Jealous of us? You should be!

Put the f~~king seat DOWN

2012-02-08T13:16:00.005+09:30

I DEDICATE THIS BLOG TO ANY MALE THAT HAS EVER URINATED IN MY BATHROOM AND LEFT THE TOILET SEAT UP

I do not want to get up in the middle of the night (or at any other time) and sit my bare ass down on PISS-SPLATTERED-PORCELAIN

As a women, why should I have have to check if the seat is down? I never touch the bloody thing except (and this adds insult to injury) to clean your goddam urine off it, around it, under it!

There's no argument here, it's simply not ok to leave it up. I should not have to check BEFORE I sit down!

It's lazy, it's selfish, it's inconsiderate and it shits me!

So please be thoughtful and put the stinking SEAT DOWN

School's back

2012-02-04T08:52:00.001+09:30

They're all at school now! I have mixed emotions about this. It is very much the end of an era for me. I have spent the last 10 years being a stay at home mum with babies/toddlers demanding much of my attention. It makes me sad to think that part of my life is over, I'm definitely finished with all that, but am still sad to see it go.

The girls were fine, but I had to threaten to take the boys Ipod's off them if they DIDN'T BLOODY-WELL SMILE LIKE THEY MEANT IT - what a classy role model!!

The five people you meet in Heaven

2012-01-29T13:13:00.002+09:30

I love reading and have read hundreds and hundreds of fantastic books. But sometimes you read a book and you think, this one's a "must share"! (I have also read Tuesday's with Morrie, that too was a great read)

“This book is dedicated to Edward Beitchman, my beloved uncle, who gave me my first concept of heaven, Every year, around the Thanksgiving table, he spoke of a night in the hospital when he awoke to see the souls of his departed loved ones sitting on the edge of the bed, waiting for him. I never forgot that story. And I never forgot him.

Everyone has an idea of heaven, as do most religions, and they should all be respected. The version represented here is only a guess, a wish, in some ways, that my uncle, and others like him – people who felt unimportant here on earth – realize, finally, how much they mattered and how they were loved.”

Their songs

2012-01-28T09:25:00.005+09:30

Each of my children have a song - it's their song. For Georgie, Connor and Harrison their song was something I used to listen to all the time when I was pregnant.

Georgie's is "Cecilia" by Simon and Garfunkel

Connor's is "Follow Me" by Uncle Kracker

Harrison's is "Two of Us", a Beetle's song, sung by Aimee Mann & Michael Penn

Grace's & Olivia's are a little different, they picked their song, actually they just decided it was "theirs".

I have put Grace & Olivia's in because, Games People Play should get you thinking............and the other fills you with a sense of peace and purity. I hope you have time to listen.

Olivia's is "Games People Play" by Joe South. This is a really awesome song - those of you who have done GIY will be VERY familiar with it :-)

Gracie's is.............wait for it ......."Amazing Grace". This is a really beautiful version!

You've got mail!

2012-01-27T18:31:00.000+09:30

My friend Kim (from Canberra) sends me letters and I love getting them. With all the electronic communication these days, letter writting has really fallen by the way side. But I think most of you would agree with me, it's really fun getting a hand written letter! :-)

Oh, definitely the 70's

2012-01-20T21:38:00.001+09:30

Today I'd like to share with you..................

2012-01-18T21:25:00.004+09:30

This website has something for everyone: http://pinterest.com/

"When I'm flying I feel closer to heaven" - by Alicia Sherwood

A day trip

2012-01-10T11:15:00.011+09:30

We found this beautiful oasis west of Adelaide river. The road is rough as guts - it takes an hour to go 10kms but it's a fun drive!!!

Sal took this flower shot - I think she should be a photographer when she grows up!

And just as Glen (over the radio) says, careful that hole is really deep........

Hey look at that - he's right!!!! Of course it wasn't so funny when that stinking water started seeping onto the carpet.

Lizzy

2012-01-04T21:25:00.002+09:30

Mum would have been 68 today, hard to imagine! Love these pics, easy to forget your parents were young once too!!

I'll love you always mum
xo

Kristian Anderson

2012-01-02T16:30:00.006+09:30

Kristian died on the 2nd January. I felt privileged to be able to follow his journey via his beautifully written blog and twitter.

I watched the celebration of his life on line - that too was an honour.

I have always said I don't believe in coincidences. I can see the reason why he may have come into my life.

As I said his funeral was really beautiful, but something that really resonated with me was what his wife said during her eulogy.

I have included two links - the tripple m one is only Rachel's tribute - if you don't have time to listen to the whole 11 minutes, it would be great if you could just hear the last (about?) 5minutes - that was the kicker for me!

I have also include the link for the whole service - if anybody's interested
I have been searching for a while now and am wondering if I have found what I've been looking for?

http://www.triplem.com.au/sydney/shows/grill-team/blog/video-kristian-andersons-wifes-beautiful-tribute-to-his-extraordinary-life/20120106-fauo.html#ooid=YzOG84MzqhWr32ZbuzofBjeSl3BFaAQ0

http://vimeo.com/34940118

Happy Birthday me

2011-11-05T18:30:00.001+09:30

42 years young! Georgie made this movie for my 40th but I had lots of trouble uploading it - then the computer crashed and I thought it was lost forever........

Lucky for me Georgie's room is a cess pit and a couple of months ago she found the disk she copied it on!

Thank you for all the time and love you put into making this movie Georgie, I love it.

Things to treasure

2011-11-04T11:48:00.000+09:30

The other day I was face down at the Physio's and Olivia was on the floor colouring in. She was asking me about my favourite colours. I heard a tearing sound and asked Olivia what she was doing then the physio said open your eyes mum.....................It was seriously cute, Olivia had ripped out her picture and put in on the floor under me so I could see it!

I love my children more then I would have thought was humanly possible.

Leigh Munn's 40th

2011-10-24T12:36:00.001+09:30

We're getting good at these 40th's and this party was no exception.

Arthur and I went as "King Arthur & Guinevere" (to begin with) and part way through the night changed into our Grease outfits. As a surprise for Leigh, we had hired a choreographer to help us co-ordinate a Grease dance and had been secretly practicing for weeks.

It was a very exciting thing to do and an enormous amount of fun. When I find the disk the movie is on I will put it up on a separate blog.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEIGH

Kim Scott

2011-10-17T10:03:00.000+09:30

We recently went to Canberra to help my friend Kim celebrate her 50th birthday. Actually calling it a celebration is an understatement. Kim put so much effort into organising everything.
People travelled from all across Australia but by far the largest contingency was from the NT (of course). She organised so many exciting things - A Harpist playing through out our buffet breakfast, A trip to Floriade, A very talented Bush Poet, Belly Dancers, a Choir and my absolute favourite a ten member Bag Pipe Band. We also took a stream train ride to Bungendore for lunch.

The Bag Pipes were extra special for me because Kim dedicated their first song to my Mum, Lizzy as she used to call her, and they played the song she wanted at her funeral - it was very emotional.
The picture was taken at Canberra Airport (just after she hunted down Kevin Rudd for a picture.........). Her outfit is an absolute cracker and caused more then a few stares................it was her signature outfit for the weekend.
Thanks for an awesome weekend Kim, Arthur and I really enjoyed ourselves and hey we'll be back with the kids IN THE SUMMER!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY FRIEND
XOXO

Happy 18th Birthday Tilley

2011-10-11T09:19:00.005+09:30

I love these "then" and "now" pics

xoxo

"Arts's" - Winners 2nd division

2011-10-01T09:07:00.005+09:30

Alicia filled in for Alysha Collis - As a team, we've really got it "going on", we work so well and our age is deceiving because the younger teams look at us and think "geriatric" but their speed does not compete with our skill and how we work as a team - I LOVE IT!!!

The Dalai Lama

2011-08-26T13:43:00.000+09:30

Molley Percy Crackles Hill

2011-08-17T13:55:00.025+09:30

This is Molley. Our loyal cat Soxy, who we had before Georgie was born (so she was at least 18years old) died June last year and I put off blogging her passing because I couldn't find a picture of her - stupid reason I know.

