Mummas Mumblings

Well hello there....

2011-09-02T15:59:00.002+10:00

Hello there my blog world friends.

Have you been well?

I hope so.

I've been missing, caught up in everyday life and exhaustion; but thought it was time to drop in and say hello.

I've been thinking today about how people influence our lives.

How people can just pop into our world for just a moment and change a part of who we are without even trying.

Expose us to new things.

Show us beauty in places we hadn't experienced.

The friendship can be fleeting but the impact can last.

I guess the thing is making sure not to mourn the fact that it was only a brief moment you spent together and rejoice in the fact that you have now discovered a new joy, a new way to enrich your soul.

My soul has a new love and it's one no one would ever have guessed.

(no idea where image credit should go for this one. if you know let me know)

Bedroom Makeover part IV

2011-07-14T16:57:00.001+10:00

I got fed up of waiting to do the boys bedroom makeover so completed "stage 1" last weekend.

Here are so crappy before and after pictures for your viewing pleasure.

I seriously suck at taking interior photos.

Enjoy x

Before:

After:

No excuses.

2011-06-11T17:02:00.000+10:00

Yesterday I started week 3 of C25K.

Week 3 includes 3 minute intervals.

That's right. For the first time I am counting my running in minutes not seconds.

It doesn't sound like much, but to me it is.

I did it.

I did it on a day when I felt like my eyes were burning from the inside due to weeks of not sleeping.

I did it on a day when a felt like I was drowning.

I did it even though I had to go back to the gym three times because someone else was always using 'my' treadmill.

And I was proud. Beyond belief proud.

I can't wait to built up the confidence to run outside.

Running on the treadmill makes me feel free.

I can only imagine what it feels like to run outside.

I've decided that once I finish C25K I'm going to go outside and complete Gateway to 8k which sets you up for 50mins of running. Yeah I know. I just did 3 minutes and I'm already thinking about running for nearly an hour.

One can dream right?

Again.

2011-06-10T21:59:00.001+10:00

I've been rather slack these last few weeks.

That's what happens when I hit these dark times. I'm so over struggling with this stupid depression crap. Like really over it. I don't even get it. If I had some major traumatic childhood or something then at least there would be an obvious cause. Instead I'm just depressed. For no apparent reason. No matter how many times I fight it off it always comes back.

It pushes me down.

I fight back.

It knocks me down.

I get back up.

Again and again and again.

Like I said. OVER IT.

I seriously hate that my kids have their lives effected by this.

I wanted their childhood to be filled with sunshine and lollipops and rainbows.Not a mother who bursts into tears for no reason and struggles to leave the house or even get out of bed some days.

This is not what our lives are meant to look like. This seriously needs to change. It's time that this changes. But how many times have I said that?

I just want to scream at this thing F@#% OFF. Let me live. Like really live. Please.

The perfect lipstick.

2011-06-04T17:39:00.001+10:00

I've been thinking lately that I'd really love to find my perfect lipstick shade.

Actually I really wouldn't mind having a collection for different occasions.

Currently I don't really wear lipstick. Not really. I have one. But I tend to put it on and then blot it off so my lips are stained but the colour is not super strong.

I wouldn't mind if my perfect lipstick comes from Chanel.

It fact I'm rather hoping that it does.

My current lipstick is rather intense. Without blotting it off I wouldn't feel very comfortable in it for everyday wear.
Although if my confidence grew the perhaps I could handle it.
Here it is in all it's full strength glory.

Crappy webcam picture featuring my $2 Sams Warehouse lippy.

Doubt.

2011-06-02T13:31:00.000+10:00

"Doubt means don't. Don't move. Don't answer. Don't rush forward."

Oh Oprah, you wise wise woman.

C25K

2011-05-30T20:11:00.000+10:00

So waiting a week between runs that are meant to be every second day is rather slack.

I used the treadmill instead of the road today.

Find it so much easier being able to see my progress as I go along.

Last week doing day 1 I thought I would die and didn't even complete it properly.

Today I did it.

So I'm counting today as day 1 again because yeah, a week gap is too much.

I feel good for the first time in a long while.

Guess that's why they suggest exercise for depression huh?

Book Club?

2011-05-25T10:37:00.000+10:00

Book 4/26

Oh seriously. This book is love.

Oh the back it has praise for Natasha Solomons last book 'Mr Rosenblum's List'.

"Prepare to be seriously charmed"

And that is how I would describe this book as well.

Charming.

I fell in love with the main character Elise.

The whole thing.

Charming.

Lovely.

Read it.

Well that went well...not

2011-05-24T10:11:00.003+10:00

I think I'm going to have to remember the quote from my last post.

"No matter how slow you go, you are still lapping everybody on the couch."

Cause boy was I slow.

And breathless.

I may be more unfit then I though.

It was defiantly depressing.

Sunday I completed day 1 of Couch to 5k.

Well I kinda completed.

Good enough right???

This is going to be more challenging then I thought, but I need this. I need to put myself and my health first. What good am I to my kids of I neglect myself?

So the 'stats'.

Starting weight: 60kg

Pre-baby weight: 52kg

Will be happy with: under 55kg, even if it's 54.9

Motivation O'clock

2011-05-22T00:18:00.000+10:00

It's time for me to get fit.

I want to lose the last of this baby weight and I want to be able to go for a walk/jog for some alone time rather then locking myself in my room reading blogs and eating chocolate.

I love blogs, but surely exercise would be more productive?

So I've developed a plan.

I have one day a week where all three children are gone.

One at kindy and two in daycare.

So on this day I have no excuse as to why I haven't been exercising.

I know that I feel better when I've been exercising, so why don't I do it?

I also have at least one afternoon a week free whilst the children are playing with their dad. (They play more then just this one afternoon, I'm talking about scheduled "mummy with no kids time")

I have both a gym membership AND access to a gym within our complex.

I really can't complain about lack of resources can I.

Every second weekend the children spend the weekends at their dad's place.

During this time I'm sure if I wanted to I could fit a workout in.

So my plan is:

Friday mornings straight to gym from kindy drop off.

One afternoon a week 'sceduled' gym time.

Every second Saturday make time for the gym.

I'm going to follow the 'Couch to 5km Running Program'.

I've even got MP3 downloaded with instructions of when to walk and when to jog, all ready to go.

All I've been lacking is the motivation.

I'm thinking I may even be brave and post my weight and a before picture on here so everyone can follow my progress (exciting blogging here folks).

So there it is.

My plan all written out and sent into cyberspace.

Hopefully someone kicks my butt if I don't update with progress.

That can be your job.

xxx

A bedroom makeover III

2011-05-08T08:48:00.000+10:00

I am loving the process of gathering things together for the boys bedroom makeover.

I've never sat down to really think through a room and consider each piece before.

It's seriously fun.

And seriously takes up a lot of my online time.

Thought I would share some of the pictures from my inspiration file, cause everybody likes a little bit of inspiration.

A Song For My Sons

2011-05-07T17:30:00.001+10:00

Last week I got given the Sara Groves album Tell Me What You Know.

I have wanted it for ages but never got around to grabbing a copy.

So yep, it's now on repeat in the car and this is my obsession song of the day.

Had to share.

