Our Unique Journey

Turning Two

2012-01-24T12:44:00.000+10:00

After going all out for Cooper's first birthday I was content to have something a little less key to celebrate his second birthday so we decided against having a party and instead made the most of the weekend and headed up to the sunshine coast and spent the day showing Cooper all of our old favourite spots we frequented before he came along.

First stop was the sunshine plaza to pick up his presents and then headed to Caloundra where we spent the morning playing in the water park and playground. After a picnic lunch it was time to head to a mate's house where Cooper had a blast playing with his new found girlfriend Ruby.

For his actual birthday we spent the day at home enjoying the fact we didn't need to go anywhere in the rain and had a lovely visit from Cooper's Aunties and Nanny before they headed off to start their adventures at boarding school. I am little disappointed in how disorganised I was hence the number 2 design but I figure I redeemed myself with the colours and freckles...though don't ever listen to your husband when they say one packet is enough!

Wordless Wednesday: Big Kid

2012-01-18T12:43:00.000+10:00

Playing along here.

Yesterday

2012-01-13T06:50:00.001+10:00

10 minute tantrum over what he was going to wear...around the house.

9 spontaneous cuddles and kisses initiated by Cooper.

8 hours spent telling myself that every thing will be ok and *this* won't last forever.

7 phone calls to labour hire company's and listening to their lies and bullshit.

6 minutes spent dancing in the lounge room like no one was watching.

5 minute's taken to do the day's art activity.

4 wee accidents on the car mat.

3 hours to vacuum and mop the house.

2 wee's on the toilet!

1 Coffee.

0 bank balance.

Beating the Heat

2012-01-12T07:04:00.001+10:00

After a somewhat mild summer thus far Queensland turned it up a notch over the last few days and it has been absolutely scorching! Determined not to just sit around in the comfort of our air-conditioning we decided to put the boat in and create our own breeze as we powered up the creeks and out to the bay at Redcliffe.

After having no wind all day the moment we anchored just past the bridge it picked up and as there was no way I was getting out of the boat in the middle of the channel to go swimming I was forced to find my sea legs quickly.

The boys however had no such qualms and jumped in without fear, even the jellyfish didn't faze them, though Coop was very content on staying inside the tube...smart boy!

There's a Carnival at the park

2012-01-05T06:27:00.000+10:00

For the past few weeks I have driven past the same park wondering why the carnival rides were still there from the Carols until the other day my curiosity got the better of me and I decided to see if they were actually running.

Well it turns out they were and even better all the rides were $2 a pop! There isn't a huge range but the 9 rides that are going cater for big or small and because it's so quiet you end up getting to ride by yourself. Cooper had an absolute ball riding the motorbikes and dodgem cars...though he was a little miffed he couldn't join the 'big' kids on the fast rides.

We didn't realize the massive slide was in fact a water slide so we will definitely be going back with appropriate clothes and towels and conquering that sucker later in the week!!

If you are on the north side of Brisbane these school holidays and want to check it out you can find it at the Pine Rivers Park (Gympie Road) Strathpine.

Wordless Wednesday: Turd Chair

2012-01-04T07:57:00.000+10:00

Playing along over here.

Tinchi Tamba Wetlands

2012-01-03T07:39:00.001+10:00

We have been making a big effort this week to get out of the house and experience new places and to take advantage of what we have around us. So yesterday as the afternoon was coming to an end we decided to jump in the car and try to find the park/boat ramp that we had spotted when out in the boat the other day.

Turns out it was about a 5 minute car trip away from home and whilst it appeared popular it's very much a local knowledge spot and thanks to great planning there could be a hundred people there but you can still find a spot anywhere along the board walk and feel like you were the only ones there.

Lots of people had their fishing rods in, though we didn't see anything actually get caught, oh except a few snags. Nonetheless it will be a great spot for Cooper to practice his casting as there is more then enough space..I hope!

There is also a really comfortable 2k circuit that takes you around the river and up in to the creeks though learn from us and do not take a plastic bike...parts of the board walk has spaced out planks which caused the bike to rattle so hard we thought it was going to fall apart.

Tubing at Somerset

2012-01-02T08:41:00.000+10:00

On Friday we headed out west with some of Jim's family and a tribe of kids to Somerset Dam for a day of swimming and tubing in freshwater. I have only been tubing once, on our honey moon, up at Long Island and it was May so there was no way I was going in..no matter how hard the fella tried.

Maybe it was the fact we were in a dam and not the middle of the ocean that my determination wasn't as strong, or maybe it was the fact that my husband was driving the boat, either way I ate crap three times and can I just say that I don't bounce like I used to...four days later and muscles I never knew I had are still sore.

Even Cooper got in on the act and had his first ever tube ride and loved every second of it! I did too especially as I knew there was no way I was going in again as hubby took it extra slow..though there was a moment where I thought I might do my first ever back flip thanks to another boats wake lol.

2011

2012-01-01T11:21:00.000+10:00

I had planned to do a new years post and reflect on the past year but to be honest there isn't that much I would like to rehash, sure there has been a silver lining, but the overall theme for 2011 was pretty suckful. So instead I am choosing to step in to 2012 with a positive frame of mind and remembering that I control my own destiny and its about time I took the reins.

But here are the 5 most pivotal posts for 2011

Cooper's first birthday

The Big Wet

Blogging and Friendship

Saying Goodbye is Never Easy

Dark Days Ahead

Our Christmas Collage

2011-12-29T09:47:00.001+10:00

Christmas is over for another year and whilst I didn't plan to take time off from all things social media it would appear that fate had other ideas ( fate being Cooper) and on Christmas eve my phone smashed and whilst it still worked I took it as a sign to take a step back and soak up the holiday season.

The lead up to Christmas had been stressful, limited funds and no work can do that, but thanks to our amazing families we were able to pull off an amazing spread and an amazing day. Though the day was great there was that feeling of something missing and that was my sister, her partner and of course my little nephew ~~Jasper~~ Jabber.

As Tiff pointed out it was bound to happen sooner or later with us having our own families but it sucked and I hope that next year we will all be able to celebrate together. The positive was that Jim was able to spend Christmas with his family which we worked out the last time he had done that was nine years ago (when we got together) so it was well overdue!

Cooper was spoilt with presents but couldn't get past his music kit which he opened first so all of the other presents were tossed to the side for about an hour as he rocked it out on the guitar....until we put a sheet over it so he forgot about it and opened another present.

I did take way more photos but someone took back their camera and forgot to take out the memory card so I am left with the few I took on my iPhone when I did have it out ( I still love you Phoebe). Though I forgot to take a picture of Pa who I got to see on Boxing day as he was down visiting my Aunt & Uncle and I like to think Ma was around when I won $21 on the scrathies Pa got me. I may or may not of said out loud jokingly that I always knew I was Ma's favourite :P

Boxing Day

2011-12-26T20:50:00.000+10:00

We were up early and convinced mum and Rolly to come out on the boat before they headed home which they happily agreed to. We met Jim's cousin at the boat ramp which turns out is only a 5 minute drive from our house and launched the boat. We followed them all the way around to the Redcliffe bridge before parting ways as they were staying out to fish and we made our way back to the boat ramp. Luckily we had been observant and noted a few landmarks because we kind of got a tad lost on the way back but after a few detours we finally made it back to where we started.

Lesson learnt always know where you are going!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T06:10:00.000+10:00

I would like to thank you for following me and the family on our adventures this year and I hope to see you all back here in the new year because I am determined to make 2012 one hell of a rocking year!

May the festive season be kind to you all and I hope all our dreams come true these holiday's.

Christmas Photo Drama

2011-12-22T14:19:00.002+10:00

So the other day my sister in law was over with my niece and I decided spur of the moment that I would take some Christmas photos before having to give back my sister's camera on the weekend. It would seem Cooper wasn't interested in posing and instead was determined to get his hands on the camera which wasn't going to happen and so after a few arguments I went to pick him up and forgot that the camera was around my neck.

Can you guess where this is going? Yep the camera and lens connected with his right cheek and within seconds his eye begun to turn a nice shade of black! I felt terrible and realized very quickly that the photo shoot was not going to go quite to plan.

Oh well I am sure Cooper will use this photo one day to prove what a horrible mother I was :P

* Oh and in case you were wondering Cooper was fine in fact it didn't stop him from wanting the camera which 90% of those tears were over.

Wordless Wednesday: Spork Vs Hands

2011-12-21T06:38:00.000+10:00

Playing along here and here.

Santa Wrapping Paper

2011-12-20T09:54:00.000+10:00

Now that Cooper is getting older and becoming more aware of Christmas I thought this year would be a great time to start introducing some family traditions, one of those being Santa wrapping paper. I have decided that we will make our own wrapping paper (just out of butchers paper) for as long as the kids think its cool and then we will "post" it to Santa.

I am hoping by doing this I will be able to start conversations during the art activity about the real meaning of Christmas and that they hopefully begin to understand quality vs quantity. I want my children to appreciate what they get and not to be disappointed if their present isn't the biggest, loudest, or most expensive.

Given that Coop is still young we didn't do the whole postage thing... I figure I have a few more years to work out how I am actually going to do that.

How does Santa deliver the presents at your place?

Point & Shoot: 4WD on Bribie

2011-12-19T20:04:00.000+10:00

After having one of those week's where nothing went to plan it was so nice to get away from it all on Sunday and go 4WD with Jim's cousins over at Bribie Island. Jim had helped them lay their concrete slab the day before so it was their way of saying thank you and we had an absolute blast, Cooper especially!

We were so keen we had set up our spot by 7.30am and thanks to grey skies we had the whole place to ourself until about 9.00am when I swear the whole population of Bribie decided to come out and descend all around us. I guess I can't blame them we really did pick the best spot.

Playing along with Lou.

Look who's nearly 2!

2011-12-16T07:02:00.000+10:00

It feels like only yesterday that he was a wee little baby that relied on me for everything and now all of a sudden I have a little toddler that is asserting his independence everyday...in both good and bad ways! The good definitely outweighs the bad ,but boy oh boy who ever said boys are not emotional hasn't met my kid. In a blink of an eye Cooper can go from laughing to crying over something as simple as a toy not wanting to play the game and lets not get me started if he dares drop a speck of food.

