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I started doing a huge write up about our trip, and got sick of matching photos with words, etc, so here is a brief rundown of our 3 weeks travelling down to the bottom of Invercargill, and back again!
Monday, July 20, 2009
"3 weeks in silver car"
...sung in my best Crowded House 'Six months' voice!
I started doing a huge write up about our trip, and got sick of matching photos with words, etc, so here is a brief rundown of our 3 weeks travelling down to the bottom of Invercargill, and back again!
I started doing a huge write up about our trip, and got sick of matching photos with words, etc, so here is a brief rundown of our 3 weeks travelling down to the bottom of Invercargill, and back again!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
What have we been up to this weekend.........
.......soccer - Jon took the boys to soccer, an hour away, so I knew I was going to get at least 3 hours to myself. They finally turned up 6 1/2 later........ yay to having the house to myself for the day, I think I owe him!
and this........
Cookie time choc chip cookies, savoury muffins and jaffa muffins..... for lunch boxes and afternoon teas.
and this......
We've never owned a Scrabble Game, despite having every other game, so I told myself I would go have a look to see how much they were, I got there and it was the only game on special, AND, it had a free dictionary! Cameron attends the One Day School in Hamilton on Thursdays. It is Gifted Awareness Week this week, and part of that is a Scrabble-athon. There is some information here, although it is an old article, there is supposed to be a recent one coming this week. There are 2 website for our local association, found here and here.
" The budget cuts and current review means there is uncertainty regarding the future of gifted and talented education. There is no shortage of challenges in this area, many requiring urgent and thoughtful attention.
and this - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. I'd considered going to see it when it was on at the movies, and now am pleased I didn't. I don't really know what I was expecting, but it didn't meet my expectations, if that makes sense. I found the sound very off-putting, and actually fell asleep, not once, but twice!
.........and this - Scrapbooking. While Jon and the boys were away I had some time to myself, so locked myself into my little room with the heater, and the radio and enjoyed the peace. I got 3 and 1/2 pages done, but forgot to photograph them individually so will do that when there is light tomorrow.
and this - ever since we cleaned the flue a few weeks ago, we've been having problems with the fire, so after asking around, and finding what needed to be done, we finally fixed it, and have noticed a huge difference, not only does it not smoke the whole room, but it is so much more effecient.
....and new clocks for the boys. Well, not new clocks, but I bought them their own alarm clocks, partly to give them some responsibility for getting ready in the morning, but also because I came out this morning at 5 and found Braden up watching TV, and after asking, realised he had been up since 4.25!!! Don't worry, he was rather quickly shunted back to bed.
So, it has felt like a very productive weekend, so will go finish folding the washing, and then an early night to ward off a sore throat I feel coming along.........
and this........
Cookie time choc chip cookies, savoury muffins and jaffa muffins..... for lunch boxes and afternoon teas.and this......
We've never owned a Scrabble Game, despite having every other game, so I told myself I would go have a look to see how much they were, I got there and it was the only game on special, AND, it had a free dictionary! Cameron attends the One Day School in Hamilton on Thursdays. It is Gifted Awareness Week this week, and part of that is a Scrabble-athon. There is some information here, although it is an old article, there is supposed to be a recent one coming this week. There are 2 website for our local association, found here and here.
" The budget cuts and current review means there is uncertainty regarding the future of gifted and talented education. There is no shortage of challenges in this area, many requiring urgent and thoughtful attention.
Since 2005 schools have been required to identify and provide for gifted and talented students, and this has been a huge step forward in raising the awareness and interest for appropriate gifted education provisions for all schools. However, recent reports demonstrate that many schools are struggling to meet this requirement due mainly to limited funding and insufficient professional development and support"
and this - The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. I'd considered going to see it when it was on at the movies, and now am pleased I didn't. I don't really know what I was expecting, but it didn't meet my expectations, if that makes sense. I found the sound very off-putting, and actually fell asleep, not once, but twice!.........and this - Scrapbooking. While Jon and the boys were away I had some time to myself, so locked myself into my little room with the heater, and the radio and enjoyed the peace. I got 3 and 1/2 pages done, but forgot to photograph them individually so will do that when there is light tomorrow.
and this - ever since we cleaned the flue a few weeks ago, we've been having problems with the fire, so after asking around, and finding what needed to be done, we finally fixed it, and have noticed a huge difference, not only does it not smoke the whole room, but it is so much more effecient.
....and new clocks for the boys. Well, not new clocks, but I bought them their own alarm clocks, partly to give them some responsibility for getting ready in the morning, but also because I came out this morning at 5 and found Braden up watching TV, and after asking, realised he had been up since 4.25!!! Don't worry, he was rather quickly shunted back to bed.
So, it has felt like a very productive weekend, so will go finish folding the washing, and then an early night to ward off a sore throat I feel coming along.........
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Because I haven't updated for so long,........... I'll do an update in bullet form...........
- Braden successfully took part in his first Weetbix Tryathlon challenge. It was a long day for everyone involved, but I was so proud to see him do it, all by himself too, not in a team.
- Soccer has started again, we haven't had any games yet, first weekend in May, but practice has, Tuesday afternoons and Saturday mornings for the next...... oh, 3 months!
- Well, the holidays are upon us, and I've already had enough. Mr 10 just cannot entertain himself, and Mr 8 wants to have his fingers in all the pies, wants all the friends over, wants to do Soccer Camp, but is upset when it clashes with something else he wants to do..... I just want to sit quietly for 5 mins, LOL. I have 3 new Creating Keepsakes Mags to read. I haven't been buying them, but at the moment they have 2 free ones, so if they are 2 I don't have, then I will buy it, works out to just over $3 a mag, can't go wrong there.
- Anyway, I just have to rave about my Scrappin Patch order! I ordered about 7 in the morning, by 8 I had an email to say that my order was packed and ready to go, and the courier picked it up at 9.30. Soooo, in anticipation of my ordering arriving today, and being able to sit down and create, (because I have been waiting to do a particular layout) I got out in the garden yesterday and did a couple hours hard work, and then again this morning. The people before us never had anything growing in the back garden, so there was a lot of work, just need to wait for my Buzzy Lizzies to 'root', and then I'll fill the garden with lots of colour! We also inherited some shelves for the garage, so now everything is nicely placed, and in a 'logical' place, wonder how long before a male in the house comes in saying 'where is..............?'
- We also had one our chrysalises 'hatch' and have sent our first beautiful butterfly on it's way.
- We have also had our cat at the vets. At first we thought he had broken his foot or leg, but didn't rush to the vets, as a friend had been in the same situation last weekend, and the vets wouldn't do anything till the Monday when they could do the x-rays. Then, on Monday, he had a sore on his leg, which at first we thought was where he had been 'gnawing' at the 'pain' in his leg, but after talking to my friend the vet, she said it was probably an abcess which had burst. He would have had the abcess all along, and that would be what was causing him to walk funny. Anyway, antibiotics is the way to go, he is already better after 2 doses. Poor baby, he is 16 years now, 17 in a couple of months, and we were having terrible thoughts about having to make the decision about his leg, fortunately that was made for us!
- The cold weather has set in, we cleaned the fire, and have had some small fires going the last couple of days. One good thing about the cold nights is nice crisp clear days, which is great for washing. I was lucky enough to grab a couple of nice woollen blankets when we
were clearing out a relatives house. We have lots of duvets, but nothing beats a woollen blanket, so they have been given a good airing today. I also got some
yummy warm jamas. I don't normally wear jamas to bed, I have my own personal heater in bed, LOL, but sometimes when you've had a shower early in the evening, or going somewhere like Scrapcamp, etc, and you need something. - We went to the Easter show on Saturday. We didn't go last year,as it was just getting so expensive,but decided that as it fell in the holidays we would make a day of it. The kids had to earn some money to spend, we bought most of the stuff, but they had to choose to spend there money on side shows/games/ etc. Here they are earning some money, the hard way.