ETA: When I searched youtube for the song this was the only clip that I could find. It was made by some woman who liked the song but has daughters not sons. Sorry should have mentioned that before.

xxx

This is a song for my sons for when they understand it

You know how life is full you know we couldn't plan it

your dad and I prayed for strength and understanding

for things we couldn't see or comprehend

This is a song for you, to carry in your pocket

take all our love with you in all the paths you walk in

I can't say your life will always go like it should

but I can say that God is always good

and when the cold wind blows like I know it will

and when you feel alone like I know you will

and when the cold wind blows like we know it will

Don't let your love grow

Don't let your love grow cold

This is a song for my sons for when they understand it

You know how life is full you know we couldn't plan it

your dad and I prayed for strength and understanding

for things we couldn't see or comprehend

This is a song from my heart a small refrain to hold you

for times when we're apart and I cannot console you

Be honest with yourself and don't forget to pray

and read your bible everyday

and when the cold wind blows like I know it will

and when you feel alone like I know you will

and when the cold wind blows like I know it will

Don't let your love grow

Don't let your love grow cold

Book Club?

2011-05-06T11:28:00.000+10:00

Book 3/26

I was given this book as a gift yesterday and realised fairly quickly that I had actually seen the movie a few years ago with a friend.

Was a nice quick read and the 'moral' of the story does leave you thinking.

Could imagine passing this one on.

24 things to do.

2011-05-03T07:23:00.001+10:00

Take a family holiday (that doesn't involve visiting family)

Go on a hike.

Lose 10kgs.

Get a manicure.

Perfect our daily routines.

Keep a food and exercise diary.

Go to Yungaburra markets.

~~Take a camping trip.~~

Go to the shooting range.

Fix up my car.

Buy a kind size bed.

Plan another fundraising tea party.

Blog more consistently.

Go a month without facebook.

Complete Couch to 5km's.

~~At least once explore some local touristy rainforest near by.~~

Learn to play poker.

Find and purchase the perfect dining table.

Read a book a fortnight.

Try a food I don't think I like.

Go to the theatre regularly.

Have saving aside for nothing.

Don't kill my children.

Be happy.

I did it.

I didn't actually think I would get to tick this one off.

But I am.

We went camping.

Two nights in the Daintree.

It was fun.

It totally sucked.

Don't know which one is the winner.

Perhaps will try again when the little miss is a bit older.

She spent the weekend crying, and sulking, then crying some more. Oh there was definite refusal to sleep as well.

Perhaps if I had gotten a few hours sleep at some point of the weekend I would have enjoyed it more.

But it was OK. I'm not refusing to ever go again. Just refusing to go again within a year.

Big difference.

It's baking time.

2011-04-28T10:52:00.000+10:00

As we speak I have a White Chocolate Mud Cake baking away peacefully in the oven.

I am beyond nervous.

I never used this recipe before.

The cake is for a friends 30th birthday party.

A formal, special birthday party.

Eeek. Pressure much?

I'm going to attempt to make my first two tiered cake.

White chocolate mud for the base and Red Velvet for the second tier.

Fingers crossed for me please.

xxx

Easter.

2011-04-21T19:54:00.000+10:00

image via weheartit

Have a great Easter extra long weekend.

See you next week.

A bedroom makeover II

2011-04-21T11:45:00.000+10:00

Nearly two years ago I bought the boys some rather boring draws from 'Sams Warehouse' on special.

They are seriously nothing exciting.

The plan was always to cover the fronts of the draws with wrapping paper/fabric/wallpaper.

You get the idea.

The plan has had it's place in the back of my mind since the day we first out them together but I've never seen anything perfectly perfect.

That was until a few weeks ago when I stumbled across wrapping paper by Mae.

I have always been I fan of their fabric decals but never knew they did wrapping paper too.

After weeks of staring at the pictures on my computer screen I decided to take the leap and buy some.

So now I have wrapping paper in the post waiting for be modge podged onto some draws, where I'll quite possibly stare at it some more.

And no, I'm not going to tell you which one I chose.

Life is better with surprises anyway.

The bedroom makeover is starting to take shape in my head.

Can't wait for it to start to take shape in for real.

A bedroom makeover.

2011-04-20T08:28:00.000+10:00

I'm currently in the planning stages of a bedroom makeover for the boys shared bedroom.

Their room drives me batty.

I count buying the bunk beds as in my 'Top 5 Home Purchase Mistakes'. (hmmm more of that later)

So their room looks wrong even when clean, this is going to change.

The problem with decorating for older (if you count nearly 5 as older) is that they have opinions about everything. It's not just a matter of me deciding I like something and them going along with it.

There is also the fact that really I don't know what I want it to look like in the end.

I do know that today I'm totally perving on the fitted sheet from this set.

Dot to Dot Percale Bedding by Garnet Hill

Also kinda digging these but doubt the boys would approve.

Everyday Percale Bedding also by Garnet Hill

Hmm I see a day of online window shopping coming right up.

Sew Fun.

2011-04-18T17:41:00.000+10:00

Bit of sewing goodness from last week.

Mummy and Kayla love to have matching prams.

I get the feeling more sewing may be happening tonight.

Stay tuned.

24 things to do.

2011-04-18T13:32:00.000+10:00

Take a family holiday (that doesn't involve visiting family)

Go on a hike.

Lose 10kgs.

Get a manicure.

Perfect our daily routines.

Keep a food and exercise diary.

Go to Yungaburra markets.

Take a camping trip.

Go to the shooting range.

Fix up my car.

Buy a kind size bed.

Plan another fundraising tea party.

Blog more consistently.

Go a month without facebook.

Complete Couch to 5km's.

~~At least once explore some local touristy rainforest near by.~~

Learn to play poker.

Find and purchase the perfect dining table.

Read a book a fortnight.

Try a food I don't think I like.

Go to the theatre regularly.

Have saving aside for nothing.

Don't kill my children.

Be happy.

Time for celebration.

I've completed my first item from 'the list'

Friday was a pupil free day for Noah but the younger two still had daycare so we decided to take advantage and go on a great Noah and Mummy adventure.

I had my camera on the wrong setting. Well done me.

We had such a perfect morning though.

Finally.

2011-04-13T17:45:00.000+10:00

Finally after keeping an eye out for nearly 18months I stumbled upon the perfect mobile for Miss Kaylas bedroom.

It matches seamlessly and she adores it. Bonus.

Mobile by Tiger Tribe

I think she now needs the matching bag.

Fruit loop.

2011-04-11T08:17:00.001+10:00

A friend sent me the link to this super cute print.

Print by Candidate

It makes me smile every time I catch a glance at it out of the corner of my eye, even as I type this.

Yet somehow I can't help but think that maybe it's just not that easy.

I'm sure it was sent in a simple 'isn't this cute' kinda way, but to me?

To me, somehow this cute little print stirs up all kinda rubbish.

Stupid right?

I don't even know what it is that makes me just a little upset.

Maybe it's that I wanna be a different coloured fruit loop.

I know that I'm definitely no cheerio (especially seeing as Cheerio has me instantly thinking of the cheerleaders in Glee....yes Liz, Glee.)

But right now, I'm also not the 'save the world' red fruit loop.

More like a soggy yellow one floating near the bottom of the bowl trying to survive.

Cause that's how I feel these days.