Then there's bedtime, sadly gone are the days where I could put Cooper down in his cot and he would happily go off to sleep at 7.00pm. For some reason for the past week he has decided that he will scream the place down until you let him out where he promptly makes a bed in the lounge room and will watch TV to some ungodly hour. Needless to say I am currently working on rectifying this FAST! If there is a lesson to be learnt in this it would have to be DON'T RUSH THE BIG BED.

Luckily for this little fella he has personality plus and constantly has me giggling with the random stuff he does. He is very much a people person, thrives on it, and reminds me of me when I was younger though I am hoping unlike me he is actually funny and doesn't just think he is. With a face like that I think he's going to be ok.

I am super proud of Cooper and his toileting! I still jump for joy every time he does a "wee wee" on the toilet and whilst our success rate is still only about 40% he knows what's going on down there and will come and find me if he does wet his pants. As for number two's he's a shocker for doing the sneaky outside and then coming to tell me, he is also not immune to a good old finger paint (gross won't even go there). Not sure if I am ready for it but he's also started waking in the middle of the night crying because he needs to do a wee...I may or may not tell him to just do it in his nappy on occasions.

I could go on and on about all the other stuff he does that has me in tears of laughter ( or exasperation) but I think that's enough for one day and I think I have fulfilled my Cooper requirements for my mum and sisters who are missing him, and me I am sure!

HPM: Xmas Party

2011-12-15T07:07:00.000+10:00

Our theme for the week is Christmas Party.

Considering I don't actually have a *job* right now the closest thing to a Christmas party I would of attended this year was the Hello Blogger Event...and I didn't even manage that. But if I had managed to go I would of been wearing something like this.

I am a big lover of the summer dress and this one is probably my favourite as it gives me a nice shape, isn't too short and is one of the few items of clothing that actually make me look like I have a bust.

I remember the first time I saw this dress just weeks after giving birth to Cooper and knew it was coming home with me...then I saw the price tag and reluctantly put it back. I couldn't get it out of my head so the next day I went back and found it marked down by 75% and I knew it was fate (or something like that) and it has been hanging in my cupboard just waiting to be worn.

Now check out Dani and Zoe's blog and see what they have come up with this week.

Wordless Wednesday: Father & Son

2011-12-14T06:14:00.000+10:00

Playing along with

Fun on the Santa Express

2011-12-13T18:02:00.000+10:00

Last week whilst reading the paper I came across an ad promoting the Santa Express and immediately sent Zoe an email to see if she would be interested in coming along. After having to explain to her that is was an extra train service being run by QR where you could jump on board and have your picture taken with Santa for a gold coin donation, she was in and we made the decison to leave from my local station.

Even though Cooper has been on a few train rides since we moved here the wonder and excitement is yet to wear off and you can tell from a mile away that he is still a country boy at heart. So you can imagine his face when we got on board and the carriages were decorated in their full Christmas glory and the sound of Santa's jolly laugh greeted him...actually it was all nearly too much and he needed a moment to take it in.

We made our way up to Santa with the hand made cards the boys had made him and one by one they handed them over, had their picture taken, and then very happily obliged in taking a candy cane to enjoy for the rest of the journey. Things like this depend a lot on the demeanour of the Santa and I just have to say this Santa was awesome and went out of his way to make every child and adult feel welcomed and acknowledged. Top job Santa!

Zoe and I hadn't discussed how far we would go and decided to just wing it and get off when the kids got bored. They surprised us and I am sure if I hadn't forgotten Cooper's lunch box full of food they would of happily rode all the way to Nambour and back.

It was an awesome morning for the kids (and us) and has made Zo and I more determined to get out there and look for new things to do with the boys. The only trouble I think we are going to have is that now the kids expect Santa to be on every train they take which is what happened all the way home. Thankfully for me my child doesn't talk yet!

Point & Shoot: Good Food with Good Company

2011-12-12T15:19:00.001+10:00

Whilst not everything went to plan this weekend and I sadly missed out on the last Hello Blogger Event for the year on Sunday, I did get to enjoy a great night on Saturday with one of my best friends and her lovely fiance at home hosting a very casual dinner party. It was nice to catch up with Peta and now that school is out I am hoping we can do it again soon... especially if she keeps bringing bottles of Rekorderling to share!

My Lasagna is my fail safe recipe that I always go to when cooking for people, especially for the first time, and after nearly 7 years of cooking it I think I may of just perfected it...the four cups of bechamel sauce might have something to do with it. Ha!

Do you have a 'safe' recipe that you cook again, and again, and maybe even again?

Deck the Halls

2011-12-09T11:43:00.001+10:00

With only 17 days until Christmas I thought I better pull my finger out and finish off the last of the decorating and embrace the Christmas cheer. I am loving that Cooper is that little bit older and has some sense of what a magical time of the year it is and I can't wait to show him the lights on the weekend. I have a feeling that the photo with Santa is not going to go as well this year...though he will probably surprise me and be fine or do as I expect and try and pull the poor guy's beard off.

I will be sure to let you know how it goes, but first I have to take him to fix that of mop of hair.

HPM: Date Night

2011-12-08T09:38:00.001+10:00

Our theme for the week is Date Night.

I had planned to pull out one my 'special' dresses that I am still waiting to wear out on a date but the weather gods just weren't on my side and for the past week it has either been raining, cold, or both! So instead I went with comfort which is what I always do when I am cold and teamed a pair of tights with a tunic, scarf, and a pair of purple ballet flats. Simple and comfy which is all I really want when enjoying a night off with my hubby.

Now head over to Zoe and Dani's blogs and check out their twists on this week's theme.

Wordless Wednesday: Bare Bum

2011-12-07T10:11:00.001+10:00

Playing along over here and here.

Point & Shoot: Rockin' Out

2011-12-05T10:20:00.000+10:00

Another weekend gone making it that little bit closer to Christmas and whilst I have done pretty much zero of my Christmas shopping I do have a band kit in the cupboard for Cooper that has guitar, mixer and microphone I got in the mid-year sale. After watching how much fun he had with the Guitar Hero over the weekend I am now in no rush to buy anything else as I think he will be set..until his birthday anyway.

Playing along with Lou

HPM: Op Shop

2011-12-01T19:53:00.000+10:00

Our theme for the week is Op-shop.

Since moving here I have heard lots of great things about the Lifeline just down the road from me, so when I saw this week's theme, I had no excuse but to go and check it out. That morning it wasn't even 9.00am and already I was sweating profusely so I was drawn to the dress rack and and when I saw this gem I knew it had to be mine.

It had $10.00 on the tag, which for second hand is crazy, even for a 'brand name', and if my grandmother taught me anything it was never to pay the price on the tag, so in the end I got it for $5.00 which really was a bargain.

I can see this becoming my 'home dress' as it is so cool to wear and I can totally get away with the no bra thing in it.

Don't forget to check out Dani and Zoe's posts and see what they scored for under $20.00.

Wordless Wednesday: Escape Plan?

2011-11-30T06:49:00.000+10:00

Playing along over here and here.

Playing Catch Up

2011-11-29T06:22:00.000+10:00

So I have been a little slack with the whole posting thing lately, a combination of laziness and not yet finding a routine that works for everyone, but I am working on it and just in case you have wondered what I have been up to here is a snap shot of the last 2 (!) weeks

We had a weekend in Noosa with the family to attend a wedding of a close family friend, and then spent the following day sprawled out at Sunshine Beach near where we used to live feeling sorry for ourselves and wishing we all didn't have to drive home. It was great, though weddings with toddlers are just not as much fun, especially when your child insists on break dancing right next to the wedding cake!

Then there is all the random stuff...

...like starting the toilet training process with Cooper, breaking out the sewing machine and finishing off brooches that I started before we moved, and posing for Cooper who seems to think that he is now the photographer of the house.

There have been adventures in the city, with and without hubby, and how embarrassing I kind of got lost in South Bank and had to walk across the bridge as at least I knew where the station was. Amazing how you can be in a place with so many people and feel so alone! Thankfully another mum saw me struggling and kindly waited and then walked with me the rest of the way to the station, which made up for all the awful people that gave me daggers the entire train trip home because I had chosen to take the big pram..lesson learnt!

Then this weekend saw us break our own rule and put the Christmas tree up after getting our dose of Christmas cheer at the Carols and I even got a few hours off and got to enjoy some wonderful adult company with people I feel very lucky to call friends.

Point & Shoot: Carols in the Park

2011-11-28T13:04:00.001+10:00

Despite the threats of a storm all day Saturday we were lucky enough for it to hold off just long enough for us to check out the Carols in the Park just down the road from us. As soon as we walked in we realised that most of the rides were going to be a little old for Coops. So instead opted to do what 90% of the parents had done and bought him a $10.00 bubble blower, that lit up in neon colours, and let him be one of the 'those' kids that annoyed people whilst they tried to eat their pluto pups or fairy floss on their picnic rugs.

Playing along over here with Lou.

HPM: Wedding

2011-11-24T08:16:00.001+10:00

Our theme for the week is Wedding.

Which was great timing as I attended a wedding on the weekend for a lovely boy we have known for so long we call him our cousin. The wedding was beautiful, helped along by the gorgeous backdrop of the Noosa Botanical Gardens up in the hills of Cooroy, and a perfect Spring day.

I had actually planned to wear one of my sister's dresses but ten minutes before leaving I felt it was a tad short and in the end went with what I had originally packed which was my bargain $5.00 dress from the mix apparel range, my silver wedding shoes, and some silver accesoires like my Pollie neckalce and Pandora bracelet.

In the end I was so glad I went with this dress as it was really comfy and loose fitting which meant I could eat (and DRINK) as much as I liked without being restricted. Plus it had pockets so I was able to get around the reception without carting my handbag around the place.

Oh and having two gorgeous sisters either side of you always helps to make you look hotter then what you really are (Shh that's my secret..even if sometimes it backfires and people ask if I am their MUM!?!)

Now head over and check out Zoe and Dani's latest instalment and why not join in yourself ?

HPM: Beach

2011-11-17T06:51:00.000+10:00

Our theme for the week is Beach.

You would be forgiven if you thought I had mixed up my themes and was still in last week, I can assure you I'm not, just turns out I really love me some stripes. I picked this dress up (which is really a nighty but shh) at Pick n Pay for 5 bucks and teamed up with a belt makes for perfect beach attire on a hot summery day.

