Shabby Chook

The BIG 7 0

2012-01-22T02:59:00.000-08:00

I just had to tell you...

2012-01-13T23:30:00.000-08:00

It's been a dull old day - not at all like summer! Temperature has barely reached 20C (average for this time of year around 26/27C). For a long time I had promised myself I would sort out all of my embroidery threads and 'catalogue' them. Today was a great day to do it.

As I was sitting at my kitchen table sorting and winding and labelling I heard a bit of a commotion outside. Got up to look and saw the funniest antics I've seen in a long time - just had to tell you!

Over the past week or so there's been a family of magpie birds around the yard. Mum and possibly Dad - with 3 big babies. I say big because they look big - but they're still getting food from Mum as well as picking around the garden.

Three youngsters were having a total scrap! I got my camera and got a few shots! They were more like puppies or kittens than birds. I was laughing to myself so hard!

One of them found an old corn husk in the compost heap and was playing with it like a dog would a bone. Sibling arrives on the scene and tries to take it away. No way, Jose! First baby runs quickly to my laundry trolley and hops up into the peg basket. Deposits the husk in and picks up a red peg. All the while the other two siblings are trying their best to antagonise and get up to the corn husk. Eventually when the three of them were back on terra firma, another little tussle ensued. Biting each other's tails, rolling on backs, pecking, pecking! Oh it was such a delight to watch!

I stood there at the kitchen window and hubby joined me - thoroughly entertaining! Eventually the scuffle broke up and they continued their meandering around the garden. I looked out a little while later as it seemed quiet and one of the babies had fallen asleep on the fence. So cute!

Love all of God's creatures!

Anyway I did manage to get all of the floss sorted and even ended up with a bag of duplicates. Felt satisfied that the job that I'd put off for so long was done.

Blessings!

PS (sorry about the spacing of the photos. I don't seem to be able to do anything about it this time)

New Years resolutions?

2012-01-01T01:59:00.000-08:00

What better New Years resolution could we make - Paul's words say it all!

Philippians 3:12-14
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ¹³Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Blessings on this first day of 2012 dear friends!

Up in the middle of the night!

2011-12-30T04:55:00.000-08:00

Well, it's almost the middle of the night here - just 20 minutes before midnight. Have had a couple of those nights where I haven't been able to get to sleep - or in the case last night, slept for about 30 minutes then was wide awake for hours. Managed to drop off about 4am then slept late till nearly 8. I guess when this happens, one tends to just try too hard at getting to sleep - then it never seems to happen.

Well I think the last couple of days my mind has been overly active - at least more than usual - and I was kind of 'wound up' and things were going through my head at a real rate of knots.

Yesterday I spent the day on the computer trying to sort out some information for DIL's family tree. I did get quite a bit done though for which I was pleased. Today the morning was fairly quiet with watering the garden and grocery shopping but after lunch DH and I decided to go to the movies. I had library books to return as well so we got seat bookings online to go to "The Iron Lady" which I've been wanting to see since I heard it was being released. I really enjoyed it - and Meryl Streep's acting was superb as one would expect. I love her movies - she is so skilled. We talked about the movie later in the day, and about Margaret Thatcher, where she lives now and how old she is and of course my mind stayed pretty well active until bedtime. But despite doing a little reading to relax, sleep has evaded me again tonight.

So after a warm drink I'm planning to head back to bed and hope I can drift off to sleep this time.

Tomorrow is the last day of 2011. It's hard to believe, the last week has just zipped by so quickly - I guess that's what happens when DH is home from work between Christmas and New Year break. Looking forward to seeing the wonderful fireworks display tomorrow night to mark the end of the year and the beginning of 2012. Hopefully will stay up and see the 9pm show but it's debatable whether I last the distance for the midnight extravaganza. We won't be heading off into the city to see it live - it's pretty good to watch on the television! Sydney is well renowned throughout the world for its New Year's Eve fireworks display and I have no doubt tomorrow night's will live up to expectations.

Happy New Year everyone - and blessings in abundance through 2012!

Sydney Opera House 2007

Long time catch-up

2011-12-26T16:13:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day is over! It seems such a long time in preparation then so quickly, food is eaten, gifts are opened and it's clean-up time. And we'll do it all again next year I'm sure. We will have forgotten all of the negative things about Christmas and the lead up to it, but in our hearts I believe we can remember the most positive aspect of Christmas for the whole of the year.

Yes, the fact that Jesus was born, died at Calvary and rose again is an amazing thing - the way it all happened and was planned by God the Father is something our finite minds find difficult to grasp and hold - but the most amazing thing of all I think, is that God loved us all so much that he not only planned it immaculately, but carried it out - just so that we have the opportunity of eternity with Him. Oh how I long for that time!

Happy Christmas dear friends and a bright and wonderful 2012.

Blessings!

Carving the turkey

E with new camera

L with new camera (and a sticky mouth)

C, C, L and E waiting for the turkey!

Convicts and bonnets

2011-10-16T16:08:00.000-07:00

The craft group I belong to are making Convict Bonnets as part of a living sculpture called "Roses from the Heart".

Conceptual artist and Artist in Residence at the Cascades Female Factory, Hobart, Tasmania and Christina Henri have designed this as a tribute to the convict women of Australia.

The "Roses from the Heart" project aims to have 25,566 bonnets made, one for every woman transported to Australia between 1788 and 1846 when tranportation ceased. To date about 20,500 have been collected from all over the world. Many of the bonnets already made have been adorned with a convict woman's name, the ship in which she arrived and the date of arrival.

This link will give you more information.

http://www.christinahenri.com.au/index.php?/ongoing/roses-from-the-heart/

There are 3 convicts in our family from my husband's side (must have been a bad lot! LOL) however they were all male so to honour a convict woman on my bonnet I have chosen a person with the same surname. She was Elizabeth Double who was sentenced to transportation on 14 January 1818 and sailed in the "Maria" to Sydney in NSW. She was in Sydney until 1820 when she was sent to Tasmania and shipped on the "Princess Charlotte" to Hobart.

It's been a really interesting exercise for me to check out not only this woman but the three rellies who were sentenced two years apart - Joseph in 1842, Edward in 1844 and John in 1846. Although from the same family name of 'Double's', none were directly related however Edward was a nephew of Joseph.

It's hard to imagine what life must have been like in those days - so hard - most of the crimes punishable by transportation then, would not even rate a mention today - although one of the above was charged and sentenced for arson - burning down a barn of hay!

Some of the records make interesting reading!

Blessings!

Baby birds and birthdays

2011-10-08T01:53:00.000-07:00

I rushed out to rescue the washing from the clothes line - it certainly wasn't dry, but too dry to get wet in the rain that was threatening. I was casually watching out the kitchen window at the rain as it absolutely hosed down and to my great surprise I saw a brilliant flash of fire then smoke rising from behind the trees not far from our back fence. Almost instantaneously our power went off. The lightning must have hit a transformer supplying electricity to our area. At a guess I'd say a good inch and a half of rain fell in the next hour. Absolutely pelted down!

The power was restored a couple of hours later. At least there was enough light by sitting close to the window, to read for that length of time.

But no matter what the weather, baby birds continue to feed, and birthday parties happen. For the past three days, Mr and Mrs Scaly Breasted Lorikeet have brought baby SBL to my window. I simply love their huge black baby eyes as they stumble around the tray trying to make out what they are supposed to do with this stuff that mum and dad seem to be wolfing down their throats. It hasn't taken long and he/she has gotten the idea of what to do, but despite that still needs some from mum as well. It is amazing thing to watch at such close range!

And parties! Grandson E had his today to celebrate his 8th birthday. Daughter had asked me to make the cake so after trying to decide how to decorate it, finished up with a 'Mario' theme since the kids at the moment are all crazy for DS and Wii games featuring this cute character. The water is really too cold at this time of the year but the new pool has a heater installed and after 12 hours switched on overnight, the kids were able to swim and play in 30C warmth! A bit chilly getting out though!

The storm has now gone and the skies are clear-ish but tomorrow we are promised from the weather bureau a bit more of the same - and rain throughout the coming week. At least we won't need to water the garden or top up the pool!

Blessings!

It's Monday!

2011-10-02T16:10:00.000-07:00

Monday - public holiday - Labour Day! Has been a kind of 'nothing' weekend I guess - weather foul, wet, windy, cold - first time I can ever remember having the fire going in October!!

Despite the weather our Mr & Mrs Butcher Bird are still waiting each morning for a hand-out! I hope they will bring their offspring to visit soon - they must be about to fly the nest I would guess.

Blessings!

Floriade 2011

2011-09-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Weather was not great! From warm Spring temperatures a few days before, it had zoomed backward to winter - cold - windy - rainy. Still we ventured out into it, after all this is what we'd come for - to experience Floriade 2011, an annual Spring event in our Capital, Canberra.

We had been fortunate indeed to secure an overnight accommodation booking so our first port of call on arrival in Canberra was to check the whereabouts and get keys and address of our apartment. We were surprised and delighted to find it was in a security block, and very new. Beautifully appointed close to all tourist attractions Canberra offers, it was all we could have hoped for. After surfing the net for over an hour and almost giving up hope of finding anything under $400 per night available, this was amazing!

Wrapped up in winter woollies and armed with camera we joined the thousands of people all heading for Commonwealth Park. It didn't disappoint. The colours, sights, smells were all we'd imagined. For the most part we stayed dry - the one huge downpour struck just as we entered a huge marquee where we sat and enjoyed a cooking demonstration for the time it took for the rain to stop. Fortuitous indeed!

So many photos taken, which to choose? Just a few of the amazing colours we saw!

Blessings!

Would an anaesthetic do that?

2011-09-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm just looking for an excuse to blame for my slackness! I'm doing well in terms of recovery and rehabilitation - just lacking in things to say.

Have had a couple of nice outings in the last week or so however my life at present is still rather mundane.

We travelled to the city to join with about 60 others to help a very 'young in heart and mind' 80year old celebrate her birthday. It was a 'high tea' event but held at 1pm which I guess was more like a luncheon. We gathered in a big city hotel which was all very 'swish' and spent a couple of hours mingling and nibbling with her, her rellies and friends. It was a very happy time and her daughter was so pleased it had turned out so well. It had taken her 18 months to actually persuade her mum to have the celebration. 'Do you know people treat you differently when they know you're old' was her comment. Now if ever an elderly lady didn't look her age it is this one! So I'm sure that no-one will be treating her any differently now that they know her real age!

The Bible Study I attend on a Tuesday is run from the local Anglican church (not my regular worship place) and is held during each 4 school terms. Towards the end of each term, we forgo our study on one morning and join at a garden centre which isn't too far away, for a social get together and morning tea. It's really nice to just chat. This morning was our last day until after the school holidays are over.

Have started making some Christmas cards too. On our recent trip to Perth our niece showed me a really nice design for a card which opens up like a shallow box. I'm doing some to give as gifts this Christmas and will place a small remembrance inside. Once I have some finished I'll get a photo up. After I'd put my camera up on the shelf last week, it fell out and onto the floor. I did check it and it seems OK but I'll have to really give it a good run soon and make sure it hasn't been damaged. Fortunately the lens was locked!

Many blessings!

It's Monday

2011-09-11T16:43:00.000-07:00

Despite the inclement weekend weather, the last couple of days have been good. On Saturday morning we attended a Spring Fair at a local retirement village - our real motivation was to view one of their units currently for sale. Although we feel we are probably not quite ready for village living, we are trying to think ahead to get an idea of what it might be like, what the accommodations are like, what charges we'd be up for etc. Although lovely and in beautifully set out grounds with so many facilities, the actual unit was very tiny. Two reasonably sized bedrooms, small living area and two huge bathrooms. We felt the bathroom situation was rather overkill however it may be that they were planned with wheelchairs in mind. We'll keep looking over the next few months to get a feel of values but truthfully, I'm not sure that kind of living is for me - just yet. Ideal for a single person probably.

Enjoyed getting out to our worship service on Sunday morning - my first time since surgery.

Put the fire on both Saturday and Sunday afternoons as temps still quite chilly. This is the first September ever I can remember being cold enough for fires. Global warming eh?

This morning's U S Open win for Aussie Sam Stosur was a great feat - today was just her day! Shame about her oponent losing her cool at one point and would certainly not go down as good sportsmanship in the eyes of many. Good for Sam to overcome when her emotions might have easily over-ridden her calmness.

Our Butcher birds are back - cheeky as ever! Normally a shy and fairly elusive bird, they perch themselves on the pool fence just outside the back door waiting for the ground beef I throw out for them. They take the morsel in their beak and fly off to the next which I've discovered is in a neighbours high tree. I look forward again to the time when they will bring their babies to visit.

Have a blessed day!

Back to wheels

2011-09-07T17:07:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy - I'm allowed to drive again! No, I didn't lose my licence to drive but had to have a break after my surgery however I've now been cleared to get back behind the wheel and my first 'outing' today is to the public library to get more reading material.

