FOR U 2 SEE

It's Been Awhile

2010-03-12T20:55:00.003+10:00

We are so busy at work, Quality Assurance is just around the corner. Always a busy time.

We made a quick trip to Colac in Victoria as my Nan past away. It was great to catch up with the family and a few friends. It just wasn't long enough and it is such a long drive (16 hours). Didn't get to catch up with everyone though but hopefully next time we will.

I have found a few old school mates on Face Book Gotta Love FB.

Abbey is finally booked in to get her P's (Has to wait a little while) I can't believe it either.

Keely is loving high school and playing heaps of sport.

Thomas is hardly every home on the weekends he is always with his mates.

Abbey is loving being 18 and enjoying her Friday and Saturday nights out. I'm not sure if I'm enjoying her nights out specially driving into town around 1.30am to pick her up, but at least I now were she is so I am not going to complain.

Keely had her first High School Social last night. Aunty Barb turned one of my old costumes into a Go Go Girl costume for Keely she had the best time. She wasn't very happy this morning though when she had to get out of bed to go to school and there was a lot of complaining about sore feet.

And everyone loves the nut bush.

THEY CALL IT NUT BUSH

OOOHHH NUT BUSH

THEY CALL IT NUT BUSH CITY LIMITS

And then there are these disturbing photos of my son, Yep that's my son Thomas. After many arguments with his father over which dress to wear, Abbey and I decided that this was the one that looked the most flattering on him.

He has beautiful skin and didn't need a lot of make up but the pink lipstick suited him perfectly.

Now we are all hoping that he will grow out off the need to dress up as a girl.

He made a beautiful girl for the social but I don't think it will happen again, he didn't enjoy having his hair straightened, make up on or even the little heal on his shoes he complained about the hair spray and hated the hair band.

They have no idea what it's like to be one of us.

Just for you MUM

2010-02-05T20:16:00.003+10:00

Here a picture of Keely in her formal HIGH SCHOOL uniform

Last night we were 7 of the lucky 14,000 people who got to see Taylor Swifts first Australian concert. It was fantastic. She is amazing. If you have tickets to see her you are definitely in for a treat.

Not only did we see Taylor we also got to see my beautiful friend Nicole and her little princess Sarah whom I haven't seen for so long. Thanks for a wonderful dinner and night. Love you and your family xoxox

Since my last post

2010-01-25T23:00:00.014+10:00

I have had a hospital stay, Abbey turned 18 (on her real birth date), had 3 weeks off work (not by choice), visited Coffs for Christmas and New Year, Abbey is working, Thomas & Keely are ready for school, I'm back at work & tomorrow I have been married 19 years .

I spent a 4 days in hospital with a sore shoulder not sure what was wrong. I got out on the day of Abbey's 18th (I shore wasn't going to miss that). Can't remember much of it didn't even have a drink, just lots of pain killers.

Coffs was great the weather was cooler then here. We did catch a tummy bug but quickly got over that. Christmas was great and Santa was very generous. Just like every other year, we visited the raceway and the Big Banana. And went to the beach for a whole 20 mins.

I can't believe that Keely is starting High School. Keely is very ready and excited to start. Me well I'm not sure about the whole high school thing. We went to get the uniforms, she tried them all on, then I told her to take them off and that we would buy them another day. I just wasn't ready to see my baby in a high school uniform.

Abbey's Uni offer came out a week or so ago she was very happy to get into the Uni she wanted. She has now deferred for a year. Very happy about that.

And Tom well he is still the same old Tom. Just goes with the flow. But I have noticed lately that he has manageD to tie his dad around his little finger. Tom been getting his way quiet alot lately.

And yes Keely has her uniform and is all ready to start the next chapter of her life at high school.

That's it's from me

Goodnight all

HOW OLD DO I FEEL???

2009-12-10T22:31:00.026+10:00

Last night Keely Graduated from Primary School and today was her last day at School. So High School is looking good and she is very excited about going there. She has a big few days coming up. Tonight the girls are all having a sleep over then tomorrow they go out to lunch, then Saturday is the Grad party at the pool. (I think the kids these days have a better social life then I have ever had well my kids do anyway).

The girls had there 18th last weekend we all had a great time they got lots of lovely presents (I will share pictures later) but I really wanted to show you this photo.

How excited do they look. OMG it's Ironing Boards!!! What do you do with them....It is going to be interesting. Lindsay thought surfing Abbey thought they would make a nice coffee table. I can see they will never get used as anything. But they all had a great laugh and the boys that gave them to the girls thought it was the best present ever.

Now getting back to the question above.

Don't they say "your only as old as you feel?"

If that's true I'm not as old as I thought.

By the way Amy has been accepted into the Air Force in January

Goodnight to you all

Forgot to Share This...................

2009-11-30T22:27:00.002+10:00

Pink Ladies Day is a fantastic day held at Weengallon. The mobile kindy mums run this every year. All money raised goes to cancer research and a Little of the money goes to the Mobile Kindy Weengallon Service for all their hard work in preparing a wonderful day.This year was no exception, we had a fantastic day. We all got dressed in our pink and or pokadots.I thought we all looked great. We had a lovely meal and drank plenty of pink champagne. We did a little shopping and had loads of fun.

Here we are all looking lovely

And once again we took out the best shoes for the day. I love EBay and these shoes. Let me tell you they were very high and very hard to walk in. It was all worthwhile I received a voucher for shoes which I enjoyed spending.

Gotta loves shoes I went to Toowoomba a while ago to buy something for the grad. I was very disappointment that I couldn't find what I wanted but the 6 pairs of shoes that I brought made up for the disappointment.

Can't wait for Pink Ladies day next year. I will start looking for my shoes now.

Bye

From This.......Toooooooooooo

2009-11-23T20:09:00.003+10:00

First there was Kindy were they all first met

Their First day of High School

Now Graduation

Were to next

Abbey is hoping to get a gap year job and then off to uni for a Bachelor of Art & A Bachelor of Education. Amy is hoping to do a gap year in the Air Force, she has had several interviews.

After hours at the hair dressers getting hairdo's and makeup, everyone looked gorgeous. It was so hot that the girls makeup was running and there hairdo's were just flopping, but that didn't stop them from having the time of their lives.

Grad was great they was lots of singing, dancing, tears, laughter and a little bit of partying. About 30 kids came back home at 12.30am to our place we all had a great night and didn't get to bed until 6.00am this morning.

All of the kids wrote letters to their parents and gave them to us to read. They were all beautiful and that started the tears for the adults.

Dear Mum & Dad,

Wow I have finally graduated!!
There is not enough time in the world to say thank you for all you have done for me! For the past 17 years you have both been there for me, supporting me through think and thin, and I would not be the person I am without you. I look back at what you have done for me and I am so grateful, even if I don't tell you enough. Your love and care over the last 2 years especially will not be forgotten. As I look forward into my future I can't help but think you are both the reason I can do what I want.

Love you forever and a day xx

Just wait my eyes have gone a little blurry again, we are both are so very proud of what you have achieved. We love you so much and always will xx
We also had 30 young Graduates come out home at 12.30am for an after party and I am very pleased to say what a great bunch of kids you all are. But I would have liked a little more sleep then what I got. I usually like to be in bed before 6.00am.

Bye

IT'S GRAD WEEK

2009-11-16T06:59:00.004+10:00

What a busy week we have in front of us Abbey is Graduating, waiting to hear the out come of a job interview (cap year job) and only one exam to go. It's so hard to beleive that my baby girl is graduating.

Abbey has grown so much from a beautiful baby to a wonderful young lady. I love these photos of her. She hates the first one. I even made her outfit in the first photo.

Enjoy your grad week and enjoy the next chapter of your life. Love you so much

Over The Top

2009-11-06T07:52:00.006+10:00

RULES

1. You can only use ONE word!!!

2. Pass this along to 5 of your favorite bloggers!

3. Alert them that you have given them this award!

4. HAVE FUN!!!

HERE GOES

1. Where is your cell phone? Somewhere

2. Your hair? Looking Good

3. Your mother? My best friend
4. Your father? ?????????
5. Your fave food? Salmon
6. Your dream last night? mmmmmmm Nothing
7. Your fave drink? White wine and tonic
8. Your dream/goal? So many at the moment
9. What room are you in? Office
10. Your hobby? MY Children Hobbies are a thing of the past scrapbooking
11. Your fear? Death
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? The children will be finished school by then so i want to go travelling around Australia
13. Where you were last night? At home with friends
14. Something that you aren't? As confident as I would like to be
15. Muffins? NO
16. Wish List Item? To Many Health and happiness
17. Where did you grow up? Colac
18. Last thing you did? Put the barracuda in the pool to clean it
19. What are you wearing? Nightie
20. Your TV? Big and black
Your Pets? Cats
22. Friends? Love them all
23. Your Life? Far to busy
24. Your Mood? OK
25. Missing Someone? Nicole
26. Vehicle? Black
27. Something your not wearing? Bra
28. Your fave store? House
29. Your fave colour? Black
30. Last time you laughed? Yesterday
31. Last time you cried? This morning
32. Your best friend? Nicole & Barb
33. One place that I go to over and over? Work
34. One person who emails regularly? Chrissy
35. Fave place to eat? Home cooked meals (That's sad)

Thanks Lisa
Bye for now

Have so much to share just need the photos to be able to do it. Will get it done soon.........

2009-10-27T22:50:00.000+10:00

Keely Turns 12 & Some LO's

2009-10-12T20:34:00.007+10:00

Today Keely turned 12 she got a Pandora bracelet & some charms. She end up with an Elf, a K, Girl and 2 Pandora presents. She was very excited and can't wait to Christmas to get some more. We went out for Chinese with her Friends and had a great meal and a great time.

As promised some LO's One not completely finished

We got tickets to Taylor Swift today. I have been promising to take the kids to a concert for ages. So we off in Febuary 2010. Can't wait love her songs.

Have to go

Bye for now

Stay Tuned

2009-09-30T22:46:00.001+10:00

I’ve been scrap booking

Yep that’s right I’ve been scrap booking

I can’t believe it either

Suzie Rocked, Finally My Car is Back, Happy Birthday To Me & Another Dust Storm

2009-09-27T23:01:00.006+10:00

Suzie was fantastic. We had drinks in our room then went to the Bourke & Wills for tea & more drinks before heading to see Suzie. It was great she came out in jeans and a top then went and changed into her leathers. She looked great and sang all the great song and some. Definitely would go and see her again if I had the chance.

After 7 weeks I fianlly have my car back. I'm so sick of driving Abbey's car it is so nice to be able to drive mine again I missed it so much.

Another birthday goes by. Lots of new Pandora and a watch. Will share the Pandora and watch next post. We went for lunch and cake it was lovely.

Spent most of Friday cleaning my house from the last dust storm. I mopped twice, rewashed everything, wiped all of the shelves and frames ect............... then another dust storm came through it wasn't so red this time. Everything needs cleaning again though. The car also needs a bath.

