Peace love & mung beans!

Fairy is done

2010-02-01T12:34:00.003+11:00

Here she is all done..

She is by Brooke's Book and she is called Spirit of Holiday Giving Angel.

She was a pleasure to stitch and assemble and I now cannot wait to start the other one I have Spirit of Cross Stitch.

Now on to a WIP Another fairy a mid summer nights fairy. I thought I had done more of her than I have. I might have a sit with her this afternoon ;)

Nise xx

Back to school 2010

2010-02-01T12:31:00.002+11:00

My Babies.....

2010-01-19T08:02:00.010+11:00

Morning all

Have had a productive week and managed to achieve a lot in one area or another :)

Here is my fairy. I still have beading to complete then can start her wings.

As most of you know Monday last week Melbourne's Temperature got up into the 40's I have a kids wading pool and a portable spa. I got them both out and set them up on the front deck. I filled the pool from our water tank and the kids were able to have a splash and cool off. I might add the adults also were able to cool off one the kidlets were finished :)

My Shannon 13 & My AJ 10.

School Holidays on on the downward spiral thankfully. The kids are bored. 6 weeks if one can afford a holiday or endless shopping trips is OK. I have finished all the back to school shopping. They could all do with new school shoes so we might go do that next week.

I am trying to get back onto my diet. I have been behaving but need to knuckle down and get serious again. I had great success before Christmas and have only put 1 kilo back on but can see how quickly that could turn to more. My weakness good coffee with full cream milk several times a day......

On that subject off to make one.... I am restricting myself to 3 a day.... wish me luck ;)

Nise

2010-01-12T14:52:00.005+11:00

ARGGHHHH I started a post and lost it :( Man I am so peeved....

BASICALLY I was trying to share with you my latest creations....

First one is a key chart I as playing about with the back is a scrap of pint floral I had so I used variegated pink for the key itself.

And here is Brookes Books The Spirit of Giving. I also have the Spirit of Christmas. I do not like the perforated paper very much but I like the end results...

This is the one I am waiting on the beads for. Bet they arrive tomorrow when I am walking out the door for work :)

Off to stitch :)

Nise

2009-12-09T19:51:00.006+11:00

Hello Bloggers it has been a while...

Too much has happened so not even going to try and update you....

BUT I wanted to post a couple of picture... One is our Coral from my local paper

And then there is my Just Nan finish... the ghosts glow in the dark....
And Dragon Rampant for Aj's teacher.... just need to frame him

Ok I am going to TRY and start posting on a more regular basis. I do not have as much on my plate in the new year and "Should" have more time on my hands.

Stay tuned :)

Nise

2009-09-21T08:50:00.003+10:00

Hello Fellow Blogers

Today is Monday September 21st. My Birthday. Yep 21 again!

School holidays here in Melbourne so have kidlets to entertain for 2 weeks.. The biggest one is out and about with a cousin for a day or so and I am home today and tomorrow so that should make the younger two easier to manage.

I have to try and get in to get my nails done today. They are so long I cant do anything. Typing is particularly hard.....

I am making a cake later with AJ and Shan is helping me later make roast chicken for dinner.

The sun is shining what more can a girl ask for ;)

Have a great day all

Nise (still 21)

2009-09-03T10:39:00.002+10:00

Here I am alive and well

I am not sure who reads this blog. I do this for me. It is like therapy for me to be able to vent. I do not have the time anymore to sit with a friend and have coffee and chat or catch up so I vent here.

UPDATE....

MIL is still at rehab. Doing well just not making rapid improvements. She still needs help with everything from brushing her hair to eating her meals. She is very aware of whats going on and able to chat with you etc but she is vague sometimes. It is called Vascular dementia. She was perfectly normal before the stroke but has dementia now. She is starting to show typical dementia signs aggression, depression moods all over the place. She has also become VERY vocal and has no ability to keep things in. she says exactly what she is thinking and dosnt care who hears. She can appear very rude.

They are still working towards getting her home but not sure how long that will take. Will have to wait and see.

All is well in my camp. The kids are fantastic. Jake has been driving around clocking up hours in his log book. He is doing really well but needs to listen to his mother! Shannon is enjoying high school and finally learning how to deal with those bitchy girls. She is much happier. Adam is still my funny little monkey man. He is doing so well at school this year. I think having a male teacher has made a HUGE difference in him.

I have finished a blanket for MIL in her team Collingwood colors. I hated making it I detest Collingwood. GO Tigers......

I also stitched a bit over the last couple of days. I have not done any for months. I need to make some Christmas ornaments before November so should extract digit.

Ok enough rambling I need to go see what I can create for tea.

Have a good one until next time bye bye

Nise

2009-08-12T22:19:00.002+10:00

Have ya missed me????????????

Ok been busy I am sure I will forget something but this is the basics.....

On July 21st Mother in law had major stroke. happened at 11:45pm and father in law carried her to bed cause he thought she was tired???????????? then rang us at 5am next morning to ask for help as she couldn't move. She stayed in hospital for 7 days then was moved to a rehab center.

The low down is she is completely paralyzed down left side. Dr's have said she will not walk and are looking at a wheel chair for her. Problem is she will not be able to come home until she is low level care at the moment she is high level and they do not think this is going to change. Family meeting is Monday to discuss nursing homes etc.

On the 23rd my bestest friend in the whole world came for a long weekend. We had a blast and she really helped me deal with things. I am sorry we could do what we had planned but we still had a gret time and I was so very sad leaving the airport :(

I have not stitched sewed or done ANYTHING for me since before the stroke. My life has been consumed with DH's family. Has been interesting.

I have decided to make Mother in law a rug for her bed. all the other patients have something so I am going to make her a colloingwood croceted type thing. I might go to Kmart tomorrow and look for the wool. They make up quick and it dosnt need to be too big so should be done over the weekend I hope.

I also had a job intrview for a position whitin the same company I am working for now just a different store and job. There were 2 positions and I got accepted for one of them but not the one I wanted so turned it down. Not worth the extra k's for something I am not really intersted in doing. So I guess I keep looking.

Thats it for now I am tired and headachy

Night all

Nise

2009-07-03T12:43:00.004+10:00

Well it is the end of the first week of school holidays and so far so good. No one has had to die although they have come close. Lets see what the new week bring.... ;)

I have managed to get the house in order and can relax a bit. I cannot relax when there is stuff to be done. I am looking forward to doing some me stuff. Tax this weekend then me stuff next week.

Jake has been driving. He is a natural. I thought I would be nervous but he is so calm and it makes me calm. the weather has not been the best so he hasnt done much but we need to practice parking next so we can actually go places not just drive around :) he has driven to Nana's and thought that was cool. He wouldn't get out of the car until they came out to see he was driving.

I must have slept funny I have a really stiff sore neck. I am waiting for Col to get home and rub some deep heat into it cause the kids run far away when they smell that stuff. They reckon it smells like old dead people. Maybe they are right.

OK need to get a move on am taking kid the the movies this arvo. pj pants are not cool for the pictures.

Nise

2009-06-23T21:52:00.002+10:00

It's been a while since I said hello so HELLO...

I have had a lot going on over the past few weeks and have found little time for blogging etc. I have not touched a craft project in ages. I want to I am just too tired by the time I get me time. But all should settle down now. Thankfully.

I am on holidays as of Friday YIPPEEE 2 weeks off. Yes it will be school holidays but I have plans for things to do with the kids so we will keep out of trouble :)

This week and last Jake has been doing work experience with an Electrician. He is having a ball and has pretty much decided this is they way he wants to go. He also started a part time job at Target during this time and likes that too. He is a money junkie and anything he can do to make money is good. He also turned 16 on Sunday and today sat for his learners permit which he passed 94%. Naturally that meant we had to go driving. He did an hour and then we were both ready to come home. Heahs a proper lesson on Saturday with an instructor.

Shan has to find a new Bass teacher. The lady who she has is a guitar teacher not Bass so she has learnt all she can from her and needs to move on. I have a name of a teacher and need to make a call.

Had parent teacher interview with AJ's teacher tonight and he is doing really well. This teacher has helped him re learn how to write with his crook hand. So we may not have to have surgery if he can manage a pen etc. Will speak to his specialist in August and see what he says? He couldnt have the surgery til he turned 1o. He is now 10 so we need to think about it sooner rateher than later.

Col has been busy building his trailer. It is coming along well and is now up to paint. We went and brought new brake stuff for it last week and some other bits he couldnt fabricate. He has made pretty much most of the parts himself I am so proud of what he has done.

We have had one confirmed case of Swine flu at the primary schoool. Apparently they dont close the school now just warn the community. We ahve all been crook but not had swine flu. I thought Col may have had it yesterday and took him to the DR but nope just a cold with a fever.... He is on meds and feeling heaps better today thankfully.

Ok time for bed me thinks I am tired and up early with Jake for work tomorrow.

Nise

Vintage Sampler by Marg Low

2009-05-28T15:03:00.004+10:00

My stitchery purse.. I hunted high and low for the measuring tape binding for the pull cord. I wanted it to have numerals on it somewhere. I am really pleased with how it turned out and amd happy now I spent so much money on the charms. between the 3 (snail,hummingbird & bunny) it cost me $48. I adore the snail and think I might get another one for a Just Nan Biscornu I am working on.

The purse is lined and I think the sewing machine and I are starting to understand one another ;) It went so smoothly I think I am ready to up the anti and make something more complicated.

Nise

2009-05-28T15:03:00.000+10:00

My stitchery purse..

2009-05-06T09:02:00.003+10:00

Good morning one and all

Been a while so thought I would say HELLO

Have been busy yet not getting much done if that makes any sense...

I have completed a few jobs that you cant see but I know needed to be done and now have been done Like windows and washing of mattress protectors that sort of thing. So I feel good knowing I have done stuff.

I would love to have more time for my crafts and other indulgences but with a family to care for I am not finding much time for me. Oh well that's what retirement is for hey... I have to keep reminding myself I have 3 kids the youngest 9, a house to run, a business to juggle and my own job that takes me away for 18 3/4 hours a week. If you were to add it all up there isn't much time left.

So in saying that I am off to make a coffee and straighten my hair before heading off to play nice to the public at work.

More soon

Nise

2009-04-16T07:58:00.003+10:00

Morning all...

The day went well and was generally a good day.

It was nice to catch up with the ladies I work with. We have become close. Well some of us have ;)

I was thrilled to find out the one of the ladies who has spent over $50k on IVF is finally pregnant. She has a scan next Friday to see how many babies there are. This was her last attempt as no more eggs and last year she had her ovaries removed. I was crying with her as she told me. worst part I couldn't tell anyone cause she has only told a select few she works closely with. She is 9 weeks and due in Mid November. Straight after work I went to Lincraft and got some baby wool and have started a baby set then thought CRAP what if there are more than one baby so I am going back today to get more wool just in case :)

The kids were OK at Grans yesterday. Shan hated it but AJ was ok. They are going back today but at lunch time. They can have the morning here MSNing etc then wander down for lunch.

Yes Sham thats the tea room and I can't wait to take you. I am getting VERY excited.

Ok off to straighten the hair (looks like a birch broom in a fit) then off to work.

OH sold some stuff on Ebay... 2 Auctions actually. One I have listed as posted etc but keep getting emails where is it. Mind you the auction ended Easter Monday and I posted Tuesday. She is in far north Queensland. I have listed the item as shipped and replyed to her emails. This could be fun. The other was a pattern I charged $4 postage. I got a padded bag etc and it cost me around $3 I guess in the end to post and she is whining about the cost of postage. I did explain the postage price was listed etc but she left good feedback. I am not sure I like Ebay now. Too stressful.

Nise

2009-04-15T08:08:00.002+10:00

Wasting time til I have to leave for work...

I have had 11 days away from that place and am not really looking forward to going back. I know if I left it any longer I wouldn't want to go back so it is probably a good thing that I go back today.

I have achieved a l lot while on holidays. I managed to complete a few projects that were hanging about and I even cleaned the house and caught up on the laundry. Dishwasher,Washing machine & drier worked their little hearts out while I stitched. Perfect I thought.