All photos by littleharpphotography

I ummed and ahhed over whether to include the pic of me in my swimmers but I have been assured the other girls are doing it (fingers crossed ha). It was the first time I had EVER worn them out in public after they had been sitting in my drawer since being passed on to me from one of my sisters ( I am pretty they both had them before I got them) just waiting to be worn.

Since I have been slack about buying a new pair this season that time finally came and you know what they weren't as bad as what I thought they would be...though it probably helped that I didnt actually go swimming or lift my child whilst I was wearing them..hmm best be off to buy a 'child friendly' pair to be on the safe side.

Check out Dani and Zoe's blogs for their latest installments and please tell me if they haven't included their swimmer shots okay!? : P

Wordless Wednesday: Super Cooper

2011-11-16T07:00:00.000+10:00

Playing along here and here.

Point & Shoot: She's Back!

2011-11-14T07:07:00.000+10:00

Yep Aunty Phoebe is back from her whirlwind European adventure and because I missed her so much convinced my still jet-lagged sister to come over and hang out with us for the day. Luckily for me she said yes and we made the most of the sunshine and headed towards water as it was stinking hot. Phoebe had never been to Shorncliff so I loved the fact that I could show her somewhere new and as far as I could tell she had just as much fun as Cooper... especially at the park.

Before long it was time to head home and drop Phoebe off at the train station as she lives on the ~~dark~~ south side and her car is still with mum until next weekend when we all get to rendezvous in Noosa with all the family and celebrate a wedding of some close family friends. Excited!

Playing along with Lou.

Parks and Friendship

2011-11-13T08:56:00.001+10:00

Earlier in the week I was lucky enough to meet up with a fellow blogger at a park close to both our homes and let the kids go wild. Amy and I have met twice before at Hello Blogger events, but as is the case at those kinds of things we have never really had a chance to sit and talk longer then a few minutes, so it was great to be able to catch up one on one and introduce the boys to each other.

Far from being that awkward weird experience that most people expect it was the opposite and I don't think we stopped talking the entire time we were there. That's the best bit about this whole blogging thing, you already know so much about each other, that comfort level is already there and you have the opportunity to ask questions about things you have read and wondered what eventuated.

Overall it was a great morning out and Cooper and I had a blast and very much look forward to doing it again soon.

Our Week in Instagram

2011-11-12T10:30:00.000+10:00

HPM: Stripes

2011-11-10T12:16:00.000+10:00

The theme this week was stripes.

The only problem I had with this week's theme was choosing what to wear as I have loads (maybe too many) stripes in my closet, in the end I went with this combo as it's was what I wore to the park earlier in the week.

I am most comfortable when I am in shorts and a shirt, especially now as it would seem my super fast metabolism is slowing, and most of my clothing is tighter then usual. Do you ever have those days where as soon as you walk out of the house your clothes instantly feel an inch tighter and shorter? No? Just me...carry on then.

Being in black and white gave me the motivation to finally 'paint' my toenails in skulls and crossbones which my new doctor found very amusing and I will be forever known as the girl with pictures on her toes. Guess it's better then him remembering our first consultation as it was for a pap smear.

Don't forget to head over to Hello Owl & a Boys Mumma to check out their twists on the theme.

City and Beach in One

2011-11-08T12:27:00.003+10:00

After our somewhat failed attempt at being tourists the day before we were up early on Sunday and ready for a great day out in the city, though being up for hours didn't stop us from having to run to make the train in time. It was pretty cool as it was the first time Cooper made the connection that we were actually in a train and kept saying "Toot Toot" to anybody that dared to look in his direction.

We made it and after walking the entire block of Queen St Mall for nothing found the Coffee Club where we were meeting my BFF and her soon to be husband (Yay!). It had been way too long since we had caught up and able to just talk, which we did loads of before we had even ordered, which was about the point the boys took over that.

Thankfully Jim had the insight to stop at a certain fast food place and pick up a hash brown for Coops which meant we didn't hear a peep out of him until we were pretty much ready to go. Oh and I learnt a valuable lesson when being daring ordering coffee, it's best not to make a decision based solely on a picture, and a Vienna is so not for me...in fact I am still trying to scrub the taste out of my mouth. You live and you learn I guess :P

After saying our goodbyes we wandered over the bridge and had a quick stroll through the markets (really need to leave the boys at home one weekend so I can have a decent look) headed over to the lagoon which was packed out by 10.00am. We eventually found a place to park the pram and got Cooper ready for him to of had enough after about a minute.

We walked up a bit further and tried again at the rock pool area but I think he's like me and felt the water was way too cold for his liking. See his pants that's my little trick when I take him places where I know there are lots of people as those fluro green shorts tend to stick out like a sore thumb anywhere.

Do you have any tricks/ tips when taking your children ( or even your partner) out in crowded places?

Point & Shoot: Mount Nebo

2011-11-07T12:30:00.000+10:00

When my husband announced to our son on Friday night that we would be doing something fun the next day I wasn't quite expecting a drive out in the mountains on roads that left no room for error. After what felt like an eternity, but was actually only ten minutes, we arrived at the look out...the look out to what I am still not sure but it was pretty all the same.

Can you tell someone wasn't too impressed with his daddy's idea of fun, or maybe it was just having to get photo's with us, because someone certainly perked right once he had that lens all to himself.

Playing along with Lou at Sunny & Scout.

HPM: Skirt

2011-11-03T10:01:00.000+10:00

Haha terrible photo I know! I used to love wearing skirts but since becoming a mum I stopped wearing them and now only own one, which to be honest I am still not 100% if I like, found shoved in the back of my wardrobe. I find being elastic waisted I have to wear it with a singlet tucked in other wise it kind of goes all 'poofy' (Is that even a word?).

Now just to work on my pasty white legs so I can add a few more skirts to my summer wardrobe.

Don't forget to head over to Zoe and Dani's blog to see their latest posts and remember the more the merrier, so be brave like Amy and come join in on the fun that is HPM.

Wordless Wednesday: Missing Pa

2011-11-02T06:58:00.000+10:00

Playing along here and here.

Movember

2011-11-01T18:35:00.000+10:00

A few weeks ago I was invited to the Movember Launch party in the city and after a few emails it was arranged that Suger and I would go together thus saving me a) having to worry about a how to get there and b) not having to go to my first event alone. Thanks Suger!!

We found the venue and after ~~cruising the block~~ looking for parks we arrived a tad late but in time for the wine and speeches. After an attempt to mingle Suger and I made our way to the back where there were chairs and air- conditioning and then spent the rest of the night chatting about everything and anything.

Whilst not a fan of the facial hair, especially on my husband who I am expected to kiss and snuggle with, I think the whole Movember initiative is wonderful and anything that encourages our men to talk about their feelings is something that I support 100%.

Before long we realized it was time to leave and said our goodbye's to the organizers. After a little confusion we made it back to the car and found our way home much easier then it was finding the car...thankfully.

Thanks to Movember, Nuffnang, and Suger for a great and informative night out.

Cooptober

2011-11-01T12:58:00.003+10:00

1. Being able to use his spork like a big boy, even managing to get and keep those pesky peas he loves so much on. Coop has also decided that everything tastes better dipped in sauce...and I mean everything.

2. There has been a realization that the big boy bed isn't so bad, after all there are toys to be played with and books to be read. But the best bit is being able to come and go as he likes during the early morning when he gets up and is the only one in the house awake.

3. Becoming more daring and trying to be like his Poppy by riding anything that kind of resembles (or not) a horse, even if that means climbing the table to get to it.

4. Being reacquainted with all of his toys that had been packed away for months and falling in love with them all over again. I was pretty chuffed when he came out with the tool belt I had made for him and had always refused to wear. Is he not the cutest tradesman you have ever seen? ( I could be biased)

5. Another day, another park, another adventure.

6. Finally unpacking the craft boxes and having it all set up so it's easily accessible, making it a breeze to whip something out for him to do. Coop's favourite craft activities at the moment are play-dough, collaging (though more so the gluing part), and drawing with pencils.

7. Nearly getting left at Toys R Us after refusing to come out of the cubby house. That was after having to pry him out of the bright pink Barbie Jeep that was still on the shelf. The kid sat in it for at least half an hour whilst I browsed the isles around him ( don't stress dad was there too).

8. We also managed a little quiet time just hanging out playing and chatting waiting for daddy to come home from work. I love that I am beginning to understand more and more of what Cooper is going on about now.

9. Exploring and trying out new foods. Is it bad that when we say 'Chermy' (the shopping centre) he actually jumps, claps, and makes his little biting action with his mouth? Cooper's newest favourite is Breadtop. Mmm!!

Point & Shoot: Parklife

2011-10-31T07:32:00.002+10:00

We had a quiet and pretty uneventful weekend, it was nice no plans and nowhere we had to be, the weather wasn't the best but when we could we did go out exploring some of the parks and attractions around where we are living.

Cooper has started this new thing of a morning where he will go to the front door and point to the car keys and say 'Come On' if his request is denied he will go to phase 2 of 'I'm Booored' until it looks like we are getting ready to go out. If we are not quick enough he will find our shoes and try to put them on for us all the while demanding 'Hurry Up'.

Playing along with Lou.

HPM: White Tee

2011-10-27T09:18:00.002+10:00

The challenge for the week was a basic white t-shirt and after a look through my wardrobe I realised that thanks to my very bad habit of spilling food/ drinks/ toothpaste/ etc I have none that are acceptable to leave the house in. So after disguising a trip to Rivers with some 'exercise' one evening I was able to pick up this shirt for around $9.00.

Whilst I can't do white all the time I do love how fresh it looks and how easily you can dress it up or down with a just few basic accessories.

On this particular day we were off to the park so the hat, which I scored off Uncle Pap after declaring to the household "I really want one of those hats...just putting it out there...." was great for blocking out the sun. The necklace was a bargain I found at Lifeline earlier in the week for $2.00, and my Rip Curl watch I got online for $50 (60% off sale) when Cooper was born. Oh yes and my Havaianas, again.

As you can see I am no model and I am in desperate need for my sister to return from overseas, not only because I miss her but I also really need to borrow her camera, as I am pretty sure the crappy picture quality and sounds coming out of mine mean it's about to cark it.

Don't forget to head over and check out Zoe and Dani's twists on the theme and while you are at it why not come and join in on the fun.