Evermore played at the B & S last night they were great you could hear them

from home. The police were on every corner this morning Breath teasting everyone. We got pulled up in Michaels ute the rego sticker was an old one but the nice policeman let me off after explaining that there is 153 good reasons to put the new sticker on. It is on now and I can think of 153 thing I could buy with 153 dollars instead of paying a fine.

It's time for bed Goodnight All..................

We Are Off To Toowoomba Tomorrow

2009-09-19T14:20:00.004+10:00

Devil Gate Drive,
48 Crash,
Can the Can,
If You Can't Give Me Love,
The Wild One,
Stumblin In

The list goes on.

Yes tomorrow at 12pm we leave for a girls night out with Suzie Q.
I can't wait Good Company, A Few Drinks (then maybe a few more), Dinner Out and then Partying With The Great Suzie Q

Still haven't got my car back yet hopefully soon I am so sick of driving the red car. Thomas has his football presentation night tonight. Michael is finally working after having 7 weeks off. He still isn't 100% but hopefully being back at work will help.

Haven't had a chance to use any of my packs. The girls scrapbooked last weekend and made these little books they turned out well. Will put pictures of them up later.

Have to go bye

I just found the card with the Tassie photos on it so now a photo share

2009-09-11T18:15:00.002+10:00

Tassie was so much fun. I haven't many work photos but plenty of the fun photos

Port Arthur was great we did the ghost tour one night then went back during the day for the day tours I have been there before but just love looking around and listening to the old convict & ghost stories.

This photo is at the conference with the Tassie Tiger.

Rickielee's favourite "the snow" I know it's a sad excuse for our Mr & Mrs snow man but we had fun making it and then squashing it.

The Fairy penguins were so cute but it was so cold down on the beach waiting for them to come up.

Then there were 3 of these little fellows who opened the door and let us into their world. They were so cute and just followed us around the room

Here is what was in my parcels from Scrap with V Looks like I'm going to be busy this weekend.

Just love these 2 photos one of Keely and the other of Noah

Barb has a new family member Afaf, named Afaf because when she barks that what it sounds like.

Better go and get dinner

bye

2009-09-09T14:40:00.005+10:00

Today was playgroup in the town park. We get to dress up and do craft with the kids. Most of them were scared of us until they were told who we were or they worked it out themselves.

Tanya & John got married on the weekend. It was a great night, the kids looked gorgeous

Abbey did a reading

Tanya Finally has a piece of paper just like Michael (that's another story)

No Longer the Spink Knight Family Just the Spink Family now

The happy couple

Not much else happening a rather large parcel arrived form Scrap With V can't wait to get into it lots of layouts to do.

Have to go bye for now

They Say Things Happen In 3's

2009-08-22T09:11:00.004+10:00

It's been over a month since I last blogged. So much has happened in this month.

Shane was diagnosed at the age of 3 with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy . Shane life expectancy was 13 He was in a wheel chair by the age of 7

Shane passed away after spending 3 days in ICU in Tamworth. Tamworth Hospital was great the staff their were fantastic. Shane went into hospital in Moree on the 23/07/09 he was air lifted to Tamworth the next day, he passed away on the 26/07/09 at the age of 21 . He was put to rest in Moree on the 31/07/09. It was a huge funeral with so many wonderful stories being told by so many people. Shane was escorted by the police for one more trip down the main st of Moree, where there were a few people lining the street. Everyone new Shane, he spent a lot of time in the main street talking to people.

He lived life to the fullest and had great plans to change the world. He did so much in his short life. He travelled overseas, went to the State of Origin games, Loved the Bronco’s and met so many of them, had great friends that would do anything for him, annoyed the owner of Manly Essentials to move as his shop as it was not accessible to wheel chairs( and he is moving into another shop), told tales of how he was injured playing football and that was why he was in a wheelchair & loved his family so much. His brother and step brothers and sisters were so loved by him, he text them all the time, but the love of his life was his mother. Cherrie looked after him 24/7 most of the time by herself. She feed, bathed, rolled him at night and was his arms and legs for everything.

We all miss him so much

Also while were we in Tamworth this happened no one was hurt. They were so lucky Michael seen the other car out of the corner of his eye and was able to swerve. The other person went through a stop sign out the front of the hospital, Michael said he didn’t even slow down. It’s in Tamworth getting fixed

While we were in Moree the week before the funeral Keely got high temps 39.5 and we couldn’t get them down. Panadol, Showers, Nurofen nothing worked so it was up to the hospital we went. After having to eat 2 hydrating icy poles and a Swine flu test we went back to the Motel. Anyway cut a long story short. Everyone except Abbey ended up with the SWINE FLU. We were quarantined for a week. Michael was the worst and made several visits to the doctors.

Today I am of to Toowoomba for the Cruise For Cancer tomorrow really looking forward to it.

By the way we stopped in a Gunnedah on the way over to Tamworth I kept my eyes open, thought I might have seen some fellow bloggers. We had coffee at Macca’s, It’s a nice town never been there before.

Bye

It's a long time between blog posts ............

2009-07-01T21:07:00.002+10:00

Things are so busy at the moment some days I'm not sure whether I am coming or going!!!!

Tassie was fantastic we had a great time the conference was very informative and our few day there were great. We seen so much and ate so much the food was delicious I don't think I have ever eaten so much in my life. I had salmon most nights as well as oysters and this yummy pasta with chorizo sausage in it, so yummy. We seen the snow, done the Port Author tours including the ghost tour, seen the fairy penguins, the Tassie devils, ate plenty of Federation Chocolate and truffles, went to Beaconsfield, seen Sea horse world and Platypus world and so much more.

It's been hard to get time on the computer Abbey has had so many assignments to do and she was up to all hours doing them. (Year 12 sucks so much work to do). Thomas also was fighting for a few hours of computer time.

The last State of Origin was a fab night we had 22 adults and children visiting. It was a very loud night having both QLD & NSW supporters yelling and screaming. We decided to have a pie night (Love the pie maker everyone should have one) 42 Chunky Beef, Chicken, good old mince and apple and custard pies were made. Abbey took orders, Keely cut the pastry while I did the rest.

Work has been very busy, we are redoing policy and procedure books and all of the handbooks. Abbey is coming in next week to do the photo coping (YES....... I hate that Job).

I'm heading to Tweed Heads to start a Drug Trail on the 17th of this months it is a five year trail. I have given all the information to my doctor just waiting to here what he thinks before I start. My specialist doctor has moved from Toowoomba to Tweed and the new doctor want do trails (Very Sad). Anyway Helen is coming with me she is also going on the trail. Just not real sure how it will all work.

I received my CRUISE FOR CANCER tickets this week can't wait for August Nicole is also coming this year can't wait to see her I miss her so much. This is Helen and my 6th year of doing the cruise and it is so much fun.

Well post photos on the weekend (Hopefully)
Have to go and finish my book
Bye

Happy 21st

2009-05-17T12:23:00.003+10:00

Shane turned 21 on Friday he we had a party last night. It was a great night.

Can't talk have to go, We are leaving soon and I still haven't packed.

See you when I get back from Tassie

"Friday" The Deb

2009-05-16T15:07:00.004+10:00

The Deb was great we had a fantastic night. Everyone looked lovely including the boys. Abbey was so happy with her hair and makeup. And she look so beautiful when she was presented. Her partner Matt is a lovely boy, so very funny and very polite.

Wayne took some lovely photos which we have already and I can't wait to see the rest of them.

Have to go off to Moree for the 21st

Bye

It's great to be out of bed

2009-05-10T22:22:00.002+10:00

Today is the first day I have been out of bed (except doctor visits) since Wednesday. I don't remember ever feeling so sick. We had such a great time in Sydney, (Didn't win the Nationals but State is such a great achievement) But I brought home a nice wog. Headaches,temps, body aches even my teeth were hurting.

Anyway I have heaps of photos to share and not enough time to share them now. Tassie is only a few days away. Abbey is going on camp at 5.30am in the morning they are going to see the Buddy Holly Story (I want to go to). A very busy weekend approaching, Abbey is doing her Deb Friday night, Shane turns 21 (omg) Saturday and Sunday we Start our road trip to Tassie.

Thats all I have time for
Goodnight hope you all had a great mothers day

My Bags Are Packed

2009-04-29T21:42:00.003+10:00

My camera is charged and so is the video camera, All I have to do now is be at the airport on time.

We are leaving at 6.30am to get to the airport we are meant to arrive in Sydney at about 10.20am. Or interviews are at 1.30pm we then have dinner with all of the state winners and then Friday is the big day when the national titles will be announced. Not sure what we will be doing Saturday and Sunday but I'm sure we will be doing something special. We do have facials and massages at 5.30pm on Saturday (can't wait for that).

Anyway I'm of to bed so I'm bright and chirpy for my long weekend. Cross your fingers, legs and toes for us. I will let you all know what happens as soon as I can get to a computer.

Bye

Twelve Months On

2009-04-25T17:00:00.008+10:00

To think that twelve months ago Abbey myself and a whole heap of other people were standing on the shore of Gallipoli

Waiting for the Dawn Service

at Anzac Cove

Today we put on our Tour shirts and with nearly everyone who went on the Gundy to Gallipoli 2008 Tour and marched in the Anzac Parade.

Going on the tour put the harshness of war into perspective. The sacrifice that the Anzac Soldiers made for our country was one that will never be forgotton

Thank you for your sacrifice

New Doooo's & A New Outfit

2009-04-24T21:17:00.009+10:00

We had a girls day out today. We went over to RENRUT in Warialda and got our hair done. The regrowth on mine and Abbey's hair was very sad, it had been over 4 months since our last visit to the hair dressers. We all felt good walking out with new hair cuts.

We got a letter from the award organisers to let us now what would be happening. We are leaving Thursday form Moree to Sydney, a car will pick us up at the airport and take us to the motel. Sometime during the day we will have a facial and massage. The interview process will take place that afternoon some time. Then we are of to a winners dinner that night. That's were the new outfit will be worn.

The next day is the luncheon Presentation.(we will be wearing our work uniform that we wear on special occasions.) They were going to fly us home Saturday but as no planes fly into Moree that day we get to stay an extra day. We will fly home on Sunday afternoon. I am still very excited about the whole trip and awards, but poor Barb is starting to get very nervous about it all. But I now she will be fine and hopefully we will bring back some extra luggage with us.(being two trophies & the National Title)

Have to go talk soon

AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-20T16:01:00.005+10:00

We are of to Sydney

WINNERS!!!!!!!

We are thrilled to announce that Goondiwindi & District Family Day Care has two STATE WINNERS in the Fisher Price Childcare awards!!!!!

Barbara Twidale is the State Winner in the Child Care Director / Scheme Coordinator of the Year

And

Gulliver's Mobile Children's Service is the state winner in the Demazin Children's Service of the Year

The National winner of each category will be announced at a special luncheon in Sydney on May 1st

I Just can't wait to go & Barb so excited

Abbey's First Picnic Races

2009-04-18T22:33:00.005+10:00

How lovely does my baby look, her 1st Picnic Races and what a great time they had. Then it was off to tea at the Royal. It's so hard to believe she is nearly 18 it doesn't seem like that long ago that she was a baby.