I am hopeful of some good news from work today. I need to change my hours (school run conflicts) and am finding out today whats happening. Will be better for me but no sure if they could wangle what I need. Will soon see I guess.

Not sure what is on for the weekend ahead. all depends on weather and kids commitments. I wouldn't mind a drive in the hills for arvo tea at some stage. last time we went up we found the cutest little tea rooms and they were such nice people that I can't wait to get back there.

Ok wastd enough time rabbiting on.... Wish me luck!

Nise

2009-04-08T11:30:00.001+10:00

2009-04-08T09:37:00.003+10:00

This is what I have been up to. I got a pattern from a Handmade Magazine and fiddled with it and made a "thing" for my chair to hold my stitching stuff. The sewing machine and I made friends over this one I can tell you.

The I love Cross Stitch was from the online magazine The Gift of Stitching. It was a back issue (#30) and I t was fun to stitch. I added the hand painted button instead of a stitched heart. I am going to figure out how to finish/frame it today. The Bisconu is a Just Nan design I stitched a few years ago and stumbled across in my pile of finish of somedays. I decided to make it up into a Biscornu. These little Just Nans are the perfect size for them. I have several of these in the to do folder.

I also finished the 2008 EMS sampler but have not taken a pic yet. You all know what that one looks like anyway.

I am stitching a Strawberry Emery today. It is also from The Gift of Stitching Mag. Not a bad little Magazine that one.

Nise

2009-04-08T08:54:00.003+10:00

I got this yesterday in a cute little Stitchy store in Lilydale. I also got the charm (needed them for various projects) and the Enamel embellishments are for the Marg Low purse. They were just so cute I had to have them.

I can't for the love of me recall what I need the Acorn or the pear for but it was on my list of get when you see things. I am sure it will come to me. I have a box full off buttons and charms and I will keep them separate in there until I remember what they were for. I know the Peacock is for a Just Nan project and the others could be too. I lover her stuff.

Quiet day here today. I am just back from taking my car in to get the Auto serviced. I have ahd the car 3 years and never had it done. We have donated the car to Jake and I want it to be safe etc. We are not going to get a new car until the new year he wont be 18 for a while so I can still drive it etc. He has already saved and got a new stereo and speakers and has half the money
for a new paint job. Mind you it dosnt need one but he dosnt want a white car. What would I know I am only the mother.

Feeling like I am getting a sore throat today. always the way on holidays and bang get something. I am well stocked with throat lollies etc so might go start sucking them.

Bye for now

2009-04-06T08:06:00.003+10:00

Morning all from a sunny but wet FernTree Gully.

2 outta 3 kids are still sleeping so I am trying not to make too much noise and enjoy a bit of quiet PC time. Once the holidays hit I struggle to get near this thing.

I have been rather productive and finished a few projects. I have felt overwhelmed and over committed of late and always feeling like I should be doing something.
Here is some of what I have needed/wanted to do and have done

* De cluttered house and got it ready for winter. managed to throw away 2 cubic meters of junk.

* Got the boys new beds and re did their room. Sorted bags of Jake's old clothes that I had kept for
AJ and tossed what ever yukky boy stuff in there that shouldn't have been. Smells much better.

* Re did Shannon's room Got her a new bed side table and matching desk. Got rid of the baby toys and made her room a teenagers room. Much nicer. Got her an Electric oil burner so she can have nice smells. She is currently burning a Chocolate melt from Dusk. smells like real chocolate I might add.

* Finished sorting My room. My bedroom seems to be the one stuff gets dumped in when it has no home. I sorted it all out and decided we needed a new bed suite. We went shopping and found the one we want but they only had the display which was damaged. They are trying to locate another or see if they can get the display repaired. It is a bed (head and end) bedside tables and a tallboy type thing with a mirror. I will be going down there this week so will try and get a photo of the display. I even managed to get new bedside lamps yesterday I think will go. The base may be too light but DH can fix that. I like the shape etc and the shade.

* finished a stitched quilt square for a friendship quilt.

* finished 3 or 4 small stitchy projects I had started. Need a small ornament frame for one so might his spotlight today for that (they have a sale on anyways).

* cleaned the kitchen including inside the cupboards. tossed old containers etc without lids. Can open now without fear of losing a limb from falling junk.

* made peace with the sewing machine!

The list could go ON forever but i am sure you get the idea. I feel a lot more in control.

Anywho I am going to find my coffee maker and put ona pot. I am then going to have a sit about for a while and stitch until the tribe rise, Then I might take then out to lunch.

Have a great week all

Nise

2009-04-03T17:58:00.000+11:00

Thank the Deity of your choice it's Friday....

It has been a long week for me and I am so pleased it is finally Friday.

I got an email today from my Aunt the one Black Friday affected. She needs some help and has emailed me a list of what needs doing. I We are going up over Easter and I would love to get it all done for her so she can kinda get back to some form of normal. I will chat with DH and see what we can arrange ;)

We are now on school holidays and I have 11 days off. When I got to the school to collect AJ he had won 3rd prize in the raffle and was as pleased as punch. a rather large basket of goodies. The kids have already attacked it.

I finally sorted out my Ipod and have loaded most of what I want on it. I am currently working through a bit of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. Most enjoyable. I can see thi s thing getting a bashing over the holidays. Drown out a few kids ;)

Chick pea patties for tea with steamed veg so should go and see how the steamer is traveling. I am guessing the spuds should be almost done.

Have a great weekend all

Nise

2009-03-31T17:19:00.002+11:00

Hello all out there in blog land

I had a day at home today. A day just for me. I have felt overwhelmed/over committed these past few weeks and decided I needed a day at home for me.

I started my day with a nice chat with my soul sister sham. We are starting to plan our weekend together in July. Can't wait. I have so many things I want to show you Sham when you come.

I did managed to get the chores done including cleaning the shower. You know that task no one likes to do.

I made friends with the sewing machine and am gaining confidence and think I am ready to tackle something more challenging. Not sure what but will have a think about it.

I also made 2 doz Easter Bunnie cookies. I iced around half and they were a hit. I will get some more cutters and over the holidays the kids can have a go at decorating them.

I then cleaned up my stitching area. I can only explain it as it having looked like the stitching fairy thew up all over the place. I had thread,fabric,charts,scissors,hand cream you name it all over the place. It is so neat now I am not wanting to use it. I need to get a nice jar or bowl to keep my orts in. I am sure I have something in a cupboard somewhere I can use. If not I might have to go buy something pretty.

CAN YOU SAY EXCITED!

2009-03-25T08:30:00.003+11:00

Cause I am.... Charmaine is coming for a visit YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

2009-03-23T14:19:00.002+11:00

I AM TIRED!

I have spent the last 2 weeks sorting this house. For no other reason that I can not stand it any longer and Winter is coming. You know the 3 months where you are all stuck inside with no room to move and stuff everywhere. I am on a mission to Winterize this house. I am almost done too.

I have loaded the trailer with junk and DH even had to make hungry boards cause it would have been a 2 trip run if he had not.

The boys room was the worst. They now have new beds and storage. Right down to new coat hangers! It looks and smells so nice (for now) Shan's room was done a few weeks ago and she loves her new desk and bedside table. She got her new Bass guitar last week and made a special place for it to go and all. I am very proud of her.

We are having the bathroom roof re done during the first week of the school holidays. It has all peeled and falling apart. The guy came and quoted it and said he didnt need to re plaster just strip it and seal it etc. so whatever just get it done is all I say.

Had a barney with my car pool lady this monrning. Today was her day. She only does 2 I do 3. She neglected to tell me her kids were not going to school today and she would not be able to take mine. I do not know how we managed it but we all got to where we were supposed to be on time. Maybe now they will understand why I get them up and ready so early.... I have decided to ditch her in the new term and my kids can bus it on the 2 days I struggle with. 4 of us need to be in 3 different places at the same time! I can multy task but am not that good.

OK Off to get changed to do the school run. I collect an extra now on a monday to take to dancing. Shannon has started dancing by the way... Jazz and hip hop.

Have a great week all

Nise

2009-03-17T14:02:00.005+11:00

I treated myself today to a road trip. Along the way I found some interesting places :)

I picked up some 3 sisters fabrics that I just had to have and some really cute buttons that were chanting "take us home".

I have a use for some of the buttons. I was hunting for flower buttons to use in place of giggle buttons on some stitcheries I want to do. Giggle buttons although very cute are also not cheap. I have a stack of giggle buttons so will use some of each so they blend. Should look ok. Now to remember which folder the patterns are in......

The fabric were just screaming at me to buy them I adore the patterns and think they might make a nice tote bag. Not sure yet will see where the scissors and sewing machine take me.

Off to get kids from school. Fun over :(

Nise

2009-03-09T09:16:00.000+11:00

Hello all who drop in.

Yesterday my eldest niece turned 18. Lauren is now a big girl. She is having a party next Friday and I will give her the 18 punches in the arm then OH ad the 1 to grow on ;)

It is a long weekend here this weekend and I have achieved so much. I feel good as I look about at the tidy house with the clean floors. We have had so much wind over the past week all the ash has blown in from the fires and coated everything with a layer of fine back dust. It was so nice finally removing it all.

We are planning a tip run for next week and have borrowed mum's trailer (well will go get t today) and I need to get the boys room sorted out. They get their new beds next weekend and I need to toss a heap of stuff to make room. We have ordered them new bunks the ones with the double bed on the bottom and the single on the top. Jake is getting too big for the single bed.

I have not been doing a whole lot of stitching I have been busy with other projects. I am really wanting to stitch right now so might try and find some time today.

Ok time to get on with my day.

Nise

Ornament/Treasures update

2009-02-27T08:37:00.002+11:00

I just wanted to thank everyone for there offers of help and support. I now have around 28 people both via the internet and privately who have offered to make something.

THANK YOU!

I have emailed everyone I have email addresses for BUT if you didn't get it, I need all completes goodies by the 3rd of November to be distributed early December.

If you would like more info email me

Nisem@dodo.com.au

Nise

2009-02-27T08:31:00.001+11:00

Trying to be positive and not talk FIRES or SMOKE cause we are all over them. In saying that I am sorry for those affected by them.

It is finally Friday. I am also home. The kids are all ill in someway shape or form so I will call the Doctor after 9 and try and get an appointment. Wish me luck ;)

Have been trying to get into stitching but just can't I am hoping today I might get some time to sort out my table and make sense of the mess I have and then I might be able to relax enough to stitch. Although 3 kids home not going to happen me feels.

I am so looking forward to the GTG day out in a couple of weeks. There has been so many negative comments made about this event that I am just not listening anymore. I am excited so raspberries to those that want to poo poo it!

Might even try and clean this house today while I am home. I wold LOVE to clean my room and change my bed etc you know the move the bed and vac etc kind of clean. It tends to get forgotten in my busy life.

Nise

2009-02-14T20:49:00.001+11:00

2009-02-14T19:41:00.004+11:00

2009-02-14T19:07:00.002+11:00

2009-02-14T09:03:00.001+11:00

other things to make apart from ornaments...

Apron
Tea towel
Wall hanging
Hand towel
Pot holder
coasters
table runner
place mats
home sweet home picture
toilet roll holders
tea cosy

This stuff dosn't need to be cross stitched it can be anything home made.

2009-02-10T14:14:00.001+11:00

And what an Idea it was

I wish to thank everyone who has offered to help me and make something.

I have over 20 ladies offering help.

Just goes to show what we can do.

After things have settled down a bit I will email everyone with full details.

Yesterday I spoke tot he Salvation Army who were thrilled with this idea. They like Terry-Louise have suggested not everyone celebrates Christmas so we are looking to make other "treasures" as well. Perhaps a nice Apron or table runner? Anything homemade that can turn a house into a home.

Once again thank you.

nise

I had an Idea!

2009-02-08T08:25:00.003+11:00

Well today is a very sad day for Victorians. it is unknown how many people have been affected by the fires that have ripped through Victoria over the last few weeks.

There have been homes and lives lost.

I myself can not go put out a fire or rebuild a home. This got me to thinking What can I do.

