Wednesday -
It is cold but snowing. The wind is howling, supposed to reach 60 mph.
Today is a sad day, for many different reasons.
On another note, I am excited about tomorrow. Brandon and I are flying (if the weather cooperates) to Wyoming for five days. The kids are staying with his parents. We are heading west to visit friends and to go snowboarding. I am a little nervous of the snowboarding, I haven't been in three years. Pregnancy has always occurred during the wrong season. I'm sure it is like riding a bike, right?
10.12.09
Day 24
Tuesday -
Today is the long anticipated day for my girls. We are putting up the Christmas tree, decorating it, and the decorating the house. Christmas is coming!
Turn on the Christmas music. Greenery, ornaments, nativities, lights, etc. etc. The girls are thoroughly enjoying themselves. Gideon has his eye on the tree. Must remember to watch him....
Gids is so close to walking. We catch him every now and then taking a step when he isn't thinking. Bribes have not worked so far.
I spend the day making meat pies for our dinner. We are having company come over so I am making Aussie meat pies with a red wine/onion/mushroom sauce, roasted veggies, and a spinach/tomato/mozzarella salad. Yum.
The pies are great. The veggies are a little on the soggy side due to staying in the oven a bit too long.
Conversation was great. We talked about Australia a bit. Our struggles, where we are going in the future, etc.
Today is the long anticipated day for my girls. We are putting up the Christmas tree, decorating it, and the decorating the house. Christmas is coming!
Turn on the Christmas music. Greenery, ornaments, nativities, lights, etc. etc. The girls are thoroughly enjoying themselves. Gideon has his eye on the tree. Must remember to watch him....
Gids is so close to walking. We catch him every now and then taking a step when he isn't thinking. Bribes have not worked so far.
I spend the day making meat pies for our dinner. We are having company come over so I am making Aussie meat pies with a red wine/onion/mushroom sauce, roasted veggies, and a spinach/tomato/mozzarella salad. Yum.
The pies are great. The veggies are a little on the soggy side due to staying in the oven a bit too long.
Conversation was great. We talked about Australia a bit. Our struggles, where we are going in the future, etc.
Day 23
Monday -
It has snowed. I don't know how but the girls knew at 5am that it was snowing and decided to come tell us. They were very "sited." (excited, but in Jolene speak)
We had breakfast and then bundled up for the traditional chopping down of the Christmas tree. Drove to the tree farm only to discover it would not open until 1pm. Not to fear, the morning was not wasted. We decided to go sledding instead. I was not feeling well so I did not participate. From all accounts the girls loved it, Gids was taking a nap at home. Adele would flip over from time to time. She didn't mind, in fact she was giggling and asking for another ride before she back to the top. Jolene, the always adventurous, had a blast.
They made snow angels too. Another item checked off from our list.
After lunch we headed back to the tree farm to find that perfect tress. After wandering around the fields for a while we finally found one. Everyone had a turn at the hacksaw.
Tomorrow we decorate!
It has snowed. I don't know how but the girls knew at 5am that it was snowing and decided to come tell us. They were very "sited." (excited, but in Jolene speak)
We had breakfast and then bundled up for the traditional chopping down of the Christmas tree. Drove to the tree farm only to discover it would not open until 1pm. Not to fear, the morning was not wasted. We decided to go sledding instead. I was not feeling well so I did not participate. From all accounts the girls loved it, Gids was taking a nap at home. Adele would flip over from time to time. She didn't mind, in fact she was giggling and asking for another ride before she back to the top. Jolene, the always adventurous, had a blast.
They made snow angels too. Another item checked off from our list.
After lunch we headed back to the tree farm to find that perfect tress. After wandering around the fields for a while we finally found one. Everyone had a turn at the hacksaw.
Tomorrow we decorate!
Day 22
Sunday -
Brandon is here worshiping with us. It is nice having the entire family together for Sunday worship.
There is a fellowship following. Always a good time for catching up with old friends and making new ones.
I have enjoyed meeting some of the newer members at our parent's churches. I can tell that if we were around longer we would, in the words of Anne of Green Gables, have a few new bosom friends.
Brandon is here worshiping with us. It is nice having the entire family together for Sunday worship.
There is a fellowship following. Always a good time for catching up with old friends and making new ones.
I have enjoyed meeting some of the newer members at our parent's churches. I can tell that if we were around longer we would, in the words of Anne of Green Gables, have a few new bosom friends.
Day 21
Saturday -
Brandon comes! but not until late.......................how long is this day anyway.
I go with Pam and some of the girls to Noblesville for some shopping. Goodwill is having 50% in all of their stores. I also find a "few" things at TJ Maxx. To be honest I haven't bought much at the main shops. Most of my purchases have been from eBay, Amazon, or Goodwill. We try to buy used if possible, it is much easier to do over here. A population of over 10x greater than the one you are used to will do that for you.
After shopping I head to Indy for my sister's bachelorette party. There is a scavenger hunt in a massive three story mall, dining at a fun Italian restaurant, and lots of talking. I had a great time.
After the party I drive to the airport with my warp speed at maximum. The highways here are so vast and empty (at this time of night). They are begging for you to smash your foot on the accelerator. I sadly decline.
I get to the airport early but meet Brandon coming down the stairs to the baggage claim area. Kind of anti-climatic. Oh well, at least he is here safe and sound.
Brandon comes! but not until late.......................how long is this day anyway.
I go with Pam and some of the girls to Noblesville for some shopping. Goodwill is having 50% in all of their stores. I also find a "few" things at TJ Maxx. To be honest I haven't bought much at the main shops. Most of my purchases have been from eBay, Amazon, or Goodwill. We try to buy used if possible, it is much easier to do over here. A population of over 10x greater than the one you are used to will do that for you.
After shopping I head to Indy for my sister's bachelorette party. There is a scavenger hunt in a massive three story mall, dining at a fun Italian restaurant, and lots of talking. I had a great time.
After the party I drive to the airport with my warp speed at maximum. The highways here are so vast and empty (at this time of night). They are begging for you to smash your foot on the accelerator. I sadly decline.
I get to the airport early but meet Brandon coming down the stairs to the baggage claim area. Kind of anti-climatic. Oh well, at least he is here safe and sound.
Day 20
Friday -
Another exciting day for the girls. Brandon's parents, my parents, I, and my girls are going to see the Nutcracker ballet at Butler University. The girls can hardly wait for the evening to roll around. They get to wear their Christmas outfits to the ballet. This day is going to be hard to beat.
The ballet is lovely, we really should go more often. The girls try to dance in front of their seats but there just isn't enough room. Poor Jolene, she was trying so hard to be still. Every now and then I caught her toes pointing and moving. Adele had to release herself and lift her hands above her head in one of those "lift hands above head" ballet moves.
During the intermission I tell them to go dance in the hallway. They do until the lights call us back to our seats.
They loved the ballet and so did we.
Another exciting day for the girls. Brandon's parents, my parents, I, and my girls are going to see the Nutcracker ballet at Butler University. The girls can hardly wait for the evening to roll around. They get to wear their Christmas outfits to the ballet. This day is going to be hard to beat.
The ballet is lovely, we really should go more often. The girls try to dance in front of their seats but there just isn't enough room. Poor Jolene, she was trying so hard to be still. Every now and then I caught her toes pointing and moving. Adele had to release herself and lift her hands above her head in one of those "lift hands above head" ballet moves.
During the intermission I tell them to go dance in the hallway. They do until the lights call us back to our seats.
They loved the ballet and so did we.
Day 15
Sunday -
Today we are worshiping with the Kokomo RP church. The sermon was on Psalm 67, the Missionary Psalm.
Main point: The primary goal of a church should be worship not missions.
Today we are worshiping with the Kokomo RP church. The sermon was on Psalm 67, the Missionary Psalm.
Main point: The primary goal of a church should be worship not missions.
Day 14
Saturday -
A week from today Brandon will be joining us. Can't wait.
Saw the new Fisher home. They had moved since we were here 2.5 years ago. We began to settle in to our new home of three weeks.
That evening we drove around Kokomo and looked at some of the biggest light displays I have ever seen. There is one house known for its display. They now do it as a fund raiser. As you drive or walk through you can give donations to the 'We Care' group.
A week from today Brandon will be joining us. Can't wait.
Saw the new Fisher home. They had moved since we were here 2.5 years ago. We began to settle in to our new home of three weeks.
That evening we drove around Kokomo and looked at some of the biggest light displays I have ever seen. There is one house known for its display. They now do it as a fund raiser. As you drive or walk through you can give donations to the 'We Care' group.
Day 13
Friday -
Big day today. Second Thanksgiving dinner and then downtown Indy for the Circle of Lights. The Circle of Lights festival is the beginning of the countdown to Christmas. Head to downtown Indy and you will find yourself at a round-about. In the middle of this round-about is a high, pointy memorial which every year is turned into a Christmas tree. At the festival there is a countdown for the lighting of the tree. The tree lights up and then we all head home to warm up. The girls enjoyed it, Gideon was not as impressed.
It was cold that night but we survived.
After the tree was lit I and the kids headed to Kokomo, due North.
An hour and a half later we were there. Lots of smiling faces awaited.
Big day today. Second Thanksgiving dinner and then downtown Indy for the Circle of Lights. The Circle of Lights festival is the beginning of the countdown to Christmas. Head to downtown Indy and you will find yourself at a round-about. In the middle of this round-about is a high, pointy memorial which every year is turned into a Christmas tree. At the festival there is a countdown for the lighting of the tree. The tree lights up and then we all head home to warm up. The girls enjoyed it, Gideon was not as impressed.
It was cold that night but we survived.
After the tree was lit I and the kids headed to Kokomo, due North.
An hour and a half later we were there. Lots of smiling faces awaited.
Day 12
Thursday -
Can't remember what we did this day. If I can I will insert text later.
*update*
Ummm, major brain lapse. So on this day we were in Hobart, IN to visit my grandparents for Thanksgiving. My aunt and uncle were there as well. We all had a great time talking and hanging out. I enjoyed watching my cousins play with the kids. They and my brothers were big helpers.
It is sad to see people age. Minds begin to slow, bodies do not move as they once did. All the more reason to look forward to Heaven.
Can't remember what we did this day. If I can I will insert text later.
*update*
Ummm, major brain lapse. So on this day we were in Hobart, IN to visit my grandparents for Thanksgiving. My aunt and uncle were there as well. We all had a great time talking and hanging out. I enjoyed watching my cousins play with the kids. They and my brothers were big helpers.
It is sad to see people age. Minds begin to slow, bodies do not move as they once did. All the more reason to look forward to Heaven.
Day 11
Wednesday -
Got together with old friends from church. I have known these two girls since the day I was born. It is such a joy to catch up with old friends and see where God is directing there lives.
They both both have a child and are both expecting their second.
We were able to walk to my friends house from my parent's house. We decided to walk down the train tracks part of the way. Jolene thought this was especially cool. We did it on the way back too.
Got together with old friends from church. I have known these two girls since the day I was born. It is such a joy to catch up with old friends and see where God is directing there lives.
They both both have a child and are both expecting their second.
We were able to walk to my friends house from my parent's house. We decided to walk down the train tracks part of the way. Jolene thought this was especially cool. We did it on the way back too.
Day 10
Today I played soccer with my brother's team. Fun. I am having a really good time hanging out with my brothers. This has been missing in my life for the past 7 years.
Mainly hung around my parent's house. I am writing this two weeks later and this is all the stands out in the blur of activity.
Mainly hung around my parent's house. I am writing this two weeks later and this is all the stands out in the blur of activity.