I also put off getting another cat because I felt that I didn't treat Sox as good as I could have - particularly towards the end of her life. I neglected her and got cranky because she kept peeing in the house, I didn't realise she was loosing control of her bladder because of her age.

Anyway this is Molley, we got her from the RSPCA and she is spoilt rotten!

Arthur finally takes the plunge............

2011-08-16T09:17:00.002+09:30

"Thank you for loving me enough to want me to do this course"

This is what my husband of 23 years wrote to me after having done Greatness In You. I am so proud of him. He did this for himself but also for our relationship and our relationship is so important -because if our relationship isn't working our children will suffer.

We've been in a good place for a long time now, but it requires lots of work and lots of honesty. Life's not perfect, we're not perfect, but we are GOOD!
Does everybody get that if your not happy it is impossible to make anybody else happy? It's impossible to give anybody the love that they need! I'm talking about your children, aren't they the most important thing in your life? They know when things aren't right in a relationship - they are a whole lot more perceptive then adults give them credit for.

Life it too short to be unhappy, to settle for less then you deserve. If you can't do it for yourself, do it for your children.

GREATNESS IN YOU

1800646482

Hey Dad

2011-08-15T13:21:00.000+09:30

Dad came up for a few days this month. We managed to fit heaps in - breakfast overlooking the beautiful Fannie Bay, visited a few tourist spots, a BBQ at the stunning East point beach with some of our closest friends (I was so happy Dad was able to get to know some of the really important people in our life), an impromptu breakfast with Alicia and Robert and dinner at Hanuman's.
We had a great time and didn't waste a second of his visit. Oh and in case anybody doesn't already know - that man at the end is Georgie's boyfriend Luke and he's lovely...............
What an enjoyable weekend......feeling the love dad xoxo

Faith and Courage

2011-07-30T08:46:00.008+09:30

I have been following Kristian's blog since last year. He made a beautiful birthday movie for his wife Rachel's birthday and I guess because it had Hugh Jackman and the president of NZ, John Key in it, it went viral around the world.

This man can write, I mean really write, he has amazing gift, but what astounds me the most is his courage and his unshakable faith in God. He's about 35, has a beautiful wife, two beautiful children and unless there's a miracle, the cancer will kill him.

He's not angry or bitter at God, he's scared, hell, he'd have to be terrified, but not for one second has he blamed God. God loves him and has a plan for him, this he is adamant about.

I find that absolutely amazing. I have learnt a lot from this man.

The other day I realised that I have been avoiding his blog - I know why, I don't want bad news! Pretty weak on my behalf I know.

http://howthelightgetsin.net/ This is his blog address, the movie is on here (you have to look at "previous entries" but the you tube address will get you there quicker.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfZMyHpmhJU

Greatness In You info night

2011-07-14T13:47:00.007+09:30

Organising this was a challenge for me and I am happy to tell you it was a great success! We had nearly 40 people and it meant so much to have most of my friends come along and support me (It was free and was about 1 hour out of their lives and whilst they may not have understood what it was about before they came -and god love them for coming despite this, they certainly did by the time they left!)

Lyall is a great speaker, very entertaining. It definitely had an impact, several people are planning on going to a seminar (one good friend went last month and another this month) which is great because, after they've done it, they'll tell their friends, who'll tell their friends...................such a fantastic life changing experience!

Happy 8th Birthday Harrison

2011-07-08T13:14:00.003+09:30

So handsome!

Wiligi 2011

2011-07-05T12:28:00.002+09:30

Ok so this is a short video of our campsite - it's the one we have each year. It's not terribly professional - I was a little, oh fuck-it - A LOT hung over.........

I love this pic - oh the meat hanging out of Nic's mouth - they are eating fresh crabs.......which were killed before we boiled them!

Kim Hunter

2011-06-28T12:27:00.001+09:30

Left to right: Nicky, Sally, Me, Alicia, Cerise and Kim

This is my friend Kim who I have known since I was five - she made me piss in her bathroom sink once - I only agreed because she said she'd do it to..........

Kim doesn't travel, but she came up in June to help me with the kids while Arthur was away. She's only had one child and she lives with her husband Mike in a quiet little flat...........Can you imagine what that transition must have been like for her? To her credit nothing fazed her and she didn't she yell at me or the kids (I suspect there was some sobbing in the bedroom)

I love you my friend, thank you visiting me and for all your help xoxoxox

My cousin Dayna

2011-06-24T16:05:00.017+09:30

My cousin Dayna Caulder nee Ward is my dad's brother Gordon's daughter. These are her two boys, Maverick 5 and Jett, born 31 January (3 months early - I suspect he was in a hurry to meet me). They are both gorgeous - Dayna is so good at making babies.............she should have more!

There are lots of things to love about Dayna, but what I admire most about her is her strong sense of family and god help anyone who messes with Dayna's family because she WILL have the last word! I know that it wouldn't matter how annoyed she might get with me, she will always be there for me (and my family).

I don't take this knowledge lightly, it really does mean a lot - especially since mum is not around any more and dad lives so far away. She's a beautiful person and we are lucky to have her in our life!

Happy 6th Birthday MaeMae

2011-05-31T14:04:00.004+09:30

The Darwin Ice Hockey Club - Oh, and vegemite

2011-05-25T21:37:00.002+09:30

Reminds me of the Alice Springs Yacht Club........

Any takers?

2011-05-25T21:28:00.002+09:30

You may need to click on the picture to read the writting!

Happy 4th Birthday Livvy-Lye-Loka

2011-04-30T09:26:00.003+09:30

Olivia and her best mate ClaireBear

It's true

2011-04-28T09:22:00.001+09:30

People down south often ask if our leather things go mouldy during the wet season. Well the answer is yes - I took this picture (in February) 6 days after Grace wore these last.......... Cute hey!

Goodbye Liz

2011-04-02T19:15:00.008+09:30

My friend and neighbour lost her very short but vicious battle with cancer this morning. Georgie, Shantelle and I went and said good bye before we left on Thursday morning. I had a lot of love for Liz, she made a real difference in my life and I am so thankful I had the chance to tell her.

This women was truly amazing. Liz and her son John moved in with Rob and the girls (Judith, Imogen & Helen) about a year after they had lost their wife and mother to cancer. The family had fallen to pieces and she worked hard to put those pieces back together. That was 10 years ago.

After hearing that a new family had moved in up the street with a girl about the same age as Imogen, she came up and introduced herself and Imogen - Georgie and Imogen have been best friends ever since.

Liz amongst other things was a book editor and distributor. She introduced me to so many fantastic authors and would make sure I not only had all the books by those authors, she'd also get me copies months before they were released.

I always knew that we could rely on Liz, if she could help she would - we'd often call their house the Lohmeyer/McFarlane grocery store.

Her legacy must surely be the children she raised so beautifully - Judith 20, Imogen 17, John 13 and Helen 13 .

Good bye Liz, you were a beautiful person and I am so grateful to have had you in my (our) life. May you take the love that surrounded you onto your next journey.

Priceless

2011-03-21T09:23:00.001+09:30

Some pictures!!!!!!!

2011-03-20T10:26:00.016+09:30

I was going through my old school photos and found these - It looks suspiciously like mum's given me a "home hair cut" in the 77' one - look at the devil in those eyes! I just want to cuddle this little girl - she reminds me a little of Olivia..............

The middle one was taken in 79' -what happen to all those freckles?

The oldest one, taken in 81', is a bit unsettling - I'm obviously about 7seconds away from becoming a teenager.......perhaps that's it?

Greatness In You

2011-03-05T09:09:00.013+09:30

I have just come back from another 4 days at GIY on the Gold Coast - you all know how I feel about these amazing people and what they do - this is what I want to do, helping people is what I'm good at.

And I want to tell you this......

Most people will argue that they don't need to go to something like a GIY course, but everybody has a past and this I know is true - IF YOU DON'T ADDRESS THE PAST YOU CONTINUE TO REACT TO IT

But it takes courage and complete honesty, brutal honesty - about what REALLY happened and how you REALLY felt about it.