Nik you look beautiful too.

Had a really busy week at work with Budgets and Re-registration. We are off to Tracks on Wednesday night for tea for the re-registration dinner should be nice.

Forgot to share the Easter photos so here they are.

That's it from me Hope you are enjoying your weekend

Night

Tassie is not far away

2009-04-14T06:32:00.002+10:00

Our air fares are booked and so is the accommodation. Want be long and we will be leaving for our FDC conference. Abbey does her Deb the same weekend that we go away. Her dress is lovely can't wait to share some pictures.

I can't believe it myself !!!!

2009-04-13T21:09:00.005+10:00

Well I have finally done it. I have been scrapbooking over the last few days and have finished quite a few double pages. I can't seem to get good photos of them, if you have any tips I would love to hear them.

The past two weeks have been very busy. Trying to get back into a routine without help. I have been back at work (on light duties) manly catching up with paper work. (YUK) I had to rush Barb and her mum to Brisbane hospital last Saturday. It makes me wonder why we pay the ambulance as part of our power bill, and when someone is sick you have to drive them to another hospital.Michael's mum and dad have been here since Good Friday, they have enjoyed being here with the kids.

I have also been cooking. I cooked a pavlova, very yummy but I did cheat. It was one of these ones from the supermarket that you just add water and castor sugar to. Everyone really enjoyed it.

This is the kids favourite so far Coca Cola Pork Belly we have made it a few times. If you would like to try it you can find the recipe here.

I have a few more recipes to share later.

I hope you all had a wonderful Easter and that Easter Bunny found you all.

Goodnight to you all

I know...................

2009-04-12T22:55:00.002+10:00

I am so slack with my blogging this year I was going to blog more. I can't wait to share what I have been doing. It's just a little bit late to share now. Things are back to normal (well nearly) in my house With nanny and poppy gone back home after 6 or 7 weeks, I am back to running the kids around, cooking, cleaning and everything else that I haven't done in a while. Yes nanny the washing is up to date the folding is a little behind, and you know what I think of the hot little thing that has a board you use with it.

I'm off to bed and I will share what I have been up to in the next couple of days

Goodnight

Some cooking

2009-03-26T09:44:00.007+10:00

Vicki still isn't aloud to go into the house. They are now waiting for the insurance people to come and look at it. The forensic team said that the roof isn't very stable and are not wanting anyone in there. There might be a bit of stuff they can salvage form the newer part of the house and Vic was lucky to have been able to get a fair few of her photos out. They were wet but have dried ok. She has set up a couple of caravans as home for now guarding what is left until they can get in. Thank god they weren't home when the fire started.

This recipe was on Ready Steady Cook yesterday Of course I substituted for what I had at home. They used fancy mushrooms (got no chance of that in this town) they also used different cheese then I. You can find the recipe here if you are interested. It is very yummy, I have even put step by step photos as well.

Nanny and Poppy are packing the car and heading home tommorow they have been here spoiling us all for nearly 6 weeks. We will miss them when they go. Ashlyn and Tianna will be so glad to see them, they have missed them so much. Everytime we talk to them they want to know "Why they are still here when Aunty Tracey is at home".

Have to go Talk soon

What a day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-24T19:52:00.005+10:00

Received a phone call this morning asking were Vicki and the kids were. I said that I have no idea were they are I haven't seen them since Thursday. I ask what was going on and they told me there house was on fire. It took awhile to find them, no one was home, they were all away for the night. The whole house inside is ruined. They think it was started by a water purifier

Front

The side under the awning

Haven't been doing much this week still not allowed to go back to work. Another two weeks and hopefully the doctors will tell me I can go back. The kitchen and hallway cupboards are so neat and tidy (hopefully they will stay like that). I can't believe that I keep so much grap in my cupboards. There not so full now.

Have to go and grab the tissues Find MY Family is on

Bye for now.

Thomas had a win

2009-03-14T18:35:00.004+10:00

Thomas has been wanting to play rugby league for the past 3 years and this year we signed him up to play (sick of the nagging). Today he played his first 2 games and was lucky enough to have won both. The only thing wrong with league is the travelling you do so much and have to go so far. So we have decided on a trail to see how we go.

Made dessert tonight something very quick.

Mock Berry Cheesecake Recipe

If you would like the recipe you can find it here

Bye

MMmmmmmmm..........

2009-03-12T21:07:00.004+10:00

Haven't done anything to exciting today I got out my photos and one of Pips pizza boxes had a look and then another look then packed it all away. I hate being under house arrest, I need to be working and chasing after my children not sitting at home wondering what to do. Anyway that is enough wingeing for one day.

I did make tea tonight we had "Zia Josie linguine with tuna and bocconcini"

The recipe can be found here it was very yummy.

Have to go the footy show is on tonight.

Bye

A little bit tired............

2009-03-11T22:02:00.007+10:00

Didn't do much today feeling a little sore from my Toowoomba trip yesterday. I went to Toowoomba for my annual Mammogram and Ultrasound. Passed with flying colours. Went to St Andrews as St Vincents Breast Clinic is no longer opened. It all took over 2 1/2 hours, at St Vincents it only took about an hour. I didn't do much shopping but mum and poppy had a ball in Grand Central.

WOW was my only shopping stop, I brought Abbey her very own laptop the keyboard on it is great it is the same as the desktop keyboards. It has the numbers down the side as well. And me a new phone (which is very purple). I lost the back of my old phone then eventually I lost the battery out of it.

Bye for now I am off to bed. Going to try some of the new recipes tommorow, so I will take photos for you to see.

It's Been A While..................

2009-03-09T10:43:00.007+10:00

It’s been three weeks since my hospital stay. I spent 5 days in hospital at St Vincent’s it was a lovely stay. Then nearly the first week home in bed. The food was fantastic and the nurses were wonderful. TV was my new best friend not a hell of a lot of interesting shows on, Abbey also kept me in DVD’s. I haven’t been able to do much since I have been home (mum wont let me). My scrap booking MOJO isn’t anywhere to be found. I have gotten everything out then packed it away again. I have gone through my old scrap booking mags and cut out bits of interest and stuck them in a book.

My other great past time is cooking shows. Do you know how many cooking shows are on TV? It’s unreal. So I now have a recipe book which I hope to cook all of the TV recipes that have caught my eye and I will share them as I go.

And of course I have caught up on everyone’s blogs. Thanks Jackie for the Lovely Blog Award.

Nanny & Poppy have had a great time attending all the official school functions. I was still in hospital when these were happening.

Keely had her leadership night & the launch of the Canberra trip. Wearing her badge with pride.

Abbey had her Leadership night & Lions Youth Of The Year

And Thomas his absolutely loving High School does his homework with out asking most of the time. And seems to be doing very well. He had a lovely not home from his science teacher saying how great he is doing. A huge turn around he hated primary school.

Brenda set a challenge to go into the sixth folder in your pictures and select the sixth photo and post it on your blog telling a little bit about the picture. This photo was taken at Green Valley near Inverell They are so young in this photo. They have grown up so much.

And me looking very bored.

By for now.

Another Award

2009-02-14T16:38:00.006+10:00

Breanda sent this award my way, Thank you.

Here are the steps:

Say one nice thing to the man in your life.

I Love that he is there for me when I need him

Next list at least 6 ways you measure success in your life.

My fabulous Family

My Wonderful Friends

Good Health

Life in General

A positive attitude

And

Enjoying my work.

Now the tough part is to choose 5 bloggers which you think "Measure Up".

And because so many of you already have I don't really know who to pass it onto so if you chose to have this award it yours.

The rain has been great our lawn was dying and everything looked terrible. We have had over 3 inches and there is water everywhere.

This will be my last post, I go into hospital for a little stay so until I get home I will not be posting. I will look forward to catching up with your blogs when I get back. There is an upside of this I have a few weeks off work so I plan to scrap and hopefully I will have some LO’s to share with you at the end of it all.

So untill next time thats me. Bye

A Quick Catch Up

2009-02-12T17:55:00.010+10:00

This week has been very busy (nothing different then usual really). Lessons and extra curricular activities are in full swing. So I am running here and then there. Work is really busy as well. We have a few new carers starting and lots of people looking for care that we can't place. Haven't had time to scrap or take any photos but am hoping to get back into it soon.

I quickly took this photo last night the sky looked great.

That all from me have to go and pick Abbey from work. While I remember, Abbey got the lead role in the musical this year she is very excited, she is also doing the Lions Club Youth Of The Year thingy. Heaps of excitement in the house specially with nanny and poppy arriving on Saturday.

Bye

Fires

2009-02-10T08:43:00.003+10:00

Like most Australians I have sat in front on the TV watching the news reports of the Victorian Fires. It's so amazing to hear the stories of survival and courage, and such a tragedy to hear that so many people have lost their lives and homes. To think that whole communities and towns are gone is so unbelievable. It is so upsetting to think that someone could have deliberately lit these fires.

My thoughts and prayers are with all of these people.

I'M SO EXCITED

2009-02-05T20:24:00.003+10:00

Guess what starts tonight, just can't wait

This is lovely Lady Tag.....
Given to me by Jodi, thanks you so very much

Now I am to pass it on to 7 other lovely ladies...
So I will tag

Nicole (who no longer blogs)

My mum cause I love her

Jackie

Sharon

Amanda

Everyone else I know has been tagged already

A couple of night ago I went back through my blog and I would also like to say THANK YOU to those lovely ladies that leave comments on my blog. I feel like I now so many of you even though we have never met. Your comments are very special. (It is also great to know that someone is reading the words that I write)

Have to go it's that time of night.

OOPS luckily there are adds forgot to push the publish button

Noah's Birthday

2009-02-01T18:25:00.006+10:00

Apart from Noah's birthday we had a very quiet weekend. Did a little housework today and a liitle shopping on Saturday.

Noah had a great day yesterday. He thinks he is a big boy now that he is 3. They played on the slip and slide most of the day. He loved his new camping chair and table.

I'm really lovin my new camera take it everywhere with me.

Not much to tell today will talk soon

Bye for now.

Lay Out 3 & 4

2009-01-30T20:09:00.005+10:00

I have nearly done the same amount as last year and it is only January can you believe I have done another 2 LO's & that's four for the year already.

Keely sees Tayla once a year a Christmas time they are such great mates

Noah loves to watch Thomas, Keely and Jack ride the bikes around, But he cant wait for them to hop of off them so he can sit on them.

Not sure whats going on with Keely's hair when she was little it was quite red or a carroty color. Heidi was having fun with my camera today and took this photo of Keely with quite alot of the carroty color back in her hair.

