka.

Chooka was very very happy to have her little international grandbabies home :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRUCIE xx

THE OLD AND THE NEW

2012-01-24T20:58:00.003+10:30

OLD FRIEND! 21 Years Old

Me and Lizzie - Our "Family Photo" taken at school circa 1991, 2 or 3!!!

Don't mess with the Secretary and the Librarian!

NEW YEAR RESOLUTION

OLD New Year Resolution!

The Charles Schultz Philosophy

2012-01-20T21:47:00.001+10:30

I received an email today from an old friend, yes I'm pretty lucky to have so many old friends, I'm blessed and I'm THANKFUL - it will all make sense when you read the following excellent advice.......FROM LIZZIE friends since 1991, that's 21 years - Hey Lizzie, Happy 21st to us xx

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schultz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip.

You DON’T have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.

3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.

4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!

5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?

The lesson:

The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials...the most money...or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today.

It's already tomorrow in Australia !'

''Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!"

HAPPY GOTH BIRTHDAY BRONWYN KAYE

2012-01-20T08:29:00.000+10:30

Thank you for inviting me to your party!

I was prepared to dress the part!

I mean, it's not every day you are invited to a special occasion like this!

60th?? What do you mean 60th?

Your invitation says GOTH! Come to my GOTH BIRTHDAY it says!!!

I'm all prepared for a Goth Birthday celebration and..................

This is what I got instead - PHEW, it was a 60th after all, I had visions of mixing with a hoarde of 60 year old GOTHS!

Goth, that was a scary thought!

Hubby John led the happy birthday chorus and sung his lungs out - just like you should!

How many Mums see thier daughter celebrate 60th birthdays - She may be white haired, and to be thruthful i don't know how old Mrs McMahon is but she's a bright little button still looking after herself, still driving (Bron's not too sure she should be!), still loves to dress up, not quite Goth style:) Always good for a chat and a laugh!

Happy Birthday Bronny, Thanks for the 33 years of friendship that continues to bring us together even though we live miles apart now xx

.......we had some fun!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ADAM PAUL

2012-01-12T08:44:00.001+10:30

I came across a free trial of a Microsoft collage program - I really like it! I spent way too long sitting at the computer putting dozens of collages together. This one perfect for Adam's birthday recently celebrated on 2nd January.

Photos from this collage from birth to 14 years old

Dinner at the Bellum and cake back home to celebrate!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FIRST BORN xx

THANKFUL

2012-01-03T08:47:00.001+10:30

This is a thankful post.

Reminding myself to be thankful for what we have, what we have had and not what we have not.

Be Thankful – Living with Gratitude - Celebrating living with gratitude, unselfish love, and personal and spiritual growth.

BUT - have you ever wondered? Why is there only one 'L' on the end of thankful? Thank & full, should that not equal thankfull?

Here's what I am thankful for in 2011 - in no particular order!

If the only prayer you ever say in your life is “Thank you”, it will be enough – Meister Eckhart (1260-1320)

NYE 2011 12 IN OUR NECK OF THE WOODS

2012-01-01T20:40:00.003+10:30

In our neck of the woods Adam cooked up a storm, but first hand he prepared some Alaskan crab from the Bering Sea, you know the stuff from The Deadliest Catch? We also had Pt Mac Lobster from our own pots to compare it with. It was extremely sweet, a little like the meat that comes from the thick section of the lobster that the feelers are attached to. Compared pretty well actually, but I think the legs from our lobster just win the contest - just!!

In our neck of the woods we hung out on the balcony while the food cooked in the weber bbq for our last feast of 2011.

In our neck of the woods the Straties joined our feast.

In our neck of the woods we decorated the balcony with cutie colourful lanterns.

And a few bigger lanterns as well.

In our neck of the woods someone played around with the lanterns and the aperture on their camera, just for fun!

LOVE THOSE LANTERNS!

In our neck of the woods the moon was almost half and really low in the sky, so low that it appears to be hiding behind the Norfolk Pines just up the road.

In our neck of the woods someone was sleeping.

Someone was building towers.

Buzz came for a visit.