We all make decisions about ourselves as children, in fact we create the person we are now in those first 12-13 years of our lives. But those decisions we make about ourselves, we carry them into our adult lives, they impact on our relationships - the people we love. I'm not talking about our beautiful qualities - we all have those.

And if you say you had a great childhood, nothing worth revisiting - I say BULLSHIT, that's not possible, if it was, you'd be perfect and nobody's perfect!

Who's still living in their story? - "Oh this happened to me.......I can't move on from it". YOU CAN do something about it -IT'S TIME YOU DID!!!

Holding onto feelings of guilt, anger, resentments serves no purpose and these feelings you carry around with you take up space in your heart where love could be!

You can't put a price on happiness (get a bank loan if you have to), you'll absolutely think what you get out of it is worth what you paid.......and a whole lot more.

1800 646 428

Australia Day 2011

2011-01-28T09:34:00.002+09:30

The annual Australia Day cricket match - minus the cricket (the ground was way too soggy). So good to catch up with everyone though!

School's in

2011-01-28T09:08:00.005+09:30

I'll be honest - school is back in and I am ecstatic!! 7 weeks is just too long, not to mentioned, it rained, and it rained and it rained some more!

Olivia started pre-school and goes Wednesdays and Thursdays. I have to admit I felt a little lost yesterday, but I'm sure that feeling will pass.........

Don't the boys take a lovely picture?

Mum

2011-01-22T09:15:00.003+09:30

Mum's been gone 10 years ago today, she would have turned 67 on the 4th January.

I dream about mum all the time, and after 10 years she is still dying in every dream - there is always a feeling of desperation and I'm always frantically trying to make things better!

I'm surprised that 10years on, the theme hasn't changed, but I'm sure one day I'll have happier ones - perhaps it's something to do with my thought patterns......

The picture is of mum, her brother Michael and their mum and dad (Jack and Mary).

I love you, I miss you and remember you every day.

Congratulations Alicia Sherwood

2011-01-07T16:38:00.006+09:30

Congratulations Alicia for your Graduate Diploma in Community Relations AND your outstanding debut article, "Women in Mining" in the very prestigious "Resident NT Magazine"!

We always knew you were going places! xoxo

No, and you can't make me!

2011-01-02T15:47:00.006+09:30

After picking up my girlfriend's car at the airport, my credit card wouldn't work on the automatic boom gate, so I pressed the button to speak to someone.

ME: Hi, neither of my credit cards will work on this machine, it just spits them back out at me
MAN: Have you tried any of the others?
Me: No, but I will - Hey me again, this one doesn't work either
Man: You'll have to take your ticket into the terminal and pay at the machine
Me: Not going to happen, I'm not getting out of my car
Man: I beg your pardon?
Me: I'm not getting out of my car, just press the button your end and open the gate
Man: Maam, I can't do that
Me: Really? We'll how is this going to work, I'm NOT getting out of my car!
Man: I'll send someone down
WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING
Man: What's the problem?
Me: The machines don't work
Man: You'll have to reverse back up, park and pay inside.
Me: NO
Man: What do you mean no?
Me: I'm not getting out of my car
Man: You have to!
Me: Ummmmmm, no I don't
Man: If your card's not working, it's the only way to pay
Me: Well I'm not responsible if your machine is faulty and I'm not getting out of my car, so I guess we've got a problem!
Man: I'll be back
WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING
Man: Maam, you have to go inside and pay
Me: No I don't, and you can't make me!
Man: (seriously distressed by now) You have to go inside the terminal and pay
Me: No, here's $14 (cash) take it and open the gate, or just open the gate - I'm happy with either! But I am ABSOLUTELY NOT GETTING OUT OF THIS CAR!
Man: I can't take the cash, you'll have to pay inside the terminal (this line is getting tedious).
Me: Listen here MATE this is where I'm at right now, I'm not getting out of the car (getting a little sick of this line myself) and am in fact seriously considering driving right through the gate.
Man: I'll get the manager
Me: Great and (me hanging out the window) HURRY UP, I'M OVER SITTING HERE!!!!
WAITING WAITING WAITING WAITING
Manager: What's the problem?
Me: Your machines won't work and I'm not getting out of my car to pay at the terminal

So we had a very intense, no talkie staring contest and wellah! - without another word, and the swipe of her card she opens the gate...............and I drive off.

30minutes that took, but seriously, I just wasn't dressed to appear in public.................

Please God? PLEASE!!!!!!!!

2010-12-26T13:10:00.006+09:30

God and I have not spoken for a long time, but I have done a lot of praying in the last 6 days and I really hope he is listening!

In the 3 days leading up to Xmas I found out that two people that mean a lot to me where diagnosed with cancer.

The first, a neighbour and a friend, has stage 3 cancer and it is inoperable. She is not much older then me and has four children. She is a beautiful person and one who I really admire.

The other a relative. In the last 10 years Arthur and I have really gotten to know him and very much enjoy his company - he sits in the close circle of family and friends I (we) share our joy and our sorrow with!

So I have been praying hard to God, the Angles and anyone else who'll listen - For strength for them and their families, to quieten their fears, for them to feel the love that surrounds them and above all else the power to fight and recover.

Power Lines Supplies NT

2010-11-29T19:55:00.000+09:30

Today, Arthur Hill and Dan Hogan are officially the owners of Power Line Supplies NT.

CONGRATULATIONS!

One Valedictory & one Graduation

2010-11-27T19:38:00.000+09:30

Congratulations Georgie and Shantelle on successfully completing 14 years of schooling!

XOXOXO

Through her mother's eyes

2010-10-29T10:39:00.007+09:30

The day finally arrived, Georgie turned 18 today!

I can remember following her as she waddled up the hallway in a cloth nappy thinking "wow, one day this little person is going to be able to talk to me" - and all too soon she did, and all too soon she learnt how to feed herself, dress herself, ride a bike - all of those milestones that as parents, we are incredibly proud for them to have achieved.

I don't feel sad that she is not my little girl anymore, that she has grown up - because I am extremely proud of the young lady she has turned into - she has a good sense of fairness and of right and wrong and when I think of her, I think of sunshine and laughter - the energy she radiates is really beautiful.

What does make me sad is that before I know it she will be packing her bags and starting her own life, one where I won't be involved in as much, one where I will only know what she wants me to know about. That this will happen is OK, it's how it's meant to be.

I often wonder about the saying "you can't be their friend AND their mother" - because Georgie is my friend and lets face it, there are times when you have to give your friend a swift kick up the ass and pull them into line. She knows when to just shut up and pass me the tissues and she also knows how to make me laugh so hard that sometimes.........a little bit of pee comes out....................

People say we look alike, but there was only that one time when she was hanging up-side-down on the monkey bars when I thought, "Gee, she does look a bit like me". HOWEVER I know she's mine every time she open's her mouth.

I think she has enormous potential to make a difference in people's lives, she has a gift. But at the end of the day I just want her to be happy always.

We love you GG

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

The Pajama Party

2010-10-27T09:40:00.002+09:30

THE PLAN: To dance like nobody was watching, and sing like no-one was listening!

Before the alcohol kicked in, we re-affirmed our friendship and love!

THEN, IRRESPOSIBLY?? GOT SERIOUSLY HAMMERED, AND DANCED ON THE TABLE TOPS!!!

Relay for Life 2010

2010-10-26T12:40:00.012+09:30

TEENAGE DREAM

The girls (and boys) had another successful year raising money for their "Relay For Life" team. They work all through the year busking, baking and cooking sausages - I'm very proud of all of them.

We remembered family and friends lost to cancer, lit candles and wrote messages of love.

IN LOVING MEMORY

Liz Chain
Barney Ward
Gordon Ward
Jim Ward
Collette Sherwood
Maureen McDonald

Happy 17th Shantelle!!!!

2010-10-11T11:35:00.004+09:30

It just is, isn't it?