Soggy, tired and worn out.

Like nothing is good enough.

And fighting desperately not to sink all the way to the bottom.

Saving.

2011-04-10T20:34:00.000+10:00

I think I need to save some dollars and spoil myself with some lovely from Secrets Shhh...

Nothing wrong with dreaming about sparkle.

Book Club?

2011-04-10T07:29:00.000+10:00

Book number 2/26

I can totally do this.

My Place and Yours.

2011-04-05T11:57:00.001+10:00

Green.

Super messy but super green bookshelf in my study.

Bought it cheap at The Warehouse and couldn't decide whether to do it a sensible white or something fun and bright. Obviously I choose bright.

I loved it and it really brightened up a dull corner but I think it may be repainted soon.

Play My Place and Yours.

Book Club?

2011-04-04T10:50:00.001+10:00

I didn't know what to call this post. But if I stick to my 'read a book a fortnight' plan then this will be a semi regular post.

Originally I was going to do a book a week. But thought the kids would most likely interrupt that plan. So fortnight it is. Which really just means: get through 26 books before my next birthday.

I doubt I'll be doing full reviews of each book. I'm not really the book review type. But I will be keeping track of how I go.

Book #1

The Pile of Stuff at the Bottom of the Stairs.

Cute book. Don't read if you don't have young kids.
If you do have young kids guarantee you'll find something funny.
Though I found sections odd to read, as though perhaps it needed more editing??

What book are you reading at the moment?

xx

24 things to do.

2011-04-04T08:47:00.001+10:00

Birthday = new list.

Some of the things are yet to be completed items from last years list.

Most of them are new.

Hopefully I can complete them all this year.

Just a wee bit excited.

Take a family holiday (that doesn't involve visiting family)

Go on a hike.

Lose 10kgs.

Get a manicure.

Perfect our daily routines.

Keep a food and exercise diary.

Go to Yungaburra markets.

Take a camping trip.

Go to the shooting range.

Fix up my car.

Buy a kind size bed.

Plan another fundraising tea party.

Blog more consistently.

Go a month without facebook.

Complete Couch to 5km's.

At least once explore some local touristy rainforest near by.

Learn to play poker.

Find and purchase the perfect dining table.

Read a book a fortnight.

Try a food I don't think I like.

Go to the theatre regularly.

Have saving aside for nothing.

Don't kill my children.

Be happy.

Melbourne Fun.

2011-04-03T19:23:00.000+10:00

I arrived home from my super awesome birthday weekend last Monday but things have been super crazy with the little people since then.

When I say super crazy really I mean they have been driving me super crazy.

But at least I'll always have the memories of five days of child free fun.

Seems we managed to fit a tonne of different experiences into the weekend.

Overnight stay on Great Ocean Road.

Beautiful country drive.

Jazz Lounge Bar.

Markets.

Theatre. (Hairspray.... AWESOME)

St Kilda.

Tram rides.

Sight seeing.

Shopping, shopping, shopping.

Hmmm I think the next trip should be tropical island style.

Time to start dreaming.

loving.

2011-03-22T20:13:00.000+10:00

print from Breeding Fancy

My Place and Yours.

2011-03-22T18:33:00.000+10:00

This weeks My Place and Yours is: Where do you blog?

I used to use a crappy old laptop that could never be unplugged so all blogging was done from my desk in the little office/study nook.

It needs a serious clean up, but I've been sick so all energy used has been going towards getting organised for my upcoming weekend trip so you'll just need to deal with looking at the mess.

Now that I have a beautiful new laptop I can blog from where ever I want.

Most often either my desk or the couch.

Mr Rudey just got out of the bath and wanted to be in the picture, but then changed his mind, nice shot huh?

So there. Now you know. You also now know exactly how messy my house is today.

Pain Pain Go Away.

2011-03-21T19:41:00.000+10:00

Have you ever had the never ending headache?

The one that hurts so much more then any other headache you ever remember having and lingers so much longer then welcome?

This headache has been with me for two full days now.

Doesn't sound like long.

Until you factor in that it's one of those "I can not even bare to move my head, I want to hide under the blankets in the dark" type pains.

And that the children seem to have hit their 'quiet threshold.'

I'm putting my order in for some supernatural healing please God.

Overnight delivery would be great, I have a holiday to pack for.

Thanks.

Oh what fun.

2011-03-21T19:26:00.000+10:00

Web cams are fun for playing with the little people when they are cranky.

My kids are Skype addicts.

(Check out the eyes. Perhaps I was just a little shattered??)

I play Point and Shoot.

Do you?

One.

2011-03-16T21:36:00.001+10:00

Exactly one week till my trip away.

Let the daily countdown begin.

WooHoo.

Can you tell I'm excited.

23 Things to do.

2011-03-16T21:19:00.001+10:00

I'm in the process of writing my list of '24 things to do before I turn 25' for the next year.

So of course it's the perfect time to go back over last years list.

~~Plant a pot plant~~.
~~Get a tattoo.~~
Go on a hike.
Take a family holiday.
Become more involved in church.
Clear out some clutter.
Buy a strangers groceries.
Finish part 1 of my Interior Design course.
Lose 10kgs.
Get a manicure.
Perfect our daily routines.
~~Create new art for our home~~.
Keep a food and exercise diary.
Go to Yungaburra markets.
Get into the breakfast habit.
Finally fix up our TV cabinet.
Resize my wedding ring.
~~Send someone a homemade gift for no reason but I love them~~.
Exercise daily (yeh right).
Take a camping trip.
Fix up my car.
Buy a bread maker.
.~~Take the kids to the cinema.~~

So I guess I lost momentum at some point in time so a few of these will be transferred to this years list.

Imagination.

2011-03-16T10:55:00.001+10:00

As I'm sure most of you know, the opening scene of Toy Story 3 features the fabulous 'Evil Doctor Porkchop' as some kind of flying spaceship like craft.

So I, being the awesome mother that I am, had a stroke of inspiration and suggested that next time they play with their 'Buzz' and 'Woody' dolls they could perhaps use Kayla's piggy bank to be 'Evil Doctor Porkchop'.

Obviously I wasn't thinking clearly because I was very quickly informed that Kayla's toy couldn't be Evil Doctor Pork chop because "He has no blips."

That's Noah speak for wings, in case you missed that.

So I tried to explain that Andy uses his imagination to give the pig wings.

This just confused him.

"Can we go to the shops to get some imagination?"

"No, your imagination is in here" {taps forehead}

At which point I got leveled the best 'mum has finally lost the plot' stare.

"Mum. {sigh} That is not my imagination. That. Is. My. Head {eye roll}"

Awesome Noah.

I can not wait to tease you one day when you are all grown-ed up.

Kitchen Fun.

2011-03-15T20:54:00.001+10:00

Yesterday I did the "I'm going to pull everything out of my kitchen cupboards and rearrange" moment.

It's something I'm sure everybody has encountered at some point in time.

I even took pictures to show you lovely folks exactly how messy the pantry was.

And now:

And my new (whatever you call the plate cupboard):

In an effort to encourage independence plastic are now within reach.

Noah is loving getting his own cups for water.

I even organised the freezer:

I feel like I'm on a roll. Wonder what will get fixed up next?

My Place and Yours.