So did the Foxes.

And in our neck of the woods we watched the magnificent Sydney Harbour fireworks at 11:30am then were unexpectedly treated to the Port MacDonnell fireworks at midnight.

We were impressed!

IT WAS A MERRY AND VERY BRIGHT CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR

2011-12-29T22:24:00.002+10:30

THE PREPARATION

The food preparations started early as usual with the meats being prepared for the BBQ and pudding ready to go on the boil.

THE GIFTS

The gifts under the tree (yes that is my tree this year!), ready for the giving. Steve's old Santa sack was full of gifts for the girls, the only part of the day that brought some sadness, this is first time ever that Steve has not spent Christmas lunch with us and the first time ever that the girls didn't have lunch with us also.

THE TABLE

Our table was bright, colourful and festive this year and that is how it made us feel too!

Even Nash's setting matched the theme!

This cutie little red bird was part of a Secret Santa bloggers gift. An Aussie blogger that I follow, Fat Mum Slim, had an international SS which I joined. I received my gift from just over the border in Victoria and my gift was sent to Houston, Texas, USA!

The gifts and hugs were then given in abundance.

THE LOVE

Oh the pleasure of an 18 year old Glenfiddich

And so were the laughs!! Anyone who knows Allan knows of his obsession to rid the world of flies!!!! He received TWO of these bug zappers which he found out actually worked very well at zapping your finger if you put it in the zapmeister it self!!

THE BOYS

And so there were my beautiful bubba boys

Well, actually they are OUR beautiful bubba boys!

THE FOOD

And the jobs to do to put our delicious lunch on the table. Bron in charge of the roast potatoes, Carol everything else while I'm happy to record the event!

THE GIVING

After lunch it was time for more gifts

THE RECEIVING

Someone knows the key to Nanny's heart!!

Watching Bron's face as she opened her gift to reveal what was inside was priceless!

Yay a Roomba Yay Yay Ya!!

THE TRIKE

He didn't quite know what to think, he had stumbled across this trike a couple of times when we tried to hide it. It's a jolly hard thing to hide! But it was still a surprise and how he loved it. He could even reach the pedals and push himself around....

....and around

.....AND AROUND!!!

(AND AROUND)

THE MOTHER AND THE BABY BOY

THE BUBBLES

AND, OH MY GOSH!!!

THE PUDDING

This year the pudding had five sets of little hands in it. Everyone voted this one the bestest ever.

THE GIRLS

Greeted by three excited little girls and "Nanny we have been waiting ALL DAY!" It was so good to see them and share some of the day with them.

Hmmm...see some resemblance there?

The table tennis was popular

Almost as popular as Tulle's groovy purple guitar!

THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE PERRYMANS

And a piece of pud for you too, complete with the old silver coins of a by-gone era xx

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL

2011-12-21T23:21:00.001+10:30

Off we all go to see Santa - he made a visit to the Allendale Community Hall - Thanks Santa!

Chase's first Santa experience - looking pretty cool about it all!

Christmas activities for the kids while waiting for Santa to arrive

Hopefully now that I am on holiday I can catch up with some blogging.

A happy safe and blessed Christmas to your house from mine xx

SHOW TIME

2011-12-09T05:41:00.002+10:30

This year Nash soon worked out what the 'Show' was all about. He was recovering from a cold but was still keen to try it all out! He loved the rides and couldn't understand why he could ride 'em all! He also worked out pretty quickly that it took money to have the privilege! "I need money Daddy" "I need more money Nanny"

Here's a crazy man for you!

All the way from Canada to Australia to climb a pole and stand on your head!

The jumping castle was a favourite, getting Nash out again was a challenge! As soon as he heard 'time to come out now', he would disappear or climb up the climbing wall again!

But we manged to entice him out eventually!

Adam had a go at the throw and came ever so close to winning won of those horrible stuffed creatures! Can be lucky some times.

Aba and Nash on the dodgems, not too much dodgem happening but a bit of biff. Some Grandads don't grow up!

