40+ and Fabulous Parents and Parents to be - Nov and onwards chat!

[quitecontrary]

Hello my dears - I do think it is time for a new thread here!
Those of you who are lurking but yet to post - join us please! I know there are a few more of you out there in the Hub of Bub that are yet to chat here.
Hope November is treating you all well!
Will be back soon once I've worked out how to link to the old thread!!

[Cathrine]

Aren't you a clever duck Mary !

Cat

[quitecontrary]

Thank you to Rarygirl for putting the link from the old thread to here!

Now for our news!
Cat - Toby is much better, and has even had his 6 months needles (two months late eek!). How are the needles, pins and cups going?
We had a lovely weekend. Went out for dinner on Friday down at the pub in Coogee again - they are so child-friendly, its great! G even summonsed up enough courage to get her face painted! Yes, a pub where kids eat free on Fridays (in the family hours ie 5 to 7) and they have free face painting - oh, and a beach side location with a knock out view! It doesn't get much better than that! Saturday afternoon saw us at a little Halloween party with the cousins (also good fun) and Sunday we were down at the local pool. Toby had his first real swim and quite enjoyed it!
I suppose I should shake myself and start getting ready to go out to Storytime and Fairy Ballet!

Hope you are all well!!

[surprisebub]

Hello Ladies, Miss Slackness is here again lol. Well i just had a look at my ticker (the only way i ever know how much longer i have to go, i put it down to pregnancy brain) and seems i have just over 3 weeks left. My time flies, mind you i am kinda over it too, wish bub would decide to come early, finding the heat up here gets a bit much and so have no energy and just tend to veg a lot. Thought Monday morning looked promising as i was having contractions from 2.30am at around 20 minutes apart that then dropped down to 3 - 5 minutes apart and lasting anything from 45 seconds to 95 seconds, but by 11am it subsided and went away :confused:. Have never had prelabour before so was interesting to say the least, have an appointment at the hospital on Thursday so might get to find out a due date then (doctor wants to induce me at 39 weeks for some reason, i am assuming it is because of my advanced age :laughing:). Have finally pulled my finger out and have everything ready for when bub comes, i even packed my bag for hospital the other day. So now i guess it is just a case of playing the waiting game.

I am a bit behind the goss in here, have spent most of my time reading all the birth stories, have 13 pages to go and then i have read everyone, in my head it is a case of finish reading them all and then go into labour :smiliedance:, think i might be kidding myself by hey it is worth a shot.

Quitecontrary - I hated having to take my kids for their needles and not looking forward to having to do it all over again, how did Toby cope with them. Your night out with the kids at Coogee pub sounded just devine, it is nice to see that some places cater for families with young kids.

Cat - Ditto to what Quitecontrary asked, how are the needles going, hope you find success real soon.

Hello to everyone else.

Sorry about the lack of personals but once again a memory like a sieve, had to look 3 times just at what Quitecontrary wrote to remember anything.

Tania

[jariah4]

Hi everyone,

Still hanging around....16 weeks now , and no more sickness atm!
Surprise bub, I know what you mean by the brain like a sieve.....the worst I've ever experienced!:rolleyes:

Ultrasound on the 26th...very exciting!!
3 weeks to go, hope all goes well for you. The p.c. was out of action, but now I'm back into it.

Would you know of a motel close to Riverway Performing Arts Complex? Dd1 has been selected to sing at the Staircase to the Stars in Townsville on Sunday 8th Nov. A big surprise for us all, and only a week to prepare!:yelclap:
However she is currently sick, so hope we get to go after all.
:thumbsdown:
Hi to all....talk soon.
Tracey.

[surprisebub]

Tracey i actually don't know any motels in townsville, actually don't know townsville that well, i live about 45 minutes south of townsville (i am rural). But had a look for where Riverway performing arts complex was and looks like it is near or in Thuringowa, can ring around and try and find one near there if you like, are you in Cairns?

Well your ultrasound is on the day my bub is due, must be a good date. Actually a date that has meaning for me, i found out on that date last year that my angel had passed away and now this baby is due on the same day, so a good date for me now :yelclap:

The pregnancy brain is getting worse for me lately, just hope i get back to normal once bubs is born :laughing:

Just let me know if you want me to make a few phone calls to motels etc

Tania

[Amara]

The blurb on the opening post encouraged me to post.:)

I'm a 43 year old single mum to a 16 month old boy. I was partnered until Feb this year. I work 3 days a week & my main social activities these days are with my family or my mums group where they are all at least a decade younger than me.

The big news in our household today was that my son did his first potty poo.... only because I realised he was about to do one and plonked him on it in the nick of time. :yelclap:

He has recently got over chickenpox & a chest infection, now has bronchitis & conjunctivitis so the last month has been challenging to say the least. I had to take Monday off work but if his eyes are still gunky tomorrow my parents will babysit.:smiliedance:

I will do my best to remember to keep popping in here.:wave:

[quitecontrary]

Welcome Amara! You are right, it is big news about the toilet training or indeed just catching the poo in time! That was my main topic of conversation about 4 weeks ago, we did the 3 Day Potty Training Program with our dd - who is turning 3 in January, as she will tell you herself! Whereabouts do you live? I'm in Sydney, 41, and at home with my two little ones. Oh yes, we actually use our names on this thread, well, a lot of the time so quietcontrary = Mary = qc.
Hi to Tracey and Tania - glad to hear things are travelling well with your pgs.
Tracey - congrats to DD1 being selected for the performance. I hope she is feeling better and you all have a great time in Townsville!
All's well here. Just about to shake myself and get dressed to go to the gym with the kids. They're dressed, I'm the only one in my dressing gown still.

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Had the egg collection today, so consequently I'm sitting here feeling miserable in my nether regions, but should be all good by tomorrow (hopefully). There were only 3 viable follicles at the last ultrasound, but when I woke up this afternoon, they said they'd collected 4. Then about 20 minutes later, I was told they'd "found" another two. Where were they lurking - behind my bladder??? Anyway, they'll ring me tomorrow and let me know who survived and who didn't. The transfer will be on Monday.

Hi Mary - no more cupping for a while. My back looks like a Twister mat except all the dots are the same colour - red. I have to have a session before and after the transfer and I currently have a needle in my ear, to relax me...

Is it the Coogee Bay you're talking about? Haven't been there for ages but love the beer garden on a sunny afternoon.

Hi Tania - how are you? Still pregnant - lol. What's your due date?

Hi Tracey - you only have 3 weeks to go as well until you get your first snapshot. How are you feeling?

Hi Amara - welcome!

I'm off to the fridge to find a pessary - what joy. Would prefer a chocolate.

Oh Mary - I've gone berserk on the sweets at the bakery down the road from Naomi. So much for Lite n Easy...

Ciao for now
Cat
:)

[Tabby]

Still lurking around but just never seem to find the time to post lately! other than on facebook, by time im done there time is gone ;/

Cat: Hope your nether regions are feeling better today! Good luck darling and hope the transfer goes well, thinking of you xx

Mary: hope the family is well

amara: welcome!

tracey, tania: hope alls well too xx

Got to dash, off to the sons for a bbq and then the outlaws later for bil's bday..can you see my excitement? Dont bother looking its not really there lol

[Cathrine]

How are you Vicki?

All regions are fine now thanks. 5 of the 6 eggs collected fertilised overnight which is impressive as it works on averages of 1/4 being viable. Transfer Monday which is far easier than the collection.

How's your new house?

Cat
:)

[surprisebub]

Cat - Congratulations on the egg collection :smiliedance:, what wonderful news. Hoping the next lot of news you get is even better, i have everything crossed for you. And yes unfortunately i am still pregnant lol. According to the pregnancy counter i have 2 weeks 4 days to go, due the 26th November. My doctor doesn't want me to go full term so bub could be here in the next week or so, will find out more on thursday.

Doctor is worried about the size of the baby, which apparently is quite small (strange since all my other kids ranged from 8 - 9 pounds), but i put it down to a different father and a lot of stress. He has now made me paranoid and stated that if after dinner bub doesn't move a real lot i should go straight to hospital. He also wants me to consider having a c-section, no real reason other than my age. I am not going to go down that route unless it is important for the baby.

Hope everyone is having a lovely weekend, the weather has brought us some rain this weekend which is lovely :yelclap:, lets hope it continues for awhile, it makes being pregnant that so much easier.

Tracey - Glad to hear is going good, will be thinking of you having your ultrasound on the day i am hopefully giving birth :yes:. Have you managed to find any accommodation in Townsville, sorry i wasn't much help. How did your daughter go with her singing, i bet you were bursting with pride, i know i would be :yes:.

Tania

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Ah, Sunday night comes around too fast me thinks. Even if I don't have to go to paid employ tomorrow I sure miss my dh when he does!
Tania - sorry to hear the Doc has concerns, I am sure everything will be fine with your baby.
Cat - hmmm, me thinks the acupuncture has done wonders for you! Hopefully it continues to do the trick!! I know that bakery, its pretty good eh?
The pub we've been frequenting at Coogee is the Palace, right on the northern end of the beach. I have spent far too much time at the Coogee Bay - I grew up in Randwick and lived in Coogee also for years!! The Palace has street parking and a parking lot just out the front, which is how we managed to stumble across such a child-friendly place. Genevieve had a butterfly face painting (again) and we are wondering how long it will be til Toby starts demanding having his face painted too.
Toby is the proud owner of 3 teeth now, thankfully like his sis they have just managed to slip out without any fuss. He still tries to make a break for the backdoor whenever he can, which is funny to watch. Not really crawling but getting around at speed in a commando fashion with the occasional attempt at actually crawling.
Must away, the 2 year old who has been in bed for ages needs to be sorted out by her mum!

[Tabby]

Cat: wonderful news hun, hope all goes well Monday too. Sounds like the acupuncture is doing the trick, will you have more after transfer too?
Still loving the move, I think its the best decision i have ever made, everyone so so happy and still are so must be a good thing
We are close to many wineries and restaurants etc here and cant wait to find some time to visit some with dh. Off to the local icecream maker next Sunday and the chocolate factory! yum

mary: Glad Toby seems to have cut the teeth so easily! how wonderful when it happens like that

Tania: Your gp sounds a bit stoneage with his request for a c-sect due to age?..hope all goes well.

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

The transfer went very well thank you and I'm the star pupil. Of the 10 women done Saturday and 7 today, my little crew were the best which as the doctor remarked is, "impressive for an old smoker". I had acupunture before and after and I'm feeling very pleased with myself. They are also all bigger than I've have before. I did however have shocking cramps and vomiting on Saturday night for a couple of hours and thought if this is half as bad as labour, I'm thinking of changing my mind. Any success with this I lay firmly at Naomi's door.

Hi Tania - your doctor sounds like a possible twit for the C section comment and a smaller baby sounds a bit appealing to me if you go the natural route. Try not to stress - not long to go!!!

Hi Mary - I know the Palace well from my salad days, although generally by the time I got there I was well oiled.

Great to hear about the smooth transition from gummy bear for Toby. A friend's baby has permanently inflamed cheeks the poor little thing. Only has two teeth so far so the parents are dreading the rest.

Hi Vicki - which direction in the city are you - north / east etc? It sounds like you're in a lovely spot. How's your day care progress?

Cheers
Cat
:)

[quitecontrary]

Oh Cat - can I insert Smug Smilie here?? I am so pleased to hear that things have gone well so far, and I don't know how I'll cope with this particular tww! Fingers and toes are crossed for you!

Tabby - I'm so pleased to hear that things are great at your new abode. Moving is hard especially when you've been in the old place so long. Yay for exciting new things to check out in the neighbourhood!

All's well here, nothing much to report today. Had to go and get a baby gate for the door between our lounge and dining room - Toby is just too inquisitive when it comes to firegrates and electrical cords when our backs are turned. So a gate it is. Between that and the playpen the boy is quite fenced in, poor chap. I think he will survive though!

[jariah4]

Hi all,

Just back from Townsville...left at last minute as dd1 had a miraculous recovery!

I drove down with the two dds and it took forever and took its toll on me I can tell you!
Just love driving in the dark in torrential rain with no dh:rain:.
Well, finally found the recommended motel and got a discount because we were with Angel Flight.
Got to sleep at midnight and up early for the juvenille registration!
Dd1 did very well ,and made it into the finals! Yay. However then we had to wait all day for that and ended up there till 6pm....from there drove to Ingham and stayed the night there.

So there you have it...We are all exhausted! Thanks for your offer Tania , however I ran out of time to pop on here before I left. I was thinking of you whilst in Townsville and would love to have met up. However not meant to be.

I hope you manage to avoid the c/section ...age is absolutely NO reason. That is crap ,don't let them bully you into something you don't want! Sounds like the 26th is a good date now hey? It will be my third ultrasound with this bub....due to bleeding at 9weeks, I thought I had lost it. So glad to see on the ultrasound that I hadn't!!
Then another for downs at 13 weeks.
Hi to the new ladies, I'm 45 with two dds and currently 17 weeks pregnant.
Hopefully that journey hasn't upset this little one too much!
Cat; Amazing news!! That is terrific...yay to accupuncture. It seems to have really helped.:fingerscrossed:.
Best clean up, inlaws arriving from Vic. at any time!!! YIKES!:eek:
Take Care,
Tracey.

[Tabby]

Cat, thats wonderful news and very encouraging!!! Am excited for the outcome which is sounding very positive xx
Im north east of the city..and feels very country with the flies and wind! but still love it :) I have the country without the isolation..if that makes sense

tracey: Glad you survived the trip! bad timing with the rain. Hope the inlaw visit goes well

Mary:Toby quite the handful, little boys huh! So full of mischief.

The day care slowly moving along with some adjustments and one baby gate purchased, but need 2 more. Also have my obligatory visit to 2 other carers to check the situation out starting tomorrow with no1. then part 1 of my senior first aid friday

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Hi Mary - you may have MANY smug smiles - lol. How is Toby liking his captivity with the gate?

Hi Tracey - was your dd pleased with how far she went in the competition? The trip sounded exhausting.

Hi Vicki - your new location sounds lovely. How did the carer visit go?

I had my last exam yesterday so it will be any moment before my parents pounce and want to know when I'm going to start looking for a job.

I caught up with some people from SA that I met in the UK last year - they are a lovely pair and have invited me down for a visit. I may be able to delay the job hunting a bit longer...

Cheers
Cat
:)

[Tabby]

Cat: lol hope you can manage to "delay" the job hunting

The visit went very well, lots of ideas and now shes coming to see me wednesday for my pre license visit. mainly she goes over the house and tells me what I need done and gives me my papers to apply for the 1500$ grant so then I can these things done and be ready to go come January.

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - glad to hear that things are moving right along with your family day care adventures!
Cat - well, you never know, you might just have to never go back to work, seeings you will be With Child!!!! Hide from your parents as much as possible!
Toby is coping with his captivity, and G has worked out how to open the gate when its not in fully locked mode - so far we don't need to use the lock.
Toby is also coping with the thought of actually having his own passport - I went and got the form today, and we went down and got his photos done too. We are going back to England on the 27th of Dec - flying Emirates and stopping over in Abu Dhabi for two nights in both directions. What fun!!
On the subject of fun, dh and G are bringing in the trampoline we purchased yesterday - sooo exciting!

[surprisebub]

Hello Ladies,

Well unfortunately this is a me post. Just spent the last 5 out of 7 days in hospital with prelabour and was finally released yesterday (finally got more than a couple of hours sleep :yelclap:). Orginally went to hospital just so they could do a CTG scan on me to monitor bubs movements, bub decided that would be a good time to start labour whilst on the machine, were 3 minutes apart for a few hours and then stopped, but would start up again whenever the nurses put the CTG back on me, bub is obviously a real attention seeker). Finally was released a day later only to go back the next day in labour 2 minutes apart, admitted to hospital and then would stop and start over the next few days :confused:).

The doctor has decided that i am to be induced tomorrow arvo if i don't go naturally by then, and last night i actually had a pretty uneventful night only dealing with violent heart burn and TMI my body cleaning itself out in preparation i guess. So have today to get all the final things done that need to be done before bub makes an entrance.

The doctor is treating this bub as a premmie (1st scan said 26th, 2nd 29th and by my LMP due 3rd December) as she is apparently very small (all my others ranged from 7lb 12 1/2 oz to 9lb 2oz) so i am thinking they are talking around 5lb :(, they have given me the injections needed for bubs lungs to cope etc, man do they hurt. He has also stated that any sign of a problem and i will be given a c-section, i would rather do it naturally but will do whatever to get bub out safely. So either on the 16th or 17th i should be holding my baby :valentine:.

As soon as i get home and settled i will come on here and post of bubs arrival and details.

Tracey, glad everything went so well for you in Townsville, if you are ever this way again please let me know and hopefully i can get to meet you.

