EIGHT IS ENOUGH

2008-05-26T21:43:00.009+10:00

MY SPECIAL VISITOR

Im not the best for words but here it goes, I met Megan when I was around 5 and Megan would have been 3 on the slopes of our driveways in Viewbank.

Here are a few things we used to get up to -

Both Megan and I had swimming pools but mine was unfortunaly always cold being in the shade covered by trees and a carport. We always used to run into my pool then run into Megan's pool to get warm (which was like a hot bath) and we used do the best whirley pools.

(I do have a photo of those lovely peacock bathers Megan but thought hmmm you would kill me..lol)

Collecting Alliminum cans from being at the footy with mum and dad all day, Megan and I used to sit out the front and hammer like 100's of cans to nothing with the occational sand thrown into some to make them a little heavier when it came to cashing them in for cash.

Plenty of sleepovers, rollerskating and the best Tennis as we got older. We got coached then of to competitive tennis where we played together till Megan moved to Darwin which didnt stop us being friends.

Here are a few photos .

Here is Megan posing for the camera

We definately had our differences ...

Carlton supporter (afl football)

Megan (Left) and I

Barracking for the best team around Richmond naturally (afl football)

My 2 bestfriends growing up Donna (middle) and Megan (Right) and yours truly on the Left.

Megan's 21st Party

In 2006 was time to catch up again, Flew up to Darwin where we had a lovely day at the races.

2008 Megan came to Melbourne with her daughters Brittany & Bailey.

Liam, Brittany & Bailey about to enjoy a day at the Melbourne Zoo.

Megan and I enjoying a few drinks and a catch up. (2008).

Thirty-four years on and friendship still strong as ever

Your the Best Megan thankyou for being a true friend.

XOXOXOXOXOXO

A DAY AT GEELONG WATER PARK

2007-12-20T16:28:00.000+11:00

WAS PLENTY TO DO, WAS A LOVELY DAY,

THAT'S KARA GOING UP THE STAIRS IN PINK

THE PIRATE HEAD IS UP THE TOP FILLING WITH WATER

THERE IT GOES, "WATCH OUT BELOW"

EVERYONE GET'S DRENCHED

TIMOTHY AND KARA ENJOYING A RIDE

OHH MYY, LIAM WITH THE CONTROL ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

THATS YOURS TRULY WITH KARA AND LIAM, KARA HAD THE CONTROLS TOOK ABOUT 20 MINUTES TO GET BACK TO THE SHORE

COLIN AND TIM HAVING A PADDLE

MERRY XMAS

2007-12-20T16:20:00.000+11:00

KARA DANCE CONCERT 2007

2007-12-20T15:54:00.000+11:00

KARA RECEIVED THE MOST IMPROVED AWARD ON THE NIGHT

AS YOU CAN SEE SHE HATED GETTING HER PHOTO'S TAKEN..LOL

A DAY AT SKATING

2007-12-20T14:30:00.000+11:00

Liam - I can do this, this is easy, oh no over he goes

Maybe not it's not that easy, off goes the skates

Kara trying to get her balance

This is easy, and up-grades to roller blades

Timothy ready...set...go

YARRAWONGA SHOW

2007-10-20T12:50:00.000+10:00

From Left - Liam, Kara & Timothy

Liam was very unsure of these Men, but Tim and Kara

wrapped to have there photo taken with these Firemen

The Kids got to go in the Fire Engine and press many buttons,

they had things flashing, beeping and not to forget the siren's.

Nanny enjoying all the shows and exhibits that were available.

What's a county show without animals,

Liam holding a little Puppy and dad wouldnt let him take him home.

(there was a notice outside the puppies free to a good home)

What a party pooper Dad!!

Timothy loved the animal exhibit,

Baby Crocodiles, Lizards,

Snakes, Turtles.

Bumper Cars - Timothy and Kara having a ball

bumping into anything and everybody.

The Jumping Castle. Tim, Kara & Liam being left behind at the bottom.

Colin and the Kids went up for a ride in a helicopter,

myself and nanny kept our feet firmly on the ground.

All Buckled in and ear muffs on.

According to Dad they were very nervous didnt move

or talk through the whole flight.

GRAND FINAL DAY

2007-10-13T14:50:00.000+10:00

"GO CATS"

Was a great day, plenty of food, alcohol (naturally) and most of all good company, for those who were unable to make it, always next year. :)

1st prize went to Marc

and to top it of on the day he managed to

pick the inhouse bet (winner and the Margin).

2nd prize went to Christine

The Girls CournerThe Boys Courner plus Leeanne & StephThe Young(er) ones :)The Kids had a ball too.

2007-09-17T20:19:00.000+10:00

KARA'S DAY AT BUZY KIDZ

So much to do so little time to do it in!!!

A Play inside with friends in and out tunnels,

through ball pits, jumping castles.

Time for outside. Grab a helmet and bike and start peddling.

Great place for the kids to learn a bit of road sense as you can see it the pictures there are traffic lights, round-a-bouts, give way signs and railway tracks.

Time to return that bike Kara, time to go home.

"YEAH RIGHT MUM...
COME AND GET ME"

Liam's 4th Birthday

2007-08-24T23:00:00.000+10:00

Liam's 4th Birthday Party at Playdays

As you can see he was having a ball or two or three!!

Time for some party food

(little boys, party pies, sausage rolls, fairy bread, chicken nuggets)

A few games, pass the parcel was one of them.

Guess who likes Icecream Cake

More !!!!!!!