2011-03-15T11:39:00.002+10:00

I've decided to join in with Hello Owl for My Place and Yours.

This weeks theme is 'W'.

I couldn't really think of anything except for the lovely White furniture in Kayla's room.

I loved her cot for months before we bought and was so excited to set it up.

Her draws were an ugly op shop find sanded back and painted to transform into perfection (if I do say so myself)

Hungry Much?

2011-03-12T09:10:00.000+10:00

This morning I somehow ended up at the most seriously scrumptious blog Diamonds for Dessert.

I'm pretty sure I followed a link from a post on another blog (as one does) but for the life of me can't remember which one (at this current moment I have 19 tabs open - none of which have the link.)

If you havne't eaten today, prepare to get hungry.

I'm so excited.

2011-03-09T20:51:00.001+10:00

In exactly two short weeks I'll be sitting at the airport waiting for a flight for an all girls birthday weekend in Melbourne.

And let me tell you now, it's going to be fabulous!!

Don't you love...

2011-03-09T20:15:00.000+10:00

Dont you just love tucking into bed early.

It's 7:55 and I'm all ready to jump into bed.

Showered, pj's, teeth. The works.

Only there will be no jumping.

A slow crawl perhaps.

Today was one of those days that while nothing totally offensive happened, all the children were pretty well behaved, house is tidy ect I am so shattered. The cranky, completely over it kind of shattered.

I'm in the process of trying to adjust to a new 'routine' which basically involes hurling my ass into bed by 9:00 whenever I can rather then staying up until midnight like I generally do.

Midnight + broken by babies sleep = one super bitchy mumma.

Bright Sunshiny Day.

2011-03-08T08:21:00.001+10:00

Have you seen the new Kate Spade ad campain featuring Bryce Dallas Howard?

It's not often that I see an ad the really gets my attention, but I seriously love these.

They are so different from all the black and white over sexed crap we normally get fed.

These make me want to slip on some bright shoes and go skipping down the street.

Have you read...

2011-03-06T20:14:00.001+10:00

I read 'Water for Elephants' a few months ago and completely fell in love.

Since I've had a bit of a circus obsession happening.

With the film coming out soon it's only getting worse.

Doesn't hurt that it's starring my not so secret mumma crush Robert Pattinson.

If you haven't read it I would suggest you rush out tomorrow morning and pick up a copy.

You won't regret it, I promise.

Wonders will never cease.

2011-03-06T19:38:00.000+10:00

It's 7:37 and all my children are asleep.

This never happens.

Tea and blog time.

Then early to bed yes?

Bitten...

2011-02-26T20:49:00.000+10:00

Every so often, more often then is necessary I get bitten by the bug.

I'm sure you know the one.

The I'm so unsatisfied with my house bug.

I just want to rearrange and fix things.

It's incredibly frustrating.

Right now my obsession is art for the blank wall in my lounge.

I want something big and cheap.

Google here I come.

Sew Fun.

2011-02-12T14:17:00.001+10:00

This past week I decided to man up and clean out the bomb site that was my walk in robe.

So embarrassing to put these up, but you have to understand how disgusting it was.

It was worth it though as once it was clean I realised I now had the perfect -non stuck in the garage- hidey hole for my sewing things.

After going through all the things I don't wear I decided to re-purpose some of my old things into new pretty things for Miss Kayla (who has been a major grumpy all week).

I bought this dress just after Noah was born and then wore it all through the next two pregnancies plus in-between. So basically it's been a stable of mine for over 4 years. Pretty good for a $10 dress.

So before:

After:

I couldn't get her to stand up.

Made from Make it and Love it tutorial.

Then I was in the sewing zone so I ended up making another dress from a maternity tshirt. (I get a bit of a kick out of the fact that Kayla now has two dresses made from clothes I wore will pregnant with her.)

Cute huh? I sew, Do You? tutorial

But wait there's more.

Before:

After:

This one's my favourite I think.

Made using Everything your Mama Made tutorial.

And one more:

Pretty Girl dress using Create and Delegate tutorial.

Sorry the photo's arn't exactly flash. But she's so cute anyway.

Hope you're having a wonderful weekend

Cyclone.

2011-02-02T12:42:00.002+10:00

There is a giant cyclone heading towards us due to hit the coast tonight.

Maybe just a little bit scary.

House all ready.

Everything we can do to prepare has been done.

Now we wait.

Fun time.

Pointing and Shooting.

2011-01-31T08:46:00.002+10:00

Oh boy what a weekend.

Seriously wished I could look myself in the bathroom quite a few times.

Point and shoot can have some different meaning I think.

Lucky they redeemed themselves with cuteness right before bed.

Would this be classed as housekeeping?

2011-01-30T14:47:00.001+10:00

So sometime in late 2010 I made some choices to change some things.

Major one being I asked my husband to move out.

I had many reasons.

I am happy.

We still talk and manage to get along ok if we try.

The kids are coping fine.

I felt the need to post this so that if in the future I write something that mentions this it's clear what I'm actually talking about.

So yep, now to go do the actual housekeeping that takes actual energy.

xx Amie

image via weheartit.com

Leighton Style

2011-01-29T19:34:00.001+10:00

I'm back.

Been missing awhile, I know.

Blah Blah.

I've missed you, did you miss me?

Lets try this blogging thing again shall we.

I have a serious style crush on Leighton Meester from Gossip Girl.

Not so much when she's in character.

OK who am I kidding.

I love her as Blair as well.

Anyway... I'm easing gentling back into things.

How gorgeous is Leighton.

I'm having serious wardrobe dramas at the moment. I am definitely in need of some of these outfits. Feels free to send some my way.

A Realisation.

2010-12-04T18:25:00.000+10:00

This week has certainly been an interesting one.

It's been one of those self discovery periods.

Where without any actual effort of your own some critical truths slot into place.

Truths that change the way you view yourself and life.

It is a pity other people can't work things out at the same time as you do though.

If they did then maybe progress could be made.

But at least I can say that this week I have realised how much false blame and pressure has been put on me.

It's a magical realisation.

I have a feeling that in the coming weeks a whole bunch of bondage is going to be lifted from my life.

I can see things with a much different light shining on them.

Whats that lame song?

"I can see clearly now the rain has gone, I can see all obstacles in my way"

So yes, I'm perhaps just a little excited to see where life takes me now.

xx Amie

image via weheartit.com

Don't you love...

2010-12-01T16:58:00.000+10:00

Don't you just love the internet. Our internet was down for a few days, and while I didn't miss it as much as I thought I would I am rather pleased to have it back.

xx Amie

image via weheartit.com

Don't you love...

2010-11-24T16:39:00.000+10:00

Don't you just love finding that new song to completely obsess over?