I have decided to make Christmas ornaments. I am going to spend the year making ornaments for those that next Christmas will have none. They will have to buy a new tree and new ornaments. There old ones burnt. These will NEVER be as special as the ones the kids made or that families have gathered over the years BUT they will be made with love and not store brought.

If you have any ornaments you would like to contribute let me know. I will purchase containers to put them in and keep them safe until such time as they are distributed.

My intention is to contact the Salvation Army and ask them to help find homes for the ornaments.

Cheers

Nise

Nisem@dodo.com.au

2009-02-02T09:21:00.006+11:00

Back to school....

As I write this i have mixed emotions. I love having the kids home and the break from routine. No lunches no school uniforms to have ready no school runs (for me 2 different schools) I do think they were ready to go back they were getting bored.

HOWEVER

My baby girl (almost 13) Shannon started high school today. This is HUGE for me. This is the kid I dragged kicking and screaming to kinder and primary school for many years. She wanted to be with her mum. She was shaking this morning worrying about all that could go wrong. She only knows one other girl at the school and there are over 800 students.

I am sure she is fine. I am sure she will blossom. I am sure she will love high school as much as I did. BUT mummy is sad. Yes I had a tear.

The second one of Shan alone I am calling the thinker.

2009-01-20T12:49:00.002+11:00

Man is it hot today. 38 and climbing. They say we are meant to get a cool change so I have a leg of lamb out and will make baked spuds and salad. The left over meat will be good for lunches.

3 more days and I am on holidays for 11 wholes days. 2 of them I have home alone ;)

Decided to create a word doc and back up all my bookmarks and passwords etc. sounded good whenI started but now I am over it so am blogging for something different to do .

I am also watching an Ebay auction for a DS game animal crossing. seems to be all the rage. Shan wants it and I wouldn't mind having a go. Currently I am the highest bidder and it has 32 min's to go.

Have not been stitching much of late have to many other things to do or my mind is going in circles. I am finally ready for the kids to go back to school well I thought I was until Jake announces today I stll have not got him new shorts. Oh well next week.

Ok off to hang laundry and then check back in on the auction. I amnot looking until it's over I have bid as much as I am going to.

Nise

2009-01-06T08:34:00.002+11:00

A quiet day at home today ( I hope) Tuesday is my usual day off and I am SO happy today is Tuesday. Work has been rather busy. No time to think. The days go quick but I am excited about a day top do nothing.

I intend to wash the floors today. they are driving me nuts. I can ask till I am blue in the face but no one else can mop apparently. I also have to get the tax stuff ready for the accountant. Have put that off long enough.

I was going to take the kids to the movies today but they just want to hang at home with me. Nice hey.

Have just about finished getting the school supplies. I am still watching a couple of things on Ebay and plan to visit the school shop the last week of January so will have to buy whatever I cant get elsewhere. We are booked in for the 13th to get Shannons uniform (yes she is very excited) and then we need school shoes and a new back pack or 2 and we are ready.

I need to make a call this morning to confirm but I think we are having dinner with Col's Italian folks. We were to meet them Sunday but they had to cancel.

Ok Off to make Aj's Breakfast he ahs decided poached eggs!

Nise

1st January 2009

2009-01-01T07:56:00.003+11:00

Well so far so good... Nothing tragic or too eventful has happened yet. In saying that is just on 8am.

I am up alone having a nice cup of tea. I need to wake the tribe shortly for our trip to the city. We need to go collect Jake from a cousins friends in Lilydale so he can come too but I am concerned he will be smelly and typically boy like and need to come home for a shower first so I am thinking I might sneak off and get him while the others sleep and he can tidy up before we go.

We stayed up to see the new year in and watch all the illegal fireworks then went to bed. I have had rotten head aches and think is has more to do with what I am eating/not eating that anything else so today I am making an effort to eat properly. Yesterday I go home at just on 3ish and wondered why I felt yuk. I had not eaten all day just 2 cups of coffee. No wonder I am having issues with my weight. I am so hungry then that I eat anything.

I am going to check out the new wight watcher thing it's a one on one trainer. Not sure what the $$$ is yet or if I am going to do it? Have done wight watchers before twice and fell pregnant both times so it put me off :)

I spoke to my sister last night and she too has gained some weight. She wants to drop 10 kilos by her daughters 18th party in March. We are going to encourage each other and see what happens. I will use this as my short term goal. There is no way I will drop what I want/need to drop by then but if I can make a difference then I might keep going. I just enjoy the wrong foods I am afraid.

Ok AJ is up so best bust a move or we will never get going.

Nise

Happy New Year....

2008-12-31T19:31:00.002+11:00

4 1/2 hours to go and it's 2009.

I can then say Jake will be 16 this year and in year 10 and will also get his learners permit. Shannon will be 13 this year and starting high school and AJ will be double digits turning 10 and in grade 4. Cool now I feel really old!

We had fun and games here this morning at just after 3:30am. Someone tried to smash the drivers window on the van with rocks. Not sure why? to steal it or something they thought may have been in it? Ran the police who are sending a report. It could be the idiot from across the road who we are waring with? Not sure. BUT $420 later window repaired well almost waiting for it to come in.

Worked today and we were flat out. Mostly returns which I am sure surprises no one. There are so excellent bargains to be had if you have the time and money.

We went to Kmart to get power board and I wanted to check out the outdoor settings. We need a new smallish one for the front deck. We use this area every day and the table and chairs that is there are 10 years old and very weathered. I spotted a nice blue beige stripped set. Small square table and 4 chairs ended up paying $112. for the set. I am sitting at it now with a coffee and my laptop. very comfy chairs.

We are off the the Melbourne Aquarium early tomorrow so tonight wont be a late one. Might just make midnight then off to bed.

DH has set up an infer red camera to watch the cars and has hooked it up to the DVD recorder. If anyone comes back at least we will know if it is the neighbour.

I stitched a bit last night but was busy watching telly and used the wrong DMC so tonight will fix that and finish it off. New project tomorrow for a new year.

Have a good one all

nise

Happy New Year....

2008-12-31T19:31:00.000+11:00

Back to school shopping

2008-12-30T08:25:00.005+11:00

Good Morning Today is Tuesday and therefor my RDO.

Today I planned to take the kids to the Dandy market. Shan is looking for a school bag and I need to get some School pants for her. So will see after she wakes if the mood is right??? (grumpy girl of late)

I created an excel spreadsheet this morning of stationary and text books for Jake and Shannon so I am not doubling up at the stationary store. Nothing worse than you are at the other end of the store and need 1 thing from way down the front etc. I don't have much to get really. I already have most of the text books ( I love eBay) and the couple I don't I am watching on eBay and if I don't get them I will just buy them through the school. Anyone who knows me knows I need to be organized. I have payed all the school fees before they finished school so now have little to do. I have a list of Shans uniform and marked off what we need but cant get that til they reopen after the 12th.

We also need to look for School shoes.... now this could be fun she has NEVER had school shoes ;)

AJ has a very wobbly tooth this morning and is nagging me to pull it out. It isnt that ready! He wants raw carrot for breakfast. I think he wants it gone.

Jake stayed at Nana's last night. He is bored. Nothing for him to do there but Nana might go to shops and Jake has money to burn. I did offer to take him to the market with us but he wants to go to Knox city and I am NOT going there on my day off. I am there every other day. Sorry Jake.

We are planning a trip in to the City on Thursday to the Melbourne Aquarium. We are all home ( new years day) and it doesn't matter what the weather is like we can still go. Considering we are in mid summer and it is cool and rainy I am being cautious with what I plan.

We also would like to do a beach trip at some stage. Perhaps fish and chips on a pier somewhere.
I know DH has nominated us to take Zio and Zia to the Mornington Cemetery to see Erminios grave so perhaps we can take them out to lunch that day?

Ok need to make a bed or two and hang some washing up. Was going to hang a load on the line but me thinks now its raining it might get a ride in the drier.

Have a good Tuesday.

Me

I dont give a fat rats clacker!

2008-12-29T14:49:00.002+11:00

Who if anyone reads my blog. I do this for me and if someone stumbles across it great. I am over worrying that no one replies so there !

Yes I am in a mood. I HATE Christmas and am so glad it's OVER. I am planning to hold our own private Christmas here for my DH and our kids and blow anyone else if we argue it's our business and bugger the rest of ya!

Christmas eve was fantastic at my mums house and we had a blast. can not say the same for Christmas day at the in laws. Food was cold and covered in flies a child was peeing all over the place and apparently that was funny? It was good to catch up with Alma & Bert from Italy but a god dammed shame my husbands family cant shut their mouths and enjoy good company. By 7pm the Italian family were packing their bags and were gone by 9:30.

Do not even know where they are now. Spoke to them Saturday afternoon and arranged a visit for next Saturday but they are not sure where they will be and will have to let us know. Sad just very sad.

On a light note we brought a new 3ft fish tank complete with cabinet and hood. We are in the process of staining it before assembeling. We are planning a trip to the Aquarium on Thursday ( new years day) to look at all the pretty fish so might come home with some set up ideas?

Have not been stitching have been too grumpy to think about that. I want/need to but just cant relax enough to concentrate.

I was going to take the kids to the Dandenong market tomorrow but will see what mood they are in in the morning.

Off to stir the pasta sauce I am making for dinner.

Ciao

Nise

2008-12-08T22:03:00.004+11:00

Well it may only be the 8th of December but man has it gone fast. Lots to get done in December...

This is how my month is shaping up.

worked first few days then got sick. Had Thursday and Friday off last week and generally vegged. Did not feel like doing ANYTHING that was not essential. Then the weekend came and went too fast but I did manage to get on top of chores.

Tonight we went to watch Jake play guitar at his school for the year 9 end of year final fling if you like. He was fantastic of course.

He's the one in yellow. He has been accepted into a private guitar school. Costs a small fortune hard to get into limited places. We have been on the waiting list 3 years. His reward will be a new guitar (after Christmas).

Tomorrow (9th) Shannon has orientation at high school. Need to drop AJ at Grans so she can take him to school then I can take Jake and Shan to high school then back at 3 to collect them both. Roast Lamb tomorrow night for tea YUM.

Then we need to look for shoes and a jacket for Shan's graduation which is on the 15th. So that will be this weekends shopping trip.

Paid school fees etc Friday so am somewhat poorer until Mr Rudds stimulus package come through. For me not until the 18th :(

Uncle and Aunt arrive Monday from Italy for 3 months. Wont see then until the weekend.

Have given Jake Wednesday off school to look for a part time job over Christmas so must remember to help him with Resume.

Jake finishes school Wednesday next week. Shan and AJ don't finish until the 19th. I have booked an early shift at work that day so I can be at Shan's last assembly. Being a captain she has to make a speech so I really want to be there for that.

Working right up until Christmas eve. Then back the Monday after so will have to plan baby sitting etc around Colin and myself.

Have pretty much finished the Christmas shopping just need a few stocking fillers and a mulcher for the in laws.

So that's pretty much my December.

2008-11-17T14:04:00.002+11:00

This is what I finished Saturday. I still need to sew the giggle buttons on but it is done. I am going to sew it into a door hanger for Shannon's room.

Yesterday I started part 9 of the EMS sampler. I sort of lost interest in it for a while there but am enjoying it now. I don't see the point in stitching something you don't enjoy stitching.

Worked this morning and found out my hours are all changing. Not sure exactly to what yet but apparently I am not having Tuesdays off after the 22 of the month. I have enjoyed my day home but if there is work I would rather be doing that.

Have had to bail out of the March GTG with my stitchy 123 friends. I am guessing I have done my deposit. Will have to check. DH's Family will be here from Italy and they have plans that out weigh mine so there ya go.

Until next time take care.

2008-11-10T18:57:00.001+11:00

This is a Wichelt Imports freebie I found yesterday and decided was perfect for trying my new silk. Might stitch it into a fob? or ornament not sure yet. It's actually called Fall Leaves which I can kinda see but thought it was more like a snowflake.

2008-11-09T19:59:00.004+11:00

Here it is the finished Enchanted Alphabet. Will take it to the framers at some stage this week. I have a couple of things to frame so need to put the thinking cap on as to how I want them done.

