Christmas Lights, Gingerbread and early nights

I am worn out and it's not even Christmas Day yet. You can tell as there have been so few posts this past week. The reason being that I have a special visitor and the computer is coming off second best.
I come from an emotional bunch of women and when my little sister arrived into Hobart airport I quite simply burst into tears. To have a little bit of family with you at this time of year is very special, especially when you live so far away from them all. The poor girl didn't quite know what she was in for when she thought a trip to Tassie to see her nephews MIGHT be a relaxing holiday. I apologise in advance little lady, we'll try and give you some peace!
Needless to say, we haven't quite managed any late nights at all and are quite pathetic in our ability to stay awake past 8.30pm. Just as well as we'd hate to bump into Santa and interrupt his busy schedule...

Chasing Calm

So how many of you are enjoying the Christmas chase right now? The chase to get cards written and posted, presents bought, wrapped and sent interstate and overseas, menus written and shopping lists completed, houses scrubbed for Christmas guests, while maintaining a calm and festive composure with oodles of energy to craft with the kids? Hmmm, I thought so...
I have had an 'ínteresting' few days, almost causing traffic chaos when my full shopping trolley rolled out of the car park (thankfully the boys weren't in it!), and causing utter chaos at the post office when the boys threw themselves and the shop contents here, there and everywhere while I tried to calmly write envelopes to my nearest and dearest.
So to you all I wish you, quite simply, Calm... and Peace. Something I relish and will strive for over the holidays.
This post is dedicated to my special friend who is returning to England next week with her precious family. There are people who pass through your life and leave an indellible mark on your heart. This gorgeous woman is such a person and I will miss our late night Skype's and Friday catch-ups. Safe travels dingoes x

And finally, Option 3!!

My ever so clever friend has just helped me create my CV. Staying up until midnight, while pregnant, is above and beyond the call of friendship duty, so I am eternally grateful. It was in the creation of my cover page that my latest title emerged and I think it's kinda fun! So it's staying for now, and I have a variation that I might change in a little while, just to keep things interesting.

Ghost of Christmas Past

I am undergoing the task of updating my CV. Selling myself on paper is not one of my favourite pastimes. However, I decided it would be clever to include some images of projects I have been involved with over the years, to allow future employers (hello out there....) a clearer understanding of what I do.

Anyway, as I trawled the archives I came across this souvenir. Back in my days in Ireland, I worked on a TV show called 'Beyond the Hall Door'. It was a weekly roundup of the latest looks, trends, designers, much like the zillion shows that are on the Lifestyle Channel today. As researcher and stylist I was in charge of the Hot Props section, mmm catchy title, but hey it was the '90's.

When a designer dropped out at the last minute, I was called in to fill her spot, and handed the gig of making a cheapo flat pack kitchen look 'fabulous'. Talk about swimming in merky water. I blagged my way through the entire experience and even had my Mum sewing buttons on my little blind the night before. By the end of the shoot I was beyond tired, but when I saw the other two designers efforts, I have to say I was pretty chuffed with my little citrus makeover. The interview was a complete blur, and still to this day I haven't seen it. Thank goodness You Tube didn't exist back then...

The only thing that bugs me still though, is that the tablecloth is hung backwards on the table.

A new tradition

I was beginning to wonder why there were no live trees for sale around Hobart. Is it still too early, am I just too keen to decorate? After some detective work I finally solved the big mystery and took the boys on a Christmas tree quest yesterday afternoon.
Just metres from the beach and for a tidy sum of $5, you can choose your very own Pine and cut it down yourself. All this and close to the airport where you can squeal and point and squeal some more at all the incoming and outgoing traffic. Yes, so, the planes were far more exciting than the actual tree cutting, but I  kept the enthusiastic flag flying and just loved the whole notion of this as a new family tradition. I'm sure the kids thought I was a nut, especially when I told them how much fun it would be to sit in their car seats with the tree poking them in their ears. They survived the journey, of course, although the tree did lose quite a few needles thanks to some nimble fingers. It's now sitting pretty and the boys have been very well behaved, not pulling it down yet, or ridding it of it's decorations. That will come, I'm sure.

Mmm surprises...

It's always when you think you've done something well, that you find something even better and wish you could start over. This is me a lot of the time. My Christmas wreath is my current craft obsession and today, while strolling the beach in Swansea I found these super spiky, star-shaped fronds. They of course found their way back home and have added a new dimension to my organic, recycled, creation. A little more lavender and I am finally happy.
I need to let it go now and move on to something else! The quest to find someone in Hobart to sell me a live Christmas tree.
Anyway, back to my post headline. I got a lovely surprise today, from the tax department of all things... a juicy little tax return cheque that I had almost forgotten about, arriving just in time for the festive spending season. See there IS good in even the most reviled sections of society. Hoorah!