2007-07-17T20:19:00.000+10:00

A day at the snow

Lake Mountain

Alarm goes off at 6am Sunday "sigh just another 20 minutes I say" next minute blankets were thrown off (now I no khow how the kids feel when i do it to them)

Leaving Melbourne was 5c (41F) was expecting a top temp of 12c (52F) for the day.

First stop petrol, followed by a debate on the direction we were going.. I lost, if we went my way we were heading to the beach dont think we would have found much snow there..lol

2nd stop - Breafast at MacDonalds

3rd stop - Buy fresh rolls for lunch (salad and meat prepared the night before)

**********

Fourth Stop - Marysville last town you go through till you start climbing the mountain

The kids getting all decked out in there Waterproof Snow gear.

Getting Closer - temp had dropped to 2c (36F) was beautiful road side views couldnt see much past there as it was very foggy as you can see in the photo.

Then we Arrive Temp has dropped to -1.5c (27F), It was snowing when we arrived which i was very pleased to see as I've never experienced it. The kids had a great day as did Colin & I.

Was hard work walking up the slopes, was a great day but was glad when we were in th car with the heaters on.

Cool Slideshows!

SCHOOL DAYS

2007-07-12T14:55:00.000+10:00

What do you Remember?

I went to school 1974 - 1986 , Let me see first things first would have to be school holidays.

(that was very important when we were kids)

There were 3 terms a year and had 3 lots of major holidays.

Christmas (6 weeks)

end of Term 1 (2 weeks)

end of Term 2 (2 weeks)

end of term 3 was xmas holidays

A few public holidays plus easter and the occational Curricum day.

Punishment - Detention after school
(phew no straps and rulers in my days thank goodness)
My sisters and brother would have had a sore backside but not me ...hehehe

Normal subjects - English, Maths, Geography, History, Libarary, Woodworks, Art.

Reports were easy to read with a simple A B C D E and F

The Fun musicals, school dances and Camps. Looked forward to Clean up days so can come to school out-of-uniform.

Yep the good old days our parents told us, but we knew better couldnt wait to see the back of school. (how wrong were we)

All those things we swore as kids we wouldn't do to our children, I have used all that plus some on my kids..LOL

-----------------------------

2007

School Holidays

4 sets of holidays - xmas, term 1, 2 & 3 then 4th Term and the normal easter and public school holidays.

"What The" Pupil Free day, Report Writing days, curriculm days, interview days + more..

Report - Dont go there (need to go back to school to understand them).

EMILY'S DEBUT

2007-05-28T14:43:00.000+10:00

My niece Emily made her debut, my son Haden was her partner.

Here are a few photo's

Limo arrive's to pick up Emily & Haden

Emily looked gorgeous,

and Haden looked very Handsome.

My Husband Colin & Myself with the kids

Mum, Me, My Brother Gary & My Sister Donna

Emily you looked beautiful!!!!!!!!!

HOME REMEDIES

2007-04-13T20:19:00.000+10:00

A few home remedies that may come in handy by personal favourite would have to be the mouse trap.. what is yours???

***************

If you are chocking on an ice cube, dont panic.

Simply pour a cup of boiling water down your

throat and presto the blockage will be removed

***************

Clumsy? Avoid cutting yourself while slicing

vegetables by geting someone else to hold

them while you chop away.

***************

Avoid arguments with your wife about lifting

the toilet seat by simply using the sink.

***************

For high blood pressure suffers, simply cut

yourself and bleed for a few minutes,

thus reducint the pressure in your veins. Remember

to use a timer.

***************

A moustetrap, places on top of your alarm clock, will

prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep

after you hit the snooze button.

***************

If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives,

then you will be afraid to cough.

***************

Have a bad toothache? Smash your thumb with a hammer

and you will forget all about the toothache.

***************

Sometimes, we just need to remember what the rules of

life really are:

You only need two tools - WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it

doesnt move and should use the WD-40, If it shouldn't

move and does, use the duct tape.

***************

Remember, Everyone seems normal until you get to know

them. So be brief with people

***************

Never pass up an opputunity to go to the bathroom

HAPPY EASTER

2007-04-12T22:06:00.000+10:00

Hope the Easter Bunny came to all, now its time to work of those calories.

(think the calories went straight to my thighs..lol)

Enjoyed time with my family at Yarrawonga the weather was superb.

With the solar system on the pool, the kids didnt waste anytime getting in.

The Kids enjoyed there chocolate breakfast, then of to the Sunday markets.

(btw mum, thx for that roudy toy gun, I will bring it up next time we visit..lol)

Please welcome a new blogger to our world, please drop a line and say hi.

Marc & Kristy's Chapter

KARATE KID

2007-03-18T14:47:00.000+11:00

Timothy recently started karate and loves it.

The new saying " I will tell your sensai (instructor)"

to get him to do things.....lol

He focus's very well in class.

GIRLS WEEKEND AWAY

2007-03-05T13:42:00.000+11:00

DAYLESFORD GET-AWAY

Friday could not have come quicker, pick up the girls and off we headed.

Daylesford is approx one and harf hours away but on the way it took 3hours :-

1.. toilet stop

2.. Dinner / toilet stop

3.. Booze Stop

4.. Another toilet stop

5.. ANOTHER toilet stop

6.. FINALLY ARRIVE

Firstly.. Our Survival Kit.

THE WEEKEND

What is a girls weekend with out plenty of shopping, giggle's laughing and of course drinking.