Sorry this has been all about me me me :ecomcity:, but just wanted to quickly update you all as i have a fair bit to do today and tomorrow morning before heading off to hospital, unless of course i go naturally before then. Wish me luck.

Tania

[Tabby]

Hi Tania, try not to worry of the "premmie" label he has given bubs. Kaitlyn was born 3 weeks early at 5lb3oz, tiny as but with no problems what so ever and with mummy and daddy without any ICU/oxygen anything! They can also be very out with sizes , they told me katie was a decent size lol can also say baby is big and ends up a more averaged size
sounds like bubs is ready with that cleanout..mine came the day before
good luck hun and hope all goes well! Cant wait to hear all about it and see pics of your new arrival xx

Mary: Ah sounds like a lovely holiday planned! very envious, will be a long time before we ever get a holiday of a decent sort. with the day care if you want to succeed you have to commit to as much of the year as possible for permanent placements

Cat: Hows things hun? What date do you test?

[Cathrine]

Hi Tania - it will be interesting to see what personality bub has to be soooo determined to get here! All the best and don't worry too much. A girlfriend only bought her premmie daughter home on Thursday. She was just shy of 35 weeks and is now fit as a fiddle. And her lungs are seriously working...

Hi Mary - I intend hiding for a while! I am having a look at part time work (always wanted to work part time) and there are tons of positions so I'll try and nab something easy close to home.

I find it hilarious that babies have passports. How is an immigration officer supposed to correctly identify a child from a tiny passport photo?

Hi Vicki - I'm having a progesterone test tomorrow and if there are no disasters during the week, I'll have a pregnancy test the following Monday.

Things are moving at a cracking pace for you - you'll be swamped with kidlets in no time.

Take are all and:smiliedance: for Tania!

Cat

[quitecontrary]

Tania - I do hope all is going well!! I can't wait to hear the news!!
Cat - there aren't going to be any disasters during the week! I can't wait to hear all the news there either.
You are right about the passport - it does seem rather funny. The whole concept of travelling os with babies is not something I gave any thought to til I met dh. Now it seems to be all we think about! Heard from some cousins this morning, they are finding it hard to track down my sis-in-law to get the family news apparently. We are all missing my M-i-l it seems, she was so good at keeping up with everyone!
We've had a very lazy day here enjoying the new insulation in the heat - thanks Kev! Had a busy weekend (funny that!) so it has been good to have a day at home. I even had a nap on the lounge whilst both the kidlets were sleeping, and that doesn't happen very often at all.
Hope you're all doing well!

[Amara]

Tania - good luck with it all. Don't stress too much about size as they often get it wrong. My ex SIL had a very small bubba recently at full term & it was expected to be normal size.

:xmas:

I have been having a difficult few weeks lately as my ex has been trying to worm his way back in. He then suddenly disappeared & only communicated by phone. He's now back with his girlfriend. It's happened a few times since we split in Jan & it drives me nuts. I don't want him back but just can't seem to get rid of him.

My dad had a minor heart attack today so I'm quite worried about him. He's 76 & a diabetic & has prostate cancer so I can't help but think it's the beginning of the end.

Sorry for the gloomy post.

[Izy]

********DELIVERY NOTICE**************

Well I think it is anyway :rolleyes:

I got an MMS from surprise bub with morning but it failed. I'm assuming that Willow has joined us, but am waiting on the official confirmation.

Will update you all soon


YYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY TANIA!!!!

[quitecontrary]

Yay Tania!!!
Izy - thanks for the news - I am looking forward to having it all confirmed too!!

[Izy]

Oh... Message came through :yelclap:


Willow Antoinette Katherine was born at 2:10am 17/11/2009 a tiny 6lb 15oz (about 3.15kg), after a 40 minute labour.
She's the spitting image of her sister!:thumbsup:
:cloud9::cloud9:

[quitecontrary]

Welcome to the World Willow!! Congratulations Tania on the safe arrival of your baby girl!!

[Tabby]

yay congratulations Tania on the arrival of Willow!!! (thanks Izy for the update )
cant wait to hear all about it!

Amara: Sorry to hear of your Dad hun , hope it all turns out okay (hugs)
and the ex is being such a pain! !!

[Cathrine]

Hi Mary - always take the nap when possible! You've made me wonder if we need Kev's pink batts here. I've decided to rearrange and paint my room and do other bits and pieces, but after listing them all, I've decided to get a painter / handyman - I'm so lazy.

Where has your SIL scarpered to?

Hi Amara - how is your father today?

Hi Vicki - how was the inspection?

Yay Tania!!!

Cat
:)

[Tabby]

hi Cat, inspection was great, not a lot i need to do and off to a play session Tuesday and Wednesday and then start the 3 day training on the 28th

There is one lady here with 19 kids on her wait list the demand is so high! So she said I can earn my 1k a week easy and quickly..pity the ils didnt see a $500 investment would help us achieve that sooner..so for now can only do a few things and then wait for the grant..over xmas hols...more delay..

Hows things with you?

[quitecontrary]

Tabby - pleased to hear that all is going well towards Family Day Care. Don't worry about what could've been, enjoy the build up to and the Christmas festivities with your familly in your new home without having to worry about other people's anklebiters! Sounds like you will have the kidlets running around your home early in the new year anyway!
Cat - get the insulation organised, its so worth it, especially for naps in the afternoon! Our house has high ceilings (1926) and was pretty good of its own accord, but so much better with the insulation! How are you feeling??? Any news of any description yet? Nesting already huh??? I just can't help it sorry!
We are all well. I am about to make a dentisit appointment - so overdue and such a mess in my mouth again I can just tell. Playgroup is on this morning - I am going to try and be organised enough to walk down if its not too hot. Parking down there is such a pain, even in the heat its probably easier to walk.
Can't wait to hear more from Tania!
Hope the rest of you are going well too!!

[Tabby]

Morning Mary: Hope the heat isnt too bad for your walk..I really need to get my butt into gear and ring the local play group here today so we can start going too
Im feeling the isolation..even tho am closer to ils its made no difference so it came back and bit me on the butt as now I am further way from everyone..

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - it's an exceptional job if you're paid to play - hahaha. Being further out of town makes it nice when your family and friends come to visit.

Hi Mary - we' re in a bungalow here which is very cool with high ceilings, but if it does eventually heat up - it's a nightmare. I'll speak to those that must be obeyed and see if they have it.

Beware the dentist! Someone told me to go and have my free check up and several thousands of dollars later, my mouth is fixed. Don't delay.

I had a dodgy day yesterday. Woke up with period pain, then went off to the acupuncturist for treatment; came home with a $200 speeding fine and started to bleed last night. If I took the glass half full stance, I'd say it was an implantation bleed. If I take the realistic stance, I'd say game over for this process. I'll have it confirmed Monday.

Ciao for now
Cat
:)

[quitecontrary]

oh cat, this is a one handed quick I hope you are wrong - what did N say?

[quitecontrary]

Back again!
Cat - you are right about the dentist, made an appointment today with another one as the first one of choice didnt have any appointments til mid Dec. It is a scary long time since I was last at the dentist and I know that there is a bit to do.
My sis-in-law is still in London but she is a bit slack at returning calls sometimes - I think she is finding things hard with all the cr@p thats happened to her this year - first her mum being so ill, then dying (lots of constant phonecalls) then her partner being diagnosed with cancer (more enquiries I'm sure) and of course all the kerfuffle with my f-i-l, finding him care and then the home(s) kicking him out to the psych hospital (x2). So she hasn't been returning her aunties calls it seems!
Vicki - it sounds like you are in a great spot for family day care! None of my in-laws have visited us since before we were married - and its not like my s-i-l or b-i-l can't afford the trip out here. Different situation I know. We are walking distance to my older sisters place and these days we hardly see them once a fortnight. Families huh? It is a big change for you after so long in your last place - I am sure you will have the neighbourhood sorted out before long! Oh, and what about some pics of your new place??
Our day was fine. All the kids were taking turns to scream and carry on, it was a bit of a madhouse I have to say. Toby was the calmest child there!!
Genevieve has been having a bit of regression with the toilet training which is making for interesting times, hopefully things will be better again soon.
I went out shopping this afternoon when our babysitter was here and got a lovely little black dress to wear to my Dad's 70th birthday party! I was so pleased to find something - otherwise it would've been a case of digging something out of the wardrobe - not quite as much fun!
Hope you're all doing well!

[Tabby]

Oh Cat, I do hope its the glass half full for you love. Will be waiting Monday for your news (hugs)

Mary: Ill get some pics on my picasa online album for you tomorrow! kept meaning to but totally forgot sorry xx

got to run, I have no diary as yet only 2010 at the ready yet i think I need a nov/dec09! Slowly booking up and so confused am worried will miss a appointment
sit my assessment (after a city trip to collect my child services book and only 1 week to learn it!!!)
3 days training
3 days play session attendance
2 half days at another carers house
and forget all the paper work to be signed by the powers that be..
police clearances x 3
child care worker clearance
house site plans
full medical
referees to fill out forms
and on and on lol
license
day care scheme acceptance
Be ready for the melt down that will surely occur as all this is between looking after a family, running after a 3 year old

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Hi Mary - I'm not surprised your sil has gone to ground. Each thing she is attending to is massive by itself. What's the update with her partner?

Hmmm - surround sound screaming - sounds like a blessing - hahaha. When is your father's party?

Hi Vicki - why on earth do you need 3 police checks? I was in the loo the other day when a woman was faced with leaving her little daughter in a pram outside the cubicle. She looked at me and the other woman and nervously laughed and said that we didn't look like baby nappers. I thought about my police checks and was going to say I worked for DoCS. Then again, I thought that may make her realise, that I might take her child - lol.

You have a ton of stuff to do. Are they being easy to deal with?

I got my negative result today, but the good news is they've found my embryos. Yes, on Friday they didn't know where they were, but I spoke with one of the scientists today and she has them. Mum asked me what the chances are of me producing an Asian, a blonde or a black baby. She thought it was hilarious. I thought I'd need an exceptional cover story for that outcome.

Anyway I was early for my acupuncture treatment so had a lovely time driving around the beaches. Mary, Naomi wants me to delay further treatment to get my body on shape. Any suggestion of further delays make me nervous so we may have to compromise on that.

My darling mother got carted off to hospital today after some clown ran up the back of her. Considering she has a spine like chalk, I was fearing the worst, but there are no fractures in her back and she's home now and feeling sore and sorry, so it's very good news. The nurses were lovely to her and apparently the paramedics had her in giggles the entire trip so when I got in to see her with strapping and a neck brace, she had a sore jaw - from laughing...

The moral of the story is ... if you're not slim, don't try and fake it! It took 4 nurses to get her contour kickers off...

Hope you all have a lovely week!
:reindeer:

[Tabby]

oh Cat you had me LOL so hard at Mums dilemma with the contour knickers! So glad shes okay though, scary indeed!
sorry to see was negative hun. (hugs) A new year BFP it is for you then!!! :yelclap:

I just picked up my child care services act and regulations books and feel rather over whelmed but as dh explained I have most of it in me already so study it for a week and that with my being a mum of 3 and plenty of common sense should see me understand it all and hopefully pass...only 3 out of 40 can be incorrect to pass

3 clearances, 1 for me and 2 for the boys, family day care requires all members 18+ in the house hold to have one.

Just home from picking up ds from city so will head to bed as big day tomorrow with the 1st day of attending "play sessions" at the fdc scheme offices :yelclap:
another wednesday and thats another can tick off the have to list..start day 1 of 3 training saturday and Katies early bday party Sunday!

whew off to bed to clear my head ..hopefully!

[Tabby]

forgot to say, have many a time taken the last cubicle and peed with the door mostly open and pram as far in as can get with a hand on pram...ah hard to hit without some sort of a miss though at that angle LOL'
When youve got to go youve got to go !

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - Mum is most indignant that when the other woman rang her husband to say she'd been in an accident, she said she'd hit an "old woman". Didn't that go down a treat - lol

I forgot about adults in the house being checked too. Well you're getting there, once all the paperwork is done, it will be great.

They should have more large disabled toilets so you can bring a pram in. It's ridiculous.

:reindeer:

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Pleased to have bubhub up and running to speed!
Firstly - with the pram and bub and toiet thing - now that I have two little darlings in the one pram I feel that anyone would be nuts to want to take them! So they get put across the door if there isn't a disabled toilet.
Cat - sorry to hear about the negative. Glad to hear they found your "spares". Naomi is a wise woman, when would the earliest be that they let you "go" again anyway? 30 minutes walk every day, watch the calorie intake and that 10% loss that helps fertility will be yours - plus N can help you with that as well apparently, though I haven't availed myself of her services for that!

I bet your Mum was well p!ssed off at being called Old, and yes to the chuckles re: the knickers!

Vicki - sounds like you are busy as, how good it must be to be getting it on the way. I bet you've got a lovely party organised for Miss K! We are having a little party for G in London "with all her London Friends" and when we get back we'll have a party in Feb for those who couldn't join us in the UK!!
We are going to be flatchat the next few weeks. Now it seems that dh's work christmas party is going to be on the 1st - toooooo early if you ask me but I think the first venue/date had some kind of mix up. Dad's birthday party is on the 5th. We're having family photos taken of all the grandchildren and it seems all the children on Thursday morning - should be fun! The date was only set for the pics last week - luckily I'd already arranged a haircut and colour today! So at least I'll have glamour hair!!
The kids are going well. We had a very busy weekend and a few late nights so G has actually been sleeping in - unbelievable really! T has two more teeth so now has 5! He is sooo cute - and I just adore him!
Getting late for this Mama bear so will leave it here.
Trust you are all well!

[Tabby]

lol Cat, Yes am sure that would go down to well re: old woman lol

Attended day 1 of 3 days play sessions, it was great fun and miss K was worn out! didnt want to go and cried on leaving heh

Mary: Yep Sunday a early bday party with the family. no theme this time though, just nibbles and drinks and smorgasbord finger food as we are rather tight at the moment.. decided will have a nice tea party next year when the $ are high from my day care! :)
the london party sounds wonderful for Miss g! Dont forget the photos.
Oops! No havnt forgot, will upload tomorrow for you of house..sorry!
Sounds like a full on month for you too!

Am home for the next couple of days to study the books for my assesement so will pop on again :hugs:

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Yes, the BH delay was annoying, but it seems to be working well now.

Hi Mary - the earliest is to wait for a month off, so that would be January and the clinic is on hols so it may be Feb or more when my cycle syncs with them. Naomi is happy to go on for decades ... that's the negotiation part. Your advice is very sensible and I will try, but as I type I'm working my way through a packet of chocolate bullets. My savory taste buds are turning sweet which isn't good.

I absolutey love birthdays and am pleased to see that G has cottoned onto the joy and is planning parties in both hemispheres! Clever girl. And a Christmas party is far too early on the 1st!!!

Hi Vicki - where did you have the play sessions? At another carer's place? When do you have your first test?

All very exciting. What are you doing for Christmas?

Ciao for now
:reindeer:

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Just a quick one as once again its getting late for this Mama.
Today I ended up at the emergency dentist getting my mouth looked at and xrayed. I am having two wisdom teeth pulled on Saturday - I've had The Getting of Wisdom and now it seems its time to discard half of it. Thank goodness it was my wisdom - I couldn't tell but I had such a jaw and headache last night I was crying with the pain. So I am drugged up on antibiotics (again) and panadeine forte - but am only using the forte at night and just panadeine during the day. Fascinating huh?
Vicki and Cat - you are both on Facebook? I think I can track you both down there, I have actually put up some recent pics there now I have the whacky-do iPhone.
Cat - I agree on the Celebrating of The Birthday! Genevieve loves parties!
Vicki - I know you will have a lovely time celebrating Miss K's Big 3!
Genevieve is starting to get the Christmas thing, except she wants to give Santa a present and has been making a picture of a Christmas tree for him - as you do. Am thinking about taking the kids into the city tomorrow for the lighting of the Christmas Tree in Martin Place.
We are having professional photos taken tomorrow morning (did I mention this before?) of all the nieces and nephews and their mums and uncle - down in the park along our street. It should be a hoot. I have decided to dress Toby in baby clothes as he is going to have enough pics taken in his life in a blue check shirt and a pair of cords!!

[Tabby]

Hi Cat, Had the play session at the FDC scheme place, they runa day care there and have a side part for carers to meet and play etc and where my training on Saturday will be.
I sit my assessment on Wednesday arvo e
I am having the xmas lunch here, invited the ils but got a "maybe" ...not holding my breathe, if they dont we have decided they can get well and truly...
She doesnt like to upset the fact its always been her house for xmas lunch and cos sil etc are more than willing thats what will happen but without us. I was promised if we got a bigger place I could be the hosetess...
whats your xmas plans?