We got there about 11, had a late breakfast, you just have to have hotdogs at the show, and 
had a quick wander around. We then went to the circus, which was just fantastic, and then to the Cadbury Magic show. We then grabbed some lunch, which was a bit disappointing. We ate in the 'cafe' area, but while sitting there, saw some more options outside, which looked yummier! - After watching Chelsea and her dogs, and looking around the trade stands, and the cats, animals, etc, and a few turns on the side shows, it was 5.15 and we needed to get going. We were supposed to meet someone for something, but that fell through (a whole 'nuther story, LOL). Do you know what, we did not even go into the ride area. Cameron did not want to go on anything, and Braden was a bit hesitant too, although we would have all gone on the slide, we just didn't go near it. We had some dinner and got home about 10.30...... I was very very tired, I'd been awake early, and it was a loooong day.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Sunday, April 05, 2009
I've been away........
So where have I been I hear you ask? Well first I stopped in Canberra, Australia, and did a page using product (Basic Grey) from Aussie Scrap Source 
.... then I jumped on a plane and headed to Papua New Guinea, and this layout has the colours represented on the PNG flag.
I then had a few hiccups with flights, and didn't make the next few destinations, let call it a detour (aka WORK) LOL.
Getting things sorted out I then headed to the US, where I picked up a bonus ticket, aswell as using the offered sketch created this page.
Finally we were offered several options for a pitstop, so here is my wildlife page........
and finally 4 extra pages, giving me 2 extra tickets.
So, my tally, for this little jaunt around the world;
my original blog post 1,
pages, 6,
tickets from Monday and Thursday, 2,
and a bonus for gallery comments, 1,
gives me 10 tickets by my reckoning.
It's been a whirlwind trip, would have loved to do more, but, I've scrapped more in a couple of days, than I do in a month!
I had a great time, and seeing the fabulous work in the gallery has been inspiring..... thanks Andrea for all your hard work for this little trip!
ETA Andrea has just given bonus tickets out for those that completed 4 challenges, which I managed to do, so that's now 11.
ETAA (Edited to add again) That makes 12 now, because if you blogged after the race started you also get a ticket. Funnily enough, I finished my blog post, and thought yay, all done, and then realised I hadn't loaded ANYTHING into any galleries, so nearly missed out completely, LOL.
.... then I jumped on a plane and headed to Papua New Guinea, and this layout has the colours represented on the PNG flag.
I then had a few hiccups with flights, and didn't make the next few destinations, let call it a detour (aka WORK) LOL.Getting things sorted out I then headed to the US, where I picked up a bonus ticket, aswell as using the offered sketch created this page.
Finally we were offered several options for a pitstop, so here is my wildlife page........
and finally 4 extra pages, giving me 2 extra tickets.
So, my tally, for this little jaunt around the world;my original blog post 1,
pages, 6,
tickets from Monday and Thursday, 2,
and a bonus for gallery comments, 1,
gives me 10 tickets by my reckoning.
It's been a whirlwind trip, would have loved to do more, but, I've scrapped more in a couple of days, than I do in a month!
I had a great time, and seeing the fabulous work in the gallery has been inspiring..... thanks Andrea for all your hard work for this little trip!
ETA Andrea has just given bonus tickets out for those that completed 4 challenges, which I managed to do, so that's now 11.
ETAA (Edited to add again) That makes 12 now, because if you blogged after the race started you also get a ticket. Funnily enough, I finished my blog post, and thought yay, all done, and then realised I hadn't loaded ANYTHING into any galleries, so nearly missed out completely, LOL.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Goodness me.......
...... these posts are getting few and far between. I'm not even making posts for my own use, to help me remember dates and events, which is shocking.
I really should post more, but am very tired, a late meeting and not getting to bed till after 12 (I've been on an early to bed binge for the last 2 weeks, so 12 was very late), plus lots of travelling, and more tomorrow means I need to get to bed tonight.
Travelling to Auckland tomorrow afternoon, may mean I miss out on the excitement over at Scrapbook Outlet, Andrea has whipped the entire scrapbooking community in a frenzy over her plans, hopefully I won't miss the excitement tomorrow.
Until then........
I really should post more, but am very tired, a late meeting and not getting to bed till after 12 (I've been on an early to bed binge for the last 2 weeks, so 12 was very late), plus lots of travelling, and more tomorrow means I need to get to bed tonight.
Travelling to Auckland tomorrow afternoon, may mean I miss out on the excitement over at Scrapbook Outlet, Andrea has whipped the entire scrapbooking community in a frenzy over her plans, hopefully I won't miss the excitement tomorrow.
Until then........
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Well, 1 January was my last post, and I just haven't felt inclined to come back...... I am still here, still browsing your blogs, but always feel what I have to say isn't worth a blog post. I post regularly on Facebook, maybe because making a 'status update' can be done in a sentence, and I don't feel like I have to write more. I did look at Twitter, but decided I didn't need yet another avenue online, as it is I spend far too much time.
We didn't do much for the rest of the holidays, in fact, I don't think I have any photos or anything to share. The boys went to camp towards the end, a new camp to them, and although they say they didn't enjoy it, I think they did really.
Something I have been engrossed in over the last couple, no make that few months, really, it has gone on for the last year (and I know that 'cause I had a pediatrician appointment on the day before Christmas last last year) has been to find some 'help' for Cameron. For the last couple of years I have thought things weren't right, and it was put down to anxiety and OCD, however that still did not satisfy me, and I persued the matter. (and, looking at the date of that post shows me it is nearly 2 years that I have been fighting the system).
I happened to be speaking to a professional visiting our school, and queried her opinion. After explaining various behaviours she asked if we had considered the One Day School for him. I pushed through the paperwork and managed to wangle an assessment for the week before school started, as I knew I wanted answers before the term started. As it turns out Cameron has various levels of giftedness, ranging from extemely high in his thinking through to reasonably high in other areas. The testing also highlighted other areas where we will need to do some extra work in anticipation of intermediate next year, and college coming up. It has given me a professionals opinion, to give to the school, rather than just saying 'oh, my son is quirky'. Following this I have been vigourously reading books and online forums, hungry for information to help my son.
Last Thursday he started at the One Day school in Hamilton, and will go every Thursday for this term at least, and if we are happy with progress and results, he will go for the year. I am relieved that there are now answers, and wonder what could have happened had I not pushed for more.
We're all back settled into school. Braden is doing so well, involved with everything, his teacher is so impressed, I'm sure she must be talking about another child. Cameron is reasonably settled, has a second year teacher, so she is open to ideas, lots of enthusiasm, and he seems quite happy so far. I'm quite pleased how things are going with my job, a few changes from last year, but change is good.
We don't normally do anything exciting for Valentines, but I found out the Sky City had a 'Do not disturb' package for the weekend, so we nipped off to Auckland for Saturday, to be met with these lovely goodies, as well as
valet parking, breakfast in the morning, and late check out of 1pm. We caught a movie, finally, at 10.45pm, after trying 2 times to get in and being sold out...... not a movie for everyone, but it was quite good. We then stopped in for a bit at the casino, and I think it was 4am by the time we got to sleep........ lucky we had that 1pm checkout!
I've done a bit of scrapping, not much, but will have to take those pictures when there is some light, hopefully over the weekend I will do some more. The weekends have been 'chocker' the last few weeks, so we have nothing planned this weekend, I am really looking forward to just relaxing and catching up.
We didn't do much for the rest of the holidays, in fact, I don't think I have any photos or anything to share. The boys went to camp towards the end, a new camp to them, and although they say they didn't enjoy it, I think they did really.
Something I have been engrossed in over the last couple, no make that few months, really, it has gone on for the last year (and I know that 'cause I had a pediatrician appointment on the day before Christmas last last year) has been to find some 'help' for Cameron. For the last couple of years I have thought things weren't right, and it was put down to anxiety and OCD, however that still did not satisfy me, and I persued the matter. (and, looking at the date of that post shows me it is nearly 2 years that I have been fighting the system).