Had a very busy week at work Moree Tuesday, back to Moonie on Wednesday Kindy started again it was great to see the kids and Durrinbandi yesterday a 3 hour drive for a short visited & in the office today cleaning, answering phones & paperwork. Hopefully a week in the office next week.

Noah turns three tomorrow so I will have birthday photos to show you all. Abbey & I are home alone tonight the house is very quiet. Lovin it

Have to go and watch the end of the tennis go Rafa

How exciting I have nearly had 5000 views on my blog. 4525 are probably me

First Day Last Day

2009-01-27T21:07:00.004+10:00

What a day, back to school for all. A few nerves and lots of excitement.

Keely's last first day of primary school (Yr7)

Thomas's first day of high school (Yr8)

Abbey's last first day of high school (Yr12)

And Indy's first day of school with many more to come (prep)

Does that all make sense. They will be leaving home before I know it.

Yesterday was our Wedding Anniversary 18 years of Marriage.

Had brekky in the park and a nice BBQ lunch. I have Australia day photos to share next time.

We had our first soccer meeting tonight wont be long before the season starts.

Have to go, Bye for now.

I Don't Get Cranky Very Often

2009-01-25T20:23:00.004+10:00

BUT, today when the children got out on their motor bikes we get a visit from these people.

Thanks to our nice neighbour across the road. That's OK the kids aren't doing anything wrong they have helmets long pants, closed in shoes and are on private property. Every second house out here has a motorbike track and no one else has any trouble. It was nice for once to have a Sargent tell us there is nothing they can do as long as we haven't modified the bikes and that we are riding them within the time frames. All the kids are doing is having a little fun. They don't seem to bother us or any of the other neighbours. He is a single man and obviously has nothing better to do then whinge. Sad really

Any way Happy Australia day to you all

Bye

One Happy Teenage Daughter

2009-01-23T20:47:00.006+10:00

Today we got Abbey her own little set of wheels, she calls it the "Beast". It is a little Toyota coralla 4 door hatch. We went for one drive a lot of kangaroo hopping happening. Definitely an experience. She has spent the last twelve months driving an automatic.

Thomas is in the middle of trying on his new high school uniforms so hard to believe he is starting high school. Will show him off to you all on the first day of school.

I have started another LO not finished it yet, it will be number 3 for 2009

Hope you all have a wonerful Australia Day.

Bye

Another LO & Some Photos

2009-01-19T21:00:00.012+10:00

We had a busy weekend a quick photo shoot with Sydney and sort off Jett (he didn't really want to play), BBQ lunch (the best steak sandwiches ever thanks Tano), A "lets put the trampoline together" BBQ & a trip out to Bengalla reserve with the motor bikes while the bobcat did it's work to the new motorbike track in the yard.

So today I will share my LO (no 2) and some photos of Jett & Sydney. I will share some more photos throught the week.

That's it from me

My First LO

2009-01-16T21:38:00.006+10:00

Today I finished my first LO for 2009. It is one of the many of Pip's packs. One down heaps to go.

It is so hot and we are still without air conditioning it is terrible,and another hot day tomorrow.

The kids are loving the motor bike thing. They ride all day. Keely is getting very confident on her little 80. She was going around all the jumps and bumps but is now going over them all.She has also worked out how to get out of first gear. The noise isn't as bad now.

Thats 2 posts in 2 days and 1 LO for the year.
Talk again soon (I HOPE)

This year I am going to...........................

2009-01-15T20:42:00.009+10:00

Blog more often, do every month in review, finish all of the packs from Cut & Paste and Scraparoony and hopefully fit into my old clothes again. Mmmmmmmmmmm this will be a challenge for me a rather long list of things to do. But I will do my best to do them all through the year. I have a day off this year so a little more time at home just might help. (I know what your thinking mum). I have started a double LO just need some photos.

Michael & Thomas have been busy making a track for the bikes a few

jumps and bumps to ride over.

More fuel dad.............

Noah loves to watch & sit on the bikes when they are finished vooom vooooom

That's me for now

Bye

Copeton Dam

2009-01-11T16:02:00.010+10:00

On the home way home for Coffs we stopped in at Copeton Dam and spent the night with the Spink family. I have never been there before it was great it had two water slides & and a small pool. The kids had a ball.

Noah loved it all he could say in between laughing was more more.

Noah thought it was funny to drag me around the pool then tip me over into the water. He got very upset if I didn't go under.

And of course Abbey read most of the time. She went on the slide a couple of times. But ended up hitting her head getting a blood nose and giving me a heart attack as when she came out of the pool all I could see was blood.

Holidays Pics

2009-01-09T21:36:00.010+10:00

Christmas Day

Keely was so excited about her phone she was jumping up and down for ages.

The toboggans at the Big Banana

The Jetty Carnival

We had to get Keely of this ride just before it was about to start. She was all locked in and the ride was just about to start, she started screaming for me to stop it. They were very nice and let her off.

We went 9 pin & 10 pin bowling, these photos are from the 10 pin bowling. We had to fill out a form and show our licence to hire shoes do you believe that people actually pinch them.

The Beach,the Pool, Underneath the Tree

Abbey read three of the Twilight books in 10 days everyone told her she was a nerd.

The Wedding, Angela and Simon were married in Coffs it was half Australian and half Croatian it was a beautiful wedding. We all wore Rosemary for fertility and drank some shot that was 40% alcohol a tradition that we all had to do. (I think I could have ran my car on it, wasn't very nice at all). There was plenty of food Anglea's family made croatain treats they were very yummy.

New Years Eve

Home at Last

2009-01-06T08:41:00.003+10:00

It's so nice to be home and to have been able to sleep in my own bed. the girls and I arrived home on dark last night. What a mess the yard is trees down, broken out door furniture, the pool is filled will grap and the yard a mess. Another day off work to clean up. Went inside to turn the air conditioner on and it wouldn't work it was so hot as the house has been locked up, Tried to borrow some fans didn't have much luck no has them anymore. I cursed Michael for staying the night at his parents, if the caravan was at home we could have slept in there again. The beds not very comfortable but the air conditioning is great. We did recieve a call saying the sides of the air conditioner were off but I thought it was fixed. The fixit man couldn't get inside, so i suppose he wasn't able to see if it was working.

We had a great holiday at Coffs and spent a night at Copeton Dam on the way home. I have many photos to share,(TAKEN WITH MY NEW CAMERA) but I don't have time to do that now have to go and start cleaning the yard and looking for missing cushions and other stuff.

Bye for now

I HAVE BEEN SO BUSY...............

2008-12-20T19:46:00.011+10:00

You have to love this time of the year. You can't get a park anywhere up the street, it takes an hour to go to the post office, you can't buy what you want (oops should have got it earlier) and work is so darn busy.

It's been a while since I last blogged, and so much has been going on. Kord's the Jewellers had a huge sale as they are closing down. So I brought myself a nice little clock that chimes and a few other presents that are wrapped under the Christmas tree.

Thomas Graduated from Primary School (how sad).He is very excited about going to High School. The awards night was great they put on a great show, the bands were playing and everyone was having fun.

Abbey turned 17 she had a great night. Trudee turned 20 on the same day, so they had a 37th birthday cake. We went out to tea with her friends it was a lovely night.

We gave her this bracelet not Pandora but still very nice.

Abbey has had such a big year this year with going to Gallipoli, the School Snow Trip and the Maroon Outdoor Education Centre fo her year 11 leadership camp. She can now get her "P" plates which she is very excited about but hasn't quite got her 100 hours up. She will send her book away in January and hopefully have them by the end of that month.Year 12 next year starting to feel old.

We had our second Christmas party for work last night, the first one was for the carers, committee and staff and last night was for the staff only. We had it at Barb's house. Sophie looked lovely and very excited about Christmas

The girls put on a performance singing Christmas carols

We had a few drinks, then a few more we brought on of the Margaritta buckets from Target. Just add Tequella and freeze. It was very nice.

Chrissy and I enjoyed a few.

And look at what Santa gave me at the party

How spoiled am I Thanks you Aunty Barb. This is now my Pandora Jewellery box.

I told Michael that it was his turn this year to buy the presents. I tell him this every year and he never listens, but this year was different for some reason. Michael and Thomas arrived home with this.

And then Keely asked dad to fix the quad so she could ride as well so we loaded the quad on the ute to take it to get fixed. We ended up with this

and helmets gloves body armer and 2 very smily faces. The only problem now is that under the tree is also full of presents. I told Michael that I was going to get my money back on them, he said we were going to have a big Christmas this year and leave them where they are.

I worry when Michael spends money. He doesn't do it very often. Maybe because I spend enough for both of us.

We have had the van out all week packing a little each day. Today at lunch Michael Thomas and Keely left for Coffs. They will spend tonight with his Mum And Dad then head off early in the morning with Gav and Bec. The good thing is that when Abbey and I get there on Tuesday everything will be set up and I will just have to go shopping for Christmas Lunch. Turkey and fresh seafood can't wait.

We finished at Kindy last week it was a very sad day saying goodbye to all of the children. Thats the worst part about teaching kindy. I miss them all already. We got some lovely present, lots of chocolate and some lovely cards with realy lovely notes.

A weekend away

2008-11-30T20:43:00.008+10:00

Michael rang early Saturday morning for me to meet him in Moree for the weekend. So I shipped off Abbey to her party early and Keely to hers. Thomas came with me to Moree. We got there at lunch time. Michael got a cabin at the Gwydir Caravan Park.
While I spent the afternoon in the Laundry washing and drying Michael's clothes. Michael and Thomas spent time relaxing in the Artesian Thermal Pools.

We walked down to the Amaroo Tavern for tea, had a very nice meal. I went swimming Sunday morning it was lovely the water was 36 degrees. I had a lovely time and even got to do a bit of shopping. Michael spent up well.

Have to tell you this story! Thomas got his hand plastered on the 20th November with a full cask,on the 24th he decided that he didn't need it on anymore because it was annoying him so he took it off. So after a little yelling and screaming from me we had to return to the doctor (who wasn't impressed) to get it re plastered. He now has a fibreglass cask that won't come of in a hurry. This one is on until the 27th of December. (HOPEFULLY)

anyway have to go
Bye

It's Stormy & Wet & Still Raining

2008-11-20T17:49:00.006+10:00

Thomas and Keely had a ball at 6.00am riding through the water at the front of the house.

As did Noah and India at their place across the road this afternoon.

No idea when it is going to stop some of the roads are only open to 4WDs. Hope to get to Toowoomba on Tuesday. I will be very upset if I don't.

Thomas had his cast removed today for x-raying and re plastering. They is still some bruising on his had and he said it was sore once they took it off.

So that is his look until after Christmas. How much fun is he going to have at the beach this year?????

That's it for now there is a storm outside time to turn of the computer and pull out the cord.

Bye for now.

It's Still Raining

2008-11-19T21:12:00.003+10:00

It started raining again this afternoon after a very steamy day. It has been raining quite heavy. I took these photos about 5pm.