Our First Month Here

2011-10-25T13:19:00.000+10:00

1. Having the family come and stay was great! Hoping I have convinced them all to have Christmas here.
2. Taking them to our favorite place was just as good. All relaxing as a family.
3. Getting to hang out with my super cool nephew. Saying good bye was tough.
4. Dropping lil sis at the airport and being saved from tormenting Instagram pics after she lost her phone.
5. Exploring the new neighborhood. Miraculously we live within walking distance of a pub.
6. Experiencing a freak hail storm with hail the size of golf balls.
7. Walking, with an occasional jog, trying to burn off all this never before eaten take away.
8. Compensating by cooking just as delicious food at home.
9. It would seem I am a little out of practice with the whole clean as I go. I blame it on only having one sink.

And now here are five (because I couldn't think of nine) things that I wish I had taken a photo of this month:

1. Opening the door one night after hearing banging coming from Cooper's room to find him riding around in the dark on his plastic trike that he had stashed before being put to bed. He then proceeded to ride out in to the kitchen, smirking, yelling "WHEEE" as he went past.

2. Me stuffing my face with the best rocky road slice made by SIL and leaving none for anybody, twice!

3. The husband and his ~~other wife~~ mate scrubbing the outside walls with teeny tiny dishcloths.

4. The result of a cleaning frenzy and an old window. Yep not a month in and I am already damaging the place, lucky I have a really great and understanding landlord. I also saved an argument with the husband for having enough sense to drop it away from the car...just.

5. Waking up during the night and not being able to find Coops only to find him fast asleep under the bed.

Hot Park Mums: Spring Edition

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000+10:00

Hot Park Mum's is a fun new fashion challenge set out to push the boundaries of the every day "mummy wardrobe" and give three best friends Zoe, Hayley and Danielle a reason to spice up their every day fashion choices by diving into their wardrobe {or the shops} and finding a few hidden gems along the way. Each week they will be given a theme and then go off and perform their very own Hot Park Mum's photo shoot returning to their blogs every Thursday to show you what they have come up with during the week. When Dani first told me about HPM I was excited about the idea but then it dawned on me I had no idea about fashion. In fact when I told my sisters they laughed and laughed some more not at the concept but because out of all of us (including my younger teen sisters) I have the least knowledge about trends and what's fashionable...I still rely on my sisters to do my make up after all.
But then I stopped being silly and realized its not about being fashionable its about having fun and one good thing about getting older is that I am finally beginning to find a style that I am comfortable in. Right now that style includes simple (preferably with stripes) v- necks, denim shorts, and my trusty Havaiana thongs.

Now it's your turn to take some pics and play along with us. Remember to check out Zoe and Dani's latest post and the HPM flickr account to see all the photos that haven't made the cut.

WW: CJ Cool

2011-10-19T21:51:00.003+10:00

Playing along over here and here.

Deep Breath & Reflect

2011-10-18T13:10:00.000+10:00

Finally a moment to catch my breath and reflect if only for a few minutes as I fear that Cooper's nap time is nearly up and now that he's in a big boy bed when he's up, hes up, and I no longer get those few extra minutes like I used too.

That's the thing I have been so busy doing all those not so fun things on the computer that comes with moving that when I am ready to blog other things are needed to be done (namely unpacking the last of the boxes so I stop getting whinged to about where the bloody HDMI cord is?!) and then a day quickly becomes a week with no post and before I know it I will have my sisters ~~texting~~ whatsapp'in me demanding their Cooper fix .

Anyway I just wanted to pop in and say that I am back especially now I have finally gotten around to unpacking and setting up my office...so really I have no excuse to take you all on a tour of our new digs. And to say thank you for all the lovely comments, I have finally gotten around to setting up my email on the computer so fingers crossed I will actually be able to respond in writing...instead of just in my head.

I know no Cooper fix what a crappy sister..tomorrow I promise xx

HPM

2011-10-13T23:24:00.000+10:00

To kick off the challenge the first week's theme will be: Spring so make sure you come back next week to check it out because we all love attention and feel free to come play along too. The more the merrier.

Wordless Wednesday: Best Friends??

2011-10-12T09:20:00.000+10:00

Playing along over here.

Just a quick post

2011-10-12T09:09:00.001+10:00

I finally found my lap top charger and am choosing to ignore all of the things that I should be doing and instead plonking my butt on my couch for the first time in six months and trying to catch up on all things computer related.

The move is going well and I very much feel like it was the right thing to do...especially so on Monday when Jim had to leave for training and Coop absolutely lost his shit as he thought daddy was going away again and then the way Cooper's face lit up when daddy walked in the door that afternoon...priceless!

I was lucky enough to have my whole family come and visit over the weekend and it was nice to all be hanging out especially because the next day we had to drop the 'baby' sister off at the airport for her overseas adventure. Not even a week in to her holiday she managed to lose her phone...which is totally a Phoebe thing to do...guess that's one way to get out of checking in with your sisters.

I am so fortunate to have really, really great mates! Not many people would give up their child free day to help someone move or feel like doing much of anything after a 16 hour road trip with 3 kids, but they did, along with my favorite SIL, and they helped me accomplish the impossible and I am so very grateful to have people like that in my life!

Once again thanks and I totally still owe you all a shout at Haniachi (that includes you Ange!)

All under the one roof

2011-10-05T09:50:00.001+10:00

Well it finally happened we MOVED and are all back together under the same roof as a family and it feels good. Not only are we all back together but Jim has the week at home so we have been making the most of it by doing as much as we can before the 'holiday' is over.

Cooper is loving life, though he is very much missing his 'Rollypop' and keeps asking for him and 'Jabber', but he has taken on the new surroundings really well and has been keeping busy exploring this massive house.

Its good he is entertained because, besides the crap I managed to squeeze in to my sedan, the rest of our belongings doesn't arrive until next Monday. Which is all cool as we have stuff here we can use, though I am really wishing I had packed more then one pair of long pants and a jumper as its been a little chilly. I did however pack my sewing machine..though nothing to use with it.

I will be back but right now I better finish my assigment before Jim and Cooper come home from the park and catch me not doing what I was supposed to be doing.

Happy Hump Day- how the heck is it Wednesday already??

Wordless Wednesday: Higher Pa!

2011-09-28T09:13:00.000+10:00

Playing along with Faith Hope & a whole lotta Love.

Nearly Two is Hard Enough

2011-09-27T10:31:00.000+10:00

I was going to write a belated Point & Shoot post but for some reason none of my photos wanted to upload and then blogger didn't want to publish or save and after trying for over an hour I have given up on that idea.

Instead I am going to whinge that the child is sick again and the poor little sod has had just about enough of feeling like crap and having a sore mouth to what I am suspecting are his two year old molars coming though. Not helping is that the new teeth keep getting in the way and as a result we have had a few tongue biting incidents.

Cooper is also very much experiencing some two year old frustrations and we have had a couple of complete melt downs, including this morning he decided he didn't want to get dressed and totally lost the plot screaming "I DON'T WANT TO" over and over ( I will admit I had to turn away and have a giggle as it really was are funny sight) and yet two minutes later he came trotting down the stairs happily with a nappy and jocks over the top thanks to his Aunty Tiff.

Chucking tantrums at 7.00 am must be hard work as the little man passed out on his beanbag at about 9.00am and is still fast asleep.

The Suitcase Boy

2011-09-23T13:14:00.005+10:00

Some days it feels as if the moment I finish unpacking our bags its time to repack them and do it all again. I am not a fan of packing, though I hate unpacking even more as it usually involves a days worth of washing. It doesn't help that I am an over packer and even when I am trying to pack light I spend the last minutes before leaving throwing extra crap that I think I need but never end up using whilst I am away.

Cooper however thinks the packing thing is the best.thing.ever especially if it involves spending the weekend with daddy. In fact he is usually so keen he likes to 'help' by emptying entire drawers worth of clothing in to his bag and anything else he can get his hands on..hmm wonder where he gets that from?

Are you able to pack light, or are you like me and tend to be an over packer?

Blog Meet: Things I learnt

2011-09-22T13:22:00.000+10:00

I learnt that five bloggers walking to the train station can talk, a little loud, and laugh even louder which may cause the neighbours to glance out their windows to see what all the noise is about. I also learnt that carrying my brooches around in my handbag pays off.

I learnt raiding your son's money box for change instantly makes you friends..though they may take a few steps back when you pay for a whole ticket using 20 cent pieces. Also if you can hear the train approaching there's no point running up the fifty stairs as there is no way you will make the train in time.

I have learnt as daunting as the thought is of having to walk in to a room with people you have never met, once you have done it you realise it wasn't that bad and the people you meet, the conversations you have, and the relationships you form totally make up for it all. Believe me it does get easier though that feeling at the end of the night when you wish you had spoken more with somebody never seems to change.

I have learnt that by attending these meets you are given a rare opportunity to meet people you perhaps wouldn't otherwise get to meet. Sometimes you have lots in common and other times you don't but none the less you get along, enjoy each others company and genuinely care about them.

I have learnt if you are really lucky and put in the groundwork you meet a bunch of wonderful girls that 'get you' and when you are all together know how to have a rocking good time.

Front Row (L-R) Ben, Amy, Dani, Zoe, Me, Sheri.

Middle Row (L-R) Deb, Kate, Olivia, Danielle, Lisa, Amy, Suger

Back Row (L-R) Lisa, Talia.

I have learnt that group shots are lots of fun but when you mix them with a few cocktails they can turn bad really, really quickly.

Lastly I have learnt I am terrible at linking photos so a big thanks to Talia, Suger, and Olivia for letting me 'steal' their snaps from the night.

Wednesday Already

2011-09-21T13:38:00.000+10:00

How did it get to be Wednesday? It feels like the weekend was only yesterday but yet here we are on hump day! We had a jam packed couple of days in Brisbane which included a little bit of everything.

There was time spent with my sister in law and niece at one my most favourite places in Brissy as we watched them throw a line in whilst trying to spot the elusive dolphins that everyone but me seemed to be able to see. I can't wait for it to get a little bit warmer so we can venture in to the water and go swimming...as long at they were dolphins they were seeing.

There was time spent at the park with two of my favourite people and our gang of kidlets. I love how even though the kids are all different ages they get along really well and have a blast together. And can I just say older kids rock (well when they are being mini-mums and I don't have to take them home) .

