tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-232611442024-03-07T18:24:57.071+10:30When do we get the toaster?Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.comBlogger194125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-62924576702383376172010-05-06T21:51:00.000+09:302010-05-06T21:51:36.437+09:30Al is 3We had Al's third birthday this weekend just gone. It was lovely - just a few friends and six or so of their kids. And another year of Thomas the Tank Engine. We had planned to have another theme this year but AL was insistent and as my friend Leanne said 'its not like he'll want it when he is 15'<br />
<br />
We had a few party games which he totally enjoyed and he loved the singing and candle blowing. It was laid back and sunny and basically a very nice event.<br />
<br />
It was however late. We had to postpone because Al got norovirus and shared it around the family just after his real birthday in April. We are still recovering really as we have moved through weeks and weeks of revolving family illness, she has it, he has it, he has it, she has it again, oh lets try that again shall we. Gaye currently has pnemonia, Thomas a temp and Al a cold. I'm the last one standing.<br />
<br />
Must be time to organise a holiday...Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-85047876591183364732010-03-25T13:57:00.000+10:302010-03-25T13:57:45.945+10:30How do you say toilet?I dropped Thomas off to school camp yesterday morning. It is three days long and they don't get to speak anything but Italian. He couldn't believe that the teachers wouldn't speak English to him for the whole trip. Neither could I but for slightly different reasons. He has spent the whole week practicing things like where is the toilet? coming up with strategies to manage any possible social gaffs and working out who he wants to have in his cabin. <br />
<br />
They don't let parents go on camp anymore. When I was teaching (and when I was a kid) the parent helper was an important part of camp management. Now it seems it is all about having some time away from us (perhaps we are all a bit helicopterish). I think it is a shame really cause I loved it when my folks came on camp and I was kinda looking forward to doing that. Thomas however seem completely unconcerned about having time away from us.<br />
<br />
He wasn't at all keen about me coming into the hall to drop him off - all the other parents were! And was told very firmly and clearly NOT to kiss him goodbye in front of his friends. Sigh... shoulder rub and have a good time darling was all I was left with.<br />
<br />
I am thinking of him alot - I am sure I haven't even crossed his mind!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-39433600739788179832010-03-15T09:57:00.002+10:302010-03-15T09:59:23.583+10:30Really honestly I want to live on a commune<meta content="" name="Title"></meta> <meta content="" name="Keywords"></meta> <meta content="text/html; charset=utf-8" http-equiv="Content-Type"></meta> <meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"></meta> <meta content="Microsoft Word 2008" name="Generator"></meta> <meta content="Microsoft Word 2008" name="Originator"></meta> <link href="file://localhost/Users/annettecairnduff/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip/0clip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link> <style>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p>Well sort of a commune. I was born in the sixties but I want the 2010 version. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I want to live in close radius (my idea is four or six houses in two rows that back into each other so we can take down the fences and have a huge backyard) in the middle of Sydney with friends and family who are all raising children. I want our kids to go to schools nearby to each other so we can share the drop-offs and pick ups, I want to share a couple of cars, a lawn mower and set up a grocery run roster. I want to take it in turns to go out to the markets and buy our vegies for the whole group. I want to share dropping of dry cleaning and letting in the tradies. I want to share after-school care and the occasional I’ll feed and bath your kids cause you need to work late or are studying tonight. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I want to have our own houses for each family so we can have our own space and setting and things. I want us to be able to pay our own bills so each can spend on what is important to them. But I want to do that in close proximity to other people I love and trust with my children.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I want a huge back yard for my kids to play in and for me to know that there is a community of people with their eyes on them. I want to share the occasional dinner along a long table set up outside in that backyard where we would each bring plates of food to share and celebrate significant occasions in this way as well.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Every week at somepoint I have a conversation with a friend about the juggle and the busy and the stuff that needs to be done and the time spent doing things that we are all doing. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">And every time I think I want to live in a commune.</div>Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-21258846871595657012010-03-08T16:54:00.001+10:302010-03-08T17:00:07.661+10:30weekends awayWe really love a weekend away in my family. Whenever we have one I declare we have to have them more often (I also make this declaration after every holiday) but the reality is we are lucky to get away every 6 - 8 weeks.<br />
<br />
Gaye has been away ALOT this year for work and to be with <a href="http://www.lwb.org.au/Tribute.aspx">Carol</a> and so we haven't been away at all this year until now.<br />
<br />
This time Thomas, Al and I travelled by (two) trains and plane (and a walk through the pouring rain to get to the station) to meet Gaye who was in Brisbane for work. The boys were gorgeous together. Thomas downloading a popular little kids tv show on his new i*pod for Al to watch. Al would only watch if Thomas did to, they sat on the train, Al's hand on Thomas knee - honestly I thought my heart would break.<br />
<br />
We had a truly lovely time in Brissie (do only non QLD'ers call it that?). We caught up with Carol's family on Saturday and then spent the best part of the rest of the weekend at <a href="http://www.visitsouthbank.com.au/">Southbank </a> streets beach.<br />
<br />
A perfect spot for the just 11 year old and almost 3 year old (and you can't say that about many places) with decent coffee to boot for the mummas.<br />
<br />
We slept and ate and hung out and caught the plane and two trains back home. Thomas made more trips to the buffet than you can count at the Q club out on the way home. Al watching intently for the seatbelt light to go off on landing.<br />
<br />