I'm feeling really good and although I still have to be very careful and cautious of what I do - no lifting, twisting etc - I'm doing well and so grateful for such a terrific recovery. I am confident that if I 'stick to the rules' I'll be 'up and at it' in no time at all. Of course I'm not going to be silly about those things like vacuuming and putting washing on the line at present - especially when DH is such a darling and so willing to do it for me!

Thanks for all your good wishes dear friends!

Blessings!

Fathers Day Downunder

2011-09-03T23:17:00.000-07:00

It has been a perfect Spring day! Temperature warm and sunshine. Beautiful! What has made it more special is that today in Oz is 'Father's Day'!

Talk about being waited on - a visit at lunch time by son and DIL with gifts (gold pass for both of us to the cinema) plus a beautiful roast dinner for us each for tonight. We were just finishing up lunch with them - home made chicken and vegetable soup which DH made yesterday, when in came daughter, SIL and two grandboys. More Fathers Day wishes and chocolate cake to celebrate.

We are so grateful for such a loving and caring family. Thank you Lord!

Blessings!

Took a little wander this morning

2011-09-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

I'm getting stronger each day. Took a visit to the library today - my book needed returning and I need some extra reading material. DH drove me and did the shopping while I mooched. Was good to get out of the house for a little while.

Thanks to those of you who have cheered me with your kind comments.

Blessings!

I'm so glad to be home

2011-08-31T03:19:00.000-07:00

The surgery's over and I'm back home. I'm so pleased everything seems to have gone extremely well and the surgeon was happy with what he did. I'll have a better idea what that actually was when I see him for my post op appointment in a few weeks.

Meantime I have a wonderful (DH) nurse and cook looking after me and all I have to do is now slowly get back to normalcy.

Thank you Lord for a (so far) great recovery.

Blessings!

A legitimate excuse

2011-08-22T03:18:00.000-07:00

I'll be missing for a little while and since only just returning you'll be wondering why in fact I'm 'off line' again. Tomorrow I enter hospital for my spinal fusion surgery so I'll literally be 'on my back' for a little while. Hospitalisation probably about 5 days then at home to slowly get back to 'better than ever'!

I'm a little apprehensive about the procedure - although I've had this kind of surgery twice before, it doesn't alter the fact that it is surgery after all and quite a long one at that (3 hours). I know though, that my Heavenly Father has everything in His control so from that point of view I am totally confident that I'm in His hands and He will be guiding all that happens in that theatre tomorrow.

So although I'll be able to look in on my friends in a week or so, it'll be a bit longer than that before I'm up to actually writing anything here.

Take care my blogger friends - blessings!

Just another showery day

2011-08-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was so beautiful - sunny with a cool breeze. Today is one of those misty, rainy kinds of day - snuggle up by the fire kind of day. Four or five daffodils are poking their heads up - Spring definitely is just around the corner.

Saw the funniest thing this morning (at least I thought it was funny)! In the lounge room opening up the venetian blinds to the dullness of the day when up the driveway strode a duck. Now there was once when a pair of ducks flew in to our back yard and promptly dunked in the pool - salt water pool that is. Anyway it was a rainy sort of day then, and they proceeded to peck around the grass looking for the odd grub before they winged their way again to who knows where. As far as I know, the nearest place to us where ducks may congregate is around 4 kilometers. Maybe this lone one came from there - perhaps on its way to another watering hole.

Anyway I digress! From the waddling position on the driveway it suddenly lurched into upward flight and perched on a large branch on our huge gum tree. There it sat, peering around in all directions. I wonder if it was looking for a mate maybe lost along the way to who knows where. Anyway I left it to its own devices in that high perch - can't imagine it would have stayed long with so many native birds ~~invading~~ using the tree for their own romancing.

Got a lovely surprise yesterday in the mail - a beautiful 'Welcoming Angel' (Lordi) gift from our Texan DIL - a thankyou after their stay with us recently. Entirely unexpected and appreciated! Thank you so much R - you are a treasure!

What to do today? A few things cross my mind - grocery shopping (now out of spuds), card making (got some new cardstock yesterday), laundry (no - out of the question today with the sprinkling happening), I'm sure I'll think of something!

Have a wonderful Friday with blessings!

I was just thinking...

2011-08-14T00:35:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking... do they kick you out of blogger if you don't blog enough? 'They' would have every good reason to do that to me if my recent non appearance had anything to do with it. Over 8 weeks since I was here and you know when I think about it I really don't have a very good excuse.

Well, l must say our USA family (the Texas Connection) did come stay for over 4 weeks and in that time we drove to the Gold Coast in Queensland and spent 10 days in a lovely resort. There were about 16 of us all told as we had planned it to be a family reunion holiday and we had such a great time. It was so very sad to see the family leave for their home - this time with no plans in place to go visit - that was an eerie feeling not knowing when we might see them again.

During that time DH has finished work, had a few weeks break, then a few weeks working two mornings a week, then finally 2 weeks ago after being offered another job, began working full time again. Quite a whirlwind of emotions for him considering he is now past the official retirement age by a few years.

We have purchased another car to enable him to take one for work transport. We were'nt looking for a hybrid but came out of the dealership with a Toyota Prius. It's 2 years old but like brand new - beautiful to drive and so quiet - so far is proving to be quite economical as well.

Over the past months my lower back has been acting up again and is now at the stage where I require more surgery. Have been seeing my Professor neurosurgeon over the last 3 or so months and last week we made the decision to have an extension to the fusion in my spine which was done in May 2 years ago. The surgery will take place on 23rd August and I'm hopeful it will relieve the pain.

It's been quite a cold winter and we've been so grateful for the lovely cosy fire. Mostly we use it for most of August but we're hoping by September we can clean it out and not use it again until next winter. One can never tell in Sydney, already a couple of weeks ago we had a few days of 23/24C degrees - was a bit of a rude awakening to go back to 17C or so which it has remained.

Some of our Spring bulbs have flower buds emerging and I'm looking forward to seeing the cheerful yellow daffodils - a sure sign that winter is almost over.

Blessings!

Four brothers and their wives

Beach fishing sunrise Currumbin Beach

Waves

Family Group

Funny that!

2011-06-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

A niece sent this to me in an email and I thought it worthy of passing on - I love it!

Ode to English Plurals

We'll begin with a box, and the plural is boxes,
But the plural of ox becomes oxen, not oxes.
One fowl is a goose, but two are called geese,
Yet the plural of moose should never be meese.
You may find a lone mouse or a nest full of mice,
Yet the plural of house is houses, not hice.
If the plural of man is always called men,
Why shouldn't the plural of pan be called pen?
If I speak of my foot and show you my feet,
And I give you a boot, would a pair be called beet?
If one is a tooth and a whole set are teeth,
Why shouldn't the plural of booth be called beeth?

Then one may be that, and three would be those,
Yet hat in the plural would never be hose,
And the plural of cat is cats, not cose.
We speak of a brother and also of brethren,
But though we say mother, we never say methren.
Then the masculine pronouns are he, his and him,
But imagine the feminine: she, shis and shim!
Let's face it - English is a crazy language.

There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger;
neither apple nor pine in pineapple.
English muffins weren't invented in England.
We take English for granted, but if we explore its paradoxes,
we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square,
and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig. And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing,
grocers don't groce and hammers don't ham?

Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend.
If you have a bunch of odds and ends and
get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it?
If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught?
If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat?
Sometimes I think all the folks who grew up speaking English
should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane.

In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?
We ship by truck but send cargo by ship.
We have noses that run and feet that smell.
We park in a driveway and drive in a parkway.
And how can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same,
while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?
You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language
in which your house can burn up as it burns down,
in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and
in which an alarm goes off by going on.

A Language for the Verbally Insane

Let’s face it—English is a crazy language. There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren’t invented in England. We take English for granted, but if we explore its paradoxes, we find that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square, and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don’t fing, grocers don’t groce and hammers don’t ham? Doesn’t it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend. If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it?

If teachers taught, why didn’t preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? Sometimes I think all the folks who grew up speaking English should be committed to an asylum for the verbally insane.

In what other language do people recite at a play and play at a recital? We ship by truck but send cargo by ship. We have noses that run and feet that smell. We park in a driveway and drive in a parkway. And how can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and in which an alarm goes off by going on.

And in closing, if Father is Pop, how come Mother's not Mop?

by Eugenie A. Nidia
It seems that it first appeared in the EFITA Newsletter in January 2006...
The original title is “Pluralities.”

Photography excursion

2011-05-23T15:38:00.000-07:00

I recently joined a local service club for ~~those who are considered geriatric~~ those who are over the age of 55. One of the benefits of being a member of this particular club is being able to join any of the many groups which have been formed and which members coordinate - one such group being photography.

Yesterday I joined with some of them and armed with our variety of cameras, visited a local park. It had rained overnight and the prospects of good weather didn't look promising but the sun began to shine eventually and although it was quite windy, the morning proved to be most enjoyable. My attempts at photography are purely amateurish however I do enjoy using my camera and even though many shots are deleted on editing, here are a few I saved. The park offered so much variety and was divided into gardens of international interest including Italian, English, American, Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, Australian.

Just had to show these

2011-05-20T03:28:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day gift 2011 - Asiatic Lilies

Wedding Anniversary flowers 19 May

I feel truly blessed!

Cross stitch, tomatoes and airplanes

2011-05-18T16:51:00.000-07:00

Over a month has passed since my last entry! I'm feeling rather sad that I've let so much time elapse - it seems a lot has happened in that time and yet when I try to remember what, I find it difficult to recall. I know some of it was taken up with school holidays and child minding, another 10 days was spent in Auckland visiting my mum who was discharged from hospital after 3 months and spinal surgery - other days I just felt lethargic and unable to focus on too much. A long awaited visit to my back specialist has revealed from another scan that I'm in strife with my spine again. 2 years ago I underwent a spinal fusion and at that time felt sure that would be the answer however that has not proved to be the case and I now have to face the fact that more spinal surgery (to add to the fusion already in place) is most likely. To check whether the pain was originating from the nerve root, I had a cortisone injection into the 'spot' and that has brought relief from the pain. I expect it should last about 10 weeks - another appointment to the back specialist will sort out what to consider as next on the treatment list.

I've been taking a rest from my Daisy Girl cross stitch recently as the small count makes for hard work on my eyes but I've done a little on a little 'sale' item I picked up and rather liked.

Today is our 49th wedding anniversary (date). I can hardly credit that many years have passed. God has been good!

The 'winter' tomatoes I planted are doing very well and now have fruit on each plant. Need a bit more sun to ripen them. The little black cherry has produced the most fruit and I suspect we will have a real 'glut' once they all begin to ripen at once - the mini cabbages and spinach are doing well too but the brussels sprouts have no sign of 'sprouts' as yet. The first time I have attempted them so not sure what to expect. I think the fact that huge toadstools have decided to crop in the same bed over the past few weeks may have something to do with that - I've been assured they shouldn't have any effect but I'm not sure. I think the spores may have come in on a summer tomato plant I put into the same area during November. Apparently the fungi makes good compost so will wait a few more weeks then dig them all in and hope there's no more sign of them disrupting spring seedlings.

Our visit to Auckland went well in that I was able to visit with mum each day. The family feel she would really be better now in assisted living however she has to make that decision for herself. She is very slow in movement and has people coming in to give her assistance a couple of times a week. She has recovered from the spinal surgery but it has taken a toll on her general health as one would expect at 92 years of age! Beautiful view of Sydney harbour on our way home - the pilot gave us a wonderful view of the city as we circled towards our landing.

Our weather is now cold and the lovely heat from the fire is so comforting.

We are so looking forward to the visit of our family from Texas at the beginning of June and will be gathering together in a family reunion on the Gold Coast while they are here. Another reason to be grateful for the good effects of that cortisone injection!

Blessings dear friends!

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

2011-04-15T18:03:00.000-07:00

I suppose my excuse for not writing here for so long is probably one many could use at this time of the year, however it is legitimate! I simply have not been feeling 100%.

A month ago E7 came down with a roaring viral infection and was home from school for more than a week. Eventually after doctors appointments and chest X-Ray, pneumonia was suspected however an antibiotic saved the day for him eventually. For 3 days of that week grandmother was on child minding duty. The following few days saw both daughter and grandmother and then L5 succumb to the same infection. All of us battling through then eventually getting antibiotics when mine turned to bronchitis and L5's to pneumonia. I managed to struggle through the child minding duty again for the following week while daughter managed to make it to work.

Coming right on top of that, school holidays commenced - 2 more weeks of child minding - I have to say that I am relieved that one week is now over and because of Easter next weekend, there will only be 3 days next week. I'm getting too old for two very active and rambunctious but very normal little boys!

To top this off, I have been having problems with my lower back. This has been niggling since before Christmas but over the past few weeks has steadily become worse. I do have a referral to see my specialist, have had a new CT scan done and am awaiting his office to phone me for an appointment. He is difficult to get to see at times so I may have to be waiting for a while longer. Meanwhile standing and walking is becoming quite aggravating.