Mary: lol go miss G! Katies not quite grasping xmas but am sure will slowly come on dec1st when we pop the tree up and chat more about it

Speaking of ils, no idea if they are even attending her bday..am sure they are but have not bothered to ring to see " is there any thing you would like me to cook/bring?" ..lol how true the colors have shown of late

no mind, we are blissfully happy here and if its not to be shared with them then thier loss

am off for a cuddle :thumbsup:

oh and Mary, yes to FB, will pm you my email so u can find me by entering it :)
you can then see the house too! lol

[Cathrine]

Hello my dears,

Mary - you poor thing. I've always said that the getting of wisdom is a painful affair. I only had three and just one was a nasty removal. Good luck!!

Will Al eat the biscuits and drink the milk on Christmas Eve or go Australian and have a beer? I love kids reactions when they see the food is gone. How did the photo go? Did they all behave?

Hi Vicki - I think you should have done a civility check on your outlaws before you married. They sound awful.

What were the other carers like? I hope you're studying madly for your assessment.

Hopefully Christmas will be very low key for us if we manage to fend off cheerful rellies and friends.

:reindeer:

[quitecontrary]

Hi!
Cat - I'd forgotten about your family and your tradition of dodging the invites at Christmas!
Vicki - can you just do the in-laws year about on the actual day?
As you all know I no longer have that issue - and as it was, it was on the other side of the world so it was always going to be my decision as to whether we went there or not. Thank God we did go 2 years ago for the actual day - not that either of dh's siblings came on Christmas (pack of weirdos). I've told dh that I'm going to tell them to come out here every second year now, saves us having to go back in our Summer. Though of course we are heading over after the Day this year. God, what a whinger I am. We're doing the winter thing because T was too young in the English summer and we didn't have the energy to make the trip so soon after my mil dying. This trip will be the decider as to how often we go back as a family.
Had two teeth out in the middle of the day - very quick and not too sore now, was pretty sore before so its good to know it will get better! Have been lazing around whilst dh does the kids and dinner. We were meant to go to a housewarming this afternoon/evening but there you go! As I said to dh, true to form if you invite us two months in advance when it comes to the actual day we won't be able to attend.
Tomorrow though it will be full steam ahead again, won't be missing the playgroup christmas picnic, thats for sure!
The family photos went well, apart from my ********* big sis being rude to me. She can't help it, I just have to rise above.
Dinner is on the table!

[quitecontrary]

hahaha - have actually been moderated about my sis! Fair enough, no point calling people names, even if they're never going to track me down on-line!

[Cathrine]

That's hilarious Mary - I was moderated for something like pointy shaped head...

Yes, we are still the dodgers and now we have a fairly great excuse. Mum's neck is going to be more painful than expected... Although they are planning a quick trip to Brisbane to look after some chooks in January, it will be the post Christmas miracle- lol.

Good to hear that your mouth isn't giving you too much grief, although it is awful. I think that anything that goes bung with your head, tooth ache, ear ache etc is just so much worse than a sore thumb.

I think your relatives have to come to the party sharing visits. We're reasonably flexible, although M&D would probably balk at any long flights now.

Any woo must scat, hope you're feeling better soon.

:reindeer:

I love this little reindeer.

[Tabby]

Hi Ladies!

Cat, AM trying to read up as much as poss, she did say today assessment is a open book and its more about learning where to look rather than knowing the answers so thats good!
Its wednesday so Monday dh will occupy dd while I read it well and un interrupted
Training today was fun, really enjoyed it and got a lovely lunch as well!

Mary: Glad the teeth pull wasnt too bad and on the mend so quick

still not heard from mil etc lol
Both of them see psychiatrists and i know why, they both hold things in. NO body in that family says how they feel EVER and if you do ( i learnt the hard way) your being pathetic/*****y/trouble maker etc by saying how hurt you feel etc
I just wish If dh and I have done something wrong that they would have the guts to talk to us about it.
anyhow! early bday for K tomorrow! exciting. :yelclap:
all the cooking done and cake baked and dressed with Dora :thumbsup:
will pop the pics on FB as always

[Tabby]

oh forgot, Mary, I could do year about but my mum n dad are very old and very much alone..If I dont go there, they would see no body xmas day and I dont like the idea of a flying visit and leaving them to the rest of xmas alone
Bee up my butt about how mil knows this and wont extend the invite for all so im not at all running to please
She says its too many...they own a MASSIVE 2 story, plenty of money ( very well to do) and more than enough space...for mil its all about how it wil take her being the centre of it all away if shes not the only mum and nanna

[quitecontrary]

Just quickly - Cat - I think we were both using the same word when moderated! Its not the worst I cover up on this thing by any means!
Vicki - sounds like you have typically repressed ex-poms for in-laws, can say this as I have married into a family of them myself.
Sounds like you need to be with your parents on Christmas. If your in-laws don't want to extend the invitation then I think they've forgotten the true Christmas story, and how there always needs to be more room at the inn.
Enough on all that!
Late here, and Toby has already started singing out for his supper.
Back before long I'm sure!!

[Tabby]

Thanks Mary, you said it perfectly, the true meaning of xmas has been lost on them. :(
ah well


yesterday for Katies "early" bday
I never got a greeting kiss, fil promptly fell asleep couch and woke when over, not once did they ask how the day care was going..everyone else did.
mil came in end of serving to ask if need hand
mil never came in at dishes/cleanup time..( gosh am so not lifting my *** off the seat at her next family thing!)
then left soon as was over.
Also heard him say their plans for xmas day to someone so i know without even asking its now confirmed it wont be here.
Better in thier minds to stick thier heads in the sand and hope it all goes away that tell me..
Im actually very bitter about it all this morning, especially fil for falling asleep the whole time, rude! Its very hard for me not to be upset and hurt by it all..I think its because i feel they dont care as have never approached me or even dh to ask why we are now so distant..I cant attatch to them when they dont accept my boys as part of the family, thats pretty much how it all started on my part

well have much to do and im now rambling sorry!, not too messy here, just a few things out of place and need to quickly hose down the patio as there is cake everywhere lol

hope yous all had a great weekend! xx
i need to study my regulations tonight! 2 sleeps to go to assesment

[Cathrine]

Good luck for tomorrow Vicki !!!! Forget your inlaws and don't be hurt by their behaviour. They won't change and you can enjoy the differences in your family.

Study, study, study!!!

Hi Mary - if you want to see a spectacular reaction if you see Naomi again - tell her you're drinking green cordial. Is it possible to go ballistic is a calm, passive way??? lol. She is reducing every bad habit I have, but that one she has banned on the spot. I could have told her I was on ice and got the same response - classic.

How is your mouth?

Cheers
:reindeer:

[quitecontrary]

hahahaha Cat - you've been banned from the GI Lime eh? I can imagine Naomi going ballistic in her calm way!! What about Milo? Its too funny, and if that is the key to the change in your fertileness how easy will that be, and don't you wish you'd worked that one out about two years ago? Too too funny!!!
Alls well here, should go and attend to the lad!

[Tabby]

oh lol cat! Thats so funny. your being scolded like that lol

I find out fridays mail...I hope! or latest Monday but she said would be marked and in mail by 12 tomorrow so should make it here fridays..hope so but i think i did well
suppose take 1.6 hrs..took me 35 mins and that included re going over to re check lol
was easy as! i hope! lol

hi mary! xxx

[Cathrine]

HA! I don't think GI has anything to do with fertility - I think she's cordially prejudiced!!! I tried to argue that it was better than red and she wouldn't have a bar of it. I'm certainly not mentioning milo or anthing else that I like, just in case. I put my foot in it with coffee, I let slip I was the having jumbo size...

Fingers crossed for the exam results Vicki.:fingerscrossed:

Ta ta
:reindeer:

PS. Anyone heard from the littlest Willow...

[Tabby]

lol Cat


Thanks! will let yous know asap :)

[Tabby]

I passed!! 49/50! and i wasnt that out with the Q i got wrong, re: how long to keep injury records for..not 18 but 24 years of age :)

[Cathrine]

Well done you clever duck! What next?

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

1 more day of a 3 day training to go (thursday)
2 more play sessions to go ( Tuesday and new year sometime)
Police clearances and working with children check Monday
GP for medical wednesday
THEN! soon as the checks are back Ill submit for grant and license :)
Hopefully they wont close for too long over xmas/new year

[Tabby]

Thought I would share last nights outlaw visit.
It went something like this

Me: Did J tell you i passed my test?
Her: what test?
me: *sigh* dont worry..followed by silence
J: her license
her: oh! ....
no congrats, no well done, nothing!!!

I just nodded here and there after that and refused to talk, i think they got the idea as they left about 10 mins later.

Now I know where hubby gets his self absorption from
Least my family has been there to support me and congratulate me
and face book is amazing! ( and yous here!) without everyone there I dont think I would have got through the stress off it all. I think his parents are evil with the way they just ignore me when they can see im troubled

Lately this has brought to my attention to just how little my support from dh and his side really is. Ive been terribly lonely of late to the point of feeling like a single mother again..and he knows this but has done nothing..they know somethings up but do nothing...
Not a good outcome from this am sure

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki,

Do you think your evil in laws are getting into dh's ear about whatever they are complaining about? What were they like when you were seeing each other before you married?

I know it's incredibly hurtful, but you have to try and not dwell on it. They probably get satisfaction from upsetting you. Best form of revenge is success and happiness and you only have such a short way to go before you're licenced.

Try and keep perky. x

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Cat: fairly sure they arent in his ear as have asked many times if he knew what I had done wrong so I could fix it..hes always said no idea..and hes been a bit outted too now and has no idea why

I personally think its because Ive taken dh right off her apron strings and she hates his not being dependent on her in some way or another.

They seemed fine before we were married but that said it goes back to above..it took time to get DH off her skirts and now he is...so now she shows how evil she really is to me for " controlling" him for lack of a better word lol

and combined with the fact that I dont confirm to her ideas hasnt helped
we were having combined bday party for dh, me and ds2
she says " aww but every J's bday we go to sizzlers"
Yes P, but we want a party here this year for ALL of us
that sort of thing lol Not happy with wifey making the decisions and upsetting the family traditions
Oh! yes, see like xmas day" aww but we always have it here at our house"
" well this year seeing as we have a bigger house we would like to host here so hope you will ALL come"

and no, they are not. She wont change her xmas tradition for just one year
If she wishes to continue with any closeness to her son she needs to accept hes not her little boy anymore but has a wife and family of his own yaknow?

and its okay Im perky, I was actually glad I finally let them know I was annoyed, rather than smile through it with a BS smile

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Just a quick one! Had a very very busy weekend with Big 70th Party for my Dad and too many other social engagements!
Vicki - Crikey, if your M-i-l would rather go to Sizzlers (ick in my humble and uncalled for opinion) than have a family party she is not worth worrying about. Wish she was being a bit nicer to you all though. Sounds like its a bit of hard going at the moment.

[Tabby]

Hi Mary:

I wont be keeping quiet anymore as I have nothing to gain or lose by letting them treat me this way.
So am sure there will be repeat performances of the other nights silence from me lol
They havnt had the decency to tell me they wont be attending xmas here..I was told by another of their days arrangements which included a guest to their house..so mil has taken the ill just not say anything approach and I find that the utmost of rudeness..anyhow, sorry to go on about them.
Not many I can let it out to so tend to come here
sorry xx

Sounds like your usual flat out weekend
I dont know how you do it! Are your weekdays quieter?
Though I do wish we did more over weekends but dh is a bit of a lazy sod and if I do its under protest or just me and K

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - god, they sound pretty bad. I suppose we all go to my parents at Christmas and there is no question about it at least for one meal. Apart from my brother whose partner is from Sydney all the rest of us are married to "New Australians" (actually its like a joke, an Englishman, an Irishman and a Spaniard) who couldn't go home to their parents for a casual meal ever. I suppose it is hard to accept change - though I'm not standing up for your MIL at all, she sounds a bit too hard to work out.
One thing about my in-laws was that they both adored the fact that Al had actually met someone, he was already off their hands on so many levels.
Enough on that.
I must say congratulations on your fab exam results!!!! I know I said it on FB but it needs to be noted here too!!!
Yes, our weekends are generally busy as! Our weeks are too, but we always have the afternoons activity-free - well, nothing set! And Mondays are our lazy day - nothing set at all. Other days we have playgroup, storytime and Fairy Ballet (now thats a busy morning!!), and the kids go to the creche at the gym with me two mornings a week.
We have now declared Barbecue Season officially open here!! After talking to Dh about having friends around for dinner at various points in time before we go away last night, this morning I invited my parents and a cousin couple for dinner! We had a lovely meal out in the garden, so nice to be dining out there again!! I think thats it for the week though, as we are going out for dinner on Friday! It seems we have a relatively quiet weekend planned, only one party and one night out - thank goodness!!
Once again it is getting ridiculously late for this Mama here so I think I should leave this here.
Trust you are all well!
Yes, more Willow news soon I hope!!

[Tabby]

Mary: wow you certainly dont sit still long do you
lol Though I do expect mine to soon be of same once the FDC running. Loads of outtings and fun and more $ to do loads over the weekends...if ive got any energy left lol
Very looking forward to it though :)
Ive lost about 3 kilo towards a hopeful 10+? even more if i can stick long enough to help me get fitter. then will joi the gym here for more and for time out for me :yelclap:
Mind you the loss started with not eating from stress but once things settled I continued with good eating

Off tomorrow to get K a new bathing suit and then to go try out the brand new water playground :)

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

The only way I'd lose 3 kilos at the moment Vicki, is chop off a thigh... Tragic but true.

Hi Mary - how was your father's party? Did he have a good time?

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Hi Cat! Hows thing ?

Ive rang mil and told her i need her to take dd for a bit. I need some me time. I feel like burned out with all ive had to do alone these last few weeks
luckily she didnt have too much planned so can oblige. Wanted a whole weekend but one night better than nothing
Shes taking her friday to saturday and am off to have dinner with my oldest son friday night, no dh.

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - mil can't be all bad if she'll take K for a night - my mum won't do that yet - really reluctant to have G stay by herself but has all the other grandchildren, can't quite figure it out. Don't want to push it either. No-one will take G for the night it seems. Not even for ready money!!
Cat - Dad's party was lovely - over 50 people for a sit-down meal, my Mum knows how to turn it on!! Thankfully she had 4 paid helpers in the kitchen so she didn't have to do the prep to get the meals out, though she did cure the ocean trout and prepare the beef for the thai beef salad. The speeches were lovely - Dad had a great time! So much love in the place! Thankfully I had it confirmed by 2 GPs and 2 nurses that I could indeed have an alcoholic beverage having finished my course of antibiotics that morning - I appreciated the wine I assure you! Toby went to sleep in his pram at about 8pm and G pushed on through til midnight or thereabouts, and slept in til after 9 the next morning!! Very humane of her I must say! We had visitors staying so it was good to be able to have a chat with them just watching the bub roll around the room at high speed, G came out as breakfast was being served - which of course dh cooked for us!
This morning I was going off at/about all and sundry in the car, esp dh (who wasn't there) and G piped up with "Don't say that mum, he's a beautiful man" which stopped me in my tracks!! She is right, he is!!
Hope all is well with all of you!

[Tabby]

Mary, she takes K cos she loves her, there is no doubts in that..just me she doesnt obviously care for

lol how cute is G!! hahha They are just so adorable this age
sorry ot hear you mum doesnt, she doesnt realise what shes missing!

last day training tomorrow

[Tabby]

Last day of training woohoo!!
I have a few minor things to do for the grant and license like draw fence line on plans and get my medical but decided will do that next week as I need a small break

dh joined FB couple months ago, all his rellies over there added him and not me..wtf? No wonder I dont feel like part of them..They must all be arrogant and self centred lol

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - people are strange! Don't worry about the FB adds/not added - there must be some sort of code, I have dh's b-i-l as a friend but they're not friends - I think they figure that I will pass on all the news anyway. Plus its kind-of nice to have an out-law to out-law chat on line with my b-i-l. Then there are other cousins of dh's and they never put anything up on FB anyway. Then some people do the "only friends in ril" fb thing - as you do! Can you tell I over-analyse?
Glad to hear that the training is going well/went well. You'll be pleased when you get all your papers in order!!
I think if my dh wasn't such a wonderful man my parents would be called on much more! As it is we all go down to stay occasionally, and they send us out for dinner and take the kids in the morning so we get a lie-in! Now I get a babysitter two afternoons a week so I get out without the dynamic duo and without having to call in favours.
Genevieve is going quite mad with exhaustion - perhaps I should relieve poor Dh from her world of pain.