As many of you know I want to stitch Emma's Garden. Getting the fabric is the tricky bit. SO yesterday I had a play. I brought some lugana and some dye and had a go. Here is how it turned out.

Looks sort of yellowish in real life. Not sure if I am going to use either of them yet? Used bleach as the chart instructions say to to get the lighter shaded along the top. Not happy with the bleach I worry about it rotting.

Tonight I am going to play with some Silk I picked up at lincraft. Just a cheapy but it is something different. I thought I might do a small Christmas ornament. Have not decided really will see what happens when I get a few charts out.

I also hit Officeworks yesterday and picked up yet another usb stick (that makes 4 I think?) I wanted to blow up some stitchery charts to make a wall hanging while I was there and ended up starting that project last night. I am hopeless at one project at a time.

Ok short and sweet off to put away the Enchanted Alphabet stash and tidy up my stitching table.

Nise
WIP's too numerous to list lol....

2008-10-14T09:20:00.002+11:00

This is where I am at on the Enchanted Alphabet. I plan on stitching on this today after the chores are done.

I am going for a walk this morning with my mum. We are walking to the new country craft shop at the bottom of the road then we might head off for a quick coffee before I head home. I don't see nearly as much of her as I should and am trying to make the effort. It is so easy just to shut the door and do your own thing.

We went to a rock and roll tribute night Saturday night in Pakenham. It was Elvis,Johny O'Keefe,Roy Orbison and Dusty Springfield. Was a good night and there were 10 of us and it was nice to have a laugh and a dance and not worry about the kids who were at my sisters house being watched by my niece. Thank you Lauren your a doll.

Did have a run in with a kangaroo on the way home luckily no big damage. Thank you Dad for always telling me to watch for roos and what to do if one jumps out at you. I am sure thats what saved us.

Ok off to make hay while the sun is shining (hang washing).

Nise
Miss you dad xx

2008-10-08T14:36:00.002+11:00

The new Quilt cover set DH decided we just had to have and I must say it look s amazing on the bed. I couldn't get the small pillow in the store so have ordered it through their shop at home service and they will post it to me. I have never really gone for red before but it looks nice so there ya go.

Ok just a quickie for today Off to stitch for a bit while its quiet ;)

Nise

T is for Too much Ebay

2008-10-07T09:12:00.002+11:00

Hello again form the queen of ebay or so I have been crowned in this house.

I figure if I can find stuff we require on ebay at better than store prices then it's worth doing right? I am sure you know what I mean. We live on a budget and often have to re think purchases to fit the budget. BUT since I have been activly ebaying I have been able to get things we would normally not be able to have soI figure its a good thing.

The Rose Gold bangle came and it's beautiful I had it checked and it is 24 c rose gold. so for $11.50 it was definatly a bargain. I am still waiting for the memory card for Jakes phone GGRRRR I emailed the seller who appologised as in Hong Kong they are an a 7 day public holday so he is posting it today. We are also still waiting for the digital camera. Issues with stock blah blah blah so no idea when that arrives. I am also waiting on a new pair of converse Chuck Taylors I won for Shannon. $80 in stores I got them including shipping for $45. I am now hunting a pair of air force ones for Jake. They are $160 in stores the cheapest I have found them on ebay is $90 but we can get them for that at the Dandenong market so might just go look there again and see what happens.

In other Mazzan news....

We have moved the in laws. not going to discuss it cause I am still having nightmares! Saturday main moving day.... She went shopping he drank beer and leant againts a box all day and everyone else did the rest. Enough said.

Colin has decided to play handy man and is renovating the in laws bedroom and bathrooms amongst other things. He installed a new clothes line Sunday and that was a hoot. Have photo's on my phone need to work out how to get them off.

Saturday night we are off to a show with my sister,BIL,Mum,Aunt and some other friends of my sisters. It is a tribute show with 4 impersonaters. Elvis, Roy Orbison, Dusty Springfield and Johnny O'Keefe. Sounds like a good night I think.

Ok off to get some chores done before Colin takes me to lunch.

Nise

Today is Thursday

2008-10-02T08:18:00.005+10:00

I am home today and just can not seem to get going.

I am taking Adam & Shannon to see Wall-e at 10 so should move and get some washing out before we go. I made this name tag for the GTG in March. I need to go buy some interfacing to iron onto the back before I cut it and put it in a holder.
Bit worried it might fray?

I need to get a tassel today for another project so might risk it and take the kids to spotlight. I know i must be crazy right.

Not sure what I am going to stitch next. I might do a bit more on my Enchanted Alphabet next and try and get it done. I do have some Christmas stuff I would like to stitch but just can not get into that yet.

Went to see the in laws new house last night and man am I surprised. it is a very nice house but so not like anything they have brought before. In saying that I mean it is below their usual standards. This place you could consider a dump and I think there is too much work to be done for them at their age. Both DH and I are more than a little worried I can tell you that much.

Well best go get a load hung and another on it isn't going to do itself it would seem. I have waited over night and it's all still sitting there.

Waiting on 3 deliveries today.. Memory card for Jake's phone, Rose Gold Bangle I won on Ebay for $11.50! and a new digital camera DH decided I needed. I like when they want something it becomes someone elses need to justify it's purchase.... I think DH might need some new woman's clothes (in my size of course) oh and perhaps that new rug for under the PC desk....

Have a good one all

Nise

Hey Hey it's Saturday

2008-09-13T20:16:00.002+10:00

Evening all....

Been a while since I posted I have been a little busy with one thing and another. Life in general I guess.

Not much really to report. We have had everything from health scares to fantastic school reports and everything in between.

Today was a glorious sunny day, a little windy but beautiful. I threw the doors open and aired the house and had a general cleaning day. Colin did the lawns and then serviced his van. We both spent some time on the pool changing the filter and vacuuming it etc getting it ready for the summer ahead. It is still murky but with the new filter it should look clearer in a couple of days.

Tonight I have my niece Riah staying over. She stayed last night and wanted to stay another. The girls have spent the day picnicking at the Arboretum and rolling down it's hills. They were on a high and have now crashed and are watching a movie and I am sure will nod off before it's finished.

Jake is staying over at Nanna and Pop's and is helping them clean out their sheds before there big move. He's a good boy and loves spending time with them. We will head over tomorrow and lend a hand.

On the stitching front I have a stack in the to do pile and will one day get around to it all. I have a couple of WIP's happening EMS sampler and Enchanted Alphabet. I am trying so hard NOT to start anything else. I have a couple of smallish things I would like to do and I would love to get started on somen stuff for the 123 GTG in March.

I am looking for a local craft/stitching group to join to get me out of the house perhaps a night a week. I must call the community house thats where I went last time and I had a ball.

Chat soon...

Nise

2008-08-17T10:00:00.001+10:00

2008-08-17T09:52:00.002+10:00

AJ in his new hoodie!

2008-07-04T08:41:00.001+10:00

Spitting image of his mother dont you think?

Look what the cockatoos have done to my deck

2008-07-04T08:32:00.004+10:00

Hey Hey It's Saturday....

2008-06-28T08:53:00.002+10:00

Hello...

Been a while I know. Been kinda busy. You know will all and nothing.

School holidays have started here in Victoria so that means I get some time off. Only a few days but enough to maybe catch up on some things I have wanted to do but just never have time. Like washing out the fridge now theres one thats been bugging me.

Off to get my nails done this morning then over to the in laws to remove a potbelly from the garage. They have sold their home and we claimed the potbelly so need to go get it and fix the small hole in the roof. The brother in law and his girlfriend that were living in the shed moved a week ago and mother in law wants the heating gone before they can move back ;)

Apart from that a quiet weekend I feel. We are all getting yet another cold so might take the opportunity to rug up and watch some DVD's. I have been collecting cheap DVDs for watching over winter both for the kids and us.

Some other news.... We now have his and her laptops. cheesy hey. I purchased a new program for my laptop and it wouldn't run it. Not enough memory. On further investigation the memory isnt cheap. while making phone calls I found a rather good deal on a laptop and Col went and got it for me for my Birthday (yes the big one but not till September so I am still in my 30's!). We decided it was so good and reasonable price we went back Monday and got another one for Col. Now picture this..... the 2 of us in our matching recliners laid back both using laptops and listening to Pink Floyd's dark side of the moon in surround sound. I must get a photo.

Ok off to make some coffee.

Until next time Stay safe

Nise

2008-06-16T08:46:00.002+10:00

Shan and her new friend

You guessed it it is Tuesday!

2008-05-06T09:07:00.002+10:00

I could write a book Tuesdays with Denise!

Not much has happened since I was here last... I did post some pics of Jake last week they are his year 7,8 & 9 school photo's the tiny one was year 7 the freaky hair is this year so the normalish one was last year or year 8. The other kids get their photo's done on the 16th so will post them when they arrive.

I had Riah over the weekend and she and Shan had a ball. We took them to the market Sunday and they just had fun hanging out. They chat all the time but dont often get to physically be together.
We are going to try and do it more often.

Nadine and I took Mum out for dinner Saturday night for mothers day. Nean wont make it up on the day so while she was up we made the most of it.

I plan to spend today catching up on those chores you just never get time for you know the base boards the cobwebs that sort of thing. I manage to get the essential stuff done but the little bits are bugging me. I really want to clean the windows too so might do that before I shower.

So a boring week really but there you go.

Monday is council collection so we are going to have a clean up over the weekend to ditch the rubbish that builds up that you never get rid of. We are clearing out the garage too we are ordering a little shed to go in the big shed so Col can have a dry office. it is crazy every time we get rain he gets flooded. So I guess I am in for a busy weekend.

Stay safe all and until next Tuesday ciao

Nise

Tuesday again

2008-04-29T09:40:00.002+10:00

Wet and soggy Sunday

2008-04-27T10:49:00.003+10:00

It isn't raining at the moment but it rained the better part of the night. We really do need this rain so am not going to whine about it. The air is finally clear and you can breath air not just the smoke from the back burning in the mountains. For the better part of 2 weeks we have been covered in a haze of smoke. It looks like smog all day long but you can smell the smoke and the dark ash settles on everything. My white car is currently streaky charcoal.

I have been trying to get stuck into some stitching. Every time I try I get interrupted or side tracked. Last night I planned a night of specialty stitches and then discovered Harry potter was on and the kids wanted to watch it so it was 10:30 before they were all in bed and I could think straight. I stitched till a little after 1 but was so tired I had to go to bed then I spotted my new library book and read till 2:30. So today I am tired and will probably want to hit the hay early :)

We had some mongrel kick our letter box to bits Friday night so yesterday went to bunnings and picked up a new one. I love bunnings.... We also got a stack of storage tubs for the shed. We want to get everything into tubs before the real wet weather comes. That shed leaks like a sieve and we figure this is the best form of protection. We are also moving Col's office out there from the low corner to the high corner. We have not done this before as it means not being able to get a car in there if we need to but we think we have measured it all out so we can just fit the car if needed.

I caved yesterday and let shannon get a mouse. She has named her Katie. I did not mind the mouse so much as the cost of the cage,bedding water bottle and food. We managed to get a cage at clints for $13 and the mouse and all its "stuff" came in under $35. Shan panicked late yesterday when she couldn't find her and thought she had escaped the cage. We searched everywhere and I found her asleep in her house in her cage. Shan forgot to look there! blonde moment or what.

Well Off to get the tribe ready we are off to the market this morning. We need some ink for the PC and blank dvd's I might even get to look at some stuff for me today!

Have a good one

Nise

I am posting so it must be Tuesday!

2008-04-22T10:08:00.002+10:00

A day home for me today. I have some recording to do. I am sure the new foxtel box is on the fritz so want to record to DVD everything I have on the hardrive before I call foxtel and they re set the box. I am not sure there are enough hours in today to get it all done but will have a go.

not much else happening... we did buy a mulcher on Friday and spent the weekend mulching :) Not much let in the garden but we have lots of compost... We wanted to have a good out door clean up before winter sets in. Everything here has been planted without much thought as to how it grows etc. It is looking a lot tidier but we still have a few things to do before i am happy.

Sunday Col checked the brakes on the merc and found the front had all but gone so i made some calls and found a set and by 3pm the van had new brakes. I am so lucky to have a man able to do these sorts of things himself.