Saturday - we all had a lovely body massage and facial, we were told to drink lots of water after the facial I think we all failed that instruction.

Sunday - Taking it a bit easy, breakfast, shopping and there was a local market on then off to a chocolate factory (yes back on diet on monday). Then was time to head home which was a quiter trip than the one up and yes that took only one and half hours to get home not three.

Here is a photo of the group

from left Kristy, Midge, Kerry, Jenny, Chris, Jo (me) & Nadene

A JUDGE AT A CURRY COOK-OFF

2007-02-25T15:51:00.000+11:00

The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened tobe standing there at the judge's table asking directions to the beerwagon when the call came. I was assured by the other two judges (coupleof localIndians) that the curry wouldn't be all that spicy, and besides, theytold me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted."Here are the scorecards from the event

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CURRY # 1

Manoj's Maniac Mobster Monster Curry

JUDGE ONE: A little too heavy on tomato. Amusing kick.

JUDGE TWO: Nice, smooth tomato flavour. Very mild.

FRANK: Holy sh*t, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove driedpaint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames out. Ihope that's the worst one. These Indian fellows are crazy.

****************************

CURRY # 2

Applesamy's AfterburnerCurry

JUDGE ONE: Smoky, with a hint of pork. Slight Jalapeno tang.

JUDGE TWO: Exciting BBQ flavour, needs more peppers to be takenseriously.

FRANK: Keep this out of reach of children! I'm not sure what I amsupposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wantedto give me the Heimlich manoeuvre. They had to rush in more beer whenthey saw the look on my face.

****************************

CURRY# 3

Farouk's Famous Burn Down the Barn Curry

JUDGE ONE: Excellent firehouse curry! Great kick. Needs more beans.

JUDGE TWO: A beanless curry, a bit salty, good use of red peppers.

FRANK: Call Colesburg, I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels likeI have been snorting Domestos. Everyone knows the routine by now, got memore beer before I ignited. Barmaid pounded me on the back; now mybackbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting sh*t-faced fromall the beer.

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CURRY # 4

Barbu's Black Magic

JUDGE ONE: Black bean curry with almost no spice. Disappointing.

JUDGE TWO: Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish orother mild foods, not much of a curry.

FRANK: I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable totaste it, is it possible to burn-out taste buds? Savathree, the barmaid,was standing behind me with fresh refills; that 300 lb. bitch isstarting to look HOT, just like this nuclear waste I'm eating. Is curryan aphrodisiac?

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Curry # 5

Laveshnee's Legal Lip Remover

JUDGE ONE: Meaty, strong curry. Cayenne peppers freshly ground, addingconsiderable kick. Very impressive.

JUDGE TWO: Curry using shredded beef; could use more tomato. Must admitthe cayenne peppers make a strong statement.

FRANK: My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my forehead and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted and four people behind me neededhospital treatment. The contestant seemed offended when I told her thather curry had given me brain damage. Savathree saved my tongue frombleeding by pouring beer directly on it from a pitcher. I wonder if I'mburning my lips off? It really pisses me off that the other judges askedme to stop screaming.

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CURRY # 6

Vera's Very Vegetarian Variety

JUDGE ONE: Thin yet bold vegetarian variety curry. Good balance of spiceand peppers

JUDGE TWO: The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, and garlic.Superb.

FRANK: My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous,sulphuric flames. I sh*t myself when I farted and I'm worried it willeat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me exceptthat sl*t Savathree; she must be kinkier than I thought. Can't feel mylips anymore. I need to wipe my ass with a snow cone!

***********************

CURRY # 7

Sugash's Screaming Sensation Curry

JUDGE ONE: A mediocre curry with too much reliance on canned peppers.

JUDGE TWO: Ho Hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can ofcurry peppers at the last moment. I should note that I am worried aboutJudge Number 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursinguncontrollably.

FRANK: You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I couldn'tfeel a damn thing. I've lost the sight in one eye, and the world soundslike it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with curry whichslid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava-like sh*t tomatch my damn shirt. At least during the autopsy they'll know whatkilled me. I've decided to stop breathing, it's too painful. Screw it,I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it inthrough the 4 inch hole in my stomach.

************************

CURRY # 8

Hansraj's Mount Saint Curry

JUDGE ONE: A perfect ending, this is a nice blend curry, safe for all,not too bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.

JUDGE TWO: This final entry is a good, balanced curry, neither mild norhot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge Number 3 passedout, fell over and pulled the curry pot down on top of himself. Not sureif he's going to make it. Poor Yank, wonder how he'd have reacted to areally hot curry?

FRANK: --------------(editor's note: Judge #3 was unable to report)

My Famous Words

2007-02-18T19:46:00.000+11:00

What can I say..

"IF I CAN DO IT, ANYONE CAN"

(carport erected and painted by yours truly.. to existing garage)

***************************

CAKE OR BED

A HUSBAND IS AT HOME WATCHING A FOOTBALL GAME WHEN HIS WIFE INTERRUPTS...HONEY, COULD YOU FIX THE LIGHT IN THE HALLWAY?

IT'S BEEN FLICKERING FOR WEEKS NOW. HE LOOKS AT HER AND SAYS ANGRILY

FIX THE LIGHT, NOW? DOES IT LOOK LIKE I HAVE A G.E. LOGO PRINTED ON MY FOREHEAD? I DON'T THINK SO!

THE WIFE ASKS, WELL THEN, COULD YOU FIX THE FRIDGE DOOR?