[Tabby]

I think thats part of my issues am having at the moment
DH does nothing and has done nothing to give me even 5 mins break to shut down

[quitecontrary]

Oh Vicki, thats hard. One thing that I can count on is dh taking over at least on the Genevieve Front as soon as he gets home. She is her Daddy's little girl, when he's around I'm left for dust. I suppose with your big move having just happened you must be feeling vulnerable - I hope your sons are helpful. I know you only have your youngest at home with you but I hope he pulls his weight. It doesn't reflect well on your in-laws if your dh can't lift a finger around the house. I know my Mum said that she really needed to train my Dad when they first got married after my big sis arrived, she needed him to be able to do everything, just in case. They were clearing land in the WA wheat belt in the mid 60's - isolation writ large. I always thought that Dad just did everything, but I was glad when I learnt how she had changed him. So, the bar was high as far as finding a decent husband was concerned, but I struck gold in that regard.
Tell your dh how you are feeling. Make him factor in Katie time and Vicki time please.
Hope you're feeling up again soon xx

[Tabby]

Thanks Mary xx

have told him many times over the last few months and was given a huge wakeup not just 2 weeks ago
I told him if he didnt this marriage would for sure fail
Ive seen nothing of any change


Ive stopped doing everything for him, the mountain of work clothes beside the bed show it lol
anyhow, yes ds is great, brings clothes out for wash all the time and cleans his room

I dont ask for much :(

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - I can tell you are a Do-er, and would find it hard to live with a huge pile of dirty clothes in your bedroom (me too for that matter) but stick to your guns. I know you will work things out, and I know you don't ask for much, do-ers don't. I know you will work things out with your dh.
ps get your son to put the washing on too, though it sounds like he'll work up to that soon!!

[Tabby]

lol Mary dont worry am not touching that pile!
More so after last night. Got up this morning to find choc wrappers near couch and milk glass sitting there!!!! grr just doesnt get through!

anyhow couldnt sleep so am up at 5am and wow havnt see the sun rise like this in years
Very peaceful and calming :)

[Cathrine]

Hello Ladies,

Hope you're well.

Hi Vicki - dh sounds immature, give him a kick in the backside. Are his legs painted on and that's why he can't get his washing to the laundry? You'll have to train him like Mary's mother - you will be far too busy with the day care children to coddle an adult.

Why on earth are you waking up at 5.00am?

Hi Mary - your father's party sounds lovely. I had a 70th for my father (and a bit for Mum - their birthdays are 3 days apart) and I conned a girlfriend and 2 cousins to be 'staff'. I also cheated and had it catered. We were flat out as it was so I would never have managed it by myself.

I am severely hung over and not exactly sure why. Yes, there was wine involved, but not too much. Probably skipping dinner wasn't particularly helpful.

I got a terrific mark for my exam considering I only studied for a couple of days beforehand. Now I'm back into my summer school subjects, but I can't really see too much information being stored today. Might be time for a nap...

Have you both noticed a free dvd on swimming for under 5s here on BH? Grab a copy.

The lease on my car is expiring soon and I had planned on keeping it, but decided last night (during my wine and cheese moment) to get a new one. I love car shopping!!!!

Take care
:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Cat, im not sure why 5am, have been for a week now! Maybe more light coming in in this new place??...
anyhow decided i do like that time
suns rising
cool and peaceful
:yelclap:

Ive been "training" him since day one! Am tired of it

hope the new car choice goes well and hangover feels better
must have been the night, i knocked off a whole bottle! lol
Not to hungover tho as now that i drink heaps of water i think its helped that dept

Hope you have a great Sunday xxx

[Countrydeb]

Hi Ladies.........have enjoyed reading your posts ,thought i'd better join in ,and stop being rude and distant....sometimes it's just so easier to read and not post replies........I am up having a bit of an anxiety attack so thought i would distract myself by coming on here....It's 1.52 here in w.a. and i should be well and truly asleep....I have a few things running thru my head and as usual i'm letting it affect my nigh nighs.....sigh wish i wouldn't do that i am a much nicer person when i get good sleep.....starting to yawn so hopefully might be getting tired again so time to hit the sack and :fingerscrossed: will be:sleeping:soon........

[Tabby]

HIi Cdeb
have replied your post
Hope you managed to get to sleep

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

I have decided to blame you Vicki for my hangover - hahaha. Are you still waking at 5.00am?

Hi CD,

I hope you're feeling better. There's nothing worse than being sleep deprived. Hope it's all over soon.

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

actually was yes till today which was 830! must have caught up with me but wow i feel more sluggish and tired so less sleep seems better for me now
lol and ill blame you for mine :) xx

[Countrydeb]

Tabby--got your replies thanks,got some sleep and woke to find hubby had bub and fed him an all...aren't i lucky.....

Catherine--Yep got some sleep,my bub actually sleeps well but i waste time usually on here or in front of tv and don't get sleep when i should.....also got a bit on my mind which always hits me as soon as i lay down....

[Tabby]

Yes your very lucky Deb
Any news?

Hope you all just away with xmas preps!

Not much change here, contemplating the other bottle of wine in the fridge actually lol but its a tad early for that

[quitecontrary]

Well, we have had an eventful past 36 hours. Poor old Genevieve had an asthma attack which started yesterday morning.
We are now home from the hospital with two sleeping kidlets. Genevieve is on an asthma medication regime for the next few days but I am so pleased that she is so much better. What a 24hrs+ we have had! Yesterday she woke up with incessant coughing at 4.30am, and basically stayed awake til 9.30 last night. We drove dh into work at 9am and she then vomited in the car, so luckily I had a full change for her, and decided then and there to take her to the Drs. Mum arranged an appt with not-our-usual Dr, closer to where we were - and I turned around and drove back to dh's work (we seriously had gone around a big block!) and left Toby with him. Raced over to the Dr's with a now wheezy child in my arms, and the Dr sent us straight down the road to Sydney Children's Hospital. After most of the afternoon in the emergency dept being medicated every 30 minutes we realised that Genevieve would need to stay in overnight. By this time my parents had come to the hospital (and I got out of there for half an hour and got some food) then left us again, and Dh arrived with Toby at about 5pm. So, I took Toby home and my Mum looked after him whilst I went back to the hospital with clean clothes and some food for dh. Dh stayed the night - he is better at going back to sleep than I am. I left them at about 10.30, after G had had her chest xray (asleep mind you!). Toby and I had a good nights sleep and headed back to the hosp this morning. Luckily there was nothing else lurking in G's chest apart from a viral infection. She was pretty fed up this morning, and full of beans! They had had an alright night, G was very upset to be woken up to have the ventalin, which must've been distressing for Dh, but she has no memory of being woken up in the night. Just as well, she was screaming the place down apparently. She was so tired again when we were leaving the hospital - quite hysterical but it only took her about 3 minutes (of hell) before she fell asleep. Fingers crossed she stays that way til 4 and the next medication.
So there you go, the news in a nutshell.
Hope you're all doing well and the countdown for Christmas is treating you all wonderfully!

[Cathrine]

Hi Mary - that sounds absolutely hideous. Did you know she was an asthmatic? Did you see the doco on asthma last week?

What will you do with G now? Is it preventative medicine or just when she has an attack? I bet the x-ray department found a sleeping child a blessing - lol.

We're trying to figure out how to do a Tardis effect on the fridge. Mum started rattling off the food for Christmas day and Dad and I looked at her as if she was a loon. Seriously we could feed 10 if she's handling logistics.

CD - glad to see you're getting some sleep and VICKI - put that bottle away ! :)

:reindeer:

[quitecontrary]

Cat - no, we didn't know she was asthmatic, though dh thought she might be heading that way as he had childhood asthma too. I can blame his genes. You are right, it was hideous. It seems it was brought on from a virus. At least now when it seems she is heading towards an attack we will have the ventalin ready.
Too funny about your Mum and the christmas planning - perhaps we should call over on boxing day and help you finish it off!
On the subject of boxing day I think I need to get the suitcases out today and start doing some packing of the winter woollies!! Oh, and on the subject of Christmas I think I have some pressie wrapping - and its about time that this place started to look a bit like Christmas!!

[Tabby]

oh dear mary, Know only too well that feeling, ds2 was diagnosed the same way about age 3 too, took me 6 months to get a gp who knew what he was doing as I knew there was more to it than just a cold etc!
The blessing of getting it young was he grew out of it which they usually do if its not too bad. He was about 16 when improved but even now still gets more choked up that others. Spent many a all nighter at princess margret on the nebuliser just so he could sleep a night as we were both exhausted..
Hope G also grows out of it (hugs)

Cat: lol I was going to but decided I wasnt happy with my own company again to drink with...

mil finally rang, totally ignoring my invite for xmas lunch to ask if we were coming boxing day
I told her dh will ring her and let her know...3 days later he still hasnt cos he forgets lol
Im not going..oops? i made plans to take and pickup ds2 from a bbq :) not my fault she left it to a week before xmas right? lol

[Tabby]

Not a bottle, is a stubby of corona ok? or 3
So hot and humid here!!!

[Tabby]

Cat: Cathrine has exceeded their stored private messages quota and cannot accept further messages until they clear some space.
heh you need to empty love. dw FB, i deactivated both for now and will just start up again nys and remove them :)

I hope your all quiet as your busy leading up to crissy?
Ive not done that much, mainly trying to relax to help find my self again
Seems to have worked. Along with walking the dog nightly on my own, luckily here is so safe, its been wonderful! and getting fitter and slimmer by the day heh and makes me feel great
I do believe i may have even been hit on while passing the dog park lol long stroy but he asked if I wanted to join him and his dog there lol

anyhow, made me feel great to know I still got it huh :)

K's official bday tomorrow. not doing anything as we celerbrated it few weeks back away from crissy
Still hard to find shes a big 3..

Hope you all have a absolutely wonderful xmas full of love and family gatherings to warm the heart
All our love
V and K
xx

[Cathrine]

I hate BH when it loses your message!!!!!

Hi Vicki - I've deleted my inbox so fire away. I've always heard that a dog, particularly if it's cute or small is a good pick up tool for men. However after your story, I may just pop in to the RSPCA and see if I can rent one for a few hours each afternoon - lol.

There's a similar story with a friend of mine and her parents and outlaws. Her father is very sick now and on oxygen so Christmas is going to be at her their place so he will be more comfortable. Her husband's mother (who I like, but is the stuff MIL jokes are made of) has decided that she couldn't be bothered and has told them this morning that she won't be there. The good news is that it has backfired on her, because everyone else is going (probably the fathers last year with us) so she is going to end up having Christmas lunch alone. People are rude!

And yes a Corona is a bottle, although a better size :)

Hi Mary - As dh is such a nice man, I'm sure he's only passed on a little of this particular genetic material to G and hopefully as Vicki suggests, she grows out of it.

My Italian and Greek friends are now calling Mum the "White Wog". They are outraged that she is over catering with food as they say that is their Euro heritage - lol. Another quipped that as Mum is mostly Irish, we'll be eating potatoes until February...

I had better stop procrastinating and go shopping, start wrapping and commence visiting...sigh...

Hope all are well
:reindeer:

[Tabby]

lol white wog haha that made me laugh hard
oh gosh what a mil that woman is to not care to bite her tounge and just attend what will most likely be his last xmas :(

lol yep, maybe you could start dog walking for others? get paid for it as well as a dating tool lol


Hope the xmas shop,wrap,visits go well!
Im still waiting on hubbys pay! Would think would do early and not xmas eve as usual day :(

[Tabby]

oh and i forgot to say he was kinda cute too! lol

dh just rang and he finally told mil just him and K going boxing day and could they pick them up.
She said will work something out for him.
Then proceeded to tell me they "might" be visiting tonight..might have to take my dog walk earlier than usual as fil is a pig anyhow and every time falls asleep couch within 5 mins of getting here so i may be just as rude in my opinion.
oh even on K's bday the other week he did the same then complained no sausage rolls left for him lol

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - how fun to have a friendly local dog walker to chat you up! Dh had better get off the couch and come with you!
Was just talking about our dinner with G and she is telling me that "for salad we need dressing, and we better set the table!" We are having dh's best man and his parents, and my parents over for dinner - Greg is a pom like dh and his parents are here for Christmas. I met them at the lads' graduation a couple of years back, they are really nice people. This place is looking like a tip, so I suppose I should attempt to do something it. I have done the dessert though, a very very easy tiramisu with a panettone. If its a winner I have a new very easy dessert for my repetoire!
Cat - your Mum isn't the only White Wog around - though in your case its even funnier as she isn't feeding the masses!
The whole m-i-l thing is making me quite sad at the moment, I was crying driving around the airport yesterday at the telstra billboard ads, with dh never able to phone home again. I suppose its all coming back to me with us going there, and her being so ill this time last year. We have planned such a wow of a trip this time, hopefully we won't have too long to sit still and be sad by ourselves, though I know there will be a lot of tears all round.
Enough on that!
I have discovered that I have a little bit more christmas shopping to do. My youngest bridesmaid is living in London and I have promised her a pair of uggs from the sheepskin shop around the corner. She is freezing it seems! I am looking forward to wearing my beautiful lined black boots I bought this winter again - in fact I don't think I'll have them off my feet whilst awake the whole time I'm in the UK!
Gosh, I have a lot of wrapping and packing to do - thank goodness we have a day between Christmas and when we go to get our bags packed!!
Hope you're all well and enjoying the Season!!

[Tabby]

Mary: (hugs) for you and your mil thoughts
I doubt very much if hubby is getting off the couch any time soon, or rather the computer. I just got so many nah cant be bothered with everything that i dont ask now, i just go.

When are you off and away? day after boxing day?

[quitecontrary]

Oh Vicki, that hubby of yours needs his head read. Doesn't he know that a good heart is hard to find? I do hope that he is doing something right.
Yes, we are off on the 27th. Can't wait, though I have quite a bit to do between now and then! Including some sleep - it is late here once again! We had a lovely dinner with my folks and Greg's folks - my Mum invited them all down to their place for Christmas lunch, so they are very pleased with that. I know my dh appreciates his in-laws!!
See you tomorrow!!

[Tabby]

Mary: Hope you managed a good sleep in preparation for all

Great news! I got my grant approved! just need fill in papers and it will be on its way
ah already can feel the lift as it gets closer :)

[quitecontrary]

Yay Vicki - so glad to hear that things are moving along with your Family Day Care! Your new house looks gorgeous and I know you are going to do a wonderful job looking after all those other little ones with Katie!
Happy Real Birthday to Miss Kate!! I am sure you are having a lovely day with her!
Its my sister Kate's birthday too today! We're having a family party at my little sis's place later on this afternoon.
Have already been out shopping and I think that that is that til I race through the dutyfree with two kidlets in tow on Sunday afternoon! Abu Dhabi might be an interesting place to shop eh? Biggest jewellry shop in the arab emirates apparently is there!
Bought my youngest bridesmaid her much wished for uggs this morning - she is freezing over there in London Town apparently. I know she will appreciate them, she better - they cost a small fortune, but thats Australian Made for you!!
Hope you are all going well, and looking forward to the Man in Red making an appearance overnight at your abode!!

[Tabby]

Thanks Mary :)

heh, that jewelery store sounds like a not to be missed!!!

I know, arent uggies so costly, but if looked after will last for years which is good :)

will wish you all a very merry Christmas for tomorrow and a very happy new years
though am hopeful to see someone here in between that heh
:xmas::tree::santa: :noel:

K is very excited to feed Santa tonight she chose choc teddy bear biscuits and a glass of milk lol

[Cathrine]

Hello Ladies - Merry Christmas!!!

Hi Mary - your mil feelings are so hard. My brother died years ago and it was birthdays and Christmas and anniversaries that sets everything off. It does get better, but in the early days, the simplest things reminds you. Hopefully, you will all soon have a Mona Lisa smile when you think of her rather than tears. And on dh's family, how is your sil's partner going?

Where did you get your fur lined boots from? Here or there? I had a squiz when I was over there and the ones I saw were purely functional (can't express how ugly they were) - nothing snazzy at all.

Abu Dhabi sound better than it was. I had a stop over there 20 odd years ago and it was the first time that I'd seen security being soliders with machine guns over their shoulders. You'll get some bargains at the jewellery shop - they're in dire straits at the mo.

Hi Vicki - congratulations on your approval !!! What's the next step now?

Did the evil inlaws come for a visit? What do you have planned for tomorrow (whoops - today). Are you still walking the dog - hahaha.

I'd better scat to bed, unfortunately I can't sleep in tomorrow.