28.11.09
Day 9
Saturday -
Jolene is always asking if the uncles have to go to school today. Today is her special day, they get to stay home.
Today is also my sister Eleni's bridal shower at the SSRP church. I leave Gids with the uncles and grandpa. My girls come along to the shower.
It was so nice to be able to go to the shower. We don't get to participate in many family events. iI'm glad I was able to go to this special one. Oh, and the wedding :-)
The rest of the day was spent relaxing. Did we go to the park too? I can't remember, I think we did because Charlotte went with us and she left on Sunday. So yes, we did go to the park. It was a very nice afternoon. The park had a cycle cross race going on. Cycle cross is kind of like a steeplechase for bikes. Interesting to watch. We don't do much in the biking area of sport. Always good to see something new.
The leaves have all turned color and are now lying sadly on the ground. Just waiting there until the bugs turn them into compost. The leaves make lovely crunching noise when stomping through them. My girls enjoyed the stomping and the throwing.
Jolene is always asking if the uncles have to go to school today. Today is her special day, they get to stay home.
Today is also my sister Eleni's bridal shower at the SSRP church. I leave Gids with the uncles and grandpa. My girls come along to the shower.
It was so nice to be able to go to the shower. We don't get to participate in many family events. iI'm glad I was able to go to this special one. Oh, and the wedding :-)
The rest of the day was spent relaxing. Did we go to the park too? I can't remember, I think we did because Charlotte went with us and she left on Sunday. So yes, we did go to the park. It was a very nice afternoon. The park had a cycle cross race going on. Cycle cross is kind of like a steeplechase for bikes. Interesting to watch. We don't do much in the biking area of sport. Always good to see something new.
The leaves have all turned color and are now lying sadly on the ground. Just waiting there until the bugs turn them into compost. The leaves make lovely crunching noise when stomping through them. My girls enjoyed the stomping and the throwing.
Day 8
Friday -
Today is library book sale day. I am excited. It might get a bit hairy taking all the kids with me, but I don't really have any other option. So, they are coming no matter how bad it gets.
Awesome.
hardbacks are $0.50
paperbacks are $0.25
I buy 18 books. Maybe I should have checked to see if they will all fit. Oh well.
The girls behaved well. They grabbed some books and camped out on the floor while I browsed. Gideon was not very excited about the prospect of sitting in the pram the entire time. Too bad, here is an apple. Gids decided that throwing the apple was much more exciting.
Today is library book sale day. I am excited. It might get a bit hairy taking all the kids with me, but I don't really have any other option. So, they are coming no matter how bad it gets.
Awesome.
hardbacks are $0.50
paperbacks are $0.25
I buy 18 books. Maybe I should have checked to see if they will all fit. Oh well.
The girls behaved well. They grabbed some books and camped out on the floor while I browsed. Gideon was not very excited about the prospect of sitting in the pram the entire time. Too bad, here is an apple. Gids decided that throwing the apple was much more exciting.
Day 7
Thursday -
The Fishers came and visited today. They held out as long as they could :-) It would be hard seeing your grandkids at the airport and then having to leave and not see them for another two weeks.
My parents and brothers are all at school during the day. It works out well to go and come during the day and then be home in the afternoon when everyone else come back from school.
Jolene told me today that she doesn't want to go back to Australia. At this point I don't either. Adele has already said a few times that she wants to go home. Gideon could care less.
The Fishers came and visited today. They held out as long as they could :-) It would be hard seeing your grandkids at the airport and then having to leave and not see them for another two weeks.
My parents and brothers are all at school during the day. It works out well to go and come during the day and then be home in the afternoon when everyone else come back from school.
Jolene told me today that she doesn't want to go back to Australia. At this point I don't either. Adele has already said a few times that she wants to go home. Gideon could care less.
Day 6
Wednesday -
Went and visited my college friend Melissa. She has a little boy now named Noah. He is very cute and smiley. It is always nice to catch up with old friends and see what directions their lives are heading in.
At this point all the kids are sleeping through the night, hooray.
Driving hasn't been as confusing as I thought. The only warning signals my brain fired off were when I was driving around a round-a-bout in the opposite direction. We would go around one in the clockwise position where here is it counter-clockwise. Feels very strange.
Went and visited my college friend Melissa. She has a little boy now named Noah. He is very cute and smiley. It is always nice to catch up with old friends and see what directions their lives are heading in.
At this point all the kids are sleeping through the night, hooray.
Driving hasn't been as confusing as I thought. The only warning signals my brain fired off were when I was driving around a round-a-bout in the opposite direction. We would go around one in the clockwise position where here is it counter-clockwise. Feels very strange.
23.11.09
Day 5
Tuesday-
I was supposed to meet up with a friend today but her little one is sick so we had to postpone. I took the kids to a library story time instead. I am starting to notice accents a lot more. The librarian's was quite strong. Funny, how your ears change.
The library was great, sooo many books. I had fun looking through and finding all the old titles that I used to read as a child. I have noticed that in Geelong there are hardly any doubles of books and not many of a series in the same library. I don't find many books that I used to read either. Maybe they favor the British writers more?
The corn has turned a nice golden color. Just sitting around waiting to be harvested. Sadly the apple orchard near my parent's house closed for the winter the day we arrived. No more fresh apple cider.
In the evening I drove over to the school my brothers go to. My parents both work there as well. I met up with my oldest brother and played soccer with him and a few other guys from school. My brother is trying to get a guys team started. Unfortunately they care more about gridiron than soccer. If he can get a good showing at practice this year then they might be able to start a club next year. The year after that they would be able to officially form a school team. I hope it comes together for him.
I have to say at this point my girls are in love with their uncles. Jolene can hardly wait until 3pm rolls around and the uncles staring walking through the door. They are playing a lot of chassie, hide N' seek, and wrestling.
I was supposed to meet up with a friend today but her little one is sick so we had to postpone. I took the kids to a library story time instead. I am starting to notice accents a lot more. The librarian's was quite strong. Funny, how your ears change.
The library was great, sooo many books. I had fun looking through and finding all the old titles that I used to read as a child. I have noticed that in Geelong there are hardly any doubles of books and not many of a series in the same library. I don't find many books that I used to read either. Maybe they favor the British writers more?
The corn has turned a nice golden color. Just sitting around waiting to be harvested. Sadly the apple orchard near my parent's house closed for the winter the day we arrived. No more fresh apple cider.
In the evening I drove over to the school my brothers go to. My parents both work there as well. I met up with my oldest brother and played soccer with him and a few other guys from school. My brother is trying to get a guys team started. Unfortunately they care more about gridiron than soccer. If he can get a good showing at practice this year then they might be able to start a club next year. The year after that they would be able to officially form a school team. I hope it comes together for him.
I have to say at this point my girls are in love with their uncles. Jolene can hardly wait until 3pm rolls around and the uncles staring walking through the door. They are playing a lot of chassie, hide N' seek, and wrestling.
Day 4
Monday -
Girls slept mainly through the night, except for a few moans and mutterings from Adele. Gideon woke up five times and ended up sleeping with me.
We mainly just hung out at the house. It was cold and yucky. The girls had a fun time playing with our old toys. Gideon loves Cameron's car collection.
Girls slept mainly through the night, except for a few moans and mutterings from Adele. Gideon woke up five times and ended up sleeping with me.
We mainly just hung out at the house. It was cold and yucky. The girls had a fun time playing with our old toys. Gideon loves Cameron's car collection.
21.11.09
Day 3
Sunday -
We all slept until 8am. I had to wake the kids so that we could get ready for church. Day one and two after a long flight are hard. Your body is so confused it is almost funny. The best thing to do is push through and go about as if you had never crossed so many time zones. I have to remind myself on these days that the kids attitudes should be almost completely overlooked, unless they are doing physical harm.
Church went well. Gids was loud as usually and went off to the nursery and then fell asleep in grandma's arms. Oh, I am at my parents for the first two weeks.
Visiting Southside RP church was weird. The building has been redone and there are lots of new people. That is good, I just felt like a visitor in my home church.
That afternoon we went to Southeastway Park. The kids needed to run. I love the smell of fallen leaves.
Kids in bed by 8 and I was in bed by 10.
We all slept until 8am. I had to wake the kids so that we could get ready for church. Day one and two after a long flight are hard. Your body is so confused it is almost funny. The best thing to do is push through and go about as if you had never crossed so many time zones. I have to remind myself on these days that the kids attitudes should be almost completely overlooked, unless they are doing physical harm.
Church went well. Gids was loud as usually and went off to the nursery and then fell asleep in grandma's arms. Oh, I am at my parents for the first two weeks.
Visiting Southside RP church was weird. The building has been redone and there are lots of new people. That is good, I just felt like a visitor in my home church.
That afternoon we went to Southeastway Park. The kids needed to run. I love the smell of fallen leaves.
Kids in bed by 8 and I was in bed by 10.
Day 2
First flight - Melbourne to Sydney 1.5 hrs.
had to catch a bus from the domestic to international
Only one bus was working so it took a long time. We had to race walk to catch our next flight.
Second flight - Sydney to LAX 14 hrs.
Kids slept for about 6-7 hours. Out of the whole flight I was able to watch 45 min. of a movie. The kids did great, prayers were answered.
Once in LA, Brandon's uncle picked us up and took us to the LA Fisher household. We ate, had baths, slept, ate again, went to the park, talked, and had a great time.
Third flight - LA to Las Vegas 1 hr.
Short enough that know one freaked out.
Saw the Vegas strip, very sad and ugly. Of course the Vegas airport was littered with slot machines. Gideon was very restless. We were all tired and hungry. Gideon cried the last 45 min. waiting to board the plane. Everyone was giving me looks. I told a few of them that we were traveling from Australia and they lightened up a bit.
Fourth flight - Las Vegas to Indy 3 hrs.
A hard flight. We were over flying. The kids slept for the first two hours. The last hour seemed to last three times the true length. Gideon was not happy. The playdough given to me by a friend in Melbourne saved us. Thank you!
Got to Indy at 11pm safe and sound. Got to bed at 1am.
had to catch a bus from the domestic to international
Only one bus was working so it took a long time. We had to race walk to catch our next flight.
Second flight - Sydney to LAX 14 hrs.
Kids slept for about 6-7 hours. Out of the whole flight I was able to watch 45 min. of a movie. The kids did great, prayers were answered.
Once in LA, Brandon's uncle picked us up and took us to the LA Fisher household. We ate, had baths, slept, ate again, went to the park, talked, and had a great time.
Third flight - LA to Las Vegas 1 hr.
Short enough that know one freaked out.
Saw the Vegas strip, very sad and ugly. Of course the Vegas airport was littered with slot machines. Gideon was very restless. We were all tired and hungry. Gideon cried the last 45 min. waiting to board the plane. Everyone was giving me looks. I told a few of them that we were traveling from Australia and they lightened up a bit.
Fourth flight - Las Vegas to Indy 3 hrs.
A hard flight. We were over flying. The kids slept for the first two hours. The last hour seemed to last three times the true length. Gideon was not happy. The playdough given to me by a friend in Melbourne saved us. Thank you!
Got to Indy at 11pm safe and sound. Got to bed at 1am.
19.11.09
Day 1
I am trying to catch up and keep a record of all we do. Here we go.
Our calendar
So we went to the beach before we left on Friday. It was very nice and relaxing pre-flight activity. Came home from the beach took showers, gave the kids lunch, gave the kids a sleep, headed to the airport.
At the airport we met up with our traveling companions. There were three of them to LAX and then only one all the way through to Indy. I could not have done it alone.
Our calendar
So we went to the beach before we left on Friday. It was very nice and relaxing pre-flight activity. Came home from the beach took showers, gave the kids lunch, gave the kids a sleep, headed to the airport.