Having been in hospital for nearly 3 months, Mum is finally being discharged next week. My brother has been working through all the govt processes and trying to find a vacancy in a reputable assisted living facility. We thought it was pretty much signed and sealed however in the past few days, Mum has decided against that option and is planning to return home to her independent living unit. Her consultant feels her progress may be delayed if she were to move into assisted living when she really didn't want that. It means the pressure will be on both myself (from a distance, certainly) and my brother, to make sure she is OK by herself. She will have assistance on a daily basis provided by the hospital for a while so we will just have to see how things go - time will tell! She will be 92 in a couple of weeks time and DH and I are making the trip to see her and make sure all is OK when she goes home. I'm sure she still thinks my brother and I are in our 30's - I had to mention to her recently that at nearing 70, we will soon have to be thinking of assisted living facilities ourselves!

Our weather is cooling off substantially although this past week has been sunny. Today is simply pouring with rain - a lovely Saturday to stay indoors, make soup and generally have a lazy day to catch up with myself.

With blessings to all of you my dear reader friends!

E7 & L5 after feeding the ducks yesterday

Why is it?

2011-03-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Why is it that simply days can go by and I can't think of a single thing to write - despite all that, life has been busy. Take these past few days for instance - grandson E7 started off the week with a cough which has gradually gotten worse. No school but mum still had to get off to work - grandma to the rescue - sitting with the little fella while he coughed his tummy sore! Friday came and another doctor appt plus Xray - possible pneumonia! Second doctor appt on Friday revealed Xray results not pneumonia but chest infection. Prescribed anti-biotic and hopefully might be well enough for school on Monday.

Easter is not far away - daughter pleads "can you make E7 an Easter hat for the school parade?" Oh boy I think - what next? "Mum, you know you could do it so much better than me" - oh well, what's one more thing to line up? Made a start on it this morning but will reserve the photo till it's finished.

Hasn't rained for weeks - since beginning of January - did the washing this morning to hang on the line - including bed linen etc - now pouring with rain! Oh well - have hung some on the clothes airer - the rest can stay in the laundry basket until tomorrow to see if the weather takes a turn for the better.

Garden is looking OK and carrots and mini cabbage are doing well. I've erected a little netting cage over the top of them trying to keep the butterflies from laying their little eggs and caterpillars chomping the beautifully tender green leaves. It seems to be working so far. Put in some more purple runner beans a couple of weeks ago and they're up about 6 feet so far with flower buds just appearing. I hope the weather stays warm enough for them to fruit. The 'winter' tomatoes are all doing well - the Giant Tree Tomato has its first flowers open - boy are they big for tomatoes! Can't wait to see the fruit once it starts. Have taken 7 pumpkins from the vine and one still left hanging. They're looking good too so shouldn't have to buy any for a while. Cut the first one when I cooked roast lamb the other night. They could take a little more ripening but nice and sweet.

Picked up a poor specimen of a begonia at the plant nursery a few weeks ago - reduced down in price. It seemed to have had far too much water. Let it dry right out and now blooming a beautiful red!

Had a visit yesterday from a baby kookaburra. We hear them occasionally in our many trees around the yard but don't often see them. This cutie perched himself in the old dead wattle tree over the back fence - he didn't seem in the least perturbed when I got as close as I could to take a shot at him - photo that is of course!

A couple of birthdays in the family in the past two weeks and a wedding anniversary - made cards to give and was pleased with the frangipani theme I used for E19.

Booked our flights to go see Mum at Easter time. She's still in the hospital and hopefully is rehabilitating reasonably. For a couple of weeks after her surgery we were extremely concerned about her condition but she did 'turn the corner' and is now back in the 'older people's ward' recuperating. Hoping that there will be some kind of assessment by Easter regarding her ability to go back to her apartment and live independently. If not, then assisted living may need to be an option.

Have had contact from another second cousin in the United Kingdom who we'd never heard of before - I am amazed that in the last few months no less than four distant rellies have made contact. Genealogy is certainly a very popular pastime. It is so good hearing from these people and being able to link extended families together.

All for now - blessings!

Baby Kookaburra

Pretty red begonia

Birthday card for E19

Giant tree tomato plant with basil seedlings

This morning it is Autumn

2011-03-01T14:01:00.000-08:00

Ah that wonderfully fresh air with a touch of coolness - I feel it on my feet as I sit here at the computer with the back door open. While the temperature today is predicted to be 26C, this morning's coolness is so refreshing. Autumn is my favourite season of the year! The only downside to it is the termination of summer daylight savings time. But that won't happen for another few weeks yet - but the nights are drawing in quickly now. Once the clocks are put back the early mornings will be so much darker - harder to get out of bed.

My poor Mum is back in hospital again. She's been there now more than 5 weeks - at first investigative tests and scans being done to get to the bottom of her severe pain - it seems she has the same problems I have had over the past few years - spinal nerves being caught and sending pain down her legs. A decision by medical staff was made to do a decompressive laminectomy on her lower spine and release the nerves causing the problem. That was done last Friday. Her recovery is being hampered at present by a very low blood iron level so she is being given units of blood through transfusion. We are hoping that may help her mental confusion once the iron level is normalised. Its fortunate that son CM has been in NZ on business for 10 days and weekends was able to make visits to the hospital. Now phone calls to the hospital ward to check on her progress and talk with her are the order of the day. Her birthday is in May and she'll be 92 - her recovery and rehabilitation may be a long tough road we're thinking, especially since this is the second major surgery she's undergone in 6 months. Can only leave her in our Maker's hands, trusting that He knows what is best for her.

Even though the grandies are now back at school, I am being kept fairly busy. This week however is much less so for which I'm grateful. Had the lounge room windows measured last week for new blinds - they will take about 4 weeks to make. Looking forward to them being fitted. Meantime I've been washing curtains and windows, and cleaning out in the garage - getting rid of stuff that's been accumulated for a number of years. I'm not finished in there yet but a long way to being able to find things again! LOL

Have planted out some tomato seedlings which were a freebie on a gardening mag in January. These are specifically grown in cool weather as opposed to summer cropping so will be interesting to see how they do. There were four varieties, two the little truss cherry type, one 'normal' and one Giant Tree Tomato which apparently yields fruit up to 500 grams each. That should be interesting! Also tried a couple of rows of carrots and they have now been transplanted into 4 or 5 rows - not sure how they will be now the weather is cooling. I think they do better in a warmer spring/summer season. Planted out a few mini cabbages and some spinach along with a final crop of purple runner beans. Have had to spread bird netting over them all as a new neighbour's cat has decided our yard to be it's bathroom area - spraying citronella oil around helps but this guys' pretty determined!

All for now - blessings!

Black Cherry tomato

Giant tree tomato (with tiny basil seedlings alongside

This made the hairs on my neck stand up!

2011-02-18T00:11:00.000-08:00

Not much to post

2011-02-13T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm fine! thanks to all who wished me a speedy 'back to normal'. I was shaken up a little by the fall but there was no serious damage done for which I am so grateful. I will certainly have to learn to pick my feet up though - I seem to have a bad habit of dragging them LOL.

I've had a busy week - bible in 90 days is going well - in fact I find myself 2 days ahead of myself and I'm not sure how that happened so this morning I took a break as am nearly at the end of Psalms and they tend to be much of a muchness in content. Am at Ps 134 so almost at the end of them and almost to day 45 - the middle of the exercise.

Have been doing a lot of family history stuff in the past week. Sometimes I can go for a few weeks without doing much at all but in the last 10 days, I've had 3 people make contact with me from a couple of genealogy sites I have my tree listed on. Have found I have a second cousin in England I never knew before, another in Western Australia whose great grandparent is a sibling to mine, and a slightly more distant rellie in England I've made contact with. It is an exciting pastime and I really enjoy delving into the history of it all. Amazing things can be found out about people from the past. On a sad note though another person who made contact with me about 12 months ago - another distant rellie on my great grandmother's side of the family has passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. I was so sad as she wasn't a very old person. It's still a dreadful killer isn't it?

Our weather is blessedly cool with showers at present after that really beastly 8 days we had where the temperature was so high and sleeping was so difficult. Nights at present are cooler which is a relief.

Grandson L5.5 has had one week of school. His reaction on the first day when he phoned to tell me all about it - "it was AWESOME!" The next couple of days he wasn't so sure when it came time to leave home, but he's now made a couple of little friends from his class so he's feeling much more comfortable about it all.

Have just come in from my volunteer stint at the Visitors Information Centre - it was a fairly slow few hours but is pleasant enough as I take a book or some cross stitching to do. Haven't done anything recently on my 'Daisy Girl' but have been working on a very simple little Dimensions design on 16 Aida which is easier on my eyes. I'll soon get back to Daisy though.

Have finished off 2 scrapbook albums in the past week. One for a nephew's wife who had her 40th birthday last Saturday and has a nearly one year old. Now she can put all those gorgeous baby photos in order. The other is a surprise gift for someone who any day should have a new baby grand-daughter in the family. This album will cater for photos of her as well as her other little grandie, a boy.

Well no more to tell - must away and get dinner started - roast lamb tonight!

Blessings!

Feeling a bit sorry for myself!

2011-02-06T20:09:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness - have just come in from the library where I fell up the steps! What a silly old moo I am! My watch took the brunt of the fall and I've cracked the glass and belted it up a little - grazed knee, took a bit of skin off my hand and a sore forehead where I landed. Thank goodness I didn't damage my specs apart from a little scratch on the side! A dear old lady came rushing over to me and helped me up - she was so kind - one of God's angels there for me. I'll really have to watch my step (no pun intended) - must be my advancing age I think and not picking my feet up properly. I guess I'll know tomorrow if bruises emerge where else I might have landed.

My mum's back in hospital. My brother phoned me from NZ to let me know she has been in a week. He was not supposed to let me know (orders from her) however he felt I should be told. I've spoken to her a couple of times on the phone and she doesn't sound too good. The problem is pain in her lower back, hip and knee but especially down her right thigh. I feel strongly that she may have a pinched nerve in the lower spine as I've had similar pain in the past myself. There is not much that seems to relieve it. Anyway she is having all manner of tests carried out and I just hope that before long a diagnosis will be made. It's not good being so far away at a time like this.

We've just had 7 days of heatwave! A record has been broken for Sydney - 5 days was previously the longest over 30C (86F). For most of those 7 days, it reached 40/42C (107F) and has been most uncomfortable - especially sleeping at night. For those of you northerners reading this, we 'downunder' as a general rule don't have air conditioning/heating built into our homes although having said that, more and more people building new homes these days are certainly doing just that. We mostly have brick homes too and once those bricks heat up after a number of hot days, it takes a while for them to cool down, even with insulation etc. Yesterday we got a predicted cool change mid afternoon which brought the temperature down by about 15 degrees in quite a short time. What a blessed relief.

Australia has certainly had dramatic weather conditions in the past few weeks. Floods in Queensland, Northern NSW and Victoria, Cyclone Yasi has devastated many towns on the northern Qld coast and a few hundred miles inland and in the last few days, Western Australia around Perth has been battling dreadful bush fires. It's all happening here folks! All we in Sydney have had to cope with has been the heat. We consider ourselves more fortunate than our neighbours in other parts of the country.

Recently I've been feeding the Rainbow Lorikeets sunflower seeds instead of grain bread. I was really being a bit aggravated by the brown Indian Mynah birds which are so aggressive, even to their own. The seeds are working out much better as the 'brown bombers' are not seed eaters. I am putting out 3 trays each afternoon with the seeds and the birds come down and really get 'stuck in' to it. I took a couple of pics of them with their heads down, tails up feeding - they look so comical!

Youngest grandson L5 1/2 started school this morning. I am anxious to know how it all went for him. His daddy was planning to take pics of him and big brother E7 before they left. I'll post them here if he manages to send them on to me.

Well that's about it for now. Hope you are all doing OK and thanks for popping in.

Blessings!

sunrise during the heatwave

scrambling for best position

heads down, tails up!

and a drink afterwards!

STAMPING - no not my feet!

2011-01-28T13:22:00.000-08:00

I really love the Magnolia brand rubber stamps! I've never been a great 'stamper' but recently I purchased my first 'Tilda' and made some of my Christmas cards featuring her. I just love the 'chunkiness' of them - just great to colour and since I began using Copic markers, I love them even more.

Now this is not a free commercial for Magnolia or Copic - I just wanted to show some of the cards I've been making recently. So without any more ado -

ta da!!

I deliberately left these cards bereft of wording - I'll just add something appropriate when I choose to use them. This weekend I'm planning to give the baby boy away with a small gift to a new mum who's recently had a little boy named Malachai - so I'll add a cutesy 'something or other' that I think is exactly 'her'.

My visit to the eye specialist yesterday went well. It seems one tear duct may have been partially blocked but after a squirt of saline from a syringe through a mini-mini canula, it seemed to unblock with a squirt into my nose! A strange feeling. After a couple of drops into my eyes which made my pupils dilated and another examination, it seems I have the beginnings of cataracts. Oh well - that's aging for you I guess. It's not concerning me - it could be years before anything needs to be done about that particular situation. I spent the best part of the rest of the day though, worried by my dilated pupils - fortunately the sky was fairly dull for the drive home but my sight didn't right itself until late in the afternoon. Not too much of a problem though - and so on that note -
All for this time
Blessings!