Having some trouble uploading, so this will have to be show time part 1. Stay tuned for the next update :)

Grandparents Day at St Martins

2011-12-05T17:53:00.000+10:30

I don't know who enjoys it more, but we sure have a lot of fun. We visit each classroom and check out their desks and work books and the modern way of teaching with 'smartboards'.

Then the kids go back to class and the Grands have a wonderful morning tea!

Fabulous Family of Four

2011-12-05T17:44:00.000+10:30

Adam is so proud of his little family - can you see why? I can and I'm proud of them too!

When number two comes along it's important to have the one to one photos that first born has automatically.

Here's little Chase with his Mummy and Daddy

His big brother

And don't forget Nanny!!

She's Gorgeous No Matter Which Way You Colour Her

2011-12-05T17:38:00.001+10:30

Little One doesn't usually pose up for photos, but this day she was up for a little photo shoot with her new hat on. So over to the beach we went and she was all smiles

My Gorgeous Little One xx

Goodness Gracious Goggles

2011-12-03T23:06:00.000+10:30

We bought some goggles to learn to snorkel. Too excited to wait for beach weather little one decided to give them a work out at home. So fitting began and the bath was run!

It was a little bit foggy inside those goggles, but she soldiered on!

Unfortunately they were leaky goggles and had to be returned to the store. Goggles still on the shopping list!

"Aba's Got A New Shed"

2011-12-03T23:00:00.001+10:30

Had these photos for a while, but finally, "Aba's got a new shed" The burning of the shed and all of it's contents has been a real worry for Nash - each time we come in the drive now with Nash that's what we hear, his happy little "Aba's got a new shed" and it is all shiny bright and new!

New shelves, new mezzanine floor

New pots and accessories

But most exciting of all is the NEW MOWER!!!!

Black, shiney and new.

All the kids had a go, including the biggest of all!

I even had a go.

We love Aba's new mower!

THE BEACH BECKONS

2011-11-16T06:23:00.000+10:30

With a run of fine sunny warm weather the rashies and togs are out of the cupboard and we have hit the beach running!

The surf has been good enough to try out the new boogie boards. Tulle was flying and Rori was dumped, but she saddled up again and hit the waves.

Who needs a boogie board when you have a Cat truck!

The birds came out to play too!

And I sat back and enjoyed the whole scene :)

Bring on summer!

Those Eyes

2011-11-08T06:45:00.000+10:30

Born with bright blue eyes, over the next couple of years they turned green, enhansed with a dark ring around the outside.

The shade of green depends on the day, sometimes they are almost grey, other days a brighter green.

But on all days they are inquisitive and bright.

MR TECHNOLOGY

2011-11-08T06:41:00.000+10:30

In our day - sticker books were as technological as it got for a three year old!

In his day, a mobile phone is a regular everyday thing.

He knows how to make a call, receive a call, retrieve data and play games - and teach Aba all of same!

When did kids get so smart?

ABA AND HIS LITTLE BOYS

2011-11-08T06:34:00.000+10:30

Buttlerfly Kisses

2011-11-08T06:31:00.000+10:30

All while he's sleeping!

A Very Very Long Sweet Post

2011-10-25T22:02:00.001+10:30

It all started with little Bear wanting to bake a some cup cakes.

The the idea that some decorating might be fun too and out came the tools of the trade

She is a dab hand in the kitchen and can crack an egg with real style

More bits for the decorating

And on with the cup cake batter mix, carefully adding the flour

While the cupcakes were in the oven, it was time for a little practice

Time to do the washing up and soon enough the cupcakes came out of the oven to cool - COOL!

The mixing and colouring of the icing was the next thing to do

And then the artist goes to work

Soon to be joined by big sisters who joined in the fun

The beautiful results speak for themselves

Bear went for a beach theme - check out the little beach umbrella - this is her favourite

It was just the best fun afternoon with my girls :)

Happy Birthday Aba

2011-10-07T13:16:00.000+10:30

The birthday cake was a work of art - 4 artists actually! The chocolate slab cake was separated into quarters and Baie Tulle Rori and Nash all had a quarter each to decorate.