At the airport we met up with our traveling companions. There were three of them to LAX and then only one all the way through to Indy. I could not have done it alone.
10.11.09
Ok, that wasn't true
The last post was about our last trip to the beach. I was wrong.
We went today and will probably go again tomorrow or Thursday.
It has been in the 30s (low 90s) all this week, perfect weather.
The ocean is beginning to warm up and the winds have died down.
Going to the beach helps keep the house clean until we go.
I have to say it is going to be hard going into a US winter while it is so lovely here. I just hope the snow comes early.
I am about packed. Actually I have had the clothes packed for a while but they were needing to be weeded out. I know I packed too much the first time. We forget how warm the houses are in the States. I packed a bunch of jumpers and then realized that we will be too hot inside to wear them. Brandon said he is going to pack shorts and t-shirts. I told him that was a little extreme. Well, maybe not the t-shirt part.
We went today and will probably go again tomorrow or Thursday.
It has been in the 30s (low 90s) all this week, perfect weather.
The ocean is beginning to warm up and the winds have died down.
Going to the beach helps keep the house clean until we go.
I have to say it is going to be hard going into a US winter while it is so lovely here. I just hope the snow comes early.
I am about packed. Actually I have had the clothes packed for a while but they were needing to be weeded out. I know I packed too much the first time. We forget how warm the houses are in the States. I packed a bunch of jumpers and then realized that we will be too hot inside to wear them. Brandon said he is going to pack shorts and t-shirts. I told him that was a little extreme. Well, maybe not the t-shirt part.
7.11.09
Last beach trip before we leave for the States
We found some cool things.
Fossils
Dead seal pup
and rock pools
see here
We leave in 5.5 days. Our bedroom is a complete disaster at the moment. Clothes everywhere.
At this moment in time I wish I could be Merlin from the movie Sword in the Stone. I would tap my wand and make everything dance into one suitcase that I could easily carry.
Fossils
Dead seal pup
and rock pools
see here
We leave in 5.5 days. Our bedroom is a complete disaster at the moment. Clothes everywhere.
At this moment in time I wish I could be Merlin from the movie Sword in the Stone. I would tap my wand and make everything dance into one suitcase that I could easily carry.
1.11.09
surprise!, rally driving-best date ever, good times
note: the best part is at the bottom, so don't stop halfway through
This year Brandon turns 30. So to celebrate this monumental event I decided to throw a surprise birthday party for him...two months early.
Here is the invite if you want to view it.
It didn't end up being a surprise for Brandon, here is why...
1. He saw a work mate's e-mail and noticed an evite from me.
2. He read our internet history the one day I forgot to delete the evite url from the history. Saw the evite url and the game was up. At this time he didn't know the date.
3. Friday when he got home from work, Adele spilled the beans.
Before Brandon could say anything after getting home from work on Friday...
Adele: "No, won't say anything!"
Brandon: "huh?"
Adele: "It's a surprise"
Brandon: smiles and winks at me
Me: smirk at him
Jolene: "the only thing we can talk about is that we had a bath"
Right so he knew at this point.
On the way over we decided that Brandon should try to sneak in and come up behind everyone and surprise them. Someone needed to be surprised after all this work, right?
So I dropped him at the corner and then waited a few minutes before I drove up to the house. Brandon meanwhile sneaked through the laundry door and into the living room where everyone was quietly waiting. He walked up behind everyone and quietly asked "is he here yet?" I think everyone was very confused for a few seconds, Brandon and I enjoy being devious every now and again :-)
Party details -
Venue - Alastair and Marg McEwen's house. Our house was going to be way to small for the 36 people.
Food - Wine and cheese tasting, homemade meat pies, sushi, dim sims, and other finger food. Oh, and of course cake...see below.
What we did -
Ate food
All about Brandon quiz
Pass the Parcel
Speech from Josh
Speech from Brandon
Ate, ate, ate, ate, ate
Voting on the best wine and the best cheese
Music -
A great selection from our iTunes library, see below
I know, this post is getting long but keep reading the best is yet to come!
The game pass the parcel is something we do not do in the States. So I decided that since Brandon has missed out for 30 years that we would play it that night. A parcel is made by wrapping a bunch of "gifts" (some were gags) in different layers of paper. The last gift was for the birthday boy. The funny thing is, we had agreed not to get each other anything for our birthdays this year. Well, Brandon bought me an iPhone and I bought him the surprise inside the parcel.
The surprise was a voucher to go rally driving in Werribee. We did the rally driving yesterday (Sat). Brandon got to choose two cars (evo and STI) to drive 12 laps in. An instructor sat in the passenger seat (where the navigator sits during a rally race) and gave him tips on how to improve his time. After all that the instructor takes you on a hot lap around the entire course. Brandon paid an extra $30 so that I could go on a hot lap too. Let me just say it was awesome and I want to do more. Speed is addictive. Brandon and I both agree that this was the best date ever.
For the hot laps Brandon and I were both hoping, hoping that we got the guy who is Australia's drifting champion, Luke, and we did!
We were going 150ks on the straights. My stomach felt like it was on a roller coaster. I told the instructor, Luke, that it was an addictive feeling. He agreed. Luke was threading this car through boulders and around hairpin turns with an ease that is quite amazing. At times I couldn't tell if we had our nose pointing down the line. He knew what he was doing. I lost all sense of direction. I will have Brandon do a write up of his experience.
Here is an album of the party and Saturday's rally driving
Here is a video of Brandon's last few laps. I took the video from my iPhone, sorry about the wind noise. I forgot to cover the mic.
This year Brandon turns 30. So to celebrate this monumental event I decided to throw a surprise birthday party for him...two months early.
Here is the invite if you want to view it.
It didn't end up being a surprise for Brandon, here is why...
1. He saw a work mate's e-mail and noticed an evite from me.
2. He read our internet history the one day I forgot to delete the evite url from the history. Saw the evite url and the game was up. At this time he didn't know the date.
3. Friday when he got home from work, Adele spilled the beans.
Before Brandon could say anything after getting home from work on Friday...
Adele: "No, won't say anything!"
Brandon: "huh?"
Adele: "It's a surprise"
Brandon: smiles and winks at me
Me: smirk at him
Jolene: "the only thing we can talk about is that we had a bath"
Right so he knew at this point.
On the way over we decided that Brandon should try to sneak in and come up behind everyone and surprise them. Someone needed to be surprised after all this work, right?
So I dropped him at the corner and then waited a few minutes before I drove up to the house. Brandon meanwhile sneaked through the laundry door and into the living room where everyone was quietly waiting. He walked up behind everyone and quietly asked "is he here yet?" I think everyone was very confused for a few seconds, Brandon and I enjoy being devious every now and again :-)
Party details -
Venue - Alastair and Marg McEwen's house. Our house was going to be way to small for the 36 people.
Food - Wine and cheese tasting, homemade meat pies, sushi, dim sims, and other finger food. Oh, and of course cake...see below.
What we did -
Ate food
All about Brandon quiz
Pass the Parcel
Speech from Josh
Speech from Brandon
Ate, ate, ate, ate, ate
Voting on the best wine and the best cheese
Music -
A great selection from our iTunes library, see below
I know, this post is getting long but keep reading the best is yet to come!
The game pass the parcel is something we do not do in the States. So I decided that since Brandon has missed out for 30 years that we would play it that night. A parcel is made by wrapping a bunch of "gifts" (some were gags) in different layers of paper. The last gift was for the birthday boy. The funny thing is, we had agreed not to get each other anything for our birthdays this year. Well, Brandon bought me an iPhone and I bought him the surprise inside the parcel.
The surprise was a voucher to go rally driving in Werribee. We did the rally driving yesterday (Sat). Brandon got to choose two cars (evo and STI) to drive 12 laps in. An instructor sat in the passenger seat (where the navigator sits during a rally race) and gave him tips on how to improve his time. After all that the instructor takes you on a hot lap around the entire course. Brandon paid an extra $30 so that I could go on a hot lap too. Let me just say it was awesome and I want to do more. Speed is addictive. Brandon and I both agree that this was the best date ever.
For the hot laps Brandon and I were both hoping, hoping that we got the guy who is Australia's drifting champion, Luke, and we did!
We were going 150ks on the straights. My stomach felt like it was on a roller coaster. I told the instructor, Luke, that it was an addictive feeling. He agreed. Luke was threading this car through boulders and around hairpin turns with an ease that is quite amazing. At times I couldn't tell if we had our nose pointing down the line. He knew what he was doing. I lost all sense of direction. I will have Brandon do a write up of his experience.
Here is an album of the party and Saturday's rally driving
Here is a video of Brandon's last few laps. I took the video from my iPhone, sorry about the wind noise. I forgot to cover the mic.
28.10.09
Mem Fox - Lovely writing & blasphemous speaking
Mem Fox spoke last night at Skilled Stadium in Geelong. Mem Fox is one of the most famous children's book writers in Australia. Some of her well known titles are Koala Lou, The Magic Hat, Where is the Green Sheep?, and Possum Magic.
Koala Lou and Where is the Green Sheep? are two of my personal favourites.
Last night Mrs. Fox gave us the pleasure of listening to her read a few of her own books, followed by her thoughts on reading to children.
I enjoyed listening to her read, it was as if she was singing as times. You can see her past studies in drama come out in how she reads aloud.
The enjoyment of being read to aloud was overshadowed by her flagrant taking of the Lord's name in vain. It was so frequent that I was quite uncomfortable. It wasn't just slipping out, she was using it to create drama in her speech. I found that to be very disgusting.
I thought about raising my hand and asking her to stop but then wondered if that would be respectful and loving. In the end I didn't, maybe I was just to scared and using the "respect/love" argument as an excuse. Anyway, I have decided I will write her and tell her how wrong that was.
After the readings were finished she began to tell us stories about her experiences with people and their children reading, her world view, and how reading out loud to children is so very important.
I agree with her in that reading out loud to children is important, very important, but that is where I stop. Mrs. Fox seems to think that reading will change human nature. I am not so surprised by this. I have heard several people say how education/teaching people to read is the key. Mrs. Fox said last night that people in prison have not been read enough fairy tales. If they had been read fairy tales they would know right and wrong.
She gave an example of a young person breaking into a car to steal a five dollar note. That child did not know it was wrong. They had obviously not been read to enough., especially fairy tales.
As a Christian I know this does not match up with what the Bible says.
Fairy tales/stories/myths are not what society needs. It is God's word, the truth, that will show people what is right and wrong. Knowing right from wrong is not enough. We need to acknowledge that we have sinned and then turn to Christ seeking repentance and forgiveness. Christ dying on the cross is our hope not books, education, reading, or fairy tales.
Koala Lou and Where is the Green Sheep? are two of my personal favourites.
Last night Mrs. Fox gave us the pleasure of listening to her read a few of her own books, followed by her thoughts on reading to children.
I enjoyed listening to her read, it was as if she was singing as times. You can see her past studies in drama come out in how she reads aloud.
The enjoyment of being read to aloud was overshadowed by her flagrant taking of the Lord's name in vain. It was so frequent that I was quite uncomfortable. It wasn't just slipping out, she was using it to create drama in her speech. I found that to be very disgusting.
I thought about raising my hand and asking her to stop but then wondered if that would be respectful and loving. In the end I didn't, maybe I was just to scared and using the "respect/love" argument as an excuse. Anyway, I have decided I will write her and tell her how wrong that was.
After the readings were finished she began to tell us stories about her experiences with people and their children reading, her world view, and how reading out loud to children is so very important.