The water is starting to cover the driveway and the bottom of the house pad is starting to look like a waterhole. Maybe Barb was right maybe we will have 4 inches. Gav seems to think we are going to have 7 inches all I know is that it is very wet already. Hopefully I will have some nice green grass when the sun decides to shine. Fingers crossed wouldn't that be nice.

It's Raining

2008-11-18T21:52:00.005+10:00

It's been showering rain since yesterday, It rained most of the last night as well as today. It has also been a little cold, had to put the winter pj's on. The rain is meant to hang around for a few days. As usual we have plenty of water lying around.

It's great being home early, I'm not at all missing Thomas's extracurricular activities. It's so nice to have tea cooked by 6.30-7.00 instead of 7.30-8.00. They have even been making it to bed on time.

Abbey starts her exams next week. She has been trying really hard to get into the year 12 grad (with no success) , I am working in the bar and the money goes towards the next Gallipoli tour in 2010 (wish I was going again).

I put a new version of Quick Books on my computer last night. It took me ages to find my way around it. I think I should have stuck to the old version. Luckily today I received QB for Dummies (some promotion) it might help me a little it is so different to the version I used to have.

Have to go it's that time of night.
Bye

Guess Were I Ended Up On Thursday?????

2008-11-15T18:56:00.006+10:00

You will never Guess But I will give you a hint..........................................I'm sure family service will be knocking on my door soon hopefully that's it for now 3 thing in a few months

And I bet you can't guess which child it is!!!!!!!!!!!!

That's right it was my accident prone Thomas...........................................
.........after seeing a lovely photo of the break, it was plastered, well 1/2 plastered. Next week we have more x-rays and then hopefully a full plaster. He was at a friends place when it happened. How you ask, break dancing spinning on his head and the landing wasn't what he wanted. They put ice on it and it was fine (so they thought) the next morning his hand looked like a rubber glove that was blown up and a nice shade of black. Vicki took him to the hospital until I could get there. A bad day for me with work the departments were here from Brisbane and Toowoomba and we were also catering for 20 people for the day. I got there just in time to have the doctor break the news that it was broken. They took him out the back were he was really brave while they straightened his fingers and set the plaster. Thomas eyes were dry but mine were very wet. Such a sook.

Thomas was meant to have his High School interview Thursday afternoon, but that didn't happen. It also means no guitar lessons, no basketball, no band practice and no work for a while. (I will be home early every night and tea will be ready earlier how cool is that)

We had a really mad week at work so glad it's the weekend. I decide to clean out the kitchen cupboards and the linen cupboards yesterday and today. (How silly was that) Tomorrow we have the dance concert Wooohoooooo dance is then over until next year. Christmas is coming around quite quickly soon all the TV shows will be finishing and we will be able to put up the Christmas tree. Can't wait for turkey lunch.

Have to go we are having pizza for tea. Michael is away working now for how long who knows.

Bye

Keely's Excited

2008-11-10T20:49:00.004+10:00

Keely pick her first cherry tomato off her plant tonight. There are quite a few nearly ready to pick. And doesn't it look delicious, I wonder who will eat it? She waters her veggies every morning before school and again when she gets home.

What an wonderful episode of Domestic Bliss, it's so good to see so many people pull together and do something so wonderful for one family. Keely brought over tissues all through the episode I think I had tears in my eyes for most of it. And how Special was it for they did up the manaro for dad. What a wonderful family full of so much love and support I wish them all the best in the future.

Home Alone................................

2008-11-07T17:54:00.002+10:00

Well nearly alone Abbey is home for a little while, she is baby sitting tonight and sleeping over. Thomas turned 13 today finely a teenager. Keely & Thomas have left to go to Charleville. Michael is carting grain and I'm about to do some house work. So there isn't much happening at the moment, the house is very quiet.

Bye

MICHAEL JACKSON NIGHT ON IDOL

2008-11-03T20:34:00.005+10:00

Keely has just her birthday and Thomas's isn't far away. Thomas wont be home for his birthday as him and Keely are going to Charliville for Band Camp (nothing at all to do with American pie Kurt) anyway their birthday presents arrived on Friday.

They both got Street Cubes Mics and stands. So Sunday night and tonight have been very loud in the house. This is Thomas's, Keely's is black.

Keely and Abbey really enjoyed MJ night on Idol, they sang on the mics to all the songs as well as the adds (God only knows what the neighbours thought). They clicked their fingers and wiggled their hips, They were back up singers for Luke when his sang his song.

The photos aren't great still using an old camera, anyway have to go bye for now.

I HAVE BEEN BUSY..................................

2008-11-02T13:15:00.010+10:00

I had a weekend with a difference this weekend. No kids...............never happens. They all had sleepovers at friends places. The house was very quiet.

This gave me some time up my sleeve to do this.....................

and this................................................................................

and this......................................................................................

and this with the leftovers.........................................................................

They are all packs from Cut & Paste

This is the new addition to the driveway that I have spoken about Michael is very excited to have brought a brand new truck. He has always brought brand new second hand trucks

It has everything in it from Microwave to TV with a DVD, Toaster, Kettle, refrigerated air conditioner and lots of switches that do "Who knows" Did I mention the surround sound.

Yes that's me in the truck going out to load. You gotta love harvest time. I think this is the first time I've been in the truck for 5 or 6 years. Michael was happy I did a load yesterday (bored because I couldn't handle the no noise thing in the house) & again today. Now I don't have to go again for another 5 years or until I'm bored because the kids aren't home.

Some photos to prove that I was in the paddock for those who don't believe me "MUM".

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY FOR YESTERDAY MUM" Love you

Happy Birthday Aunty Dianne

Have to go the kids are all home now. Bye

A big week....................

2008-10-26T21:00:00.009+10:00

Another busy week in the house this week. Thomas decided to help me cook tea, he thought it would be a good idea to turn the steak after he had turned the steak , one piece anyway it was a quick trip to the local hospital he had about 9 blisters on one side of his tummy after cleaning them and dressing them he looked like a mummy all bandaged up. So the next 2 days were back to the hospital for new dressings then I was aloud to dress them. He decided not to tell me when it first happened if he had of told me it might not have been so bad.

All the soccer stuff is at the auditors looking in better shape then last year hope the accountant thinks so.

Abbey had her last formal for the year she looked lovely. Year 12 next year this year has gone so fast.

Keely had her party this weekend for her birthday there were 8 girls who slept over. They played some games and had lots of fun most of them were good but there was a couple that...................................not as easy as Abbeys parties. So today after hardly any sleep the party is the last thing I want to talk about.

Thomas played in the State School band and the St Marys school band at the Battle Of The Band at the High School on Friday. Not sure which band won the were about 9 of them. It was funny seeing Thomas playing in the St Marys band everyone asked why he was playing with them Keely told them he had swapped schools.

My scrap booking area is now finished and I plan to scrapbook all next weekend (Fingers crossed)

Anyway I off to bed for a good nights sleep I have a photo of Thomas all bandaged up will put it on next time BYE...............

Whoooooooooooooohoooooooooooooo

2008-10-16T21:16:00.007+10:00

I'm Finally back up and running, a new computer with a password that only I know and another computer for the kids to use. Now I will bore you all with a catch up.

These are the presents that I got for my birthday, lots of goodies. lots of Pandora my favorite thing this year & last year. I was also given a voucher from the jewellers for $150.00 which I brought a new Pandora bracelet and a charm

Keely turned 11 and got lots of presents and money, she is wanting to buy a Karaoke Machine. She also got a beautiful Goose egg jewellery box that aunty Barb made, Abbey and I are very jealous. Keely is having a sleepover with her friends on the 25th they are camping outside, I will have to warn the neighbours

Claudia gave Keely a 1/2 Of a heart with friends forever on it. So Cute.

We also have another new addition in the driveway, I will share a picture of that later.

The school holidays were very quiet Abbey spent the first week at the snow with the school and Thomas spent the second week in Rocky he loved it up their and can't wait to go back. Keely didn't do to much.

My new scrap booking area is just about finished hopefully John will be over on the weekend to fix the tables to the wall.

We are going on a road trip to Charleville tomorrow for the weekend. The office staff and a few carers are coming we are leaving here at 9.45am, on a bus from Brissy, we will be picking up other people on the way. Not sure what time we get there but it is a long way. We have a full weekend of training with a little fun on Saturday night. Can't wait, should be a great night with lots of laughs with what we will be wearing. I will have lots of photos to share when we get back.

Have to go and iron some clothes, pack my bag and get some sleep.

We post again when we get back...Bye

Before I go, check out Jodie's blog it looks fantastic

ONCE AGAIN....................

2008-09-29T07:58:00.002+10:00

I"m am without my computer. This stupid virus just keeps coming back now my screen keeps blacking out on me and all the white parts are a pretty pink. Hopefully tonight I will be back up and running. I have had a busy week, my new scrap booking area is nearly finished. The cupboard is looking good. I had a birthday turning 40 something lots of photos to share. Keely and I started a vegie garden, planting strawberry's, spinage, cherry tomatoes and capsicums.

Have to go I'm at work, plenty to do

Bye

What a Day..................

2008-09-21T15:18:00.005+10:00

Yesterday we went to Warialda to get our hair done Keely stayed at home with Michael Thomas stayed with aunty Vicki. Abbey and I had a lovely day at Warialda. We were on our way out to see Becky when we got a phone call to tell us that Thomas was at the hospital getting his knee stitched. So we turned around and came home without visiting Bec.

We picked Thomas up and he was very excited that Charlie had caught it all on his phone, and that he was the only one brave enough to ride the bike over the jump and into the dam. He was all laughs until about 7.30pm when he realised he was in so much pain and screaming for something to make it go away.

Tano rang up this morning for us to come over for breaky, John was cooking a camping breakfast for the kids. We had a yummy breaky of damper, bacon,sausages,eggs and tomatoes. It was very yummy and we washed it down with some champagne.

Now I back at home doing the house hold shores and getting ready for a BBQ tea at home with the neighbours no wonder I never have any time to scrapbook.

It is so hot the kids are swimming and we have the air conditioner on wont be long and we will have the boat out and be going camping.

Talk Soon

My New Scrapbooking Cupboard

2008-09-19T15:53:00.003+10:00

This is going too be my new scrap booking cupboard, at the moment it is spread from one end of the room to the other. I have put shelves in both sides and filled in the holes and started to sand it back ready for painting.

I can't wait to get it finished and everything packed away.

Abbey is off to the snow tomorrow night with the school, so tomorrow we are of to Warialda to have or hair done. She will have to pack tonight or it will be rush rush when we get back. Keely has started her singing lessons and is sounding great, Thomas is playing tennis today with the school. I'm really missing not having a camera.
Have to go Bye

Yepee.........

2008-09-17T21:45:00.011+10:00

I have finally got a computer at home that works, so now a catch up and then a Blog read.........

Firstly today was PINK LADIES DAY at Weengallon it was a wonderful day, we shopped, had a few champagnes and a wonderful lunch.