IT WON'T CLOSE RIGHT.TO WHICH HE REPLIED,

FIX THE FRIDGE DOOR? DOES IT LOOK LIKE I HAVE WESTINGHOUSE WRITTEN ON MY FOREHEAD? I DON'T THINK SO.

FINE, SHE SAYS THEN YOU COULD AT LEAST FIX THE STEPS TO THE FRONT DOOR? THEY'RE ABOUT TO BREAK.

I'M NOT A DAMN CARPENTER AND I DON'T WANT TO FIX STEPS, HE SAYS. DOES IT LOOK LIKE I HAVE ACE HARDWARE WRITTEN ON MY FOREHEAD? I DON'T THINK SO.

I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU. I'M GOING TO THE BAR!!! SO HE GOES TO THE BAR AND DRINKS FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS. HE STARTS TO FEEL GUILTY ABOUT HOW HE TREATED HIS WIFE, AND DECIDES TO GO HOME AND HELP OUT.

AS HE WALKS INTO THE HOUSE HE NOTICES THE STEPS ARE ALREADY FIXED.

AS HE ENTERS THE HOUSE, HE SEES THE HALL LIGHT IS WORKING.

AS HE GOES TO GET A BEER, HE NOTICES THE FRIDGE DOOR IS FIXED.

HONEY, HE ASKS, HOW'D ALL THIS GET FIXED? SHE SAID, WELL, WHEN YOU LEFT I SAT OUTSIDE AND CRIED. JUST THEN A NICE YOUNG MAN ASKED ME WHAT WAS WRONG, AND I TOLD HIM.

HE OFFERED TO DO ALL THE REPAIRS, AND ALL I HAD TO DO WAS EITHER GO TO BED WITH HIM OR BAKE A CAKE.

HE SAID, SO WHAT KIND OF CAKE DID YOU BAKE HIM?

*
*
*
*
*

SHE REPLIED, HELLOOOOO.......DO YOU SEE BETTY CROCKER WRITTEN ON MY FOREHEAD? I DON'T THINK SO!

A QUICK JOKE

2007-02-16T12:00:00.000+11:00

All the organs of the body were having a meeting, trying to decide who was the one in charge.

"I should be in charge," said the brain, "Because I run all the body's systems, so without me nothing would happen."

"I should be in charge," said the blood , "Because I circulate oxygen all over so without me you'd all waste away."

"I should be in charge," said the stomach," Because I process food and give all of you energy."

"I should be in charge," said the legs, "because I carry the body wherever it needs to go."

"I should be in charge," said the eyes, "Because I allow the body to see where it goes."

"I should be in charge," said the rectum, "Because I'm responsible for waste removal."

All the other body parts laughed at the rectum And insulted him, so in a huff, he shut down tight. Within a few days, the brain had a terrible headache, the stomach was bloated, the legs got wobbly, the eyes got watery, and the blood was toxic. They all decided that the rectum should be the boss..

The Moral of the story? The a** hole is usually in charge

KARA'S 5TH BIRTHDAY

2007-02-10T16:36:00.000+11:00

Making cup cakes for Kara to take to school.

The Best Part licking the bowl!!!

Kara opening some of her pressies

she loves beanie bears, thanks Nanny

Kara & her friend Molly at McDonalds

Kara Choose's Mac's, surprise suprise

Night time spent with family and close friends

"Look mum, look how clever I am "!!!!! (lol)

Back to School

2007-02-04T21:43:00.000+11:00

Timothy settled in quite well, he was happy too see

his friends.

Timothy started Grade 2

Watch out Findon Primary here comes Kara...LoL

Kara starting prep - was very excited to start her first day at School

she looked beautiful, so little but how quick they grow.

Here is my little man Liam, of to 3 year old Kinder

He starts this week but he had to get

dressed into his uniform like his big brother and sister.

Will update on Wednesday, not sure who will be in tears him or me.. LOL

SCALES

2007-01-28T13:48:00.000+11:00

************************

I can't believe I was doing it wrong all these years.

We must get the word out.

HOME SWEET HOME

2007-01-21T15:40:00.000+11:00

Before heading home, we took the kids down the waterslide

Now home, unpacking, re-stocking the fridge and washing of course, been very busy since we have been back, getting ready for school... 10 DAYS , but who is counting.

STRAWBERRY FARM

2007-01-13T16:07:00.000+11:00

STRAWBERRIES GALORE

Today, we headed to Cobram, Victoria to the strawberry farm. Here are a few photos and recipe's. To see more picture go to mum's site.

STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE

6 Large Strawberries

6 oz of Strawberry yoghurt, frozen.

4oz of Lemonade.

1 teaspoon of sugar.

Place all of the ingredients together in a blender and blend throughly

SIMPLE STRAWBERRY PIE

Nine-inch pie shell, baked.

4 cups of Strawberries.

1 cup of water.

1 cup of sugar

3 tablespoons of cornstarch.

2 tablespoons of white corn syrup.

Boil together the water, sugar, cornstarch and white corn syrup.

Cook until the mixture begins to thicken.

Allow to cool.

Once cooled, add strawberries and our into the baked pie shell.

Chill then serve.

STRAWBERRY JAM

500G strawberries

juice of 1 lemon

2 cups of sugar

Microwave Method

Cut strawberries in half, removing leafy ends and place into a microwave safe bowl, covering

with cling wrap. Pierce and cook on high for 4 min, Mash strawberries into a pulp. Add lemon

juice, sugar and stir well . Cook on high (uncovered) for 20 mins, stirring now and again. if the

mixture looks like boiling over, reduce to a medium heat. let stand for 5 min. . Stir and pour into

hot, sterilized jars. When cool, seal and label.

STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI (best for last)

2 oz of frozen strawberries in syrup.

1 oz of rum.1 oz of lime juice.

½ oz of strawberry liqueur.

¾ teaspoon of sugar.

2 strawberries.

1 orange slice.

Cracked ice.

Fill a mixing glass with cracked ice.Add the frozen strawberries,

rum, lime juice, strawberry liqueur and sugar.

Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with orange slice.

MOVEMBER 2

2007-01-12T14:06:00.000+11:00

UPDATE ON MOVEMBER

Christopher did Movember back in November please click on the link to get previous pictures of how Movember works.

Well done Chris, Chris and is group of friends managed to raise $565 Au. just for growing a Mo.

Ohh my gosh Christopher some fun shots here.

"Chopper each your heart out"!!!!

"Only you Christopher"

YARRAWONGA

2007-01-05T10:10:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone, having a great time at mum's with all the family being here. The kids and big kids have had a ball in the pool, must say the pool is a must up here in the hot summer days.

Kara, Mum,Nathan,Liam & Tim

Welllll what can I say about New Year's Eve... you can see for yourself we had a great time.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2006-12-26T21:20:00.000+11:00

I hope everyone had a fantastic Christmas, We had a great morning, quite afternoon, my hubby had to work but was home by 4pm so not to bad then had visitors over in the evening.

The kids were up at 8am and took approximately 15 min to rip into the presents (Santa spoilt them once again).

Will be my last post for a few weeks, we are heading up to mum's and having a family re-union which im very much looking forward to.

Im sure we will have a blast, and will be sure to take plenty of photo's.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

10 WORST GIFTS TO BUY WOMEN

2006-12-19T16:42:00.000+11:00

1. Never give a woman any kind of household appliance or something that is going to make "housework" easier. For instance, a blender, a toaster, a new vacuum, one of those mops they advertise on tv that does everything but suck the life out of you, anything in a informercial. One allowed choice is a new washing machine with a turbo spin cycle. (Makes laundry day go by pretty fast when you can at least sit on it during spin-dry and end up smiling the rest of the day.)

2. Any bulk cleaning supplies, "honey, I got you that large box of Tide you have been wanting." "This Windex should last you a while." "I got a good deal on the industrial strength toilet bowl cleaner." All I can say is, be prepared to run. I have faith that if you would have at least stopped and thought about what would be a much more intimate gift, you would have had the sense to spring for the $5 Chia Pet you were eyeing in Kmart.

3. Any sharp objects made by Ronco which slices or dices, or a set of ginsu knives. These may one day be used as a weapon.

4. Do not buy gifts for yourself and pretend they are for her. "Honey, I'm sure you'll get a lot of use out of the new drill I bought you." By then she will have put it to good use by drilling a quarter inch hole into the side of your skull for even thinking she would accept such a gift. After a gift like this, you probably won't be around for NEXT Christmas.

5. Any lingerie made of flannel, such as a pair of feet pajamas with a trap door in back. A Little Mermaid or Barney cartoon character nightgown. It gives her the idea that you do not consider her the beautiful woman that she is. Take out that wallet and buy her something sexy from Victoria Secret (just like you did for your mistress or other girlfriend).

6. No name perfume which costs you $1.99, such as Eu de Toilet, which actually smells like the bathroom, moldy fruit, or your dirty socks. If you are going to buy her perfume, spring for the brand names.

7. Any type of cubic zirconia jewelry you see on the Home Shopping Network. It will be quite embarrassing when she is showing off that fabulous diamond to her friends and tries to cut glass with it. (We actually test them you know.) Also, now would not be a good time to buy her that set of diamond nipple clamps you always wanted to, you know how we like to show off our jewelry and it could get embarrassing at the New Year's party when she decides to show them off to your buddies.

8. Please do not buy her clothes because you think for one minute you have good taste in woman's clothing. Well, perhaps you might if you are a transvestite, but all in all, believe me, she'll smile and say its beautiful while choking back tears and mumbling under her breath, "were the hell would I ever wear this outfit without being arrested for bad taste?" An additional hint, plaids do not go with stripes (even though you think your golfing outfit looks just fine). Its a known fact to the rest of the world that that is a taboo. In the Northeast, thats like wearing white after Labor Day.

9. Do not give her a gift certificate to Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers. Most men would know better, especially the ones who have learned the correct response to "do these pants make me look fat." If you are one of the poor souls who still doesn't get it and purchased a gift like this, be prepared for the silent treatment for a month. (Although that may be something you would actually look forward to.) A better alternative would be hiring a Chippendale dancer as a personal trainer to get her motivated into getting fit.

10. Last but not least, never buy a woman anti-wrinkle cream, or a book on "How not to be Nasty Sunday through Saturday." These are not considered gifts, they are considered reasons for seriously injuring the person who bought it and just may stand up in court of law.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2006-12-01T14:00:00.000+11:00

Well its the 1st December the day where we put up our christmas tree & decorations, the kids have a ball whilst mum and dad get frustrated cause everything is getting more tangled up by the minute.
I hope that everyone has a fantastic Christmas "MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE"

THIS IS A GOT'CHA CALL

2006-11-25T13:51:00.000+11:00

Haden is a prankster that tries to get us with his telephone pranks all the time, think he got that from his big brother Christopher who used to do it all the time.