Satisfying Sunday

Finally, a family day today. Husband...check, children...check, me...check. Delicious lunch in heavenly location, warm weather, bubbles as a little treat, and happy faces all round. There is nothing more glowing than a day which simply flows, everyone is on the same path and bounces off each other with smiles and contented sighs. Little cherubs sleep soundly as we journey through the countryside and allow us to relax our minds and simply cruise.
I made our Christmas wreath too, all with goods from the garden. Sticks and lavendar, weaving through...while listening to neighbours chattering and glasses clinking. 'Tis the season...

My new logo part 2

So, here is choice No. 2 on the all important, logo decision-making saga. This one is very clean, lends itself to a more hand-written approach, which is a little more intimate?
Comments please!

Bah Humbug...

When stressed or feeling a little below par, you either eat, or you don't. I eat. It doesn't help of course. It just makes you whinge more that you ate what you shouldn't, then drank what you shouldn't, then thought more about what you thought about in the beginning, that made you eat in the first place.

Today however I had the fortune of ridding my melancholy in the rolling garden of a lovely friend. Surrounded by fresh air, sunshine and an energising babbling brook, it did wonders for my soul. The boys were in their element; a super cool tree house, impressive sandpit, and endless supplies of cars to oogle over, I couldn't really have asked for more of a relaxing Friday. Add to that endless cups of tea and an exceedingly good Mr Kipling mince pie (note mince pie is in the SINGULAR), said melancholy was replaced by some of that well needed Christmas cheer. Ho ho ho...

What's behind the door today?

As a little girl, I loved to see what was behind the door on our Advent Calendar. I now have a good excuse to continue my little thrill and every morning before our 'Meetamix', we open each door and learn about the new picture. We thought we'd share what we found, so have a look on the column on the right each day and join us in our countdown to Christmas.

Make and Do

I love getting packages in the post. I just received a gorgeous bundle from Notemaker today, mostly Christmas gifts for my Mum, which I would of course totally like for myself. Delivered in a printed calico bag, all I wanted to do was sit cross legged and play with my new toys!
This morning, our resident chef also got creative and tackled the crafty gift he recently received from my sister in London. Although I did try and steal it a few times and make it myself, he built this fabulous cardboard owl today, with the help of our dexterous young apprentice. My love of paper products continues with this clever gift from Muji. Flat packed, easy to build with awesome design to boot, The Count, as I now like to call him, can be found brandishing his wings over our fireplace, far out of reach from nimble fingers.

My new logo?

I am testing out a few ideas for my logo, and thought what better way to get feedback than from my readers.The resident chef says he wouldn't have picked this one for me as it doesn't suit my writing style. Do you think it works? I'd love to know...

Celebrity spotting in downtown Hobart

As we are so well connected here, I managed to score an invitation for the boys to a very exclusive gathering in town. Despite the heavy downfalls, we were graced by the presence of the one and only Olivia at Fullers.

Her adventures and forays into music and art, often 'practiced' on the walls of her house or on the ears of her patient family, are humourously captured by New Yorker illustrator Ian Falconer and are top of the reading list for those of us 3 to 6 year olds. Her faithful followers include none other than David Hockney and Mikhail Baryshnikov, who says "Many dream of dancing on the stage, but Olivia has the legs for it."

Needless to say, the boys were quite starstruck. I was just worried that her pretty ears were going to swipe half the stock off the shelves!

Thank Crunchy it's Friday?

Drizzle. I hate drizzle, unless it's lemon and poured over a cake. I think Mother Nature must have been feeling particularly un-maternal when she invented all day rain. Entertaining toddlers with non TVactivities, especially boys who have no interest in painting, drawing or any craft-like activity, with the added bonus of the attention span of a goldfish, requires, well a PhD in creative patience.
Despite this, the rather frenetic energy at our regular Playgroup this morning, and the fact that it was also the end of the week, we did all manage to survive the session relatively unscathed, leaving with our two glittered Christmas tree decorations (proudly created, not by the boys but by their mother...) and our prize pack of dried apricots.
Just when I was thinking what on earth I could do to entertain them for the afternoon, a magical text came through and as quickly as that, the rest of the day was sorted. Don't you just love spontaneity?
So with five kids, one cat, two giant pizzas (home made of course), one rhubarb crumble (with ice cream), one bubbly bath (with five kids!) and miraculously no major accidents, the day finally came to an end with two very exhausted but very entertained little boys. Take that Mother Nature!