Take care
Cat
:reindeer:

[Tabby]

oh gosh yes am still walking the dog....
lol seriously though its wonderful! I feel so much better for it, I walk very fast and get any agro /upset out of me and feel so much calmer from it.
Will have to do till hes gone

I cannot say enough of how hes been a right prick today

K was sick just now ( she gags easy from reflux and the bubble mix didnt help lol) anyhow, he growled at her as it was on the carpet! Eff the carpet, my girl was sick!, some compassion??
K wanted his attention last night, he made her wait, says be right there toilet first, and went comp after toilet, gone for 30mins, i gave him a serve how his girl had been waiting patiently for him for the whole 30mins and he chose the comp?
Hes very lucky I didnt throw a rock into it

anyhow was hard to play happy familys today needless to say but I did :yelclap:

[Tabby]

oh ill explain inlaws visit later, must go attend to K :)

[quitecontrary]

Happy Christmas to you!
I am sitting here still digesting my lunch - overeaters of the world unite I say!!
We have had a lovely day. I cannot believe what Santa bought for our kids, and what we got for them too. Then the haul we brought back from my parents was quite huge too. Goodness knows where we are going to put it all!
Apart from the gifts the day was just great. Oh, poor old Toby had his first tumble off the lounge on the verandah down there, I think my dear Dad and dh were mortified as he had been throwing himself around between them - not really sitting on Granddad's lap as T doesn't sit still much. Most of the family were watching. He did cry and has quite a mark on his forehead - but some mothers milk and ice and hugs did the job.
Cat - it must be hard for you and your parents. I know I do the crying for me and dh, though I think for him it will hit when we get back to England and things will be so dramatically different. You are right, it will get easier over time. My b-i-l is going alright, he starts further treatment sometime soon, not quite sure when.
I made dh ring his brother this morning as otherwise I knew we wouldn't hear from anyone over there. Dh and his siblings just haven't gotten into a pattern of calling each other - I am going to encourage it fully when we get back from our trip.
Good advice about shopping in Abu Dhabi - can't wait to have a look around.
Oh, just opened the last of my gifts from Dh, he gave me the most beautiful picture book called "Blueberry Girl" by Neil Garman - so lovely. Look it up!
Vicki - breath my dear, breath. Trust K is okay - and I hope dh is doing something right.
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

[Tabby]

aww Mary your hubbys gift to you sounds lovely

Im trying to find good but there is none other than I know he loves us both... just hes a lazy sod now and too comfortable in everything
treats me more like his mother and slave than a wife, hence no present for me this year
hohum

If dont get back on have a wonderful holiday Mary
:hugs: safe traveling

Just waiting of k to go sleep so can head out for my nightly walk

[Tabby]

yes Cat, they came to visit wednesday night to give K her xmas presents and dh and I.
They were quite affectionate and loving and not sure if was xmas spirit or something has been noticed finally with my unhappiness lately maybe?
but then spoiled their change in attitude when I realised ds2 didnt even get a merry xmas never mind a small token present ..as usual. Am so over their obvious rudeness with ignoring him
How hard is it to buy him something, even small to show hes considered part of family
As dh is working today we are going there tomorrow.

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies, what is a Zoints Profile???

Vicki - why didn't he get you a present? That's unbelievable. Anyway I saw the picture of Shane's necklace and it's lovely.

Is Katie feeling better?

Hi Mary - sounds like you had a lovely day with loads of gifts. I'm not sure if you know about it, but NORAD the US defence network track Santa and give updates so children all around the world knows exactly where he is Christmas Eve. It would be perfect for Genevieve and Katie to keep an eye out for him next year. Bought a tear to my eye and I'm ancient!

You'll have to train all the men to keep in contact, they're useless, but hopefully it will become a habit. I love the title Blueberry Girl so I'll have a look.

Vicki I hope you're having a more peaceful couple of days than you've had. Keep up that dog walking - lol.

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Cat , dont worry , have been every night, eve xmas eve and xmas day night :)

I didnt get a pres cos he doesnt even think
He knows even a small token as money is tight would have worked wonders
he just doesnt think..

K is fine as. Always passes right away as shes so used to it

Was a okay day but spent at inlaws so gather that outcome lol
As always I got upset over something, this was the girls talking of their boxing day shopping sales trip together..mil and the 2 sil's
My mood plummeted there and then

How was your day?

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - just a quick post - are you anywhere near the fires?

[Tabby]

The Toodyay ones?
The are off in the distance, no danger to us about 70k's away and cant travel to here

[Cathrine]

Good to hear Vicki.

Happy New Year Ladies and I hope your dreams come true!

Cheers
Cat
:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Hope you all had a great start to 2010!

xxx

[Cathrine]

Stay off that wine! lol. All good here and had a lovely Christmas.

:reindeer:

I'm still using the reindeer because I think he's going to disappear shortly - lol.

[quitecontrary]

Greetings from a winter wonderland! We are on our way back to London from sussex and it is snowing and gorgeous, though it might be a long drive, I think the kids will both sleep the journey away. All is well, more news soon I promise!

[Tabby]

Mary, hi!!! All sounds wonderful and hope you got loads pics for us on your return :wave:

lol Cat, havnt had a drink since last week??
hope your having a good weekend xx

We had more fires after that last one and these we could see from the front yard, up in the hills.
Luckily no lives or homes were taken.

DH has had a huge kick up the *** so things have improved dramatically here of last few days
Just hope can keep it up

[Cathrine]

Lots of photos please Mary and keep kicking if necessary Vicki - hahaha.

A reindeer ... bless

:reindeer:

[Tabby]

Still kicking Cat, might have get my old steel caps out soon though LOL

Keeping cool???

Mary: hope travels going smoothly xx

[Cathrine]

Yes, nice and cool Vicki. We're having very odd weather here, but it's lovely.

How's thing with you?

:reindeer::reindeer::reindeer:

[Tabby]

So so, could be better, the heat doesnt help I dont think
House bound and all! Feel a bit like a caged animal lately

Another hot for us today but cool change tomorrow thank goodness! Just hope not too humid, much prefer the hotter but drier heat

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Yes, we are back in the warmth and humidity - two things lacking entirely in the UK! Had heat in Abu Dhabi but not much humidity in the desert. Everyone else is having their jet lag afternoon naps, I suppose I should go and have one too soon. It is great to be home in our own place I must say.
Good to see that Vicki and Cat have been keeping the convo going in my absence. Where are the rest of you lovelies?? I know you are out there somewhere!!
We had an amazing trip! So so busy, so many different places, so much catching up with friends and relos. Can't really believe we did it all with the two little ones in tow - they really are troopers. No wonder G is having noisy issues getting to sleep at night, she never knows whats going to happen tomorrow.
Some highlights -
Flying in to Aberdeen airport to beautiful big sloppy snowflakes falling down, the look of wonderment on Genevieve's face was priceless. As was her comment when we were getting into the hire car "Do you like the snow G" "Yes, but I haven't seen a snow leopard yet" - hmmm setting the bar a little too high for that one!!
Watching G and her scottish cousins building a snow man on the deck at their place.
Toby deciding he can get up all the stairs at Aunty's place.
Watching the ducks on the river out the front of our holiday house in Suffolk.
Going to Windy Castle - oops Orford Castle - in Suffolk, even though it was closed due to snow.
Introducing Grandad to his grandson, and reintroducing Genevieve - they all had such fun together. It was really really positive, and we were a bit worried about it as Grandad had been so angry and negative (he has dementia and is in a nursing home).
Driving past Dh's old family home and seeing the trampoline and swing set in the garden - life is going on!! My dear old m-i-l would have loved to know that a family has moved into her beautiful family home.
Snow, snow and snow! So much nicer than the typical English winter - if its going to be cold and gray give me snow over rain any day!!
Genevieve walking into our friend L's bedroom and saying "Its a bit messy here, I'll help you tidy up" - L is 30 mind you! They had a great old time and G scored some great loot!!
Having Miss G's London Birthday with all our London Friends! The cousins all bailed due to the weather but the Londoners came through!! She had a lovely time dancing and eating and generally being 3!
We stayed in an Oast House in Kent (with cousins) visited a Tudor cottage in Sussex (cousin's again) a London terrace (aunty and uncle) a Gardeners Bothy (near Windsor) a farm cottage (Montrose Scotland) a riverside house (Suffolk) - yes, in just over 3 weeks!
Any questions?
Oh Abu Dhabi was great for a stop over and I can't recommend the novotel highly enough there, so so child friendly!

[Cathrine]

Mary - lovely to have you back! It sounds like such a divine holiday. How did the kidlets go with the flights?

Post some photos when you get a chance to catch your breath. I'll send you a photo from the BBC site in Scotland that a friend sent me. You'll think you're looking at Narnia - lol.

All good here although Vicki and I have been steaming - love heat - not humidity.

:australia:

[Tabby]

Mary: Sounds wonderful! cant wait to see some photos. Sounds like G had a awesome bday too

cat: hot again here, hows it your way?


No celebrating oz day here
same o same o for us
contemplated a bbq etc but then would mean I have to cook out in the heat

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki, we're having warmish days, but lovely cool afternoons when the southerly comes in.

What did you end up doing for Australia Day? How's things?

Cat

[Tabby]

We did absolutely nothing for oz day. I had no incentive to make that happen either so if i dont he doesnt lol He played games, i sat tv room with K
What about your oz day?
Its been very hot here the last 3 days, cooler today with back to 31 so happy with that

yesterday i spent the arvo with K in her paddling pool, music and with a couple of beers lol
It was great! really enjoyed it and must do often when so hot

xx

[quitecontrary]

Hello again!
Vicki - sounds like things aren't too crash hot in your neck of the woods. I believe that Family Day Care must be very close to commencing at your abode - that will change things so so much I am sure! I take my hat off to you - I see the women around here who do it pushing the triplet stroller with a few others on reins down to the local park and know that they are all having a lot of fun!! Just the phil and ted double decker is enough to keep me busy - but I know when they are not your own it is a different matter - you know they will be going home at the end of the day!
We ended up having an early evening swim down at the Bay on Aus Day - it was our second day home and we were all really in Jet Lag Land. The kids are almost over the lag, which means we are too. T still has a few funny ideas about what it is acceptable between midnight and dawn, but I have been "rationing" his day sleeps so at least there is some better chance of him having longer sleeps at night. He is so close to being moved out of our room, its just having the energy to deal with him in Genevieve's room - but I know he would do a lot more "self settling" if Mum or Dad didn't leap up to him, and we wouldn't hear his every move when he's in the next room!
Vicki - we must get our paddling pool out too - both the kids will love it I know.

We now have our houseguest, Jon, staying with us. He is a guy I worked with and lived next to in China, who lives in London (when not in China or in Aus with a working holiday visa) and he's about 12 years younger than me. Today we were all at the plaza shopping and dh was in the fruit shop when we ran into an old friend of mine - who thought J was my husband - we laughed a lot right then and there once we worked our her dilemma. And then she remembered that she had actually met Dh. J is of african american/jewish white american descent, looks a lot younger than me and bears no resemblance to either of my children! So it was pretty funny!
Dh and I are sitting here at the dining table with our matching laptops - things move pretty fast around here on a Saturday night eh?
Hope you are all well!

[Tabby]

LOL Mary, Sounds like things move as fast there Saturday nights as here hehe
Yes day care almost here! Would say 4 weeks away or so. Pre license visit today then lodgement if alls well
which means must go! Want it spic and span for her
and insert sarcasm to how did it ALL yesterday on own..even washed car while he sat on his butt and watched? *sigh*
im buggered!

[quitecontrary]

Oh Vicki - poop to him not even washing your bl@@dy car. No wonder you're buggered. Hope things improve re: Him.
All is well here. Our houseguest cooked us dinner tonight, and helped another friend look after the kids late this afternoon as Dh and I had an appt with the accountant - my eyes are glazing over just at the thought of it - next meeting I think we will actually do our tax, which will be so much more exciting eh? Though we did sign the docs for our Family Trust, now all dh has to do is earn some more money so we can use it, apparently.
Apart from this excitement, Genevieve started preschool yesterday!! We were both very brave, no tears at leaving, though I did allow myself a few in the quiet at home yesterday when our guest was out and Toby was asleep.
More news soon, T is howling for some supper!

[Tabby]

Aww Mary Bless little miss G taking kindy so well! (hugs) to Mumma.
I was going send K but really not worth it as the day care will offer her the same and in my care to boot!

Alls a little better here , though have said that before and time will tell.

[quitecontrary]

Hello again!
I have two sleeping kids and a houseguest who is writing emails in another room so its bubhub time at long last!
Things are moving slowly on this thread - but at least its still bubbling along!
Vicki - pleased to hear that things are a little better. Gathered as much from FB.
Toby was just having a whinge - though I think I will ignore him a bit longer as he could do with some more sleep.
Genevieve loves preschool - was giving cheek day 2 it seems, screaming out during rest time that she wasn't tired etc - don't I know that one!! If she can work out that at least she should be quiet that would be a great start! I think she will crack and sleep there too - as she still has an afternoon sleep here most days.
T is getting louder!
Back soon I promise!

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Hope you're well.

I've had a hectic week with computer problems while I was trying to do 2 assignments and an exam. Mum decided to be pesky and get sick so I took her to the hospital and she was out in a few hours. Apparently she has sludge somewhere. Gall bladder I think.

Australia Day was quiet studying which sounds a lot more fun than yours Vicki.

Mary - you and yours bounced back so well after such a long trip. Well done!

How did G like kindy? I read an article the other day when a single mother was flying with her twins and the staff demanded that one twin sit on a random person's lap... may be quite fine if it's a nice nana like person, but really !

So Vicki, what's dastardly up to now? Besides not washing your car? Have a nice break now because you will literally have your hands full in a few weeks.

Ciao for now.
Cathrine
:)

[Tabby]

Cat: What on earth, never heard of sludge in the body lol
How is she now? What do they do?

Mary: ah hope your enjoying your little more peaceful days. Good timing to rest after your huge trip I imagine

nothing much here, annoyed? lonely still
really not working but ah well you get that.
The weekend will be great though! Some adult conversation from ds1 who am picking up later today after his work day to come stay for the weekend.
He loves his little sis and spends hours playing with her and talking to me so is going be a lovely weekend, odds on dh sitting comp the majority of it which he does when I seem to be occupied, he will see ds1 as my distraction for him. If that happens as know will the big D word will be hit again Monday and very hard and permanently, so unbeknown to him his "test" to see if i got through and if things will change for long term starts tonight

[quitecontrary]

Cat - hope (a) your exams went well and (b) your Mum is feeling better! Same q as Vicki though, what was the sludge??
Yes, travelling as a lone parent with twin babies would be almost impossible - I can imagine that you would be "forced" to give one to the poor person who drew the short straw and was sitting next to you to hold - during take off, landing and turbulence.
We have travelled on many airlines with our children and most of the hosties will almost willfully ignore you with the kids. I did ask one to hold T for me whilst I was getting out of my seat and attempting to put him in the bassinette and she was most reluctant. We never sat all together, we always had one seat either behind or across the aisle as they didn't want to put three people (plus infant) along in the bassinette row as it would kind-of knock out the other bassinette. Go figure. Dh usually sat next to G in the bassinette row and we would share Toby between us. He could deal with G whilst I had T most of the time.
Gosh - talk about rattling on!
Vicki - boy oh boy, sounds like that dh of yours is skating on thinner ice than he could imagine. I hope you do have a lovely weekend with your ds1 and that your dh decides to join in the family activities. Vent away here - its not an actual conversation but sometimes its good just to get it off your chest.
We are fine - still have our lovely houseguest. My parents came back from their South East Asian tour - they had an absolute ball it seems, kind-of roughing it around Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia!
Am thinking I should wake up the kids before too long, we took my parents home in the middle of the day so their sleeps started later than usual - but I think it would be best if they got up soon. I think we might go out to dinner (hahaha) if Dh doesn't finish work tooooo late. We shall see!
Hope you're all fine and dandy - and starting lovely weekends!!

[Tabby]

Mary: Thanks, it does help to get it out even if here.
what sort of dinners out do yous prefer?
Given chance here would be chinese but alas dh hates it so always end up some carvery/hamburger place..never any thing different or exotic! Wont even try, indian, japanese, nothing unless a hamburger on menu lol
so needless to say i dont push it to go to dinner anymore and thus we dont go. actually, we dont go anywhere any more because I stopped making the plans and he never asks/suggests lol
Did go out to dinner with mum and ds1 yesterday though as they asked me out, Just needed some time out and they knew it, my dear dad sat with k :thumbsup:
Hope you also have a great weekend! :wave:

[Cathrine]

Hi Girls,

Sludge is apparently less gooey than it sounds. I think it's a precursor to gall stones. They drugged her up for the abdominal pain and that may have bought her blood pressure down and fixed her nausea and back pain, so a few hours at hospital did wonders.

I got a distinction for my exam so I'm very pleased with that.

Mary - isn't it awful that hosties aren't helpful when you most need them? When we were kids, my brother and I always flew by ourselves and the hosties were fabulous and would pass us over to the next crew after we'd been fed sweets, played with and entertained completely. Mum and Dad could barely get a kiss or a wave goodbye as we charged off.

Your parents trip sounds great. How long were they away for?

Hi Vicki - why is your father babysitting instead of DH??? Time he grew up. Should you wait until you start with the new venture and see if there are any changes then?