2010-09-25T12:49:00.008+09:30

BEAUTIFUL

Amnesty International

2010-09-10T09:17:00.003+09:30

Below is a link I would like you to click on. It is a letter to Ali Larijani, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and is about putting an end to execution by stoning.

It will take you less then 2 mins - you just insert your name, country and e'mail address (not published) and click on the send button or you print out the letter and post.

http://www.amnesty.org/en/appeals-for-action/end-execution-stoning-iran

Please send the link on to others if you think they might be interested.

Our Hero??

2010-09-05T17:43:00.004+09:30

I'll set the scene....................

It's night time on the ocean, Damian has just dropped Arthur off to bring the trailer down to pull the boat out.

There are four children on the boat between the ages of two and eight.

Damian decides to take a leak off the back of the boat.

Claire, the two year old knocks the throttle and the boat takes off. Damian falls into the ocean!

Which one of my children takes control of this situation and saves the day (night)?

Harrison, the child that watches EVERYTHING and only has to be shown something once!

I am so proud of him, Damian yelled out to Harrison to turn the boat off and despite not having been shown, he knows to pull the leaver back to neutral then turn the boat off with the key!

He's so smart...................and beautiful!

Visitors

2010-09-05T08:36:00.004+09:30

For the first time EVER I had family come and visit and do the whole tourist thing!

My favourite cousin (on Mum's side) Leisa, her husband Gavin and their four kids came up from Bisbane in June for two weeks.

They managed to fit in quite a bit - including a few days in Katherine staying at Manbulloo.

The picture is missing Leisa and I (the photographers) and Arthur who was in bed.........

Despite having 14 people in the house we didn't seem to get under each others feet.

Leisa did bring her obsessive compulsive cleaning and washing habit to Darwin - I quickly knocked that on the head - be buggered if I'll have any of that in my house!!! I still love her despite this appalling habit!

Wiligi 2010

2010-09-02T15:37:00.000+09:30

Gibb River Rd 2010

2010-08-22T00:15:00.000+09:30

A New Journey

2010-08-08T15:31:00.017+09:30

Last weekend Dad did the Greatness in You Seminar on the Gold Coast and I had the privilege of being there with him.

It was an absolute pleasure to watch the transformation, the letting go of the past, understanding, forgiveness, peace.

For Dad it was the beginning of a new journey filled with love, for himself and for the people important to him, living in the now and enjoying every part of the present!

While walking in the park over the weekend we kept coming across beautiful Frill Necked Lizards and I looked up their meaning/what they represented: Survival & transformation, the ability to let go!

The song they played for Dad was "Love is in Air" - and it was a perfect choice!

Robyn and Emma drove down from Brisbane and surprised Dad at the end of the seminar - it was very special.

I love this picture - check out the carefree young man on my right!

Chris or George......

2010-07-05T22:53:00.007+09:30

I remember the last time I saw Chris alive. I was stunned at how much he had aged and how haggard he looked. I remember watching him walk into the room, ignoring me, but still, despite his broken nose, missing teeth, he held his head up.

I thought it was pitiful, I thought it was incredibly sad, it made me angry.

At one point when he'd left the room, I questioned Nicole about his health, his happiness. She said he was doing OK.

Obviously I spoke to him, not at any great length though. Arthur spent more time talking outside with him. He had a quick play with Olivia, it was nice.

We swapped numbers and I hugged him. The last thing I said to him was - "Could you please get some counselling? I think it would really help".

"Nah, I'm right thanks sis!" he said.

Mum used to call him George.

Two years ago marked the end of his time on this earth, but I also think that surely it must have meant the beginning of real happiness for him somewhere else.

He deserved to experience that, we all do.

I'm thinking of you today Chris, as I do every day.

Love Sis

Random Act of Stupidity?

2010-06-01T12:19:00.007+09:30

Last weekend Nicky picked me up at her house (in our car) after I had dropped Arthur's work vehicle off at their house (he was over the limit).

So we wound the windows down and turned Neil Diamond up full blast and drove slowly down the Nightcliff foreshore, stopping to ask (yell) several people if they wanted a lift.

And if this wasn't bad enough, with Kentucky Woman blaring, in an 8 seater people mover, arms hanging "cool like" out the window we drove slowly around the jetty car park which was full of teenagers, giving them the peace sign and asking them (again, yelling really) how they were - what's crackin? How'z it going? Sup?

The only thing that would have made that any better was if one of our teenagers happened to be down there with a bunch of their mates.

We laughed so hard we nearly wet ourselves. Embarrassing? Yep! Fun? You bet it was!

Happy 5th Birthday Princess Grace

2010-05-31T15:32:00.002+09:30

Nanna Ward

2010-05-26T10:43:00.008+09:30

I had a dream about Nanna last night. I don't remember ever dreaming about her before.

I was crying and she held my face in her hands and said, "It's going to be alright Leigh, it really is". She pointed to a women I have known for a long time and said "she has always been a mother figure to you". She kissed me then walked out of the room. I followed her and watched her walk down the street.

It was very vivid. She was exactly as I remembered - her face, her touch and her smell.

FAVOURITE MEMORIES

Sleeping in Gordon's old room: Comfy bed, crispy white sheets, clock ticking, gentle breeze blowing through the curtains beside the bed.

Orange cake with passion fruit icing

Sitting in the kitchen with Nanna drinking a cup of hot tea on a cold winter's day

The smell of Nanna's face powder

Walking to church then to coles to get liver for the cat's dinner

Chris and I sticking (with spit) thorns from her rose bushes on our noses, running around the yard pretending we were rhinoceroses

Nanna is sitting on the right, dad's in front, her sister Jean beside her and Chris and I. Taken at Kingaroy 7 January 1971.

Autumn Colours

2010-05-17T13:59:00.019+09:30

While at Greatness in You Georgie did her Life Line and something of great significance came up for her.

At mum's funeral a woman Georgie had never met before had a go at her about the colours of the dress she was wearing and told her that the dress was very inappropriate for a funeral. Georgie never said anything to me about it, I guess she thought I had other things on my mind. Georgie and I can't remember too much about the dress, only that it was definitely Autumn colours.

I can only imagine how that made her feel!

So eight year old Georgie made a decision that day. She decided to be very careful about how she dressed and she has never worn or purchased anything other then safe "moderate" colours -crazy when you think about what a bright, happy disposition she has!

The colours of Autumn have been on my mind a lot lately. I have been thinking that they are quite beautiful and were very appropriate colours for Georgie to be wearing to celebrate mum's life.

And as if to reinforce my thoughts, my girlfriend Kim, out of the blue, sent me these beautiful Autumn leaves from Canberra. She didn't know my Autumn thoughts. But something made her collect those leaves and send them to us.

Olivia Mae - Happy 3rd Birthday!

2010-04-30T10:47:00.001+09:30

Don't EVER

2010-04-22T08:47:00.010+09:30

Don't ever:

Pay the $35 bank charge for over-drawing your account! Ring up and insist they reverse it - and if the person you speak to can't, ask to be transferred to someone who can! My argument is pretty easy - I refuse to pay it, they can't justify it, it absolutely doesn't cost them $35, it's an electronic transaction AND you shouldn't be able to take what's not there and charge for the action.............. ( you also need to request they "flag" your account so it doesn't happen again - they will tell you it's not guaranteed to stop it, but that's crap, it does!)

Pay the late payment fee Telstra charge! Ring them for a lengthy,but polite discussion. These people get bonuses etc for the amount of customers they can get through in a day, so anything more then 2-3 minutes starts affecting their bonuses. So you need to get them to explain the charge, justify the charge, read you the "policy" then (and this always throws them) ask that they explain the formula that was used to come to that particular charge! Normally I don't even have to go that far, but if you do and that doesn't work, suggest they put you on to somebody who can satisfy your request - you'll need to start the process again but that's OK because supervisors have even less time!

Hand the $26 worth of baramundi back over the deli counter (at Woolworths) complaining that you were over charged - be smart about it and let them scan it at the checkout , point it out and get it for free - I AM STILL EATING MY SELF UP OVER THIS MOMENTARY LAPSE OF JUDGEMENT!!!