Freebies

Yes, I'll admit it. I am a stickler for free stuff and when I saw that Cleo magazine were giving away a free watch with their latest issue, well of course I had to have it. I know, embarrassing right? I mean what am I doing buying a magazine targeted at twenty somethings when I am a little ahem, passed reading advice from Peaches Geldof or oogling over the boys from Twilight.
Apart from my having to glue my new neon pink faux Toywatch together, I now have one that actually works, has totally impressed the boys and looks supercool...well I think so anyway.

Lost and Found

I thought I'd share with you the work of Oliver Jeffers. We were introduced to him by our friend Nickey who gave the boys How to Catch a Star to read. We found him again in the library last week and are currently reading The Way Back Home every night. The gentle way in which Jeffers tells his tale through word and brush, is heart-nourishing. What a thrill to see that someone has made his award winning Lost and Found into a short film. Shown on Channel 4 (UK) last Christmas and narrated by the warmly spoken Jim Broadbent, the DVD is now available through Amazon, UK. A rather excellent stocking filler for little ones this year I think. Santa, it will be on our list...

Yawn...

This dinky tile sums up the mood today. Me being the little bird and Child One being the crazy goon up top. I am only presuming that his 'humour' today does boil down to happiness and general one sided notions on how to behave. I meanwhile am staggering to make it past their bedtime after a full day with them both! It's the end of the week...not long before I can recharge my flat battery. And look its 10 o'c, far too late for me to be awake. No wonder I'm yawning.

Recharge + reboot = more inspiring and interesting blog-posts...

Major update

Look I know you are all chomping at the bit to find out, so I will not keep you in suspense any longer... We have tomatoes! Three plump, green beauties are growing voraciously and (we like to think) are the first on our street. Following swiftly behind them are some little pip squeaks, and if little hands will only stay away from picking the poor plants, we might be able to sample one in a few weeks time, maybe even for Christmas. Woopee!

Esqueeze me!

While many 'mainlanders' choke in the current heatwave, my compatriots up north are preparing for the chilly months ahead. For those of you who still hold your littlies hand, here is the perfect pair of mittens. Not only do they keep your digits dinky, but they also have an inbuilt sidecar for your precious pickle. Squeeze Me mittens are sadly only available in the US, but I thought they definitely were worth a post.

Chance Encounters

I decided it was Excursion Day, so while the fourth member of our family slogged away in the kitchen, we three took ourselves off to a nearby Wildlife Park on the outskirts of Hobart. I am not usually a massive fan of these places. Previous experiences have been all about stinky enclosures and sad looking animals, so when we drove up the hill through an understated gateway, I was instantly taken by the surroundings. Ok so the signposts were pretty terrible and I actually turned round to go home at one stage, but something pulled me back and brought us to this little slice of animal heaven. Run by an incredibly passionate and super friendly guy, and helped out by his Dad and equally enthusiastic staff, Bonorong Wildlife Park specialises in the rearing and conservation of Tasmania's natural wildlife.
I don't know how or why but we instantly connected with these wonderful people and ended up drinking tea and sharing stories with Greg and his Dad, while Jack, played,fed and hopped along with a mob of kangaroos in the nearby field. Our little two year old floated amongst these passive animals, letting out a squeal every few minutes, refusing to leave his new friends even when coaxed with 'a special treat'. It was so unlike any other wildlife compound I have visited and I can safely say it's the first time I have ever felt comfortable with the idea of animals in captivity. These creatures were so peaceful and seriously chilled out, while people roamed through 'their turf', happy to be touched and peered at. Whatever Greg and his staff are doing here, they are playing angels to these animals.
We have been invited back to chat some more and watch the animals at twilight, when all the bus tours have left. Apparently it's when the park really comes alive. I can't wait...

Freedom?

We were about to walk out the door when we realised a little thrush had flown into the living room. Flapping into the window the poor thing got all confused and couldn't find the door. This was the second time this had happened and admittedly I had to call for help to save the first casualty. This time though, I had to summon up all courage to actually touch a flapping animal. I mean I had to show I could help this poor bird. Jack was watching and looking at me as if to say, "What do we do now Mummy?"
So after many deep breaths and a brain wave of wearing the gardening gloves (I just couldn't do it bare handed, ridiculous, I know), I climbed onto the table and did my very best to gently capture the terrified little creature. After a few failed attempts, I finally got him and with sheer joy and elation set him free. It was one of the most invigorating feelings I have experienced in ages and felt so proud to conquer my stupid fear. We went for a walk today and found a park that held a huge sculpture of three women, setting birds free. Coincidence or providence?
Sadly, my bravery medal will not be in the post, as this evening, we found a curled up little body lying peacefully in the flower bed. Perhaps the little mite was so frightened by the ordeal that it died of shock. The only thing that stops me from dreadful guilt is the fact that we tried our best to save him and saw him fly away. Perhaps that was his spirit flying and his little body was too tired to follow. Rest well, little bird.