I happened to be speaking to a professional visiting our school, and queried her opinion. After explaining various behaviours she asked if we had considered the One Day School for him. I pushed through the paperwork and managed to wangle an assessment for the week before school started, as I knew I wanted answers before the term started. As it turns out Cameron has various levels of giftedness, ranging from extemely high in his thinking through to reasonably high in other areas. The testing also highlighted other areas where we will need to do some extra work in anticipation of intermediate next year, and college coming up. It has given me a professionals opinion, to give to the school, rather than just saying 'oh, my son is quirky'. Following this I have been vigourously reading books and online forums, hungry for information to help my son.
Last Thursday he started at the One Day school in Hamilton, and will go every Thursday for this term at least, and if we are happy with progress and results, he will go for the year. I am relieved that there are now answers, and wonder what could have happened had I not pushed for more.
We're all back settled into school. Braden is doing so well, involved with everything, his teacher is so impressed, I'm sure she must be talking about another child. Cameron is reasonably settled, has a second year teacher, so she is open to ideas, lots of enthusiasm, and he seems quite happy so far. I'm quite pleased how things are going with my job, a few changes from last year, but change is good.
We don't normally do anything exciting for Valentines, but I found out the Sky City had a 'Do not disturb' package for the weekend, so we nipped off to Auckland for Saturday, to be met with these lovely goodies, as well as
valet parking, breakfast in the morning, and late check out of 1pm. We caught a movie, finally, at 10.45pm, after trying 2 times to get in and being sold out...... not a movie for everyone, but it was quite good. We then stopped in for a bit at the casino, and I think it was 4am by the time we got to sleep........ lucky we had that 1pm checkout!I've done a bit of scrapping, not much, but will have to take those pictures when there is some light, hopefully over the weekend I will do some more. The weekends have been 'chocker' the last few weeks, so we have nothing planned this weekend, I am really looking forward to just relaxing and catching up.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Warning, a verrrrry long post, more for my records than anything else!
On Sunday after Christmas we packed up and headed to Napier/Hastings for a couple of days. We've wanted to go to Splash Planet for a few years now, and after we cancelled our beach house this summer we thought these holidays would be a good time to go to Splash Planet.
Hindering our plans was our cat Rocky, who, on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning was looking a bit down. He had been to the vet about a week before Christmas with a cut, it was then the vet commented on a couple of things that made him think Rocky had hyperthyroidism, aswell as a tooth that needed to come out. He wanted to wait till his leg healed and then do tests, so we knew he wasn't 100%. After much deliberating and conferring with my sister, bless her soul, we headed off, with the plans to ring the vet first thing Monday, for her to drop him off and for him to do whatever needed doing.
We drove straight to Napier, had a look around, lunch, wandered along Marine Parade, a little
play at the beach and 10 Pin bowling ..... before heading over to Hastings. We tried to go out for dinner to a 'stone grill' place but they appeared closed over the break so had fish and chips back in our room, before going down to the motel pool.
First thing Monday I rung the vet, told him to do what needed, probably take that tooth out, before we headed across the road (yay, no parking problems) to Splash Planet. The kids love water in any form, so they were in their element, we enjoyed ourselves aswell. About lunchtime it started clouding over, but we carried on, after all it was just more water, LOL. About 4pm it really started raining, which was unfortunate as that was when we had hopped to dry off and do a couple of dry activities, mini golf, go-karts, etc, but the kids went on the cars in the rain, (while I sheltered) and we flagged the golf.
This lady was a great sport, she got right in there, and was having lots of fun with our boys, who were giving her all they had!
We tried the stone grill place again, only to be told it had closed down, so had Breakers for dinner
We heard from my sister, saying Rocky was all OK, he had 4 teeth out in the end, so had anti-biotics, and the vet was waiting for the results regarding blood tests.
On Tuesday it was Camerons birthday, so we had a little cake and sang for him, and gave him a
couple of presents we had taken with us, including a camera from us.
We headed over to Napier for the day. First stop, Marineland. While it is a shame they are no longer doing shows now there are no dolphins, it bought back memories (must get Mum to dig out photos from when I went there when I was about 12) and we enjoyed the animals there.
These penguin cut outs were pretty much life sized, amazing!
When we had been wandering along the beach front on Sunday, the kids spotted a skate park,
and begged to go, so we took them down there. Neither of them really enjoyed it, which was a shame, one just refused to do anything, and the other reluctantly had a turn on a few jumps but we were quite annoyed at them. We told them that because they had had a turn at doing something for them, we were going to the old Napier Prison for a tour. It was quite interesting, 
especially that it was still in use up to15 years ago. Cameron was in a real bad mood, he really looks the part, in fact, we could have quite happily left him there! We then parked back down at Marine Parade, got some photos of icons and various places, and a
game of mini golf, before making a booking at Hogs Breathe Cafe (they said they were going to be packed, so best be booked in) and heading to the movies. We saw Bedtime Stories, a good family feel good movie, before heading back for a late dinner.
Wednesday we weren't in any rush to get home, so called into Rock Climbing in Napier, before heading toward
home (thinking the roads might be busy, which they weren't) for late late lunch in Taupo. Taupo was absolutley packed, everywhere, and we ended up at this nice little place called Dixie Browns, which looked very inviting. Unfortunately looks are deceiving, while it was a nice atmosphere, the service was good, the food was terrible, and very very expensive. I knew what the prices were when we went in, and was quite happy to pay that, had it been good food, however it was not, and the presentation was shocking. I had something which was 'touted' as roasted chicken sandwich and fries, which sounded similar to something I often have at the local cafe, an open sandwich, chicken, salad, dressing etc. However what I received was, a good old fashioned toasted sandwich, (overcooked too) with some fries, no salad, no effort at presentation, $12 thank you. The kids hot dogs and fries were $8.50 (you can do hotdogs for $1)When we finally got to the bill, they charged us for someone elses food, AND the mid sized glasses of lemonade were $4. It wasn't appropriate to discuss it with them then and there, but I have sent a letter outlining my displeasure at our food, will see if anything comes of it. It would have had to have been the worst dining out experience I've had in a long time.
We left there, and stopped in at AC baths for a late afternoon swim, which was very pleasurable. It has changed a bit since we've been, for the better, great improvements. I didn't take my camera in with me, thinking to myself 'we are just going swimming, I've got lots of photos of us swimming', however they had this great tarzan swing thing which the kids loved and would have made great photos, oh, well, a good reason to go back.
We had thought our late lunch would have seen us through until we got home, but due to the lack of food we ended up stopping in Tokoroa for another bite, before winding our way home, with next to no traffic, which made it a nice drive.
Hindering our plans was our cat Rocky, who, on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning was looking a bit down. He had been to the vet about a week before Christmas with a cut, it was then the vet commented on a couple of things that made him think Rocky had hyperthyroidism, aswell as a tooth that needed to come out. He wanted to wait till his leg healed and then do tests, so we knew he wasn't 100%. After much deliberating and conferring with my sister, bless her soul, we headed off, with the plans to ring the vet first thing Monday, for her to drop him off and for him to do whatever needed doing.
We drove straight to Napier, had a look around, lunch, wandered along Marine Parade, a little
play at the beach and 10 Pin bowling ..... before heading over to Hastings. We tried to go out for dinner to a 'stone grill' place but they appeared closed over the break so had fish and chips back in our room, before going down to the motel pool.First thing Monday I rung the vet, told him to do what needed, probably take that tooth out, before we headed across the road (yay, no parking problems) to Splash Planet. The kids love water in any form, so they were in their element, we enjoyed ourselves aswell. About lunchtime it started clouding over, but we carried on, after all it was just more water, LOL. About 4pm it really started raining, which was unfortunate as that was when we had hopped to dry off and do a couple of dry activities, mini golf, go-karts, etc, but the kids went on the cars in the rain, (while I sheltered) and we flagged the golf.
This lady was a great sport, she got right in there, and was having lots of fun with our boys, who were giving her all they had!
We tried the stone grill place again, only to be told it had closed down, so had Breakers for dinnerWe heard from my sister, saying Rocky was all OK, he had 4 teeth out in the end, so had anti-biotics, and the vet was waiting for the results regarding blood tests.