Every year they ask three people to create a painting this year they asked Barb and this is what we came up with Looks pretty cool i think. A ST George business purchased it in the auction for $200.00. Will show you more photos later.

Jackie sent on to me the "Tree of Happiness" ....I have to list 6 things that make me happy and then pass the tree onto 6 other blogs that I read and therefore make me happy.

1.Doing things with my family.

2. Spending time with my Friends.

3. Shopping for shoes and jewellery.

4.Life in general.

5.Having a little me time to do the things I enjoy.

6.Talking to my nieces on the phone. I miss them so much.

I would like to send the "Tree of Happiness"to anyone who hasn't already received it we all deserve a little happiness in our busy life's. Sorry a lot of Happiness.

I have been busy finalising all of the soccer paper work and checking the inventory. Looks like we may be changing codes next year. I might become a mother who just sits on the side lines. Something different.

What else has happened!!!!!!!!!not much just the usual lessons and meetings. The Relay For Life launch is just around the corner, Abbey will be speaking at the schools to try and encourage more school teams to join in. She will also be speaking about the rely at the launch.

It's getting late and I have to go, I have caught up on my blog reading, congratulations Pip on the arrival of Frederick, I'm hearing you Brenda with the whole DOCTOR thing, it's so hard to see a doctor here as well.

Any way goodnight to you all

No Computer, No Camera

2008-09-10T08:26:00.004+10:00

My computer has a TROJAN virus through it that just wants to hang around, I get it fixed then it comes back again. My camera has not come back yet from being fixed. Even though I have the little one I miss having mine.

Went to visit my Doctors for my 5 year check up, didn't go as well as I thought it would. But that's ok after a few tears, quite alot of tears I'm now ready for whatever they throw at me next. Whats a few more doctors visits a few more hospital stays away.

I'm at work have to go can't wait to lunch so I can catch up on all of my favorite blogs. Haven't read them for a few days I think I'm going into blog withdrawals.

I've Been Tagged

2008-09-05T09:12:00.004+10:00

Thanks Brenda!!!

Brenda tagged my blog and left the comment that I have a very busy life, and yes I do my children and their Friends keep me very busy,so does my husband.

This weekend we are going to Warwick to watch Thomas's friends play league. On Sunday Tano and I have to be ready by 1/2 past 4 (in the morning) to go to Moree Markets with Bobby. Bobby delivers the QLD papers and after a few drinks Tano announced that we would love to go with her. Good work Tano!!!!!!! I could have driven down at a reasonable hour if you wanted to go to the markets that bad. Should be interesting Tano usually doesn't get out of bed on a Sunday till at least 11am.

We have heaps of rain not sure how much it is very wet and muddy at home.

I'm unable to take pictures as my camera still hasn't been fixed. Hate not having one might have to look into buying a new one any suggestions to which one.

Have to go I'm at work and really shouldn't be updating my blog I have plenty of other work to do. Bye

What A Weekend, Jammed Packed With Fun

2008-08-31T18:42:00.005+10:00

Woooooooooooooohoooooooo Soccer is over for another year. And check out the lovely flowers that the club gave me for my hard work.
Very nice don't you think?

After soccer it was of to the school fete. Thomas made his singing debut with the school band singing "Sweet Home Alabama" he was so nervous but did a wonderful job.

Aunty Barbs Birthday is on Tuesday. So today we SURPRISED her with a special day. We picked her up at 8.30am, blind folded her and drove around town and then out to the airport were a helicopter was waiting to take her on a ride around town. After her ride Michael had to have one as well so that Fathers Day done. Then we went back to our place for a champagne breaky that was also a lunch then nearly a tea. We all had a great day and Barb really enjoyed herself.

She was so surprised to see the helicopter there

Have to go and get tea for the family, they are starting to whinge.

They Finally Arrived..............................

2008-08-29T19:50:00.005+10:00

What do you think?.....................All the way from China............................I brought them to wear to Pink Lady's Day in Weengallon.............Weengallon is a little rural town about 90 minutes from home....................They have a Pink Lady's Day every year were they raise money for cancer..................There are market stalls and a lovely lunch with some very inspirational speakers.................We are going from work it should be a great day...............Now I'm going to attempt to make a panel skirt to match the shoes............Will let you now how it turns out.

And because I love shoes so much I also had to have these as well and these and these ,a big 2 weeks of shoe shopping.

I think I have done well!!!! Looks like I need another rake for the shoes or maybe I should just wear what I've got & not buy any more...................A new rake sounds good to me!!!!!

Haven't Been Feeling Well..................................

2008-08-27T12:42:00.005+10:00

I haven't been at work all week, I have been tuck up in bed with this wog. Today was my 1st day out of bed. So I thought I would look through some of my old photos. How fast they grow. This photo of Abbey was her first day a child care, now shes in year 11 and working part time.

How cute is Thomas in this photo, now his chasing girls and starts high school next year.

And Keely always had her dummy in her mouth, wouldn't leave home without it and now shes in year 6 and growing up to fast.

Where does the time go???

So many photos to scrapbook, so many memories just not enough time in the day.

Anyway last day of soccer for 2008 this weekend WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOO. I have ordered the trophies, the sausages, the soft drink and whatever else needed ordering. To make the last day a big one. That means I will have the weekends back for now and hopefully some time to scrap.

Hope to be back at work tomorrow hate being sick and staying at home.

Bye

From Clown To Bikie Chick

2008-08-24T18:58:00.011+10:00

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THE CRUISE FOR CANCER.

This is one of my most favorite days of the year, after my birthday, mothers day and Christmas. We where at the car park at 8.30am looking for bike number 41 of 240 something bikes. Found it nice bike great seat.(you need a great seat)Paul was my rider he is from the Brisbane Chapter.Bikes as far as the eye can see

We all left at 9am and headed out towards Murphy's Creek. We visited Gatton, Laidly, Atkinson Dam and many other small towns before returning to Toowoomba at around 3pm. Morning tea was yummy home made muffins cakes and slices Lunch was also yummy different meats salad and veggies, dessert was 3 different cheese cakes which we had to try a piece of each and some fresh fruit.

Out of the 240 something bikes there were only about 20 that didn't have pillions on them.

Here I am with helmet hair at the end of the day. And with John Helen Paul

It was great to catch up with everyone. This ride was mine and Helen's 5th ride. We caught up with some of the other riders that we have been with. Helen has been with John 3 times she sometimes request to ride with him.

My 1st year I rode with Elvis had a great time, haven't seen him in the last few years.

Peter nicknamed Rowdy as he is deaf. Was great fun he is there every year. And next year he told me I had to ride with him again.

Can't remember his name (Sorry) but his wife also rode so I got to travel on two bikes it was a great trip.

The year before last there were alot of bikes without sissy bars so last year I asked that the bike I would be on had one as some of them didn't enjoy the ride without one.

And this is the bike I got to ride on. My riders name was Bill and his bike was just like being in a car it was to comfortable.

I will post this years photo when I get it.

Have to go I'm dying for a shower and a coffee or maybe a red wine. Bye for now.

Thanks for noticing my blogging splirt Brenda hope I can keep it up.

(7 post in 2 weeks)

He Did It

2008-08-23T14:19:00.002+10:00

Thomas and Abbey both got home last night from camp. And today Thomas went and got his hair cut like he said he would. Have to go Off to Toowoomba for the "CRUISE FOR CANCER" cant wait this is my 5th year. I love it so much
Bye

Dress Up Day

2008-08-20T17:19:00.005+10:00

Today we got to dress up at Kindy we had heaps of fun Clowning Around with the kids. Not that they would come too close to us they weren't really sure if it was Miss Tracey And Miss Chris under the face paint and clown clothes.

I thought I would share some photos that the kids took of us. Don't you love these photos our legs, nearly all of us, and yes a photo of us.

Check This Out

2008-08-18T20:35:00.004+10:00

I will see how long it takes before the phone rings.

I Had To Share This Photo with you all. Poppy is looking good in a wig

Cory said and I quote "i have always wondered what poppy would look like with hair" Nasty hey

Can you hear that?

2008-08-17T15:53:00.004+10:00

It's so quiet in my house at the moment, Thomas has gone to Canberra (year 7 camp) and Abbey has gone to Maroon Dam on a survival trip. So for a whole week I have only Keely at home. That means no dance, no guitar, no tutoring, no sport and no picking anyone up from work. What will I do all week? Well.................. there are the soccer photos and the book work which I haven't touched since 30th of June, I sure there are many more things if I think about it for a while Maybe a little bit if scrap booking if I'm lucky. Keely has lots of plans for the week and has a special menu for tea while they are away. (all the things that the other two won't eat).

Here are a few photos I took before they left.

Keely has had a freind Claudia over this weekend and they have been very busy, Playing Guitar Hero and Sing Star, cooking chocolate cake and biscuits and staying up half the night. Now I just have to clean up the mess, they have cake mix from one side of the kitchen to the other.

I don't have a camera at the moment the kids took them away with them and mine is getting fixed it keeps turning of all the time.

Anyway have to go and do some cleaning and take Claudia home. Bye for now.

Thats three post in one week. WooooooooHoooooooooo

Two Posts In One Week!!!

2008-08-11T21:46:00.006+10:00

Tonight was our Gallipolli presentation night. It was great listening to all the stories and seeing the footage that was taken. Someone videoed Abbey getting of the bus and hugging Keely Thomas Nanny & Poppy we both had tears running down our checks it was funny.

Listening to every ones favourite part of the trip was great. for me being able to experince this trip with my daughter was just wonderful. It was a magical trip, everyone that went was great.

And this photo.................. there is a story behind it.

We were in a museum in Frommell, it was very small and squashy and Abbey said "Excuse me" to what she thought was a person and it turned out it was one of the dummy soilders. So now its a big joke among the few that were there.

So So Very Busy

2008-08-10T20:42:00.005+10:00

It's been awhile since I last blogged, but things have been so very busy . Last week we had the Eisteddfod. Thomas played in the State school band the STORM BREAKERS won 1st for Primary Rock Band. He played in the St Mary's rock band GR8 (not sure why when he doesn't attend that school) in the secondary section (they are all primary students) and lost by 1 point (great experience for them), came second in the guitar trio and also played solo guitar. Keely class came 1st in the primary school class poem and played wonderfully in her first piano solo in front of a crowd. Abbey and the dance girls came second in Jazz and Modern losing both by only 1 point to a group that did the same dances as last year. They were very disappointed. We weren't aloud to use the flash so I have no photos.

Work has been so busy with the end of the financial year and I have been spending allot of time doing endless piles of paperwork and travelling around the country side visiting carers.

3 more weeks of the soccer season. The count down is on. I can't wait.We played in Moree today we had a wonderful time and the weather wasn't to bad. We also got to catch up with Shane which was great he loves to see the kids and they love to see him as well.

Tomorrow night we have the presentation night for the Gallipolli tour it should be fun catching up with everyone and seeing their photos.