CHIT CHAT

2011-01-23T19:53:00.000-08:00

Another week has passed - cannot believe we are almost at the end of January! Is this how quickly 2011 is going to pass? It must be that I'm getting older.

Another week of reading the bible each morning. Now that I've reached 'the Samuel's' it is a lot easier even though the biblical names still get me! They are so difficult to pronounce - even silently! I usually have to read them aloud to get the 'gist' of what they sound like. They sure were a blood-thirsty mob back in those days - going to war with neighbours almost for the sake of it without any really good reason. I'm so glad we don't operate that way these days. But it's easy to see that God had a hand in it all and David honoured Him in everything he did (well almost - discounting his discretion with Bathsheba) - but I run ahead of myself. I've only just begun that part of David's story this morning so I won't comment any further.

At my usual weekly bible study (which doesn't commence for 2011 until next week) the title of the booklet we will be using is "Bold I Approach" (Tony Payne Matthias Media) the why and how of prayer. I'm looking forward to this study as prayer is something I always seem to struggle with. Not the actual praying, but the words to say.

Have been doing a little more stitching on my WIP "Daisy Girl" recently and I'll include a pic of my progress. I've also begun a little 'Dimensions' piece which is a bicycle with a huge bunch of flowers on the handlebars - just something quick as a bit of a change from working on linen which I find fairly tedious these days. I haven't a pic of that one yet but will do that soon.

I've just come home from an appointment at my optometrist. My eyes tested OK with no real change in prescription for my specs from last test 12 months ago but there seems to be something going on in my right eye which is causing my vision to not be great. My GP thought it might be blocked tear ducts and I've an appt to see a specialist at the end of the week but after this mornings check up, it's possible it may not be the cause of my problem. The machines which are used these days to take photos of the eye are absolutely amazing! Fancy even being able to get a pic of the film across the eyeball and from that to be able to see the depth of tears formed at the base of the eye. My problem may simply be 'old age' with the old eyelids sagging somewhat and changing the shape of both the eyeball and the opening to the tearduct. Isn't it amazing what technology can do these days?

Anyway I'll know more after Friday when I see the specialist.

A few days ago a baby Noisy Miner bird came to the birdbath. No mum or dad nearby that I could see - its the first time I've seen such a baby attempt by itself to go adventuring this way. It had a marvellous time flapping in and out of the water. I couldn't resist taking a photo of the cute little thing. Oh yes - instead of feeding the lorikeets grained bread recently, I've started putting out sunflower seeds for them. I was getting really aggravated by the Indian myna birds which were stealing it all the time and causing damage to the native birds as well. Since I've been using the seed, the mynas have shuffled off to a certain extent but we've been getting visits from some huge white sulphur crested cockatoos. They are big birds with an awful screech and all the little lorikeets are really quite afraid of them. They also do a lot of damage to any fruit or vegies they can swipe at the same time so I don't encourage them. Here is a pic of one having a good feed of the seed before I shushed him away! There's also one of a colourful bug I found on one of the eucalyptus trees recently.

All for now!

Blessings!

Birthdays

2011-01-19T02:12:00.000-08:00

Why is it that as you get older, birthdays seem to be like any other day. Kids just can't wait for theirs and continually ask 'how many weeks'? 'how many sleeps' - but for me anyway, birthdays now are just like any other day.

Well you might have guessed already - it was mine today and honestly I don't feel a day older! Maybe next year when its one with a big fat ZERO on the end of it I may feel differently.

Today was quite unspectacular (is there such a word) - but good none the less. It was good to just be alive, to have experienced one more day in the Lord's time. Nice cards, phone messages and heaps of facebook birthday greetings made it just that bit more of a 'birthday' feel.

Well, tomorrow is another day and for now, I'm off to bed!

Blessings!

B90Days - week 2

2011-01-17T01:13:00.000-08:00

Boy am I sure glad I'm through all those rules and regulations - even Deuteronomy's long sermon took some getting through but now I'm on to Joshua I feel sure I really enjoy reading each day. I was pleased I only had one 'catch up' during last week - my morning reading time just seemed to slip away and I had to finish in the afternoon.

Three verses kind of jumped out at me: Deuteronomy 10: 12 (Walk in His ways) 13: 17 & 18 (Keep His commands) and had a good chuckle at 24: 5 where a new bridegroom is instructed to not work for one year in order to keep his bride happy. Wow! imagine that these days? LOL

DH is home on holiday this week - sadly we won't get to spend much time together as I am still required for childminding for another 3 weeks. Much as I love these two 'nippers', I will be quite relieved when they are both at school for the new term. While E7 begins on Monday 31st Jan, L5, beginning his first year at 'big school' starts a week later. Called at the public library today and picked up two Elizabeth Elgin novels to read. Very light reading - this woman writes novels about conditions during the World War 2 era - nice quick, light 'before going to sleep' kind of novels.

Below are two new acquisitions. I love the colours of the fuschia - just like a ballerina's tutu - and the orchid is tiny and quite fragile looking.

Beautiful ballerina fuschia

Pretty pink phaeleonopsis orchid

Thanks for calling in - blessings!

B90Days

2011-01-10T01:30:00.000-08:00

When I was browsing my niece's blog not so long ago, I came across commennts which led me to another website. From there I jumped again and have come up with a great way to read right through the bible in 90 days.(See here) It is a schedule worked out for each day's readings. Without too much thought as to why I actually wanted to do it (in fact I'm still not really sure!) I signed up. It's not as though I'm signing my life away or anything nearly as drastic (LOL). Each reader is grouped with a leader who takes an active part through the internet in encouraging and praying for each participant in the group and is encouraged to check in to a website each Monday to update your experience and how you are finding it. Prayer requests can also be made and whilst being part of the group, other members are also praying for you.

I'm now on to my 8th day of readings and I have to be honest I have found the past couple of days fairly tough. My focus has not been great and I've been easily distracted, especially throughout Exodus where so much is repetitive. Still I'm determined to keep up with it and I know I will feel an achievement at the end of the 90 days.

Thanks for popping in - blessings!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us".

Ephesians 3: 20

Last days of 2010

2011-01-01T12:42:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to 2011, I'm posting a few of my last pic memories of December.

Rosy Galah's came to visit and tear up the grass!

Some new cards I made using the very cute "Magnolia" stamps

Beautiful soy wax Lemongrass perfumed candle which I keep on my kitchen benchtop

Butter beans, purple runner beans and the very first peas I have ever grown picked yesterday

90 Days

2010-12-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

Here I am on the last day of 2010. I've decided to read through the Bible and will be doing it in 90 days. It will be a challenge for me as I need to devote about an hour of reading each day. I didn't realise there were so many supports and resources out there for this kind of 'adventure' but I'm going to try to stick with it. The reading begins on January 3 and I'm hoping to update my progress here every Monday.

The weather today is hot! It's just after 1pm and already the thermometer has climbed to 32C. It is expected to get a bit hotter than that by late afternoon and I'm not looking forward to it. Here in Sydney we've been given a real reprieve from this heat so far but it looks as though that might be reaching it's end - more and hotter over the weekend is expected. These days I am trying not to use the air conditioner - our electricity bill has been creeping up with the increase in tarriff but we do have fans which are cooling especially at night - sleeping under one is a relief!

I've been checking out the internet for accommodation for our Family Reunion in June on the Gold Coast in Queensland and I think I've found one that looks OK which is half the price of the resort we stayed in three years ago. I'm glad I decided to look around first. It will be our early winter month when we all meet but Queensland temperatures shouldn't be too cold then. Probably swimming in the sea might be a bit cool but this resort has a heated pool and spa so for those who are brave enough, I'm sure that will be fine.

Not sure yet if I'll make it awake to see 2011 in yet - I usually fall asleep while waiting for the massive Sydney celebration fireworks to begin (on the TV I mean) but one of our channels is showing the Edinburgh Tattoo tonight so that should keep me awake for a while.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you my friend a very blessed New Year and peace throughout 2011.

Happy New Year!

Fireworks over Sydney Harbour showing Opera House

'Tis the day after Christmas

2010-12-25T22:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas eve saw us delivering the grandie's gifts to them. They were full of excitement and we got this pic to remember the occasion

Christmas morning worship service then home to a king ocean prawn lunch by ourselves - the first time in our almost 49 years of married life! A very lazy afternoon, napping, watching TV, cross stitching then out to our son's property for a combined meal with ours and his wife's extended families. Thirty three of us in total and what a spread it was.

A fun-filled game of volley ball where no rules were allowed followed to 'shake the first course down' - followed later by desert of Christmas plum pudding, whipped cream, cheese cake, chocolate log, trifle, ice cream and fresh fruit. Oh I forgot the chocolates and cheese dip which also added to the food spread. Despite there being 32 mouths to feed (1 extra being a baby) there was still a heap of food left over. No doubt that will be used over the next day or so.

Son had decorated his house and yard with lights which looked magnificent once daylight faded.

Despite the fact that youngest grandie broke three bones in his foot a week ago, and couldn't participate in the game, he had a good time and he and I sat on the old cubby house steps and watched the proceedings - until the mosquitoes began biting that was.

Well Christmas is over for another year - the preparation, the sending cards, the buying gifts, the eating more than we needed, the meeting of those we don't see regularly, all fades into insignificance when we remember the baby Jesus who came as the Saviour of the world. That is something we can celebrate every day of the year, not just at Christmas time.

Blessings!

Merry Christmas to you!

2010-12-24T09:23:00.000-08:00

As we reflect on the baby in the manger and the reason for his coming to earth, I wish for you a holy, peaceful, and safe Christmas.

Looking for someone?

2010-12-20T17:28:00.000-08:00

If you look for me at Christmas
you won't need a special star -

I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,
I'm right there where you are.

You may not be aware of Me
amid the celebrations -

You'll have to look beyond the stores
and all the decorations.

But if you take a moment
from your list of things to do

and listen to your heart - you'll find
I'm waiting there for you.

You're the one I want to be with,
You're the reason that I came,

And you'll find Me in the stillness
as I'm whispering your name

Love, Jesus

Inspiration?

2010-12-19T13:14:00.000-08:00

Yes I need some! I pop in to read so many but at present I just can't seem to get any enthusiasm or inspiration to write even though there seems to be lots going on in my life.

The Christmas lights look great now they are all operating as they should, but alas, lack of sunshine at times has meant that the solar panel ones are not twinkling as brightly as they should. Whoever heard of a December morning being only 12C outside? I don't remember it in Sydney anyway. Maybe that's a reflection of our northern cousins who are experiencing chilling weather at present. The photos I took of the lights didn't turn out too well so I'm not going to embarrass myself further by posting them. Suffice to say I just love looking at them out the windows in the evenings when they start to 'do their thing'!

As I write this at least the sun is shining but there's a cold wind.

Yesterday I spent a couple of hours doing some more stitching on my WIP. I've used all of one colour thread so will need to replenish supply. I will get to post another progress pic on this soon but at present I'm off to do my Monday volunteer at the Information Centre. I'll take it with me and hope that I have a chance to do a few more stitches on it.

Blessings!

Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

2010-12-10T05:04:00.000-08:00

Oh Christmas Lights!

2010-12-07T13:00:00.000-08:00

Neighbours have had their up for days, right down to a gorgeous sleigh with Santa sitting relaxed being pulled by three beautiful twinkling reindeer. Santa's climbing house walls, Santa's on roofs, even the lady next door was busy up on a ladder a couple of days ago hammering long lines of lights to the roofline (a first for this neighbour, bless her heart!). So with all that's happening around me to make it all feel more 'Christmassy' I felt obliged to move myself and start a bit of decorating myself.

Well, now the wreath's on the door, the little Christmas tree is up and the balustrade decorated with green and gold starry tinsel. Two new sets of solar lights for the shrubbery by the letterbox now fired up enough to twinkle their little heads off. Timer set on fixed lights around the roof line - last thing to do was switch on last year's solar lights (pretty multi coloured and flickering) which chase each other up under the eaves. Oh no! not working - oh well, put the solar panel right into the sun's path for a full day - that should do it. But Alas! they have gone to God!

Out with grandson L5 yesterday to the Christmas ~~el cheapo~~ shop to purchase more - darn it, I'll get two lots (just in case).

Came home and put the panels out in the brilliant sun. Not quite long enough though so today will have them out early to catch enough sun power for sparkles tonight.

Oh the joys of Christmas!

PS might get pics when all are functioning (ahem)!

Clydesdale eating?

2010-12-02T12:42:00.000-08:00

Another feature on our familiarisation tour was the Clydesdale Restaurant. An unusual way to see the historic sites around the Windsor (Sydney) area is to be pulled in a dining van by 3 beautiful Clydesdale horses. We stopped by to check it all out while they were being 'dressed' for the evening's booking. Beautifully docile animals stood patiently while their dresser plaited and twisted and knotted and decorated their manes and tails.

For just A$185 per person you can be fed a five course meal (collected along the way from the area's top restaurants) and be shown many historic sites in and around Windsor.

What a great way to spend an evening on a special occasion!

Blessings!