On Tuesday it was Camerons birthday, so we had a little cake and sang for him, and gave him a
couple of presents we had taken with us, including a camera from us.We headed over to Napier for the day. First stop, Marineland. While it is a shame they are no longer doing shows now there are no dolphins, it bought back memories (must get Mum to dig out photos from when I went there when I was about 12) and we enjoyed the animals there.
These penguin cut outs were pretty much life sized, amazing!
When we had been wandering along the beach front on Sunday, the kids spotted a skate park,
and begged to go, so we took them down there. Neither of them really enjoyed it, which was a shame, one just refused to do anything, and the other reluctantly had a turn on a few jumps but we were quite annoyed at them. We told them that because they had had a turn at doing something for them, we were going to the old Napier Prison for a tour. It was quite interesting, 
especially that it was still in use up to15 years ago. Cameron was in a real bad mood, he really looks the part, in fact, we could have quite happily left him there! We then parked back down at Marine Parade, got some photos of icons and various places, and a
game of mini golf, before making a booking at Hogs Breathe Cafe (they said they were going to be packed, so best be booked in) and heading to the movies. We saw Bedtime Stories, a good family feel good movie, before heading back for a late dinner.Wednesday we weren't in any rush to get home, so called into Rock Climbing in Napier, before heading toward
home (thinking the roads might be busy, which they weren't) for late late lunch in Taupo. Taupo was absolutley packed, everywhere, and we ended up at this nice little place called Dixie Browns, which looked very inviting. Unfortunately looks are deceiving, while it was a nice atmosphere, the service was good, the food was terrible, and very very expensive. I knew what the prices were when we went in, and was quite happy to pay that, had it been good food, however it was not, and the presentation was shocking. I had something which was 'touted' as roasted chicken sandwich and fries, which sounded similar to something I often have at the local cafe, an open sandwich, chicken, salad, dressing etc. However what I received was, a good old fashioned toasted sandwich, (overcooked too) with some fries, no salad, no effort at presentation, $12 thank you. The kids hot dogs and fries were $8.50 (you can do hotdogs for $1)When we finally got to the bill, they charged us for someone elses food, AND the mid sized glasses of lemonade were $4. It wasn't appropriate to discuss it with them then and there, but I have sent a letter outlining my displeasure at our food, will see if anything comes of it. It would have had to have been the worst dining out experience I've had in a long time.We left there, and stopped in at AC baths for a late afternoon swim, which was very pleasurable. It has changed a bit since we've been, for the better, great improvements. I didn't take my camera in with me, thinking to myself 'we are just going swimming, I've got lots of photos of us swimming', however they had this great tarzan swing thing which the kids loved and would have made great photos, oh, well, a good reason to go back.
We had thought our late lunch would have seen us through until we got home, but due to the lack of food we ended up stopping in Tokoroa for another bite, before winding our way home, with next to no traffic, which made it a nice drive.
The day before Christmas I had a follow up appointment with the osteo, unfortunately had to go to Rotorua. It was quite nice in that it made Jon leave work behind, and get out for the day, as he had spent the first 2 days of his 'holiday' catching up. While at my appointment the osteo commented that he should have hooked me up with his other patient, and we could have come over together, so who do I see when I get to the shops, but one of the teachers from the school, who happened to be his patient. The osteo also commeneted on parking at the shops, and said that as I was his last patient we could leave our car in his car park and walk across the road, so that saved a lot of trouble. I also saw the parents of an old school friend, and while waiting in queue spotted a familiar face, and when we got out of the queue (at least 10 deep) had a quick catch up with Shell.
Christmas Day - started out very unsure, what was the weather going to do? Loving the fact that we have a great big house now, and had no hesitations inviting anyone who wanted to come for lunch and/or dinner. When the weather looked a bit iffy we decided not to put the big gazebo up (it's a party sized one, double the norm and quite tricky to assemble) figuring it was not going to be hot enough to need it, nor was it going to rain. We ate inside, and mixed and mingled both inside and out, with the weather holding out for us.
We had picked up Jon's Dad from the rest home, and my Dad was here, my sister and her 2 children, my other sister, my Aunty and uncle, and my Nana, and Jon's 2 sisters, plus us 4, so it was a nice size. Very relaxed, turkey, ham, salads, and pudding, followed by the compulsory crackers, etc.
About midday the SIL's left, as did my Aunty and Uncle, and Nana, and my Mum, her husband and my little brother came for dinner, which we finally had about 7, would have had it even later only Mum needed to get going.
I must have been a good girl this year (I did try, very hard), Santa was very generous, and I got a video recorder, absolutely tiny, amazing. It has lots of cool features, I've worked out the basics, just so I could use it straight away, however, will need to have a good look at the workings of it.
The kids got the latest craze toys, Bakugan, and they seemed very happy, along with Bradens tent, and other bits and pieces.
Braden and his cousin slept in the tent, although Braden came inside in the middle of the night as Troy was 'hogging the bed'. He went on to sleep out there the next night by himself, and stayed the whole night.
On Saturday we went to MIL's place, for a nice casual lunch for Jons birthday. 2 envelopes that had got missed on Christmas day were delivered to the boys, another $20 to add to their stash and they were overjoyed!
Christmas Day - started out very unsure, what was the weather going to do? Loving the fact that we have a great big house now, and had no hesitations inviting anyone who wanted to come for lunch and/or dinner. When the weather looked a bit iffy we decided not to put the big gazebo up (it's a party sized one, double the norm and quite tricky to assemble) figuring it was not going to be hot enough to need it, nor was it going to rain. We ate inside, and mixed and mingled both inside and out, with the weather holding out for us.
We had picked up Jon's Dad from the rest home, and my Dad was here, my sister and her 2 children, my other sister, my Aunty and uncle, and my Nana, and Jon's 2 sisters, plus us 4, so it was a nice size. Very relaxed, turkey, ham, salads, and pudding, followed by the compulsory crackers, etc.
About midday the SIL's left, as did my Aunty and Uncle, and Nana, and my Mum, her husband and my little brother came for dinner, which we finally had about 7, would have had it even later only Mum needed to get going.
I must have been a good girl this year (I did try, very hard), Santa was very generous, and I got a video recorder, absolutely tiny, amazing. It has lots of cool features, I've worked out the basics, just so I could use it straight away, however, will need to have a good look at the workings of it.The kids got the latest craze toys, Bakugan, and they seemed very happy, along with Bradens tent, and other bits and pieces.
Braden and his cousin slept in the tent, although Braden came inside in the middle of the night as Troy was 'hogging the bed'. He went on to sleep out there the next night by himself, and stayed the whole night.
On Saturday we went to MIL's place, for a nice casual lunch for Jons birthday. 2 envelopes that had got missed on Christmas day were delivered to the boys, another $20 to add to their stash and they were overjoyed!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Wow.......
...... what a day. I am so pleased it's over, I have been in and out more times than I care to consider.
First, just after 8, I whizzed to the supermarket, before the hoards, although I had nearly 3 year old niece with me, which makes it a whole new experience.
Then, just before 10 I picked up a friend of Bradens, and dropped them at Craft and Creations, went back and picked up hubby, and Cameron, stopping in a the Post Office, (big mistake) for Cameron to price up a parcel for something he sold on Trade Me, and then dropped hubby home.
Right, back home, to the first of 6 loads of washing........
Back out just after 12 to pick up the boys, with a stop into the park, because I wasn't going to go home, and out again at 1pm for Bradens haircut, so after hair is done, we head home, where we wolf down a mouthful of lunch......
Right, ....... track down mother of said visiting child..... drop off niece at home, and head to the osteopath to get my neck looked at, fortunately he was able to squeeze me in......
Home. For an hour. Down to pick up hubby, and back home to swap cars, as he had the only set of keys to his car, and then off to Tokoroa (about an hour drive for those who aren't local) to visit MIL who has ended up in hospital with a chest infection. Nip out to the Warehouse the get a little fan for her, because it is roasting in the hospital ward........ and finally back home, where we stopped into the local Indian for some dinner.
Whew! What a day. I am so ready for tomorrow, hopefully no where to go...... just some tidying, and plans to alter, now that MIL is ill we will have any extra people at our house, instead of hers.......... that should be easy after today.