The boys - weekend away bonded - bathed together last night. Thomas calling out 'we need tea cups Gaye!!!' from the bath while Gaye and I had a red together. <br />
<br />
PerfectClarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-32689874869802404702010-03-05T13:47:00.001+10:302010-03-05T13:54:01.114+10:30should we talk about talkingAl doesn't talk much yet.<br />
<br />
That is right he is almost three and only says about 10 words. The clearest of which are 'no' and his versions of his brother's and the dog's names. So worry right?<br />
<br />
Gaye and I have taken it in turns to worry about this; with one parent thinking it will be okay while the other is concerned about it. This worry alternation has facilitated a series of appointments and tests for hearing and development - with one parent almost always at the 'just in case'/'just to be sure' stage at anyone time.<br />
<br />
See the thing is Al understands everything. EVERYTHING. He can follow and understand two or three part instructions, he is able to communicate - through signs and charm and sounds - to have his needs met. He is a happy and joy filled child. Who is engaged and connected with the people in his life and the world around him. Not even the slightest bit frustrated by his own lack of talking. As it turns out all the appointments and tests have endorsed that he is meeting all his other development milestones in fine form and has almost perfect hearing. So surely I <i>shouldn't</i> worry? But <i>should</i> we do anything?<br />
<br />
I have learnt to use completely different language about Al's language development when talking to different people. With professionals I talk about his perfectly developed receptive language but under developed expressive language. With our families and friends I talk about how the professionals say he will talk when he is ready. With Thomas I talk about everyone developing 'at his or her own rate' and how sometimes 'we all need help with something' and in our family when we need extra help with something we are lucky enough to be able to afford a 'teacher' or a tool to do that. 'Like you with reading darling, remember you needed a teacher to help you catch up. And now look at you, years ahead of your class level.' <br />
<br />
Thomas definitely thinks we <i>should</i> do something if Al <i>should</i> be talking by now. My mother and Gaye's mother think we <i>should</i> leave well enough alone. 'He is clearly bright enough and understanding everything he will talk when he is ready.' My sister who spends more time with him than his grandmothers combined thinks that she would 'be worrying a bit by now if I was you'<br />
<br />
The staff at little school were, I think, pretty surprised at Al's ability to communicate without language. I think they thought we were a bit in denial before they spent time with him but now agree that Al can get any message across that he wants and understands 'absolutely everything' that is said around him. In fact one of the reasons we sent him to little school was the hope that interacting with other children and/or having adults (and older brother) around who didn't interpret his every need from the raising of an eyebrow might inspire him to use more language. So far it has meant a much clearer and definite no!<br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago I saw a TV show about an early intervention centre. As we both have backgrounds in education/children with disabilities Gaye and I understand the (positive) difference that early intervention can make. We also understand the (negative) impact that diagnosis/labelling can have on how a child is perceived.<br />
<br />
Anyway inspired by the positive engagement and good outcomes showcased on this program I rang the centre for an appointment for Al. I then rang our paediatrician for a referral. 'The blah blah centre?' she said. 'Al doesn't need to go there!' We talked about how ineffectual the local speech therapist at the hospital had been (she kept asking me if we read to him...) and so she suggested we go to another 'if you are really worried about it.'<br />
<br />
Last Friday Gaye took him. He behaved in ways unseen before. He was unwell and had been up all night with asthma. He refused to talk, refused to play, banged his head against the door hard enough to make the room shake, signed to be taken to the toilet about 8 times in the hour, spat his food out and did not look at the speechy. Gaye said it was mortifying. As each time the speechy asked him or Gaye something Al did the opposite. Gaye said the speechy started doing that slow nodding and 'of coursing' that a person does when they clearly think you are off your rocker/in denial. Gaye also said the speechy had crap toys and was in Al's face - surely not something you would generally do with an almost three year old?<br />
<br />
I took him to the paediatrician that afternoon to have his chest listened to. She laughed ALOT when I told her about the appointment - as the now rested and comfy Al was charming and chatty (sounds not words) with her. 'Ohhh I am looking forward to that report Al!' she said. <br />
<br />
We think the speechy thinks he completely developmentally delayed (she says his speech is at 15 months) and we are in complete denial. So we asked her to delay the report until after she had seen him again 'when he was feeling better.' She is coming to do a house visit next week. Sigh ...<br />
<br />
And see now I feel quite judgemental of her - who judges a three year old on one meeting? what sort of professional who works with children has missing part/not fitting and dull toys?<br />
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Sometimes I wish I wasn't the parent who did something...Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-65314637903350499702010-03-03T09:58:00.002+10:302010-03-03T10:54:28.969+10:30sighing with reliefI am not really a glass half full person.<br />
<br />
About eight years ago now, thou my life took a very different course from the one I had planned, wanted, expected. And sometime since then I have made a real effort to find the half full glass ( or at least some of it!). The more I practice the better I do (and probably not surprisingly the happier I am, the better my life feels, the more able I am to deal and manage life's small and big challenges) ... but still it is not a natural thing for me to look for the positive. Gaye is a very positive and forward looking no nonsense sort of person and this certainly impacts on my way of thinking about things but still I am not likely to shout from the roof if something is … you know ….good. <br />
<br />
And so right now, you’ll understand, I am still a little hesitant about declaring how happy I feel with the decision we made to move Thomas to a new school. Gaye and I talk about it nearly everyday. We are in a constant state of amazement at the changes in him. <br />
<br />
Ever since Grade 2 (at infant school) Thomas has started most school days with a reason why he shouldn't go to school. Sometimes it started the night before. This hasn't happened once yet in this school.<br />