Armed with bowls of sweets or they set to work and after 'sampling' the sweets and considerable planning of the site

They came up with this wonderful masterpiece

Along with Adam's masterpiece - his first attempt at lasagne - it was scrummy!

Auntie Bev brought along a Choc Cherry cake to add to the party food mmmmmmmm :)

We were all caked out by the end of the night.

Happy Birthday Aba - We love you xxx

2011-10-03T09:47:00.004+10:30

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

Thank you Rick and Shelle for the most delicious cake xx

It was a good night with lots of fun, fruchocs and ......well the bottle says it all!

Spent number birthday number 55 in Sydney with Allan and beautiful grand daughter number 1

We visited Taronga Park Zoo

Caught up with family!

Climbed the bridge - AWESOME!

Walked the city and decided we like the old architecture much more than the new

Had the best best best ever French Toast at a Bavarian Cafe in the Rocks (it was the best!)

Watched the candy makers in action and bought some of their yummy creations

Went to the theatre to see the Jersey Boys in action - "Oh What A Night:"!

And on the last night we were treated to a wonderful fireworks display from our hotel window in Darling Harbour.

SO MEMORABLE

He Loves to Draw & Do Puzzles

2011-09-27T19:30:00.002+09:30

For a while there Nash had only one interest and that was his cars, or your car, or someone elses car or the cars on TV, or cars in magazines, or cars in the newspaper - or any car anywhere

He has expanded his horizons and realised that there are a few other fun things to do inside.

I'm not much of an artist and my drawing skills are less than basic - but Nash doesn't mind! He thinks they are great - thanks for the vote of confidence Nashboy!

But my skills in the jigsaw are are quite superior if I don't say so myself! Almost as good as Nash's!

But cars still come first!

Nash's Birthday Continued - To The Valley Lake

2011-09-25T09:43:00.002+09:30

On the weekend after Nash's birthday we had another gathering at the Valley Lake to celebrate with his little friends. It was such a lovely day. Starting with a swing from Aba.

A chance for the Grandpas to catch up and solve the problems of the world? Or maybe just ponder!

The beautiful blue Holden that Bron was still up decorating at 2am :)

Some brotherly birthday bonding!

A stroll lakeside to feed the big fat not hungry ducks and swans.

Then the entertainment for the afternoon started courtesty of little Judd who got just a bit too close to the edge and............

the rest is history - let the photos speak for themselves!

There was a change of clothes for Judd, but unfortunately Brody had to take off the wet shoes and socks and just roll up the jeans!

The boys just kept up with the bird feeding, generating very little interest from the birds, but they enjoyed the exercise anyway.

And finishing off with a kick-a-round with the footy.

Putting one of his presents together.

And a finally a goodby from little Lucy, who is not quite as little as she was several months ago.

NASH IS 3

2011-09-25T07:09:00.003+09:30

I can't believe three years can go so quickly - Here's our little man just after he entered the world.

Now we have celebrated his third birthday!

It's a belated post, but happy birthday Nashville :)

There were a couple of firm favourites with his presents- his Mitsubishi from DanDan

And his trampoline from the family - can't half tell from the grin on his face he was a happy boy!

It was dark, he was bouncing away merrily on his own while we had all gone back inside and we heard a little voice, "Sank you, sank you for my trampoline" Tooooo cute!

Bron put the finishing touches on the cup cakes...

While Chase slept through the whole party!

The Canadians sent "Kisses" from the other side of the world.

Time for the candles

A kiss from Mummy

And lots of love from your family.

X X X X X X

ALIVE AND ALMOST KICKING!!

2011-09-12T22:55:00.002+09:30

Yep, I'm still here and still upright - just :)

I've been sick, too sick to even blog. My shed burned down.

I've been to Sydney and climbed the bridge.

I'm home and back at work and feeling pretty good again.

My roots need a serious touch up.

I should never have my photo taken without make-up

My old besty gave me hugs and made me feel better.

Life's OK!

I'm on staff devotion this week and would like to share my devotional, working on a positive attitude!

Psalms 34:1 I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and saw that she had only three hairs on her head. "Great," she said, "I think I'll braid my hair today."

So she did, and had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. "Hmm," she said, "I guess I'll part my hair down the middle."