I haven't done my Christmas cards, I'm a bit gutted, as I've made them all, but they won't get out in time, so will save them for next year, see, one step ahead already, and will send out some New Year greetings instead, as I have time to do that between Christmas and New Year.
Now, if the kids would only go to sleep I might attempt to wrap some presents, although I might wait for hubby to come home, as I find the neck doesn't take kindly to looking down too much.
I hope you all have a great Christmas, with your family and friends, in whatever setting you do have it, and that the New Year is kind to you.
First, just after 8, I whizzed to the supermarket, before the hoards, although I had nearly 3 year old niece with me, which makes it a whole new experience.
Then, just before 10 I picked up a friend of Bradens, and dropped them at Craft and Creations, went back and picked up hubby, and Cameron, stopping in a the Post Office, (big mistake) for Cameron to price up a parcel for something he sold on Trade Me, and then dropped hubby home.
Right, back home, to the first of 6 loads of washing........
Back out just after 12 to pick up the boys, with a stop into the park, because I wasn't going to go home, and out again at 1pm for Bradens haircut, so after hair is done, we head home, where we wolf down a mouthful of lunch......
Right, ....... track down mother of said visiting child..... drop off niece at home, and head to the osteopath to get my neck looked at, fortunately he was able to squeeze me in......
Home. For an hour. Down to pick up hubby, and back home to swap cars, as he had the only set of keys to his car, and then off to Tokoroa (about an hour drive for those who aren't local) to visit MIL who has ended up in hospital with a chest infection. Nip out to the Warehouse the get a little fan for her, because it is roasting in the hospital ward........ and finally back home, where we stopped into the local Indian for some dinner.
Whew! What a day. I am so ready for tomorrow, hopefully no where to go...... just some tidying, and plans to alter, now that MIL is ill we will have any extra people at our house, instead of hers.......... that should be easy after today.
I haven't done my Christmas cards, I'm a bit gutted, as I've made them all, but they won't get out in time, so will save them for next year, see, one step ahead already, and will send out some New Year greetings instead, as I have time to do that between Christmas and New Year.
Now, if the kids would only go to sleep I might attempt to wrap some presents, although I might wait for hubby to come home, as I find the neck doesn't take kindly to looking down too much.
I hope you all have a great Christmas, with your family and friends, in whatever setting you do have it, and that the New Year is kind to you.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Having a whinge
I wanted to whinge and whine yesterday, but didn't want to spoil the whole 'whoo hoo Wednesday' thing...... so I'm back today to do it, LOL.
I'm just sick and tired of people moaning, about everything. For goodness sake, if you have an issue then deal with it, do what you can to change it, and if it is not something that can be changed for goodness sake, shut up. Things in the past are in the past, and unless you have learned anything from it, then don't keep going on about it.
Don't blame others for the situation you are in, (I know there are some exceptions there), you are the creator of your own destiny. Just do it.
Funny, as I sit here, I just stretched, (I've got a sore neck, which is now heading now my shoulder and back) and as I stretched I saw a poem that one of the kids got given on a bookmark.
What is life?
Life is a challenge - meet it.
Life is a gift - accept it.
Life is an adventure - dare it.
Life is a sorrow - overcome it.
Life is a tragedy - face it.
Life is a duty - perform it.
Life is a game - play it.
Life is a mystery - unfold it.
Life is a song - sing it.
Life is an opportunity - take it.
Life is a journey - complete it.
Life is a promise - fulfill it.
Life is a beauty - praise it.
Life is a struggle - fight it.
Life is a goal - achieve it.
Life is a puzzle - solve it.
Life is eternal - believe it.
And on that note......... I'm outta here :)
I'm just sick and tired of people moaning, about everything. For goodness sake, if you have an issue then deal with it, do what you can to change it, and if it is not something that can be changed for goodness sake, shut up. Things in the past are in the past, and unless you have learned anything from it, then don't keep going on about it.
Don't blame others for the situation you are in, (I know there are some exceptions there), you are the creator of your own destiny. Just do it.
Funny, as I sit here, I just stretched, (I've got a sore neck, which is now heading now my shoulder and back) and as I stretched I saw a poem that one of the kids got given on a bookmark.
What is life?
Life is a challenge - meet it.
Life is a gift - accept it.
Life is an adventure - dare it.
Life is a sorrow - overcome it.
Life is a tragedy - face it.
Life is a duty - perform it.
Life is a game - play it.
Life is a mystery - unfold it.
Life is a song - sing it.
Life is an opportunity - take it.
Life is a journey - complete it.
Life is a promise - fulfill it.
Life is a beauty - praise it.
Life is a struggle - fight it.
Life is a goal - achieve it.
Life is a puzzle - solve it.
Life is eternal - believe it.
And on that note......... I'm outta here :)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Whoo hoot Wednesday
The smell wafting from the kitchen table, due to a visit here on the weekend, stocking up for pressies.
Finally finishing the lights....... well....... I still really want to put some down the end of the drive, but the logistics of getting power down there is the problem. It's taken a few nights over the last week or two, but we're pretty happy now. Will have to try to get photos!
Only 7 more days of work........ yay.......... although I then have 3 kids home for 3 weeks. What's that you say? I thought you only had 2 boys?!?!? Yes, thats right, I do only have 2 children, but the biggest kid finishes on the 19th aswell. Normally he would have worked through till at least Wednesday, sometimes half of Thursday, but the company he now works for has a close down for 3 weeks, I think it's going to be a long 3 weeks.
Having some time out on Saturday with our local scrapbooking group, I didn't do much, sorted the pages that I had pulled out of my albums, and just generally chatted really. I have been very emotionally drained due to some personal stuff happening, and needed some time away. Whew, that was great!
Ummmmm, I think that is about it, 2 more functions this weekend, and then that's us, apart from the odd school activity, until the big day..... so until then...... I should go do cards, when I say do, I had these great plans of making them, but I think I might just start writing in store cards, at least they're done!
Finally finishing the lights....... well....... I still really want to put some down the end of the drive, but the logistics of getting power down there is the problem. It's taken a few nights over the last week or two, but we're pretty happy now. Will have to try to get photos!
Only 7 more days of work........ yay.......... although I then have 3 kids home for 3 weeks. What's that you say? I thought you only had 2 boys?!?!? Yes, thats right, I do only have 2 children, but the biggest kid finishes on the 19th aswell. Normally he would have worked through till at least Wednesday, sometimes half of Thursday, but the company he now works for has a close down for 3 weeks, I think it's going to be a long 3 weeks.
Having some time out on Saturday with our local scrapbooking group, I didn't do much, sorted the pages that I had pulled out of my albums, and just generally chatted really. I have been very emotionally drained due to some personal stuff happening, and needed some time away. Whew, that was great!
Ummmmm, I think that is about it, 2 more functions this weekend, and then that's us, apart from the odd school activity, until the big day..... so until then...... I should go do cards, when I say do, I had these great plans of making them, but I think I might just start writing in store cards, at least they're done!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
I've done something silly......
..... maybe. About a week ago I found the young fellas bike helmet lying on the floor. Now, I've got to the stage (more soon) about stuff lying around, so I think, (and thats where it gets difficult)
I picked it up and put it away, like in a cupboard. The tricky part is, now I can't find it. I'm not 100% thats what I did, or if I only thought about it, but now the helmet is nowhere to be found. And, until it's found, he's not allowed to ride his bike, which is really hurting him. I'm taking the stance at the moment, that he should have looked after it, but if I had put it away it would have only been for a couple of days, however it's been over a week now, and I'm feeling bad!
When we lived in a smaller house, there were limited places for stuff to be kept. Now we have extra rooms, cupboards, space, garaging etc, things seem more spread out. Like, some computer stuff is in the office, and some in the cupboard in the lounge, letters and bills, etc are sometimes by the computer, because thats where I do online banking, or on the bench as you walk in the kitchen, or in the office......... get the drift?!?! This weekend is free, so I'm going to try to put some procedures in place, label things, define homes, etc. (and hopefully in the process find this blimmen helmet!)