Hawkesbury River

2010-12-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

During the day out at the familiarisation tour, we crossed and drove alongside the Hawkesbury river in several different places. Here are a few photos I took along the way...

Looking towards Wisemans Ferry

Beautiful blue Jacaranda's in bloom

View from Cornwallis House

HISTORIC SYDNEY

2010-11-30T00:42:00.000-08:00

As a volunteer with my local council, I help at the Visitors Information Centre for my area. We are ready when visitors come in to the centre to help them out with brochures and information regarding accommodation or attractions in the area. As part of the volunteer team, every two months we are taken on a familiarisation tour to inspect many of the different venues and places of interest in the area known as The Hills and Hawkesbury.

Last week we had a full day and visited four different places - at three of them we were treated to either morning or afternoon tea and lunch. It was fabulous.

We went by coach to an out of the way place named Ebenezer. It is situated high up on a hill overlooking the Parramatta River and it was here that a stone church was built by Scottish settlers in 1809. Fifteen pioneer families who settled in the area made a huge contribution to the development of the colony in this area in those early days. Now 200 years is not that old when thinking of history but for Australia, it was only 30 years after the first settlers arrived. There were others built around that time around the Sydney area but this is now Australia's oldest surviving church and was the first non-conformist then Presbyterian church in Australia.

Ebenezer means ‘The Lord has helped us all the way’ or ‘Stone of Help’ and is referenced in 1 Samuel 7 and verse 12.

The church began a school in 1810 and pioneered education in the colony. It is the oldest extant school building in Australia.

After sailing for 90 days to get to such a strange place, I wondered what their reactions must have been on arrival in this harsh environment. But hard as it was, they never forgot the Lord who had kept them safe. After worshiping in the open air for 5 years, the work on the church commenced. It was indeed a privilege and an honour to sit on one of those very hard wooden pews and reflect on those families who had worked so hard and sacrificed so much coming to a new country to start a new life for themselves and their families.

What a very special contribution they made and one that we were able to reflect on during our visit to this beautiful little stone church tucked away amongst the gum trees.

The roses are a picture

2010-11-16T13:02:00.000-08:00

Blame it on the wet year we've had, the fertiliser, or just good fortune, but the roses have been magnificent since they began their blooming a few weeks ago. I never get tired of looking at them - or taking pics of them for that matter. Each one so different in colour and shape and yet each of them reminds me of Jesus, Rose of Sharon! Beautiful Saviour! Wonderful Lord!

Blessings!

Aotearoa (NZ - Land of the Long White cloud)

Brigadoon

Diana Princess of Wales

Julia's Rose

Just Joey

Moonstone

Shocking Blue bud

Shocking Blue in the rain

Christmas baking

2010-11-15T01:32:00.000-08:00

This morning dawned blessedly cool compared to the past three! With day time temperatures around 33C and night time inside still around 27C it was a relief to be able to open the doors and windows and let some coolness in.

Since today promised to be the coolest for the next week, and since I had put the Christmas cake dried fruit to soak in brandy last week, I decided it might be a good day to bake. I had just put a loaf of banana bread into the oven when a phone call announced that young grandie L5 wanted to visit. Of course his mum was pleased to take the opportunity to do her weekly grocery shop at the supermarket as well so knowing that I was not going to be able to 'entertain' too much with the process of cake making in hand, decided the best thing to do was get some gingerbread dough on the way as well.

Had just taken the banana bread out of the oven and put the Christmas cake in when young L arrived. Excited at the prospect of making his own gingerbread men, he got started right away. He kneaded and rolled and cut his way through a stack and we baked three trays full. Once cool enough, the finishing touches were made with white icing. By the time mum arrived back to collect him, a large container was filled for her to take home and freeze. Of course L needed to carry out a taste test and reported that they were certainly yummy!

Banana bread, Christmas cake and gingerbread shapes all baked beautifully. A successful morning indeed. We made precious memories today. Thankyou L for being part of that special time together!

Blessings!

Christmas craft chit chat

2010-11-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

For the past couple of weeks I've been slowly getting my Christmas cards made. This year I've used a Cuttlebug Christmas tree embossing folder and a cute little Magnolia stamp. Now for the best part - writing inside them and sending them off.

Has been a hot day here in old Sydney town. Got to 32 degrees with brilliant sun. Not even a sign of storm clouds in the sky - but I won't hold my breath as they are predicted for Monday.

As long as it cools off a little, I will bake my Christmas cake though so I'm really hoping for another few days of clouds and rain. I'm really late in making it this year as normally it would be baked in October however being away then, it didn't get done.

With the sunshine predicted for the next couple of days, I got out into the garden this morning with the spray bottle of weed killer and spent a couple of hours finding those that had sprung up in the past few weeks. The past two Saturday's DH has done a great job and pulled out heaps of them which had grown down one side of our boundary. I just followed up today to try to avoid them springing up again too quickly.

Tomorrow the two littlest grandies are coming for lunch. They have swimming lessons in the morning so their mum will bring them here when they've finished. They love to get here especially when 'Grumps' is home from work.

Till next time - blessings!

Searching for friends

2010-11-09T13:21:00.000-08:00

Over the past few years I've done a good deal of searching for old friends and was reminded again of this today when reading one of my favourite blogs here - what a feeling of achievement when someone long thought 'lost' is tracked down.

When in New Zealand recently I met up with someone I had known in primary school, but at the age of around 10 years she was moved to another school and we lost contact. We 'found' each other about 12 months ago through one of the 'friend' websites where we had both registered with our old school. That meeting prompted us to both try to 'find' another mutual friend from those early years. With a little digging, and contact with her brother, I managed to get a phone number for her. It was a thrill to talk and catch up on marriages, children, careers, grandchildren. Now our mutual friend has also 'caught up' and because both live in the same city, they plan to meet soon to get to know each other all over again.

How good it is to know that we can never be separated from our Heavenly Father, not by time, nor distance nor any other circumstance. In fact even if we tried to move from him, he would still faithfully be by our side, just waiting for us to 'make contact' again.

Thank you Abba Father for Mercy and Grace...

Mercy - I don't get what I deserve

Grace - I get what I don't deserve

Blessings!

It did go away - the rain I mean

2010-11-07T12:54:00.000-08:00

It was a very shaky start to the day - from my kitchen window all I could see was fog - thick fog - not usual for early November - but I guess I felt I couldn't lose anything by pinning the washing out on the line. (For those 'northern' friends, if you didn't know, we 'down under' peg out wet clothes out on a clothes line to dry in the sun and breeze, not in the clothes dryer). I'd managed to get some washing almost dry yesterday by hanging it over the airing rack inside, but there's nothing like bringing it in off the line smelling so - kind of 'sunny'!

So I trudged out over the very wet grass and in the coolness of 13 degrees, put it on the line. I guess I was hoping that when the fog lifted, there'd be a bit of a flapping breeze enough to dry it. We set off for church - the weather still not looking hopeful, but by the time we left again for home, the sun had come out and it was looking really good - in fact, brilliant.

A light lunch over, I took my WIP with me and sank into our lovely outdoor chair and breathed in the beautiful sunny afternoon. I could almost feel my skin taking in big gulps of the warmth. So many days of dull, cool, damp! It was great to feel that Spring might almost have decided to visit. It's less than a month till our 'down under' Summer officially begins, but I'm not holding my breath even though today is forecast to be warm and dry, as the weather people are predicting rain and even storms before the end of the week again. Perhaps the long range forecaster was correct after all and we'll be still 'soaking it up' until at least December.

Anyway I'm grateful for the sunny afternoon I spent working on my Daisy Girl - I might even do it again today - it's looking promising!

Blessings!

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (brunsfelsia) in bloom at present

Rain, rain, go away

2010-11-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

A rainy, foggy Sunday morning. Everything feels damp. I'd like to think that soon we will dry out and get a little sunshine here, but the forecast says more to come!

My vegies are getting waterlogged and won't grow without sunshine so things aren't looking good in my little garden. The potatoes are just coming in to flower but with no sunshine or bees I fear we may lose the lot after about 10 weeks of growing!

A load of washing finished and I thought I'd be tempted to pin it on the line and just 'hope for the best' with a few possible dry spells during the day enough to dry it but it's not looking positive.

Despite the 'big wet,' the birds begin their early morning twittering and busy themselves seeking out tidbits for their young. The butcher bird family I've discovered to now be six. In the bottle brush tree close to the house yesterday, four young sat waiting for parents to bring food. They are amazing! Baby spied a (rather large) grasshopper and flew down and grabbed it. Back on the branch it tried to shovel it into it's mouth sideways. 'No, no, baby - that's not the way to do it!' I sensed mother saying. She neatly took the bug, 'mangled' it in her beak and neatly turned it around so that head first, it fitted right into baby's open mouth. After a couple of huge gulps, it was gone! Amazing to watch these small creatures who, despite the patience they show, are also quick to admonish when babies step out of line!

Thank you God for this your day, and for the freedom we have to worship you! I'm off to do that right now.

Blessings!

Rainbow Lorikeets feeding after the rain

Down memory lane

2010-11-03T18:05:00.000-07:00

My recent time in New Zealand was spent in the area I went to primary school. So much has changed, older houses being pulled down and flash new ones being built. All those years ago when I attended the old school, not too many families had large incomes - we were pretty much on the same economic level - mostly low! A few kids from the wealthy areas did start off at the local school but often were removed as they got to age about 10 and put to a 'private school' where fees were high and special uniforms and even hats were worn. In some cases, gloves were an essential part of the uniform for the girls.

Well it so happens that my Mum's new unit is right behind the old school. I either drove past or walked through it a fair few times in the 6 weeks I was there. I was rather surprised and yet pleased that it really hadn't changed much at all. Even the old stone wall which curves around one side of the playing area was still there. It was a popular spot for us to play marbles and we would either line up our (very) new plastic 'allies' along the wall - 3 in a row and 3 feet back the kids had to stand to take a shot at them - or 5 in a row and 5 feet back and so on. Or the boys would draw chalk circles and place a marble in the centre and from the outside ring, others would flick a marble between their thumb and first finger and try to make a strike.

Mum always gave us kids sandwiches for our lunch, invariably filled with squashed bananas. You know how they brown over after a few hours? My leather school bag really smelled of bananas most of the time and for many years now I've not been able to eat the blessed things because of the memory of that school bag. How silly is that?

The small building at the gate was always known as the 'murder house' and we kids lived in fear and trembling when our names were called for us to go visit the dental nurse. I hated sitting in that chair with all its contraptions hanging off the sides but the thing I dreaded more was the old drill which was operated by a pedal on the floor which drove a kind of belt around a couple of little wheels which in turn made the drill whizz around at a fast pace. I hated the feeling of the warmth of the drill on my tooth enamel and the intense pain when it hit a nerve. Oh I feel shudders just thinking about it now. If you were very lucky indeed, as an older pupil you might just be chosen to be the nurse helper for a day - I'm so pleased I never was chosen for that.

I did get to be morning tea monitor though. At age 12 our last year of primary school the girls always felt they were something special to be chosen to make morning tea for the teachers in the staff room. It was the only two storied part of the school and we monitors were always looked up to by the other kids. Not quite sure why when I think of it now, but perhaps it was because we got to miss class for 15 minutes or so before the recess bell went.

At recess we would file out of class and get to take a 1/2 pint bottle of milk out of the crate which would have been left at the door. Another thing I really didn't like - having been delivered quite early in the morning, the milk by this time was quite warm with a thick layer of cream which had risen to the top of the bottle. When I look back on it now, we were fairly fortunate to have it provided for us.

A walk down memory lane is a good thing to do and many times when I think back on those times I wonder how today's kids would fare, given the same kind of conditions we had growing up. So many gadgets and gidgets available to us today make living so much easier but I'm grateful for memories of those times - and grateful for that simple way of life.

I'd better bring myself back to the present!

Blessings!

Boat sheds still survive not far from where I lived as a child 60 years ago - Orakei, Auckland New Zealand

Dawn, Sunrise and Twilight

2010-10-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year DH was the highest bidder at a fund raising fun auction. He won a weekend away at a wonderful place on Sydney's eastern coast called Collaroy. The booking was made and we looked forward for months to our 'weekend away' however little did we know that it would be cut short by my flying out to Auckland on the Sunday afternoon.

However it worked out well and we had a beautifully relaxing time. Our 1st story room had a balcony which overlooked the ocean - an amazing spot to view the dawn, sunrise and twilight. We were blessed!

Dawn

Sunrise

Twilight

WIP and Halloween

2010-10-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

Have been battling some king of flu bug for the past week and feeling rather under the weather. Sore throat, aches and pains etc etc. Went to the doctor Friday just to get it checked out - came home with a script for an antibiotic in case it turned into some kind of bacterial infection. Feeling still poorly, and it being such a beautiful day in Sydney town yesterday I sat outdoors and took my current cross stitch piece. I had taken it with me to NZ hoping while mum was in hospital I'd have 'plenty' of time to get some done - little did I know I'd be well occupied with other activities!

Anyway, had taken another photo of the piece prior to continuing with it yesterday so I've included it here to show where I'm up to.