She Sells Seashells at the Seashore

What is it about the beach that awakens your senses and gives you a whole dose of feel-goodness? Finding yet another glorious squeaky white beach only an hour from our door was another lovely discovery today and to share it as an entire family was all the better. As the boys splashed about, ate sand and climbed the dunes, I fished for shells and found a treasure trove. I'm not sure what it is about it, but I love looking for pretty molluscs . As a girl I loved to look for stones on our beaches in Ireland, I think I got it from my Mum. Transfer that to Aussie shores and I just become hypnotised by the shapes and subtle colours. So I'm sharing with you my findings today and will enjoy looking at my souvenirs, a lovely memory of this sunny Saturday.

Wardrobe malfunction?

We were happily playing at Kindergym last week when I realised I had made a major fashion blunder. It wasn't worn out socks or navy clashing with black, but something much more embarrassing. I had dressed our two boys AND myself in stripes. When I later hung out the washing I realised I had a minor obsession. Almost every item that came out of the laundry basket was striped, even the new pillowcases I just bought. It got worse. I have now realised that almost sixtypercent of our family's clothing is, yep you guessed it, striped. Scarves, gloves,tights, t-shirts, sweaters, you name it. Thankfully, my obsession has not gone below the belt, although hang on, those boxer shorts didn't escape. Gee I wonder who bought them? Right, I think it's time I moved on and embraced a new pattern. Check, mate?

Enough of the family matters..

I need to get back to sharing the bits and pieces I relish and take a break from family matters. I have just found this 'uplifting' take on the greeting card by Korean O-Check Design Graphics. Their range is absolutely edible and I would like to own every single thing they create. If you click on the image it will take you to the Australian online store that represents them. Christmas is coming.... yes please!!

An afFAIR to Remember

It was supposed to be a pleasant morning at the Steiner school fair. The pocket lady had an apron filled with treats, the coconut shy booth was set and ready for action, and the sausages were sizzling with plenty of hungry mouths to feed. Kids of every age beemed in delight and showed proud parents their classrooms and vegie patch.
The boys and I decided (well I did, the boys really are too little for excursion decisions) that instead of risking another tomato plant torture at home, we would visit the popular fair and catch up with some friends. All was going relatively smoothly until Jack fell asleep in the car on the way there. Hang on it's only 11am? Putting it down to a quick energy booster, we carried on and joined the crowds making their way to the school. We hit the slide and swings on arrival but only managed to enjoy the former before a face plant off the slide halted the proceedings. A quick dust off and we headed for the sausage sizzle.
Maybe it was the relaxed atmosphere that led me to casually allow Jack wander off towards the playfield, or the distraction of chatting to a newly found friend. Regardless, within seconds, I had lost him. I need not remind any of you who have experienced losing your child for the first time, what thoughts race through your head and I will not impart those to you now. On the funny side, I must have looked a sight, flying through the bumpy school terrain, with a pinched face and swirling head desperately looking through all the little legs to find my own precious ones. The word quickly got out as I managed to blubber his description to the office. With help from my sympathetic friend and utter strangers we set about 'operation lost child'.
It was a long and lengthy ten minutes, but after choosing to retrace my steps for the fourth time and choosing the little group of trees to check again, there he was, holding the hand of the kindest man I now know, pointing to me and smiling innocently. I of course was a basket case and squeezed the breath from him, while Charlie, quite unperturbed by the entire ordeal, fell asleep.

Friday Treats

So this is how I felt yesterday after a week of not so much sleeping. We've been experiencing a few issues in the going to bed department with our littlies that thankfully (and without jinxing it), I feel are now much improved. This week has disappeared and I don't know what I have accomplished. I think I will leave that gold star to my lovely husband (trumpet horn), who today, was asked to permanently join the team he has been cooking with over the past few weeks. The upside is that the business is super dynamic and really sees his talents. The downside is that we won't see him for dust over the next while. BUT I am not one to complain, this is yet another supercool moment in our Hobart adventure. Hang on, maybe I can claim an accomplishment this week... successfully reinventing the bedtime ritual is definitely worth a self pat on the back.
So why have I titled this Friday Treats? Well this morning, I had a magical forty minute sleep in, the boys didn't whinge once in eight hours and I am now enjoying complete silence as I type. Treats indeed.

They're in...

Hold the phone, stop the press. It's happened. The tomatoes are in. All we need now is some more of this sunshine and come January we'll be harvesting plump juicy red ones like there is no tomorrow. Chutney anyone?
For all you non Hobartians, tomato planting is generally the most popular topic of conversation after the weather...