You’re gonna cry yourself to sleep
Your’re gonna soak the pillow
for many weeks
You’re gonna cry
Why?
Why me?
But in spite of the ache
that doesn’t go away
You’ll be sharing your story
one rainy day
And at the next table somebody catches your words
He hear’s a truth that he’s never heard
He takes it back to the marriage he’d given up on
Hands it down to his daughter
who writes it into song
You didn’t know
A thousand things are happening in this one thing
Like a thousand fields nourished by a single drop of rain
So honey, wrap yourself in promise
while you wait the morning light
A thousand things are happening tonight
You’re gonna cry yourself to sleep
‘cause for the moment all that you can see
Is what you’ve lost , lost
Why me?
But in the midst of the most exquisite pain
you’re drawn into a peace that You cannot explain
and the praises you sing of a sovereign God
reach the girl whose last hope is gone
she never thought there was purpose in anything here
now the seed has been planted and it’s taking root there
You didn’t know
Chorus
A thousand things are happening tonight
You’re gonna cry yourself to sleep
A thousand miracles you’ll have to wait and see

Imagine.

2010-11-17T07:44:00.000+10:00

Imagine how fun it would be to have pink hair for just a little while.

images via weheartit.com

Don't you love it...

2010-11-17T07:20:00.000+10:00

Don't you love it when things just work out perfectly.

xx Amie

image via weheartit.com

Strong.

2010-11-16T19:29:00.000+10:00

I'm not sure what happened. Where we went wrong. But somewhere along the line the kidlets went nuts.

They were so lovely while we were away. They hardly fought. They were relatively quiet. They went to bed easily. They never ran away whilst at the shops/zoo/museum.

Now we are home it appears they are fighting worse then ever. Constantly attacking each other and having crying fits.

Maybe it's fatigue after the holiday.

Maybe it's the freedom of being back home.

Maybe it's because for the first time in two weeks there is only Mum to deal with, no Dad watching in the background or Nina promising sweets.

I'm fighting desperately within myself to not play the blame game.

I have come so far. I will not go back to being that girl.

I am not to blame.

Mike will not come home to a wild house and me crying in the bedroom.

I refuse to give in.
I will stay strong.

xx Amie

image via weheartit.com

Excitment.

2010-11-11T13:04:00.000+10:00

When you live away from the cities you miss out on a very basic thing.

IKEA.

So while I am in Sydney visiting my mummy we have planned a rather exciting thing.

Today is Ikea day.

I am giddy with excitement.

images via weheartit.com

Tattooed.

2010-11-09T22:07:00.000+10:00

I think the time has come to finally join Fat Mum Slim in point and shoot.

And it just so happens that I have something exciting to share from this weekend.

This weekend tattoo number two happened.

Christmas.

2010-11-09T21:47:00.000+10:00

This year I am seriously eager for Christmas.

I've got decorations and gifts all planned out.

It's just waiting for an appropriate time to start decking the halls.

all images via weheartit

Tshirt Make Over.

2010-10-25T07:18:00.000+10:00

Hey Miss Liz, Remember that grey tshirt I convinced you to chuck out and then stole all those years ago?

Take a look now.

I couldn't find a before picture.

But here's an after.

Stupid flash makes it kinda hard to see. But you get the point.

Have a good day at work. xx

Made over using this tutorial from Tea Rose Home.

I need a keyring.

2010-10-18T11:53:00.000+10:00

My keyring that ~~I didn't even really like~~ broke over the weekend. So now, for the first time in my life, I am actually on the hunt for a keyring/chain.

Something pointless to pretty up my life basically.

I set myself a $10 limit and hit Etsy.

Floral pocket mirror or keychain.

This one is my favorite but is over budget of course.

BEbeautyFULL

Leather Owl.

All from SIMPLY CHARMING

Make a wish

A Charmed Obsession

I'm leaning towards one of the Simply Charming ones.

What do you think?

When the Saints.

2010-10-16T20:15:00.000+10:00

Have you heard this song? I've been loving it every time it comes on the radio for ages now, but could never catch who sung it.

I finally found out a few days ago.

I can't find it on itunes, so I've had the youtube window open ready to play at a moments notice.

Lord I have a heavy burden of all I've seen and know
It's more than I can handle
But your word is burning like a fire shut up in my bones
and I cannot let it go

And when I'm weary and overwrought
with so many battles left unfought

I think of Paul and Silas in the prison yard
I hear their song of freedom rising to the stars
And when the Saints go marching in
I want to be one of them

Lord it's all that I can't carry and cannot leave behind
it often overwhelms me
but when I think of all who've gone before and lived the faithful life
their courage compells me
And when I'm weary and overwrought
with so many battles left unfought

I think of Paul and Silas in the prison yard
I hear their song of freedom rising to the stars

I see the shepherd Moses in the Pharohs court
I hear his call for freedom for the people of the Lord

And when the Saints go marching in
I want to be one of them
And when the Saints go marching in
I want to be one of them

I see the long quiet walk along the Underground Railroad
I see the slave awakening to the value of her soul

I see the young missionary and the angry spear
I see his family returning with no trace of fear

I see the long hard shadows of Calcutta nights
I see the sister standing by the dying man's side

I see the young girl huddled on the brothel floor
I see the man with a passion come and kicking down the door

I see the man of sorrows and his long troubled road
I see the world on his shoulders and my easy load

And when the Saints go marching in
I want to be one of them
and when the Saints go marching in
I want to be one of them

A crazy mind.

2010-10-15T09:57:00.000+10:00

There is so much going on in my head today. I'm sure that no one but me will be able to follow the mess that is about to follow.

You've been warned.

Yesterday I spent so much time doing little craft like projects. Taking some pictures is on my list for today.

Kayla's birthday is fast approaching.

I've known this for a few weeks but all of a sudden it hit me this morning.

It's been a year.

Seriously????????????

How did that happen?

My baby.

I'm overwhelmed by a fear the I'm going to forget all the little things that have made this past year so special.

I know that it's ridiculous. I can remember lots of amazingly cute wonderful things about the boys when they were babies. But I'm sure I've forgotten a lot as well.

My fringe had grown so much it was constantly sitting in my eyes. I cut it and after washing it last night, realized this morning discovered that it's crooked.

So now I've created a mini drama.

Do I cut it again and straighten it out... or sweep it to the side and grow it, move on from the fringe?

Oh the decisions.

There's a chair in there.

2010-10-13T18:27:00.000+10:00

A whole heap of rubbish and a trip to the lifeline bin.

The garage clean out is going well.
Granted I've added even more to both my craft to do list and my shopping list (seriously can you ever have enough storage?)

But the most exciting part of the day?

I started to makeover my sewing chair.

I have photo's on my phone, but no way to upload them.

Perhaps I USB cord for my phone should be added to the never ending list.

So anyway. Hopefully tommorrow will see the completion of project #1.

Fingers crossed.

image via weheartit.com

OH Yes

2010-10-13T11:19:00.000+10:00

I think about coming back and posting something all the time.

At least once a day.

It never happens. Either time, kids, mess gets in the way. Or I don't have anything life changing to say.

How pathetic really.

It's not like I was constantly posting life changing, inspirational message before.

Last night I spent hours going looking at some wonderful craft blogs.

Today I'm feeling rather inspired. I just want to make everything.

So I've decided to set myself a challenge of only homemade gifts this christmas (with the exception of the children, I'm not sure I can work out how to make the walking, talking, crazy transformer type Noah has his heart set on).

Step one is to clean up/reorganize my craft area, which basically consists of a table and messy plastic tub in the garage.

Today I'm going to clean out some of the crap from the garage to try and make some more room. And perhaps investigate my paint stash and see if I can find something to use to pretty up the desk.

The excitement is making me giddy.

Happy Birthday.