I agree with her in that reading out loud to children is important, very important, but that is where I stop. Mrs. Fox seems to think that reading will change human nature. I am not so surprised by this. I have heard several people say how education/teaching people to read is the key. Mrs. Fox said last night that people in prison have not been read enough fairy tales. If they had been read fairy tales they would know right and wrong.
She gave an example of a young person breaking into a car to steal a five dollar note. That child did not know it was wrong. They had obviously not been read to enough., especially fairy tales.
As a Christian I know this does not match up with what the Bible says.
Psalm 51:5 "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me."
Romans 3:23 "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,"
Psalm 119:11 "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."
Fairy tales/stories/myths are not what society needs. It is God's word, the truth, that will show people what is right and wrong. Knowing right from wrong is not enough. We need to acknowledge that we have sinned and then turn to Christ seeking repentance and forgiveness. Christ dying on the cross is our hope not books, education, reading, or fairy tales.
26.10.09
Challenge update and a long Saturday
Well I don't think I did very well on Saturday or Sunday.
Saturday was packed full, enough so that I barely took the time to eat breakfast and lunch.
Jolene had a birthday party to go to that morning. We had to leave early from that so I could get her to the ballet photo session. Each year the ballet group gets photos taken before the end of the year concert.
After that I went home and Brandon left to go shopping for a surfboard. His company gives each employee $500/year to spend on health and well being. For the second half of this year B decided to buy a board.
After he got back, I went grocery shopping. I was interrupted by a call from Brandon letting me know Adele had been hit by our swing in the middle of the forehead. She was bleeding profusely and needed to be taken to the doctor. I ran home, dumped the groceries, and took Adele to the doctor. The doctor put some glue in the gash and squeezed it shut until it began to dry. Put a few steri-strips on it and all better. Adele screamed while this was going on but held very still. She was a brave little girl.
After we got back from the doctor we fed the kids, put pajamas on, and then headed to McEwen's. They were watching our kids while Brandon and I went to my soccer club's end of the year dinner.
I was awarded best and fairest of 2009 for the Women's team. A very cool thing for me to get. I really like how they did the voting. The ref, for each game, rates the top three players. The first ranked player from each team gets three points, second gets two points, and third gets one point. At the end of the year they are tallied up and each club announces their B&F. It is kind of like MVP of the team.
I won with 21 points, second place got 17.
All in all a long day.
Sunday we were in McKinnon.
This week Brandon heads to Brisbane Tuesday - Thursday
By the end of this week it will be less than two weeks before I and the kids leave for the States.
Saturday was packed full, enough so that I barely took the time to eat breakfast and lunch.
Jolene had a birthday party to go to that morning. We had to leave early from that so I could get her to the ballet photo session. Each year the ballet group gets photos taken before the end of the year concert.
After that I went home and Brandon left to go shopping for a surfboard. His company gives each employee $500/year to spend on health and well being. For the second half of this year B decided to buy a board.
After he got back, I went grocery shopping. I was interrupted by a call from Brandon letting me know Adele had been hit by our swing in the middle of the forehead. She was bleeding profusely and needed to be taken to the doctor. I ran home, dumped the groceries, and took Adele to the doctor. The doctor put some glue in the gash and squeezed it shut until it began to dry. Put a few steri-strips on it and all better. Adele screamed while this was going on but held very still. She was a brave little girl.
After we got back from the doctor we fed the kids, put pajamas on, and then headed to McEwen's. They were watching our kids while Brandon and I went to my soccer club's end of the year dinner.
I was awarded best and fairest of 2009 for the Women's team. A very cool thing for me to get. I really like how they did the voting. The ref, for each game, rates the top three players. The first ranked player from each team gets three points, second gets two points, and third gets one point. At the end of the year they are tallied up and each club announces their B&F. It is kind of like MVP of the team.
I won with 21 points, second place got 17.
All in all a long day.
Sunday we were in McKinnon.
This week Brandon heads to Brisbane Tuesday - Thursday
By the end of this week it will be less than two weeks before I and the kids leave for the States.
23.10.09
Listening - The Francis Shaeffer Institute
I am listening to podcasts from the Francis Shaeffer Institute (Resources for Life).
I tend to download them onto my phone and then listen while I am doing my chores at night.
So far I have listened to...
1. Truly Educating the Whole Person by Susan Shaeffer Macualay.
This is one of four in a series entitled For the Children's Sake.
I tend to download them onto my phone and then listen while I am doing my chores at night.
So far I have listened to...
1. Truly Educating the Whole Person by Susan Shaeffer Macualay.
This is one of four in a series entitled For the Children's Sake.
2. The second one is a series entitled Justice at Home, Justice Abroad by Prof. Jerrum Barrs.
Number two sticks out in my head as especially good to listen to - When is it Right to Fight? The Just War and Modern War
3. The next one up on the phone is a series called Two Worlds Under One Roof: Bridging the Generation Gap by William Romanoski.
The four parts are entitled
- Christianity and Culture
- Developing a Christian Approach to Popular Art
- Looking At Hollywood Films
- Putting It All Together
plus the breakout sessions
- Perfect Parenting: Dream On, Parents! (Breakout Session)
- Made in Whose Image? God's or the Medias? (Breakout Session)
- New Family Models (Breakout Session)
I'll see how it goes...
Number two sticks out in my head as especially good to listen to - When is it Right to Fight? The Just War and Modern War
3. The next one up on the phone is a series called Two Worlds Under One Roof: Bridging the Generation Gap by William Romanoski.
The four parts are entitled
- Christianity and Culture
- Developing a Christian Approach to Popular Art
- Looking At Hollywood Films
- Putting It All Together
plus the breakout sessions
- Perfect Parenting: Dream On, Parents! (Breakout Session)
- Made in Whose Image? God's or the Medias? (Breakout Session)
- New Family Models (Breakout Session)
I'll see how it goes...
21.10.09
My day in comments, in chronological order
"Sorry kids, the library is closed today. We will go to the pet store now." (Today is Geelong Cup day. I forgot. No storytime.)
"Mom! I have poos...in my undies"
"Mom! I can't find Olive (the guinea pig)"
"Oh, I see a molar poking through (talking to Gids). I should give you some panadol."
"Jolene, do not draw on the table with your cheese!"
"Why is Gideon covered in blue chalk?!"
"Jolene you cannot smear the blue chalk right in front of the door like that. Gideon is covered in it and now it is all over his clothes, the couch, and the carpet."
"I love you mom" "I love you too"
"Jolene, you cannot climb in or out of windows! You are not allowed to take the screens out"
"I will be an hour late getting home tonight."
"Adele you need to go to the toilet." "Mommy, I have poos in my undies"
"you may not make a slide out of the suitcases. They just fell on Gideon"
The end to a long and messy day.
p.s. Too many messes to keep up with the water today. I will be happy if I get 3 in today.
"Mom! I have poos...in my undies"
"Mom! I can't find Olive (the guinea pig)"
"Oh, I see a molar poking through (talking to Gids). I should give you some panadol."
"Jolene, do not draw on the table with your cheese!"
"Why is Gideon covered in blue chalk?!"
"Jolene you cannot smear the blue chalk right in front of the door like that. Gideon is covered in it and now it is all over his clothes, the couch, and the carpet."
"I love you mom" "I love you too"
"Jolene, you cannot climb in or out of windows! You are not allowed to take the screens out"
"I will be an hour late getting home tonight."
"Adele you need to go to the toilet." "Mommy, I have poos in my undies"
"you may not make a slide out of the suitcases. They just fell on Gideon"
The end to a long and messy day.
p.s. Too many messes to keep up with the water today. I will be happy if I get 3 in today.
Water
Monday - 4.5 glasses
Tuesday - 5
Wednesday - so far 1.5
It is hard drinking 5 all the time. For useful purposes I might go down to 4 after this week.
Tuesday - 5
Wednesday - so far 1.5
It is hard drinking 5 all the time. For useful purposes I might go down to 4 after this week.
19.10.09
Challenge for this week
I have realized that I don't drink enough water. I get too busy feeding the kids that sometimes I end up not eating or drinking, or just not drinking. Seeing as your body needs a lot of water this is not a good habit to be in. So I am going to try to drink 5 of these every day this week. I think it will add up to 2.5 L / day. Not a bad amount.
Someone once told me it takes 6 weeks to set a good habit. I have four weeks until I leave for the States.
Someone once told me it takes 6 weeks to set a good habit. I have four weeks until I leave for the States.
I wonder where they are going?
18.10.09
As I promised
In the last write up I said I would post some pics of my new art. Here you go. The frames cost more than the art and I found them at the $2 shop. They were not $2, should I complain? I found the posters at Delicious Design League, they have awesome posters and art there. Website work comes in handy from time to time. I like free lancing.
Oh, I should mention that the Tokyo Police Club poster is special in that it is advertising for the Metro in Chicago. We have seen a few bands play there. I have a lot of respect for that venue. They are up on incoming bands and usually only charge around $15 ( see bottom right corner of poster) to get in. A far cry from the $100-150 it is here to see bands.
We bought one of the old pews from church. Here is where it is in our house. I need to get some baskets to put underneath and hooks above it for coats. Sometime in the newt (Brandon just pointed this error out to me, but I think it is funny so it is going to stay) few months that will probably happen.
One more picture, our cord drawer
Needs help, wouldn't you say?
Oh, I should mention that the Tokyo Police Club poster is special in that it is advertising for the Metro in Chicago. We have seen a few bands play there. I have a lot of respect for that venue. They are up on incoming bands and usually only charge around $15 ( see bottom right corner of poster) to get in. A far cry from the $100-150 it is here to see bands.
We bought one of the old pews from church. Here is where it is in our house. I need to get some baskets to put underneath and hooks above it for coats. Sometime in the newt (Brandon just pointed this error out to me, but I think it is funny so it is going to stay) few months that will probably happen.
One more picture, our cord drawer
Needs help, wouldn't you say?
16.10.09
Malaysia
Brandon was on a business trip to Malaysia this past week (Mon-Fri). He got back to our house around 2:30 this morning. He decided to take the rest of the day off, we were all smiles.
B and two others went over there to check on some suppliers. One does some powder coating for them and the other(or maybe the same company) is a die casting plant. B said the working conditions in the die casting plant were pretty bad. Not much skin protection from the molten metal and safety doors that were not in use. B used to work in a die casting plant back in Kokomo so he knows what it is like to be on the line working with the metal. From all of this he is wondering what responsibility (if any) as a buyer does his company have for the safety of those workers. I think he may talk to his boss about it a bit. There may not be a whole lot they can do seeing as though there is no ownership in that company.
So the first day there was work and then the second was free to walk around. They all forgot cameras so we only have pics from B's phone. B went to the China Town section later that night. I guess those sorts of markets don't really kick into gear until later in the evening. B said the cockroaches were doing well establishing themselves in the community.
Tuesday night I talked to B on the phone and could hear quite clearly the evening prayers from the mosque next door. A strange sound to us Westerners.
The girls were of course excited about the presents they received. We all got pashminas, long scarves that the Muslim women wear around their heads. Gids came away with some pretty funky flashcards with pictures of vehicles. They have the English and Chinese translations on them. I think I might borrow them for decorating. B also gave me some Ray Ban sunglasses, we assume they are knock offs because they only cost $3. I also got a dress and the girls got some cool stickers and origami paper.
We did fairly well while he was away. I am very thankful for all our friends here who took care of us while B was away. One friend babysat the girls so I could go shopping, another family had us over for dinner, another for lunch and a play, and still another for lunch and a play. Blessings from the church family.