P.S.

I'm testing the market and want to see whether I am interesting enough to encourage my good readers to click through to my full blog...so from now on, if my post is lengthy (those of you who subscribe) will need to click on the post title to read the end of the story...

Daytripping

How often can you casually take off on a Friday; kids and husband in tow, and drive to an island that glistens with white sand and purist beauty that breathes nothing but freshness and serenity, all within an hours drive from a capital city. We pinched ourselves a few times and savoured every moment of our delicious day trip to Bruny Island. It was my sister, who on a chance quickie phone call from London, made me aware of how unbelievably lucky we are. As she made her way past John Lewis on Oxford Street, on a chilly Friday night, there we were, passing hedgerows and blue skies on the other side of the world, chatting, care of the wonderous mobile phone, sharing our thoughts and marvelling at our distinctive lives. Although I am so physically distant from my two dear sisters it is so precious to have moments like this and be able to share and be reminded of the wondrous life we are now living.
Oh and in case you were wondering, these four boys were parked at the ferry terminal, doing a rather pathetic, but super enthusiastic job of selling their wares. They got our supercool sign of the day award...

Sewing the seeds...

Huge excitement. We are seeing green. Yes shoots are bursting up and our seedlings are all systems go. Little did I think that we would be haring to the kitchen window each morning to see if anything had happened overnight. But I tell you, it must be this air, as all our teeny vegies are working gangbusters and are nearly ready for the big bad vegie patch!
For want of sounding completely corny, and in the words of Tears for Fears, "anything is possible when you're sewing the seeds of love". Oh dear.. too much country air...

You are my sunshine. My only sunshine...

We love to talk about the weather. "Hello, nice to meet you..bit chilly today isn't it?" "Hello, yes we've just moved here..oh so Hobart isn't usually this cold..or wet? So when does it actually warm up?"

Until Monday, I was very upbeat about the rather inclement weather here. It wasn't the mist or the chilly temperatures that finally got to me. It was the rain, the soft incessant spray that seems neverending... ho hum. Anyway, we managed to escape the drabby drizzle at our local kinder gym, where the boys exhausted themselves and I checked out potential pals. When we finally got home, magically the sun appeared and our day ended up playing hop scotch and the ever popular 'Don't eat the stones, Charlie'.

Jack was particularly impressed with me when I suggested we create his very own vegie patch, as Daddy seems to have completely taken over the garden and was giving him zero room to "dig big holes". So, as shown, Jack now has his precious triangle, and maybe, just maybe, Daddy might give him a seed or two.

The Ultimate Party Accessory

At a very lovely birthday party last night, I came across this most supercool of party accessories. This fabulous original 'no hands' wine glass was designed in the 1970's and is worn around your neck with clever bulbed stem that allows neither drip nor drop. What I found so utterly terrific was that this very glass has lasted more than thirty years, travelled across the country and is still going strong. If only I knew how to blow glass, I would be recreating these by the dozen... anyone interested?
(and thank you to the lovely Mrs L for allowing me to photograph her)

Becoming a local

Today it was supposed to be wet and 14 degrees. I think someone in the Met office was having a bad day as we had nothing but sunshine and warm skin, lovely! I am madly in love with our little garden, where Jasmine and Lavender take pride of place and this lovely creeper I photographed tumbles over the wall from next door. Inspired by all this nature, the boys and I set off to the Botanical Gardens, and after lunch on the grass beside the giant floral clock, we purchased another load of tomato plants for the vegie patch. It's all about the tomatoes at the moment, when to plant them, what varieties are good, hmmm how's the soil looking...all sorts of things that I am pretending to understand, but really haven't a clue. All I know is that I love the smell of the leaves, it reminds me of the greenhouses we ran through with our cousins many moons ago in Ireland.
My question for the day is though...after you move to a new town, when are you referred to as a local? After only one week, I was very proudly able to provide my lovely new chum with some local information that she (my oracle) required . Now that surely scores me major brownie points, don't you think? Tomorrow, I think I'll apply for mayor.

Setting up Camp

Moving house is well known to be a very stressful activity so to relay the past week's frustrations would be a bore. In fact, apart from the on going challenges of parenting, there really were few. So here I sit, with a pretty maple tapping at the window behind me, a cup of tea brewing and the peaceful sound of two boys sleeping. Ah bliss.