There was plenty of time for these two to have their bonding time which of course included numerous trips to the park and shops. Funniest sight of the weekend was Cooper walking around Kmart with his $2.50 jocks thinking he was too cool for school. Not so funny was the squealing tanty he pulled outside the lolly shop which resulted in ~~sucker~~ daddy buying a handful of overpriced lollies.

Then there was of course the thing I had being waiting for (besides hanging out with the husband of course) the Hello Blogger meet up at Garuva and everything about the night did not disappointed. After a few stressful weeks it was so nice to let my hair down with great friends, meet a few new ones, and find some really cool places along the way.

Full wrap up of the event tomorrow.

Wordless Wednesday: Time to Bond

2011-09-21T08:58:00.000+10:00

Playing along over here.

Just Another Day At The Park

2011-09-13T13:46:00.001+10:00

As our time comes to an end here I have been trying to make the most of it by soaking up friends, family and even places before we leave. Last week we braved the threatening storm to meet up with Cooper's old swimming buddy Khan and his mum Tarryn at our old park that has recently been revamped.

As bad as it sounds Tarryn and I kind of forgot about each other and haven't seen or spoken in months which is really a shame as we are so much a like and the boys have always loved hanging out. They were only born a few days apart so it's nice for Cooper to have someone his own age to interact with...even if he does try to teach Khan a few bad habits along the way.

A visit to the park isn't complete without a drunk homeless man yelling obscenities across the park, Cooper taking off across the park (once man had left) with a little girl's pair of shoes and said little girl chasing after him screaming "GIVE BACK MY SHOES", and a major meltdown when the shoes were returned.

Oh fun times that I wouldn't change, well except for the obscenities and tantrums of course.

Point & Shoot: Skater Boi

2011-09-12T09:24:00.001+10:00

Cooper was thrilled when he woke up on Saturday morning and found his daddy in bed after deciding last minute to come back for the weekend. We had plans to go to Tinninbar but thanks to the icy winds and drop of temperature decided to give it a miss and instead spent it at home enjoying each others company.

Since Cooper was a little bub Jim has taken him on the skateboard and now that Coop is older he loves holding on to his dad's leg while they cruise around. Thankfully Coop inherited his dad's balance and not mine, something Coop has picked up on as he refuses to get on it with me, and it very much is 'their thing'.

Which is cool by me as long as that includes dealing with all the lost teeth, blood, and trips to the hospital.

Playing along with Sunny & Scout.

Lessons In Friendship

2011-09-08T07:01:00.000+10:00

I have learnt that though people may come and go the ones that are meant to stay in your life will always come back, no matter the time and distance, and really will be your friend forever.

It can be like 'old times'...even if you havent properly spoken in years.

That sometimes a little good can come from the saddest of times.

There are people out there that love me; flaws, bitchiness and all.

I have a great support system that consists of the most wonderful, caring, and loving friends and family.

Realising and appreciating above network can do wonders for one's self confidence and well-being.

That no matter how 'busy' I am there I should always make the time for those I care about.

I am really lucky, really really lucky! And thanks to all of you lovely people for sticking around, you know I appreciate it...right?

Wordless Wednesday: Wild Child

2011-09-07T07:15:00.000+10:00

Playing along with Faith Hope & a whole lotta Love.

Rag Quilt...and NO I don't have any news to share!

2011-09-06T07:16:00.000+10:00

I was going through my material and found some flannel that I had left over from a project I made at the start of the year and thought it would be perfect to make in to a rag quilt. I have the same prints in blues and yellows but decided to make a more girly one first as I was a little bored with boyish colours...though in saying that I have already started to cut the material for a matching boys one.

I really enjoyed the process of making a rag quilt, maybe a little more then regular patchwork, as there is way more room for error and any inconsistency go unnoticed ...plus there is no binding which made it a super quick project that I was able to finish whilst sitting on the lounge getting my weekly fix of Housewives of NJ.

If you have ever wanted to give quilting ago but have been hesitant I would suggest having a look at ragging it as the end results are just as good as normal quilting but with way less stress. A warning it can become a little addictive and with that I am off to finish cutting squares for the next one as I am aiming to have it completed in the next few days as my sewing machine has to go back to the shop and who knows how long that will take.

*Edit* With the left over material I decided to make a little cushion to go with it ( it hasn't been washed in this photo as you can probably see).

Point & Shoot: Daddy Day

2011-09-05T11:10:00.000+10:00

Father's Day was really low key this year, as in I totally dropped the ball and all hubby got was a crappy card that was made with a whole lotta love. BUT we did get to spend it together, alone as a family, which is something we haven't done is nearly six months.

We mostly spend the weekend relaxing at home but did get out for an afternoon walk and I am a little ashamed to say that five minutes up the road we found a paddock with three friendly horses and pond full of ducks which Cooper thought was awesome so I must be making the effort to take him again soon.

The best part was that hubby decided to stay an extra night and went home this morning so now it's only 11 more sleeps to go.

Pointing & Shooting with Lou.

Fruit Salad

2011-09-03T07:18:00.000+10:00

With most of our stuff in storage, including three quarters of Cooper's toys and all of my childcare resources, some days I struggle to come up with exciting activities that will keep them all amused and happy. Yesterday was one of those days and by 10.00 they were walking around the house bored which always leads to bickering and fights so I sat them at the table and we all made a fruit salad.

I used to love cooking with the toddlers at the centre and even with twelve kids under 2 it was always a lot of fun, so I was looking forward to doing it with the Cooper and the other two. It never ceases to amaze me how kids who flat out refuse to eat a certain piece of fruit on its own will happily munch it down when it's in fruit salad.

It was hilarious watching Cooper trying to eat rockmelon, he clearly detested the taste so much he would shudder when he took a bite, but continued to eat it because A & W were, it was a little bit like peer pressure..but in a good way. The best bit about it was by putting in a passionfruit it stayed fresh for 3-4 days and was delicious as an after dinner snack with yoghurt.

Family Time Is Bliss

2011-09-02T07:07:00.000+10:00

Family time has been hard to come by the last couple of months so when we do get it we try to make the most of it. The last time Coops and I were down visiting Jim we caught up with my sister and explored South bank and the city. Cooper loves the hustle and bustle of city life, which is funny as Jim and I have always been the opposite, until now of course.

It was great having my sister there ~~and to use her camera~~ to chase after Cooper and showing us some of her favourite places including Max Brenner though cruelly we didn't go in but I will definitely being making sure I go next time. No outing is complete with the mandatory 'uh-oh' moment but at least this time it didn't result in blood and we got away with just a few tears.

Cooper had a great time running around trying to push his boundaries and seeing how far away he could get before being called back; then he would either listen or bolt in the other direction! After a quick wander around the markets, because that is one thing he does share with his father and that is their dislike for markets, it was time for lunch where Coops devoured a whole corn on a cob.

Before heading home we stripped Cooper down to his boardies and let him go off with the other crazy kids and play in the freezing cold water. He's a bit of wuss like his mum when it comes to the cold and preferred to chill out on the waters edge which is lucky as I hadn't packed a towel or any spare clothes that day. It was a great place for a family outing and I can't wait to revisit...preferably when it's about 10 degrees warmer.

Good Neighbours Are Hard To Find

2011-09-01T12:53:00.002+10:00

Which is why I am so lucky to of had a neighbour like Deb!

I miss Deb the most when I think about our old place and our daily chit chat's (okay and maybe just a little gossiping) and the friendship that blossomed over the five or so years we were neighbours. In those years she saw us engaged, married, pregnant and then became like a second grandma to Cooper.

We have seen each other experience the highest of highs and lowest of lows and even though we may never be neighbours again I know she will continue to be very much apart of our lives...no matter the distance.

There are lots of things I love about Deb but the the thing that stands out the most is how she would come and bundle Coops up in the pram and take him for walks around the park or around town. Some of these times were when she could tell I was stressed and needed a break (we did after all share the same wall) but mostly it was because she loved spending time with him and it was their special thing.

Cooper loves her, always has and always will, which is nice becuase you can never too much love. Meeting Deb and saying hello was the best thing I ever did and we feel really lucky to have her in our lives.

Do you know your neighbours? Are they friendly or do you have one of those neighbours? I would love to know.

Sewing For The Soul

2011-08-30T12:10:00.000+10:00

Last week before it happened I was already having a shocker of a week, why? No idea just one of those ones where everything is sucky and no matter how hard you try to change your frame of mind it just doesn't happen. I haven't had one of those kind of days in a while and considering everything that has happened the last few months I found that odd but then realized I actually have but I think I have found my secret to beating those funk moods.

I lock myself in the craft room and sew. I really do find it therapeutic to be able to be left with my thoughts and I don't know why but that feeling of creating something always makes me feel better and usually I leave the room feeling ten times lighter and a way nicer person.

On this particular day I had the desire to make a quilt and because I had no interest in leaving the house I had to make do with the material I already had. Once again it's not perfect but considering it only took me two days I am pretty happy with how it turned out.

Head over to my facebook page to see some of my other creations.

Point & Shoot: Mmm Doughnut!

2011-08-29T12:06:00.000+10:00

After a really sad and crappy week it was so good to have hubby home over the weekend and I am sure Cooper would agree. The last couple of weeks Coop has been becoming more aware of what is going on, especially on a Sunday when Jim gets ready to leave, and he often walks around the house saying 'daddy work'. Cooper may of been a tad more excited this time as daddy brought him a very special gift...

His very first Krispy Kreme doughnut and as you can tell it was love at first bite...though sadly for him they will always be a very special treat.

Playing along over at Sunny & Scout.

Dark Days Ahead

2011-08-25T14:03:00.000+10:00

I have been sitting here looking at a blank screen for most of nap time and with only a few minutes left before they wake I really need to actually write something for it to be productive. I had all good intentions to cross a million things off my to do list, including blogging, but something happened in our small town community the night before last that has shocked and devastated everybody to some extent.

I weighed up how much I would go in to detail but really at the end of the day its not my story to tell and feel its best to leave it at this (for now anyway), I guess a kind of private reminder of the absolute tragedy that occurred and to remind myself that sometimes I have bad days it doesn't mean I have a bad life and to cherish what I do have.

And with that I can hear noises and movement coming from upstairs which means my time is up.

Point & Shoot: Budding Designer

2011-08-22T10:43:00.001+10:00

This weekend I was determined to reacquaint myself with my sewing machine and complete all of the unfinished projects that were laying around so I could start on a new idea that I am hoping to post about a little later today (so probably tomorrow). Whilst Cooper detests any kind of fabric shop he enjoys being around me when I am sewing, though he loves it even more when I am standing as it gives him the perfect opportunity to steal my seat and do some 'sewing' of his own.