The only major problem I had was sleeping. I had very fitful sleep every night. You know how you sleep when you bring your baby home from the hospital? Every single noise woke me up. A few weeks ago our car was broken into while parked out front. I think that may have contributed to the unease.
Tomorrow is Saturday. Going to a giant garage sale looking for kids clothes. Oh, I just bought some new art and put it up! I'll take some pics and post those soon.
B and two others went over there to check on some suppliers. One does some powder coating for them and the other(or maybe the same company) is a die casting plant. B said the working conditions in the die casting plant were pretty bad. Not much skin protection from the molten metal and safety doors that were not in use. B used to work in a die casting plant back in Kokomo so he knows what it is like to be on the line working with the metal. From all of this he is wondering what responsibility (if any) as a buyer does his company have for the safety of those workers. I think he may talk to his boss about it a bit. There may not be a whole lot they can do seeing as though there is no ownership in that company.
So the first day there was work and then the second was free to walk around. They all forgot cameras so we only have pics from B's phone. B went to the China Town section later that night. I guess those sorts of markets don't really kick into gear until later in the evening. B said the cockroaches were doing well establishing themselves in the community.
Tuesday night I talked to B on the phone and could hear quite clearly the evening prayers from the mosque next door. A strange sound to us Westerners.
The girls were of course excited about the presents they received. We all got pashminas, long scarves that the Muslim women wear around their heads. Gids came away with some pretty funky flashcards with pictures of vehicles. They have the English and Chinese translations on them. I think I might borrow them for decorating. B also gave me some Ray Ban sunglasses, we assume they are knock offs because they only cost $3. I also got a dress and the girls got some cool stickers and origami paper.
We did fairly well while he was away. I am very thankful for all our friends here who took care of us while B was away. One friend babysat the girls so I could go shopping, another family had us over for dinner, another for lunch and a play, and still another for lunch and a play. Blessings from the church family.
The only major problem I had was sleeping. I had very fitful sleep every night. You know how you sleep when you bring your baby home from the hospital? Every single noise woke me up. A few weeks ago our car was broken into while parked out front. I think that may have contributed to the unease.
Tomorrow is Saturday. Going to a giant garage sale looking for kids clothes. Oh, I just bought some new art and put it up! I'll take some pics and post those soon.
12.10.09
You have got to be kidding me
First off
Obama getting the peace prize. What a joke.
We've All Won the Nobel Booby Prize
Matti Ahtisasri, former Finish president and last year's Peace Prize winner, said the award should "encourage" Mr. Obama's Middle East peace efforts.
Exiled Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer said the honour would raise expectations for the US leader to stand up for human rights around the world.
Ms Kadeer, who has been tipped as a laureate for her fight on behalf of the Chinese minority group, said:
Secondly
An article I just read the 7News-Yahoo website
Obama getting the peace prize. What a joke.
We've All Won the Nobel Booby Prize
How do you win the Nobel Prize in just 12 days? Well, according to political pundit, columnist, and blogger Tommy De Seno over the last decade, the only discernible requirement has been to be "critical of George W. Bush--see Al Gore, Mohamed El Baradei, and Jimmy Carter."The heat is on...a few more quotes from The Australian. As Brandon was saying it should be called the Nobel Peace Bribe. Oh so true.
But, even by that standard, Barack Obama's giddy cheerleaders in Oslo have broken new ground. The deadline for the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize nominations was February 1. The president took office just 12 days before that--on January 20.
Matti Ahtisasri, former Finish president and last year's Peace Prize winner, said the award should "encourage" Mr. Obama's Middle East peace efforts.
"We do not yet have a peace in the Middle East...this time it was very clear that they wanted to encourage Obama to move on these issues," Mr. Ahtisaari told CNN. "This is a clear encouragement to do something on this issue. I wish him good luck."
Exiled Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer said the honour would raise expectations for the US leader to stand up for human rights around the world.
Ms Kadeer, who has been tipped as a laureate for her fight on behalf of the Chinese minority group, said:
"I am very happy that he got it. Now he has to do something with the award. It raises expectations on him to stand up for oppressed nations."In parent speak...here is a bribe now you better do what we want you to do. Why not make it a reward instead? Do something and then we will give it to you.
Secondly
An article I just read the 7News-Yahoo website
"A Tasmanian man who told police that murdering his wheelchair-bound former housemate was "better than any drug" has been sentenced to 35 years jail.Great, after a possible 22 years he could be back out. Way to go justice system! Show the country how valuable life is.
Aaron Streets, 24, of George Town, near Launceston, had convictions for rape and arson before fatally bashing and stabbing Dean Gower, 49, in Hobart on April 7.
He will be eligible for parole after serving 22 years of his sentence, handed down on Monday by Supreme Court Justice Shan Tennant for what she described as a brutal and sustained attack."
10.10.09
Long day today & new playgroup outreach
Today there was a protest against abortion in downtown Melbourne. We as a family plus another family from church went up together for the day.
The event was called March For The Babies. It was a walk from the Fitzroy Gardens to the Parliament House. Once we arrived at the Parliament House there were a few speakers, singing, and so on.
The weather was perfect for such a walk, we were thankful.
After the event (i.e. when all our young children began to loose it) we walked back to the gardens and had lunch. With our bellies full we headed to Fed. Square, then to a playground on the other side, and eventually passed the big Ferris wheel.
Oh, almost forgot. The girls and I stopped by a mock refugee camp put together by an organization somewhat like Doctors Without Borders (I can't actually remember their proper name right now). The setup was well thought out. They started out the tour by saying you had three minutes to leave your home, what are you going to grab? Adele said her blanket and passie. Good thinking 'Del. I'm sure a passie will be very useful in bribing the border patrols. They then walked you around to different refugee camps. We saw the living conditions, food rations (we eat way to much food), and other day to day objects that make up the world of a refugee.
Our tour guide was from Canada and had worked in Sudan. Unfortunately I didn't get a good chance to talk to her, would have been good to.
I think it would be such an eye open for us as a family to go and serve with people like this for a few months. I was wondering if the Barnabas Fund has any volunteer openings?
By the time we got back to the car everyone was dead tired. I drove the girls and B to the train station where they caught a ride back home. Gids and I met them at the station on the other end. The girls love riding the train, they get to see some of the things that their daddy is working on.
I have been asked by a friend to help her lead a playgroup at another church. This church holds two playgroups a week as an outreach to the community. I and my friend both see it as a good way to meet other moms in the community, an opportunity to share about our Christian lives, and a good way for our kids to socialize.
Oh, I should mention that my other playgroup has ended. All the kids are in day care and kinder for pretty much the entire week now, making it impossible to schedule meeting times.
So this new playgroup will be my take two in all of that. I am looking forward to meeting some new moms.
The event was called March For The Babies. It was a walk from the Fitzroy Gardens to the Parliament House. Once we arrived at the Parliament House there were a few speakers, singing, and so on.
The weather was perfect for such a walk, we were thankful.
After the event (i.e. when all our young children began to loose it) we walked back to the gardens and had lunch. With our bellies full we headed to Fed. Square, then to a playground on the other side, and eventually passed the big Ferris wheel.
Oh, almost forgot. The girls and I stopped by a mock refugee camp put together by an organization somewhat like Doctors Without Borders (I can't actually remember their proper name right now). The setup was well thought out. They started out the tour by saying you had three minutes to leave your home, what are you going to grab? Adele said her blanket and passie. Good thinking 'Del. I'm sure a passie will be very useful in bribing the border patrols. They then walked you around to different refugee camps. We saw the living conditions, food rations (we eat way to much food), and other day to day objects that make up the world of a refugee.
Our tour guide was from Canada and had worked in Sudan. Unfortunately I didn't get a good chance to talk to her, would have been good to.
I think it would be such an eye open for us as a family to go and serve with people like this for a few months. I was wondering if the Barnabas Fund has any volunteer openings?
By the time we got back to the car everyone was dead tired. I drove the girls and B to the train station where they caught a ride back home. Gids and I met them at the station on the other end. The girls love riding the train, they get to see some of the things that their daddy is working on.
I have been asked by a friend to help her lead a playgroup at another church. This church holds two playgroups a week as an outreach to the community. I and my friend both see it as a good way to meet other moms in the community, an opportunity to share about our Christian lives, and a good way for our kids to socialize.
Oh, I should mention that my other playgroup has ended. All the kids are in day care and kinder for pretty much the entire week now, making it impossible to schedule meeting times.
So this new playgroup will be my take two in all of that. I am looking forward to meeting some new moms.
28.9.09
Conversations with a toddler and preschooler cont.
A song Jolene and Adele made up and then sang for me.
"He can see us through the trees, He can see us through the houses."
"He can see us everywhere. Thats why we can't hide from God."
Sang in a random tune.
They are often talking about this subject. Trying to explain what a spirit is, is tricky. Trying to put it into words they can easily understand. I don't think I always do a great job. When the girls are scared we often tell them God is everywhere, and with you now. Which is where, I presume, the lyrics to the song are coming.
"He can see us through the trees, He can see us through the houses."
"He can see us everywhere. Thats why we can't hide from God."
Sang in a random tune.
They are often talking about this subject. Trying to explain what a spirit is, is tricky. Trying to put it into words they can easily understand. I don't think I always do a great job. When the girls are scared we often tell them God is everywhere, and with you now. Which is where, I presume, the lyrics to the song are coming.
26.9.09
Likes and ambitions
Once again I am going to say how much I really, really like Freecycle. Last week I picked up a huge bag of clothes for Gideon. Sizes ranged from 1 - 3. They were all in good condition and free! What could be better.
Last night over washing dished Brandon and I started talking once again about owning a house. We would love to build a house, doing most of the labour ourselves. I have been watching a show called Grand Designs. Lots of inspiration for building your own house, making it a green home, using sustainable designs, ans so forth.
The last few episodes have really focused on green building. One family used recycled tyres filled with dirt to make walls. Another family used straw bales for the walls.
Anyway I think it would be great to do something like that and then turn it into one giant unit study for the kids schooling.
They would learn how to work within a budget, make presentations, come up with designs, etc.
Of course this would have to wait until the kids are somewhere in their teens. Maybe by that time we will have the money actually saved up!
Anyway that is our dream.
I have begun ordering all the homeschooling books we will need for the next year or two. Now is a great time due to the AUD gaining strength against the USD. I seem to spend a lot of time just hunting down good prices. I did find some of what I wanted on a homeschooling classified site. eBay and Amazon have also been helpful.
We like some of Charlotte Mason's philosophy on education as well as the classical system. So I think we would be considered eclectic as far as our curriculum goes. I like to take pits N pieces and make our own.
We have been talking about what language to focus on. Either Spanish or French, any opinions?
One last like. The Grand Final. Nothing like getting together with some friends and watching the team you barrack for strive to win the final. Go Cats!
Last night over washing dished Brandon and I started talking once again about owning a house. We would love to build a house, doing most of the labour ourselves. I have been watching a show called Grand Designs. Lots of inspiration for building your own house, making it a green home, using sustainable designs, ans so forth.
The last few episodes have really focused on green building. One family used recycled tyres filled with dirt to make walls. Another family used straw bales for the walls.
Anyway I think it would be great to do something like that and then turn it into one giant unit study for the kids schooling.
They would learn how to work within a budget, make presentations, come up with designs, etc.
Of course this would have to wait until the kids are somewhere in their teens. Maybe by that time we will have the money actually saved up!
Anyway that is our dream.
I have begun ordering all the homeschooling books we will need for the next year or two. Now is a great time due to the AUD gaining strength against the USD. I seem to spend a lot of time just hunting down good prices. I did find some of what I wanted on a homeschooling classified site. eBay and Amazon have also been helpful.