The boys have the dentist tonight. Aj needs a tiny filling and Jakes seals need to be redone his teeth have come down since they were done last and they need touching up. None of it is huge but the appointment is right on tea time.

We tried to get into a place at Echuca for the weekend but have left our run too late and they are booked out :( we can get accommodation but we like this place. She has a vacancy late may so we may take that. I wanted to go this weekend. it would have been dads 76th birthday next Wednesday and I wanted to visit him. Not to worry a couple of weeks wont matter.

Best get moving I want to get some stitching done today. I have some tricky stitches to do and need to concentrate which I cant do with the family home :)

Have a good week see you next Tuesday .

Nise

What is it about Tuesdays?

2008-04-15T09:18:00.002+10:00

I know its my day off but it seems to be the only day I get here to post.

Not a lot to report this week. A quiet one which isn't bad I must say.

The new PC is fantastic. it is not only looks nice it actually functions! I am still looking for my office discs so i can put word and excel on but apart from that all is well. I must say I do not really like the keyboard I chose. I am sure I will get used to it but the keys feel HUGE.

I have been trying to stitch but keep getting side tracked or find myself not in the mood. I am working on a piece that requires concentration and at the moment I have very little of that :)
I am hoping today I will get some time to do the fidley bits while I am home alone.

We were out on Saturday and found a sale at our local go lo store. Not really needing anything we wandered in for a look and I got a 3L slow cooker for $18. I got mum one as well she was thrilled. I have not used it yet but mum has and said it was great. I might make some soup in it today?

I have been asked to look at changing some of my shifts at work. I have been lucky and have all school hour shifts. Some of the new shifts are late starts and late finishes. It will mean the kids ar home for an hour on their own if Col isn't home ( which he usually is or at least isn't far off at that time) I am thinking about it. It would give me an hour and a half ish at home in the mornings after the kids go. I could do a lot in that time. I will chat to Col about it and see what happens.

Ok need to get ready I am meeting a fellow stitchy friend for coffee at 10 so should really get ready and perhaps chuck a load of laundry on before I go.

Chat soon

Nise

Guess What I got today???

2008-04-08T22:39:00.002+10:00

A new PC!

Ours was not playing nice so we decided it was time to update. We picked it up late this afternoon and have been installing all our software etc since.

Finally it is all mine for the next hour so I can update all mu bookmarks etc.

The only thing not new is the monitor. Ours is fine so I did not see the need to waste money on something still working. Besides we are still looking for a lounge suite so any spare cash needs to go there.

Had news today My much loved Uncle is heading west. He has taken a job driving a road train at one of the western Australian mines. His wife will stay here and he will commute between shifts. He is no spring chicken but has worked out if he can do this for 3 years they can both retire. Well worth it he thinks. only problem he hates the heat so sorry Michael not thinking you will last.

In other news... HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL! 18 today. I remember the day you were born very clearly. a couple of weeks of pre apprenticeship and it's there real world for you. Good luck on the driving test!

What else to tell.... Shannon has a friend coming for the weekend from Queensland. They met in kinder and Emily moved to Queensland a few years ago. this will be her second trip back and Shannon can not wait to see her. I do not think much sleep will be had.

Jake has his own tax file number. He is legally able to work but not many hire before they turn 15 which is only weeks away so he will have to wait. He desperately wants money to build a new bike. He knows he has to earn it so is keen to get a job. We will see how long that lasts hey.

AJ is AJ. he is doing well at school. He has started wanting to go to the library and get extra books to read. Last visit was a book on trains aussie bites book and a mad magazine. I do not care what he reads as long as he is happy to read. He has no interest in going outside to play he would rather hang at home and read or play games. He does like playing in the backyard with Shannon but thats about it.

Well enough from me I am tired and I have work tomorrow.

Today was my day off and I took my mum to the Dandenong Market. took her granny shopping jeep and had a ball. we filled it and I think we could have filled it over again if we had our way. I brought up on veggies I can freeze so spent the afternoon blanching and freezing. I now have enough frozen veg for 2 months.

Take it easy all

Night from me

Just for Sham

2008-04-01T16:52:00.000+11:00

There ya go Char I did it just for you :)

Nise

I got a bike!`

2008-03-24T16:45:00.002+11:00

How crazy am I...

DH and I decided to go crazy and we brought each other push bikes. After the first ride I took a word of advise from a good friend and went and got a good gel seat. My butt is still sore.

We are planning a ride tonight. I think we might just go up to the school so DS#2 can have a go. He is still learning to ride and I think the bike track is a bit too much for him.

Not a lot else happening here. We had a quiet easter and I have the rest of this week off so I am in no hurry to do anything really.

School holidays are happening here right now so I have my 3 darlings home too ;)

Have been stitching a little bit but not heaps. I have had a sore back and can not sit in my stupid crappy old chair for too long so end up going to bed early and reading which isn't a bad thing but I want to stitch. The kids have all been told normal bedtimes tonight and I might try stitching in the PC chair it is way more comfortable. We have been cruising the junk mail for a good lounge suite deal but need to save some more money first. What I want isn't in the budget pages put it that way.

Dinner is on and I think I might go sort out something to stitch tonight.

The weather is turning here and we are expecting rain all week. It is a little overcast now and rained for all of 5 minutes earlier but we really need a good heavy rain. The lawns are dead and I am saving all the abth wather for the plants but am tired like you all are I guess of trips from the bathroom to the garden. The weather man said we should get a thunder storm tonight but I am not holding my breath. I wish we did I love thunder storms.

Stay safe all

Charmaine it is good to see you back online...

Nise

I'm SO excited

2008-03-02T16:36:00.002+11:00

Because I got a dishwasher!

Not very thrilling to some BUT to me it is HUGE. I have wanted one for years but there has always been something more important but yesterday we decided what the heck and went out and got one. She is beautiful. She is shiny stainless steel. I would have settled for white but what a shame they did not have any in stock to take there and then so Stainless it was.

I have only done 2 loads in her but so far she is a beaut.

Apart from that not a lot happening here. We are on a mission to have a mega pre winter clean up. Both in doors and out. We have been busy bees cleaning and throwing. I just keep coming home with stuff... I got a rice cooker on Friday at one of the electrical shops we went to on the great dishwasher hunt for $19. so Friday night was fried rice for tea. I also snagged a sandwich press for $27 down from $59 we love the toasties and foccacias.

I am home Tuesday so plan a kitchen revamp to get rid of junk and make room for the new appliances. I brought some fabric for new kitchen valances so might even get energetic and make those too.

Not going away for the long weekend next week. I am working Monday morning and it is my nieces 17th birthday Saturday so we going there Sunday for a BBQ lunch.

Best keep moving I need to figure out something for dinner. Toasties and rice? LOL

Have a good one all

Nise

One day and counting...

2008-01-29T08:14:00.000+11:00

Until the kiddies are back at school.

Tomorrow is D Day! I have enjoyed having them home but they are bored and ready to go back. I have also enjoyed the break from routine. It has been nice not having to do the lunches and drive them to school etc.

Well this year Jake is in year 9 and has decided on one of three career possibilities Electrician,Plumber or landscape gardener. The school do careers counseling so fingers crossed he finds what he wants to do and works towards it.

Shan is grade 6 and excited to go as she will get her Vice captain badge and grade 6 jumper. She is usually nervous about starting school but this year can not wait. AJ will be in grade 3. He has missed his friends and will be cheesed off about having to get up early but will be happy once he is there.

We had a disaster of a weekend away and came home a day early. All I will say is you can pick your friends but not your family.....What a shame.

Not sure where we will ride the bikes now but it wont be at ST Arnaud for a while. Might look at selling them and buying a jet ski and heading back to Echuca.

I am home tomorrow I took the day off so I could take them all to school. I am looking forward to some time at home alone. I have not had a day home alone since November. I would like to clean up etc but will more likely Veg....

Best away and make sure these kids know where their school uniforms are.

Have a good week all...

Nise

More finishes

2008-01-23T08:42:00.000+11:00

some of my recent finishes... Sorry Swirly snow is upside down :) I have all this stuff i have stitched over the years sitting in a suitcase waiting to have something done to them. So I decided it was time to pull my finger out and make some of them into something. I needed a new bag to store my shopping bags and had a pack of tea towels so perfect a couple of bag bags. I will finish off some more christmas stuff and put it away for the festive season. We also do christmas in July so can use some then.

I just found some more in the case I wouldn't mind hanging so need to either buy frames or make some way to hang them. I am off shortly to a discount shop so will see what frames they have and then make up my mind.

I might make another bag bag to take to St Arnaud on the weekend we end up with the bags everywhere and I am sure it would not go astray.

I am starting a quilt square project today. I have not done a charity square in ages and have a really cute design picked out. I am itching to get going on it so no doubt wont get a chance and will get side tracked.

I also found out today that I can get a case for my car alarm fob from holden for for $18. Mine is broken and brittle. It works I just need to remember to take it when I go out as it isn't attached to my keys anymore. I rang holden last year and was told I needed to buy a complete unit at $98 plus a programing fee. I had decided today to do that when the guy tells me I can just get the case. I guess it depends who ya talk to hey.

Ok off to do stuff that needs doing

Nise

One week or there abouts to go...

2008-01-21T08:09:00.000+11:00

Until school is back :)

Now I do not mind them all being home (really I don't) but I think they are bored. I think they would be better to go back mid January and have an extra week here and there through the year?

Not a lot planned for today. I am home all this week and do need to get the school stuff ready but am not thinking about that today. I need to buy 1 text book and 2 work books and some stationary so can do that anytime.

Jake also needs a new backpack so I am sure that will mean a trip to Knox City and a look in every trendy store to find he right one. I managed to get a good one last year that lasted all year from Target and I am think he wants another one if I can get it? will have to go look.

Managed to finish 2 cross stitch projects and a no sew throw this week. Once Jake tells me how to fix the camera I will upload photo's. I really like the throw. I made a Thomas the tank one for AJ but now the other kids want one too. I will have to go look and see what fabric I can get thats suitable.

We are off to St Arnaud this weekend. Not sure if we will go Friday or Saturday? Saturday is warm but showers so may not go till then so we can pitch the tent after the rain. Although I am home Friday and can have everything packed for when Col comes home and we could be there in time for dinner. Will wait and see what the weather is doing. Even if we are packed and ready to go Friday night we could get going early Saturday morning. I am taking a "project" this time. There isn't much to do there and one gets a little bored so I thought I might teach Shannon to stitch while we have time with no interruptions. She is very keen to learn just either plays dumb or well you know....

I am not sure what my next project will be but I am feeling something country? maybe some stitchery tea towels? I have a stack I could do or I have some fruit crate label towels too I might have a go at.

OK off to put some washing away while all are asleep. my room looks like a bomb went off. We tend to shove stuff in there and shut the door and deal with it later. Well today is that later! I did some sorting in there the other day so it isn't too bad just need to buy some of those clear boxes with lids to store stuff so they can all stack and look neat. I have some but need more. maybe I could do that today?

Have a good one and see you all next time

Nise

Dont ya just love school holidays????

2008-01-14T09:17:00.000+11:00

Well the kids are bored out of their brains and I think they are ready to go back to school!

They have been really good at entertaining themselves this past week and a bit cause we lost the Foxtel (the hard drive blew up and they are coming tomorrow to replace it) Then the phone line went ballistic and we could not use the phone line for a few days that included the internet. SO the kids couldn't watch TV or phone a friend or use the internet!

Now I use Telstra for all of these services and you can bet they will know the meaning of compensation when I am done with them.

The week ahead is fun packed too....

Monday : (today) general chores need to be done this morning then off to visit DH's aunt for arvo tea. We do this often I usually bring muffins or a bun??? BUT now she is on a no wheat no gluten diet I have to get creative... I am thinking fresh fruit. Then home to make dinner and hopefully a quiet night.

Tuesday: Col's van is booked in to the speedo looked at so a day off for him. We are making the most of it and have booked ourselves in to the chiro we like in Cranbourne. He dosnt do weekends or after hours so is hard to get to when he isn't just around the corner. We also have foxtel and Telstra coming to fix the foxtel box and fix the lines they think are at fault for the phone.