I haven't scrap booked for so long, hopefully once soccer finishes i will have a little more time to myself.

Bye for now

Yeah!!!!!!! were off to Tassie

2008-07-19T17:05:00.009+10:00

We have finally booked to go to the Family Day Care Australia National Conference 2009 in Tasmainia. So we have roughly 10 months to save. Work pays for all the conference stuff we just need holiday money.
The Plan So Far..................Barb and I and the kids (except Abbey year 12 wont allow her time of school) will down to Colac to drop the children at mums................Catch the in Melbourne to Devonport with the car on board................drive to Hobart were we will be staying at very nice and on the water and were the confernce will be held. Chris Rickielee and Cathy will over and we will pick them up at the airport. Then three days of conference and loads of fun. After the conference Michael might fly over to travel around Tassie for 5 days with Barb and myself.

I have been to Tassie once before but it was a long time ago (with the School). So the only thing on our list to do so far is the Historic Ghost Tours and the Cadbury Visitor Centre.

Bye

Busy Busy Busy

2008-07-07T18:09:00.003+10:00

What a busy week I have had last week. Barb has gone away on 2 weeks holidays and that means I'm the boss at the moment. Not sure I like being the boss. But we did enjoy a few lunches with most of the staff being in the office. Neen's has the best lunches in town they are so yummy, the only problem being you don't want to go back to work after you have eaten there. We have had so many changes at work with the changes to centrelink. It takes a while to get your head around all of them. And with help lines that you can't get through to it makes it even harder. So by the end of the day and the countless phone call on the changes your head is spinning very fast and 4.00pm doesn't come around quick enough. The block of chocolate we ate help so much.

I Have about 4 Layouts started at the moment and just can't seem to finish any of them. I am in need of some inspiration.

Abbey isn't well even though dad is at home she has been ringing me all day at work to tell me that she has cramps and has been throwing up. Hopefully it is only a 24 hour bug Abbey isn't a very good patient. She hates feeling unwell and doesn't cope very well with being sick.

Bye for now it's time to think about tea and enjoy a nice glass of red to unwind from my day.

34 words per minute

2008-07-02T17:28:00.005+10:00

I found this on someones blog. We have all had so much fun with it. I'm not a fast typer but accurate. Have a go at it and see how you go.

http://speedtest.10-fast-fingers.com/

So pleased it's holiday time

2008-06-28T18:14:00.009+10:00

No Soccer, no basket ball, no piano, no guitar, no soccer training, no dancing, no tutoring home early all week and tea cooked at a reasonable time “I LOVE HOLIDAYS”.

Thomas finely got his new electric guitar, it didn’t take him long to save his ½ of the money. The school band is great and they are starting to sound really good.

The Show Time Concert was on this week all proceeds going to the Canberra trip. They danced, sang and the band played it was an excellent night they are a really talented bunch of children at the state school

Keely got to dance and sing as well.

We had a girls day today. We went to Jacki’s hair salon (RenRut) in Warialda for cuts and colours Keely missed out on the colour and Abbey had her very first colour (I’m sure it wont be her last). She has done well to wait this long I can remember us putting the three shades lighter dyes through our hair at school and then complaining about having orange hair. The things we did! but boy we had fun.

Plan on (TRYING) to post more then once a week. And are hoping to do some scarping tomorrow. So hopfully I will have a LO to share.

I think I have fixed the comment problem so please try again to leave comments
Untill next time Bye

Two Really Amazing Women

2008-06-22T18:16:00.023+10:00

It's so hard to believe that Jane McGrath has past away. How sad is it to see here fight with cancer end. She truly is amazing, and so is Belinda Emmet. Their public fight with breast cancer has helped so many people. Me being one of them. As did Belinda I tried some of the natural remedies she tried in conjunction with the normal treatments Chemo Radiation Tomoxafin and a few other things, they are truly inspurational. So while I sit at the computer with a tear in my eye my heart goes out to their families. And remember you don't have to be over any certain age for this to happen to you, Belinda proved this. Cancer doesn't discriminate

On a brighter note

Thomas played the grand final yesterday of basketball they lost by 1 point but were lucky enough to get a lovely trophy and a medallion.

Keely was very surprised to see a mini piano turn up on the back of dads ute over the weekend. The only problem was how were we going to get it down. It was so heavy. But we borrowed a fork lift and got it into the rumpus room.

So now I have a guitar strumming in one ear and a piano playing in the other. A set of ear plugs might come in handy.

With so much soccer paperwork I had no time for scrapbooking this weekend but we did make a birthday card for Jess

BY THE WAY IT'S BEEN ONE YEAR OF BLOGGING FOR ME

BYE

A Sad Moment

2008-06-15T18:10:00.005+10:00

Friday we said goodbye to our Suzuki. The long weekend was our last road trip together. We have had the Suzuki for 4 1/2 years and it has been a great car. We replaced the Suzuki with another 7 seater (there is always extras at home), a Holden Captiva not sure about the colour, It's Black (even though it looks like a purply blue colour in the pictures) and its diesel. The kids love it.

A little scrapbooking, one of Pip's many packs that I have.

BACK TO REALITY

2008-06-12T21:21:00.013+10:00

Our three day weekend was not something we would not usually do. We had no phone service, no computers or internet & minimal TV watching. Keely missed the TV, Abbey & Thomas were fretting as they had no phone reception & couldn’t talk to anyone on MSN. But they all made new friends Keely met Missy & Scruffy, Abbey met Fred (sitting on here knee) and Thomas loved all of the 17 horses that were running around the property.

The track in & out was a bit iffy and I think I drove part of it with my eyes closed specially when going over the bridges (if that’s what I can call it). The scenery was beautiful, we all enjoyed driving, walking & exploring through the valleys & around the paddocks.

We ate breaky on the verandah both mornings it was very peaceful and the children really enjoyed it. They went mushrooming both days and we cooked them for breakfast.

Abbey drove to Stanthorpe on the Saturday and passed a car & caravan. She was so pleased with herself. I wasn’t to impressed I was squashed in the back with the two littlies.

And on the way home I got to visit Kerry, who I haven't seen for ages. Hello Kerry miss you.

It's Been A While

2008-06-01T22:03:00.008+10:00

I have had a very busy week this week. Monday was work and then training with the department that night. Tuesday was also work, and then I drove to Brisbane. Wednesday I sat at the PA hospital for hours on end because they could not find my chart then they told me to go home and they would ring me to come back that afternoon. Don’t they realise how far away we live? I have to go back in a couple of weeks again, I hate going to the PA I get lost every time. They have lines on the floor in different colour that you have to follow and I still can’t find where I have to go. Thursday and Friday were work as usual Saturday was soccer and today I washed then scrapbooked all day with aunty Barb. Aunty Barb had a good day with one double page one single page and another double page not quite finished. I on the other hand only got one double done. Most of the day was spent cutting out the pattern paper, picking up and dropping of the children to where they had to go and supervising Keely cooking (thanks mum).
These are Barbs LO

This is my LO

a bit closer will but a better photo up later

The photos aren't the best there is something wrong with the camera.

Talking of scrapbooking go over and have a look at Jodi’s blog and check out her layouts they are great. She has been very busy.

You’ve Gotta Love It……………

2008-05-25T17:43:00.004+10:00

When your teenage daughter and your nearly teenage son decide to clean there room. 10 towels, and 2 baskets of clothes later their rooms are sparkling. But no-one can explain were the dirty clothes come from. Are they clean and it’s just easier to put them in the wash then put them away? Or are they really dirty. Solution: Next time you clean your room you wash. We will see how many dirty clothes there are next week. (Not counting on to many I have visions of the laundry basket having clothes in it).

There is never enough time on the weekend!!!! By the time you go down the street Saturday morning the day is nearly over by the time you get home. That’s how it works when soccer is on. I was lucky enough to get a little sleep in on Saturday.

Now that I have had my whinge I feel better. Today we went to the senior soccer at Riddles Oval the Under 16’s played an opener before the seniors started. They had a ball. Then we watched the start of the women’s game. It was great to watch them. When we got home I finished the washing, I will have plenty to fold while Grey’s is on.

I even got a little time to scrapbook. This is one of Pip’s packs

Then I played with Brenda's goody box

I have so many of Pip's packs to do there is about 20-25 of them so I need to get busy and catch up I also have 3 of her monthly goody boxes. I still have allot of the scraparooney pack to play with as well.

Have to go it's that time of the night when everyone is hungry. So bye till next time

Sick Children

2008-05-22T21:32:00.015+10:00

Managed a day of work yesterday with the children in vomiting mode, and today it was my turn. Got lots done yesterday caught up on the paper work, did the Bas’s cleaned and washed very productive. Today was a different story I slept, watch a little TV and lounged around. Came good late this evening and thought I would have a look at the monthly SCRAPAROONEY kit. So I have started a page but it is not yet finished.

Hope to have it finished tomorrow along with the 2 double layouts I started last week. There is no soccer this weekend they play in St George, we decided not to go. Thomas will play in the game on Sunday before the senior girls play. So I will have a Saturday to sleep in (not likely but sounds good).

Have to go the Footy Show is on we have been waiting to see Wendall Sailor &
Karl Stefanovic from the Today Show have their boxing match.

GOOOOOOOOOO Karl.

Untill next time bye

A very busy week

2008-05-18T15:38:00.007+10:00

It has been so windy here today and last night. Everything was blown around the yard even my outdoor setting. I gave up on trying to peg out the washing today and settled for drying it in the dryer.

What a week I have this week, firstly we did the round trip to see the carers in the Mungindi Thallon area. I finely got to go to kindy in Moonie It was great to see all the kids and listen to how much they missed me. Lucy told me she missed me to the moon and back, and they all argued over were I was going to sit for morning tea and lunch. Every time I sat down someone was on my knee it was quite funny. I didn't realise how much I missed them all till I seen them.

On Tuesday night we went to a cocktail night for the kids that are doing their Responsible Alcohol Service. It was so much fun we had to wear a mask and the drinks were very cheap. We tried quite a few different cocktails they were very yummy.

Soccer has started this Saturday was the second week. The kids are really enjoying it. Once again we had over 320 kids sign on and with the small sided games this year it is running really well.

Haven't had a chance to scrapbook this week but I can't wait to do some I have Monthly packs from Brenda and Pip to do. You can check out their blogs from the side bar.

Keely and I are baking for the Biggest Morning Tea at work tomorrow. We are making some apple slice thingy. I hate baking sweet things I love to cook savory things. While Nanna & Pop were here, Nanna taught Keely how to cook sweet things so now I supervise while she cooks. And to my surprise she even cleans up afterwards.

Now all we have to do is taste it. So I'm of to get the cream.
Bye

More Photos

2008-05-11T16:04:00.007+10:00

Megan's eulogy was done on her great Uncle he fought in the Germans army. The cemetery that we went to had a completely different feel then all the others it so was eerie.

As you walk into the cemetery there was a huge mass grave something like 25,000 Germans buried there. The names of the soldiers all around the wall, with about 8,000 unknown.