2010-09-17T06:48:00.001+10:00

Happy 25th Birthday Liz.

You're half way to 50.

Love you girl.

Pink Power.

2010-09-16T05:59:00.000+10:00

I have an obsession with painted nails at the moment.

Might have something to do with the fact that I've finally stopped biting them.

But seriously, is there anything better then pink nail polish?

I think I need a drink.

2010-09-15T22:33:00.000+10:00

Today was one of those days were everything that can go wrong will go wrong.

Baby screaming so much the two year old was walking around with his hands over his ears.
Psycho children acting like they are strung out on sugar whilst mumma paces around in circles with said screaming baby.
House a complete disgusting mess that's going to take all day tomorrow to fix. (See points 1 & 2)
The psycho children paying no attention to anything being said at them resulting in one very frazzled mumma throwing toys in the rubbish (to be fair the sentence "if you don't pick it up it's going in the bin" did leave my mouth so they were warned).... Perhaps this one actually taught them something. Maybe they learnt not to mess with mumma.
The man late home from work. (Only a problem due to points 1 &2)
Forgot my eftpos card when I did the grocery shopping and had to come home to retreive it.
When I arrived home to collect card the man was asleep and the children had gotten out of bed and someone had taken off their nappy resulting in poop on the couch.
Drove a few suburbs with the intent of using my spare key to let myself into Liz's house and drop something off....Forgot the key and had no choice but to leave her $600(?) camera hidden outside the front door. I'm still waiting to hear if it was still there when she got home or if one of her junkie neighbors discovered it.
Made a giant ass of myself on the phone to Liz's work whilst calling to inform her of my dodge camera delivering skills.
Then played a game of phone tagged whilst trying to organise the last of Miss Liz's birthday present....Although this one worked out well in the end...I think?!?

Yesterday whilst visiting a pregnant friend I started to feel the stirrings of cluckeness deep inside.OH NO. Today definately got rid of that.

Now I've got that off my chest and had a nice cup of tea, I think I shall take a long hot shower and go to bed. Tomorrow has no choice but to be better. I have millions of things to do plus a stack of housework to catch up on.

image via weheartit.com

Eyes of a child.

2010-09-14T06:47:00.000+10:00

How I wish I had the eyes of a child.

That I could see magic in the most simple of things.

This morning the boys have spent over an hour playing with coat hanger 'rocket ships.'

This is what joy is.

What would you tell yourself?

2010-09-09T07:56:00.000+10:00

Once again I've been MIA for a quite awhile. Back I just saw this little video and had to share with you.

So much wonderful advice on here.

Anything you can particularly relate to?

What do you wish you could tell yourself back before you had your first bubba?

The thing that really gets my attention is the line "forgive yourself". Something I am working on at the moment.

I don't think you can grasp the concept of mother guilt until you are a mother.

Yet it's something that most of us struggle with and yet it is so so pointless.

We need to remind ourselves daily that WE are the PERFECT mother for our child. NO ONE will ever love or care for your baby as much as you, which in essence makes you absolutely right for them. Our babies love us. Time for us to start loving us as well.

OH Thank God.

2010-08-26T12:00:00.000+10:00

You know those days were every single thing goes wrong?

Thats today.

Even as I'm writing this tantrum number 5000 is happening in the background.

Yep, thats right. My toddler is chucking a spaz and I'm taking a minute for myself updating my neglected blog with a winge about my disaster day.

And the mother of the year award goes to.................

The day has been a disaster.

A friend posted on facebook: "Does anybody remember back when you were very young, did you ever think that you would be this blessed!"

I replied with: "Blessed is not the word that comes to mind in this household."

I spoke to soon.

Not half hour later a got a text from the very best friend saving my ass in the best possible way. She's made the next few days tolerable.

So yeh, my day has sucked.

But I guess we are still so very blessed.

Shop til You Drop.

2010-08-19T16:13:00.000+10:00

I'm so proud of my little people today.

I don't often brave the shops with all three of them but today we did it (all in the name of helping a friend of course.)

Today they were dragged all over town looking for the perfect birthday gift for a friends new boyfriend.

They hardly complained.

I was so impressed.

We were all so tired by the end of it even I was starting to lose my calm. But still they were angels. So well trained.

Some days they make it so easy to love them.

image via weheartit

23 Things to Do.

2010-08-18T17:11:00.000+10:00

Another something crossed off my list.

18. Send someone a homemade gift for no reason but I love them

Sent my sister Phoebe a parcel yesterday filled with homemade love.

I think I'm doing pretty good at this whole list thing.

image via weheartit

Emancipate yourself.

2010-08-12T11:59:00.000+10:00

While I have no desire to have this tattoo I do rather like the quote.

Exactly what I'm in the process of doing right now.

I can't recall were I found this picture.

It was saved on my computer ages ago.

If you know who it belongs to let me know and I'll give credit where credits due.

The life cont.

2010-08-12T10:42:00.000+10:00

So I'm not sitting around feeling sorry for myself anymore.

Am trying to put the pieces together to fix myself and my family/home up.

It's kinda like a puzzle. I'm trying to get all the things I know in my head, to fit perfectly into my heart. Slowly it's coming together.

I'm pulling my socks up.

Moving forward.

Taking babysteps.

Focusing on the small things I can do each day rather then the ones I can't.

And I have to say, it feels darn good.

as always photo's via weheartit

Birthdays.

2010-08-04T08:10:00.000+10:00

I can't believe it's been four years.

I can remember so many stupid details from that day.

Folding and refolding bunny rugs cuz they just wouldn't sit right.

Ignoring the tightening in my tummy, thinking it was yet another false alarm.

I remember Mike telling his mum he thinks I'm in labour and me denying it outright.

The concern on his face as the pain got worse.

I remember having a giggle fit inbetween contractions while Mike ran around like a headless chicken trying to find my toothbrush.

My Dad calling for a chat and me trying to pretend it wasn't happening cuz I didn't want to talk baby stuff with him.

Dad: So what are you doing tonight.

Me: Umm, (breath through the pain Amie) , think we are heading to the hospital soon.

Dad: Oh, is everything ok?

Me: (gripping kitchen counter) Yeh

Dad: Are you going to have a baby tonight?

Me: I think so. Gotta go. Bye.

After that things get a bit fuzzy.

The memories are like flashes, moments saved in my mind.

Mike: Breath honey

Me: I AM OK. SHUT UP!

I remember being afraid of having my waters broken because someone had told me the pain got worse after that.

They broke on their own about 10minutes later.

It was sweet relief for a whole microsecond.

Noah was born half hour after my waters broke. (It's worth noting here that with the next two babies I insisted they break them for me)

He was perfect.

Love and life and pureity all wrapped up in a tiny cuddle bundle.

I was in love.

He is perfect.

I can't believe it's been four years.

Your a big brother now, but you'll always be my baby.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOAH!

Happy.

2010-07-28T20:00:00.000+10:00

image via weheartit

The life.

2010-07-28T15:14:00.000+10:00

The dream.

The reality.

I'm having one of those weeks/months when being a stay home mum seems like a mistake.

Actually at this point in time it's more like me being a mum just isn't working.

I was sick last week and the house got out of routine.

I desperately want to get it back in order.