It was time to get Haden back and it went something like this -

Haden works at Dominoes part time (Pizza Shop in Melbourne, Australia, & mum rings up pretending to order a pizza in a chinese lingo. (must admit thought I was good)..lol

Ring Ring

Haden - "Hello, this is Haden from Dominoes Pizza can I take your order please"

Mum - "ello , dis a peeeza s'op"

Haden - "yes, can I take your order"

Mum - "ya, would like peeeeza with eeeez on it and lots of things"

Haden - "One with the lot, Supreme"

Mum - " Ya, YA"

Mum - "one for da kidz, eeeez.. eeeeez lot of eeeeez and herbs

Haden - "that would be a margaritta"

Mum - "ya ya"

Haden - "Is that pick up for delivery"

Mum - "delivery.. definately delivery"

Haden - "what suburb"

Mum - "CHINAAAAAAAAAAAAA"

Haden - "ohhhhhhhhhhh mum"

THIS IS A GOT'CHA CALL FROM MUM.... LMAO

After the phone call he told me he knew it was me all along... like NOT

CHRISTOPHER IN LONDON

2006-11-22T13:00:00.000+11:00

Christopher went on a Contiki tour of Europe and was going to stay in London with his mates for 6 months, now that was May 2004.
Chris and his sister Alicia got together with a great surprise and flew Chris home for christmas 2005. Well the greeting he got was out of this world. Chris unfortunately only stayed approx 2 weeks and had to fly back.

Whilst being in London he has met a lovely lady named Jenny and decided to stay longer.. chris has manage to visit France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Amsterdam, Canary Islands, Greek Islands, Sweden, USA, Mexico, Australia (lol) just to name a few.

He has managed to get a great job doing recruitment for a company called PJ Locums.

Our latest update Chris and Jenny headed to Copenhagen, Jenny's summer house is in a place called Vejbystrand (bottom of Sweden). Sweden and Denmark are very close and its only a 20 minute ferry ride across, so off the went to to check it out.
(Princess Mary & Prince Fredderick well this is their palace)

KARA'S DEBUT CONCERT

2006-11-14T20:21:00.000+11:00

THE LEAD UP..... Tuesday is the day we would head to dancing, at first I think she would rather have played with the boys outside with the footy than do her dancing, but never the less we kept going week after week. Then she started seeing the costumes that she was to wear (which I had to take them off a very teary Kara as she wanted to take them home), then she realised that she was going to be on stage like her big brother's school concert. Once it got closer we had to start doing the countdown she was soooo excited.

The Day has arrived ....very excited Kara runs to greet Linda. (Linda is a very close friend who did Kara's make-up and hair) as her daughter Rylie was also in the same concert. Im not sure who was more nervous me or Kara....lol

UP GOES THE HAIR

ON GOES THE MAKE-UP AND LIPSTICK

FIRST SHE DANCED TO "VOODOO CHILD"

SECOND SHE DANCED TO "BETTER THE DEVIL YOU KNOW".

My little girl is growing up, I was so proud to see her up there doing her dances I would be fibbing if I said I didnt have the tissues out.

Kara was very excited to see everyone out in the audience Nanny, Gwen, Alicia, Christine, Emily, Linda and mummy of course went and seen the Friday performance, and Daddy, Haden, Matt & Jorgia went on the Monday. Nanny had to drive 3 hrs to come see Kara dance. (Thx mum that meant alot to me and specially Kara).

We arrive home close to midnight, clean the make-up off and put her to bed, I think she was asleep before I walked out the room, sure is a long late night for the little ones and to think she had to do it again on the Monday night.

TILL NEXT YEAR "THE END"

MOVEMBER

2006-11-12T20:24:00.000+11:00

Movember is changing the face of Men's Health, Movember is a charity event held during the month of November each year.

At the start of Movember guys register with a clean shaven face then have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache and along the way raise as much money and awareness about male health issues as possible.

Chris has raised $165 AU so far

You can sponsor Chris Angus by visiting http://www.movember.com.au/uk/home/

Fund raised in the UK will be donated to either the Australian or New Zealand Prostate Cancer Foundation, depending on your own preferences.

DAY ONE :

Clean shaven, hoping it would last as long as possible

DAY 6 :

A Slight Shadow, no signs of ginger coming through.

Day 10:

It's Happeneing - As dredded, the ginger is starting to appear.

It's not that prominant in the photos but it glistens in the sun...thanks Dad

Melbourne Cup Day

2006-11-07T20:33:00.000+11:00

Spit roast and dressed in our best or worst, goes without say who our worst dresser was.. who didnt have to look to hard in his wardrobe.

All the girls looked lovely with there hat or feathers in their hair. (Megan I can't believe I got to wear my feathers again from the races in Darwin).

We had instore random betting on the horses by pulling out horse numbers out of a bag (pot luck) , must say we cleaned up. (sorry guys)

MIDGE THE BOOKIE

THE GANG

THE KIDS HAD A BALL TOO

NOW A SPECIAL TRIBUTE FOR GARY ..

Gary without a say you are a horder.. who has happy pants

and a shirt from the 1980's in there wardrobe.

CAR WASH

2006-10-28T15:58:00.000+10:00

SORRY I HAVEN'T POSTED FOR AWHILE, MY CAR

NEEDED WASHING AGAIN.