So she did, and had a wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only one hair left on her head.

"Wow," she said, "today I get to wear my hair in a pony tail." So she did, and had a wonderful, wonderful day.

The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that there wasn't a single hair on her head.

"Thank God!" she exclaimed. "I was running out of things to do with my hair!"

ATTITUDE is everything! Let's be grateful for the things God has given us and have a wonderful day!

The Wash Up From the Fire

2011-08-20T16:16:00.001+09:30

It has taken a while to get back to the blog and finish the story, but I think our stars are well out of alignment! I have been sick, Allan 'almost' as sick as me, one of the wheels caught fire on the boat trailer as they towed it to the boat yard, dad backed into my car the morning after and to top it all off the hard drive of my brand new notebook crashed. I picked it up this morning thanking God that all the data was retrieved and that included 8 months of photos!! I was backed up to the end of 2010 but had been lazy with this years photos -when will I learn my lesson!!!?

We had 32 firefighters attend from Port MacDonnell, Allendale East, Mt Gambier and Donovans just over the border. Half were on our side of the fire and the others were at the rear of the shed saving the house that was only a few metres from our shed and in the direct path of the flames. Lucky no damage at all, just some smoke in the house.

The fire boys were awesome

The freezer only took a few minutes to become totally destroyed. This time last year it was FULL of salmon ready for the fishing season - that would have been a rather large snack!!

The boat was pulled from side of the shed almost as soon as we were aware of the fire.

The photo below shows the total devestation of the fire. The only things that have been found and usable are the branding irons and a few pot bases.

The fire was no sooner out when the offers of help started pouring in, from food to physical help for Allan to get his gear done (all of his hard winter work of preparation, 100 pots fully rigged out were in the fire), a shed to house his gear and the list goes on ... THANK YOU.

The police stayed all night keeping an eye on things, the CFS returned around 6pm to a couple of spot fires that had reignited. We had no electicity to the house so we went to Aunty Bev and Uncle Bruces for the evening and were very spoilt with a wonderful meal and hot shower!

Next day the CFS, police, forensics and CSI from Adelaide attended and they were fabulous to deal with. I have a few pics still on my little camera to up load yet.

Thank you everyone who has sent messages, called in, offered help - it has been overwhelming :) The biggest of thanks to RB, without you it would have been so much more difficult to deal with - mmmwah.

Even though we have a mess to deal with and some shopping to do!! we are blessed.

Well, What's Been Happening in Your World Lately?

2011-08-12T11:48:00.000+09:30

Well, it has been a little hot way down south. This is the horrible scene from our shed burning down on Wednesday. Have you any idea what you have in your shed? If not, grab your camera and go find out, record for the hope that you may never have the need to use them.

I'm thinking we are mostly over the stress and shock. I was home from work sick, the three girls were also sick, so were all being sick together, when it happened, unfolding right in front of our eyes. There is not one item salvagable and the shed is totally destroyed, along with the freezer on the left of the photo. More pics to come when more time and inclination allows.

We are so very grateful for the support and assistance shown by family, friends and total strangers, thank you just doesn't seem enough.

During last week's devotion at school we had to choose a favourite Bible verse and combine it with some art - mine being John 14:27 starting with "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you......" This has seen me through some tough times not the least being the past couple of days. But last night around 2am when my coughing was keeping me and everyone else awake I headed to the couch to watch some early morning TV and came across Joyce Meyer's "Boot Camp" show - Enjoying Everyday Life and she spoke at some length about the gift of peace. Just the right time and the right place! Thanks Joyce :)

A Few More From Day's Gone By

2011-08-08T22:16:00.001+09:30

There are some real treasures in this lot. This one is the 'first' Almyra (my dad named his boat the same, Al for my Mum's older sister Alice and Myra for my mum).

On the boat my mum's beloved big brother Fred and his wife Gwen, who also happens to be my Dad's sister, along with my Grandad Hercules.

My Mum's family, in the only official and dressed up family portrait. This photo was in my home as we grew up - I wonder where the original has gone? Mum the little one int he middle.