Wednesday: Work for me... The kids are all at my mums takeaway for dinner

Thursday: Work again for me *SIGH* kids at mum's again not sure whats for dinner depends on weather BBQ perhaps?Oh and it's food shopping day too cant forget that.

Friday: last day at work for me until the kids are back at school. Kids are at mum's again poor woman will be ready for that massage I have paid for as a thank you! dinner will be what ever falls out of the freezer :)

Not sure whats happening this weekend. Have some general stuff that need doing outside so might get into that?

Thats about it for me I need to go shower and get the coolstore to some fresh fruit and make a platter.

Stay safe

Nise

Happy New Year

2008-01-04T22:27:00.000+11:00

First post for the new year....

Have been a little busy. Have been working and just general life really.

Had the crapest if thats a word day today. Work was great got to work in a different department and learnt some new stuff that was very useful. I like learning new things. I think I am just a little out of control and need to bring myself back to center. With the school holidays and trying to make sure everyone has some where to go and something to do etc. Jake has been pushing my buttons big time. He prefers to stay home than go to Gran's or Nannas. Thats ok he just plays PC PS2 or whatever. He has become very social and has lots of mates which is great but they always want to either be here (in our small house) or Jake wants me to run him here or there. in the last week here is a sample... New Years Eve he has his cousin stay over as the cousin would prefer to stay here than go with his parents to a party. He ended up staying until Wednesday. They wanted to go to the local pool right when I was helping Col do some stuff and 2 hours before tea. I dropped everything gave then the $$$ and took them to be told the pool shut at 6 and could I pick them up then. Jake has one night home moaning he is bored... Thursday comes.... I get Can Brad come over to sleep tonight... I would rather not have sleep overs when I have to get up and go to work the next day but agreed. Brad turns up while we are eating dinner. the par then inform me they would like to go to Knox with me this morning so they can just look about. I agree. They then said they would get the bus home. Jake hit me up for $$$ for a new jumper (he did need one so I agreed) then I find out they have called Nanna to pick them up who took them back to her house for lunch then ran them home here after.THEN they ask if Jake can go stay at Brads. OK. Jake cant go until after 6 as Brads folks wont be home till then. Jake makes an early tea so he can go ASAP. Jake starts to ride to Brads gets half way and comes back cause he had a call that he cant stay unless he can go with them to the pictures tomorrow. so either had to stay home OR get $$$ for movies. I direct deposited cash into his account and sent him on his way. THEN he says he will be late and can I drive him half way and he would ride the rest. As we are getting ready to go AJ drops his bowl of noodles! Noodles and noodle juice all over the floor not to mention the broken bowl ARGGHHHH I get Jake to meeting place to meet Brad. They ride off ;)

come home noodles and bowl clean up on isle 12 then grumpy mummy too stressed to do much else...NOW if I still have you reading at this point get this! Our new tent came today so we have also nutted the chinglish out to erect that it took 2 hours and we were ready to put a match to it! but its all good. it look great and very big so tickled at my $22. ebay bargain.

Now apart from all this... Wednesday AJ ad Shan went to mums while I worked so had to get them there mega early so I wasnt late. Thursday AJ went to Nannas and Shan went to a friends so had to leave mega early to drive what felt like a million k's to deliver everyone. Then today Aj went to mums and Shan went there but was collected to go to a friends. Now just remember I had to collect them all from there various places in the afternoons too. Apart from AJ yesterday Col did that on his way home.

in there I also managed the food shopping (well most of it I still need to go get meat) and I remembered to pay the bills!

tomorrow I have Jake and Brad back to sleep in the new tent and heaven knows what other mates???? I also need to get that meat and perhaps some fresh vegies.

I am now tired and worn out and need a nap and think I should have a holiday....

It is 10:53pm and I am about to hang a load of washing (3rd for the night) so it will be all dry in the morning and I dont have to hang it out in the sun and get too hot :)

Those are my ramblings for today and I have had my rant.

Once again Happy NEW Year.

Nise

Sunny Sunday

2007-12-30T10:44:00.001+11:00

Well we never got to go away. Although the authorities all said we could ride Col's Uncle who owns the property said no. He is worried about a bike starting a fire. His kids are not riding either and they are all coming home today I think?

SO yesterday we spent the day packing up and looking for something to do. We ended up at Cold Rock for some ice cream then we went to K mart for a plate for the BBQ and some pool filters. The pool looks great and the kids will no doubt use it today we are expecting 33 and 41 tomorrow.

Tonight we are off tot he beach for a visit. we were going to take a picnic but have decided to have an early tea and head off. It is only a 35 minute drive (if that) so will take a drink and snacks etc and have fun instead of trying to pick sand out of the kids dinner.

Today I thought I might try and tidy up a bit and perhaps have a veggie day with some DVD's. I have a few to catch up on so that just may be me for today.

The kids cleaned up for Christmas as usual. Shan and Aj got Nintendo DS and 3 games each along with all the other "stuff" Adam got a Homersapian robot thing and Shan got a robotdog they are funny to watch. Jake got his Motor bike earlier but that was a Christmas present. He got boots and a pressure suit on the day and a Guitar hero 3. Guitar Hero 3 has been a hit and half with everyone. The kids all got gift cards for JB hi fi and pooled them together to get Singstar popstar which included the microphones etc. that too has been so funny.

OK off for some breakfast and another cup of tea.....

Have a good one all

Nise

Friday once again

2007-12-28T21:36:00.000+11:00

Well once again I find myself here and it is a Friday....

We are all packed and ready to head off to ST Arnaud and then we get a call to let us know that there are fire restrictions are in force up there and we can not ride. We have made multiple calls to various authority's and can not get a clear ok to ride so it looks like we are staying home.....
The boys are gutted and I am cheesed I have spent all this money and now we are staying home.

They are going to the CFA in the morning to double check everything. But for now I am HOME......

Off to do some laundry and make coffee...

Nise

Almost Friday (11pm Thursday)

2007-12-20T23:02:00.000+11:00

Well what a week this has been. I have worked every day and my feet can confirm that by the sore spots and the aches. I am meant to work tomorrow BUT shan is running for school captain and finds out tomorrow if she got it. The parents get called at 10am to let them know either way and then there is a assembly at 1pm and school then breaks up at 1:30. I really want to be there either way.

The house could use some love anyway it is a tad grubby :)

We had mega rain here today and the Garage flooded again GGRRRR this time Col's PC power supply got fried. Good job he had another and is back online. I am over this leaky house.
We are defiantly looking to move after Christmas.

I have not touched my sewing for weeks. I miss it and can not wait to get back to it soon.

Too tired to think right now so am heading for bed.

Stay safe.

Nise

One week to go!

2007-12-17T16:20:00.000+11:00

Hard to believe it's almost Christmas...

Working all week this week ARGGHHH the money will come in handy for those after christmas sales ;)

I am done with the Christmas shopping I have everything WOO HOO. Even teacher gifts! How ready am I???

Jake finishes school on Wednesday and the other 2 on Friday. Thankfully I get through the week without having to get a babysitter. Next week I am working Christmas eve till 2pm then 2 days off and back for 2 days before 4 days away at St Arnaud. Looking forward to getting away and just vegging...

We are off tad poling tonight. Shan found some and wants to show us so after tea we are off to the local arboretum for some fun and games I am thinking! I can see someone going in could be me...

Chicken Kiev and salad for tea.

Be cool people.

Nise

Hump day again

2007-12-12T17:00:00.001+11:00

yes another Wednesday...

As for Mondays rant... DH did sort MIL out and although she tried to deny she got caught out LOL it was so funny. Have had to fill DS in on some Nana facts that we didnt want o but he understands now.

Tonight is the primary school Christmas production. They are having it at the local high school. Have to have the kids there at 6:45 for a 7pm start. No idea how long it will go for???
I have charged the video camera up and discovered i have not used it since September 06' how bad is that.

Looks like DD has the school captaincy. I got a letter home today asking us to be there for the last assembly. Will need the video camera and a tissue for that one. I must thank Jake for this as he is the on who convinced her to go for it. HE told her he wished he did it etc and she was thrilled.

Best away hamburgers for tea.

Nise

Monday

2007-12-10T12:50:00.000+11:00

I am having a rather Moody/bad day.

Cant describe what I am feeling right now. It is a cross between anger and every other emotion I can think of. I am not going into too many details cause this is not over but I can tell you it involves my MIL. Col is going to call in on her on his way home and have it all out. If she dosnt back off we are gone.

Apart from that all is well....

Went to the toy sale Saturday. I was up at 4 and there by 5 and was about 200th in line to get in. The guards told us they were getting there from just after 2. We managed to get what we wanted and have finished the Christmas shopping WOO HOO.

I am not long back from K mart and have collected all but 1 lay by which is the in laws GGRRRR.

Am spending the rest of today tidying up. I have washed by bed linen and am waiting for the underlay to dry and then will finish off our room.

Dinner is baked spuds salad and steak.

Have a good one all...

Nise

Thank GOD it's Friday!

2007-12-07T15:05:00.000+11:00

This week has gone on FOREVER. I only worked 3 days but man it feels like 30!

Ok home tonight for a MEGA deep clean of the house it is in dire need. Then tomorrow morning 4:30 I am off to the funtastic toy sale and I hope this year I get closer to the gate..

Col will meet me there at 7:30 before the doors open he will drop the kids at Nana's.

Col's car goes on Sunday and he needs to do a few last minute things to it before it leaves. I was the last one to drive it and he was hoping he could get it going and drive it onto the trailer. Poor boy is sad about this one.

So all in all I hope to have a quiet weekend. I wouldn't mind getting some presents wrapped.

OH and we found out last night Shan knows all about Santa.the tooth fairy and the easter bunny. I thought she would be upset but she was fine. she kinda knew but wanted us to confirm what she thought.

Found out today who shan's grade 6 teacher will be and he is a knob! Jake had him in grade 6 and he was asked to leave the school there were so many complaints so how can he be back????

Off to scrub the loo.

Nise

Tragic Tuesday

2007-12-04T10:16:00.000+11:00

Well not too tragic just couldn't thing of anything else to go with Tuesday!

The plumbers are here on the roof trying to fix ancient plumbing to stop the roof leaking. From what I have overheard it is a mess up there and the gutters,pipes and drains are all blocked. They have pulled the downpipes off and can not see through them they are that blocked. They are not sure if they can fix them or will just put new ones up?? Not my problem just FIX it.

I was going to show you all the new button tree I made but the camera has been unplugged so the teenager could plug the web cam in. I have no idea how it all goes back so will need to wait for him to fix it.

I am using to day to de stink the house. Kitty litter, rat litter, toilet and boys room. Yes they all smell. I need to get some more kitty litter and perhaps some plug in stink stopper for the boys room. Man boys smell.

you are never going to believe what I just spotted! Spit balls on the roof and wall. I think Jake got a little bored at some point.... Can you guess what Jake will be doing when he comes home?
OMG there are everywhere.... He is maggot meat!

OK need coffee and should get dressed. I have showered but am in Pj pants and old t shirt. Poor Plumbers did not know what to think LOL

Hugs to those that need them

Nise

Greetings.....

2007-12-03T13:45:00.000+11:00

It is Monday and I was just about to post my ramblings when the thunder and lightening hit so I thought I had best turn the PC off.... I love thunder and lightening so I thought I would sit and stitch for a while and listen to it etc when after checking windows etc i found water pouring in the kitchen window! The kitchen was almost totally flooded YIKES....

SO I have made all the relevant calls and now just wait for help to arrive... Thankfully the rain has stopped and the sun is shining so I just hope that whatever is wet is now drying etc. I used all the towels so now have them washing and hope to get them dry.

I did manage to sew the buttons on my button tree now I just need to find a frame and thats another Christmas present out the way.

I also finished the Christmas cards today so will post those tomorrow when I go out.

I thought I had better check the garage and what do you know it is also flooded.... Thankfully no damage that I can see just water. I will do the school run then help Col sweep the water out.

I am thinking after Christmas it is time to move house.

I have made risotto for dinner, well the sauce I will do the rice bit later.