We like some of Charlotte Mason's philosophy on education as well as the classical system. So I think we would be considered eclectic as far as our curriculum goes. I like to take pits N pieces and make our own.
We have been talking about what language to focus on. Either Spanish or French, any opinions?
One last like. The Grand Final. Nothing like getting together with some friends and watching the team you barrack for strive to win the final. Go Cats!
25.9.09
Shadow of the Kremlin
I just finished a book called Christians In The Shadow Of The Kremlin.
A small book filled with strong stories of those who lived under the communist rule of the Soviet Union.
The book is written by a couple who served as missionaries for the Slavic Gospel Association. The couple write of different encounters they had on one of their trips into Russia. On the way in they smuggle two suitcases full of Bibles and other Christian material. On the way out those suitcases are empty.
The book is a good reminder of those Christians who suffer on a daily basis for their faith. Towards the end of this book North Korea came to mind. Someday when communism falls there a similar book may be published.
This is an excerpt from the very last story.
Pyotr Petrovich is speaking to a believer by the name of Fyodr (an assumed name for protection)
Although times have change in Russia you could easily insert North Korea, Cuba, etc. into that space and it all still be very real.
A good reminder that we are not alone.
A small book filled with strong stories of those who lived under the communist rule of the Soviet Union.
The book is written by a couple who served as missionaries for the Slavic Gospel Association. The couple write of different encounters they had on one of their trips into Russia. On the way in they smuggle two suitcases full of Bibles and other Christian material. On the way out those suitcases are empty.
The book is a good reminder of those Christians who suffer on a daily basis for their faith. Towards the end of this book North Korea came to mind. Someday when communism falls there a similar book may be published.
This is an excerpt from the very last story.
Pyotr Petrovich is speaking to a believer by the name of Fyodr (an assumed name for protection)
'What can Christians in the West do to help the church in Russia? I questioned Fyodr while we sat at the dinner table drinking our glasses of hot tea.
'You can pray for us - and you can come and visit us and encourage us,' he smiled. His voice sobered, 'But you must continue sending the broadcasts and bringing in literature. There is no other way, Pyotr Petrovich, for us to have spiritual food.'...
'There is one more thing you can do, Pyotr Petrovich,' his voice fell to a whisper. he leaned towards me, 'Tell the Christians in the West about our victories and our problems as believers here in the Soviet Union. The more people know there - the easier it is for us here.'
Although times have change in Russia you could easily insert North Korea, Cuba, etc. into that space and it all still be very real.
A good reminder that we are not alone.
19.9.09
After 150 years it was time to say goodbye
This past Monday some of the men from church got together and finally pulled out all the old pews. We are gutting the inside of the church and doing some major repairs. New pews have been bought, a new floor will be going in, new carpet, and the pulpit will be lowered.
It is a very good thing that we are doing this now. Some of the pews were cracked all the way through and it was only a matter of time before someone fell through. They are pretty old so I think they have served the church well.
The floors are a mess. Extensive termite damage was found in the joists. So much so that when Brandon and some of the other guys stepped on them they crumbled into sawdust.
In the next few years the hall, which includes the kitchen and the creche, will be redone as well. Class rooms will be added, we have zero at the moment. A new kitchen built as well as a separate creche.
All the work on the church building has been difficult to get approved due to the age of the building. It is heritage listed so everything has to go through the heritage council. The fees for all this can be quite large...which I find annoying. I find it annoying that we have to seek approval from so many people to make changes to a building we have owned for 150 years.
Here are before and after pictures.
It is a very good thing that we are doing this now. Some of the pews were cracked all the way through and it was only a matter of time before someone fell through. They are pretty old so I think they have served the church well.
The floors are a mess. Extensive termite damage was found in the joists. So much so that when Brandon and some of the other guys stepped on them they crumbled into sawdust.
In the next few years the hall, which includes the kitchen and the creche, will be redone as well. Class rooms will be added, we have zero at the moment. A new kitchen built as well as a separate creche.
All the work on the church building has been difficult to get approved due to the age of the building. It is heritage listed so everything has to go through the heritage council. The fees for all this can be quite large...which I find annoying. I find it annoying that we have to seek approval from so many people to make changes to a building we have owned for 150 years.
Here are before and after pictures.
12.9.09
Happy Birthday Gids!
Where has this year gone? Gideon is already one!
What can I say except, Gids, we love having you in the family. He really has been a happy baby, such a blessing. A few days ago Jolene said she wanted to have another baby. I told her Gideon isn't that big yet.
The day of his birthday celebration I took the girls out to buy some decorations.
This is the conversation between Jolene and Adele
Adele: "Mommy, I want to get Gideon a pink balloon"
Jolene: "No Adele, boys don't like pink. They like blue and green and black. They can like a little pink just not a lot."
Adele: "ok"
Well on good advice we bought only boy, boy toys for birthday present. A big Tonka truck, a tractor, and a 69' Mustang Hot Wheels (that was my idea, or course!).
I think Gids likes the Mustang over the truck right now. Must mean we are training him correctly.
For the birthday dinner I made some pizzas.
spinach, pumpkin, and feta
chicken, ham, and bbq
1/2 veggie & the other 1/2 caramelized red capsicum, sun dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives
The pizzas were very yummy, if I do say so myself. I am actually getting quite hungry thinking about it. Might just have to have another bowl of cereal.
There was also birthday cake, nothing too elaborate. Yellow cake with dark chocolate icing. Decorated with 100s & 1000s and gummy bears.
I think Adele almost exploded trying to wait "patiently" the entire day for cake. She has the biggest sweet tooth ever...well except for me :-/
What can I say except, Gids, we love having you in the family. He really has been a happy baby, such a blessing. A few days ago Jolene said she wanted to have another baby. I told her Gideon isn't that big yet.
The day of his birthday celebration I took the girls out to buy some decorations.
This is the conversation between Jolene and Adele
Adele: "Mommy, I want to get Gideon a pink balloon"
Jolene: "No Adele, boys don't like pink. They like blue and green and black. They can like a little pink just not a lot."
Adele: "ok"
Well on good advice we bought only boy, boy toys for birthday present. A big Tonka truck, a tractor, and a 69' Mustang Hot Wheels (that was my idea, or course!).
I think Gids likes the Mustang over the truck right now. Must mean we are training him correctly.
For the birthday dinner I made some pizzas.
spinach, pumpkin, and feta
chicken, ham, and bbq
1/2 veggie & the other 1/2 caramelized red capsicum, sun dried tomatoes, and kalamata olives
The pizzas were very yummy, if I do say so myself. I am actually getting quite hungry thinking about it. Might just have to have another bowl of cereal.
There was also birthday cake, nothing too elaborate. Yellow cake with dark chocolate icing. Decorated with 100s & 1000s and gummy bears.
I think Adele almost exploded trying to wait "patiently" the entire day for cake. She has the biggest sweet tooth ever...well except for me :-/
The morning after: Trying to play with toys but big sisters getting in the way
Playing with the Mustang
Gids trying desperately to retrieve the stang.
4.9.09
Conversations with a toddler and preschooler cont.
Jolene: "ello"
Me: "Hello"
Jolene: "I can say hello in a different language...ello, ello"
Me: "I think you are watching too many British kids shows"
Australia tends to import as many British kids shows as American ones. One of our favorite British kids shows is 'Charley and Lola.' Adele is definitely Lola. So cute.
At dinner we were talking about how there are vitamins in our food.
Adele holds her broccoli up to her face.
Adele: "I don't see vitamins"
Adele: "Vitamins, where arrree youuuuu?"
On dancing -
Jolene trying to tap dance/clog as fast as she can.
Jolene: "Look, my feet are singing"
Jolene: "My feet are singing!"
On learning maths -
Jolene: "I can do one math"
Me: "Oh yeah? Like what?"
Jolene: "3 + 3 = 6"
Jolene: "Mom, my lung really hurts"
Me: "Your lung?"
Jolene: "When I eat food it hurts."
Me: "You mean your tongue?"
Jolene: "No, my lung" (points to her gums)
Me: "Your mean your gums?"
Jolene: giggles "I was confusing"
Me: "Hello"
Jolene: "I can say hello in a different language...ello, ello"
Me: "I think you are watching too many British kids shows"
Australia tends to import as many British kids shows as American ones. One of our favorite British kids shows is 'Charley and Lola.' Adele is definitely Lola. So cute.
At dinner we were talking about how there are vitamins in our food.
Adele holds her broccoli up to her face.
Adele: "I don't see vitamins"
Adele: "Vitamins, where arrree youuuuu?"
On dancing -
Jolene trying to tap dance/clog as fast as she can.
Jolene: "Look, my feet are singing"
Jolene: "My feet are singing!"
On learning maths -
Jolene: "I can do one math"
Me: "Oh yeah? Like what?"
Jolene: "3 + 3 = 6"
Jolene: "Mom, my lung really hurts"
Me: "Your lung?"
Jolene: "When I eat food it hurts."
Me: "You mean your tongue?"
Jolene: "No, my lung" (points to her gums)
Me: "Your mean your gums?"
Jolene: giggles "I was confusing"
Can't think of a title right now...
Brandon was in Adelaide yesterday. He didn't get home until really late. Late evening means sleeping in and making us breakfast the next day...which I like very much. Worked out well for today. I had the ladies Bible study over this morning. It was nice having Brandon feed the kids while I was preparing food and the house for company.
Brandon just found out that the Brisbane contract he has been working on was excepted. This is very good for them. He will be finishing up all his other projects and focusing only on this one for a while. I suppose that means lots more trips to Brisbane for him, perhaps we will join him on one of them. All those frequent flyer miles shouldn't go to waste.
Tonight we are all go shopping for Gideon's birthday. What do you buy little boys? I was thinking a Tonka truck...a metal one that will last 50 years. Any other good ideas? I am more experienced with girls right now.
Tomorrow my soccer team is in it's first finals game. We made it to the first round but are unfortunately playing the top team. If we can beat them tomorrow then next Saturday we will be playing in the grand final. I am hoping I get a few more penalty shots. Easy goals.
Brandon just found out that the Brisbane contract he has been working on was excepted. This is very good for them. He will be finishing up all his other projects and focusing only on this one for a while. I suppose that means lots more trips to Brisbane for him, perhaps we will join him on one of them. All those frequent flyer miles shouldn't go to waste.
Tonight we are all go shopping for Gideon's birthday. What do you buy little boys? I was thinking a Tonka truck...a metal one that will last 50 years. Any other good ideas? I am more experienced with girls right now.
Tomorrow my soccer team is in it's first finals game. We made it to the first round but are unfortunately playing the top team. If we can beat them tomorrow then next Saturday we will be playing in the grand final. I am hoping I get a few more penalty shots. Easy goals.
2.9.09
I'm an aunt!
Imogene was born on August 31st (my mom's b-day...good b-day present) to Shannon and Josh Soma.
They are all doing well.
This is a conversation I had with Jolene about it.
Jolene asked me "You have a sneeze?"
Me:"What? No I don't need to sneeze"
Jolene"No, you HAVE a sneeze."
Me:"Oh, you mean do I have a niece?"
Jolene:"Yes"
Me:"Yes, Imogene is my niece."
They are all doing well.
This is a conversation I had with Jolene about it.
Jolene asked me "You have a sneeze?"
Me:"What? No I don't need to sneeze"
Jolene"No, you HAVE a sneeze."
Me:"Oh, you mean do I have a niece?"
Jolene:"Yes"
Me:"Yes, Imogene is my niece."
26.8.09
Today
It rained and the wind whistled. Then it rained inside the house, on the computer. Thankfully Jolene alerted me to the fact so there wasn't any lasting damage to the computer. The joys of old houses.