<br />
In the last few years at old school I have often asked him - what is good at school? What do you like? And the answer has always been 'lunch and playing with my friends.'<br />
<br />
Last Thursday as we walked to school from the bus he said (without any prompting or questioning from this mother)'you know what I really look forward to Mum - language class when we do the find-a-word and I really like my maths teacher.<br />
<br />
I made every effort to be low key (we were in the street close to school and he is in year 5 after all!) but could not help but give him a hug and tell him that was just fantastic.<br />
<br />
He is working enthusiastically at his homework and talking about it really positively. The teachers are talking positively about his enthusiasm and friendliness that he is doing well. <br />
<br />
I am not sure if it is a timing thing, a maturity thing, an opportunity to reinvent himself, maybe he is being stretched more (the work seems much harder but he is taking it in his stride), maybe it is because he is more settled now he lives in one home and visits his Dad rather than living across two homes, maybe it is because the school has a real philosophy of personal responsibility and expects the kids to step up (which he is) I don’t know.<br />
<br />
All I know is that my boy from Kindergarten who embraced new things, was excited by learning, who had a go, who was happy and settled has returned.<br />
<br />
He asked me to come out to the swimming carnival yesterday, which I did ofcourse even though it meant a lunch hour in the traffic. He was thrilled to bits to win two blue ribbons and one bronze and so chuffed to contribute 29 points to his house.<br />
<br />
I had missed his swims but he was still glad to see me and we sat together eating hot chips and cheered and shouted on our friend Zac (who is in third grade but another house) and watched him win his race too. <br />
<br />
So far so good at new schoolClarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-6679936536987369222010-02-24T15:10:00.001+10:302010-02-24T15:19:29.374+10:30Tuesday morningsOn Tuesday mornings we have to be at school by 7:30 for music.<br />
<br />
Thomas is not, much to my disappointment as I just loved it at school, a big fan of playing music. We have tried guitar and clarinet but he really doesn't enjoy it much and I had (in old school) given up and accepted that it was not his thing. But in this school all the grade 4s and 5s have to do band. And that involves being at school by 7:30 in the morning once a week on a Tuesday. <br />
<br />
Because of the need to drop Al off a bit later and because it is just too hot to ride (39 degrees yesterday) we have started catching the bus to school, especially on Tuesdays. Gaye then takes Al into little school by car and drops the car off at my parking place at work so I can pick the boys up without everyone frying. (Bring on autumn so we can ride again)<br />
<br />
Thomas really does not like the fact that he has to get up at 6:00. He has to because it takes him at least an hour to dress, eat, feed the dog and put his lunch in his bag in the morning. That is right four things 1. eat the food put in front of him 2.Dress in a t-shirt, shorts, socks, shoes, sunscreen and teeth 3.feed half a cup of dried food to the dog and give him clean water 4.put lunch that has been made for him in his bag.<br />
<br />
On Tuesdays I just don't worry about his 'jobs' ie: walking the dog, making the bed and putting out the rubbish. Because that would mean we would need to get up at 5:30.<br />
<br />
See so that is, like, 15 minutes per task or maybe 20 for the dressing and 10 for the dog. He tells me it is completely impossible to do that.Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-54557015714327913902010-02-22T14:35:00.005+10:302010-02-22T14:45:51.110+10:30griefWe are a bit sad in Toaster town.<br />
<br />
A very dear friend of Gaye's and good friend to all our family, Carol, died last week. Carol was an exceptional woman and her community contribution enormous. So much so there has been a research fund in her <a href="http://www.lwb.org.au/Tribute.aspx">name</a> and Gaye has put plenty of energy assisting with the establishment of this in the past months as her friend was dying. Carol was excited about the fund and what it represented and it has been a bit of a blessing for Gaye as she has poured all her sadness into action. <br />
<br />
For Gaye this is an incredible loss, and that is not for me to blog about. But it has also been a big loss for our family ... and for me, as I mourn the loss of a friend, mentor and supporter, it has been a time of also thinking about how to walk the boys, Thomas in particular, through grief.<br />
<br />
Carol was a big part of our lives, sharing in big and small family events and spending many an hour in tea fueled conversation about the boy’s development, milestones, trials and tribulations. Carol was a fan of our two boys and they of her. Always pleased to see each other, no matter how much time had passed between visits it was always comfortable and fun to have Carol at our home. Her visits were filled with laughter, shocked expressions, raised eyebrows and <strike>gossip</strike> er, debriefs. We talked about work, politics, public policy, our friends, her grandkids and our boys. We ate and talked and talked and ate. <br />
<br />
I can't tell you how impossible it is to believe that this life-filled person is no longer with us. All the way through her funeral there was this sense of unbelievability about it, surely at any moment we could turn around and talk to her about what people were saying and doing in their grief. <br />
<br />
We remained hopeful - perhaps in denial of reality - of a good or better outcome until only a short while ago. But at the same time we were open with the boys, Thomas in particular, that she was very unwell but fighting, very unwell but trying so hard to stay with us and her family for as long as she could.<br />
<br />
Once we became aware that this was a fight she couldn't win we talked about that with him too. He broke my heart each time we talked about it, 'is there no crack not even the smallest crack in the door Mum that she can win?''what if we took her to another doctor, one far away?' Her grandchildren had similar and even more heart wrenching conversations with their parents. Making bargains and hoping for another outcome.<br />
<br />
Although Thomas has experienced some death in his life, Carol was the first person he really loved who died. <br />
<br />
We all went up the funeral, Thomas and Al's first. It was a very child friendly funeral ... balloons, colouring in and stickers. <br />
<br />
We took a friend to look after Al. Al at two is not aware of the loss or the meaning of it. But I feel so sad that he will not know Carol as he grows. <br />
<br />