Ok, so who am I kidding. The routine wasn't really happening anyway.

It's always in the plan.

It just doesn't happen.
I've tried all different systems and none seem to work for us.

It feels like we are living in a constant state of utter mess.

I don't know how I can catch up.

And it doesn't feel like normal "I have kids" mess either.

It is like wouldn't pass a health inspection mess.

I am a mess.

I honestly feel like an unfit mother right about now.

Like if community services was to pay me a visit they would take the kids away.

Ok. So perhaps I'm exaggerating slightly.

But that's not the point.

The point is I've lost my mojo.

I long to get back to the place where everyday life flows.

I don't expect it to be easy.

But I'm so over it being this hard.

I just want to live.

I want to enjoy my kids.

I want them to remember me as someone who was willing to have fun.

Right now, in this moment, that's not me.

Right now I am so completely over whelmed I can't see the sunshine.

I remember there was an old Switchfoot song with the line

The shadows prove the sunshine.

Trying to remember that right about now.

Sorry for the cranky post.

Hopefully I'll be feeling better soon.

as always images via weheartit

I never knew.

2010-07-26T14:57:00.000+10:00

I am so shocked and excited this afternoon.

Today I realised the Anthropologie ships to Australia.

I still can't afford anything.

But the dream is one step closer.

If I had the funds I would be redoing my bedroom with pieces from this collection.

In fact I believe those pillows would go nicely with my current bedspread.

oh the excitment.

Pity about the funding problem.

And this one would be perfect on my lounge.

Oh dear Lord I think I've died and gone to heaven.

I have to stop looking and go back to my house work.

Happy Monday.

Far Far.

2010-07-22T09:23:00.001+10:00

Far far, there's this little girl
she was praying for something good to happen to her
from time to time there are colors and shapes
dazzle in her eyes, tickle in her hands
they invent her a new world with
oil skies and aquarel rivers
but don't you run away already
please don't go oh oh

Take a deep breath and dive
Find More lyrics at www.sweetslyrics.com
there's a beautiful mess inside
how can you stay outside?
There's a beautiful mess
beautiful mess inside

Oh beautiful, beautiful

Far far there's this little girl
she was praying for something big to happen to her
every night she hears beautiful strange music
it's everywhere there's nowhere to hide
but if it fades she begs
"oh lord don't take it from me, don't take it"

Just look at yourself now
deep inside
deeper than you ever dared
there's a beautiful mess inside
beautiful mess inside

My favorite song today.

Far Far by Yael Naïm

as always image from weheartit

Sick sick sick.

2010-07-19T11:15:00.000+10:00

I had wanted my 100th post to be so amazingly inspirational that maybe you would cry happy tears.

It's not.

I am so sick I think I may die.

I slept for nearly a solid 24hours only waking for more painkillers and fluids.

My husband is officially in the good books for taking the kids off my hands.

The plan was that I would wake up this morning feeling so much better after having slept it off.

It's didn't work.

I still feel like my head will explode at any moment.

My throat is still on fire.

My whole body still aches.

I am so ready to go back to bed.

Party.

2010-07-17T08:14:00.000+10:00

This morning I woke up and was practically jumping from my seat with excitment.

I offically have 20 followers.

I'm all grown up now.

Not sure I have anything interesting enough to warrant any followers but that is completely besides the point cuz today I am happy.

I'm about 2 posts away from my 100th post as well.

Perhaps I should do a little mini giveaway to celebrate.

image via weheartit

Treasure.

2010-07-15T09:14:00.000+10:00

I found a treasure yesterday.

I was giddy with excitment when it was delivered.

Gotta love some op shop goodness.

I also found some side tables which I'm planning on making into a play kitchen for Noah's birthday.

I'll post some progress pictures as we go along.

The little things.

2010-07-13T15:39:00.000+10:00

Sometimes it's the little things that make your day wonderful.

Today I bought myself new jeans.

A size smaller then my current ones and only half a size bigger then my preKayla jeans.

Thats party worthy me thinks.

(thats not my tush weheartit)

Best Friends.

2010-07-10T13:47:00.000+10:00

When I was a kid 'Barbie and the Rockers' was like my absolute favorite movie.

So when getting all excited about the fact that my best friend is coming home after an entire long week (yes a week and I was going crazy) I started subconsciously singing this fabulously 80's sounding song.

Teacups treasure.

2010-07-07T19:08:00.000+10:00

Seriously how beautiful are vintage tea cups.

I'll admit. Alot of the 'planning' time for the epic tea party has been spent looking at pictures for inspiration. Totally counts right?

I'm still here.

2010-07-07T18:39:00.000+10:00

I've been missing in action for the past week.

Not to sure whats happening that's detracting from my blogging time.

Busy with ~~real~~ life I guess.

Sick babies.

Messy toddlers.

Mothers groups.

Planning one epic tea party.

I miss my little home in the corner of the internet.

I'll have to make sure I find time this week.

image via weheartit

A Pirates Life.

2010-06-28T07:52:00.000+10:00

Noah has been asking for a pirate party since Eli's birthday in February.

Cute, huh?

This is the first year that he has asked for a certain theme for his birthday so I plan on fully indulging his dream.

I may even go so far as to dress myself up...if I'm brave that is.

I've been searching the net for a little bit of inspiration, unfortunately I get the feeling that the things I think are gorgeous are not exactly what he was imagining.

Like this pirate ship picture. Approiate for a four year olds party you think?

Somehow I don't think Noah would think this is fun.

Maybe I should have a pirate party of my own?

image via weheartit

Miracle.

2010-06-24T22:33:00.001+10:00

Do you ever have those moments when you realise how incredible life can actually be?

I'm having one of those nights tonight.

I'm seeing the little miracles that happen everyday.

I'm seeing how fragile life is, and how lucky we are to have the things that we do.

I have three amazingly beautiful children who drive me completely up the wall.

Seriously.

They do.

It's not at all uncommon to hear me wonder out loud why I actually bother.

I know why.

Because they are my everything.

I live in this place thats famous for it's beaches.

The sunshine.

The wildlife.

Yeh? Whatever.

Have you ever seen the beauty or smelt the smoke of sugar cane being burnt off?

Truely it's magic.

I just spent the night laughing with my girlfriends enjoying a stupid movie.

This is a true miracle for me.

I never believed I'd have true friends, but somehow over the last five years of living in this paradise I've managed to surround myself with beautiful people.

How lucky I am to realise.

A very special one of those friends is quickly heading in the direction of having a dream come true.

I am so excited for her that I can barely contain myself.

I'm fairly certain that soon I'm going to be doing a happy dance for her in my living room.

(And Miss, you better believe it will be some hell of a happy dance cause I am so believing for you in this. x)

I dunno. Guess I'm feeling kinda gushy tonight.

Happiness is good though.

Sure beats the other options.

(pictures via weheartit)

Oh, and stars kinda rock as well.

A New Look.

2010-06-22T19:15:00.002+10:00

I love my new look blog.

It's so pretty.

A nice change from the pink me thinks.

New Home.

2010-06-21T13:02:00.000+10:00

Some more pictures of our new home for my mummy.

Kaylas bedroom.

My camera isn't turning on to get the rest.

But seriously how cute is she? So much cuter then her room.

23 things to do.