Today is our first day without Daddy, so while he sets out to conquer Hobart, the boys and I have been busy checking out what's what in town. After my third trip to Dick Smith (why, I will explain later), we strolled the downtown streets to check out what Tassie's capital has to offer. Thankfully, my city slicker side was relieved to find a number of stylish stores that will satisfy my shopping needs, and I breathed a huge sigh of relief to find the ABC store, critical when in need of some new rhymes and car stories. I was also very delighted to add a very important item to my new warmer wardrobe. While shopping for compost at the weekend, I stumbled across a very shapely pair of gumboots. Although I need three people to help me get them on, they are really rather smart. Who needs to fork out $100's for a pair of Hunters, when you can just pop down to your local Mitre 10 and pick up a pair for a tenner?

In limbo

So no photos with this one as I am not on my computer. Nor am I at my desk, nor am I in my living room. All belongings are in a ridiculously huge container...somewhere in limbo...while we wait for Saturday to arrive, D Day...or should that be T Day? Total strangers are now up to date with our move as Jack shares our plans with anybody who will listen. My thoughts are particulary distracted by potential colour schemes that will improve the current rag rolled interior finishes gracing our new abode. Thoughts that distract me from having to face so many emotional goodbyes to dear friends. Today however I digressed nicely by visiting not 1 but 3 new bundles who recently graced some dear friends. To top it off, I arrived home to find our blond 4 legged friend (of whose house we are currently staying in) tucking into our bag of curry powder. Mix that with a whole heap of Chinese noodles, yes, uncooked, and spray that with a bit of tabasco, well actually, quite a lot, and we were faced with a rather messy floor and a very dopey dog. Poor Seamus, his eyes were watering... I'm not surprised.

Saying Goodbye

When you live in one place for as long as we have, the emotional attachment is a significant one. We partied, studied, married, conceived, laboured and brought two little boys into this house and now, seven years on, it's time to leave. But one thing I have realised; once all the pictures come down from the walls and our personalities fade from the rooms, this place is no longer ours. What has been, we are taking with us. The soul of our dwelling, our spirits, will follow us south and help us to create another home, where many more memories will be made.

Tangerine Dream

Waking up this morning to an orange outlook was certainly a different way to start the day. Overnight, Australia has succumbed to dust storms in New South Wales...earthquakes in Victoria, and bushfires in Queensland. Not a great outlook for summer is it? And the forecast for Tassie? Showers and 14 degrees...

This won't hurt a bit...

I never had a problem with dentists. Until today. What was supposedly an easy peasy wisdom tooth extraction, well, wasn't. So anaesthetics are supposed to numb the pain right? WRONG. It appears that I need half a tonne of the stuff for it to take effect. This is what we discovered this afternoon.

I will now claim to know what it is like to be tortured, as having a tooth pulled with not enough of the numbing juice is something I never want to experience again. But I don't know what's worse, the pain or the shock of what had just occurred?

Thankfully I only had to run across the road to pour my little eyes out and was given fabulous sympathy and comic relief when I shared my grim story and watched the faces grimace and squeal.

Now I am looking forward to feeling my face again, and leaving the dentist alone for a while... and the picture, well, sorry, I had to share it with you. Oh and to my sister who is having hers pulled soon, just make sure you are knocked out cold.

A Comedy of Errors

Amidst all the chaos that is involved in moving house, it is good to stop and have a good laugh. I had that luxury yesterday when our eldest found the fake poo that my very mature older sister left to us following her sojourn in Sydney. Picking it up, he shows it to me and says "Mmmm cake", and proceeds to take a bite. Oh brother...

A Fantastic Distraction

A distraction of any kind is currently very welcome around here. Packing and starting our goodbyes are not my favourite tasks of late, so when an upcoming Roald Dahl adaptation was mentioned, I hopped right onto You Tube to watch the trailer. Wes Anderson's first foray into the world of animation heralds an all star line up, lending their voices to the slapstick characters in Fantastic Mr Fox. Looks like this clever adaptation will be out just in time for Christmas.

Full Moon?

There should have been a full moon tonight judging by the afternoon we just had. What is usually a pretty cool playgroup session was today one of total bedlam. It seemed that every kid had been affected by the Crazies and were either hooning their trikes into walls or hurling themselves off the plastic castle with gay abandon. Tears and tantrums, foot stomps and face plants all rolled into one, while without persuasion, every Mum transformed herself into supreme warriors; fed babies, avoided near death carnage and solved sharing showdowns while still enjoyingd a strong cup of tea.
It was the face that I looked at on the way home that pretty much summed up the experience; one of complete and utter exhaustion that bleerily stared out the window. I think that face is going to sleep well tonight. Oh and the boys will too.