I was so proud of Thomas, he cried gently and easily, he spent a lot of time gauging the reactions of the other many children at the funeral aware that some had lost their nonna, he bravely sat on his own while Gaye spoke (and I stood by her) about her love for Carol and Carol's love for our boys, he went and got both Gaye and I a cup of tea without being asked at the wake he continues to be concerned (without being anxious) for Gaye as primary griever.<br />
<br />
It keeps passing through my mind to tell Carol ....Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-82788706447719347472010-02-16T08:06:00.000+10:302010-02-16T08:06:31.306+10:30Thomas' first impressionsThomas came home from his first day of school pretty impressed with new school.<br />
<br />
Mainly he likes that he is expected to get about the school both in the morning and on the way to language and music classes on his own - rather that marched about in two lines from place to place.<br />
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He also thinks the canteen looks like a cafe.<br />
<br />
And he got to choose his own buddy - apparently a good thing.<br />
<br />
His main comment on the kids was that 'they sit up straight and listen all the time mum.'<br />
<br />
Gaye and I almost wet ourselves at his story of getting lost thou.<br />
<br />
After being told by the teachers at orientation 'not to worry about getting lost everyone does. Just remember you are in the Wright Building on level 1. That is <i>right</i> <i>with a 'W</i>', W R I G H T.'<br />
<br />
Much to his embarrassment I made him practice walking into the classroom (two floors up, past reception, along the walkway, into the other building and down a floor) before we left.<br />
<br />
One of the first things I asked him was 'how many times did you get lost'<br />
<br />
'Only once Mum,' was his reply. 'It was because I was looking for the <i>wong</i> building - you know wrong without an r.'<br />
<br />
That is one for the 21st....Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-84069799558786648002010-02-16T07:55:00.000+10:302010-02-16T07:55:11.969+10:30That big boy is 11Thomas turned 11 yesterday. And really we couldn't be more proud of him. He is really doing the transfer to the new school with a mature attitude and an open spirit. Makes a mumma's heart sing.<br />
<br />
He was thrilled to bits with his i*pod n*anno and speakers telling me over and over that it was 'the best present of his life'<br />
<br />
We celebrated with chocolate afternoon teas and dinner with Aunty Lou.<br />
<br />
He took cakes to school and commented on how the kids were so lovely and all kept wishing him a happy birthday.<br />
<br />
The party is to come - but the day it self was a very happy one.Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-10020233888738231282010-02-05T13:29:00.001+10:302010-02-05T13:30:46.250+10:30what did little school say about his first day ...Al’s First Day at Little School<br />
3rd February 2010<br />
We welcomed you today Al, as you arrived with your mum Clare, who spent some time with you as you familiarised yourself more with our morning tea routine. <br />
You appeared so comfortable in your environment, a big smile appearing on your face as you looked around your surroundings. No doubt many of the things you saw were already familiar to you, as you’ve done quite a number of pre visits before your first day of care today. You only took a few bites of your morning tea (which was corn thins and apple slices), as there were so many distractions around you and you couldn’t help but get up from your seat and explore these. <br />
When your mum left you kept that smile and continued to explore what was around you. You played with the toy cars, pushing these along the table; you also were drawn to the drawing experience a few times and made markings on the paper using textas. Drawing is an interest of yours, and this is something we can provide for you to engage in while at the centre. You pointed to the Thomas hats on the hooks and picked up a book on trains from the book shelf and looked at this. From speaking to both your mums we found out that you like trains, and you are already showing your interest in the objects with trains at the centre on your first day.<br />
Inside you were quite interested on the beds on the floor and happily lay on a few of them, as if deciding which one is the most comfortable for you to lie in. Again you couldn’t sit for too long during lunchtime and just wanted to explore the indoor environment. This is understandable as everything is still a novelty for you and all you wanted to do this day was explore and engage in the experiences.<br />
By now your day at the centre had ended, with Anmah (<i>note that is me Clare!</i>) picking you up early. It was great to see you so comfortable on your first day and no doubt you will enjoy the rest of your time at the centre. Welcome Al to Little School and to the Blue group!<br />
____________<br />
<br />
He is as happy as a lark. Yesterday he was off to play not long after morning tea and today pushed Gaye out the door when they arrived with a 'byyyeee' He is not eating much there year but slept there yesterday for two hours...<br />
<br />
Happy bubba, happy mummasClarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-9360780330389177852010-02-02T12:20:00.001+10:302010-02-02T12:34:11.722+10:30Little SchoolAl starts childcare tomorrow. I admit to feeling a level of relief at the flexibility that childcare will bring that having a carer at home doesn’t. We can start and finish when we need to, and if that changes no-one will mind, if the carer is sick we will still have childcare and we will be able to leave the house without being concerned about the environment we are leaving for the child carer to work in.<br />
<br />
But at the same time I feel more than a bit nervous. Al has terrible allergies to everyday foods and it takes a lot of attention to remember to wash your hands after wheat and not to have eggs etc. He isn’t speaking much yet and uses a combination of charm and signs to get what he wants and needs. Knowing he was home with someone who cared and was careful has eased my mind a plenty over the last eighteen months.<br />
<br />
The centre – which we are calling ‘little school’ - has been so lovely to us and to him. They have come up with excellent plans to manage his allergies and have other children with allergies. It has a lot of green space around it which gives a sense that it is not right in the inner city (although it is).<br />
<br />
On his orientation visits Al has seemed to love little school, he is keen to engage with the other kids, dancing and playing blocks. The have a huge sandpit and a cubby house – things he doesn’t get to play with at home. He is thrilled by the mini loos and yesterday sat and ate with his friends. His current carer and his grandmother who have both taken him on visits as well have commented on the friendly staff and Al’s comfort there.<br />
<br />