Finally - Don't EVER let me look after your finances because as an accountant.........I'm a fantastic mum!

Forgiveness

2010-04-21T09:33:00.017+09:30

A few weeks ago I ran into a women I had worked with for about 4 years. This women made my life an absolute misery. She was horrible beyond description, had double standards and regularly lied to me and about me. Someone said to me the other day "it couldn't have been that bad, you were there for 4 years". What they didn't understand was that by the time I did leave (to Tennant Creek) I had absolutely no self-confidence and very little self-esteem, so had it not been for the move, who knows when I would have had courage to apply for another job!

YES people, I do acknowledge that "I allowed it to happen!" - Jeez can you imagine someone trying to do that to me NOW?

It had been 14 years since I'd laid eyes on her, and in that time I have had many conversations (in my head) with her - all of them very ugly!

But as I spoke to her I felt an overwhelming feeling that the tables had turned. I was no longer that 23 year old who allowed her to walk all over me. I know who I am and in which (exciting) direction my life is going!

This women was almost desperate in her efforts to convince me of just how happy she is! But nothing has changed in her world. Happy people don't need to do what she did to me and she is still that same person, I could feel that.

I walked away feeling amazed that she no longer made me feel like she used to, but a little part of me was saying I should have let her have it! But I know it's time to forgive her and that does not mean condoning her behaviour. It 's time I was free of the anger I feel towards her! And I know this to be true.............

FORGIVENESS IS A GIFT YOU GIVE TO YOURSELF!

Well that's where I'm at - I don't expect it will take too many conversations with myself in the mirror, she really isn't worth holding onto it any longer!

Greatness In You - part 2

2010-04-15T15:35:00.004+09:30

Georgie and I did The Greatness In You seminar last week. In my mind I was really just taking Georgie because I had taken Shantelle in February - obviously I knew she would learn a lot and come back with some real tools and skills to deal with life. But I arrogantly didn't think she really needed to do something like this!

What an incredibly stupid assumption I made - was she once a child? YES!

She has not changed, she is still the same person. The difference is now she knows her own reality. She now has a choice on how she deals with situations because she understands what she is capable of - her true self (how we were born) and the one we all create to protect us - the false self!

It's a very interesting process. My biggest goal is to become a facilitator and I have been working towards this end - but this is the company I want to be involved in.

SOOOO, I can't tell you how excited I was when they thanked me for my help and input and asked if there was anything they could do for me! HOLY CRAP!! No, for now I will keep reading and watching and doing my best to get people to their seminars. I am also organising an information seminar in Darwin (they've never been to the NT before) and am very excited about it.

There isn't anyone I know who wouldn't benefit from attending The Greatness In You. http://greatnessinyou.com.au/

LIFE IS ABOUT

LIVING

LOVING

LAUGHING

Renaisance Exhibition

2010-03-23T13:35:00.014+09:30

These are just some of my friend Kim's (Scott) art work - I have stolen the pictures from her blog site, I'm sure she won't mind! She is incredibly talented and seems to be able to turn anything she lays her hands on into something special.

She lives in Canberra but on the weekend, Kim, her sister Simone and her niece Lauren held an exhibition in Katherine,which we all went down for!

The pieces I have above were there - the top is a photograph titled "Misty Morning" (she gave me a canvas copy for my birthday - beautiful). The middle picture is an example of her collection of Haiku (a traditional Japanese poetry) - it's very clever! The bottom is a collection of little drawings - "kids at play" - I don't think she'll mind me boasting on her behalf that this was the first item to sell for $1000.

My girls knocked over a painting of "Devil's Gate" (Kakadu) that had just been auctioned for $400 and in Arthur's effort to stop it from falling to the ground he covered it with beer!!! And being the "top bloke" that he is, he grabbed the girls and bolted outside leaving me to deal with it. Lucky for us Kim and Simone just laughed and declared that it was now officially a "Real Territory Picture" - Kim kindly took the picture of me franticly cleaning it!

Congratulations Kim, I just know this is the first of many successful exhibitions. xo

Happy 40th Birthday Art!

2010-03-16T19:18:00.020+09:30

Last Saturday about 40 of us got together to celebrate Arthur's 40th birthday. Arthur had a few surprise visitors - his Uncle John from Roma, and our good friends Tony & Jean from Adelaide.

You know your having a good time when the police turn up - Arthur told them we would turn the music down, no they said - "it's 2.30 mate, how about you turn it off"? AS IF!!!

Would you be surprised if I told you it was Georgie who kept turning the music down? Bloody hell, we ended up telling her that if it continued she'd be grounded INDEFINITELY!!

Since we had most of the neighbours at our house, the complaint obviously came from one of the ones that didn't get an invite - I have no doubt they were actually enjoying the music,but they were clearly pissed that they weren't invited!

We didn't get any group shots, so I have just put up some random pics. The dancing one is us doing a seriously bad rendition of "Let's do the Time Warp again" at about 3.30 in the morning.

I did a speech (a challenge) - I said what an amazingly positive impact going to Cre8 had on our relationship and on our family and that we'd made a commitment to do maintenance (real work - not just "spending time together") on our relationship at least once a year. Of course I also told everyone what a incredible person, wonderful husband and wonderful father Arthur was!

A big thank you to Georgie who not only cleaned while we were all still partying but also doubled as chauffeur for everybody!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ARTHUR

love your family

xoxo

Art's 40th Birthday Movie

2010-03-16T19:14:00.001+09:30

I made this movie for Arthur's 40th - you absolutely need sound - crank it up!! ENJOY!!!!!. Remember - hit play, then pause while it downloads. xo

Greatness In You

2010-02-23T10:03:00.015+09:30

Last week Shantelle and I attended a course on the Gold Coast, "The Greatness In You". http://greatnessinyou.com.au/

I had heard wonderful things about this program, had in fact encouraged my cousin Leisa and her husband Gavin to go (which they did in December).

I needed Shantelle to really look at her life (the past) and make the connection between that and what was happening in her life now and how it affected the choices she was making.

I also knew that I would get something out of it.

You all know what an amazing life change "Cre8" was for me and honestly, I would not have thought ANYTHING could have topped it!

But I hadn't attended GREATNESS IN YOU!! (FYI, the founders of Cre8 started out doing GIY)
Did we unpack our backpacks? Did we take those suckers off and shake the shit out of them? (quite clearly I'd kept a little keepsake in mine!) You bet we did! The process is very emotional, confronting, painful and exhilarating.

I don't know anyone that wouldn't benefit from doing this course - it brings about a shift in how you feel about yourself, your life and other people! I know lots of people experiencing emotional pain and whether they'd admit it or not, it runs their life!

I'm taking Georgie in April, I'm so excited for her!

The absolute freedom and joy that comes from dealing with and dumping your shit is priceless - it's freedom!

YOUR TRUTH = YOUR FREEDOM

Fire man sam? No, Robert!

2010-02-10T10:20:00.000+09:30

Robert works at the airport as a fire fighter and last week he took the kids and I on a tour. We went through the station, up into the tower and then for a ride in the fire truck. Obviously the truck was the favourite part for the kids and they had heaps of fun firing the water gun on the roof.

My intention was to wait in the car, but Robert wasn't having a bar of that - which turned out great because I actually think I enjoyed it more then the kids! Have I mentioned the very hot looking fire fighters that were there??? If I didn't get to see or do anything else on that tour I would have been happy with just that..................

School's In.............

2010-01-27T21:17:00.004+09:30

School's back in, and whilst I always feel that the 4 weeks in the middle of the year is definitely not long enough, I equally feel that the 7, SEVEN weeks at the end of the year is far, far too long - I think it's the weather or something, it's too hot or, I don't know, maybe it's the parenting!

Miss Grace is in Transition, so is finally going to the same school as the boys - she was very excited!

Olivia's picture is unrelated, I just didn't want her to feel left out!