Christmas is around the corner, and I've already had enough of this whole present thing. My husbands family is big on presents, but now everyone has started saying, oh, I don't know what I want, just get me a voucher, well, if we are all exchanging voucher for same or similar amounts, then why bother. Theres not much thought happening these days!
We went to Hamilton for a work function last Saturday night, and stayed over, so when we got up Sunday morning we had breakfast downtown, and then did a bit of Christmas/birthday shopping, without the kids!
The kids at school had the opportunity for a golf day today, so I popped out in
my break to watch, although by the time I got out there, and allowed for time back, I only saw Braden have a couple of shots. He had a great time though, must be running in his blood from his father and grandmother!
Finally, this was something I saw a while ago, and just saw it again on Hannahs blog, so here's my contribution. You have to go to your photos file, or flickr album or whatever you use, go to the sixth folder, and choose the sixth photo.
This was taken on Camerons first day of school, he turns 10 in a month, so it's 5 years ago. Man he looked so tiny! The other 2 include a nicer photo of him posing, and one of him in the junior playground. 
While looking at it, the kids we looking over my shoulder, and we went back and had a look at a few other photos from around that time, they thought it was great, must get my albums back out into the lounge, now that we have that space I was talking about!
I picked it up and put it away, like in a cupboard. The tricky part is, now I can't find it. I'm not 100% thats what I did, or if I only thought about it, but now the helmet is nowhere to be found. And, until it's found, he's not allowed to ride his bike, which is really hurting him. I'm taking the stance at the moment, that he should have looked after it, but if I had put it away it would have only been for a couple of days, however it's been over a week now, and I'm feeling bad!
When we lived in a smaller house, there were limited places for stuff to be kept. Now we have extra rooms, cupboards, space, garaging etc, things seem more spread out. Like, some computer stuff is in the office, and some in the cupboard in the lounge, letters and bills, etc are sometimes by the computer, because thats where I do online banking, or on the bench as you walk in the kitchen, or in the office......... get the drift?!?! This weekend is free, so I'm going to try to put some procedures in place, label things, define homes, etc. (and hopefully in the process find this blimmen helmet!)
Christmas is around the corner, and I've already had enough of this whole present thing. My husbands family is big on presents, but now everyone has started saying, oh, I don't know what I want, just get me a voucher, well, if we are all exchanging voucher for same or similar amounts, then why bother. Theres not much thought happening these days!
We went to Hamilton for a work function last Saturday night, and stayed over, so when we got up Sunday morning we had breakfast downtown, and then did a bit of Christmas/birthday shopping, without the kids!
The kids at school had the opportunity for a golf day today, so I popped out in
my break to watch, although by the time I got out there, and allowed for time back, I only saw Braden have a couple of shots. He had a great time though, must be running in his blood from his father and grandmother!Finally, this was something I saw a while ago, and just saw it again on Hannahs blog, so here's my contribution. You have to go to your photos file, or flickr album or whatever you use, go to the sixth folder, and choose the sixth photo.
This was taken on Camerons first day of school, he turns 10 in a month, so it's 5 years ago. Man he looked so tiny! The other 2 include a nicer photo of him posing, and one of him in the junior playground. 
While looking at it, the kids we looking over my shoulder, and we went back and had a look at a few other photos from around that time, they thought it was great, must get my albums back out into the lounge, now that we have that space I was talking about!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Whoo hoot Wednesday
Can't really think of anything exciting to Whoo hoot about.... just lots of bits and pieces happening.
Christmas is looming, gee how hard it is to organise families. I put my foot down this year, and said we are staying home, (because every year we have spent it on one side of the family,) but opened our house to both sides of the family and all other related and non related strays, and it doesn't seem to be working. Anyway, I've come up with the theory that those that come will have a great day, those that don't will miss out!, and we won't be making any other trips to have 'catch up Christmases'. We have 2 birthdays in the 5 days after Christmas so want to keep things simple.
Christmas lights....... have pulled them out to check them out and plan, bought another couple of sets now that this house has a 'longer' front, therefore more lights needed.
Getting back into exercise. Just made a point of doing it, ahead of other stuff. I'd always thought, 'oh, this needs doing, or I have to be here or there', now I just do it. Ever since we got the bike and home gym I've been hesitant about the gym, not sure if we were doing it right, but a friend put me onto a 'freelance trainer' who will come to your place, and help you out, to what ever level you want, just the basics, or he will keep tabs on you, and do things like kick-boxing with you. It will be good to get the basics under control, will make it all seem worthwhile. (and, as I have absolutely no self control, there is no temptations in the house, which has made it alot easier)
Getting further help for emotional and social issues with our eldest, nothing is set in place yet, but we have finally found an avenue that will work for us. More to come later.
Finally making an appointment for the youngest to see an orthodontist......eeeek, hear the dollars sigh ch-chinging! He seems to have my problem, small mouth not enough room for teeth, so hopefully some teeth out, like they did to me, might help. I was lucky they got in early, and I didn't need braces, or a plate, all I had to do was sit with an iceblock stick (and the dentist said I was allowed to watch TV, yay for the dentist) for half an hour(?) and gently prod my two front teeth forward. It worked! (Now, isn't that a journalling spark if I ever heard one!)
I scrapped heaps over a period of 2 days last week, did 5 pages, couldn't believe it, but haven't done anything since. (just need to take photos)
Mmmmmmm, thats about it..... just stuff happening, but yet nothing exciting!
Christmas is looming, gee how hard it is to organise families. I put my foot down this year, and said we are staying home, (because every year we have spent it on one side of the family,) but opened our house to both sides of the family and all other related and non related strays, and it doesn't seem to be working. Anyway, I've come up with the theory that those that come will have a great day, those that don't will miss out!, and we won't be making any other trips to have 'catch up Christmases'. We have 2 birthdays in the 5 days after Christmas so want to keep things simple.
Christmas lights....... have pulled them out to check them out and plan, bought another couple of sets now that this house has a 'longer' front, therefore more lights needed.
Getting back into exercise. Just made a point of doing it, ahead of other stuff. I'd always thought, 'oh, this needs doing, or I have to be here or there', now I just do it. Ever since we got the bike and home gym I've been hesitant about the gym, not sure if we were doing it right, but a friend put me onto a 'freelance trainer' who will come to your place, and help you out, to what ever level you want, just the basics, or he will keep tabs on you, and do things like kick-boxing with you. It will be good to get the basics under control, will make it all seem worthwhile. (and, as I have absolutely no self control, there is no temptations in the house, which has made it alot easier)
Getting further help for emotional and social issues with our eldest, nothing is set in place yet, but we have finally found an avenue that will work for us. More to come later.
Finally making an appointment for the youngest to see an orthodontist......eeeek, hear the dollars sigh ch-chinging! He seems to have my problem, small mouth not enough room for teeth, so hopefully some teeth out, like they did to me, might help. I was lucky they got in early, and I didn't need braces, or a plate, all I had to do was sit with an iceblock stick (and the dentist said I was allowed to watch TV, yay for the dentist) for half an hour(?) and gently prod my two front teeth forward. It worked! (Now, isn't that a journalling spark if I ever heard one!)
I scrapped heaps over a period of 2 days last week, did 5 pages, couldn't believe it, but haven't done anything since. (just need to take photos)
Mmmmmmm, thats about it..... just stuff happening, but yet nothing exciting!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Labour Weekend
Not much happening here! What about your place?
I had my sisters kids stay Friday night, and we just mucked around yesterday, bit of TV, playstation, bikes, etc, and then our kids stayed at her place, while we went to the movies. There wasn't much on, so we saw Burn after reading, not really worth it, IMO, but I guess you don't know these things till you watch them.
Today was much of the same, although the house was quite quiet with the kids gone, I got up and made some muffins, mmmmmmmm, Pumpkin muffins.
I probably went a bit over the top, too much cream cheese frosting, but I was trying to make them look good. The new piping bag split it's seam, so I resorted to the good 'ole Glad Snaplock bag, but ended up sticking my nail through it, so the last few were just iced with a knife (not that it changed the taste, LOL)
What about the weather today? Crazy! It was beautiful when I got up, so put my washing out, yet half an hour later it rained, I ran and got it in as I didn't want to spin it again before putting in the dryer, only for it to clear up again. We contemplated washing the cars, before it hosed down, and hailed and got cold. We lit the fire, and went to pick the kids up, and it cleared up and got really warm, so were expecting it to be quite hot in the lounge when we got home, but never mind, it rained again....... I give up!