:)

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - we are here for you my dear. Just writing it down can help, esp when we don't know you "in real life" - if we did we'd probably strangle your dh for being so silly. Glad you had a nice meal out with your Ma and ds1. Poop that your dh won't try anything different - Japanese can be quite like western food ie the way they do beef and if you like fried then tempura is your best friend (Anyone ever see Catherine Tate talking about Japanese - you know, battered veg) and I challenge any unadventurous eater to pass up butter chicken!! But I suppose you know all this and are tired of beating your head against a brick wall.
I second Cat's comment - wait til the child care starts up and you start earning again. Though it must seem like an eternity.
Cat - I really thought that sludge was just something you'd made up to cover a more technical term!! Glad though that the pain killers worked wonders for your Ma.
Yay for the distinction!!
Vicki - I love chinese food but I'm really fussy after living there. As a family we go to the good old cheap, cheerful and hopefully fast establishments!! Tonight we were back at the pub at the beach which was great. For the first time down there we ordered T his own meal - kids meals are free on a Friday night, and there's face painting so its just the best as far G is concerned - the face painting that is, G is yet to concern herself with the cost of her meals!! T and G both ate about the same amount of food - T is such a good eater at the moment, and boy does he let us know when he's hungry!! Our english houseguest was much impressed by it all - the beach was just beautiful and there was a big sea mist so the whole place just smelt so delicious. Can you tell I missed the place terribly? I was even contemplating buying a lottery ticket - thats the only way I can imagine affording living back there. Oh well, I had an ocean view once - at least I have the memory, as my old flatmate says!!
Enough on all that!
Vicki - hope things are so much better than you could hope for over the weekend!
Cat - have a great one too!!

[Tabby]

Cat: I should wait but all i feel is the over load before even starts and have waited soooo long for changes. he wont leave us regardless of outcome and IF did, ds1 is on standby to move in and cover rent etc with us. but I know wouldnt come to that. Am just playing it by ear for now :thumbsup:
Oh dh doesnt offer take K so he doesnt get asked anymore, every time did he get asked i get a look like " oh fine....if i have to" and he does nothing with her but sit and watch crap on telly while she plays in side! but must say this time he was still at work anyhow, mum likes to eat early and K does love time for Granddad cos he plays games, runs, hides, makes her laugh till shes exhausted..wish dh was like that :(

Glad mums feeling better and WELL DONE on the distinction! Sounds like a celebratory drink or 2 is in need tonight? hehe

Mary: Aww wow the dinner out by the beach sounds absolutely lovely!!! Yes, luckily ds1 is a huge food fanatic, japanese, indian etc so I get to experience most with him.

[Cathrine]

You pair are making me hungry!!!

You're right Mary, quite often all you need to try new food is have someone who knows you supervising what you order. I was stunned to hear a few years ago that the most popular food in England is curry! And last week we voted a lamb roast as our favourite - hahaha. I thought Australians would choose BBQ.

It's great that T has a good appetite. Most of my friends with babies and toddlers don't have any problems with feeding them, but one friend has a child as fussy as I was! How did I turn into someone who will eat just about anything and now is packing the weight to prove it - lol.

Hi Vicki - I'll have to forgo the wine at the moment. Technically from 2.00pm yesterday I am pregnant. We'll see if this time I can at least make to the pregnancy test.:)

Keep your chin up and ignore DH where possible. Did you tell Mary about his spectacular reason for not helping you - hahaha.

Any hoo, must scat and eat some more. Mum and I went out for lunch and after scoffing madly, we managed to walk about 30 feet before we stopped for coffee and cake!!! Didn't we waddle back to the car.

Cat
:)

[Tabby]

Oh Mary am sooo hoping this is it for you hunny!
Sticky bean vibes your way. When is test day??
have you been keeping up the acupuncture??

lol cant remeber if told here but Mary, we were arguing about how he doesnt do anything when I ask over and over and end up yelling..his response was " Seee??? This is why I dont do anything for you" i said "what does that mean? reply" because you yell and rant about it"
lol I just said oh my you do realise I would not be here ranting if you did the little things I asked within the first 20 times? " then I had to laugh, could not hold it in and he stormed off.
Its like a scale for me, ask nicely first 5 times, ask a little stronger next 5, then yell, then complete rant on my behalf in frustration and mental overload to having to do myself

[Tabby]

okay effing had it here.
The quit tablets am on have started to make me incredibly nauseous for about 2 hrs after i take one.
I laid bed, dd all over me, almost passing out with the feeling. He sat comp (beside bed) for another 10 mins before in end he says " come on K get out" of course she cried thinkn she was doing something wrong and refuse to budge from my side.
No amount of leading him/ telling him has worked
All he ever does is negative to her and nothing for me when I need him

[quitecontrary]

Cat - incredibly excited and anxious and everything else for you too - sticky sticky baby dust in truckloads for you!
I laughed at the thought of you and your Ma having huge lunch followed straight away by coffee and cake in the very next cafe!
Vicki - your dh sounds a little slow in the uptake. You must have the patience of a saint really.
We had a lovely day at my parents place today, they came back on Friday from their Tour of South East Asia. So it was good to have a Mum cooked meal for the first time since Christmas, and a catch up on their travellers tales, and share some of ours of course.
On the subject of food, we went out for Yum Cha for lunch yesterday with the kids, and it was wildly successful and such fun! The service was great (can sometimes be otherwise) perhaps because we had the two little ones. The suburb we went to had a street fair on to celebrate Chinese New Year - albeit a week early - so that was a bit of unexpected fun too.
G is back at preschool tomorrow, I am sure she is looking forward to it. Fingers crossed she rests during rest time and doesn't stand there screaming "I'm not tired" like she did on Tues apparently! I've been trying to get her to understand the meaning of quiet time, but we shall see!
Vicki - I hope your weekend went well, and that you didn't need to shout at your dh to get him to do stuff.
Cat - once again, I'm so excited for the prospect of things really working this time!! I didn't want to ask what was happening in that regard, so pleased you're back on the bandwagon!

[quitecontrary]

Oh Vicki - you posted whilst I was in the midst of writing my post. So sorry to hear you are feeling crook, and that your dh can't work out how to communicate with your daughter. Too sad really, for both of them. And you too for that matter.

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

I can't really say I'm excited because of past attempts and some weirdness with the embryos, but I'll wait and see. I have to go in for a progesterone test on Tuesday which is very early so their thinking I believe is to see if the levels are wrong early on and see what they can do.

The funniest thing is my new co-conspirator - Mum. We had lunch at my cousin's place today and she paved the way saying I had an upset stomach so I wasn't being offered alcohol. She's very cute.

Vicki - I am still seeing Naomi the Wonder Acupuncturist. She's great (bless you Mary - lol). Have you tried patches or the fake cigarettes? You look like a goose, but it helps the social aspect of doing something with your hands and also you still 'drag' the plastic cigarette - lol.

I think you should tell DH also known as Dic. Hea. that you gave him a chance at Christmas and he's stuffing it up a month later. You are far more patient than me.

Hi Mary - I was going to say that I thought your Chinese New Year was a little early. I love yum cha, so noisy and boisterous. The street fair sounds like fun. The only one I really go to is the Granny Smith Festival in Eastwood October - massive!

Never fear about asking me things - open book here!

Hope you're both well.

Cat
:)

[Tabby]

Cat, lol @ your conspirator Mum. Sneaky! How is she now, all good ?
To be perfectly honest, I would not disagree if anyone said that I have fallen out of love here. ..Too much disappointment, to much left alone, no support. Ive always believe you must keep that fire burning to some extent or it will go out, so just a matter of time now as I let my side burn down with being tired from being the only one working to keep it alight. ahh well.

FDC officer today, the family visit, where she talks to DH (home Mondays) and son to make sure they know the impact of it all and how to accept I cannnot be there for them during working hours etc. Reminders to keep safety issues at maximum at all times etc etc.

As I am not ttc anymore I have EVERYTHING crossed for you hun!!! (hugs)

Hi Mary, Sounds like a good weekend as always, hope Miss G accepts "quiet" time soon lol bless her xx

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - I'm not surprised you're feeling like that. How did the visit go today?

I thought you may have flicked the ttc idea at least for the moment. It sounds too tricky at home to be considering it now. I'll let you know how I go tomorrow.

c

[Tabby]

Cat: Good luck for tomorrow, hope the result is good, or can be fixed? Then when is test day??

Oh forgot say was on the champix so I dont think need anything else....yet LOL
Today is the actual quit day after 1 week on them..so far so good
A little moody but no more than usual and am craving here and there but passes quickly.

The visit was good BUT, much longer than anticipated to d day lol
Suppose be average 6 weeks to hear from License dept then when the ok i have wait another 2 weeks for local gov deed of contract to sign..so now I must put K in day care and head to work force for those 2 months, we cant keep heads above water that long! Im very sad over it, I had promised K (and my self ) that I would be a stay at home mum so even though I know she will love it I feel have let her and my self down
and on top that angry at DH, if he had any drive he would not be on same wage as over 2 years ago and we would not be in this position
oh wonder if thats quit mood all that rant lol sorry! but does feel good get it off chest

have a interview with a lady that went through training with me to leave K with :(
oh and have about 50 protocols and procedures to write up somewhere along the line

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Cat - that is lovely about your Mum conspiring for your healths sake! I am still crossing my fingers etc that you are growing a lovely healthy beautiful full-term baby!! Glad to hear you are still in the capable hands of Naomi and she works wonders for you!
Vicki - oh oh oh. I do so hope that your h works out that he needs to do something to keep his family together - and from what you have said I'd say almost anything would be better than his lack of effort right now. Don't beat yourself up about having to go back to paid employ for a few months - I can truthfully say that if you had been at home the whole time with K you would've probably sent her to preschool this year. You will have your fdc set up before too long!
Hope the Quit regime is working - its a hard addiction to beat.
AFU - all is fine. Toby is trying to eat his cot these days, which can't be too tasty. We got some plastic things to put over the top rails the other week, and he has worked out how to take them off so he is quite pleased with himself. I find myself melting when I get annoyed, the child is too too cute! Oh yeah, and he was moving furniture this morning from his cot, I could hear something thudding when he was meant to be sleeping - and it was the change table. He was leaning out of his cot doing his best to destroy the bedroom!!
Genevieve was a bit thingy about going to preschool - mainly the noise during rest time issue - this morning but she was fine when we got there, more than ready for me to leave!! She was better during rest time but as the teacher said, they are concentrating more on the kids that are crying at that time, so they will get her sorted before too long!! She was exhausted this afternoon! No ballet yet - maybe we'll start up again next week!!
Oh Vicki - please take care of yourself. You are in my thoughts x

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

So far, so good with the results. I've never been able to crack the minimum of 30 before, but today I scored an 88 so they don't want to see me for another week.

Vicki - I tried Champix and was going great guns, but had to stop when I started this little adventure, so keep up the good work.

I wouldn't worry about working for a bit to keep your head above water. The time will fly and Katie won't remember it in a short while.

Hi Mary - can you put something foul tasting on the 'edible cot'? There's an evil liquid people use to stop biting their fingernails - that might work - lol. What hours is G at kindy?

C
:)

[susieq1969]

:wave: Ladies

Would you mind if I joined your thread?

I'm 40 DP is 42 and DS is nearly 8 months.

First time older mum too

:)

[Cathrine]

Welcome Susie, how are you?

Cathrine
:)

[quitecontrary]

Please join us Susie - we'd love to have another "chat-er"!! I'm 41, mum of a 3 year old girl and an 11 month old cot munching boy!!
Cat - 88 whatevers sounds much better than 30 whatevers - I hope it augers well for this venture becoming something big!!
I have been thinking about stopbite on the cot - am hoping it loses its "flavour" for T before too long. I suppose if we have another bub the cot will get a "respray"! I know the cot will get used again by some little bub, even if its not one of mine!
Genevieve is in preschool two days a week from 9 til 2.30/3 - a bit of a long day for my little princess but she is loving it. Don't know whether I mentioned it here, but on day 2 she was already replying "Nothing" to the "What did you do today" question. I had to laugh!! She also told me yesterday that it was "Sooo long to the weekend"! when I told her that that was when our houseguest was returning.
Tomorrow I have both the kids booked into the creche in the morning so I can get back to my aqua classes. Went to weightwatchers tonight and the verdict was as bad as I thought it would be. So back with the program I am!!
It is late here so I suppose I should toddle off to bed - everyone else here is already asleep though I am sure T will awake once he realises I'm in the room.
Vicki - hope everything is okay.
Welcome again Susie - I'm looking forward to hearing your tales, esp about your beautiful son!!

[susieq1969]

hi Girls!

Well, Sam was born last June, much to everyone's surprise as I was always the child who would never have kids!!
Well I changed my mind, womans perogative and all that :laughing:

I'm 40 as said previously and DP is 42, 43 next month. Sam has changed our lives completely and I'm lovin it (well except the nights which have never been particulary good!)

i live in the Hunter area of NSW. We love it up here!

Sam is now nearly 8 months old and I have no idea where the time has gone. I'm currently on maternity leave due to go back in July, but we'll see! :)

I'm struggling at the moment with what to do during the awake times. Or should I say, what I should be doing? He plays by himself a lot, which is excellent! We do have interaction time, we sing songs and look at books, and sometimes he'll watch Baby Einstein which he loves!

But I feel I should be doing more???

We are all recovering from colds at the mo :(
It's been a miserable few days!

Sam also has his 2 bottom front teeth now, no sign of the top ones yet, but you can see them under the gums! Just hurry up and get here already!

He's down to 2 naps a day now of around 1.5 hours each. Which is good for him!

A little about me, I'm a bit of a Sci Fi geek :yes: and proud of it! :laughing: Love reading, just reading the True Blood books at the mo. Love travelling altho we haven't done much of that lately!

Hope to catch up with you all soon!

:hugs:

[Tabby]

Hi there Suzi and huge welcome!
Im 46 mother to 3, dd being the last at 3 years of age. ds1 and ds2 28 and 18 yrs of age.
Sounds to me like youve got it all covered re: interaction etc. Another thing I used do was cart dd around while did housework etc for more interaction, heh she used love being in the pram while cleaned, made beds etc quite happily gurgling away watching me, talking to me etc.

Cat: ohhhh sounds good hun! ( thought have no clue numbers lol) but got to be good huh?
When is test day then?? :thumbsup:

mary: never had a cot biter here so cant offer any advice sorry lol Its a teething thing isnt it?
Hope you find a solution soon, though normally not a big deal and grow out of eventually?

K is off to day care Monday, fellow carer took her in there and then :thumbsup:
so even if no job she can start, rebate covers most as J wage so low ends up costing me about 4.00 a day lol

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

The numbers are good, but I'm sitting here feeling like my periods are due, so if that's the case - there will be one cranky woman here tomorrow!

I applied for a position the other day and got a call this afternoon saying I have an interview on Tuesday. I don't expect to get it, but it will be good practice.

Vicki that's great news about Katie. I thought day care was something ridiculous like $90 a day! How are things at home?

Hi Susie, I'm not an expert, but I'd be enjoying your time while you can. I imagine when Sam is a toddler, he'll run you ragged. What sci fi do you like?

Hi Mary - I love that G is already 'kindy-weary'! I wouldn't worry about WW. You went so well last time and you're just over Christmas and a holiday. I forgot to ask before, how is your BIL?

Ciao for now
C
:)

[Tabby]

Cat: Still hopeful hun, not uncommon to feel like period due for first few weeks anyhow, so fingers crossed is what your feeling

Oh and got the day care price wrong, costs us 22per day, still good though and yes your right total cost is anything from 60-90 per day but child care rebate covers most for us which is good.

off to job hunt now ive had my 2nd coffee, good luck with your interview and hope your pleasanlty surprised with a yes! xx

[Cathrine]

Now I think it's psychosomatic! Coming back from a lovely lunch with a friend and start thinking about what will happen and bang - stomach pain again! lol

Still a bargain. I as stunned when I heard how much childcare is.

Can you go back to the curtain lady?

[quitecontrary]

Susie - good to hear more from you! Sam sounds like a total delight, even if he is providing round the clock entertainment! Toby is being (again) weaned off the overnight breastaurant - just as well as he is 11 months old now and far too big for that kind-of carry-on! Sounds like you are having a grand old time with him - I don't have much advice on how to keep them entertained - G was content with whatever was going on, and T has continuous entertainment with his big sis! We do get a bit of one-on-one time but not a lot.
Oh yeah, and if you were ever a StarGate fan - my aunty-cousin in Vancouver was the head makeup artist on that show. She was Richard Dean Anderson's artist of choice for many a year - MacGyver included! So thats about all I know about it though!!