Playing along with Lou.

Cousins Are The Bombdigity

2011-08-18T06:50:00.001+10:00

As Cooper and his cousin Jasper get older their relationship is developing and now they are mates who love to hang out together. They follow each other around constantly and like most kids their age love to have what each other has which at times cause fights but lately they have been sorting it out themselves.

Being boys their most favourite activity would have to be getting in to mischief...their latest thing is pulling the cushions of the sofa bed and using it as a trampoline. Though their most favourite thing to do together is...

Wrestle

Point & Shoot: Slide

2011-08-14T20:22:00.001+10:00

It has been a few weeks since Cooper and I have been to Brisbane to visit hubby so we made sure we crammed in as much as we could this weekend. There were visits to the park to see some fantastic friends and a chance for cousins to play on the beach in the sunshine.

On Sunday we spent the day enjoying the sights of Southbank and the City with my sister as our guide. The plan was to sit down to eat but I didn't make it pass the markets having myself some churros with whipped cream and chocolate and a lamb yiros (in that order) while Cooper happily munched on a corn cob.

Sadly it's time to drive home tomorrow and get back to the normality, though I have a few craft ideas I really want to start so it's not all bad.

Playing along at Sunny & Scout.

The post that wasn't

2011-08-13T13:45:00.004+10:00

I sat down excited to share the gorgeous photos I captured of Suger and Cooper sharing a moment over a chocolate muffin whilst stopping in at Gympie yesterday...but sadly some moron aka me decided to clear the memory card of photos already saved on the computer and had a complete brain failure and deleted all of them!

I am kicking myself and am finding it's one of those times that whilst the advances of technology are brilliant there are some times disadvantages to it too. So instead of a post about how awesome Liss is and how nice it was to sit down and have a lengthy chat about all things blogging and life in general; you are getting this ~~whinge~~ post because I figure that whilst the actual photos may not exist anymore in the years to come when reading back on this it will help to recall the photos I captured without the use of a camera.

Oh and the above photo has nothing to do with anything I have just written but I thought it was too cute a photo of my handsome bogan husband not to share it.

Future Telemarketer???

2011-08-11T05:16:00.000+10:00

After my post a few weeks ago about Cooper and my concerns over his lack of interest in talking he has come full circle and blown me away not only words but actual 2 & 3 word sentences. He's favourite sentences right now would have to be 'Rolly work' and he loves nothing more then chatting with his daddy and telling him about his day.

I love how, even when on the cordless, he insists on going to the bottom stair and making himself comfy. Though he still forgets that dad can't actually see him and does lots of nodding and pointing when answering a question :)

With the all the new words there is one that I am not too impressed about and know it's not what you might think, it's Hayley! For the last week when he wants me he walks around shouting "AYLY" "AYLY". He knows it slightly irritates me and usually has one of those cheeky grins demonstrated above when I tell him that my name is MUM. I know it's because that's what he hears and I am trying to make a conscious effort to start calling my mum Noni as the other night Coops called her "Mum" by mistake.

He's growing up way too fast!

Wordless Wednesday: Tickle Monster

2011-08-10T06:51:00.001+10:00

Playing along at Faith Hope & a whole lotta Love.

Point & Shoot: Aunty Phoebe

2011-08-08T14:12:00.000+10:00

Over the weekend whilst my hubby was stuck in Brisbane watching the footy in a corporate box Cooper and I spent the weekend recovering from a crazy week by chilling out at home. My little sis decided to come home for the weekend and was greeted with lots of cuddles from her two favourite nephews.

The best bit about having her home besides just getting to hang out with her of course is a) mum always puts on a good feed for her, and b) she has this really cool camera that I secretly pretend is mine and use whenever I can.

Magically Phoebe forgot to take it home with her...I may of been in charge of packing it up, but I swear it was right next to her bags...and so for the next week until I get to Brissy I have a new toy to play with.

Playing along over at Sunny & Scout.

One Step At A Time

2011-08-04T06:47:00.000+10:00

The last few months have been hard in so many areas but finally this week it feels like things are slowly falling in to place and the end result is so close I can almost feel it. Sometimes it's not until you look back you realize how stressed you were and for me I am starting to see how much my self confidence and thus belief in myself had dropped especially these last few weeks.

Thankfully a combination of things has seen me see the light and reaffirm to myself that I am worth it and do have something to offer people that isn't solely based around caring for children and that I am capable of learning new skills.

Suddenly not only my future, but my families future looks a little brighter and all of this will be worth it when we are all together again as family.

Point & Shoot: Fail

2011-08-01T14:02:00.008+10:00

I got up this morning turned on the computer and was ready to do a quick Point & Shoot post and realized that I hadn't taken one single photo all weekend.

I attempted to take a selfie of my outfit with one of my awesome brooches after my shower; but failed to see the layer of dust on the mirror and couldn't use that one.

I tried to take a picture of Cooper but he was far too playing outside and didn't want a bar of it; by then my morning had disappeared and I was due in the office for the afternoon.

It would be cheating to take a picture this late in the ~~day~~ night so instead I am going cheat by using these that were taken a few weekends ago of me and my gorgeous sisters on our shopping trip to the Bay as they bring a smile to my face.

Playing along over here with Lou.

The Transition Is Starting

2011-07-29T02:50:00.000+10:00

This week saw me spending a few hours everyday in the office trying to do my mum's job as best as I can whislt she is away. So far so good, wages went in on Wednesday and I haven't had any of the boys complain about not getting paid, that was the part I was stressing about the most.

My first day was Tuesday afternoon as the boss had an operation in Brisbane and thankfully my sister's best friend was able to help me out last minute and look after Cooper 11-4.30. Considering Cooper and I are practically joined at the hip I wasn't too sure how he would go especially as he wasnted 100%. I should never of worried as he had a great time and apparently made one sound the whole time he was there...and it was a giggle. The next day my good friend looked after him 10-2 and once again he was an angel.

Yesterday and today I have the kids so I go in when they are all asleep for an hour as it's right next door (and have the baby monitors set up) and will take Cooper in there with me this afternoon when they go home...which will be fun I am sure.

Overall we both have enjoyed this week and I look forward to doing it again next week. Wonder if I would be lucky enough to score another job where I get to start at 11 ;)

Wordless Wednesday: Friends Forever

2011-07-27T15:55:00.003+10:00

Playing along over here

Birthday Blogger

2011-07-26T15:43:00.002+10:00

As I have gotten older I have learnt not to get my hopes up about my birthday as whenever I do the day never quite lives up to my expectations, but this year with hubby organizing a birthday dinner and the fact that I was going to spend the afternoon with a bunch of great people saw me wake up in a great mood. This great mood only increased when Cooper decided to give the gift of sleeping until 8.45am! My beautiful lil sister then came over and made me over as only she knows how and I was all set for the Hello Blogger Events meet at Chermside.

Group Shot: Kirsty, Kelvin, Suger, Sheri, Me, Alison, Zoe, Ben and Dani.

I was really looking forward to catching up with people that have become some of my closest friends as well as the opportunity to meet some new faces. I love coming to these blog meets as it always feels so relaxed and usually within minutes everybody are off in their own conversations completely forgetting how awkward they were feeling a few minutes before.

I also love that I am able to experience cuisine that I normally wouldn't try as we all know what a a sheltered life I live when it come to food, once again Dani didn't disappoint with her choice of Wagamama, though my dish closely resembled what I get at Hanaichi...baby steps! Lucky Sheri and everybody else was a little more daring and I was able to check out a few things that I may just try next time.

After a feed, some laughs, blogging talk, and more laughs it was time to part ways for another meet. Thanks to my hubby being a wuss and only lasting an hour 'shopping' I had to bum a ride with Zoe, which wasn't too bad as I was able to grill her for all the goss...about her owls of course.

Really was a great day...here's hoping next year's is just as good!

Just Call Me Little Miss Piggy

2011-07-25T14:47:00.001+10:00

Over the weekend Cooper and I took the drive to Brisbane to spend my birthday weekend with Jim and spend some family time together. I decided to leave early Friday morning so I was able to catch up with Liss on my way through, Cooper didn't agree with this time change and spent 45 mins screaming which was also the stretch that the radio drops out and the CD I had prepared didn't work in the car...fun times. Lucky for me Suger was armed with coffee and after a chat and some cranky toddler wrangling it was time to hit the road with enough time to see Jim before he left for work.

On Saturday we were up early to pick my mum up from the airport and take her out for a coffee, we had time to spare so we introduced Cooper to a baby cappuccino which he loved minus the marshmallows. Before long it was time to drop mum off at the port for her to start her adventure.

Yep at this very moment she is probably sipping cocktails at one of the pools on deck, I contemplated whether I would fit in her suitcase but sadly I get my packing habits from her and there wasn't even enough room to fit Cooper (kidding). My sisters and I are all freaking out about the fact that we have no contact with her for the next fourteen days and can't remind her to take a few photos.

Hubby had organised dinner reservations earlier in the week which I was so excited about as it was at Hogs Breath which I haven't had since our honeymoon two years ago. It was such a lovely night out (minus the fifteen minute tantrum from a certain little boy) and we all left absolutely stuffed! We decided to get a maxi taxi as there were a few of us and Cooper nearly pooped his pants when he got to sit like a big boy whilst it was moving..love how it's the simplest things that make him happy.

Overall it was a lovely day and the best was yet to come...my birthday!

Point & Shoot: Cake Heaven

2011-07-18T06:40:00.000+10:00

I had been looking forward to Saturday all week as it was the day that my cousin was bringing around one of her scrummy cakes for us to try. I have had this cake before, I think for my Gran's birthday, so I knew it was going to be good! It was half birthday cake, half celebration cake for Pa and his health (though just don't tell him that).

I learnt a valuable lesson when inviting Pa over and that is his lunch time and my lunchtime are a little different (like an hour) which saw him arriving and us just starting to prepare. Luckily it wasn't anything fancy and didn't take us long to whip up some curried prawns and rice and cook up the last of the whiting, which Cooper ate nearly a third of much to Pa's delight. I am pretty sure Pa had a good time and best of all we got him home just in time for the footy.