Australia Day 2010

2010-01-26T19:16:00.004+09:30

We celebrated Australia Day with a BBQ and cricket match at Lee Point (beach). I can't remember the last time I had a game of cricked - even the little kids had a go! Alicia & Robert and Monique & Aaron had left by the time the obligatory "group" shot was taken!

A beautiful day, great friends and as always, loads of FUN!

highland cathedral

2010-01-22T00:56:00.001+09:30

Mum visited England and Scotland a couple of times, the last was August 99. Her favourite place was Scotland and without a doubt one of the biggest highlights in her life was seeing the Edinburgh Military Tattoo live at Edinburgh Castle.

This was the song she wanted at her funeral.

9 years ago today

2010-01-22T00:01:00.007+09:30

It's mum's anniversary today. She didn't ever talk to me about the fact that she was dying, and I certainly didn't have the courage bring it up.

The only thing she spoke to me about was that she wanted "Highland Cathedral" by the Royal Scots Dragoon played as they lowered her into the ground.

Sadly someone left the tape player in the sun and when the time came, it wouldn't play. It still upsets me to think that the only thing she could bring herself to ask for was ruined. I wish I had of had the nous to ask someone to play it on their car stereo!

A couple of days after the funeral, Arthur, Georgie and I, and mum's best friend Maureen went to her grave with the stereo and played it for her. And you know what happened? It was a really hot day, but the coolest breeze wrapped itself around us and I'm sure mum was saying thank you.

I love you Mum!
Missing you more each day!

Oh! That feeling!

2010-01-19T20:38:00.006+09:30

My girlfriend Nicky was trying to explain something to me and she said:

"You know, like when your sitting by the pool, on a really hot day in your bikinis and eating a mango with the juices running down your front!

I get it!

Hairdressing, Territory Style

2010-01-16T17:56:00.005+09:30

This is my friend Katherine doing GG's hair in her makeshift salon, our back yard!

Yes I know the pool is green!

Gracie's leg

2010-01-07T16:21:00.001+09:30

We took Grace to have her cast removed yesterday and it was horrible. She was terrified - shaking, sweating profusely and screaming like they were cutting her leg off! Nobody told me she might react like that!

Anyway, only one of the bones has started to heal - the other is just as broken as the day she broke it! It's also still very swollen and there is an ugly green sore under her foot. We see the doctor again in two weeks, but next week they need to cut the cast off (then replace it) to check the sore - do you think Gracie's mummy will be drugging her before she goes to that appointment?? YOU BET SHE WILL BE!!

Mum

2010-01-04T15:47:00.007+09:30

Mum would have been 66 today. The pictures are of her and her brother Michael and the other is of mum at her Debutante Ball.

Happy Birthday Mum

I love you and miss you!

Mr Connor's 8!

2010-01-01T14:12:00.002+09:30

We had Connor's birthday party on New Year's Eve and would you believe it............it (unexpectedly) turned into one-hell-of-a-New Year's Eve Party that didn't finish until 4.30!

The kids had a great time - there seemed to be A LOT of them, but we barely saw them!

By about 1am there were only a few of us left - Nic & Grayson, Nicky & Damien and Arthur and I, but we made up for it - We danced and sang and had the most fantastic time! We had so much fun. I love that we're all comfortable enough with each other to do this - but what a sight it must have been - Georgie and Shantelle kept using the word "classy" - go figure!

And a big thank you to Georgie and Shantelle for the early morning snacks and the taxi service AND Georgie got up early and made us bacon and eggs, that Arthur couldn't eat (he thinks someone spiked his alcohol with alcohol).

Last year was fantastic, I can't wait to see what this year brings us!

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY GORGEOUS BOY"

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Xmas

2009-12-29T21:09:00.002+09:30

Well Xmas came and went in the blink of an eye again - there's always this major frenzie (because I religiously leave everything to the last minute) and then...............it's over!

We travelled down to Manbulloo on Xmas eve and spent 4 days there. We had breakfast at Brian's (Bronwyn's husband) parents house followed by a lovely lunch at Bronwyn and Brian's - I managed to swan around in the kitchen for a while contributing very little (something I have perfected from dad), however I did clean up.

Our friends Leigh, Shane and the kids came down on Boxing day and Brian (Arthur's dad) had organised lots of exciting things for us todo - two HUGE bon fires (you never grow out of being a fire bug), horse riding and trekking through the paddocks to see the brand new poddie calfs - they were very beautiful!

As always we had a great time and sharing Manbulloo with our friends made it even more special!

The spitefull postie strikes again

2009-12-18T08:00:00.007+09:30

He calls me out a few weeks ago to complain that when my gates are open he can't get a clear run down the foot path - OK I said, fair enough.............I'll be more conscientious with closing the gates in future (bloody cry-baby).

Last week, it's pissing (or raining heavily) down with rain and I'd opened the gates in preparation for our departure. Two minutes later the postie is in my driveway peeping his poxy-girly-swat horn. I grab Gracie, who's in the wheel chair, and plough through the cluster of kids (sorry guys) standing in the doorway, over the top of Georgie's feet out to the car..................yes I have unashamedly used the wheel chair angle again!

"What? Mate? WHAT's the problem?

"Your gate's open and it's difficult to get your mail in the letter box!"

"Really? It's pissing down with rain and you call me out to tell me that? Clearly I am going out and have opened the gate to facilitate my exit - how else do you suggest I get out of my drive way? Fly over the gate perhaps?"

"Well it's illegal, I should be able to drive down your footpath without obstruction".

OH PLEASE!!! "Hey, here's an idea, how about you push the gate out of your way? I KNOW you can do that, you did that to me the other day as I was reversing out of the driveway and I nearly ran into it!"

"I've had a gut-full of you (articulate aren't I?) this is harassment, your an idiot and I'm putting in a formal complaint"

So, with the kids waiting in the car I spent 30mins lodging my complaint with Australia Post who assured me someone would get back to me within 24 hours - oh, sure, it's been a week and nothing!

And as I watched him drive off down the foot path, there was a little part of me that hoped he would fall off his bike - just a tiny bit!

You know what? I think he likes me!

The Xmas Tree

2009-12-18T06:57:00.005+09:30

Gracie and I found a beautiful (purple) Xmas tree in Big W, however the display one was the only one left.

I told the "Xmas" staffer that I wanted that tree. She told me they don't normally sell them until just before Xmas. OK, I said, well can you ask the manager for me anyway cause I reckon it's worth a shot....................

And when your talking to the manager can you tell him this:- If you sell it to me, it will stop irritating shoppers like me annoying your already overworked staff asking if they can buy it AND can you throw in that I have a child in a wheel chair (does that last bit make me a bad person?).

Not only did we get the tree, but for an extra $23 we got those lovely decorations as well.

Monday Morning

2009-12-14T06:30:00.001+09:30

I've changed my mind - I think it's this one...............

But wait, there's more

2009-12-13T10:54:00.009+09:30

It occurred to me last night that there were a couple of extra (special) things that happened for my birthday that I have not yet blogged...................

On my actual birthday my girlfriends put together a lovely birthday breakfast at Leigh's place:- home made muslie, fruit salad & muffins, croissants juice etc. Sally, who does the most beautiful scrap booking made me the book/memento of my birthday celebrations - I have attempted to photograph it - doesn't really do it justice though.

The other picture..................an Argyle Diamond my husband bought for me - he's so beautiful (and smart!).

5 days in Melbourne

2009-12-12T10:08:00.008+09:30

If there is one thing Arthur and I know how to do well, it's having a great time when we're away - with or without the kids!

When it's just us it's a far bigger challenge because we can fit so much more in. Invariably we come back exhausted but we've had a lot of fun in the process!

This trip was all the more fun because Nicole & Grayson and Nicky and Damien were in Melbourne the same time as us!

Dinner at Movida (you need to book 3 months in advance), Spanish tapas - what a taste sensation this place was!

Shopping.................

Dinner with Nicole and Grayson at Neil Perry's restaurant, "Rock Pool" - another taste sensation. Delicious food, fantastic company!

Shopping................