We call it ‘little school’ by-the-way because of Beth Norling’s lovely book <a href="http://www.jacketflap.com/bookdetail.asp?bookid=1929132425 ">Little School</a> I bought this book for Thomas before he started pre-school. It is so gorgeously illustrated and details simply the routine of a day at little school (with lots of different options) and all the action at home before and after. Al loves it , as did his brother.<br />
<br />
<br />
I am probably a bit marred by the fact that Thomas started childcare just about this age, and despite a lovely environment, just around the corner from our then home (it was the childcare centre in the inner west at the time) – he walked back and forward entreating me to take him to work with us ‘I’ll be good mumma.’ After a few months we gave up and both worked part-time! He was completely fine 18 months later when starting pre-school, but he continues to be more of a homebody.<br />
<br />
Al is a completely different sort of boy, highly social happy enough at two to run amuck with 500 primary school students at the Easter Hat Parade and over summer to dance at the camp ground disco in amongst a huge pile of much larger children while we stood by and watched from the sidelines. These are things Thomas never would have done or enjoyed these things at the same age and so hopefully this will also mark the difference in their responses.Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-1829890664782193592010-02-01T08:41:00.000+10:302010-02-01T08:41:31.209+10:30Riding along on my push bike honey.....One of my resolutions for 2010 was to ride my new bike to work at least three times a week. <br />
<br />
Since working at this work I have walked, bussed and driven to work. Mostly I am ashamed to say the last as my day usually involves some sort of family pick up or drop off at school or the station at the beginning or the end of the day.<br />
<br />
My work is only a ten-minute ride or a twenty-minute walk from home. This year, Thomas’ new school is a five minute ride/ten minute walk from my office, Al’s little school (which he starts this week) is five minutes ride from there and my office is about ten minutes on the bike from little school. ie: it is all close and doable on the bike.<br />
<br />
Plus I really need to build in the exercise into my day to day life (this is the only way exercise works for me) and I fundamentally think it is better for the kids days to start with a bike, walk or bus ride to school.<br />
<br />
I was full of plans to ride – and Gaye has made it as easy as possible for me by buying me a new bike as a birthday/Christmas present - I put a new seat on the back for Al as we found the front wee-rider a bit hard to peddle around (short legs!).<br />
<br />
Al likes going on the back and we have been out for a few runs together.<br />
<br />
I started the working year well riding three times during my first week back, but the following two weeks have been filled with commitments to drive Gaye’s Mum to little school or back with Al for his pre-start visits. (Grandma does not like to drive in Sydney).<br />
<br />
Thomas was pretty reluctant, he is not an enthusiastic bike rider at the best of times – plus he has left over fear from a fall a few years ago. Plus he didn’t see any kids ride at new school and he is right at the age where it is very important to FIT IN.<br />
<br />
Still we set out this morning, lifting his seat about 4 inches due to growth since he last rode it, and suddenly his big bike didn’t feel so big anymore. He was pretty thrilled. In an attempt to accommodate the “fit in” factor we locked our bikes at my work and then walked from there. Once at school we found the bike rack (what do you know many other kids ride to school) and when I pointed out that he would be able to ride from the main road along the path to school on his own (there is a lollypop man to assist with the only road crossing) while I went a bit further on to Al’s childcare he was sold.<br />
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The only downside? I was worried about running late to school and so wore my bike-riding outfit to walk Thomas. Ofcourse I ran into my always stylishly and well-presented friend <a href="http://squoy.typepad.com/squibblog/">Elissa</a>, with helmet hair and a sweaty top but not on my bike!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-60034284201657951902010-01-28T08:36:00.003+10:302010-01-28T08:45:41.371+10:30A new year, two new schools, a new blogging startIt has been awhile since I have blogged. There are lots of half formed blogs in my drafts list to remind me of things I want to write about so it is not because I don't want to blog it is more that last year was busy, especially with work and so I didn't find the time.<br /><br />But when I read over my old stuff I am reminded of things that I had forgotten about and my boys are growing so fast (don't they always) that I have decided to try and start again just as much so that I remember these times better.<br /><br />This morning our biggest boy (Thomas) has started school at his new school. We have made a big move - for us - and shifted him in grade 5 to a private school. This is hard for me as I am a fan of public education - but honestly it just wasn't making it with him or us and so after an offer of a place at new school we took it up.<br /><br />So far I am pretty thrilled with new school. The staff are responsive to email and calls, the information is timely, the vibe is friendly and accepting and they have taken our not so traditional family group completely in their stride.<br /><br />I have been worried for Thomas that he might be nervous but I have to say he seems pretty fine. In fact he wishes we would all stop asking him if he was nervous.<br /><br />Grade 5 is big ofcourse and so I was instructed to drop him off at the door - 'don't come in MUM! and don't give me a kiss please!!!' <br /><br />I think I will spend much more of today thinking of him than he will of me!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-76817474714075235912009-03-08T21:20:00.004+10:302009-03-08T21:34:14.863+10:30when to think 3There are about 14 other posts, half written with good thoughts but not complete that fill up the time from then and before then until now. That mark the milestones of Al's and Thomas fabulousness, growth and the laughter that keeps me going. One day i will put them up. One day I will finish my photo albums. Since then and now both Gaye and I have both had promotions,done some house rennovations and spent lots of time sitting on the floor with our youngest making towers from maisy blocks and playing bowls with our oldest on his brand new Wii. Since then and now Thomas has turned 10, started grade 4, finished a season of nippers, grown another foot it seems and learnt how to make a damn good cup of tea. Since then and now Al has learnt to walk backwards, dance holding his own hands in front of him in what we like to call 'bloke' dancing, learnt absolutely no more words, had no more asthma, taught us to all clap our hands and 'ooohhh' at the sight of a fire engine, bus or any other emergency or truck-like thing on wheels, he is now only weeks from turning two. Since then and now Gaye and I have resolved the baby issue, making decisions about the the embryos that are on ice (boarding school as I like to call it) and who goes next. Although we came from very different places we have done this really well I think, without any drama or tension, with open hearts and minds.