Okay now back to the cake...It was a coconut cream cake with toasted Swiss meringue, and had a custardy cream that made the cake layers really moist like a mud cake. I can't describe how yummy this way but the fact there is none left may tell you how good it was...or the fact that my jeans became skinny ones overnight!

Playing along at Sunny & Scout.

Hey There Big Boy

2011-07-14T08:58:00.002+10:00

I haven't written a post solely about Cooper in a while and because I know hubby is missing him like crazy and occasionally reads this blog I thought I would write a few things down as I have a bad case of forgetting.

Cooper is nearly eighteen months and is a pretty happy and confident toddler.
Except for when he's throwing a tanty, which are usually over him not getting what he wants.
When throwing said tanty's it involves a repetitive loud shriek and if we are really lucky he does the odd slap over the head/ face.
Because of this he has become familiar with the 'naughty step'.
The kid LOVES smoked mussels (thanks to Rollypop for introducing him to that..no really thanks).
Actually the kid will eat basically anything if given enough tries at it.

He has an obsession with shoes, his shoes, my shoes, Jim's shoes, even my sister's six inch heel get a go. The problem to this is that you can never find your shoes when you need them.
Cooper also has a thing with necklaces, especially a tacky green beaded thing out of the dress ups that he wears around with such pride.
The kid enjoys being outside night or day especially now he has a whole backyard to roam around in.
He also loves technology! Phones, cameras, computers you name it the kid is obsessed. So much so I am seriously considering buying him a second hand ipod touch for Christmas just for some peace. (Honestly I think he would get way more enjoyment out of then another ~~piece of junk~~ toy)
Whilst he mumbles and jibbers a lot there are not as many words as I would like, though he does say quite a few. I think it's a little bit of laziness as I know he can say the word but he tries to get away with grunting.
Cooper loves to cuddle and sadly for the cats they are not immune from this special treat.

After all those months of not sleeping Cooper has decided that the whole sleep thing is in fact pretty good, and after saying nighty night to Hoot he is usually more then happy to be tucked in to bed..after he switches off his light switch which usually involves him cackling widely because he's touching a switch.
Of a morning (usually between 6-7) I put him in bed with me and if I am lucky and let him sleep laying on top of me, he will go back off for another thirty minutes..which is used productively on my phone.
He's a groover all right, though thanks to his Uncle Pappy if it ain't got no duf duf then its not dancing material.
He has just started to pretend snore when you lay him down or talk about sleeping. Its pretty darn cute and a mystery to me where he picked it up from..unless that's his way of telling me I snore?
He is way better behaved for other people then what he is for me...but that's ok I would rather it that way around.
I love him to the moon and back and wouldn't change anything about him. I am so very lucky he choose us to be his parents and I couldn't imagine life without him.

Wordless Wednesday: The Call

2011-07-13T08:41:00.001+10:00

Playing along over here.

Ice Ice Baby

2011-07-12T01:48:00.000+10:00

I recently found my camera's memory card that hadn't been seen since the weekend of Ma's funeral and whilst there were lots of sad photos there were these which instantly brought a smile to my face...

I am pretty sure this was Cooper's first experience eating an ice block and by the looks of it he wasn't too sure about it. I can't believe these photos were taken two months ago as it feels like Ma has been gone a lot longer then that.

I went to see my Pa over the weekend and he admitted that he was lonely and even shed a few silent tears when talking about how quiet it was and how Ma's not there to give him orders. My Pa is one of the strongest men I know so to see him sad broke my heart.

My aim this week is to be pro-active about making him feel needed and loved (which he so is), and remembering that his asbestos results come back tomorrow and I must find out the truth about what is going on and not the sugar coated version.

As for me I miss her terribly, especially this month with all of our birthday's happening, though Ma would be proud that Pa is continuing on with those early morning phone calls and so far hasn't forgotten any one :)

It's probably really lame but I can't face going in to Lifeline just yet...I tried the other day and got as far as the steps before turning around. I'm not really sure what it is I think its a combination of how the staff will react and the fact that for my whole life my Ma ran that place like a well oiled machine, I guess it just feels wrong that she isn't there.

I know it's silly and with time I will get over it...luckily for me there are plenty of other op-shops to browse in the meantime.

So this post ended up nothing like I thought it would but it feels good to write what is going around in my head.

Point & Shoot: Birthday Lunch

2011-07-11T01:55:00.000+10:00

Out of all the months of the year July is my favourite (minus the cold factor) as there is three of us siblings that celebrate our birthday. This year is extra special as my 'baby' brother is turning eighteen (today) and in a few weeks I will officially be on the other side of twenty...arghh!

For the weekend my sister surprised my other sister and I by secretly organising a trip back home so we could all go out and have a girls day down the bay. Jim was home so this equaled a child free day for me which allowed us to have a leisurely lunch which may of involved cocktails followed by an afternoon filled with clothes shopping..though hands down my mum and sisters are definitely the shoppers of the family.

Overall it was a lovely weekend that once again went way too quickly!

Playing along with Lou at Sunny & Scout.

Tribe For A Day

2011-07-07T12:11:00.000+10:00

In my last post I wrote about how I am looking forward to a change I didn't really talk about the kids I look after and how much I am going to miss them when I do leave. Being the school holidays I have added to the tribe and am pleased to say that whilst last week kicked my butt this week has been much better.

I enjoy watching Cooper interacting with different aged children and learning how to play cooperatively and share. I know Cooper loves it and usually tries his hardest to sneak in to the car when the kids are trying to go home...so far no such luck.

And before you all think that I am abandoning the kids, three are a sleep (oh yeah), one is resting for 30 mins, and the oldest two are making the most of having no little ones and playing a game in the cubby about shops, and I am making the most of it by eating lunch and typing.

That's about all I have got, except why is it that kids will happily play quietly all day but as soon as they need to be quiet they decide to play the loudest they have all day?

The In Between

2011-07-05T10:37:00.000+10:00

I went to visit our old neighbour the other day and we started to talk about a book she had read called the "In between" and it was all about how in every person's life they experience some form of feeling in between, whether in life, work, love, etc. As soon as she started talking about it I related to it straight away as I have been feeling like that since we decided to move to Brissy...and Jim had to go alone.

Finally I can see the light and everything is slowly falling into place, including me replacing my mum when she goes away on her cruise doing her office job, with the possibility of extending it whilst I am still in town. I am pretty excited about getting the experience as I have been really questioning whether I really wanted to go back to childcare. I sort of feel that it's going to be hard enough having to leave Cooper, let alone to go and look after other children, and then having to come home and do what I had all day at work...make sense?

So this is a win-win situation I feel, my mum can go away and know that at least for a few hours a day (when Cooper is sleeping) the office will be attended and I get to have hands on experience and learn all about quick books and wages and have it on my resume which will hopefully allow me a little more flexibility with the jobs I can apply for.

Childcare is not completely out of the question in the future, I just feel right now after nine years I need to change things up a bit and see what else is out there for me, especially when moving to a place that offers endless opportunities.

Point & Shoot: Mary Poppins

2011-07-04T09:32:00.001+10:00

Over the weekend the town held the annual Mary Poppins festival which is something I had been looking forward to for months and was made even better that hubby was able to share it with us. Last year Cooper was too little to go on any of the rides but this year was a different story and he loved the spinning teacups...especially when the lady spun it to go extra fast.

Me on the other hand not so much as I had spent the majority of the morning pigging out on a wide variety of food, including german sausage, calamari, nachos, works burger, mini pancakes, and coffee.

The only thing I was disappointed with was the fact that there wasn't any camels like last year, but after hearing some stories that may of been for the best.

Playing along with Lou.

Death By Chocolate

2011-07-01T11:15:00.001+10:00

There really is something about the day Friday...or that might just be me as hubby comes home tonight after TWO weeks apart and I can't wait! This week saw the first week of school holidays which for me means a few extra children, and to be honest this week (and the five kids) totally kicked my butt, luckily for me I had a little something to get me through yesterday and today...

Is that not the most deliciously evil chocolate cake you have ever seen? Turns out school holidays came at a perfect time as my cousin has just started up a cake making business as a hobby on top of her 9-5 and is in the experimental stage which means there's cake to be eaten and she dropped it off with the kids for a taste test.

What's in it you ask? Oh just three layers of moist chocolate cake, two layers of macaroons WITH chocolate mousse, smothered in a chocolate ganache! It's name Death by Chocolate of course, and in case you were wondering if it's a little too much...not at all and this is coming from a girl that prefers savoury over sweet.

My only task is making sure I don't eat Jim's slice between now and midnight.

You can check out her other creations on her facebook page and take my word for it they were all delicious.

Disclaimer: My cousin did not ask me to do this post I just wanted to share with you all how clever she is and make you all hungry. Now excuse me I am off to eat cake.

Off the top of my head

2011-06-28T12:13:00.002+10:00

- After a week spent on the lounge room floor feeling like crap my mum managed to kick my butt long enough to move the rest of our furniture and boxes in to the storage shed so I can park the car in the garage. Thankfully mum was able to get us one of the closest sheds so we didn't have too far to move it all and what we couldn't fit in to the cars we used the trolley which Cooper thought was ACE as it meant he was able to ride it on the return trips.

- My child is way too in tuned with me and I really must remember that if I am in a bad mood then it will rub off on him and we will both be miserable.

- That said Cooper is loving being in this new environment, especially as Noni has two cats who he loves to pat and give kisses to ( trying to discourage the last one) and a big backyard in which he can run around in. It's also pretty good that there are now three dinner plates to do the seagull over, three pairs of hands to offer cuddles, and lots of internal stairs to try out his latest tricks on.

- On the topic of Cooper can someone please explain the fascination he has with the T.V remotes, phones, and power point/ light switches?? Swear it's going to drive me insane if he touches any of them one.more.time!

- I really believe the worst part of moving is having to change address. It takes way too long and there's always bound to be someone important you forget to tell. Thank god for mail redirection...wonder how long you can get away with just doing that.

- Missing my friends and the catch ups, and just generally missing the big city (never thought I would say that)

- I miss my husband, lots and lots, as does Cooper.

Change is as good as a holiday

2011-06-23T12:49:00.002+10:00

So where do I begin? Regular readers will notice that my surrounding are different and that would be because Cooper and I are now staying at my mums, so when we move to Brissy we wont be going on the back foot and hopefully be debt free. It all happened really quickly and after a short discussion with my mum the week before last the next day she had organised the boys (she works for a storage and removal company..score) to be there on the Saturday at 7.00 am.