My Dad's family, photo taken in Hobart Tasmania - before Dad was born though!
There are 5 of his siblings in this photo, he was number 6 of 7.

There are not too many of Carol, but his one is a cutie and a real find. Carol with cousin Leonie

The whole crew from the Rocks. We usually had similar photos taken at the beginning of each school year. Me front left in the grey uniform, sister Carol three along in the front and big sister Linda in the rather oversized beret in the back row! I wonder why they lined us up in front of a car?
Still trying to work out the little boy in the front - he looks like a ring in!

Little me at around six months of age by the look, don't really know for sure.

Little me with the dog and the chook.

Baby sister Carol - we couldn't be more different! Me with blonde curls and Carol with black curls!

Here we are again, the girls cousins: me, Linda, Leonie, Keryn, Carol and Rosemary.

The girls cousins in this photo, me, Linda, Leonie, Carol were a little closer in relationship - boy meets girl, boy introduces little sister to girl's little brother, they get married, they get us - get the picture :)

Below is my absolute favourite. I don't know the occasion, but I suspect it was a special one for most of the family to be 'dining' al fresco.

My Grandmother in the front, my Grandad to the right and my Mother next to him.

Just love it! I wish I could crawl into the photo and experience the occasion with them all.

"A Few Nice Shots of Chase"

2011-08-07T17:56:00.000+09:30

Bron sent these photos of Chase via email with the quote, "A few nice shots of Chase" Bron, they are a bit more than nice!

They are just so cute

And so sweet

And so gorgeous

And so beautiful!

Thanks for the 'nice' shots Bron xx

While Speaking of the Past........

2011-07-31T22:41:00.000+09:30

I came across these GEMS today!!! And I have to admit that one of these little cherubs is me and unfortunately it's not he cute one LOL!!

A slight improvement in the next pic - but still not the cute one.

At least the shoes are polished :)

What is Past is Past!

2011-07-31T16:25:00.001+09:30

When the boys where around 10 and 12 years old we took them to Ballarat and in particular to Sovereign Hill for a hands on history lesson with lots of fun included. Many years later we were able to take the girls for the same experience. Stepping into Sovereign Hill one of my first comments was - "Nothing has changed at all since we brought the boys here!" Umm, duh! Of course nothing has changed (except for a few personnel of course!) What is past is past and there's nothing that can change that - except enjoy the new experience with the girls.

We got to ride a stage coach

We were able to make a lesson about doing your best at school and making the most of your modern schooling opportunities - otherwise scooping poop might be the only job you are qualified for :)

Then we went to school (three times during our stay acutally). Writing with a nib and ink was an experience enjoyed by the girls. It was a blast from the past for me. It is how I learned to write - OMGOSH, how old does that make me feel!

There was a visit to the candle maker to colour some candles and a chance to pan for gold.

Then see the gold purified and in liquid form to make a large ingot - very impressive and great place to escape the chill.

Check out the price of gold today and what it would be worth if it was mined today.

14.52 BILLION DOLLARS

We saw the differenc in the way life was lived from the gentry on the up side of the hill to the Chinese settlement at the bottom of the hill.

We also learned how tough life was for all the miners, but especially the Chinese.

Peg doll making was a favourite

Though it was hard to beat the melodrama played out on stage. It was side splittingly funny!

The drama played out on the street was cute - the gun fire LOUD!!!! Even though we were warned and knew it was coming, it made us all jump each time the gun was fired!

The musicians were a treat, we watched them from the sweets shop and that was after we had a delicious morning tea at the New York Bakery - the BIGGEST and most delicious scones jam and cream. Not to mention the awesome pies from the girls favourite haunt - Hope Bakery.

I was not able to take photos at the sound and light show in the evening, but it was quite spectacular and a very enlightening history lesson - AND JOLLY COLD to boot.

"Not Go Under Daddy!!"

2011-07-18T13:09:00.003+09:30

Tried several times to upload a little video of Nash during his swimming lessons with no success, so I have reverted to the photos that still tell the same story.

Sitting on the edge Nash says, "I not go under Daddy!" "No Nash, not go under" says Daddy. Inevitably Nash does go under and comes up very proud of himself for 'going under'!