<br /><br />And so ... here we go againClarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-41337919354316149332009-01-21T08:58:00.002+10:302009-01-21T09:00:00.359+10:30Back to workI have so much to write about our holidays and Christmas and the new parts of my job and have about 11 drafts on the go - but no time to do it until the weekend. So just to say Happy New Year to you and those you love and looking forward to blogging again soonClarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-85159359783556811622008-11-20T12:28:00.003+10:302008-11-20T12:42:23.560+10:30Getting OrganisedI am on another sorting out cycle. These come and go with me and things have sat rather still in the last 12 months or so but suddenly I feel able to move on things that have been sitting in the to do pile – perhaps it is turning 40 or that bizarre ritual of getting things done before Christmas. Maybe it is because we are moving office at work and so organisation rules the day. Most likely it is because I have sold the house I shared with my sister after Gaye and I bought this place and so – although not actually in the money yet! – have a sense of having some actual cash to do the things we have needed to do. Whatever it is in the last month between us we have:<br /><ul> <li>Organised for the builders to finish our deck this week (Gaye)</li> <li>Organised for the new doors to go in this week (Gaye)</li> <li>Organised Gaye’s brother to come and paint in January while we are away (Gaye)</li> <li>Booked our holiday (us)</li> <li>Booked a birthday party (me), made (us) and sent (me) birthday invitations</li> <li>Organised the dog for the holiday (me)</li> <li>Sorted out myself into one bank with all of Thomas’ accounts and mine streamlined – previously I had four! (me)</li> <li>Done my tax (me)<br /></li> <li>Got ourselves all on one Medicare card (us)</li> <li>Put my old super into the new (and much more stable!) super of my current employer (me)</li> <li>Got my work mobile handset fixed and the simcard re done (me)</li> <li>Got the last lot of work signed off (Gaye) and forms in to Council (me)</li> <li>Got the dog final registration organised (me)</li> <li>Done a huge health insurance and Medicare claim (me)</li> <li>Ordered new lounges and chairs (Gaye)</li> <li>Ebayed the old chairs and tv cabinet (me)</li> <li>Ordered new built-ins for the bedrooms, tv cabinet and office cupboard (Gaye)</li> <li>Sent in all the documentation to GET the documentation so I can go on Al’s birth certificate (me)</li> <li>Transferred a whole lot of payments and refunds from our credit cards or individual accounts to our joint account (me)</li> <li>Organised my Dad to get the letter about his illness earlier this year so I can claim on insurance the flights we had to cancel for our delayed holiday (me)</li> <li>Transferred our photos from my work computer to our new computer (me)</li> <li>Sorted through our junk draw (me – about once a month) and our bedroom draws</li> <li>Put the old internal doors up on <a href="http://www.freecycle.org.au">freecycle</a>.</li> </ul>The thing about all these tasks is they have a flow on effect. They all need you to do step one and two before you can actually get to the task. Most frustrating! So I am feeling very virtuous to have done all these tasks. MOST VIRTUOUS!<br /><br />I still have lots to do thou!<br /><ul> <li>veggie garden to fix</li> <li>photo albums to complete</li> <li>send in documentation once I get it to get Al’s birth certificate changed</li> <li>sort out the dumping ground that we call the attic</li> <li>do Gaye's tax<br /></li> <li>ohh and get organised for Christmas…</li> </ul>Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-89403025684365439752008-11-14T12:41:00.004+10:302008-11-14T13:31:20.263+10:30shopping experienceYesterday I was in town for work and I snuck in some clothes shopping.<br /><br />I used to work in town and so visited the shops there regularly when (a) I was bored or (b) had time. But now days a trip 'in to town' is a irregular event and usually means a trip to a place with lots of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">escalators</span> and people, sometimes with a kid in tow and usually by the third floor and the first change room I am over it already.<br /><br />The other sort of clothes <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">shopping</span> I do falls into two <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">categories</span> the stores along the shopping street which is near where I live. There are lots of nice shops along there and a couple of really nice designers that I like. That shopping is usually done when I am desperate for something and they never seem to have my size or the colour that I like. The third kind of shopping is at the outlet stores for decent quality t-shirts etc. Which Gaye usually does in bulk once a season. Last years become the PJ t-shirts and then the gardening/painting gear and then off to cotton heaven.<br /><br />Yesterday however I ventured - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">purposefully</span> - into a designer store in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">QVB</span> building in town. On the weekend Gaye and I had seen some of this designers clothes when we had been away on Sunday and really liked the look of them.<br /><br />It is worth noting at this point that I have struggled - since putting on weight in the last couple of years in particular - lately to 'find my style.' Every now and then I come across something that I like - I have a long wrap vest, a scant, a poncho and some linen things that I really love and so end up with multiple copies of - but it is rare. I like <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">unstructured</span> clothes, with yummy materials, largely in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">monochrome</span> colours, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">linen</span> and natural fabrics. I like things that are easy to look after and not to fussy in terms of ironing.<br /><br />My 40<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span> birthday is coming up - I have declared it the year of the accessory and glamour - and I want something that I feel comfy but also fabulous in to wear for that event. I also want clothes for work and casually that I feel comfy in but also stylish without being overdressed. I am not a heels girl (apart from boots). Really I want to look like Dianne Keaton always does in films...