Brandon has CAD training all this week. Which means really long days for him and me. Yesterday he wasn't back until after 8pm due to train delays. Today was 7pm. Who knows about the rest of the week. As I said above it has been really rainy so far this week. I am finding it difficult to keep the kids busy when not able to play outdoors. Tomorrow we will go to the library and ballet so that should be good. We had friends come over and play for most of this morning which was fun as well.
I planted our veggie/flower garden late last week. Good timing, seeing as though we are getting all this rain now. The snails have caught the scent of baby plants and are slowly, slowly attacking the basil. Where did I put that box of snail bait?????
I am trying to toilet train Adele before we fly back to the States. So far so good. As long as I remember to have her sit on the toilet from time to time we are good. She has not put up any resistance, much to my surprise. I think having an older sister helps. Jolene can makes things very fun.
Brandon has CAD training all this week. Which means really long days for him and me. Yesterday he wasn't back until after 8pm due to train delays. Today was 7pm. Who knows about the rest of the week. As I said above it has been really rainy so far this week. I am finding it difficult to keep the kids busy when not able to play outdoors. Tomorrow we will go to the library and ballet so that should be good. We had friends come over and play for most of this morning which was fun as well.
I planted our veggie/flower garden late last week. Good timing, seeing as though we are getting all this rain now. The snails have caught the scent of baby plants and are slowly, slowly attacking the basil. Where did I put that box of snail bait?????
I am trying to toilet train Adele before we fly back to the States. So far so good. As long as I remember to have her sit on the toilet from time to time we are good. She has not put up any resistance, much to my surprise. I think having an older sister helps. Jolene can makes things very fun.
20.8.09
Things to consider, Comfort holding us back?, Encouragment in labouring - there are rewards!
For some time now we have been traveling up to the McKinnon RP church once a month for their worship service. We and a few other families from church were asked to do this as a way to serve the small congregation and to encourage them. Brandon and some of the other men going up present the Psalms, lead the Children's talk, and occasionally preach.
For the past few months the congregation as begun to pray that two families would consider moving to McKinnon . Two families would provide labour, constant encouragement, and a witness to the surrounding community. We were asked to consider being one of those families.
So for the past few months we have been praying, thinking, and talking about what we should do, where God is leading us.
The McKinnon session asked us what it would take for us to move up there. Last night we sent them a reply laying out our thoughts, concerns, questions, etc.
Here are a few things to pray about.
1. We would desire to go up with another family (or single person). The McKinnon congregation consists of one family and 8 (or around that) other members over the age of forty. It would good to have two new families for labouring purposes and for the extra encouragement. We are also praying about what we should do if no one else wants to go (which as of right now there is no one). Should we go up alone or stay?
2. Financial needs. Housing prices are even higher in that area due to the high demand to get into the McKinnon school system and the proximity to the Melbourne inner city. Renting would cost another $400/month to what we are paying now if we get the cheapest there is. Buying is not really an option seeing as though house prices start at $350,000. The average selling prices is around $500,000. If we are to go we know God will provide in this area as he has so many times before.
3. Are we the ones? Just because we are putting our hands up doesn't mean we are the best ones for the job. We would pray that the McKinnon session would be guided in this decision.
We have become a bit disheartened with the absence of another family. This can play on our thinking. Praying that it doesn't cause discouragement.
4. Keeping our hearts in neutral -see below
In all of this there is a struggle to keep our hearts in neutral. I would say we are fighting the urge to remain in our comfortable state and let someone else do the moving. Comfort can be such a hindrance. We have a house we are comfortable in, we are settled in friendships, in our church, why change? I am not saying any of that is bad, I just think it can sometimes make us (B and I) lazy when considering our Kingdom work.
If we do this it will be hard. We will be leaving family again. We will be starting over socially. Our kids will have no one their ages to be around. Aside from that one family at McKinnon we will have not know anyone close to our own age. Financially our saving up for a house will be put on hold. God has provided in these ways once before, he will do it again.
Dave Long was here a few weeks ago and preached this sermon at Geelong's morning worship service.
It gave us some serious things to think about but also served as a great encouragement.
For the past few months the congregation as begun to pray that two families would consider moving to McKinnon . Two families would provide labour, constant encouragement, and a witness to the surrounding community. We were asked to consider being one of those families.
So for the past few months we have been praying, thinking, and talking about what we should do, where God is leading us.
The McKinnon session asked us what it would take for us to move up there. Last night we sent them a reply laying out our thoughts, concerns, questions, etc.
Here are a few things to pray about.
1. We would desire to go up with another family (or single person). The McKinnon congregation consists of one family and 8 (or around that) other members over the age of forty. It would good to have two new families for labouring purposes and for the extra encouragement. We are also praying about what we should do if no one else wants to go (which as of right now there is no one). Should we go up alone or stay?
2. Financial needs. Housing prices are even higher in that area due to the high demand to get into the McKinnon school system and the proximity to the Melbourne inner city. Renting would cost another $400/month to what we are paying now if we get the cheapest there is. Buying is not really an option seeing as though house prices start at $350,000. The average selling prices is around $500,000. If we are to go we know God will provide in this area as he has so many times before.
3. Are we the ones? Just because we are putting our hands up doesn't mean we are the best ones for the job. We would pray that the McKinnon session would be guided in this decision.
We have become a bit disheartened with the absence of another family. This can play on our thinking. Praying that it doesn't cause discouragement.
4. Keeping our hearts in neutral -see below
In all of this there is a struggle to keep our hearts in neutral. I would say we are fighting the urge to remain in our comfortable state and let someone else do the moving. Comfort can be such a hindrance. We have a house we are comfortable in, we are settled in friendships, in our church, why change? I am not saying any of that is bad, I just think it can sometimes make us (B and I) lazy when considering our Kingdom work.
If we do this it will be hard. We will be leaving family again. We will be starting over socially. Our kids will have no one their ages to be around. Aside from that one family at McKinnon we will have not know anyone close to our own age. Financially our saving up for a house will be put on hold. God has provided in these ways once before, he will do it again.
-In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Prov 16:9
Dave Long was here a few weeks ago and preached this sermon at Geelong's morning worship service.
It gave us some serious things to think about but also served as a great encouragement.
16.8.09
I like
Stalking Bearthe artwork by Ghostpatrol. Especially liking the pencil sets. Now if I could only find that $2,000 I misplaced somewhere around the house....
Ghostpatrol often collaborates with Miso, both residing in Melbourne. I like her work as well.
There is a mural of a boy sitting on a bird (first row, farthest to the right) in the city of Lorne. The proper name of the artwork is "bird guard". We always drive by it on the way to Kennet River. Marks the beginning of every Great Ocean road holiday for me. I would very much like to peel it off the brick and transport it to my living room.
5.8.09
Conversations with a toddler and preschooler cont.
I know I just posted one of these but this made me laugh today.
Jolene and I were talking about when Brandon was a little boy.
Jolene: "When Daddy was little then who was my daddy?"
Me: "Well, you were not born yet."
Jolene:"I didn't exist, you mean."
Me:"Yes, thats right."
Jolene:"Was I in a hotel?"
Jolene:"Why do you have a little smile?"
Jolene and I were talking about when Brandon was a little boy.
Jolene: "When Daddy was little then who was my daddy?"
Me: "Well, you were not born yet."
Jolene:"I didn't exist, you mean."
Me:"Yes, thats right."
Jolene:"Was I in a hotel?"
Jolene:"Why do you have a little smile?"
28.7.09
Conversations with a toddler & preschooler cont.
Adele: When I get older I going to fly to space.
Me: Oh yeah?
Adele: With Daddy.
Jolene: You have to work really hard to go to the moon.
Adele: I tink I hear sumping outside. I tink its rabbits.
Me: Rabbits?
Adele: Baaaaaddd rabbbits!
Some of Adele's favorite sayings when I say we need to clean up her room or that she has to eat her dinner.
"I weally don't feel well"
"I'm sick"
"This is not my favorite"
Me: Oh yeah?
Adele: With Daddy.
Jolene: You have to work really hard to go to the moon.
Adele: I tink I hear sumping outside. I tink its rabbits.
Me: Rabbits?
Adele: Baaaaaddd rabbbits!
Some of Adele's favorite sayings when I say we need to clean up her room or that she has to eat her dinner.
"I weally don't feel well"
"I'm sick"
"This is not my favorite"
Watermelon helps hurting gums!
Playing ball with Gideon
Storytime with Grandpa Steve
20.7.09
First book read, pneumonia, food fights
Jolene is reading now! This past week she finished three of the Bob books. Today she was excited about it and said "now I can read myself books!"
It will be a while before that happens but it is exciting to see her on the way to reading. I have to say the Bob books are not the most exciting but the progression in difficulty is good for Jolene. i am also doing the Phonics Museum (by Veritas Press) with her. We started at the beginning but she already knows all the material we are doing. I am trying to do two or three lessons with her a day so that we can get to the sections that she doesn't know yet.
I like this curriculum. I like how they incorporate art and some kind of craft into every lesson. For instance the day we went over the "b" sound we made butter.
I actually cheated a bit because all of our arms were getting tired of shaking. So I poured the cream into the mixer for a few seconds to speed up the process :-) The girls thought this was pretty cool.
We are talking about the "p" sound right now. Tomorrow we will paint a picture of an Iris using the pointillism technique (not my idea, the books).
So like I said I like this and will try to use it with the other two. Jolene I have to say was just ready and didn't need much prompting. I am sure it will be a whole different ball game with Adele.
Pneumonia is what my parents came home with after visiting us :-/ I think we all had the flu at some point as well. I think I might have had pneumonia too. At one of my soccer games I couldn't really breathe and was coughing horribly.
Mom said she doesn't want to come back in the winter...I guess I don't blame her. Have to say though the summer can be unpleasant. Especially when those 40+ days come around.
So Brandon and I have been having some major struggles with Adele recently concerning food. She will come to the table take a look at the food and in that second decide if she likes it or not. If she likes it then she happily chows down. If she doesn't like it then world war three ensues. We have decided that she must have at least five bites. I am not a restaurant cook and am not going to make special meals for every person in the house. If she doesn't have five bites then she is in trouble. If she eats it all she might get dessert (if we area having any).
Last week she went to bed hungry three times(in a row), plus a breakfast, and a lunch because the food was not to her liking. We made her have the five bites but that alone took 30 minutes due to several trips to the bedroom. She will often spit the food out as well if she doesn't like it (this tests my self-control).
What can I say except she is very stubborn. At times seems like we are not making any headway, in fact it seems like we are going backwards.
Today was a new day. She ate her porridge...and only complained once. This is a major accomplishment for her. So I made pizza for dinner, Adele's favourite.
I am praying that God will break down this stubbornness and give her self-control over it. At times this character quality can be good (it helped me get through bio-chemistry) but only if you know how to control it.
It will be a while before that happens but it is exciting to see her on the way to reading. I have to say the Bob books are not the most exciting but the progression in difficulty is good for Jolene. i am also doing the Phonics Museum (by Veritas Press) with her. We started at the beginning but she already knows all the material we are doing. I am trying to do two or three lessons with her a day so that we can get to the sections that she doesn't know yet.
I like this curriculum. I like how they incorporate art and some kind of craft into every lesson. For instance the day we went over the "b" sound we made butter.
I actually cheated a bit because all of our arms were getting tired of shaking. So I poured the cream into the mixer for a few seconds to speed up the process :-) The girls thought this was pretty cool.
We are talking about the "p" sound right now. Tomorrow we will paint a picture of an Iris using the pointillism technique (not my idea, the books).