Today has dawned warmer than normal but we are heading for rain by midday and this will continue for the rest of the week. Whoever the long range forecaster was who told us a couple of months ago that we'd have rain right until Christmas is proving to be correct. Normally at this time of the year we have quite dry weather but not at present.

October 31 today - doubt if we'll be having any little trick or treating visitors tonight. There has been a certain reluctance on the part of Ozzie's to get too involved in this kind of activity however there is certainly a huge amount of stuff in the shops egging people on to buy, decorate, and go all out for Halloween this year.

The two littlest grandies had a school Halloween disco and bbq last Friday night. Apparently it was a good night for the kids but all eldest E7 got from it was a good head cold! Boo-ey!

For all of you who do celebrate Halloween - have an exciting one!

Blessings!

Baby butcher bird appears

2010-10-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

In the past I've kind of dreaded late September, into October as the butcher birds who've nested in the big tree at the front of our place have 'terrorised' me by swooping very close to my head whenever I've taken a wander outside the door. Being away out from home for the last 6 weeks has meant I've missed that dreaded swooping business that seems to last for ages - at least until the babies 'fly the coop'!

Yesterday I was repotting some hanging baskets just outside the front door of our house and heard a twittering, tweeting commotion quite close. Our neighbour's garage backs on to our boundary line and has a flat roof - Mama (or Papa) butcher bird had brought baby on to the flat surface and they were perched right on the edge, baby getting his fill of tidbit. Parent flew off again for a refill and baby remained sitting very close to the edge. I popped indoors to get my camera and shot one of it but there was a twig in the way. I continued with my repotting expecting parent to be back soon but when I looked up again, baby had flown - right on to a branch of a gum tree which grows quite close. I think it might be time for baby to be out of the nest and on it's own as it flew off quite soon after that. I was surprised to see it flying very proficiently.

I love this time of the year - so many lovely birds in our back yard including the family of Noisy Miners who come daily now for their feed of bread. Since I've been away though, my two favourite little green parrots have disappeared so I'll be keeping watch for them in case they arrive back. They could be nesting and staying close to 'home'. A couple of rainbow lorikeets must have stuck around as they appear each morning quite early waiting for their handout.

No doubt the amount of rain that Sydney has had over these past few months has meant that lots of flowering natives have an abundance of blooms at present and the local birds just love it. In that respect, I'm pleased they are not needing to call in to my back door for a top up. It is much nicer that they are feeding as nature intended.

Blessings!

Where do I start?

2010-10-25T20:12:00.000-07:00

Where do I start? So much to tell and for you to catch up on.

Up early on 13th of September after arriving in Auckland the night before. Mum had to be at the hospital by 7am for admission and surgery. For four days or so she doesn't remember anything much at all but she did have massive surgery for a 91 year old. The surgeon felt sure the tumour had been contained and that all was removed.

Recovery was slow and the first few days for her, a blur. For me just getting back and forth to the hospital was about all I could cope with, as well as answering the huge number of phone calls from family and friends.

Out of the blue a phone call revealed there was a vacant 'pensioner' unit available which we had the opportunity to move Mum to. My brother had come down with a dreadful bout of the flu and wasn't able to visit so after phone consultations and discussions, it was decided to 'take the bull by the horns' and accept the move for her. I was given 5 days to do what I would ordinarily have said was impossible. It's amazing what one person can do when called upon - added strength and stamina is given and boy did I need all of it over that time. As soon as the keys to the new place were in my hands it was 'all on.' I began packing from cupboards and drawers, sorting and 'chucking out' as I went. Over 20 years worth of gathering and stashing had to be gone through. Organised a local Salvation Army shop to pick up what furniture was not going to fit and shopped for some new which would. There were times when I wondered if I would get through but God was gracious and I felt his presence throughout.

The move was finally completed with a furniture removalist coming and taking all that was too heavy for me and a final clean up and 'skip' bin delivered to take away all the rubbish and the move was done. It was all finished in time for Mum's discharge from hospital and although it was so sad she wasn't able to go back to her old place, (she couldn't have managed the 16 internal stairs), she was grateful that she didn't have to physically do the moving herself.

A visit to the oncologist a few days after her discharge helped her decide not to go ahead with any further treatment and the family felt good about that. Already the surgery and rehabilitation had taken a toll on her and her short term memory was not good.

Three more weeks I stayed with her, helping her find things where I'd put them and familiarising herself in her new abode. The last week I stayed with rellies at night and went back during the day. This gave Mum a chance to be by herself and realise she was able to do things OK by herself. During this time she and her memory have improved and although physically a lot slower, I am hoping in time she will be able to once again enjoy the activities she has always been involved in.

Of course she was sad to see me return home but I was ready to leave and return to my family. My poor DH had 6 weeks by himself, still working full time made it difficult for him to prepare and cook meals but he did it and was pleased that I was able to go and spend the time with Mum. God works in mysterious ways, his wonders to perform - I've proved that so many times in the past few weeks and it has helped confirm my faith over and over again.

Thank you Lord for your mercies!

I'm Back

2010-10-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

I simply cannot believe I've been away 6 weeks. Anyway I'm back home and although making this short, intend to get back here real soon.

Blessings Friends!

Last Chance

2010-09-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

I'll soon be winging my way to my birth country and although my computer will be my traveling companion, I'm not sure I'll get too many opportunities to write up here.

I'll try to check in whenever I can but not sure how often that will be - I'll be relying on Wi Fi at a Macca's I think.

If I get the chance, I'll be reporting on Mum's progress and would really appreciate your prayers for both her and me, and my family who will be left at home.

Thanks so much friends.

Blessings!

Fathers Day Downunder

2010-09-05T03:05:00.000-07:00

The last two days have been wet, cold and miserable so it was a delight to see a brilliant sun shining when we awoke this morning. However a keen wind had sprung up overnight and continued to buffet everyone and everything throughout the day, only easing late this afternoon. Feeling so sad for the people of Christchurch New Zealand after a dreadful earthquake struck their city and surrounds. They are saying it is the first earthquake in NZ with a richter scale reading higher than the 1932 quake which dessimated the cities of Hastings and Napier in Hawkes Bay. My mum actually experienced that earthquake as a child at school and it still terrifies her thinking about it. She is still very afraid to go into elevators or escalators and at 91 years of age still prefers to climb stairs rather than zoom up or down in either of those 'travel' aids.

Is it Father's Day in all parts of the world today? I can never remember. I think maybe Mother's Day might be the same all over but not FD.

Our FD was great. A lovely church service this morning where a couple of young women trainee officers (Salvation Army terminology for minister) officiated and did a brilliant job. They are going to be an asset wherever their first appointment out of College may be. Home and quickly out again to join our Sydney family for lunch at a local country club.

Beautiful meal and great company. DH was spoiled by our kids and grandkids - books and gift vouchers. We had a quiet tea this evening contemplating what a lovely day it had been.

I've begun a new cross stitch pattern. It's a chart I've had for a long time and I noticed it was produced in 1995 so it's not new by any means. It's very different in design to my usual pieces so I'll show you the first few stitches - some of you might be able to guess what the design is.

I'm flying to New Zealand to be with my mum when she undergoes her surgery soon. I'm nervous for her - she has been told by her doctor that it is not usual for people as old as her to be operated on however they consider her physical health to be good so feel there is every reason to go ahead. DH will be looked after well by the family and is very proficient at cooking meals and doing all the other household chores that need to be done.

I'm hoping I will get a chance to look in on all my blogger friends but I probably won't get the opportunity to actually put anything on this page for a while.

Meantime, blessings to you all!

Feel Kinda 'Under'

2010-08-30T00:08:00.000-07:00

No I don't mean 'down under' cos that's where I live - just kinda sad and disappointed in some ways that my 91yr old mum has to go through hysterectomy surgery in a couple weeks time. I will be traveling to Auckland the day before her surgery to be with her and drive her to the hospital. I guess its just life isn't it but I have a feeling this might have consequences for her down the track a bit. Will have to wait and see the results of the surgery and biopsy first though so I'd better not get too much ahead of myself.

As for life this past week - it's been busy. Saturday E18 grand-daughter hosted a 1 yr old party for her puppy. This is the first time I've heard of this kind of thing but then that's probably not unusual as we don't have a dog but it turned out really well and all the little doggie guests behaved really well. Then in the evening looked after the two littlest grandsons while their mum and dad went to a school fund-raiser Trivia night. It was a dress up affair - something beginning with 'B'. They went as batman and batwoman. Looked great too!

About all for now - need something to pull me out of the doldrums - perhaps bible study in the morning will do it. I pray so!

Blessings!

Texas the birthday girl

Pepsi

Watching: Kim's Picks- Drawing Heaven

2010-08-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

Saw this on facebook this morning - its incredible - have a look (and thanks Kat for sharing it)

Blessings!

TVKim- Watching: Kim's Picks- Drawing Heaven

Inspiration

2010-08-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

In Christ alone my hope is found

He is my light, my strength, my song

This Cornerstone, this solid ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love, what depths of peace

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease

My Comforter, my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone, who took on flesh

Fullness of God in helpless babe

This gift of love and righteousness

Scorned by the ones He came to save

‘Til on that cross as Jesus died

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay

Light of the world by darkness slain

Then bursting forth in glorious Day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life, no fear in death

This is the power of Christ in me

From life’s first cry to final breath

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man

Can ever pluck me from His hand

‘til He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

Stuart Townend

(to see and hear this clip go here )

Family

2010-08-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

Have had disturbing news in the past couple of days. My 91 year old Mum has been diagnosed with cancer of the uterus and is having a hysterectomy soon. I will need to go to be with her so have booked my flight to NZ but no return flight at this time. I feel sad that a lady of her age needs to go through this trauma but she feels slightly relieved that at least something will be done. She has been in a lot of pain recently and I guess for her, the surgery at least will be a release from that.

Because she lives in a 2 storey townhouse, she is not allowed to go straight home after her release from the hospital but will need to go to some kind of rehabilitation facility. It will be good to be there with her while she goes through this.

We never know just what life will throw at us do we? I find it difficult to understand how so many people can live without a strong faith in God - sometimes that's about all we can cling to. His daily presence assures us that we are loved and cared for by him, and the Holy Spirit's guidance will take us through these tough times with a hope for the future. I pray He will keep me strong in the future and for wisdom and patience in the days that lie ahead.

Blessings!

Scrapbooking

2010-08-19T18:07:00.000-07:00

Just a few pages from a scrapbook I've recently finished for DH's youngest brother and new wife.

AMY - Grand-daughter's baptism

2010-08-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

Things to think about

2010-08-06T17:06:00.000-07:00

If you never felt pain, then how would you know that I am a Healer?

If you never had to pray, How would you know that I am a Deliverer?

If you never had a trial, How could you call yourself an overcomer?

If you never felt sadness, How would you know that I am a Comforter?

If you never made a mistake, How would you know that I am a forgiver?

If you knew all, How would you know that I will answer your questions?

If you never were in trouble, How would you know that I will come to your rescue

If you never were broken, Then how would you know that I can make you whole?

If you never had a problem,How would you know that I can solve them?

If you never had any suffering, Then how would you know what I went through?

If you never went through the fire, Then how would you become pure?

If I gave you all things, How would you appreciate them?

If I never corrected you, How would you know that I love you?

If you had all power, Then how would you learn to depend on me?

If your life was perfect, Then what would you need me for?

I love you,
Jesus

THE WEEK THAT WAS

2010-08-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

A busy week - daughter's birthday, chimney swept, naval oranges ready to pick, rainbow on the road to Canberra, ducks visited on a rainy day, August 1 - Wattle Day, camellia's blooming, first Daphne flower burst open, beautiful sunrise this morning ... God's blessings!

KEN DUNCAN PHOTOGRAPHER EXTRAORDINAIRE

2010-08-01T15:34:00.000-07:00

Its been a busy week capped off by an overnight trip to Canberra - our National Capital. A drive of around 3 hours from home, we left on Saturday morning getting there around 11am. A visit to the Australian War Memorial Museum was our first stop where we browsed for a couple of hours. It wasn't the first time we'd visited but as on previous occasions, I have personally found it all a little bit depressing. Having said that though, the displays are beautifully put together, the diorama's, audio visual displays and whole setup are quite amazingly done. One wing of the museum was under renovation so we were only able to visit the WW1 sections. Some of the goods for sale in the shop though were rather quirky and some quite beautiful so picked up A13's birthday present to post off sea mail in the next week or so. Hope he likes it when it arrives.

After lunch at the museum cafe we found our way by map to the Best Western we had booked into. Took advantage of their cable TV (or at least the sport channel is what interested DH until he fell asleep) and generally just 'veged out' until it was time to get ready and go to the function we had come for.

It was a simply fantastic 'do' - beautiful meal interspersed with Ken Duncan's visuals of some of his wonderful photography, with his telling us of the stories behind the shots. He is certainly a very funny man and kept us both amused and enthralled. Leading up to the weekend, entries to a photographic competition had been received and the winners announced. What a talented lot of photographers! Even kids as young as 6 had entered their categories and some very nice work amongst them.