Cat hope everything is "hanging in there". I so have positive positive positive thoughts on this one working for you. Oh yeah, and of course pre-period symptoms are just about the same as early pregnancy - which I'm sure you've read up on a million zillion times.
Oh yeah, and 'cause G is at a PreSchool, with school hours its $35 a day - but if you were working full time it would be a pain in the b, and not do-able at all. Like school - drop off between 9 and 9.30, pick up between 2.30 and 3.
Well, I am back on the program with ww - been tracking, and exercising. You are right Cat, its just a matter of getting back on track. My BIL is okay, he must be about halfway through his radiation therapy (can't remember what variety he is having) he is being treated every day which is very intensive, but from all reports he is as well as he could be, has very low blood pressure but has only had one day off work - and he's a fellow who is not adverse to taking leave.
Took the kids down to the Bay for a swim this morning with my parents, and it was great. Toby thinks he can swim already and was having such fun in the water, G of course is so water confident its amazing. I need to find lessons for both of them just to get him started properly and with her to improve her "style" - esp as she is enjoying the water again now!

[Tabby]

Cat: Ah prefer not to go back if could, its quite a distance now, trying to get closer to home if can.
Am holding thoughts here too for you and hope those pains are just all in the mind with tricks :thumbsup:

Ive only had 3 cigs today! Mind you was too bloody sick to move so helped. I cant take the tablets any more, way to sick and peeing every 15mins! Trust me to get into the 1% that get that! ah well, got patches so will go back to them and hope the meds have kick started me enough to continue

Mary: The swim sound fab. Wish we were closer to one. Hows miss G @ kindy now? all settled in i imagine
K is looking forward to going to "Nicoles" Monday, keeps saying " but Ive been waiting ALLLLL day to go" when i say not yet lol

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

A quick post as I've just collected a beer from the fridge and will digest the latest event. I've just done a pregnancy test (always rousing on Vicki for that) and it's a definitive no.

Disappointing as I have no bubsicles left and I don't think I want to go through the process again.

:)

[susieq1969]

Quitecontrary - I hate you...........:laughing::laughing::p:p
I am a HUGE SG1 fan, so sad when it ended, altho I must say, Michael Shanks is my favourite.......and I've met him and he's lovely, but I'm still jealous!! LOL

Cat - :hugs: To answer your question, I enjoy all sorts really, but my favourites are Smallville (not strictly scifi but close enough), SG1, Supernatural, oh and I love True Blood!!

Tabby - Good for you with the patches! Keep up the good work :)

Quite - Sorry to hear about your BIL. Hope he's ok with all the treatment

AFU- Well Sam was up 3 times last night and had a huge feed everytime??? Growth spurt maybe???? Driving me nuts it is! Don't know about everyone else, but I'm over this heat, it's supposed to hit about 38 here today!! ARGHHH!

[Tabby]

Cat: Is that a definite though so soon? Hunny so hope its just a late showing BFP still ((((hugs))))
When is the official office test?

Suzi: Sounds like a growth spurt yes lol luckily they dont last too long, hope hes sleeping longer soon for you.
Hope you manage to stay cool with another heat wave

slightly cooler here though horribly humid !
Off to the park early today before the slide gets too hot lol

[quitecontrary]

Cat - what are you doing taking home tests?? I thought they were as useless as a chocolate teapot for you and all those other hormones/etc you have racing around. Oh, and if the official test is a positve, rest assured that you wouldn't be the only one to have indulged in an alcoholic beverage or two whilst pg. My fingers are still crossed.
Vicki - hope the job hunt is quick and painless. Genevieve's been telling me all week that its "Sooo long til the weekend".
Susie - how funny you are a Stargate fan! There are many of you out there! My cousin-aunty (ie mum's cous, but Ma was an only child so her cousins rate big time for us) does the conventions when they're somewhere she wants a free ticket to. Didn't get on set for SG, but did for MacGyver way back in the 90's! I always feel like one of Marg's sisters "Mmm,MacGyver, Mmm Richard Dean Anderson" when I think about the whole thing - though he had little appeal for me at the time.

The kids are asleep here, and I am sitting under a fan wondering how on earth I am going to pull it together for Genevieve's birthday party afternoon tea tomorrow, its just too hot here to think straight.
Once they wake up I suppose I should pull myself together, and them for that matter, and get ready to go to my brother's birthday dinner at my parents place. I just can't stand the thought of moving. If I do have another baby I would so love to be due in winter time - would make a change!! And no, nothing to report in that regard, we're not even trying.
Cat - more details please.
hugs to all of you.

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - it is filthy here. Mary - did you get the storm?

I know I'm not supposed to test, but I had a spare one so... Test is Tuesday.

I'm babysitting for the weekend with a 9 year old. I've just seen the ads for Madagascar so I'm guessing what we'll be watching tomorrow night.

Hi Susie - A friend raves about True Blood so I've ordered to first season to have a look.

Hi Mary - how many children are you expecting tomorrow? If you want a winter baby, you'll have to start sidlng up to Al in Spring - lol.

Some promising for your BIL so far so fingers crossed!

Vicki - how are you feeling now?

Mary - how do you address a bishop - your grace?

:)

[Tabby]

Hi Ladies!

cat: Well still hopeful was too soon to test my dear and Tuesday brings good news! :thumbsup:
Things are okay, ds1 taking us beach tomorrow, K's first real time there , well shes been twice? But as a bub so wouldnt remember so for her will be a first heh. As i knew dh would not come, HATES beaches....not even willing sacrifice to see K's face..:rolleyes:
Keep a eye FB for pics, ds1 taking his camera and he takes some beautiful shots

Mary: all the best for todays celebrations hun, hope they go well and fun by all,which as sure will be so.

suzie: Hope the little one slept better for you last night

Nothing much here, just taking a break housework. Still a bit to do but out all day tomorrow and K off to day care Monday so i can go hand resume everywhere! means wont have much time then for it

happy weekend all xx

[Cathrine]

Mary and Vicki - you are in serious trouble. I'm babysitting a 10 year old who has not stopped talking since 2.00pm. Fortunately, she's just taken herself off to bed, I think she's worn out her voice...

[Tabby]

hahha Cat thats gold, Girls are so chatty arent they!! K is already showing the signs at 3! I shudder at 10 upwards lol
Hope you had a good night
Am off to bed early, want to wake early to get ds1 and head the beach before gets too hot so can stay a fair while

[Cathrine]

She did not draw breath from 2.00pm yesterday until midday today... I've gone deaf. How was the beach?

[quitecontrary]

Cat - too funny about Miss Have-a-Chat! Genevieve loves a chat, but she's not that bad! Though I can imagine there will be days when she doesn't draw breath!
We are fine, had a lovely day today! Dh gave me a voucher for a dayspa down the road here, and he got choccies and a plant. We spent the morning in the garden dodging the rain. Dh and our houseguest dug up the random sandstone paving near one of the sheds and got a whole heap of soil to fill it in, next step is some turf and we can completely reclaim what was a no-mans-land! So a house kind-of day but it was what we needed. Yesterday we had a little party to celebrate (belatedly) G's birthday, so much fun. A lot of last minute prep as it was toooooo hot to do anything here through the week. Family, friends - just lovely!
So, thats the latest from here!

[Tabby]

lol Cat! She sounds adorable...says she from a distance :) lol
Beach was glorious! and many plans for more, Ive forgotten how to live. Time to get back out there full of life to enjoy it all, looks like without Dh though, too much "energy" for him..
Made me wonder today, did we ever have much in common besides computer? I dont think so..

Mary: Aww how lovely of your dh. When are you off to the spa day? Only ever been once and was soooooo nice.

Am buggered, lol another shower needed to get all the sand out..only part I hate, then off to bed a early one. K off to 1st day day care and some serious job hunt and house clean tomorrow

xx

[Cathrine]

Oh Mary and Vicki - you have to put plans in place now for Genevieve and Katie - just in case!!! It was torture. And she was a sweetheart.

You both sound like you had lovely days and what a contrast - beach and rain dodging - lol.

I went out to buy some clothes (in the right size) for my interview and it's refreshing not to look like a disgruntled, escaping sausage, but do you think I could find a pair of navy shoes? If I want ridiculous, porn star, trashy shoes, I could have bought 20 of them. I'm getting old! - hahaha

:)

[Tabby]

lol Cat, sorry to read only the porn shoes available! hmm might get you the job? lol jk! xx

had a awesome day, K went to day care
I cleaned
I online job searched
I got an interview wednesday
I rested :)
was bliss and i wish I had done this sooner! She has a great day and so do I.

tomorrow is the interview right? Good luck!!!! :thumbsup:

[Cathrine]

Excellent news about the interview - is it close to home?

I've woken with period pains, slight evidence of them arriving and the runs. Also on the way to the clinic, I nearly threw up twice in the car (perfect spot in morning peak hour traffic) and do you think I could find a plastic bag in the car!!! I finally pulled out a little first aid kit I have in the glove box and that had some gloves in it, so if required, my aim would have to be pretty amazing - lol. I find out at 2.00pm...

:)

[Tabby]

umm Cat, not wanting to get your hopes up but nausea and runs?? you sure not related, as said before the cramps are not uncommon too
Well now am super hopeful thats what the nausea is
Will be waiting with fingers crossed xxx


yes 30mins away, which considering where we are on the out skirts thats a good travel time :)

[Tabby]

Cat: where are you darl'n? Hope your ok

I had ****ty news and good news today
****ty is landlord "thinking" of selling, so much for 2+ years she said here. Least if does ive got till Oct

good news: fdc license rang already!!! She was only asking where a certain paper was ( ended up was in there) and then said ill let you know lodgement is near! Only been 2 weeks! eek. anyhow should be done end week and letter to say so next week, then I put my ad paper to tell of my daycare and any objections then its their visit to tick me off about 2 weeks after, sooo cos they are moving quicker than anticipated I wont need go back to work, really not worth it as I need get rest of things done in time. keeping k the 2 weeks at day care for some me time, paid for anyhow heh

[Cathrine]

Thats excellent news about the daycare and don't worry about the house sale, she may not do it.

It's a no go here I'm afraid. Must have disappeared in the last day or so because of the symptoms and one of the hormones was still at a high level. Anyway, today I'm over the gagging and running to the loo.

I bought a lottery ticket yesterday (ha) which didn't win so I'm wondering if I'll have the same luck with the job. Sigh...

How things at home?
:)

[Tabby]

Oh cat sorry to read that. Are they sure, seeing as one the hormone levels still high how do they tell??

Stay positive hun, Am sure youll blitz the interview

Things are okay, K home wednesdays so not doing much at the moment but clean here and there and play as I have a stonker of a headache! dont usualy get so not sure why

Hope it goes well hun (hugs)

[quitecontrary]

Oh Catty cat cat - I am sorry to hear your news - I really thought this one would be a go-er for you. At least you aren't being crook anymore. Phhtpht to the lottery ticket, these things don't necessarily come in threes, you may well get the new job - I hope you do.
Aarrghh - I am sitting here with two children gated into the living room, feeling like my eyes are dropping out of my head. We have been trying to night wean Toby - who is far too big for this kind of carry-on, but he has had a cold the past two days so that's gone out the window.
Genevieve spent Monday in our local A & E being treated for a much milder dose of asthma - thank goodness she didn't have to stay in. So, we have had an ill child on our hands - well, two but Toby isn't on a medication regime.
To top it all off, yesterday morning I got a phone call from a good friend (actually one of my bridesmaids, but I did have 5 of them!!) to let me know that (a) one of our mutual friends had died and (b) the funeral was at 10am. So, luckily dh hadn't headed off to work yet so plans were quickly made - I got myself ready and over to the crematorium in time. It was very sad, the woman who died had been one of my best friends between 18 and 28. She had become an alcoholic in that time, and it became too hard to continue trusting her. The last time I'd seen her when I was pg with Genevieve, at another friend's mother's funeral. Thank goodness she had had a reconciliation with her sister - I was so glad to find that out.
So, my thoughts have been filled with those of my friend. I do hope she is truly at peace now.

[Cathrine]

Oh Mary - I'll stop carrying on about the ticket after the day you've had. How awful! It's wonderful that your friend made amends with her sister before she died. Having two sick kidlets can't be fun. Is G better? And what a guts you are having five bridesmaids - hahaha.

Hi Vicki - do you have the headache because of you not smoking?

I absolutely stuffed the first part of the interview, but recovered. I was so nervous to start with that I wasn't breathing properly and sounded like a telephone sex worker on speed (I speak quickly at the best of times) and it took 5 - 10 minutes to settle. What a loon !

:)

[Tabby]

Oh Dear Mary, What a day hun and so tired with sick little ones on top of it!! Massive hugs and hope things are brighter today and on for you.

Cat: you maybe right with the headaches..i imagine my body would be chucking a right tizz over this after so many years lol

Glad to read you recovered enough in the interview to end nicely
When do you hear?

[Cathrine]

I've heard from my referees that they were checked today, so I'm guessing tomorrow. AAGGHH

[susieq1969]

I've heard from my referees that they were checked today, so I'm guessing tomorrow. AAGGHH


Ooooooo that's a really good sign!! They don't normally contact referees unless they are interested!!! :fingerscrossed:

[Tabby]

I agree! looks good cat

[Cathrine]

AAAAGGGGGGHHHHHHHH I still haven't heard so as the day goes on I'm thinking no !!!

[Tabby]

Did you end up hearing Cat? Was it today they said would notify you?

Had a little good news, finally getting our bond back old place, not a lot cos giv housing and was 10 years ago but still well needed and good timing.
Going to cost me $160 for my ad in the paper for the day care!! The one you do to notify people of your intention and any objections etc

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - no I haven't so at least I've settled for the weekend - lol.

If your bond covers the $160 advertisement, that's great. Not so far away now is it - very exciting!

I love Katie's cup cake photo.
:)

[Tabby]

Cat: Did they say when they would notify by?
Will be fingers crossed for you till then

The bond 10 years ago gov housing was 484 lol
wonder what the interest on that was for 10 years?
So, i get a couple hundred left for other fdc stuff needed before their visit

heh yes cupcakes are so much more fun with her to help. Love her face on completion
Oh and her spoon tasting pic, was the first time she would try it! Always refused till then no matter how good I said it was

dh just heading to work and had massive blow up
Im really sick to death of his ALL negative comments to K. Its like he constantly picks on her
In 1 min he had 3 negatives, i said you never ever say well done K, good on you K etc. and those negative ones you choose to say are total bs! Over such silly little things shes made to feel shes bad.
I am so over this marriage

[Cathrine]

I think I turned 'hopefully by Friday' into definitely by Friday - lol.

I can't believe she was reluctant to lick the spoon!!! When my mother made cakes, there would be two little bods hovering to get our hands on the machine beaters to lick the life out of them!

He has to cut that out. He'll ruin her self esteem and you can't keep hammering a child with no effect. I'm not surprised you're over it. It will be good for both of you when things settle down.

What's on for the weekend?

Hi Susie, I've turned into Ms Immediate Gratification... if they checked my references on Thursday, I DEMAND a job offer on Friday - hahaha.

:)

[Tabby]

haha yeah I think she licked a choc one before and not keen so didnt want try again, every time asked she said no but this time I turned round and in her mouth it was with no looking back lol
Same here but being 8 years between me and my bro and sis I had no fight for spoon :P

Ah well hopefully its still yours, maybe took a bit get all looked at/ get back to you and the hopefully friday became Monday xx

Have I said lately how much I hate his family right now?
Off to the zoo for nephews 2nd bday
No invite, not even bypass me and invite K
sure hate me but how far does there hate go as to cut K out as well? Gosh what mean people they are, so self absorbed to not put it aside for even K obviously??
I blame sil and mil for this one. sil may have said didnt want me but hey! surely mil could have reminded her how it was right for K to ask....ah eff them, ive not heard from any of them for a month but i am really sick of this whole scenario and wish could get out now, its making me miserable. They keep making me feel like am nothing, or am totally to blame for all of this. Wish I was self sufficient now...

[susieq1969]

:hugs::hugs::hugs::hugs:

You sound like you are really going thru it Tabby.

Hugs for you both :hugs::hugs:

[Tabby]

Thanks Suzie!

Ah what hurts me can only make me stronger right

The weekend almost over and weve not heard from them again..dh said he did ring his dad other day so not like he doesnt get in touch and they can say well yous dont ring etc. Gosh if I go the whole week without a call my mum or actually mostly my dad rings asking if everything ok lol

K was a little unwell yesterday but seems fine now? she fell asleep for a nap so knew something was up. She woke with a temp and tummy pains, a nurofen and a few good farts later and she was feeling better, minus the little temp, slept well, woke fine! Though those farts are terrible!!!!!!!!!!!!! haha

How was your weekend?

[susieq1969]

Thanks Suzie!

Ah what hurts me can only make me stronger right

The weekend almost over and weve not heard from them again..dh said he did ring his dad other day so not like he doesnt get in touch and they can say well yous dont ring etc. Gosh if I go the whole week without a call my mum or actually mostly my dad rings asking if everything ok lol

K was a little unwell yesterday but seems fine now? she fell asleep for a nap so knew something was up. She woke with a temp and tummy pains, a nurofen and a few good farts later and she was feeling better, minus the little temp, slept well, woke fine! Though those farts are terrible!!!!!!!!!!!!! haha

How was your weekend?