2010-06-21T12:39:00.000+10:00

Just taking a look at my 'to-do' list. Coming along quite nicely I think.

~~Plant a pot plant.~~

I planted a Jade plant a few weeks ago. It's somehow still alive. Although if the boys would quit attacking it with cricket bats perhaps it would even grow.

G~~et a tattoo.~~

Go on a hike.
Take a family holiday.
~~Become more involved in church.~~

We have recently moved to a new church and have stepped straight into life there.

Feels like home.

Like we've always belonged there.

Am definatly more invovled here then I ever was at our last church.

~~Clear out some clutter.~~

I cleared out so much darn clutter when we were moving it wasn't funny.

Four trips to the tip and three to the lifeline bin.

I think I can count that as crossed out, yes?

Buy a strangers groceries.
Finish part 1 of my Interior Design course.
Lose 10kgs.
Get a manicure.
Perfect our daily routines.
~~Create new art for our home.~~

When we moved I got myself set up with plenty of new artwork/prints.

I would love more.

I dream of a home overflowing with beautiful prints.

Keep a food and exercise diary.
Go to Yungaburra markets.
Get into the breakfast habit.
Finally fix up our TV cabinet.
Resize my wedding ring.
Send someone a homemade gift for no reason but I love them.
Exercise daily (yeh right).
Take a camping trip.
Fix up my car.
Buy a bread maker.
Take the kids to the cinema.

So that's five down eighteen to go. Yay. Bring it on!

Fitness Freak.

2010-06-21T09:55:00.000+10:00

So I've been kinda slack.

I had this whole idea when we moved that I would go to the gym in our complex after the kids went to bed at night. I wasn't exactly successful.

I did start, but it didn't last nearly long enough.

So I have a new mission. I'm purposely starting off small and hoping I can just keep on adding on.

So my current mission?

Gym. Everyday. For ten days?

Think I can do it?

I'll let you know.

image from weheartit

The Vision. Part 3.

2010-06-16T21:40:00.001+10:00

I wrote the other day about my life vision.

Vision is such a intriguing word.

I was talking with friends tonight about what it means to have a vision for the future.

Not a 'how should i live my life' kinda vision.

A 'how am I going to do God's work' vision.

You know the kind.

The kind that effects other people.

The kind that makes the world a better place.

The kind that uses your unique gifts and talents.

The kind that you are passionate about.

This kind of vision I've always struggled with.

I never saw how I could effect other people,

I never saw that I could make the world a better place.

I never saw that I have unique gifts and talents.

I never felt passionate enough.

I am surrounded with friends with big obvious talents and even bigger dreams.

It's always left me feeling inadequate.

I can't tell you how many times I've cried about the fact that I have no obvious talents and that I've never been struck by lightning with a big dream or passion.

I have things I care deeply about.

And things I want to do.

But I never felt it was enough.

I wanted big.

Tonight I realised that I do have passions.

Passions and dreams that run deep within my soul.

Ones that I can't shake or change.

They just didn't get there in a slap in the face obvious moment.

They grew over time until they became apart of me.

It's exciting thinking that all this time I was busy focusing on the crap in my life.

Focusing on why I could never do anything meaningful.

Focusing on my lack of big in your face talents.

All this time my talents, hopes, passions and dreams were there.

Simmering under the surface. Just waiting for me to stop long enough to look.

Now that I've looked it's finally so clear.

I've had my lightning moment.

There's no looking back now.

xxx

all images via weheartit

The Vision. Part 2.

2010-06-06T19:32:00.003+10:00

When looking for pictures for the previous post I found several that touched a cord.

I couldn't leave them floating in cyber space without sharing them on here.

all images via weheartit

The Vision.

2010-06-06T19:22:00.002+10:00

I have a vision of my life.

How I live it.

The values I hold.

Priorities I have.

I have a vision of morals I want to instill in my children.

Things I want to ensure they believe about themselves.
The moments I want to have with them.

I have a vision of my marriage.
Of what makes us, us.
Of the "rules" we follow, and the ones we break.
Of the things that define us.

My life is not living up to the vision.
At the moment it is completely wrong.
Not in the: 'We didn't expect this but it's pretty darn good way.'
No, at the moment it is ok. Just plain old boring ok.
We are getting by.

Or we were.
Until today.
Today I snapped.
I packed up some things and ran away from home.
I broke down.
I yelled, screamed, and cried by eyes out.

I ran away from home once before.
I can't remember how old I was.
I think it was somewhere around 9.
Anyway, when I was somewhere around 9 I ran away from home.
I planned to stay away forever or until my parents realized I was gone and cried and came looking for me.
I went and hid behind the back fence so I would be able to hear when they started to panic.
I never heard. I;m not sure they even noticed I was gone.
I must have hidden out behind that fence for a whole 15 minutes before I got bored and came home.
I honestly can't even remember what happened next. Obviously I didn't make for a very dramatic runaway when I was 9.

So today was my second runaway experience.
I spent the whole day learning some new things about myself and longing to be home with the one person who always, no matter what, manages to make me feel better.
Our marriage may not fit with the vision. It my not meet my standards. It may not be great. But it's defiantly got potential.
So sometime after dinner when the kids started to get restless I packed up my ego and headed home.

At this point in time nothing has technically changed.

My life is still the same.

My kids are still overwhelming.

My marriage needs still needs some work.

But something on the inside has changed.

I've let it out. That means things can start to change.

We've started. And thats what counts right?

That you start.
Cause the truth is, there is no end.

Life goes on.
Your children will still be your children even when they're 30.
And love doesn't just disappear when the marriage is harder then expected.

The vision is the goal.
I won't give up.
I refuse.

Life is hard, but it will be great.

xx

all images via weheartit

.

New Home.

2010-06-01T19:11:00.001+10:00

I feel so at home at this house.

After only a month it already feels more like our home then our last place did.

By request of my mumma, here are a few photos.

kitchen

Our super great chalkboard table.

ensuite

main bed.

Will take some more pictures tomorrow. Kids rooms, lounge and study are still missing.

I'm Back.

2010-05-30T20:03:00.000+10:00

Hurray!

I'm back.

After three long weeks without internet finally it's working.

We are all settled into our new home.

I am completely in love with it.

I'll post some pictures this week.

Sunday Citar.

2010-05-02T16:42:00.002+10:00

"If I could dream at all, it would be about you. And I'm not ashamed of it."

Edward Cullan.

Yes, I know. A Twilight quote. Lame. Totally not inspiration or deep. But sweet. And I feel like sweet today

This is part of a communal sharing of inspiration and beauty called Sunday Citar.

Yellow.

2010-05-02T12:16:00.000+10:00

There is something so delicious about the colour yellow.

Happy Thought print.

Fox On a Bike shirt.

Filigree Earrings.

Flower Headband

Spring Yellow Frame Collection

Friends.

2010-05-01T10:01:00.001+10:00

I have a very special friend who lives much to far away.

I think of her often but rarely take the time to contact her. I miss her more then she knows.

Time spent with her was always filled with fun and laughter.

She was infectious.

When Noah was born she bought a little purple book and asked our friends to write messages to Noah and I.

I found the book today while packing.

There were lot's of happy tears.

Funny how the gestures that don't take much are the ones when remember years later.