In other news from the Mazzan house... cols old VN goes to a new home on Saturday :( that will be a sad day for him. This is the car he always wanted and now we don't need so seems silly to have it sitting there. Over Christmas he dosnt get his normal pay he only gets the hours that he works rather than minimum time so we might need this money if work is slow. The kid that is buying it really loves the car and has already booked it in for a new paint job amongst other things. Col is happy it will have a loving owner.

Still not sure whats happening for Christmas day??? We usually go to the in laws but last year MIL mentioned something about not wanting to "do" it again this year. We do my family Christmas eve but are doing it the 22nd this year cause my sister and her tribe are renting a houseboat and will be gone for Christmas. I really wouldn't mind the day at home to be honest but will need to sort it soon I guess. We will have our new BBQ then so could have the in laws here but FIL dosnt like going out Christmas day so not sure whats going to happen.

I started stitching a cute Christmas Koala the other day so am off to finish that off.

Have a good one all

Stay dry if your in Melbourne..

Nise

Well it's December

2007-12-02T17:50:00.000+11:00

Oh I love Christmas. I adore the decorations and watching the kids checking out whats under the tree just hoping something is for them.

I managed to get some more Christmas shopping done today. I have most of the good stuff on lay-by. The mains stuff is... Jake will get guitar hero 3 and Shan an AJ are getting a DS each.

I got the in laws a digital photo frame and my mum some stuff she wanted for her garden and some make up junk.

Not sure about Col & i yet??? The motorbike was meant to me his thing but I would like to give him something on the day. Maybe a tent I know he really wants this tent at anaconda.

I have had a rather slackish day today just gone at a very slow snails pace but have managed to achieve a lot really. All the washing is caught up on and put away which is fantastic believe me! I was going to have cold meat and salad for dinner but it has cooled off so might have a hot tea and save the cold meat for another night. This begs the question what to have?

I am looking forward to the next 2 days. I am home alone I do have to run mum to vic roads to deal with her rego but apart from that nothing planned. I did think I might go get my nails done????? I have a gift voucher from a fantastic friend that will expire if I don't use it soon. so yes I think that might be tomorrow.

I wouldn't mind getting some stitching happening tonight. I have a couple of ornaments to finish.

OK off to figure out a hot dinner????

Luv yas all

Nise

All is well

2007-11-29T15:14:00.000+11:00

We saw Jakes surgeon today and have been given the all clear... The freak of a child is growing a new clavicle! Very unusual apparently but has been seen before. It looks rather strange on the xrays. They think the new bone will fuse to the old one. Natures way hey.

He can start riding the motor bike early January so thats a relief. He can use his Christmas present.

OK off to do the school run thing..

Nise

Smile and point your toes they say

2007-11-27T12:31:00.000+11:00

Sure..... I am done smiling an pointing!

All is well here ;) Nuff said.

I managed to get some stitching done yesterday and finished another Button tree. I also started a cute little Jill Oxton Christmas Koala. I am on a mission to spend some time on me I am feeling neglected ;) sad arnt I.

I was going to re arrange the living room today to accommodate the Christmas tree. It is not to be the Foxtel cable isn't long enough GGRRRRR I might have a chat to Col and see if he can make me a longer one???? I did manage to de clutter and generally clean up so I am feeling good about that.

BBQ and Salad for dinner I might go start the salads so I have less to do later.

Breathe ......

Nise

Election Day Vent

2007-11-24T08:15:00.000+11:00

mmm great Election day. You know the one where you line up at a primary school where the school council has all sorts of fund raisers happening and you can smell the snags and onions that they are BBQing and the man in the line in front of you forgot his deodorant and the granny behind you forgets that most people unlike her without her hearing aide can hear the gas eaking from her you know where. Thrilling entertainment......

I cracked the sads big time last night. I have let these kids rule this place long enough and the poor buggers didn't see it coming ;) I am just over the noises the bickering the mess and finally me not having any me time without kids in my day. I love the little creatures but just give me an hour after they have all gone to bed to be able to breath without having to explain why.

I moved the lounge around some time ago so the PC was in the dinning room away from the tv etc so Jake could use it at night without disturbing anyone watching telly. I also wanted it there so we could monitor what was happening etc. WELL he has found a way to make it the "Noisy" corner. He has no consideration for anyone else and bangs and thumps and I am sure he has found a way to use the keyboard so it is extra noisy when I am watching TV. He also has a habit of for example last night a bag of chips a big bag and he rattled it and dropped it and I couple hear every chip he crunched ARRGGGGGHHHHHH I used to retreat to my bedroom and watch a dvd or whatever but The kids have knocked off my TV. Until today! Mum is fighting back. I am taking back my TV and my lounge room. and I am taking lives along the way!

Other news....

I cant remember??? if I told you BUT Col's bike was broken the front forks were cactus. After many calls to the bike company and a bit of negative feed back on their web site the new forks arrived yesterday. The bike is back together and he is a happy boy once again. Now all we need is for Jakes arm to heal and we can go riding again. We are off for xrays on Thursday and will finally know if he is to have it plated. They were hoping it would heal itself and then it would be as strong as before but if they have to plate it the tiny holes they have to drill for the screws to hold the plate will make it very weak. Also because of his age the plate will have to stay in. So fingers crossed it is all healing ok. I just wish I had xray vision and could see what was happening in there.

Work is crap. It is mindless dull and very boring but it pays very well so until something else comes along I am going to stick it out. I have already started looking but will not seriously think of changing till after Christmas. I am thinking of looking back into Integration after all I have all these qualifications why not use them hey.

Thats all from me I need a coffee. I promise no children will be harmed in todays house take back... really I promise ;}

Nise

Just another Tuesday...

2007-11-20T09:52:00.000+11:00

Feeling a bit ordinary today. I have a head cold and it is really windy and hot which inst helping.

I have some sudafed but they dry me out SO much I feel like I am dehydrating. I might cut back on the dose a bit and try that??

Jakes bones have moved just not sure if they are int he right spot yet or not. We will not know for sure until the 29th. He isn't in as much pain but there is still pain if you know what I mean? Poor bugger is over it.

Found out last night the kids all have tomorrow off for a teachers strike GGRRRRR Mum has said she will have them but they get bored down there. luckily I am only working till 2 so thats not too bad.

Ok off to sit and stitch for a while. I have hung a load and have another in the machine then I am up to date with washing woo hoo.

Stay safe all

Nise

Thursday

2007-11-15T22:05:00.000+11:00

It is late and I am tired. I had Jake at the surgeon at 8:30 this morning. After 2 different opinions they both decided the jaggered bit of bone is too close to the nerves and other scary bits that they have given him a different sling set up and hope the bones will move enough for surgery.

Not much else happening here. Worked today and working all day tomorrow.

Sleep well

Nise

Tis Wednesday....

2007-11-14T21:28:00.000+11:00

Well are you ready for this??

took Jake back tot he DR yesterday. He had texted me he was in pain etc It got the better of me and I took for a xray and BINGO the bones have moved and are poking his shouler trying to come through the skin ;)

A quick call to the DR and then a visit with him as well he rang the head surgeon and got him booked in for tomorrow morning at 9am. I got a call from them today to make sure he hasn't eaten so we are pretty sure we are heading to the operating theater Oh the joys. He is being so very brave. He has even googled what they might do.

I wish for a "normal" day

Nise

Tuesday... My day off

2007-11-13T10:52:00.000+11:00

yep it is my only day off for the week and I am making the most of it wasting time on the internet ARRGGHHHH

I am off shortly to hang laundry and yes as thrilling as it sounds make the beds. I feel so much better when those 2 chores are done. strange but true.

I have some stuff in the IQ to record so I can delete it it is almost full yikes thats a lot of stuff to record. so there goes part of my day :)

Not sure whats for dinner can not be bothered thinking about it right now.

It was jakes first day back at school yesterday and yep he got knocked. I got a call to ask if they could give him panadol and he was right for the rest of the day but this morning had a whine about getting knocked again today. Nerves.

I am unbeknown to him going to book the xray for this week just to check progress.

OK better hang those towels they aint drying in the basket...

Nise

Magical Monday

2007-11-12T09:36:00.000+11:00

Well it is so far anyway.... I am home alone!

Jakes first day back at school today after his big woopsie. He is nervous that he will get knocked about etc but he knows he has to go.

I usually do not work on Mondays anymore but have managed to pick up some extra shifts. I start at 12:30 and finish at 5:30. I have already sorted dinner (BBQ) so can relax when I get home. I am off tomorrow and am really looking forward to that I can tell you.

I had not looked at the calender for a few days and thought I had best take a peek last night to see what the kids had going this week. Good job I looked! Shan and AJ both have excursions this week.
Shan is off to Taskworks and AJ is off to Scienceworks. They should both have fun but i need to pack different foods for lunches on those days . No biggie but I can get organized now.

Col managed to somehow break his bike last night. something to do with the shocker and draining the oil?? and now it wont work. I will make some calls for him and try to sort it out shortly. Once again Wife to the rescue....

SPEAKING of Wife.... the day before Jakes stack was out 17th wedding anniversary. 17 hard to believe really.

Off to make those calls.

Me.

Hump Day

2007-11-07T08:10:00.000+11:00

Here it is Jakes broken Clavicle.

Broken bone number one from motor bike riding.

It happened Sunday at ST Arnaud around 11am. We took him to the local hospital but they do not have x-ray facilities on a Sunday so they started making arrangements to transfer him to Ballarat or Bendigo. I asked the DR if we could strap him up and fill him with pain meds and get him home to Melbourne and he said yes. So thats what we did.

The car trip home was a nightmare to say the least. I ended up sitting in the back with Jake and he slept on me most of the way home. BUT the bikes kept moving in the trailer cause we couldn't tie Jakes down properly and then the rain started.... We managed to get home ok and I took Jake straight from my car to Col's car and to the hospital. It had been 4 hours since the last lot of pain medication and he was really starting to feel pain. The Dr's here gave him more drugs and x-rays and confirmed the first DR's diagnosis. He is now in a devise to stop his arm moving at all and has to have x-rays every 2 or 3 days to make sure this is all healing ok. We did end up back at the Hospital Monday morning as the bones had moved and Jake was crying in pain.

Apart from that the weekend was great we had a ball. Jake loves his bike and can not wait to heal and get back on for another go.

The Bike company have shipped all the parts to fix the bike and are covering all costs as it was the bikes fault this happened.

Ok off to help the invalid shower....

Nise

Terrific Tuesday

2007-10-30T15:01:00.000+11:00

Hello all out there is blogger land. I have a new keyboard and it feels FUNNY... it is a lot smaller than the old one and the keys are closer together thank goodness for spell check.

Funny day today. Weather wise I mean. Sunny but a little overcast. We expecting rain later I believe. Which reminds me I must get that washing from the clothes line before its too late.

Quiet day here today. I popped over to spotlight for some stitching supplies and as usual got other stuff ;) Now tell me who can go into store like that and only get what they went in for.

We are away this weekend bike riding. I have lists upon lists of things to do or take etc. We are fortunate to have the cottage up there but there is more than one family going this trip so things are going to be a little squishy. We have decided to sleep in the tent and only use the cottage for cooking and showers etc. Cant wait really I am going grave hunting..... apparently I have family buried in the town cemetery so plan a visit for a look. I know a little strange arnt I !

Shan and I also plan a walking trip of the town itself to see just what is there. it is only tiny so I am guessing 20 minutes and we will be done. She is mamma's girl and hopes there is cafe for coffee LOL.... city slickers and our decaf latte'. The town shouldnt whine thou the amount of money between all the families that share this property should be helping the community. There are 5 families just between the Mazzan's & Reeve's.

I had thought i might pack a small stitching project to take with me. I am not going to take the big fairy I do not want anything o happen to her. I am rather on a roll with Christmas right now so maybe some ornaments? I am on a mission to have only snowmen and gingerbread men on the tree this year. Not sure how far I can get with that but plan to try. I have made several ornaments over the years following this theme and am addicted now. I have even ordered plain gingerbread for the kids to ice and hang on the tree. YUM

Ok off to get that washing and get dinner started. Rissoto with fresh parmasan cheese.