Sunday morning we were back at the same venue for a church service where Ken and a wonderful young soprano, Rachel Cunningham, were the guests. Ken blew us away again with his stories behind his photos from both Australia and around the world.

He told us how he was woken from sleep one night by God - the message was “If America removes the words In God We Trust from their currency, I will abandon them as a nation.” It seemed to Ken as though God was asking him to publish a book of photographs from every state in the United States of America, showing the wonders of God's creation there and and how much God had blessed that country. He had little idea of how he could achieve this and knew from his savings he would probably have enough to travel to about 5 US states however it would cost thousands of dollars to pull off the whole thing, both travel and publication. So strong was his calling from God for this project that he and his wife eventually mortgaged their home and were able to raise enough for him to undertake and achieve it. Finally he was able to present the copy to the American president the day before the tragic 'September 11'. (see full story at http://hubpages.com/hub/In-God-We-Trust-A-Panoramic-View-by-Ken-Duncan )

At the end of the service Ken made an altar call and a number of people took the walk of their lives and committed themselves to accept Jesus Christ as their Saviour.

An hour's drive from Canberra and we were at the home of very dear friends in Goulburn where we had lunch and a couple of hours to catch up with each other's news. Just before 3pm the dark clouds began to gather outside and we knew if we didn't make a move to the car, we'd get a drenching. So as the large drops began we made a dash for it and got on our way home. It was good to be home again but after such a full and enjoyable weekend I'm still reflecting on all I saw and heard. So many blessings!

Have a good week my friends!
Bless you!

EXCITING NEWS FOR A11

2010-07-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

Just saw a post on Facebook from Grand-daughter A11 - she's just home from 5 days at Kids Outdoor Zone PINK (for girls) and has announced that while away she not only caught a catfish but has accepted Christ into her heart. Just jumping for joy - thankyou Jesus!

The Birthday Boy

2010-07-16T17:38:00.001-07:00

The birthday was all he'd hoped for - lots of presents, food, playtime and family around him. What more could a kid ask for?

Well only the 'big' 5 party today at "Lollipops" kids indoor playground with his special friends.

As a side issue - I'm having problems with inserting photos - can anyone tell me how they can be placed in specific order? I used to be able to move them by just clicking and holding then moving them but something recently seems to have changed and I can't do that any longer. I'm finding it most frustrating.

Blessings!

Sunset Over the Blue Mountains

2010-07-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a brilliantly sunny and very windy day - a great day for getting the washing dry on the clothes line outside. Although the sun shone until late afternoon, there was little warmth in it - unless you happened to be having a nap on the bed where it was streaming in through the window - which L4 (soon to be 5) was.

On my way home from child-minding duty I thought it would be a great opportunity to get some photos of sunset. Here down-under they say if the wind is coming from the north-west it's a good time to take photos as it blows the smoggy filth away out to sea. So armed with camera and about 4.45pm I drove to a spot quite close to where I live to await the disappearing of the sun behind the Blue Mountains situated directly to our west. These photos are the result. I was disappointed to see so much cloud which prevented a clear picture of the sunset. Still some of the formations were quite interesting and the light certainly showed why this low mountain range is named. When taking the time to view this daily miracle, I cannot help but still be amazed at the wonders of God's creation.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY BAKING MORNING

2010-07-11T23:17:00.000-07:00

The proof of the pudding is in the eating!

The sleepover wasn't too bad. An afternoon's activity of reading, building Lego and watching football on the TV built up an appetite for dinner of beef casserole and chocolate icecream! From a family which doesn't practice the saying of 'Grace' before meals, this little guy surprised us by 'reminding' us of that 'thing' we say before our dinner. It was a good opportunity to explain why we do thank our Lord God for His provision! Bedtime was somewhat delayed by 'little kid away from home' tactics but by 9.30 L4 - soon to be 5 was asleep.

An hour later he stirred but didn't seem to wake so the grandparents got to sleep too. At 1.30 there was a certain stirring noise again and eventually he hopped into bed with "Grumps" and Grandma retired to 'his' bed. Sleep held him until 8.10am when the ringing of the telephone woke him.

Breakfast consisted of one 'square' of toast and vegemite - getting stuck into the baking was far more exciting. First we made shortbread cookies then some wonderful mini pizza's. While the pizza's were baking, the cookies were being iced and decorated. The excitement and longing to taste were just too much and as soon as the icing on the cookies was half set, he was into them. "Oh Granma... these are just so yummy!" (a hit here I think).

We were certainly helped by a lovely kids recipe book which I purchased recently "The Baking Book" by Jane Bull - ways to bake delicious things to eat. Every recipe was simple and used the least amount of ingredients. I'd recommend it for all future junior cooks!

By 11am when the baking was done and the tummy was full, it was time to go check out what big brother was doing at home. He'd 'done' the sleepover.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

2010-07-08T21:24:00.000-07:00

During the school holidays I look after my two smallest grandsons for two full days a week. Being very active and inquisitive boys I decided to make a purchase a couple of days ago that I'm now really regretting!

Rushing through the local hobby store to return some knitting needles which were not right, I saw some wooden kits to make different items - dinosoars, cars, motor bikes and the like. They contained paint and brush to 'do up' the finished article. I thought that would be a great idea to keep them busy for today. With great excitement this morning we opened the packs and began pressing out the pieces. Stopped in my tracks momentarily, I checked the packaging and the one small page enclosed. The instructions were rather vague. I was having difficulty pressing out the pieces and eventually had to get a small sharp knife to cut places which had been left joined. After breaking off the tip of the knife and one ruined thumb nail, I eventually got all the pieces off but not without some minor damage. "This is crazy" I was thinking - how do they expect kids to do this when I can't manage!

Anyway progressing to actually putting the bike together I couldn't make head nor tail of the 'instructions'. Each piece was pictured on the page with tiny numbers alongside slots where other pieces needed to be placed. Without boring you with the gory details, after 1 and a half hours, I gave up - absolutely bamboozled!

"Follow the instructions included for how to put the pieces together in numerical order. Have fun constructing your model." Fun they suggest! I was totally stressed out!

After packing all the pieces away except the larger 'wheels' and the like, I set the boys the task of painting them - fortunately it kept them busy until lunch time. I hope their dad checks it out when he gets home from work - maybe he can make head and tail of it all. I certainly couldn't.

I plan to drop a line to the manufacturer to get a comment from them. I'll let you know if and when I get a reply.

Have a good weekend! Blessings!

ANOTHER FOGGY WINTERS DAY

2010-07-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to think of something brilliantly intelligent to write here but nothing comes to mind. Although I enjoy winter more than summer usually, I find it's less inspiring for taking photos and doing interesting things. Yesterday I did my 2 weekly stint at the information centre and boy, was it slow! The day was dull and cold so guess nobody much was interested in making a visit - afterwards I went to the library and chose more books including another couple by Sue Grafton. I've been enjoying her 'adventures' of Kinsey Milhone as a private investigator recently - she writes descriptively with intrigue and mystery wound into her stories. I'm also enjoying the fact that each of her books revolve around the same character and place that she lives, getting to know other characters like her neighbour and the local 'eat in' owner.

I've been working on a scrapbook over the past week and am now up to page 4. It's been a struggle to get it going as I seem to constantly find I don't have something I need to complete the page. Yesterday after IC, I popped down to the local hobby shop and picked up some chipboard alphabet packs - it's working out a fairly expensive exercise as sometimes I only use a few of what's in the large pack. Oh well - that's scrapbooking I guess. I am improvising a lot though by stamping (which I'm not all that fond of) and printing out text from the computer so it's not all bad.

Did a little more work on my family history over the weekend too. In the past few months I've had another couple of people make contact with me and it is so interesting finding out a little bit more about families and putting more pieces together in the jigsaw puzzle. I get really excited when another link is put in place.

Bible study is in recess for the school holidays but I'm planning to get ahead on some of the lessons this morning. There's a thick 'pea soup' fog which is due to lift later on so I might get outside if the sun comes out. Meantime I'm just planning to mooch around and see what happens. Have plenty to do - even some housework if I'm that bored - but I doubt that will happen!

PICS FROM THE BIRTHDAY

2010-06-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

Grandson blowing out the candle

Son and DIL join in the fun

Granddaughter's boyfriend shared the same birth day

DH and daughter with the hot air balloon ride voucher

Cutting the cake is serious business

A view of some of the group

A good time was had by all. I think the birthday boy felt very special!

HOORAY FOR THE BIRTHDAY BOY!

2010-06-25T14:42:00.000-07:00

It turned out a nice evening. The family gathered to celebrate with DH for a nice meal at a local (newly renovated) watering hole. We had balloons and cake as well and the birthday was shared with young Glen who turned 20 yesterday as well. Grandies had a great time. Hope to have some photos by next post - son was planning to take his camera but forgot it in the rush to get out of the house - just as well son in law remembered his! Now I need to wait until he can send them to me via internet.

A lot of heavy rain overnight has left everything rather soaked so I think the washing will need to wait a day or so till the sun comes out again. Today might be a good day to catch up on a scrapbooking album I've started - oh yes, and another cake has to be baked for a special lunch tomorrow. Off to make a large pot of vegetable soup then put the cake in the oven.

Blessings!

THURSDAY ALREADY?

2010-06-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Is it just that I'm getting older - or are the days just flying past? I think it's a bit of both.

This week seems to have gone so quickly - Thursday already! It's probably because I've had lots to do this week. DH celebrates a very special birthday tomorrow so I've been out shopping on a couple of occasions gathering little nick nacks to use for baking his birthday cake.

The family are going out for a meal together tomorrow night to celebrate and birthday cake will be on the menu for dessert. I think it will be 'Devil's Food Cake' - at least I'm hoping it will be! Yesterday I made an old favourite's - banana cake - a very old recipe from a very old recipe book - one most Kiwi's will be very familiar with ' Edmonds'. My copy is a 1959 publication but it hit the book shelves earlier than that in NZ. It is still my favourite recipe book and has some lovely recipes that 'mother used to make'. You know the ones like Overnight pudding, Aotea biscuits and Afghans!

Tomorrow just happens to be E18's boyfriend's birthday as well so another cake will be made to celebrate that special day. I'm planning to be busy baking most of the day!

A couple of years ago I planted a tiny camellia shrub in a little corner at the front of the house. I already had several japonica variety in another part of the garden but this one is a sasanqua. Named "Volcano" the picture on the tag looked fabulous - bright red/pink and large. The first year it managed a few little buds and the flowers were puny and the next summer it almost got taken out completely by the heat. Half of it died off and I did a trim job on it. It hasn't grown all that much but this year it has a few buds, the first of which has turned out just gloriously. It is large and showy. I'm hopeful the other buds will bloom just as beautifully. Next time I'll report on the birthday bash and hopefully will have some photos to post as well. In the meantime -

Blessings!

OFF TO DO THE VOLUNTEERING THING

2010-06-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

Today I'm off to do my volunteering stint at the Visitor Information Centre again - those two weeks sure roll around quickly. It's unfortunate that business has been a bit slow since it's only been opened just a few weeks so my days there haven't been very busy and they do tend to drag a bit. Fortunately the weather has been mostly very sunny although cold so its been rather nice to sit out in the sunshine to eat lunch - but alas, today has dawned dull and wet - the only ones sitting out in it today I fear will be any ducks if they happen to be around.

So... will have to make do with trying to keep busy indoors and hope there'll be a few people popping in to ask directions or check out the new (unfinished) cafe which we hope will be opening soon. That should bring a few more customers through the door!

Blessings!

VERY COSY AFTERNOON

2010-06-19T22:44:00.000-07:00

The day has been very sunny - even warm if a sheltered spot could be found but after church this morning came home to a wonderful dinner smell which proved to taste just as good (had been simmering in the slow cooker all morning). After a nice cup of coffee and a little wander around the garden (transplanted 4 little cabbage seedlings) now I'm sitting close to the beautifully warm fireplace. Ahh... Sunday afternoons were never this good!

Blessings!

NEW LOOK

2010-06-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

I've decided to try a new look and a name change. Now I'm not a very inventive or ideas person - I like what I see, but don't have much skill in putting it together. After searching on the net for something I could use that reflects 'me' I gave up and decided to put on my table some of the things that I love, and went from there. Camera out, moving items into different positions and 'click' took some shots. The result is my new pic at the top of this page. I'll keep searching for just the 'right' look for me but for now I'm happy with how it has turned out.

The new name? You may think this is rather strange but again, it reflects 'me'. I love shabby chic - in pretty much any form - but the 'chic' part of the name is kind of a play on words. You see my DH has for many, many years called me "Chookie"! As for the shabby? Well I am getting on in years now and no longer a crisp fresh young thing. Much as I would love to think those days are not over, alas, they are long gone! Still we can dream can't we?

Blessings!

ANGEL CROSS STITCH

2010-06-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Haven't decided what kind of frame to use for this little treasure - thought I'd post the pics meantime. (excuse the fact that it's not quite square in the pic)

The 'A Is For Angel' is a design by Sandra Cox Vanosdall and is stitched on 28 count Summer Khaki Cashel Linen. I enjoyed stitching this little piece but found the fluffy 'Wisper' thread used for the lower edge of the angel's dresses rather difficult to work with. Two strands were used for this area and I though it rather thick however 1 strand would probably not have been effective.