"Not Go Under Daddy!"

35 YEARS WITHOUT MY MUM

2011-07-10T12:13:00.002+09:30

Mum died 35 years ago, suddenly and tragically for us all, at the age of 45.

If I could just change one thing in my life, if I could turn back time - it would be to have my mum. Mum has been gone longer than I had her in my life, but her influence has been and is still with me.

From a very impoverished start to life, and the youngest of six siblings she worked hard to provide for her own. I still remember the many stories she often told of her years growing up with her brothers and sister by the sea at Carpenters Rocks. Living in a house made of scrap pine, some stone and lined with newspapers to keep the cold out!

Alice, Frederick, John, Powis, Robert, James and baby Myra around 3 years old we think

I think she is about 10 or 11 years old in this photo, around the same age as her great granddaughter Baie.

Teenage years.

On the beach (with the legs and shape she didn't pass on!!)

On the rocks at Bungalow Bay

At the Lakes with only sister and big sister Alice and the mother she adored - my Nanny Bessie Muriel.

A photo of Mum and Dad that I found and tried to restore, not very successfully! I think it's the one that Dad carried in his wallet for years.

LITTLE LIVVY LOU LOU

2011-07-09T22:58:00.002+09:30

A short but fun visit to the Kenchos and a catch up with little Liv.

What a sweetie

She kept us entertained

And is the apple of Dave and Maree's eye!

Now that you are back in Adelaide guys, hopefully see you a lot more.

A DAY IN THE BEAUTIFUL BAROSSA

2011-07-02T20:48:00.002+09:30

An invitation to Auntie Valmai and Uncle Ian's 65th wedding anniversary meant a trip to cousin Jenny's place in the Barossa Valley.

It also meant a fire in the yard

And a damper for lunch

The best spot for the boys to have a beer and catch up on the goss!

The kelpie dog just puts the finsihing touch on a beautiful Aussie scene.

Ian had decided to use a different camp oven that his usual, so Jen was a bit concerned about the end result of the damper.

It was a tad 'over done' on top, but when that was cut away, we were treated to a delicious damper with Jenny's home made jams.

Not to mention the yummy very hot pot of soup.

The table was set with 3 separate hand crocheted cloths, family heirlooms on the Weston side - I'm lucky enough to have one too.

Jenny had organised and catered for the whole meal and it was scrumtious, including the diamond shaped cake that was a caramel mud cake!

Jen is prone to prose and didn't disapoint with a very moving and loving poem written especially for her precious Mum and Dad. This was followed by equally moving and sometimes amusing speeches/toasts by a close friend and Uncle Ian himself who told us how they met, thier couting days, proposal and life together.

Here are a few scenes from the farm

As Aussie as it can come!

Finishing off with a wonderful painting done by Ian and Jenny's granddaughter Ebony, the likeness to Pa is close to perfect!

The love this couple and their family show towards each other is inspirational, I wish it could be bottled and handed around. xxxx

AT LAST

2011-06-30T21:13:00.001+09:30

It has been so frustrating but finally I have been able to upload the rest of Chase's photos!

This one below, my favourite (for now ! ) Love those cutie patootie lips!

JUST THE ONE

2011-06-29T22:04:00.000+09:30

Sorry folks, having trouble with my server and could only load one pic - but what a cutie it is :)

FAMILY OF FOUR

2011-06-28T21:34:00.002+09:30

Adorable

Proud

Sweet

Contented

and very very cute!

FROM CHASE'S FIRST PHOTO SHOOT

2011-06-28T07:27:00.003+09:30

BEIBER AND CHASE

2011-06-28T07:25:00.000+09:30

Just had to share the Beiber look Nash was sporting!

Nash is a loving little brother

I'm sure Chase will get used to Nash's face just centimetres from his! His nose close enough that he thinks it's a nipple and goes for the grab!

A NEW BATCH OF PICS COMING TO A COMPUTER SCREEN NEAR YOU

2011-06-26T22:23:00.002+09:30

Ho Hum Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaawn!! Well, some of us are excited!