Anyway, here is a page I did a few weeks ago, might even do another to match it, with more photos that we have of the individual family groups..... and now I might go work on our Australia pages some more.
Hope you weekend has been all you wanted, whether you are busy, or just chilling!
I had my sisters kids stay Friday night, and we just mucked around yesterday, bit of TV, playstation, bikes, etc, and then our kids stayed at her place, while we went to the movies. There wasn't much on, so we saw Burn after reading, not really worth it, IMO, but I guess you don't know these things till you watch them.
Today was much of the same, although the house was quite quiet with the kids gone, I got up and made some muffins, mmmmmmmm, Pumpkin muffins.
I probably went a bit over the top, too much cream cheese frosting, but I was trying to make them look good. The new piping bag split it's seam, so I resorted to the good 'ole Glad Snaplock bag, but ended up sticking my nail through it, so the last few were just iced with a knife (not that it changed the taste, LOL)What about the weather today? Crazy! It was beautiful when I got up, so put my washing out, yet half an hour later it rained, I ran and got it in as I didn't want to spin it again before putting in the dryer, only for it to clear up again. We contemplated washing the cars, before it hosed down, and hailed and got cold. We lit the fire, and went to pick the kids up, and it cleared up and got really warm, so were expecting it to be quite hot in the lounge when we got home, but never mind, it rained again....... I give up!
Anyway, here is a page I did a few weeks ago, might even do another to match it, with more photos that we have of the individual family groups..... and now I might go work on our Australia pages some more.Hope you weekend has been all you wanted, whether you are busy, or just chilling!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Time waster
OK, so I have so many better things I should be doing, but this is lots of fun
If you go here, you can do lots of cool things with your photos (click on them will give you a much better idea of what I'm on about)
Not like you needed anymore ideas on how to waste time, aye???!??!?
If you go here, you can do lots of cool things with your photos (click on them will give you a much better idea of what I'm on about)
Not like you needed anymore ideas on how to waste time, aye???!??!?
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
school holidays........
.... are neither here nor there for me, KWIM, I like having some time off, but having the kids around is a drag (LOL, damn those kids). Braden is fine, he can entertain himself, wanders off, gets busy, finds friends, and if no friends are around he's just as happy, but Cameron gets bored easily. He doesn't cope well with no routine, finds it hard to do things by himself, and likes to annoy everyone. They haven't been too bad, we've made sure we got out for walks, park, library, and also had a couple of days out. They have had their cousins stay last night, and now all 4 have gone to the local church for Craft and Creations.
The first Saturday we were in Hamilton anyway, so took them to see Journey to the Centre of the Earth. I wasn't too keen, but it was the kids choice, and the best one for us all to see, and was pleasantly surprised, it was quite good.
On Friday Jon was working in Rotorua in the morning, so the kids and I went over mid morning, went for a wander around the shops, had lunch at the lake, and then met up with Jon and went to the luge. We went about a year ago, but they are doing lots of work at the moment. There is a new 'launch' point, new helmets and another set of chairlifts, as well as photo points (quite reasonably priced).
It's the first time Braden has been able to go by himself, which has been good
in one way, but it's getting really expensive with all 4 of us loving it, and wanting more and more!
We've done some activities around home, made sushi, that was fun,
and coincidently I found this cool game, really gets your mind thinking, (lots of fun for the kids too, LOL)
I haven't done much scrapbooking, despite spending Saturday at an all day crop (but that was just time out for me) I did do this page on Saturday, probably the first time I've started and
finished a page in a day. It is a sketch Trina's that I've had stashed away to use, for ages, so was pleased to use it for these photos which had been around for a bit too.
Right, better go sort these boys out, I'm swapping for some girls this afternoon, that should be interesting.
The first Saturday we were in Hamilton anyway, so took them to see Journey to the Centre of the Earth. I wasn't too keen, but it was the kids choice, and the best one for us all to see, and was pleasantly surprised, it was quite good.
On Friday Jon was working in Rotorua in the morning, so the kids and I went over mid morning, went for a wander around the shops, had lunch at the lake, and then met up with Jon and went to the luge. We went about a year ago, but they are doing lots of work at the moment. There is a new 'launch' point, new helmets and another set of chairlifts, as well as photo points (quite reasonably priced).
It's the first time Braden has been able to go by himself, which has been good
in one way, but it's getting really expensive with all 4 of us loving it, and wanting more and more!We've done some activities around home, made sushi, that was fun,
and coincidently I found this cool game, really gets your mind thinking, (lots of fun for the kids too, LOL)I haven't done much scrapbooking, despite spending Saturday at an all day crop (but that was just time out for me) I did do this page on Saturday, probably the first time I've started and
finished a page in a day. It is a sketch Trina's that I've had stashed away to use, for ages, so was pleased to use it for these photos which had been around for a bit too.Right, better go sort these boys out, I'm swapping for some girls this afternoon, that should be interesting.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
So........
....... last weekend, we finished work midday on Friday and jumped on a plane to Christchurch for the weekend.
We didn't really have any firm plans, except to catch up with SIL, and to catch our plan home!
We had a good ride down, and got to our hotel, before deciding to head out for early dinner, as we'd hardly had any lunch to due flight times. After a really nice meal, (with some interesting entertainment, some sort of party meeting place, pirates, and all sorts of costumes, a P party we think) we went for a wander, and ended up at the casino. We had some luck on the roulette table, so left while we were ahead, and watched the last half of the Warriors game over a drink.
We were lucky to snap a great deal for accomodation at the Grand Chancellor, including breakfast, so we enjoyed breakfast in the hotel, and then wandered downtown. We went to the Arts Market, (didn't buy much,) and then down to Scrapbook Art, again, didn't buy much, and then wandered back into town. We found TimeZone, and spent awhile there, just chilling, it was lots of fun.
We then met SIL for a late lunch, and then back to the hotel for a snooze. We walked down (up???) town, and bought movie tickets, to see Stepbrothers. I was a little hesitant to see it, as the last movie that Jon had chosen (Tropic Thunder,) really bombed, but it was OK, not the funniest, but watchable. We had a little to eat, remember we were still full from late lunch. I was quite keen to go out, in town, but Jon was feeling a bit grandpa-ish so we had an early night (well, it was about 12 by the time we walked home)
In the morning we had breakfast again at the hotel, and then caught a bus out to Riccarton Mall, and met up with Vicki for coffee. It was nice to see you again Vicki, we really got to stop meeting like this (she bumped into Jon while I was in a shop).
We went down to check out Punting, but had a wait for a while, so someone had a nana nap by the river, I couldn't sleep, bit paranoid, but Jon was not worried at all obviously.
We caught our 'boat', with a great guide, young fella on a working holiday, a few snapshots, nothing exciting.
We then wandered back through town, cashed in our tickets at TimeZone, and picked up our bags from the hotel. We were in a predicament, too early to head out to the airport, yet not enough time to do anything else. We ended up heading out to the airport, grabbing a magazine, and just chilling for an hour.
Our flight home was quite horrible, lots of turbulence, our attendant said in her 6 years of travelling it was the worst she had experienced. The take off and landing were fine, and there was nothing the pilot could do, but it gave me grief with my ears, and was quite uncomfortable for a couple of hours. We got home about 11pm, and crashed quite quickly.
We were so tired, but put it down to all the walking we did, it didn't seem like much at the time, (it must have been the good company, LOL) but when we looked at the map, and put it in perspective, it was quite a bit, (and we were quite tired before we even got there, it had been a busy few weeks)
Anyway, we had a great weekend, even though we were tired, would still do it again.
We didn't really have any firm plans, except to catch up with SIL, and to catch our plan home!