Bye all

Nise

TGIF!

2007-10-26T14:50:00.000+10:00

Another week over.

No big plans for the weekend. I would like to get to my sisters for a coffee just wish it were closer.

Spaghetti for dinner tonight then perhaps some mummy time?

I am sitting here freezing my butt off.... I have to run the Evap cooling for 20 minutes. They guy came today to open it up for the season and it need to run the cleaning stuff through you know the stuff that kills all the bugs and germ etc. It has a eucalyptus base so the house smells loverly but is COLD. I will need to turn the heater on when I turn the cooling off!

OK off to hang washing I guess before the tribe get home.

Stay safe

Moody Monday

2007-10-22T09:04:00.000+10:00

I am in a mood today. Do not know why just am. I am home alone YIPPEEE so should feel good about that but dont.

I am on a mission to get some chores done then perhaps some me time?

We got Jakes Bike Saturday and here it is.

He has ridden up and done the drive way about a MILLION times. Yesterday we took him to Nanas for a ride. Her yard is big enough that he got to change gear.

SO it looks like we are off for a weekend of bike riding..... Not this weekend but the next I think.

Shannon is a little green with envy ans she really wants a green bike. We are looking to get her one for her birthday in May. She need to practice a bit more first.

OK off to do those chores that just wont do themselves.

Have a good one

Nise

S.A.T.U.R.D.A.Y YEA!

2007-10-20T08:28:00.000+10:00

Yes I am thrilled it is finally Saturday. It has felt like this week had DRAGGED.

OK nothing Horrid to report this week. A normal week apart from it taking FOREVER to be over.

Today we are off to collect Jake from a sleep over then on to collect his new bike. He is thrilled. They did not get the one in we wanted so have had to upgrade him to the one he really wanted (but out of the budget). It is also Bright green. The grin on his face was priceless.

Big breakfast day today. Eggs and bacon on the BBQ and pancakes. YUM.

OH and I send sympathy's to anyone reading this with a little girl... Mine became a young woman this week and I cried like a baby. She is 11! What is happening now days?? I mean 11..... she is no young woman she is my baby girl.

be cool people....

nise

I dont like Mondays.

2007-10-15T10:29:00.000+10:00

Because it means WORK.

This is my last monday shift WOO HOO. Well until next time they want me to fill in. As of next week I think I am only doing my normal 3 days. I am looking forward to it actually.

Today I start at 12:30. I will not get home till around 6 so we are having a BBQ for dinner. I have already done most of the prep so it shouldn't take long to have food on the table.

Not much planned for the week ahead. Not sure when Jakes new bike will be available so a lot will be riding on that (pardon the pun). We would like to head to St Arnaud this week end all being well but if the bike needs to be collected Saturday (as is there norm) we may not be able to go.

Warm and windy here today a top of 27 is expected.

Off to hang washing....

Stay safe

xx Nise xx

Long time no write...

2007-10-14T08:44:00.000+10:00

Well it is Sunday and they are all still in bed. Well those that are here are still in bed. Jake stayed at a mates for the night and I am sure got up to no good but then again he is 14.

I decided at 9pm last night to spring clean Shannon's room. well it turned into a spring ,summer, winter etc clean it was BAD. I will not to begin to describe what I found BUT it took 5 rubbish bags to get rid of it. She has some small hobs to do in there today then we can vac the floor and maybe look at moving the bed? not much option in her room but we will see if we can wiggle it into another spot for a change.

Well I think we are MAD but last night we brought Jake a motorbike for Christmas. He is thrilled naturally. Col made a video call to him to let him know we won it on ebay (it is new) and his smile went beyond ear to ear. It is the same as Col's bike just a little smaller a 125cc. We have also ordered a second body kit in pink so when Shan outgrows her little bike she can have his as by then he will have moved on to a bigger bike I am sure. Now we need to collect it maybe Friday? and assemble the stupid thing that will take a whole day. Then I am sure it will be off to St Arnaud for a weekend of riding.

I am expecting a visit from the outlaws today. Have not really seen them much as we try not to go there very often after all the rubbish with the BIL. They rang last night to see if we would be home today so I might make a cake later just in case.

I have washing piled up that needs folding so I might watch some of the stuff I have recorded to the IQ. I have recorded so much stuff I need to sort it and see what I have watched and record stuff on to dvd that I want to keep. There is a new series called Ice Truckers. It is about a group of guys taking loads of supplies across frozen lakes to a diamond m in in Canada. They can each earn up to $75k for a 3 month season. I have seen 2 episodes and am hooked.

OH and another interesting (to me) bit of news. Col brought me a sewing machine. I LOBE IT! my old one died and I tended not to use it anyway as it had "issues" so I have now started sewing again. I have made a Christmas wall hanging from a stitchery I had mad and I have half made a quilt. I have some bits of fabric so got a bag of wheat and am going to make some heat packs. The smallest bag of wheat is 4.5k so everyone is getting wheat bags for Christmas!

Col is back on the road after his near miss on Wednesday. For those that did not hear.... He had a $150k Mercedes pull out in front of him from a Mercedes dealership and almost hit it. To prevent the smash he literally stood on the brakes peddle and it popped a brake line therefore losing all brakes. He managed to swerve and miss the sports car and then traveled another kilometer through a red light in busy traffic in Kew! before managing to get it to stop. After a lot of mucking about he discovered the what the problem was and had the RACV get a tow truck to bring him home. Then came the fun of trying to get the new line. Well Mercedes have none in the country! it was going to be a week to get one from Germany. So after a few phone calls we found a guy locally who ended up making one a lot cheaper and the nest day. So by Friday he was back on the road. He is still a little nervous I can tell you.

So fingers crossed this week will be a "normal " week :)

Off to fold that washing I can hear kids getting outta bed AARRGGGGG

Nise

Thursday on the Ranch

2007-10-04T08:21:00.000+10:00

well it isn't really a ranch but I do feel like sticking something hot on the kids butts to get them going some days thou ... is that bad parenting?

Ok it is Thursday.... The school holidays are going well. Today is the the first day the kids have asked to have someone over. Not bad hey! made it till the second last day WOO HOO.

Jake has cousin Michael coming sometime today for a sleep over. Jake was going to go home with him tomorrow and stay the night but Michael has to go job hunting. Over the holidays he has decided to he dosnt want to go back to school to finish the last term. He is 17 and not academic. He is more hands on. He gets good grades at school but he has to work really hard at it.

Shannon wants a friend over for a visit but we need to arrange something with another friend first. The other friend took Shan to the pictures last week and it is our turn this week but we have not been able to get onto them. If I cant get them this morning to plan something for today or tomorrow then Shan can have the other friend over.

Today I have decided its calender day. Each year I make and print a calender for the next year. I use publisher because I cant buy one with enough room for all our c$@p. I did it a couple of years ago and it is fantastic. It lives in a plastic sleeve with a magnet on the back on the fridge. It is "Our Life" no one makes plans without first checking the fridge. Today I have printed 2 years worth. I have also googled the school holidays,public holidays and daylight savings etc and will sit and create these calenders. It will take me about an hour to complete but man is it worth it.

Not much planned for the weekend ahead. Bathurst is on so will plonk my butt in front of the telly for much of that. Would like to get the project car into the garage and outta the way so the project trailer can move up the drive and perhaps get some work done? We need this new bike trailer if we wish to go riding. We will have another 2 bikes in the near future and they wont all fit in the back of the Vito.

Off to have a hit of caffeine then food shopping oh the joy.

cheers
Nise

It hurts...

2007-10-02T08:18:00.000+10:00

I hurt my hip Sunday lifting potting mix and now it REALLY hurts. I stuffed myself full of pain meds last night with the view to knocking myself out and not tossing and turning and what do you know it worked. I slept like a baby. It is still sore today but I think it is nothing panadol wont fix.

Well week 2 of the school holidays and all is well so far :) I am home all this week and plan to catch up on some stuff about home as well as take the kids to the pictures etc.

Yesterday was a dud I couldn't move so spent the day watching movies with the kids. this isn't a bad thing but how many times can a girl watch high school musical???? Today Shan wants to watch grease. OH joy!

Col and I have worked out our Christmas holidays etc and have decided to pretty much just take the week between Christmas and new year. We are planning to take a week off towards the end of January and go bike riding. We will wait and see what's happening with his work etc before deciding.

I managed to stitch yesterday for around 5 hours! first time in ages I have been able to get that much in. Part of that time was spent fixing up a stuff up from the night before ;) but all is well now. Col took me to the shops when he got home yesterday and I managed to get a pack of beading needles at the craft shop. They normally don't have anything like that only patchwork etc. So I think I might add the beads as I go rather than all at the end. not sure yet???

OK off for a caffeine fix to help start the day...

Nise

Monday and we survived our weekend away

2007-09-24T08:22:00.000+10:00

Well we are home and we managed to not kill each other all weekend. Helps when all your family are spread in different directions and not hanging off you!

We got up early Saturday and were at St Arnaud by 10am after stoping for breakfast etc in town.

When we arrived at Steve & Julies they were just finishing unloading the removal truck and were ready for their breakfast so we made their breakky while they had a good look around. They had arrived at 2am and had not had a chance to see much.

The boys were soon off riding and we girls got to sorting the house. didnt take long and we had it all done. Then it was time for lunch. We had brought a chicken and some other bits with us from town so that became lunch.

Saturday night we had a bonfire and burnt all the wood lying about the house to clear it away and a heap of furniture that either had been left at the house OR Julie didnt want anymore.

Uncle Ronny and Auntie Val joined us for the fire and a few drinks and fun was had by all. It became a VERY late night and there were a few tired and sore bodies the next day.

Sunday it was everyman for himself and the majority were off riding. Col and I went for a ride then I stayed back and watched Holly while Steve and Julie went to survey their new 120 acre holiday property.

After lunch I started packing up to come home but no one wanted to leave. We left at 4 and were home by 7. Now I have a day of washing ahead :)

I had a play with the camera and just took photo's of everything so here are a few for you to look at.

Oh and in the phot of the view.. look for the house that is all green off in the distance thats ronnie and vals house

xx Nise xx

The bike is here...

2007-09-08T09:04:00.001+10:00

Yep it is FINALLY here....

It took us 2 hours to get to the factory and back to pick it up and about 4 hours to get it out of the packaging and together.

It was stuck on the dock with customs for a week as it had asbestos brake pads that had to be removed. SO when we got it we were handed another pack of pads that at about 10pm we discovered only one set fit! SO today we will have to go back and get the right ones. Apart from that and bits in the bits in the box we have no idea where to put it this morning looks like a bike! It is in the garage so I will get more photos later.

its friday YYIIPPPEE

2007-09-07T08:57:00.000+10:00

I like most am so glad it's Friday. Not for any particular reason other than it signals the end of the week. It for me is almost like "I made it through another one" if that makes sense?

Have worked all week apart from Monday. Have had crap thrown at me at work but it seems to have settled. I am fortunate the Operations Manager is on my side. I am right on this one. Not often I can say I am right but this time I truly am.

I would like a hair cut today. I finish at 12:45 so should have time. BUT the motor bike is due in today and you can bet I will have to go get it and I wont get a hair cut today ;) No bother I can always go tomorrow.

We are planning a weekend of cleaning the garage. it is over run with junk. There is even a home made go cart in there my brother made and dumped on to us. it will get cut up! I am going to enjoy that. Col wants more room for his office and we want to get the project car in there so we can finally get some more work done on it.

We have been looking at some bush blocks of land about an hour from here and they are reasonably priced we were surprised. We want a holiday place of our own. We need to pay off the Van first but after that we should be right.

OK off to do something with this hair so I can go to work.

Be good...Or good at it!

OK back again.... I have a few minutes ALONE!

I have been to work and am glad to be home it was MAD... I did manage to get a hair cut before I came home. I knew if I did not do it it would not happen :) I also found out the Motor bike is in! yIPPEEEEEEEE so now waiting for Col to get home so we can go and get it... Photo's to follow.

Rubbish bag man came today too and emptied our rubbish bag which is perfect for the garage clean now we have somewhere to chuck the trash.... Bye again

Nise