PenPals

On a recent trip to a lovely Sydney store, I bumped into the fabulous MM. When I mentioned our Tasmanian plans she, as usual, was hot to trot with places to go, people to meet. That night, as promised, I received an email address of a fabulous femme she thought I should know. Within minutes of me writing a hello, the warmest reply arrived from said femme. Since then, I have been overwhelmed by her generous spirit, advice and general Do's and Dont's Guide to Hobart. Our regular correspondance reminds me of old penpal days and how funny the concept is to strike up a friendhsip with somene you never met (or know what they look like). This can of course be remedied by emailing photos and picking up the phone. But it is the very nature of the initial correspondance that provides us with curiosity and pure enjoyment. So to my new Hobart penpal, and to the other lovely ladies who I have met and been graced with their generosity, thank you for your warm welcome. Let's do lunch...

Home Sweet Home

With our move to Tasmania only weeks away we breathed a great sigh of relief last night. This little red headed beauty is our new home and according to my gorgeous new Tassie BFF's, we have chosen THE supercool suburb to live in...(all for a fraction of what it would cost in Sydney).
OK so inside, she needs a little TLC, the paint brushes will be busy refreshing the, ahem, current colour schemes. But with warm, wooden floorboards and pretty fireplaces, and MOST excitingly... a DISHWASHER all ready and waiting, it's going to be lots of fun playing housey.
After 10 years of apartment living we'll be like kids in a candy store. I am seeing Wisteria out the front...organdie drapes floating in the windows...a crisp white picket fence...ok ok, it's only a rental, we'll save the dreaming for the house we actually buy!

Cries and Misdemeanours

My escape into blogdom has been thoroughly rattled this week by the upcoming big move to Tasmania. Not one chore has been successfuly completed nor have I managed to achieve half the things I set out to do. This has been my week...

Monday: Amount of times I asked Jack to stop sitting on Charlie - 160. Boxes packed -2

Tuesday: Lost my keys, again. Found them. Lost them again. Boxes packed - 1

Wednesday: Downed 3 champagnes in quick succession at high school art exhibition and wore shoes that were too tight. Boxes packed - 0

Thursday: Peed on twice while changing Charlie's nappy. Boxes packed - 0

Friday: Lost my marbles. Got homeopathic remedy to try and remind me where I left them. Boxes packed - does half a box count?

Saturday: Dropped mobile phone into full bowl of whipped cream at birthday party. Boxes packed - 0

Sunday: Father's Day. FINALLY, a relaxing morning, the sun shone, Daddy's new kite taken for a test flight. Very successful. No tears. Nothing lost. Bliss... Boxes packed - boxes? what boxes?

Bragging Rights

It's not often that I gloat so openly and publicly about my children - I usually leave that to their Dad - but today I am breaking with tradition.
We attended a wedding yesterday in which, between us, we knew one person...the groom. Ok so we had to dust off our conversation cards, but thanks to our two little men, we firmly established ourselves among the wedding party. Jack in all his finery was very helpful and excelled in bubble blowing, petal throwing and clapping on cue, but it was the dance floor where he showed his true talent. Whether he takes after his Mum or Dad with his slick moves is contestable, but suffice to say, he broke some hearts last night. In particular, the mystery blond in the pretty pink dress, who took a shine to our teeny Travolta. They held hands, shuffled to the Gipsy Kings and momentarily took the attention away from the bride and groom. His solo routine was equally popular with high energy bouncing and arm jigging hard to beat. Meanwhile, in his Daddy's arms, it was all a little too much for Charlie, who slept through the whole thing.

Before and After

Continuing on from my initial Before and After project, here is some inspiration for you. Ever wondered what to do with all those used milk formula tins? In these sustainable times, why not recycle them? I found some really cute paper in Spotlight of all places. Bring to that the fabulous Mod Podge and some cute ribbon and hey presto, a pretty new storage tin!

Hyper-bole

By the way, I have just figured out how to add a hyperlink to those images that I use (that deserve credit). So if you want to know where this cute image is from, click it and find out!

Lemon Loveliness

I mentioned in my post last week, a certain lemon drizzle cake that is delicious with a cup of tea. I thought I'd share this foolproof recipe, with all credit to Nigella Lawson.

For the cake:
125 g unsalted butter
175g caster sugar
2 eggs
zest 1 lemon
175g self-raising flour
pinch salt
4 tablespoons milk
23x13x7cm loaf tin, buttered and lined

For the syrup:
juice of 1.5 lemons (4 tbsp)
100g icing sugar

Preheat oven to 180 oC/gas mark 4 and butter and line you loaf tin well.
Cream together butter and sugar, add eggs and lemon zest, beating well.
Add flour and salt, folding in gently but thoroughly, and then the milk.
Spoon into prepared loaf tin and put in oven. While the cake is cooking, make the syrup by putting lemon juice and sugar into a small saucepan and heat gently so that the sugar dissolves.
Bake the cake for 45 mins, or until golden, risen in the middle and an inserted cake-tester comes out clean. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, puncture the top of the loaf all over with cake-tester. Pour over the syrup, trying to let the middle absorb as well as the sides, then leave to soak up the rest. Don't try and take the cake out of the tin until it is completely cold, as it will be sodden with syrup and might crumble.