<br /><br />Anyway, I was feeling particularly <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">unstylish</span> yesterday. I had my period my belly ached and my hair went flat. But something in me said 'do it' and so I did. I went upstairs to the cool quiet of the second floor of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">QVB</span> and walked purposely into the store.<br /><br />As soon as I walked in I knew I wouldn't walk out without something - there was the white shirt we had spotted on the weekend but also I felt like I had come to almost 40 and not skinny heaven. It was filled to the brim with clothes and accessories I loved. That were funky and had really clean lines. It was all layers and textures.<br /><br />And then I met Liza. Liza has been working for the designer since he started up she told. She was so nice to me. And not in the nice <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">sucky</span> pressure way assistants often are. In an interested - lets work out what you want way. She asked me what I liked to wear, what <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">occasion</span> it was. She asked me how much of my body I liked to show and then she showed me some things. She was present without being pushy. She 'styled' me a couple of times - push your sleeves up with this or pop that over there etc. She understood my '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">mumsie</span>' complex right away. She told me about the designers <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">desire</span> that women not be having heart attacks when they get dressed in the morning. Sigh ... I had walked into heaven - all be it a rather expensive heaven...and I felt <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">lushed</span>.<br /><br />I rang Gaye and said "oh my god I am in this shop and the clothes are fabulous but so expensive"(we are meant to be saving mind) "Don't hold back" I was told. I walked out with four beautiful things. Each one I love. Two of them I am wearing today and I feel completely fabulous ... very lush and stylish. All the (in my opinion) well dressed women at work have commented on my clothes... I am just dying to get back there...Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-78585988537451733912008-11-10T11:32:00.002+10:302008-11-10T11:41:14.932+10:30five things about Althat are especially cute at the moment.<br /><br />1. He loves trucks, planes and lights and gestures madly with his whole arm in the direction of any that he sees or hears. This is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">accompanied</span> by a "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ooohh</span>" sound and very pursed lips.<br /><br />2. He walks a bit like a penguin. Arms down by his side legs quite straight head moving about<br /><br />3. He can climb up the stairs on the slide at the park, turns himself around and pushes backward until he reaches the top of the slide, holds on, grins and lets go. Thrilled with his achievement and the joy of the slide<br /><br />4. When he had his final jab at the doctor with me last week he didn't cry but gave the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">dr</span> what we call 'the tragic look.' This look is shared with us any number of times a day and involves his eyes half closed looking through the slits at us a frown and a down turned mouth. Any <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">perceived</span> slight (changing his nappy, holding his arm while he gets the jab, saying 'No' about going in the cupboard) is greeted with this particular look. It is so cute some of us like to bring it on!<br /><br />5. He can't say NO yet in words, but he waves his arms back and forward in a sweeping motion to indicate it very very well!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-52806768302184087112008-11-08T20:46:00.004+10:302008-11-10T11:32:34.571+10:30A picnic with friends<div></div>Another weekend, another lovely picnic. This time with dear friends who date back to high school in terms of me knowing them. We were celebrating their 10<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> anniversary of marriage. They brought together many of us who had been at their wedding, these are people I only ever see at get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">togethers</span> with these friends and so plenty to chat and catch up with. We ate cheese and drank champagne and reflected on the changes that the 10 years had brought. Lovely.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tomorrow</span> we are driving to meet up with my family to celebrate my Mum's 65<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span> Birthday. Thomas is so excited to see his cousins and I am so looking forward to showing off Al's new found skills and growth with my Dad especially.Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-80268325011504612852008-11-05T19:39:00.003+10:302008-11-10T11:24:03.973+10:30oh happy day<div></div>I feel <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">ridiculously</span> uplifted by the election of Obama. Ridiculously hopeful. Suddenly the world seems a more friendly and open place. A place for hope, peace and real potential for change. A real first step away from fear. Silly no doubt to put all this on one man's election...<br /><br />And (although this is not a driving issue for me) given he has Rudd like policies when it comes to same sex relationships (ie discrimation is not okay but neither is getting married) it is sometimes a bit dulling to think that this is as far to equality we are likely to get. <br /><br />But still it is hopeful I feel cause lots and lots of people obviously felt the same as me ... time for peace and hope...Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-91180937973391845442008-11-04T19:45:00.004+10:302008-11-10T11:15:53.034+10:30celebrating<div></div>This weekend we have been celebrating Halloween with sugar and costumes including a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Halloween</span> disco at school and a small <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Halloween</span> picnic with friends on Saturday night. We had so many lollies in our house that we threw out the ones leftover from last <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Halloween</span>! (Thomas really is very sensible with sugar food!). The nicest bit was the picnic - hanging out with a few friends in a local park with yummy food. So simple and easy and yet fun.<br /><br />Thomas got one over me by deciding to be a pirate for both celebrations. Which meant buying a sword and a pistol (plastic ones previously not had in our home) he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">admitted</span> after that was why he chose said pirate costume - clever boy!<br /><br />This weekend have been celebrating Gaye's graduation from her Masters. With another - much longer but equally enjoyable picnic with friends in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Centennial</span> Park. Cricket was played, yummy food was shared and champagne drunk - clever Gaye!