We took the train to Warragal (Damien's home town) and Nicky & Damien picked us up. From there we drove through some beautiful country side to Healsville where we had dinner at a winery call Giant Steps. We stayed at the Healsville Hotel, a beautiful old pub which I was convinced was haunted.

After 3 hours sleep we were up again at 3.30 to go Hot Air Ballooning - Watching the sunrise over the Yarra Valley was breath-takingly beautiful!

We all drove back to Melbourne, did a quick bit of shopping, then back to our rooms for a quick kindy-nap before the concert.

Fleetwood Mac were amazing - they absolutely still have it!

We had a really lovely time with Nicky and Damien, it was nice for us all to just be adults and not parents for a few days!

It's wonderful to be alive!

Second Hand News

2009-12-11T17:58:00.003+09:30

Is this my favourite Fleetwood Mac song? I think so - you can play it and PRETEND you were there...............

Princess Grace of Anula

2009-12-10T09:39:00.006+09:30

What happens when you and your siblings get sent to Katherine and your parents go to Melbourne for 6 days???

We arrived Saturday and Bronwyn called Monday morning telling us that Grace broke her leg (snapped the Tibia and Fibula) the previous evening and was in hospital! I felt terrible, the biggest thing to happen to her and her parents were away! Luck for Mae Mae, she had Tilley and Georgie who each had a turn overnighting in hospital with her.

She had to have her leg re-set and they were going to fly her to Darwin, but as luck would have it they had some visiting specialist at the Katherine Hospital and they did it Monday afternoon - No way we could have made it in time!

Georgie and Tilley did a wonderful job looking after her and since Georgie shared a room with her (at Manbulloo)GG was suffering from some serious sleep deprivation by the time they got home on Friday.

And Princess Grace is feeling better.............and milking it for all it's worth!!!

My Surprise 40th

2009-11-13T17:00:00.023+09:30

The planning committee: Arthur, Georgie, Alicia, Nicky, Nicky, & Leigh.

The Surprise guests: My Dad, My Cousin Leisa & my beautiful friend (and biggest fan) Kim Scott!

My day started with an amazing 4 hour pamper package (from Nicky, Nicky, Leigh & Alicia) at the beautiful "I Am" salon. Nicky picked me up at 8.30 bearing gifts of flowers and hand made soaps and a hot cup of Tea (she's one of the few people allowed to make my tea). When I'd finished, Leigh was my chaufer home and brought along food and a chilled can of coke for the trip.

Leigh collected me again at 6 to take me to an unknown destination. We picked up Nicole then over to Nicky's...........who wasn't quite ready and asked us to come in an wait for a minute (no problems, we had to wait for 20mins at Nicole's).

Well, bugger me, I had an idea something was happening that night, but when I walked around the back of that house I had no idea what was waiting for me - there were no cars out the front NOTHING - there was over 30 people and they managed to hide all their cars!

I have been putting off writing about this simply because I'm worried that I might not be able to portray just how much this meant to me. I can only imagine how much trouble everybody went to to make this so special for me and let me tell you, I absolutely felt special and loved.

There was so much thought put into everything. It was held in Nicky and Damian's back yard which is lovely anyway, but it was turned into something really special with fairy lights, candles and flowers and the Buddha holding all those beautiful frangipanni flowers was Nicky's offering to me! They'd organised catering and my favourite (as was everyone else's by the end of the night) an electronic juke box! We must have danced and sung for easily 3 hours - and my god we weren't just good - we were bloody fantastic - by 2am the neighbours were really loving us!

Dad, Leisa and Kim travelling all the way from Adelaide, Brisbane and Canberra - what an absolute treat that was, how excited was I to see them - it was the jumping kind of excitement, you know the one I mean? And not as far to travel but still a long drive - Stephanie & Brian and Bronwyn and Brian, how good did that make me feel!

My friends are so important to me and play such a huge part in my life and I love that these two really important lots of people (friends & family) got to meet.

So many people went to so much trouble for me - FOR ME! And what a celebration we all had! It was memorable, it was special - It was EXACTLY how I wanted it! And you can't get better then that can you?

Thank you to everybody, you know how much I love you all and appreciate having you in my life!

Georgie Leigh Hill 17!!!!

2009-10-29T13:43:00.007+09:30

I was a week over due and had been having contractions since about 5.30, but I tried to convince Arthur that it was a false alarm and I attempted to drive him to work..........I didn't stick with that theory for long - about 3kms actually!!

There are two things that stick most in my mind about Georgie's birth. The first was that I had an absolute bitch of a midwife with hairy underarms and a holier-then-thou attitude towards natural child birth. Secondly, despite Sr-bloody-Arnett's objections, Dr Scattini gave me an epidural at about 3.30 in the afternoon and let me tell you a big assed needle in your back, followed by that oh so beautiful warm sensation down your spine NEVER felt so good (shit mate, so I failed the childbirth class - I'm OK with that)!

Georgie's was born at 7.20pm, weighing in at 8lb 2 1/2 oz. Despite an enormous amount of pressure to name her, it took us 3 days and it was Arthur and my good friend Wendy who came up with her name.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GG

xoxo

Robbie's 200th Game

2009-10-26T14:13:00.010+09:30

Yesterday it was Robert's 200th game of football. He plays for Nightcliff Tigers and we went down to watch the game. All of his friends wore yellow shirts with the number 3 on the back and the little kids ran through the banner onto the field with him - he carried Livvy through the banner..........it was very cute! Arthur stayed after the game (which, sadly they lost by 4 points) to help Robert with his Keg - Art's good like that, always looking for ways he can help his mates out!

Happy Birthday Tilley

2009-10-11T13:19:00.008+09:30

Happy 16th Birthday Shantelle

xoxo

The Nardoo Chronicles

2009-10-10T08:12:00.007+09:30

For as long as we have lived here the man two doors down- (Toby, nice bloke, alternative, almost certainly thinks Tofu and bean curd is a treat) lets his decrepit old dog out for a walk each morning.

And every bloody morning "Lassie" sniffs it's sorry ass down to our footpath where it proceeds to take a dump - the only variation to this is which side of the driveway!

So yesterday I decided I'd had enough! I collected all of "Lassie's" offerings into a bucket............

and this is where I'd like to say "I stormed down to his place dumped them on his driveway and told him what I thought of his dog's stinkin habit"

but it didn't happen like that...................

I waited until I had the cover of darkness, snuck down to his place, tipped the bucket onto his driveway and ran home.

That showed him didn't it!!!! Ok, well after a few weeks of this I reckon he might get the message. Shit, I'm only giving what's his back............

Relay for life

2009-10-02T07:15:00.005+09:30

Rember loved ones

Educate to reduce risk

Lend support at times of need

Advocate for cancer controls

Yes to survival

Last weekend was Relay for Life. As always the girls worked all year busking, selling chocolates, cooking sausages and baking cakes to raise money for cancer research. This year they called their team "Time Walkers" and the theme was 60's 70's & 80's.

They raised just over $2500.00

This is what our teenagers (and their friends) do! This is what they get excited about, this is what they get a kick out of! How special is that? Jeez...........talk about proud parents xo

We lit candles for and remembered with love and tears:

Elizabeth Chain
Maureen McDonald
Collette Sherwood
Barney Ward
Gordon Ward
Jim Ward
Chris Ward

The Inlaws

2009-09-24T10:00:00.006+09:30

Lots of people ask us how we manage on one income with 6 kids. To be honest, we mostly live from pay to pay and whilst that does get frustrating (like when something major like the washing machine craps itself etc) it doesn't bother us too much, because it won't be like this for ever - I do have a permanent job with the government and am due to go back to work in 2013. For now though, we both agree that the most important thing is for me to be home for the kids - and, no complaints from me, I love it!

We have a really great life style, however, without a doubt this would not be possible without the help and support of Arthur's parents - Stephanie and Brian.

I love the special relationship they have with our children and from the moment Shantelle came to live with us they treated her as one of their own, lavishing her with as much love as the other children.