We were really lucky to have my family helping out so we got all the bond cleaning done by 5.30pm the same day, I had my sister scrubbing walls, Jim outside and somehow RollyPop ended up cleaning the oven, though in my defence I did do the two bathrooms on my own...still probably owe them a few carton's!

Even though all I want is for Jim, Cooper and I to be in the same place I know this is going to help us out in the future and hey if we can get through this (which we will) then its going to not only make us a stronger couple but also stronger individuals which can only be a good thing.

Oh and in case you are wondering No I don't wear glasses I was just bored and playing around with mum's 'fake' ones...because that's just how I roll :)

Gold Coast Fun

2011-06-22T16:49:00.001+10:00

I had been looking forward to the past weekend for months so when I started to feel sick with fevers on the Friday I was more than a little cranky, but thankfully I woke up Saturday morning feeling 100 times better and ready to kick off on our GC Event road trip. Unfortunately I was a little too excited which saw me awake at some ungodly hour and meant I had hours to wait before I was due over at Dani's where the other Dani and Zoe were waiting.

This was the longest I had been away from Cooper and though I love him to pieces I think this was well overdue, for him and ME.

After a quick stop at the airport to pick up the lovely Bec it was time to hit the road, trying to keep our first position from Liss, Destination; Q1 Gold Coast! I can only imagine how nervous Bec must of been getting in to the car with us all but with in a few minutes she started coming out of her shell and it was like we had all known each other for years.

After checking in and catching up with Suger it was time to see our amazing apartment and because I am one of those "touchy" people that involves opening every cupboard/drawer in the place. Then it was time for the important sleeping arrangements I scored Suger which may or may not have something to do with our sleeping habits (ie snoring) and then it was time to hit the shops for a few last minute items oh and the bottel-o (Have I mentioned this was my first weekend away??)

We arrived 'home' with just enough time to get ready and have that all important first drink before heading down to the restaurant and taking a few more photos while we waited to be seated. I had never had Teppanyaki so I was really looking forward to the whole experience and it didn't disappoint.

Seriously what better way to warm up on a cold winter's night? We had a great Chef who was not only entertaining but a comedian as well which I think added to the overall awesomeness of the experience. I loved how interactive it was though I learnt two valuable lessons, I can not catch egg in my mouth nor can I catch a whole egg in a bowl.

I think it's about here when things get a little hazy and I place full blame (not really) on my new bestie Liss! This girl is seriously a good time (not in that way..get your head out of the gutter) and even though we had met before this time we just clicked and had a ball together...so much so we were worried that we would never be allowed back to a Hello Blogger Event.

With our tummies full and our glasses (bottles) empty it was time to do the sneaky upstairs and continue the fun where I was able to chat to some lovely bloggers I hadn't met before including Tara, Tabitha, and even the one and only Sunny Mummy. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to talk to everybody but that might have something to do with this...

It may surprise you but I was the first one awake and after my must have morning cup of tea (why do kettles have to be so noisy???) I felt ~~fine~~ okay and was ready to start the day, first stop Breakfast!

After a delicious Breakfast and coke that was not real coke it was time to head back and explore the grounds and facilities at the Q1 with the mission to find sunshine and a hot tub before having to check out and returning back to the normality of life. We succeeded in finding both and made sure we soaked it up to the very last minute before check out.

Overall it was a wonderful weekend spent with not only amazing bloggers but amazing people that I am now lucky enough to call friends and can't wait for our next adventure together.

A big thanks to Little Harp Photography & Danimezza for taking so many great photos and allowing me to borrow them.

Feeling sorry for myself

2011-06-21T19:23:00.000+10:00

I had grand plans to blog today as I have been really slack and struggling to find the time to sit down and fill you all in on the big changes that have been happening around here, instead I am curled up on the lounge room floor feeling the worst I have felt in a very long time.

Luckily I am staying with my mum and she has kindly offered to do the bed and bath routine for the night, so I am going to make the most of it and have an early night in a vain attempt to break this fever (again) and wake up fresh enough to tell you all about my amazing weekend.

Digital Kid

2011-06-09T12:53:00.000+10:00

The last few weeks has seen Cooper and I do more highway driving then I ever have since getting my license. On the most part Cooper is a relatively good traveller which probably in part is due to the fact that I try and leave just before his sleep and if lucky I can usually get two hours of peace and quiet and then can entertain him with music, food, and books until we get to our destination.

On Tuesday on our way home from our short stay in Brisbane I left a little later then usual which meant Cooper was over tired and led to a massive melt down on the motorway. Feeling a tad stressed and running out of options I threw my camera over the back seat and hoped for the best. Instantly the tanty stopped and was replaced with "oohh's" and "aahh's" and the beeps of Cooper touching god knows what in the settings.

He played happily until passing out with the camera still in his hands about thirty minutes later, which was when I turned it off and put it in my bag forgetting about it until reading Hello Owl's post about kids tough camera's. I was surprised when I started going through the photos to see that he had managed to take around 15 shots with only a couple of them being out of focus and blurry! Not quite sure on what he was trying to capture but I have a feeling he was probably thinking "Are we freaking there yet???"

Point & Shoot: Sushi

2011-06-06T15:36:00.000+10:00

On Sunday I attended my second blog meet in Brisbane which was something I had been looking forward to for quite some time and thankfully I wasn't left disappointed. Though it was a smaller affair then the last one I attended I still had a wonderful time and found that it was the perfect number for a sushi meet and gave everyone (well when I let them) a chance to talk, discuss, and ask questions of the blogging nature.

I have often walked past sushi places and wandered what all the fuss was about, especially as I am not a huge lover of seafood, but since hanging out with Dani and hearing how much her family loved the stuff I was keen to give it ago...especially with the reassurance that I wouldn't be eating raw fish. My eyes were a little too big for my belly and I ordered way more then I should of but it was delicious..except for the one that even though I knew was chicken tasted like a chunks of salmon.

Not only was I looking forward to meeting up with Zoe and Danielle I was excited to meet some lovely new bloggers including Sheri who is new to the world of personal blogging and Mrs BC. I found everybody to be really warm and welcoming and loved learning more about people that I wouldn't of got the chance to if it wasn't for the hard work that the two Dani's put in to Hello Blogger Events.

Playing along with Lou.

The Week (and a bit) That Was...

2011-06-02T13:47:00.001+10:00

Excuse me while I clean away the cobwebs...

It has been a little quiet thanks to my computer having to go back AGAIN to be repaired and a spur of a moment decision to go back to to Brisbane with hubby for the week. So here's our week ( and a bit) in review...

Last Sunday after stopping in at my Gran's for a roast lunch and a play on the farm we were on our way. I am not going to lie I very much enjoy being the passenger as I find their is far more important things to do like tweeting, or even sewing when my reception drops out between Tiaro and Gympie.

There were lots of trips to the park though on our first outing someone (might of been me) decided to put Cooper on the fast slide whilst they went down the bumpy one ( aka the slow one) lets just say it didn't end well and he ended up with his very first black eye...Whoops! Being the trooper he is brushed it off and continued playing...though funnily enough he didn't go anywhere near that slide again.

Not only did we find some amazing parks but we also had some pretty fab company with Hello Owl and her girls meeting us for play dates, where my suspicions were confirmed girls are definitely different from boys! We were lucky enough to catch up a few times and even took the kids to the library which may or may not of ended with Hanachi. The funniest thing I saw was Cooper bending over Vi babbling away at her and then pointed to an escape root, shook his head when she didn't respond, waved and took off...luckily I am faster...just!

One of my absolute highlights was getting to see my brother play union at his school with the family, including my Pa who had the biggest grin watching his grandson play and the pride he felt was evident to all those around him. I can't believe my brother will be finished school this year so I really want to get down there so I can see a few more before it's too late! Cooper loved seeing his Aunties and Nanny and nearly burst when he saw the present they bought for him....crocs (shoes) that are crocodiles!

Jim and I were luckily enough to also have a night out thanks to my MIL offering to look after Coops and after a glass (or two) of wine it was decided that we should go ice skating. I have only been once before and whilst I am no expert it usually only takes a couple of laps before I think I am better then what I really am . The thing about ice skating, I believe anyway, is that if you don't crash out at least once you aren't trying hard enough, also it's really hard not to laugh at some crashes but as soon as you do you will be the one on the ice being laughed at..Murphy's law and all. ( Trust me my butt knows all about that)

About an hour in we had all axed ourselves enough to cause instant bruising and decided to change our plans that saw me in heels (which I never wear and was thanks to Coop taking out one of my flats whilst I was packing) running over a stupid train overpass thingy for a train to only be told that by the driver he wasn't waiting for us to buy tickets...but then stood there arguing the fact for five minutes. Not to be deterred we called a cab who of course decided to come to the other side of the station and once again saw me running up the ramp wondering how the heck I was going to walk for the rest of the night. Luckily for me the casino had nice comfy couches where I sat for the rest of the night trying to work out how you play the tables...I still don't know...but it was fun watching all the different hand actions people have.

A trip to Brissy is not complete without visiting Chermside and all of the awesome toy shops, though at nearly $300 my son is dreaming about ever owning one of those! I love how Cooper's eye's light up as soon as we walk in to that place and how simple things like the escalators can cause him so much excitement...something tells me he is going to love being a city kid. It wasn't all fun and games I was there to look for houses but because I am so lucky not one new house came up whilst I was there, but of course now I am at home at least five have come up.

Before I knew it it was time to say goodbye to Jim and make the drive back to the realities of life, thankfully the boy slept most of the way which made things easier. It wasn't until I got home I realised I am meant to be back in Brisbane on Sunday for the sushi meet, so I will be back down this weekend, and there's no complaints coming from me about that.

Push: Shadows

2011-05-30T18:48:00.000+10:00

When I read the theme for Push was shadows I was kicking myself for not bringing the external hard drive as I had the perfect picture to use! Instead I quickly took this photo before the last of the sunshine disappeared from my Mil's yard this afternoon...with my phone as I also smartly remembered my camera but not the SD card!
Push is a fun new game all about pushing your photography skills to the limit and always striving to do better and be better, to be more creative and find something exciting in your everyday life. Each Tuesday a new theme will be posted on Hello Owl then it's your job to go off in the world and find something unique or quirky you would like to share.