I WENT TO THE CAR WASH AND I HAD TO HAVE

THEM RE-WASH THE CAR THREE TIMES.. THEY

KEPT MISSING SPOTS... SO IF YOU DONT HEAR

FROM ME FOR A WEEK OR SO YOU'LL KNOW

WHERE I'M AT.

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A FEW FUNNY JOKES

2006-10-19T17:27:00.000+10:00

As An airplane is about to crash, a female passenger jumps up frantically and annouces, "If I'm

going to die, I want to die feeling like a woman".

She removes all her clothing and asks, "Is there someone on the plane who is man enough to make me feel like a woman?"

A man stands up, removes his shirt and says , "Here iron this!".

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The newlyweds are in their honeymoon room and the groom decides to let the bride know where she stands right from the start of the marriage.
He proceeds to take off his trousers and throw them at her. He says, "Put those on."
The bride replies, "I can't wear your trousers."
He replies, "And don't forget that! I will always wear the pants in the family!"
The bride takes off her knickers and throws them at him with the same request, "Try those on!"
He replies,"I can't get into your knickers!"
"And you never bloody will if you don't change your attitude."

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Last night, my wife and I were sitting in the lounge room and I said to her

"I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependant on some machines

and fluids from a bottle. If that ever happens just pull the plug".

She got up, unplugged the tv and threw out my beer.

MY GARDEN

2006-10-13T16:40:00.000+10:00

BEFORE

UP GOES THE RETAINING WALL

"COME ON BOYS BEER AND BBQ"

Bloody little thieves, either kids or people that just couldnt afford to buy there own plants, we probably had roughly 30-40 plants stollen, and it still happens to this day but not as often.

The finishing touch, not bad for someone that doesnt have a green thumb, if I can do it anyone can.

HADEN "THE GUN"

2006-10-09T21:48:00.000+10:00

My step son Haden 16 turning 26 im sure, Haden has lived with myself & Colin since he was 4 years of age. A little about him .. He will kill me when he see's this but he's very affectionate, kind, naughty, cheaky but most of all he would do anything for you. Haden is currently in year 10 would like to pursue a carreer in Media. Here are a few poses of Haden with his cousin taking the photo's, he definately isnt shy!!!!

At the age of 14 Haden had braces put on his teeth and am glad to reveal the finished product, They look fantastic.
Was definately worth every penny.. As you will see.

2004

2006

LEARNING TO SWIM

2006-10-07T19:31:00.000+10:00

Timothy (7) & Kara (4) have been having swimming lessons for awhile now. Timothy & Kara can not wait to go up to Nanny's at summer time to swim in the pool.

Liam (3) his very first swimming lesson - waiting patiently for his swimming lesson to start

Liam was very hesitant about what he was suppose to do, but the instructor wasnt overly fussed as they like the little ones to get to know and trust them first.

Kara learning water safety with her instuctor, Kara has come along way, theres noway you would have got her head under water now I cant keep her out of the water, a bit nerve racking for me but im getting used to it

Timothy is doing well accationally gets told of for doing bombs in the pool but boys will be boys.
Timothy believes he doesnt need his floaties this summer.. is he in for a shock!!!

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Learning to swim is a vital skill for all ages, especially children.

Ensuring your child receives quality teaching is important because larning to swim is a skill for life. Having your child "learn to swim" by a qualified teacher will ensure they are provided with appropriate skills.

However water familiarisation is no subsitutute for adult supervision. Rember, always keep watch when children are in and around water.

SOME POOL SAFETY RULES

1. Never leave small children unsupervised- even for a few seconds.

2. Put Fencing around the pool area to keep people from using the pool without your knowledge.

3. Keep children away from pool filters as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing.

4. Be sure all pool users know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer.

5. Dont swim alone or allow others to swim alone.

6. Check the pool area reguarly for glass bottles, toys or other potentional accident hazards.

7. Dont allow anyone who has been drinking alcohol to use the pool.

8. Keep CD players radios and other electrial devices away from pools and nearby wet surfaces.

9. Stay out of the pool during rain and lightning storms.

10. Never dive into water before checking the water depth before plunging into an pool.

SWIM SAFE

"WHO'S LOOKING OUT FOR YOU"

UP UP AND AWAY

2006-10-02T20:24:00.000+10:00

As long as I've known Colin (14 years) hes wanted to go up in a Tigermoth plane. This year he got his wish.

Colin was quite calm and excited to arrive at RAAF, then was asked the question "would you like mild acrobatics" he didnt think about it for long before he answered "no", and I wouldn't be doing my job as a wife if I didnt persuade him to change his mind. You will might never get the chance again.. "go for it "I say. .. "Okkkkk" responded Colin. Put the leathers on and refill the plane then we are off. I would be lying if i said he wasnt nervous, (He did better than me, you wouldnt get me in one of those if my life depended on it).
Click Click getting lots of photos, and off he goes.

The Joyflight was a 45 minute scenery tour of the beaches and city of Melbourne.

Time for the plane to come back in, I go outside in waiting for the view of the plane to come in sight, then before i know it he has landed.. White as a Ghost I must say, I have a video of Colin kissing the ground as he got out.

Then afterwards to the RAAF (Royal Australian Airforce) Museum, to see spectatuclar airoplanes and all the old equipment they used on & off the planes. If I had been bloging by then I would no doubt have plenty of photos.

M&Ms and the Dark Movies Painting

2006-09-26T16:37:00.000+10:00

It’s a little game that’s actually pretty fun and very well done. It’s a treasure hunt where you search an original painting for visual puns that are the titles of “Dark Movies”.