For those of you who have never been to Manbulloo, you can't imagine just how beautiful and peaceful it is out there. It feels so good to know you have a safe place to go, where there's lots of love and nothing is ever really a problem.

It's pretty special for me, because the only other place I have ever felt like that was at home with mum.

They help us in so many ways! Coming to the rescue in a washing machine crisis, sending us on a holiday which we otherwise would not be able to afford. We never expect any of these things, but you can't imagine just how much we appreciate them.

And we'll do the very same thing for our children...................

SEE, now you really know HOW LUCKY WE ARE

Cruising the Pacific

2009-09-23T12:54:00.002+09:30

We came back from holidays a couple of weeks ago and I find it odd that when you get back it's like you never even left!

We went on a 7 night cruise to the Pacific Islands with Arthur's sister, husband and kids and some good friends Tony and Jean Civitarese. To say I enjoyed the cruise would be an understatement! I loved the ocean, it was so beautiful and I loved the gentle rocking (and sometimes not so gentle) of the ship. My first morning I got up before everyone else, showered and raced up to the top deck - I was almost overwhelmed, it just took my breath away! There was absolutely nothing out there, just water which was deep deep blue colour that I have never seen before.

Needless to say, we will be going on another. We also went up to Hervey Bay, visited some friends, Craig and Michelle Hutchinson and went whale watching. Then down to Faylene and Gary's (Shantelle's grandparents) in Esk. We overnighted there and spent a very relaxing morning at their block. They were great with the kids (who we all know can have the same effect as a mini tornado) and it was great to catch up with them again, they are a lovely couple and made us feel very welcome! Definitely looking forward to catching up again sometime soon.

Down to Surfers paradise for a few days, visiting Lamington National Park and Dreamworld.

I love holidays...............busy planning the next one.................

The "P" plater

2009-08-12T14:24:00.003+09:30

It seems that in the blink of an eye my baby turned into a teenager who can now legally drive on the roads - god, how did that happen?? Understandably she doesn't feel too cool in the 8 seater Tarago and only slightly better in the 7 seater Suzuki - However, if we all caste our minds back to when we first got our license we were just thankful to have "a" vehicle to drive - and that's where she's at.............you gotta love it!

Ps. Check out my "harry-high-pants" jeans.

CONGRATULATIONS GG

Feeling Alive

2009-08-08T21:53:00.007+09:30

We spent a magical 4 days out at the Vic river. I have titled the blog "Feeling Alive" because it was one of those weekends when everywhere you look there is incredible beauty and the energy of the place was just amazing. And sharing it with such good friends made it all the more special!

The Victoria river is about 200km west of Katherine and Damien (Nicky's husband - next to Arthur in the bridge picture) runs the construction company who are building the big-ass bridge across the river - I have included a picture, since it's his "baby" - a mighty fine erection Damien!

So while the crew were away for the long weekend we stayed in the camp (en suite accommodation, fully equipped/stocked kitchen - my kind of camping).

We spent hours on the river without seeing another soul, climbed an escarpment and the view from the top was breathtaking. We visited a croc farm (not opened to the public) and the station was nestled at the base of two escarpments - beautiful! We also watched helicopter mustering and the cattle were converging onto the station paddocks while we were there (how's that for timing!).

And I just want to say that the children absolutely DID NOT have a go at driving any of the big earth moving equipment - because that would be dangerous!

What a weekend! What an adventure!

Welcome James

2009-08-06T18:04:00.000+09:30

The much anticipated arrival of Leanne and Troy's baby has finally happened - James was born 17 July, weighing a hefty 9.11lbs. They had the assistance of a wonderful interpreter (hearing) named Natalie, from NABS, who made the whole process that much easier.

Isn't he beautiful! I love the look on his face - quite clearly he is telling every body to put him right back where he came from thank you very much! Mum and Dad are pretty busy at the moment but I hope to get some more pics soon.

Congratulations Leanne and Troy

xoxo

School holidays

2009-07-17T16:36:00.014+09:30

Today marks the end of 4 weeks of school holidays and to be honest I am a little sad! The dry season is one of my favourite times of the year, the weather is beautiful and I just love spending time outdoors!

We had trips to the museums, beach, parks, beach, wave pool, beach (I'm thinking that might be my FAVOURITE spot)!!!! So we haven't managed to spend one day at home over the last 4 weeks - That's OK though, because I have learnt by my mistakes and I KNOW I have to get the kids out of the house otherwise by lunch time they are trying to kill each other - and my relationship with them also starts to deteriorate............

I have included some pics, the swing pic is of MOST of the kids. How lovely are the beach shots? - sometimes we go a couple of times a week, its such a beautiful spot. Yes crocodiles are an issue but we let the kids go swimming anyway (hey, they gotta live a little!!) as long as a couple of us keep look out - see good parenting skills!

Happy 6th Birthday Harrison

2009-07-08T15:47:00.002+09:30

True to form, 8 hours into my labour with Harrison I was begging for an epidural! I often think of my mum who went into labour Tuesday afternoon (4th November), but I wasn't born until just before midnight the following night (5th - pls remember that date - I want a present!). How on earth do you do labour that long without some serious drugs?

So my beautiful boy was born 6.35am weighing just over 9lbs. I'd like to say he was a great baby but he so wasn't! I guess it didn't help that there is only 18months between him and Connor, but he was very demanding and had bad sleep habits (a shinning star compared to Grace though).

Out of all the kids, it's Harrison who knows best how to push my buttons - we clash something shocking. BUT, he is the "GO-TO" man of the house when Arthur's not home. And in the mornings when we're going out, it's Harrison who packs the cooler with drinks etc and the bag with nappies, spare clothes etc. He is generous, considerate and caring. Such a beautiful little man, sometimes I could just eat him!

Ps. The really bad picture is of Harrison after his big brother painted him with zinc cream!

Happy 6th Birthday Harrison

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

2009-07-05T01:30:00.006+09:30

It's Chris's anniversary today. I've spent a lot of time thinking about his life and how it ended.

If I struggled to love the man Chris tuned into, I could easily love the little boy he had once been!
Children are not born bad, but people and events shape them as they grow. I really struggle with the purpose of his life. I know better then most the things he did, but regardless of the whys and hows, he suffered more rejection, misery and self hatred then anybody should in one life time.

Sadly, I always believed I was superior to him. I am not superior to anybody.

As I was writing Chris's eulogy I received this e'mail from Brett Jones (Cre8) and I want to share it because it gave me an enormous amount of peace:-

"It’s never too late to heal a relationship even when they are gone. If your brother could speak now and from a different perspective I’m sure he would be saying that he understands why you resented him but that he wouldn’t want you to be beating yourself up. Tell him in your heart you love him, have always and that you realise it even more now that he has gone. Understand that he played his role in the family that he was given and you played yours. It doesn’t have to be like that anymore. You can love him, forgive him and let it go. Being hard on yourself isn’t going to keep him close to you, suffering is an optional choice, a better one is love. For you, your husband and your family. Love him and let him go."

I was asked to think about what I would say to Chris if I had one last chance - so I spoke to him - I had a lot to say. I didn't ask for any explanations, just told him how I felt, how I didn't understand and when I finished I was asked what I thought he would say to me - and I knew for sure what he would have said - he would have said "I know Sis".

So today I'm going to tell that beautiful little boy how much I love him, that he's special and imagine hugging him tightly.

I hope with all my heart that he has found peace.

My Friend Annis

2009-07-01T20:39:00.012+09:30

This is our friend Annis Collins, she's an ex Katherine girl and we have known her since before Georgie was born! She lives in Tasmania but just happened to be in Perth when we were there in May. We used the phone camera, so not the best quality but I love this picture - it's so her -always full of life!! We haven't seen her for nearly 6 years, so it was great to catch up again.

She's one of the more interesting people I know ( there is NEVER a dull moment when it comes to Annis) and I love her to bits! Not surprisingly, she was one of the people quarantined on the first cruise ship! She was actually quite sick with influenza, not swine flu - though when I spoke to her she did say she was still grunting...............