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-79458525868460192162008-10-21T09:01:00.003+10:302008-11-10T11:07:11.698+10:30Never under-estimateI should know this by now. I have been "managing" a hormone imbalance brought on by a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pituitary</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">tumour</span> for the last 15 years. I say "<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">managing</span>" because I am actually not that good at <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">managing</span> it. I tend to ignore it until it all gets so bad I can't ignore it anymore.<br /><br />Anyway I finally did something about it -again- and what do you know the world seems a much better place!Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-60223718000623233392008-10-20T16:07:00.003+10:302008-11-10T11:07:43.581+10:30Spy Wizard<div></div>Thomas has a problem. He can’t chose on which career to take up. Spy or wizard (or lifeguard or tri-athlete) What I really enjoy about this is he is nine (and the size of a 12 year old) but he is still fully engaged in imaginative play involving him and sometimes-small toys…<br /><br />The thing is spies have gadgets…<br /><br />He has been into all things spy for sometime now. He especially enjoys stories about kids who become spies and ‘save the day.’ He has been reading a series of books about a boy called Z@c Power who has joined a spy agency. In the books Zac’s code name is ‘Agent Rock Star’ and the boss is ‘Agent Big Boss’. Z@c’s brother makes the gadgets (a bit like Q in the Bond movies). The most recent series of the books (mega missions!!!) came with Z@c Power gadgets attached to carabinas – a small compass, torch and magnifying glass. Last weekend Thomas and his friend who was over to play packed up these and other spy gadgets and went ‘spying’ writing notes about what they saw and heard. They had a great time.<br /><br />Anyway, clearly Thomas has been talking all things spy with his Dad too because last night at the dinner table he suddenly turned to me and said ‘hey Mum did you know that my Dad’s dad used to be the boss of the spies?<br /><br />I said I did know that and that I thought that perhaps his Dad and I had been to his office once. He hammered me with questions ‘were there gadgets in his office?’ ‘how did he become the big boss?’ ’did you see any spies?’ ‘was there a room to make gadgets?’ ‘did he have a code name?’ ‘did he have guards like Mr How@rd?<br /><br />My lack of knowledge did not impress him all that much (particularly my comment about working hard to become the big boss of something). But in the end he decided that his grandfather would have his gadgets hidden from (the likes of) us anyway, probably in an underground room.<br /><br />Then again wizards have magic…<br /><br />When he is not being a spy he is being a wizard. A couple of weeks ago when we were walking his dog he went and sat in a tree in the park (while I actually walked the dog) and he pulled out all of his ‘wizard stuff’ from his ever present small yellow and blue bag which he carries everywhere these days with whatever is important to him of the moment. After he had sat in his tree and played for awhile he and I walked around to the shops to pick up a few items. The conversation went like this “Mum you don’t believe in wizards do you?” “Sure I do honey” "No mum you don’t but that is okay because people who can’t be wizards just don’t know about it. Do you think you would be happy if I were a wizard when I grow up?”Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23261144.post-67527490970641179082008-10-17T10:46:00.007+10:302008-10-17T17:42:10.419+10:30It must be the spring before I turn 40 because<ul><li>we are eating our dinner out on the deck most nights - thou we do eat our dinner at a kid friendly time (we have always been a one meal eat all together type family rather than the kids meal followed by the grown-up meal type of family); </li><li>my washing line is full of Al's all-in-one short and top <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">thingos</span></span></span> instead of little cords & cardigans;</li><li>soccer season is over so our Saturday mornings are free of driving around this crazy city at peak weekend time finding remote soccer fields (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">shhh</span> </span>as I say a small hooray at that, thou I will miss the weekly catch-up with the team and enjoy watching the kids play);</li><li>"nippers" season has started (and Thomas was keen to do it again for the first time in a number of years) and so our Sunday mornings now involve a trip to the beach - which is completely gorgeous;</li><li>my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">oregano</span> is 30 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">cms</span></span></span> high, the newly planted basil is about 20 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">cms</span></span></span> high, the tomatoes and the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">passion fruit</span> are flowering and if half the limes and lemons that are budding come out we will be able to supply all our friends with fresh lemon for their summer g&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">t's</span></span></span>;</li><li>we have booked our summer holiday - four whole weeks off work for me and more than two whole weeks for us all up north in a cabin near a beach and a pool and a low-key-but-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">groovy-</span></span></span>enough-to-have-good-coffee small town;</li><li>the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">jacaranda</span> are flowering outside my window at work. A view I will miss <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ALOT</span></span></span> when I move to my new building in two weeks;</li><li>Thomas has started swimming lessons again - his face when they told him he had 'finished learn-to-swim' and was 'ready for squad' was priceless and reminded me what a little boy he still is in some ways</li><li>we are doing the picnic regularly as a socialising event. In the next few weeks we have a <em>halloween picnic</em> (Thomas) , a <em>masters attainment celebration picnic</em> (for Gaye and our friend Gary who both finished their masters this year) and a <em>10<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span></span></span> wedding anniversary picnic</em> (for two dear friends) planned;</li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">and that last one sort of ties into the next one cause at that wedding I was lovely and pregnant with Thomas and right now </span></span>I am seriously thinking of having another baby. </li></ul>Clarehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03308332880810481457noreply@blogger.com1