So like I said I like this and will try to use it with the other two. Jolene I have to say was just ready and didn't need much prompting. I am sure it will be a whole different ball game with Adele.
Pneumonia is what my parents came home with after visiting us :-/ I think we all had the flu at some point as well. I think I might have had pneumonia too. At one of my soccer games I couldn't really breathe and was coughing horribly.
Mom said she doesn't want to come back in the winter...I guess I don't blame her. Have to say though the summer can be unpleasant. Especially when those 40+ days come around.
So Brandon and I have been having some major struggles with Adele recently concerning food. She will come to the table take a look at the food and in that second decide if she likes it or not. If she likes it then she happily chows down. If she doesn't like it then world war three ensues. We have decided that she must have at least five bites. I am not a restaurant cook and am not going to make special meals for every person in the house. If she doesn't have five bites then she is in trouble. If she eats it all she might get dessert (if we area having any).
Last week she went to bed hungry three times(in a row), plus a breakfast, and a lunch because the food was not to her liking. We made her have the five bites but that alone took 30 minutes due to several trips to the bedroom. She will often spit the food out as well if she doesn't like it (this tests my self-control).
What can I say except she is very stubborn. At times seems like we are not making any headway, in fact it seems like we are going backwards.
Today was a new day. She ate her porridge...and only complained once. This is a major accomplishment for her. So I made pizza for dinner, Adele's favourite.
I am praying that God will break down this stubbornness and give her self-control over it. At times this character quality can be good (it helped me get through bio-chemistry) but only if you know how to control it.
4.7.09
Something short
My parents are here. We are having fun. Post more pics and thoughts later.
Happy 4th of July.
Happy 4th of July.
21.6.09
Conversations with a toddler cont.
One night as we were getting into the car...
Adele looking up at the night sky: "Wow, that is amazing"
Me: "What Adele, the stars?"
Adele: "Yes, God is amazing"
Amen, Adele. Amen.
Have you looked at the stars recently?
Adele looking up at the night sky: "Wow, that is amazing"
Me: "What Adele, the stars?"
Adele: "Yes, God is amazing"
Amen, Adele. Amen.
Have you looked at the stars recently?
Psalm 19:1
1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
17.6.09
Books
I am sick. I feel like every muscle in my body has been taken out pounded with a meat cleaver and then put back. Fever, chills, aches, the flu has descended upon our house. I will be very sad if the kids get this.
Reading two books right now. The first is called What is Faith by J. Gresham Machen. This is the type of book that requires you to have a dictionary nearby. I think I will have to read it a few more times before I get everything he is trying to say.
A section that I just read and liked
Speaking of modernism and new religions...read this article.
The second book I am reading is Seeing with New Eyes - Counseling and the Human Condition Through the Lens of Scripture by David Powlison. This is actually book one of three written by Powlison on counseling. I often feel very inadequate in my responses to people who are dealing with some very hard issues. Thus the reason for reading this book.
I am not very far into this one yet. The point that has stuck with me so far is how important the Psalms are. This quote is challenging.
Reading two books right now. The first is called What is Faith by J. Gresham Machen. This is the type of book that requires you to have a dictionary nearby. I think I will have to read it a few more times before I get everything he is trying to say.
A section that I just read and liked
A true Reformation would be characterized by just what is missing in the Modernism of the present day; it would be characterized above all by an heroic honesty which for the sake of principle would push all consideration of consequences aside.I pray that I would be more in character as those who are mentioned above.
Such a Reformation we on our parts believe to be needed today; only, we believe that it would be brought about, not by a new religion which consists in imitation of the reduced Jesus of modern naturalism, but by the rediscovery of the gospel of Christ.
But this new Reformation for which we long will not be brought about by human persuasions, or by consideration of consequences, or by those who seek to save souls through the skillful use of ecclesiastical influences, or by those who refrain form speaking the truth through fear of "splitting the Church" or of making a poor showing in columns of Church statistics. How petty, in the great day when the Spirit of God again moves in the Church, all such considerations will seem!
No, when the true Reformation comes, it will comes through the instrumentality of those upon whom God has laid His hand, to whom the gospel has become a burning fire within them, who speak because they are compelled to speak, who, caring nothing for human influences and conciliation and external Church combinations and the praise or blame of men, speak the word that God has given them and trust for the results to Him alone. In other words, it will be brought about by men of faith.
Speaking of modernism and new religions...read this article.
The second book I am reading is Seeing with New Eyes - Counseling and the Human Condition Through the Lens of Scripture by David Powlison. This is actually book one of three written by Powlison on counseling. I often feel very inadequate in my responses to people who are dealing with some very hard issues. Thus the reason for reading this book.
I am not very far into this one yet. The point that has stuck with me so far is how important the Psalms are. This quote is challenging.
Rather, "psalms" provide a paradigm for a living, speaking faith in Christ. To be "filled with the Spirit" is to have your language alive to God, both your daily conversations with others and the inward conversation within your heart. Your cognitive stream-of-consciousness and your social interactions are meant to be pslam-like and psalm-informed. That includes the ability to quote a pslam in a timely and relevant way, but it is something much more. Paul calls you to a lifestyle of joyous dependence on Christ, to live in faith like the Psalms.
11.6.09
Dress up/ my girls have been compromised/ last day
So this is what Brandon is wearing to work tomorrow. He has to go out on the tracks to investigate some problems. I kid you not the jacket weighs like 5 lbs.
It is actually two coats that snap together. One can turn into a vest in the hot months.
The boots weigh about 5 lbs. each.
The safety glasses are too big for my head.
Good thing I am not the one actually having to wear this stuff.
So Addie and Moriah surprised my girls with t-shirts to a very popular movie. They also brought the movie along for them to watch with the girls.
I must say that they are not usually allowed to watch such things and now their little brains have been compromised. Brandon was shaking his head when he came home.
The movie was Highschool Musical 3. Yes, never has this house seen such a girlie/chick flick/ teenie bopper movie. Hopefully it will be years down the road before it ever happens again :-)
Sadly, tomorrow is our last day with Addie and Moriah. Where has 7 weeks gone? We are thankful for the visit with them. It was good spending so much time with them and getting to know them more. I feel as if we really miss out on knowing our siblings living this far away. Lord willing more will come to visit in the future....and maybe stay for good :-)
It has been great having the extra help. I can get all three kids in the car at once! I don't have to clean the house on my own. Ummm, I could go on and on.
It is always a blessing when our friends and family in the States can get to know our friends over here. We are thankful that God has allowed us to live in a time where traveling long distances is so relatively easy. What a blessing.
I am tired and need to go over my Bible study questions for tomorrow. See you on the flip side.
It is actually two coats that snap together. One can turn into a vest in the hot months.
The boots weigh about 5 lbs. each.
The safety glasses are too big for my head.
Good thing I am not the one actually having to wear this stuff.
So Addie and Moriah surprised my girls with t-shirts to a very popular movie. They also brought the movie along for them to watch with the girls.
I must say that they are not usually allowed to watch such things and now their little brains have been compromised. Brandon was shaking his head when he came home.
The movie was Highschool Musical 3. Yes, never has this house seen such a girlie/chick flick/ teenie bopper movie. Hopefully it will be years down the road before it ever happens again :-)
Sadly, tomorrow is our last day with Addie and Moriah. Where has 7 weeks gone? We are thankful for the visit with them. It was good spending so much time with them and getting to know them more. I feel as if we really miss out on knowing our siblings living this far away. Lord willing more will come to visit in the future....and maybe stay for good :-)
It has been great having the extra help. I can get all three kids in the car at once! I don't have to clean the house on my own. Ummm, I could go on and on.
It is always a blessing when our friends and family in the States can get to know our friends over here. We are thankful that God has allowed us to live in a time where traveling long distances is so relatively easy. What a blessing.
I am tired and need to go over my Bible study questions for tomorrow. See you on the flip side.
4.6.09
Preaching, Youth Camp, bits N pieces
Last Sunday Brandon was asked to preach at the McKinnon church. He was asked to fill in for Pastor McEwen who was away. Brandon had previously attended a preaching class held at the Geelong church for those interested in learning how to put together a sermon, understand how to prepare, and get a sense if they are being called for that sort of ministry.
Brandon isn't feeling called to be a preacher at this moment in time. The class was good though in showing him how much work it takes in preparing a sermon.
Preaching at McKinnon seemed to go well. Our kids didn't blow up half-way through, the sound system held together, and the Psalms were not so obscure that the older people it the congregation (pretty much everyone) couldn't sing them.
Brandon did hear later on that he talked a bit too fast and his accent made it hard for the older people to follow. I'm sure practice would help with the first but I don't think there is anything he can do about the second.
This weekend we were planning on enjoying worshipping at Geelong but have been called away last minute to the youth camp at Dixons Creek. I wish I could say the reason for us being there is a happy one but sadly some friends of ours are going through a difficult time and felt like they should rest from serving at the camp. We are gladly filling in, I just wish it wasn't because of the trial God has laid on them.
You could pray for them. I know I haven't given many details but if you have ever been through a hard time you will know a few things to pray for.
So because we are going to camp this weekend it will be the fourth out of the last five weeks we have not been to Geelong for worship. McKinnon, Frankston (leading a youth group trip), Geelong (but I didn't go b/c Adele was sick), McKinnon (Brandon preaching), and this Sunday at Dixon's Creek.
I am not sure how I feel about being gone so much...it is hard to be part of a church when you are not there. I think in the future we may need to be more careful about how we plan our away times. Just making sure they are spread out a bit more.
We made $250 at the garage sale. I don't know if this is a lot in the garage sale world. I was happy with it though. I think we will give $130 to the Barnabas Fund and then another $70 to the Bush Fire relief. The extra $50 from selling our old fridge, tv, and outdoor furniture was used to take us and B's sisters out for dinner and ice cream in St. Kilda. We thought we would treat them seeing as though they helped a lot with setting up and manning the garage sale.
Brandon isn't feeling called to be a preacher at this moment in time. The class was good though in showing him how much work it takes in preparing a sermon.
Preaching at McKinnon seemed to go well. Our kids didn't blow up half-way through, the sound system held together, and the Psalms were not so obscure that the older people it the congregation (pretty much everyone) couldn't sing them.
Brandon did hear later on that he talked a bit too fast and his accent made it hard for the older people to follow. I'm sure practice would help with the first but I don't think there is anything he can do about the second.
This weekend we were planning on enjoying worshipping at Geelong but have been called away last minute to the youth camp at Dixons Creek. I wish I could say the reason for us being there is a happy one but sadly some friends of ours are going through a difficult time and felt like they should rest from serving at the camp. We are gladly filling in, I just wish it wasn't because of the trial God has laid on them.
You could pray for them. I know I haven't given many details but if you have ever been through a hard time you will know a few things to pray for.
So because we are going to camp this weekend it will be the fourth out of the last five weeks we have not been to Geelong for worship. McKinnon, Frankston (leading a youth group trip), Geelong (but I didn't go b/c Adele was sick), McKinnon (Brandon preaching), and this Sunday at Dixon's Creek.
I am not sure how I feel about being gone so much...it is hard to be part of a church when you are not there. I think in the future we may need to be more careful about how we plan our away times. Just making sure they are spread out a bit more.
We made $250 at the garage sale. I don't know if this is a lot in the garage sale world. I was happy with it though. I think we will give $130 to the Barnabas Fund and then another $70 to the Bush Fire relief. The extra $50 from selling our old fridge, tv, and outdoor furniture was used to take us and B's sisters out for dinner and ice cream in St. Kilda. We thought we would treat them seeing as though they helped a lot with setting up and manning the garage sale.
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