It’s flash based and kind of resource intensive (if you’re on dial-up ... anyone still on dial-up?). You move around the image and click when you think you’ve identified a pun and input the title into the little box. The box glows green when you get it right and the pun fades. You don’t have to complete the game all at once, you can save it for later by inputting an email address.
There are 50 movie titles.

LETS SEE HOW MANY WE CAN GET

HOME SAFE N SOUND

2006-09-25T22:10:00.000+10:00

After a busy week with the kids at nanny's the kids had a ball, and naturally what happens when the sun come out.. yes you got it.. "can we go in the pool"? They were not going to let up, the solar system had been on for a while, the water was a bit chilly but to have a little sanity I thought ahh why not 10-15 min tops I think they were in there for.. but atleast they didnt ask again.
Definately kept us on the our toes, went shopping, visits to the park and being spoilt by all. Then it was time to go and move on and give nanny a rest.. off we go to Cazz's for the night we met for some lunch and more shopping then soon after back to Cazz's for a bit of drink or two or three. Been a busy week

Home again now, preparing for another big weekend.

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Look Out Mum .. Here We Come !!!

2006-09-18T17:25:00.000+10:00

Decided to visit mum during the kids school holidays. So up we got, packed the bags, and the car and headed off for your marathon 3hr trip. As Haden has just recently got his "Learners Driving Permit" , and after some nagging from him, I let Haden drive, thinking its highway travel and would be good experience for him. So trying to remain calm and not panic.. as mothers do, we were off and on our way. We experienced one small incident, with me yelling at the other bloody impatient driver who was clearly in the wrong .. I'm giving them the "bird (middle finger salute)", pointing to the "L" plates .. generally doing what I would have told him off for if he had of done so !!! But to his credit, he kept his cool, and handled things well. I might give him a new nic name though "LEAD FOOT ANGUS' had to pull him back a few times but overall he did great. Well we arrived safe and sound, got out the car, kissed the ground and got myself a stiff drink ....LOL !!!!

The kids drove me mental "are we there yet?" ... "are we there yet?"... after a while patient mum yells... "does it look like we are there yet", I had the kid nagging me, a lead foot when i wasnt watching... what a journey and we gotta get home yet.

Timothy(7), Kara(4) & Liam (3) were very happy to arrive at nan's with heaps of cuddles and kisses and not to mention a few lollies and chocolate frogs (I did question to make sure she did chocolate coat that lovely froggie in the spinach leaves packet)...lol

Soon as we arrived I could smell the aromal of a lovely roast lamb cooking (good one mum), then the kids wanted to run inside and put there swimmers on, even though mum put on the solar heating system on the day before, the water is still a bit to chilly.. tomorrow on the other hand is going to be a lovely 27c.

Am of to visit my sister Donna, nephew and nieces tomorrow whilst mum goes and plays her pennant bowls, I think I'am banned from taking the kids down to the bowls to watch... mum says the kids might be a bit distracting ... I mean geeeee .... does she mean the kids would be loud and boisterous ... NOOO.. not my little cherubs ... hmmmm yeah right!!!!

Anyway am going to go and enjoy a lovely roast, will have some photo's to share later in the week.

Take Care
Joanne (Litttle Jen)

Quote Of The Week

2006-09-15T16:57:00.000+10:00

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Quotes are like women's skirts,

it must be short enough to grab your attention,

but long enough to cover the subject!!!!

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TOP THINGS YOUR MOTHER WOULD NEVER SAY

* How on earth can you see the TV sitting so far back?
* Yeah, I used to skip school a lot, too.
* Just leave all the lights on ... it makes the house look more cheery.
* Let me smell that shirt. Yeah, it's good for another week.
* Go ahead and keep that stray dog, honey. I'll be glad to feed and walk him every day.
* Well, if Timmy's mom says it's OK, that's good enough for me.
* The curfew is just a general time to shoot for. It's not like I'm running a prison around here.
* I don't have a tissue with me. Just use your sleeve.
* Don't bother wearing a jacket - the wind-chill is bound to improve.

TOP THINGS YOUR FATHER WOULD NEVER SAY

* Well how 'bout that? I'm lost! Looks like we'll have to stop and ask for directions.
* You know Pumpkin, now that you're thirteen, you'll be ready for non-chaperoned car dates. Won't that be fun?
* I noticed that all your friends have a certain "up yours" attitude. I like that in a young person!
* Here's a credit card and the keys to my new car. GO CRAZY!!!
* What do you mean you want to play football? Figure skating not good enough for you, son?
* Your mother and I are going away for while. You might want to consider throwing a party.
* Well, I don't know what's wrong with your car. Probably one of those doo-hickie thingies - you know - that makes it run or something. Just have it towed to the mechanic's and pay whatever they ask.
* No son of mine is going to live under this roof without an earring. Now quit your belly aching and lets get to the mall.
* Whaddaya want to go and get a job for? I make plenty of money for you to spend.
* Father's Day? Ah - don't worry about that - it's no big deal.

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2006-09-09T17:17:00.000+10:00

Well here it goes, I am sitting here on a cold and wet day bored so what beter things to do is start my own blog.. (plus a little persuation from my family).

Eight is Enough you may ask :-

My Step Children

Alicia, Christopher, Amy, Haden

& Step son-in-law Brian (Alicia's Husband)

My Lovely Cherubs

Laura (dec), Timothy, Kara & Liam

Basketball team ?? better get them into ozball then.

Jen (my mum) & Little Jen (me)