Now sit down with a cup of Twining's Afternoon Tea and enjoy.

Retail therapy?

So it's true what they say. Retail therapy works. OK the actual ACT of shopping, you can have, or maybe is it that I had the two littlies in a bulky stroller drowning any semblance of pleasure? I have to admit, I haven't bought myself anything new for quite a while, as I've been rather spoilt by my elder sister who regularly sends me H&M treats from London. Oh to have a personal shopper...Oh to have H&M here...

So enough was enough, I decided it was time to brave the shops and grab myself some fresh items for Spring. Maybe it's because I am so out of practice, and listen to too much soft dub, but going into stores that are hitting decibels I haven't heard in a while made me whince. Ighh techno before midday, please, too loud!! Oh dear, I swore I would never think those thoughts, and look, it's happened.

Anyway, I braved the changing room and ignored the horrible lighting that did very unkind things to my post baby body. Thankfully I chose well and everything fit, so was able to pay with lightning speed and get home before the boys lost their marbles. It was this morning, when I put my fresh new clothes on that I felt the benefit of my retail experience. I feel modern again, rather than super dowdy, out of fashion and tired. Nice.

..and the kitchen sink

The oh so enticing job of packing up our belongings is now looming over us like a thunderous cloud. I have managed to fill five boxes without taking a breath, with our endless collection of cookbooks and magazines looking like they will take up a whole container of their own. And then there is Vinnie's vinyl...

So I took the foolish step of packing a box or two the other morning while the boys were up and about. Big mistake. We have a fairly established collection of trucks and toys that should keep any child amused for hours. But it was the act that I was undertaking that seemed so much more interesting. And then there was the packing tape that could be picked off the boxes...oh and did I mention the big black marker that Jack got his hands on? He was very helpful 'labelling' the boxes for me, narrowly missing the carpet before I 'borrowed' it from him and placed it far out of reach.

I now have to face the job of dealing with the three, yes three, old basins kept from an old renovation job, that in my infinite wisdom, thought would be a fabulous addition to our fantasy home. Six years later and no such home to speak of, these sinks are still sitting in the back yard. Ok, if there was one, I wouldn't really be writing about it, but THREE? What was I thinking?

Spellcheck?

On our recent reconnaissance mission to Hobart, we stumbled across this sign in the Botanical Gardens. With a nervous giggle we found this little blunder, should we be worried? Maybe I should offer them my copywriting services...

It's the little things...

I don't advocate myself as any kind of tea expert but I seem to have started a bit of a fan club with this particular Twinings blend. Before I became pregnant I never considered a cup of tea as a pleasurable experience. In fact I can remember being offered my first taste by my aunt. I think I had a broken arm at the time and was convalescing in their house one weekend. My older sister and I used to love going to our older cousins and get to run through the fields and play in the tomato greenhouses nearby. Anyway, although I was in quiet adoration of my surroundings and this particular moment of attention, I just didn't get what all the fuss was about and totally pretended to like it.
It has taken me nearly thirty years and a lot of raging hormones later to give it another try. And now I relish a good cuppa and a bickie, or even better still, a slice of homemade lemon drizzle cake! As a mother, when you have a few moments to sit still, it's the little things that help you along your day.

Good Housekeeping

When Vinnie came home with 'The Country Women's Association Cookery Book and Household Hints' book, I wondered was this a subtle comment on my housekeeping skills. To some, my ability to 'keep house' can be questionable and the state of the house can often reflect my mood. Neat as a pin - content. Looking like a bomb hit? Well, you can imagine.
With our big move to Tasmania now only around the corner, I thought it appropriate to open this bible to many. I mean, if I don't have a good scone recipe to welcome my new neighbours, I won't stand a chance there will I?
Not only did I find infinite wisdom on the art of a good scone, but there are pages dedicated to jam making, chutneys, sandwich fillings and pudding sauces. But it was the Simple Home Remedies chapter that had me hooked. If you ever find yourself choking on a fish bone, here is how to remove it;
"Swallow a raw egg, and follow, if possible, by eating plenty of mashed potato or bread. The egg will carry the bone to the stomach and the potato will prevent it from doing any harm there."
Who knew?
Oh and I bought myself my first pair of dish gloves today. After ten years of washing dishes gloveless, I decided it was time to look after my poor little hands. Gloves have come a long way since those dreadful rubber Marigolds...