Most of the cemetery had just plaques on the ground but every now and then you would see a group of three crosses.

Then there was this memorial "Men Without Face"
And at the back the German Bunkers.

Megan finished her eulogy with this "the Germans like the rest of the allied soldiers had no choice but to fight. They also should be remembered".

Have been doing some scrapbooking today started a few double layouts but haven't finished any of them yet but the day is not over.

Happy mothers day MUM we all miss you already. Keely is telling everyone you have gone home to Victoria and is asking what she is going to do without her nanny around. (she will find plenty to do I'm sure)

Not much else happening bye

Nearly Finished Layout 3

2008-05-08T16:20:00.004+10:00

I thought I would get a bit of scrapping done instead of going to the show. So I started Saturday morning after a day shopping in Toowoomba (didn't buy anything just some curtains for the rumpus the kids had fun of course) , did a little Sunday in between visitors and a little bit more on Monday and this is what I have come up with. These are some of Pips Cut & Paste packs I have lost count of how many packs I have but I think it's time I started to use them.

Scraparooney

2008-05-05T16:37:00.003+10:00

Brenda is starting a new business and putting together monthly scrapbooking packs. Check out Brenda's blog for a sneak peak of her new venture.

Yes We brought Chocolate Home from Belguim

2008-05-05T11:58:00.005+10:00

We did manage to get some of the chocolate home but the fudge never made it anywhere near home it was the best fudge I have ever tasted. We even went back to the shop on a few occasions to buy more to bring home.

Abbey & I, as well as half of the tour have had some sort of belly bug the doctors seem to think that we picked it up in Turkey. So we have had a few days in bed. We are finally feeling better.

ANZAC COVE

What an amazing place it is so beautiful. These photos were taken on the beach just around from Anzac Cove

We arrived at Anzac Cove two days before the Dawn Service and they were still setting up. They had seating for 5,000 people and were expecting 10,000.

We arrived at the Cove at about 9pm on the Thursday night the security was very scary, so many soldiers and police with rather large guns . The police and Army stopped the bus as we were just driving in and read us the do's and don'ts. Then they gave our bus a number and we all had to were a tag with the number on it were everyone could see it. The bus went a few more kilometers up the road and we had to get out and walk the rest of the way. We went through another security check were they went through our backpacks, checked pockets and some were frisked. Up a bit further we were given a wrist band to wear, walked a little further to the ceremony area. We were lucky enough to get seats but if we had been any longer we would have missed out. It was so cold we all layered up Abbey and I had 5 tops on under or jackets and wore long johns and jeans with three pairs of socks. Thank god we had the silver sleeping bags they kept the wind off, but about 4 am it got really cold. Through the night they had people speaking and showed a lot of footage of the war and soldiers involved it was fantastic. The Dawn Service started about 5.30am It was great to be there. After that we walked about 5 kms to reach Lone Pine were the Australian Service was to be held. It was a hard long walk but well worth it. we also had to go through more security checks here. This is the pine that Lone Pine was named after not the original but this is were it was planted

The kids walked around all of the trenches there are so many soldiers buried around Gallipoli Peninsula and so many Memorials.

And lets not forget the POPPIES they grow wild in the fields of Turkey and they look just beautiful

Bye for now

Did you see 60 minutes

2008-04-28T19:51:00.012+10:00

The students of Goondiwindi State High School should be so proud of themselves. The trip from Gundy To Gallipoli was amazing, and something I will remember forever.

Hong Kong is so clean and our short visit there was great we went to Disneyland, crossed islands on the ferry, and had a half day sight seeing. OMG it Micky & Minnie

Ypres was one of my favourite places. I loved Menin Gate they have a moving Last Post Ceremony every night. We met some really old people that go every night without fail. We were lucky enough to go twice. Abbey read a eulogy there. This is were we started the Western Front battlefields. I will post more Menin Gate photos later.

OH the Chocolate was to die for and the caramel fudge was delicious. They were waiting for us to arrive.

I lost count of how many cemeteries we visited, but their was still so many that we didn't see. One of the saddest things was seeing so many head stones with "Australian soldier of the great war" "Known unto God" written on them there was so many I can't imagine how sad it would of been for the families of these soldier that have no idea we they are buried or if there bodies were recovered.

Toronto Avenue was the most emotional of the trip. Each student studied a solider and read an eulogy, then laid a poppy and an Australian flag at each grave.By the end of our visit at Toronto Avenue there wasn't a dry eye to see. Abbey eulogy here was H.C Halliday

Signing the register at Toronto Avenue.

The head stones that we seen brought tears to so many eyes. They were truly beautiful to read.

"Another hero's part is done another soul gone west"

"His country called him and he answered"

"A place is vacant in our home which never can be filled"

"Those who new him most loved him best"

"The call was short the blow severe to part with one we loved so dear"

"Nothing in my hand I bring simply to the cross I cling"

"Responsive to his country's call, he gave his best, his life, his all"

This is only a few there were so many others.

That's it for today but I have so much more to share, so I will post again soon.

Only a Few Days Left

2008-04-24T18:41:00.010+10:00

The gırls had a ball last nıght playıng soccer wıth the locals they attracted quıte a crowd. Abbey has a new mate he thought she was OK she even got a kıss goodbye.

Forgot to let you all know that we trıed SNAILS ın Parıs.

I even reach the top of the Eıffel Tower

The count down ıs on only a few days left before we are home ın our own beds wıth our own pıllows. Have already rang and put an order ın for a large juıcy steak wıth plenty of vegıes and gravy.

We are ın Çanakkale at the moment ıt ıs a beautiful place on the beach we catch a ferry over to Gallıpollı. We leave at 8pm for Gallıpollı I hope ıts not to cold tonıght.

Tomorrow we have a 7 hour bus trıp to the airport, then 12 hour flıght to Sıngapore, a 5 hour stop over then 9 hours to Brısbane then 4 hours home. We had our last sleep ın a bed last nıght (Wednesday nıght) tıll we get home Sunday.

OMG WE MADE IT

2008-04-23T05:28:00.005+10:00

Today we reached Gallıpollı what an amazıng place. Can't waıt tıll the 25th of Aprıl beıng there for the Dawn Servıce ıs goıng to be a wonderful experıence for us all. I am so lovıng Turkey the food ıs great the shoppıng ıs great and the people coulnd't be better. I'm not sure how we are goıng to get everythıng home.

We are goıng to Lone Pıne tomorrow to have a look around before Anzac Day. They are settıng up at Anzac Cove at the moment they have 5,000 seats and are expectıng 10,000 people.

The weather here ıs better then France we are wearıng t-shırts agaın but they tell us Thursday nıght at Anzac Cove wıll be very cold.

By the way Cathy ıf you read thıs I thınk I have put on about 5kılos the pastrıes are to dıe for and you eat bread wıth every meal.

It want let me upload the photos so ı wıll try agaın tomorrow

Bye mıss everyone so much

HAVING A BALL

2008-04-14T00:47:00.005+10:00

At the moment we are in Belguim, it was a very emotional day today we visited an Australian cemetary were 30 eulogies were read. We have visited alot of cemetaries the last 2 day. Peter Harvey from & a camera crew from 60 minutes have been with us the past few days. I think it is on tv on the 20th of this month if not it will be on the 27th. In the morning we are off to Amiens then to Paris over the next 5 days.

Hong Kong was great so very clean we had a ball at Disenyland.

The food so far has been great and the pasterys here are so yummy so is the chocolate.

Have to go everyone is waiting to use the only computer here and I feel bad that I'm using it.

I have taken so many photos will share them when I get home So until next time auvior

Love Tracey & Abbey

ONLY 3 SLEEPS TO GO

2008-04-05T16:39:00.008+10:00

Not long to go still packing, well not packing really, trying to decide what I don't need in the suitcase. We leave for Brisbane Monday and fly out of Australia Tuesday. I will try and update the blog on the way around but we have a very busy schedule.

So I will talk to you all soon
Bye
By the way one 1 of the suitcases is Abbey's

Photos that I promised

2008-04-05T12:48:00.003+10:00

A little late but better late then never

The kids loved the Pet Porpoise Pool They were kisses by a seal and a dolphin they also came up close while swimming

Fun at the beach

I'm Running Out Of Days

2008-03-28T09:00:00.004+10:00

Gallipoli is fast approaching and as usual I’m so very disorganised I have started writing my “things to do lists” last night (even though everyone laughs at my list writing. I like writing them, They do help). The house is buzzing with excitement as NANNY & POPPY arrive Sunday sometime. Then I’m sure Nanny will have me all organised in a couple of days.

Keely goes to camp at Talabudra on Monday wont be back until Friday.

Over Easter we had a wedding in Coffs Harbor it was at a resort and was a really nice night. Jacki looked beautiful. We spent the hole of Easter there, we visited the big Banana, the Pet Porpoise Pool, Raleigh Raceway, ate a lot of prawns, spent time at the doctors with Michael and his GOUT (shouldn't eat seafood) and swam at the beach. Abbey went camping with friends at Bingara.

Work has been very busy I have spent a lot of time on the road traveling visiting carers in remote areas. And I am off again Monday to visit some more.

My Computer is in getting fixed once again so will show photos tommorrow, Hopefully.

We Laughed, We Cried, We Walked For Hours, We had No Sleep But Boy! Did We Have Some Fun

2008-03-15T18:20:00.021+10:00

The Relay For Life was one of the best events I have ever been involved in. The whole thing was very emotional and there were plenty of tears. The opening lap was for Survivors then every one walk for the first 1/2 hour then it was fun and games until the Candle Light Ceremony. It so beautiful seeing all the candles light up the walking track. Once the candles were all burning there was a minute walking in silence while showing photos of people who have lost their fight with cancer. Then back to the fun and games for the rest of the night. Everyone walked the last 15 minutes I counted 220 people. Pretty darn good for our first relay. QLD cancer told us we wouldn't get more the 8 teams first time, we had 18.

The Survivor's lap....................... Myself and my two girls were the first through the purple arch. (we are wearing orange Abbey & I were both on the committee) Keely is walking behind us.

Abbey Me Heidi Aunty Vicki
and Charlie during the
survivors lap

Keely & Heidi getting ready for the three legged race

Mr Relay Whoops Sorry Miss

Relay 2008

I sold the dresses and pageant question during

the night. received good money for both

Thomas playing blind soccer. The Juniors won over the Senior soccer team.

Idol Relay 2008 Keely is singing but didn't win

We also had a poker run,blanket volley ball,Yoga, a frozen shirt comp (very funny), movies, bed time stories(didn't work), crazy laps, limbo, lots of games for the kids and plenty more.

For a gold coin donation I took anybody who didn't walk around in the golf buggy. There was also a lady who just had a bone marrow transplant that I took around every hour or so.

The Candle Light Ceremony nearly 500 tea light lit up the track.

Thomas was part of the entertainment

I will post more photos soon.

Bye