We had a good ride down, and got to our hotel, before deciding to head out for early dinner, as we'd hardly had any lunch to due flight times. After a really nice meal, (with some interesting entertainment, some sort of party meeting place, pirates, and all sorts of costumes, a P party we think) we went for a wander, and ended up at the casino. We had some luck on the roulette table, so left while we were ahead, and watched the last half of the Warriors game over a drink.
We were lucky to snap a great deal for accomodation at the Grand Chancellor, including breakfast, so we enjoyed breakfast in the hotel, and then wandered downtown. We went to the Arts Market, (didn't buy much,) and then down to Scrapbook Art, again, didn't buy much, and then wandered back into town. We found TimeZone, and spent awhile there, just chilling, it was lots of fun.
We then met SIL for a late lunch, and then back to the hotel for a snooze. We walked down (up???) town, and bought movie tickets, to see Stepbrothers. I was a little hesitant to see it, as the last movie that Jon had chosen (Tropic Thunder,) really bombed, but it was OK, not the funniest, but watchable. We had a little to eat, remember we were still full from late lunch. I was quite keen to go out, in town, but Jon was feeling a bit grandpa-ish so we had an early night (well, it was about 12 by the time we walked home)In the morning we had breakfast again at the hotel, and then caught a bus out to Riccarton Mall, and met up with Vicki for coffee. It was nice to see you again Vicki, we really got to stop meeting like this (she bumped into Jon while I was in a shop).
We went down to check out Punting, but had a wait for a while, so someone had a nana nap by the river, I couldn't sleep, bit paranoid, but Jon was not worried at all obviously.
We caught our 'boat', with a great guide, young fella on a working holiday, a few snapshots, nothing exciting.
We then wandered back through town, cashed in our tickets at TimeZone, and picked up our bags from the hotel. We were in a predicament, too early to head out to the airport, yet not enough time to do anything else. We ended up heading out to the airport, grabbing a magazine, and just chilling for an hour.Our flight home was quite horrible, lots of turbulence, our attendant said in her 6 years of travelling it was the worst she had experienced. The take off and landing were fine, and there was nothing the pilot could do, but it gave me grief with my ears, and was quite uncomfortable for a couple of hours. We got home about 11pm, and crashed quite quickly.
We were so tired, but put it down to all the walking we did, it didn't seem like much at the time, (it must have been the good company, LOL) but when we looked at the map, and put it in perspective, it was quite a bit, (and we were quite tired before we even got there, it had been a busy few weeks)
Anyway, we had a great weekend, even though we were tired, would still do it again.
OK, Ok, I'm still here
...... after a not so gentle hint from a secret lurker, I'm here to say I'm still around.
Not too much happening.
A full day of 5 aside soccer, on Fathers Day of all days. Very tiring, especially as we had to drive nearly an hour there, and then we stayed and took my Dad out for dinner, and home again. Our team didn't do very well, not for want of trying though, I thought they'd done so well.
A couple of weekends ago we had soccer prizegiving. Before the actual prizegiving, there is a parents vs child game, which Dad participated in. The day before we had helped do the fertilizer drive with the Lions, as fundraising for the soccer club, and I had hurt my back, so I was out of soccer.
We were very proud to see (and.... the bloody batteries died right at the wrong time) Braden receive 'Most Improved Player'. We'd just had a conversation the night before, prepping him for the fact that not everyone would get a medal, etc, so you should have seen his face when he heard his name.
Last weekend I got out into the vege garden, had prepped it earlier, so planted some seeds, and they've come away well, in fact I was quite surprised to see how well.
My niece was also staying, so we planted some sunflower seeds too, and then she can have some at home.
I'll be back to write about our weekend away!
Not too much happening.
A full day of 5 aside soccer, on Fathers Day of all days. Very tiring, especially as we had to drive nearly an hour there, and then we stayed and took my Dad out for dinner, and home again. Our team didn't do very well, not for want of trying though, I thought they'd done so well.
A couple of weekends ago we had soccer prizegiving. Before the actual prizegiving, there is a parents vs child game, which Dad participated in. The day before we had helped do the fertilizer drive with the Lions, as fundraising for the soccer club, and I had hurt my back, so I was out of soccer.
We were very proud to see (and.... the bloody batteries died right at the wrong time) Braden receive 'Most Improved Player'. We'd just had a conversation the night before, prepping him for the fact that not everyone would get a medal, etc, so you should have seen his face when he heard his name.Last weekend I got out into the vege garden, had prepped it earlier, so planted some seeds, and they've come away well, in fact I was quite surprised to see how well.
My niece was also staying, so we planted some sunflower seeds too, and then she can have some at home.
I'll be back to write about our weekend away!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Wow, what a weekend...........
....... and it's only 3/4 of the way gone, some time for me this afternoon I feel!
So far already we have:
- Entertained family who stayed Friday night and Saturday morning.
- Washing
- Braden had his final game of soccer for the season. Their team won their division, in fact, they won it even before yesterdays game. They played so well, yesterday in particular, and have really come together as a team. I had a proud Mother moment yesterday, when standing on the sideline, I overhead 2 ladies talking, one knew my son, one didn't. The one who didn't commented to the other, while watching Braden "Gee, that Braden's a really good player" I couldn't help but smirk to myself, with my back turned, made my heart swell! After the game we gave a little gift to the coach, and all the kids went back to her place for lunch and to watch the video of their games.
- Been for a family walk, just wandered up town, and came home the long way, nice to get out in the fresh air for a change.
- Did a huge tidy up in the garden, cleaned up some areas that hadn't been done for a while. There is an area that has been a garden of some sort, but has been let go. It is level with the grass, so I just gave it a good weed, roughed it up, and will grass it. It won't be flash looking, but thats OK, it's around a corner and at least we will be able to mow it.
- Put together our gym and the bike, and tidied up all the packaging that came with that!
- Mowed the lawns. Met the neighbours. Made scones for lunch. Supervised children. And all done with 2 extras, man, I forget how hard it is to look after a 2 year old. She just wants to be my shadow and talk to me non stop!
- Now I'm off to pick up Juniors bike, which got left on the farm weeks ago, and with this fine weather he is missing it, hoping the littlie will sleep, then drop them off home, and have that time to myself for an hour or two before the week starts.
ETA Oooops, I hit the wrong button and it never posted, so now I've got the bike, let the little one have a roam around the farm and see all the animals, got some cool photos that I'll make into a little laminated book for her, and have picked up the grass seed!!! Just a few more hours left, I think I'll do some baking.
So far already we have:
- Entertained family who stayed Friday night and Saturday morning.
- Washing
- Braden had his final game of soccer for the season. Their team won their division, in fact, they won it even before yesterdays game. They played so well, yesterday in particular, and have really come together as a team. I had a proud Mother moment yesterday, when standing on the sideline, I overhead 2 ladies talking, one knew my son, one didn't. The one who didn't commented to the other, while watching Braden "Gee, that Braden's a really good player" I couldn't help but smirk to myself, with my back turned, made my heart swell! After the game we gave a little gift to the coach, and all the kids went back to her place for lunch and to watch the video of their games.
- Been for a family walk, just wandered up town, and came home the long way, nice to get out in the fresh air for a change.
- Did a huge tidy up in the garden, cleaned up some areas that hadn't been done for a while. There is an area that has been a garden of some sort, but has been let go. It is level with the grass, so I just gave it a good weed, roughed it up, and will grass it. It won't be flash looking, but thats OK, it's around a corner and at least we will be able to mow it.
- Put together our gym and the bike, and tidied up all the packaging that came with that!
- Mowed the lawns. Met the neighbours. Made scones for lunch. Supervised children. And all done with 2 extras, man, I forget how hard it is to look after a 2 year old. She just wants to be my shadow and talk to me non stop!
- Now I'm off to pick up Juniors bike, which got left on the farm weeks ago, and with this fine weather he is missing it, hoping the littlie will sleep, then drop them off home, and have that time to myself for an hour or two before the week starts.
ETA Oooops, I hit the wrong button and it never posted, so now I've got the bike, let the little one have a roam around the farm and see all the animals, got some cool photos that I'll make into a little laminated book for her, and have picked up the grass seed!!! Just a few more hours left, I think I'll do some baking.
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