The little keyrings were fun to do and very quick. I purchased them in a kit form at Balmoral Castle while in Scotland recently and I especially like the little "Heiland Coo".

Blessings!

SICK REFRIGERATOR

2010-06-07T17:48:00.000-07:00

The refrigerator's really sick - this morning the temperature inside it was not very cold. Have phoned the serviceman - he can't get here until Friday - just so glad it's not the middle of summer!

Blessings!

MONDAY'S DOINGS

2010-06-07T02:02:00.000-07:00

Today was my volunteer duty day at the Tourist & Visitor information centre. It's a fairly new one which is housed in a beautiful restored historic house. Today was sunny but cool and a bit slow at the centre. I kept busy by beginning a bit of blurb on the house which volunteers may find interesting especially when visitors come in and ask questions about the history.

My refrigerator is sick - it's been leaking water for about a week but not all the time. It seems to be related to opening the freezer door somehow but I can't figure out why it does this. I'm going to have to call the repair man tomorrow to come have a look see at what gives. It's only 11 years young but these days they don't make stuff the way they used to a few years ago. In this throw-away society I wouldn't be at all surprised to hear it's on it's last legs. I hope not - there's more I could spend $1000 on at present!

Am off to bed for an early night!

Blessings!

GRAND-DAUGHTER'S GRADUATION

2010-06-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

This is the time of the year when family and friends celebrate with their 5th graders as they graduate after spending 6 years in junior schools all over the USA. It seems strange to us 'down under' that something like this is done in the midst of our winter season - ours is done at the end of the year just as the kids are finishing school for their 6 weeks summer break.

The hard work through the year is acknowledged during the ceremony and those who are fortunate receive awards, certificates and ribbons and parents ooh and aah about how well their kids have done and how clever they are.

We heard that the hunt was on for the perfect dress and shoes and when finally they were found. We heard about the great tulle bows and balloons which decorated the hall. And when at last we received the photos we felt so proud to see for ourselves that Miss A11 had 'scooped the pool' both in awards and in the fashion stakes. What a proud night for her Mom and Dad and indeed for herself.

With her Certificate, letter from the President and ribbon worn around her neck (what is that called?) she looked so confident and beautiful. Her grandparents are also very, very proud. Well done Miss A.

Blessings!

SUN'S OUT!

2010-06-04T19:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a wet, wet week. A tornado passed through Lennox Head - much further north from here, but it has devastated homes and property in it's wake. Film of it coming was rather awesome - seeing pieces of homes, roofs and debris being swirled around and coming towards you in that mighty tunnel must have been totally scary - but although so much damage has been caused, thank God, nobody was killed. Many however were injured and carry their wounds as they clean up.

Today here the sun is shining - as I walked out to take the washing to the clothes line I literally squelched my way there. We've had a week of torrential rain and storms. But it won't take long to dry out. DH even says it may be dry enough to mow the lawn this afternoon. I've also been out clipping back shrubs and a big lemon tree. I only clipped it in March before we went on holiday but when we got back home three weeks later, the leaf miner had devastated all the new growth. It looks so ugly. Well hopefully with this close shave and a bit of fertilizer, it may produce a few lemons next season. I'm hoping so.

My little blueberry bushes are covered with flowers and buds. I heard on the radio gardening session last week that I should be taking all of those off for the first three years. I'm hopeless at doing that. I am always anxious for fruit. Last year it did have a little but it has grown so much since then. I'm tempted to just let it fruit and see how it goes.

I've finished stitching a little Angel cross stitch piece this past week but haven't taken any pics yet. Also did a couple of very quick pieces which fit into a key ring - little souvenirs from Scotland. Will have to get the camera out and show you next time what they look like. Quite cute - especially the Scottish Coo!

Blessings!

PETER, you'll be missed!

2010-06-01T00:36:00.000-07:00

Attended the funeral service today of a very dear man who hadn't been well for a couple of years but whose life had been filled with great achievements. As a young man of 14 he and his family were taken prisoners in Indonesia and spent 3 years in prison camps. His mother and sister were separated from him and his father - the thing that kept the pair of them alive during those dreadful years of inprisonment was the fact that he crawled under the fences at night and scavenged food for his dad and himself.

An achiever all through his life, he put himself through college and university and gained distinctions in all he did. During his working life he held very important positions in the building of many large Sydney buildings including the Opera House. But the most important thing in his life apart from his wife, children and grandchildren was his Saviour Jesus Christ, in whom he put his trust for so many years. He never waivered in his faith, even in the bad times. He has now gone to his eternal reward.

Well done good and faithful servant! We salute you!

DOOR KNOCK SUNDAY

2010-05-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

It's over for another year! The Door Knock I mean. The weather report was not good although the cyclone predicted was not due to hit Sydney until late afternoon or evening. Took the umbrella but decided to leave it in the car - a good decision as it wasn't needed. I can't say I really enjoy knocking on doors and asking for monetary donations but knowing it was a for a good cause I began in my allotted area. Sunday mornings are generally 'sleep in' times for so many and 9.30am is probably still far too early for some sleepy-heads - especially if getting to bed was early morning rather than late night for them. On the other hand there are hundreds who are 'up and at it', walking the dog, having breakfast, gardening. On a door knock exercise, you get them all - even those who are in (judging by noises coming from inside the house) but don't bother to answer the doorbell or knock. I must confess I feel slightly aggravated when confronted by this attitude - I would rather have people come and say they didn't want to contribute to the cause, than totally ignore my call. However it does take all kinds to make a world and it would certainly be a very boring place if we all held the same view.

I was assigned an old part of the district, and many who reside here are those who have lived in the same house for maybe 40, 50 years and most remember The Salvation Army because of its association with assistance given during the Depression years and WW2 - others are newcomers to the area having purchased old properties and rebuilt new modern dwellings on the same land. There are lots of 'new Australians' in the area and so language is often a barrier to understanding what is being asked for. The recent downturn in the economy world-wide also has had an effect on what people give. Lots of homes with dogs but only one where I decided not to go through the gate. It was big and loud and definitely quite aggressive - I wasn't prepared to take the risk!

All in all it could be said it was a satisfying experience, for all of those who didn't contribute, there were probably as many who did - and that made it worthwhile. A couple of hundred dollars seems a minute amount when considering the millions it takes to run the programs offered by The Salvation Army in this country but if every collector was able to bring that amount in, then hopefully the target aimed for might be met. I'm praying so!

Blessings!

MISTY RAINY SATURDAY

2010-05-28T19:17:00.000-07:00

I could say we were warned - the weather office has been known to be wrong before however it seems this time they were not - although yesterday was grey and overcast I did manage to get two loads of washing dry on the line. Saturday is normally my big washing day so with the weather forecast in mind, I tried to get it out of the way. It was a good feeling last night to know there wasn't too much more to be done. That said, and with the prospect of more rain for the next week, I did a load more this morning and have had to resort to putting it through the dryer. (Here in Australia - and New Zealand, we use outdoor clothes lines most of the time).

The reason weather is on my mind is because tomorrow I'll be out volunteering for The Salvation Army annual Red Shield Door Knock. DH and I usually do a few hours walking miles (it seems) asking for donations which go towards running all the programs which the Salvo's operate for those less fortunate.

The city of Perth in Western Australia has had a very bad cyclone through it during the week causing huge amounts of damage to roofs, houses and trees. The weather office are predicting that same cyclone to reach us here on the eastern coast tomorrow! I'd say we could be in for wet tails as we trail around from door to door.

Oh well, I'm off to have lunch - not burned this time - just yummy chicken vegetable soup freshly made this morning. Yum!

Blessings!

CHIT CHAT

2010-05-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

I was very comfortable this morning, warm in bed and listening to the early news on the radio when I was jolted out of my snuggery by the telephone ringing. I reached over to get the handset only to find a nothingness with the ringing still happening in the other handset. I leaped out of bed but missed the call by a hair's breadth! Called the number back - it was daughter - grandson L4 had been unwell through the night and was still sleeping - could I come to her place while she took E6 to school! I scurried! That was the start of my day!

The weather is coolish - as one would expect when it's only a day or two off the beginning of winter here 'down under' and sprinkling with rain. We've had downpours over the last 24 hours enough to almost fill the pool - which is good - we need it badly. The morning has had patches of brightness amongst the showers but basically its a bit of a dull day here in Sydney-town.

Occasionally I remember to go into my email provider and clear my inbox of all the unwanted stuff that accumulates. I was a bit surprised to find I had over 3000 emails there! It's been a long job but I've now only got just over 200 left - things I need to go back to - one day I'll get around to doing that. Many of the messages are from people who've made contact with me about our family history lines. It just needs me to make sure I've copied all of their information and saved it before I delete their original messages -

oh no! I smell burning - I intend to treat myself to one of my most favourite foods for lunch today - a total break from my recent eating plan - a grilled croissant filled with ham, cheese and avocado! The griller is burning it - nevermind - I turf that one into the garbage and retrieve another from the freezer.

I've popped it under the griller - I'm salivating at the thought of eating it. Oh Not Again!! I can't believe I've done that twice...

I have to run before the smoke alarm goes off!

Blessings!

LAST DAYS WITH THE TEXAS CONNECTION

2010-05-26T00:24:00.000-07:00

The following days passed too quickly. With the children at their respective schools during the week, we had time to wander through shops, sit in the sun, more shops. The wildflowers of Texas are so beautiful - they grow along the sides of highways, out on sidewalk gardens, in ‘yet unbuilt on’ parts of new housing areas. Beautiful bluebonnets, evening primrose, pretty coloured daisy varieties, Indian paintbrush - all so brilliant and showing God’s handiwork in colour. The school where Grand-daughter A11 (soon to graduate for Middle School) attends, has a wildflower garden - DIL had provided them with seed of red bluebonnet flowers which had been growing in her garden, and they were also blooming amongst the other varieties. So, so pretty. A visit to the school during lunchtime allowed me to photograph some of them. A11’s classmates also had the opportunity to taste some ’down under’ Vegemite on crackers as well as a chocolate ’Freddo Frog’! One afternoon was spent watching Grandson A13 playing tennis against another school team. Considering he had only been playing for about a month, he did extremely well - but then he is a born sportsman and does well at most sports - just like his Dad and Grandpa!

Son took a day off work and took his Dad out to the ‘range’ - DIL and I presumed they meant the golf practice range. When they got back we were informed that it was the shooting range - they weren’t sure what my reaction would be if I’d known beforehand! In Australia it is illegal to carry guns unless you have a licence to do so - for instance police officers carry them on duty. I have never been able to get my head around the idea of people having guns in their homes (let alone carrying them). However Son has become quite proficient at shooting as a hobby and every so often goes with a group to areas specifically for the purpose of shooting wildlife. Son and a friend had a great morning ‘teaching’ Dad how to shoot targets! Of course got a photo for posterity! LOL

Sitting out on the deck some afternoons I was fascinated by the red cardinal birds who appeared to be nesting somewhere close by. The male, so vibrant in colour and his paler little mate would fly from tree to tree gathering nest-building material. I managed to get a photo of him but his back was turned - they are so quick and the trees so large it was difficult to just get the ‘perfect’ shot. Other cheeky birds were bolder and came closer to the house. Feeders for hummingbirds were hung during the week with great excitement when the first one came to drink. I managed to see one at quite a distance and was amazed at the minute size. Such amazing little birds!

Red Cardinal

Texas wildflowers Red Bonnets

Our son had purchased a shade sail to put up over his newly built deck - Dad came in handy with suggestions of what was needed to erect it and assisting to buy the necessary equipment then helping to get it up. It certainly made a big difference to the area and with a new outdoor setting gifted, outdoor meals and lounging during the summer months should be more comfortable this year.

The night before we left, we were treated to a great meal at The Salt Lick BBQ restaurant a little distance outside of Austin. The weather was warm and meeting with friends ensured a very memorable evening. We were sad to be leaving the family the next morning but all good holidays come to an end and in many ways it felt good to be going back home and sleeping in our own bed again.

The family at The Salt Lick

Resident peacock at The Salt Lick

Our flight back to Los Angeles was uneventful and we arrived there about 1pm - our flight to Sydney Australia wasn't due out until 10.30pm that night and as we didn't fancy sitting around the airport for all those hours, we took a bus to Westwood Village, near to UCLA and spent a couple of hours wandering around the area. Before we headed back to the airport we had coffee and cake at a little coffee shop. It was a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.

We were quite excited to know that the aircraft we were to fly in back to Sydney was a new A380 - what a huge machine! Fortunate also to have seats in a row which enabled DH to stretch his legs out in front of him - a treat indeed when travelling economy class!

Our son was at the airport to meet us when we arrived at 6.30am the next morning and once home and unpacked, sad to say it didn't take long to get back into the 'normal everyday' mode! Still we were grateful for good health and safe travels all the way around the world - I know our Heavenly Father had something to do with that!