Hang in there! Hopefully things will get beta! :hugs:

DP worked this weekend, he has a part time job at Gartelmanns Winery, (yep, cheap wine! LOL)

Yesterday we went out to lunch with a friend we haven't seen in a while, Sam has grown an awful lot since she last saw him! So it was nice.

Today we've just chilled out. Altho, Sam isn't a happy bunny today, those darn teeth!! Why can't they just come thru all at once????

We've got a wedding in Sydney in 2 weeks time, and it will be the first time I'm leaving Sam! We are staying with my Best Friend, and Sam is staying with her while we go. I'm not looking forward to leaving him. The wedding is at 4, right when he wakes up from his nap time, so I won't be there when he wakes up, I just hope he'll be ok. Mind you she has 2 adorable girls of her own so she's a pro! :)

On the plus side, the wedding is only a 5 minute drive away!! :yes:

Got any advice :laughing:

[Cathrine]

Vicki - you have the winners in the family department so try and ignore the evil ones. I know it's hard, but they are awful and just stress you.

Hi Susie, the little girls will probably keep him entertained and if there is high drama - lol - you're not far away. I'm a great believer is the medicine that drugs children - can't remember what it's called hahaha.

:)

[Tabby]

Oh lol @ the medicine Cat ..your incorrigible sometimes haha!
How was your weekend Missy???

Susie: Im sure Sam will be fine! As you says she pro and am sure two little girls? Aww Sam is going to be cherished and well looked after. Enjoy! Hard those first few times to leave but well worth it, youll have a fun well deserved time out.

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Vicki - arrgghhh - your in-laws don't deserve you. What a mean spirited bunch of people. I hear you on phoning your parents, I think I talk every day to my Ma. Dh is trying to call his sis and bro a bit more often - I just wish he'd do it once a week so they realise its okay for them to call us too.
Cat - you will get the phone call and get that job - they'll be wanting a telephone sex worker on speed I'm sure!
Susi - you will be right at your friend's wedding, Sam will be in good hands! Yay for your dp working at a winery! We'd be sunk completely, dh and I are rather too fond of the grape sometimes!
We had a fabulous weekend - talk about The Festival of the Anniversary. I do like milking an event for all its worth!! And its only 4 years since we got married, but this Tues will be the 5th of our meeting! So thats why I arranged the weekend away. We had a great old time, the hotel was lovely and the kids enjoyed themselves too. Lots of swimming in the hotel pool and suchlike. Dh and I had a big night out in Ettalong - the pub, a thai restaurant and back to the pub - and back to the hotel by 11! Lots of people watching at the pub, I think most of the local patrons had been there since 2pm so the antics were interesting. The thai restaurant was lovely, we sat outside on the upstairs verandah thinking this is the life!! The kids were relatively well behaved for my parents - who came along to do Sitting Duties for us! Today we went to Pearl Beach for a swim with my parents and a bit of a beach hang - dh and G made a lot of sand castles etc and we all had good swims. Even Toby came in the "surf" with us - its a very calm beach!!
Hope you are all ok!

[Cathrine]

Happy anniversary Mary !!! :skywriter:
Sounds like you had a lovely time and I love Pearl Beach, it's a gorgeous spot. Well done and congratulations!

Not exactly sure they want a fast talking sex worker. Did I mention there was a bishop on the panel - hahaha.

Hi Vicki - that would be my tactic!!!

:)

[Cathrine]

Mary, I have to go to a birthday party at Coalcliff. Will that take me along the new road you talked about?

[Tabby]

Mary: How lovely a time ! It sounded glorious, belated congrats on your anniversary hun.

Cat: Hope you hear today hun xx

I got my lodgement letter!!!
This means now I place my ad paper, send off proof and then wait for their call to come visit, soooo excited I even started a FB business page to keep everyone up to date and share it with me :thumbsup:

[Cathrine]

That's excellent Vicki! How many children can you have? I think I'll get a letter now instead of a call.

[Tabby]

Ah Cat sorry to read no call yet

7 in total, 3 full time, 4 before and after school care.

[Cathrine]

It turns out last week was a s**tful week. You will be run ragged!!!

[Tabby]

Aw dear, sorry to read, they must be idiots to pass you up and you wouldnt want work for them anyway :P
Chin up love (hugs) hope better things to come your way soon, you deserve them :hugs:

Just popped my ad in paper today to notify of intention for objections
so should hear from them very soon

[quitecontrary]

Cat - I second Vicki's words - good things are just around the corner for you!!
Vicki - Yay to the show truly being on the road!! How exciting when dreams become reality! You are so brave wanting to take on more kids - G and T are great but anymore right now at the same age and I think I'd be certifiable!
All is fine here. The anniversaries are over!! Thank goodness, we did a lot of celebrating and I think my braincells need a rest from all that champagne! Can't complain, it was a lot of fun.
Toby is learning how to blow kisses at the moment, which is a delight! Genevieve is enjoying preschool, it just about knocks her out for the rest of the week though, which has advantages and disadvantages! We are meant to be going to playgroup in the park today but it really depends on how the kids go in the next hour or so!
Hope you are all well.

[Tabby]

Mary: Ah yes have been told by few im mad? lol

Aww love the blow kisses from little ones! Actually I love all kisses from them. K is still very loving and kisses all the time, the wetter the better lol

inlaws called in last night, that was fun....
mil had laybyed gates and seat for me and now only she can pickup as in her name, her car was going be "full" and she wasnt budging on helping go out of her way but fil surprised me with saying they could go get saturday for me and drop off.. shes such a mean cow lately !

42 here today :(

[Cathrine]

42 degrees!!! I'd keep clear of mil as much as possible. She's a pain. A friend tells me her baby is blowing kisses. It just looks like an old person trying to keep their teeth in...

Hi Mary - has G made any special friends at kindy or does she just hang out with the crowd?

:)

[quitecontrary]

Vicki - 42 is toooo hot, even for Perth our Beautiful Perth! Hope you survived the day. Cat is right, steer clear of MIL - is she going through menopause? My ma went from "my mother is my best friend" to "where the @&## does she get off?", luckily she has settled a lot, but she can still be a bit left of centre with the things she says and does. Having said that, I still do have a good relationship with my Mum, and I know she makes a real effort with my sil (type - my bro's defacto).
Cat - I did laugh at the false teeth comment! Tobes is so new to the concept he was "blowing" them by patting his eye this evening - the kid is a bit behind the eight ball sometimes!!
We are in the midst of organising ie have just sent out the invites, to his first birthday party - so that is a bit of fun. Lord knows who will actually turn up, I'm sure we'll get some more replies before the actual day. This time I think I will try and get some cakes baked in advance - for G's bash I baked on the day as it was so hot in the lead up that I couldn't face the oven. Not a good plan really.
Our houseguest is back from his latest bush venture - its good to have him back for a few days.
Hope you're all well!

[Tabby]

Yes your both right I know, I had already started to stay clear of them. Hence why weeks and weeks can go by before I see them. have to tomorrow as they drop off my layby, but hopefully they wont stay long..maybe I can make plans to go out and cannot stay and chat..hehe
I forgot to mention their need to see K is obviously not much, hence why showed up a full hour after he bed time which they know is 730 always.
It saddens me so, specially when the day carer says how what a beautiful child she is, how shes absolutely wonderful to be around. ah well

Mary: lol I too laughed at the old person kisses
Hope the weather is more suited for baking closer to the day this time round.

I miss our family gatherings. I used to cater them often, but then the acceptances got less as they "had plans" or came late and left early offering no help inbetween lol
sorry, I do go on sometimes about it.

Did I tell you they all went zoo last weekend for sil's little one and we didnt even get invited??
since removed them ALL from FB so I dont read of it and what you dont know doesnt hurt right

Cat: Hope you have a good weekd darl. Is that smile back?

right, housework calls for my last day K in care

happy weekend lovies!
oh am beach again Sunday :P

[Cathrine]

When my mother went through menopause she turned into the Exorcist - complete with head spinning. That lasted a few years, but she's mostly back to normal now.

I'm off to a double baptism on Sunday and I'm buggered if I can find anything nice to buy for the children. I'll have to get cracking tomorrow and continue the search.

Mary, with my minimalist approach - I'd buy cup cakes - lol.
:)

[Cathrine]

I didn't get the job - swines!!!
:no:

[Tabby]

Poo to them Cat, their loss!!!

good luck with the present hunt, never easy


lol @ your mothers head spinning, glad she came out of that!
Im peri menopause and do have my moments so can fully understand though lol. Mind you im sure im okay unless you **** me off, then it seems 10fold to what used be like haha
Ive actually contemplated drugs for it, to stabalise my hormones but undecided if its just my unhappiness in my current situation that has me down or that has just escalated it so waiting to make my move and see if can find my happy self again

[Tabby]

dh is doing my head in!!! He works today and took my last $15 for fuel as he "forgot" ask boss for a fuel card....now we have nothing for bread, milk etc till Tuesday..This sort of thing is why I cant do this anymore, he doesnt take any responsibilies seriously..surely to make sure we his family are not without he should make sure he does what he needs to do
dh's forgetfulness has now cost us more money, again , as I will have to loan off ds1 while down there tomorrow to see us through..beach tomorrow with him, he pays for fuel and lunch though :)

oh and did i say the cars now uninsured cos hes not gotten phone to sort? I cant cos not in my name..
Its never ending

[Cathrine]

No wonder he's driving you mad. He's not a kid! I'd be waiting with a rolling pin for him when he gets home and follow him with it until he gets to the phone and organises the insurance.

The beach trip sounds lovely.

A bit of luck in the present department. The day boy 1 was born I was o/s and bought him a present which I promptly lost. I remembered it a few days ago and then realised I'll never find it because I haven't seen it since I got back. Lo and behold this morning - I found it. Boy No. 2 got a little bible - 20% off! Bibles on sale, who would have thought - lol. It looks very flash and was as cheap as chips. I'm very pleased with myself.

:)

[Tabby]

well done on the pressie find, a lost one and a discounted one!

Ah Ill fore go the rolling pin, might hit too hard lol

Im so very very bored, no cash and no fuel.

oh decided pool was better option tomorrow as forecasted strong winds , alright by me im happy long as water there :thumbsup:

inlaws expected sometime...no idea when, they never tell me lol but suppose be dropping off my layby of 2 baby gates and K's new booster seat

[quitecontrary]

Firstly Cat - booo to the job. Paid employ is highly overrated in my opinion!
Glad you found some christening gifts for the boys tomorrow - well done!
Vicki - far out, that h of yours has no b!@@dy idea. He sure hasn't worked out that he has responsibilities to his family. I suppose paying market rent has really made a difference to what's left over from his take home wage. Oh well, things will be soooo much better once your FDC gets underway. Sorry to hear you've been bored at home once again. At least it sounds like you've got a nice day organised tomorrow with your eldest son. He may be your boy but he sounds like he's twice the man of your husband.
We were meant to be having a quiet weekend this one. So today we went and had a swim at the beach with my parents and went back to their place for lunch (Mum managed between us ringing them at 9.45 and seeing if they'd like to have a swim with us, and meeting at us at the beach an hour later - to put an amazing chicken roast on, and have it ready for us by the time we got back to theirs, and we hadn't even made arrangements to have lunch with them). Then we drove back home in the mid afternoon, the kids had a quick nap and I bought a whole lot of plants at a garage sale two doors down. Then it was back in the car and into Chinatown to meet up for dinner with our houseguest, delicious chinese at our fave place, gelato from down the road, a pair of shoes for G from one of the factory shops, a drive out to Balmain to get a look at a different part of Sydney for the visitor (he's here from London) then home again a bit late for our kidlets but not that late really!!
So, yeah - another quiet Saturday!
Tomorrow the plan is the beach again I think! But washing and shopping also have to occur so perhaps it won't be quite such a busy day!
Hey Susi how are things with you??

[Tabby]

Mary: your day sounds absolutely wonderful! as always. mm yum chinese my fav
yes ds1 will make a wonderful husband to someone someday, hes a very gentle, smart and kind soul.
the saga continued after he got home with being 45 mins late meeting me at someones house, he finally rang to tell me was running late..well der?..plus a lot more but i really cant be bothered going into it lol its just way tooo draining lol

im off to watch a movie, a 50 says the ils show up soon as I get comfy? lol

[Cathrine]

I've turned into a kid. I'm sitting here still suffering from overeating from lunch. That and a couple of glasses of champagne have killed me completely.

Had a gorgeous day at a lovely restaurant by the water and the food was sensational. There was also the largest mud cake I have ever seen for a birthday treat and of course I had to sample it.

I totally agree Mary with your comments. It's time Vicki's DH grew up. Sounds like you had a lovely day yesterday, especially the impromptu roast - can't beat that.

Hi Vicki - did your ils turn up during the movie? lol.

:)

[Tabby]

lol Cat, Hope your feeling better today, and who can resist a mud cake?!!

Nope no ils and a no show as yet and now 11am Monday..
got dh to ring and " apparently" they will today some time.

Just removed all the craap up one side where un protected to the other side where gated off from little people.:thumbsup:
too hot already so showered and now will just potter round the house

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki, did they turn up? We're having very cool weather here at the moment. If this is any indication for the first few days of autumn, we'll have a very chilly winter.

:)

[Tabby]

Eventually yes Cat, I got busy installing the gates asap so didnt have to chit chat, i think they were offended cos didnt stay long lol now they know how it feels?
In a bit of a tizz atm trying to find the $500 for the well over due gas and elec :(
No way are they going to help as couldnt even lend dh a 20 when he asked..damn sis and bil bleeding them so much so when we do ask for a small loan we get told no now, even thought they know is such short term as the day care only weeks away :(
Its just taken soooo much longer than thought that now we are almost in financial ruin

[Cathrine]

Can you ring the gas company and ask for a little extension?

[Tabby]

It already was cat, got extended till the 22? or abouts..so now way past due
*pops back to land of of oblivious* lol
Im sure something will work out, allways does?

dh is driving me insane, today he mentions how his dad has loads wood planks/shelves etc up there that i could have used for the window barries as is just hoarded crap ...well done on telling me the night before Dad comes up and we go a salvage place to BUY it..*sigh*
Hes known for over a week the planned window fit day was wednesday and told a couple times over the last week

save me!!!!

[quitecontrary]

Hello my dears!
Thought I should pop in and see how you are going!
Am meant to be making cakes for Toby's birthday - that is his actual birthday which is tomorrow! We are going to playgroup in the morning (one cake) and most of my siblings are coming over tomorrow afternoon for a little Happy Birthday gathering, as opposed to the masses who are descending on Saturday afternoon for the big Party. Yes, and its getting on here, and yes, I am on the net, and having a beer. So I should stand up again soon I feel and get the show on the road.

Vicki - oh darling, things will get so much better so soon, you know it! Once you get your house completely shipshape it will be great. Yuck to bills. Thats one thing my dh took over before we got married - I am in the land of oblivion too, but I know that they are getting paid. It wasn't always the case when I was a singleton - I was often in a financial mess. Dh couldn't stand my blase attitude (even when I did have the money) so he does all our financial blah now.
Cat - how are you?? Did you go down to Coledale yet for that party - god, you mentioned that so long ago and could I answer your question?? It is down past that amazing road/bridge thing.
Well, we had a busy old day today! I took the kids off to the creche whilst I went to the gym, then we raced down to Story Time at the local library, which was the first time we've been this year. Poor old G was missing her cousin, as they used to go together, but now G goes to preschool on the days that A doesn't, so they don't do stuff together anymore. Bit of a shame, except that niece is a pain in the neck, so I'm not exactly missing her rude little bod around the place. After story time we got lunch from the bakery and had it in the park, then home to bed for two tired kidlets. This evening we ended up going to pick up my Mum from the hospital where dad was having a skincancer removed - his procedure was meant to be at 11 and ended up being at 5pm. We picked up dh from his work and all went out for dinner in chinatown at our fave place again! I could eat there every night!!
So - there you go! My day in a nutshell!
Oh, and Toby has one new tooth! Now a grand total of 7!

[Tabby]

Im terrible with finances and would gladly have handed mine over if for nothing else but the feeling of less worries on my shoulders.

wow 7 teeth!! Go Toby.
hope the smalll gathering went well and the big one tomorrow goes smoothly too.
Look forward to FB pics as always


Hey Cat, how are you love?

HI Susie, hope your well

happy weekend all, ds1 pickup later so adult company again for me, always does me well so looking forward to that :thumbsup:

oh and its 26 today!! slightly warmer rest with a 35 in there soon but way better finally

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

I'm well thanks, just back from a fun night with a girlfriend stuffing our faces and we saw Alice in Wonderland - highly recommended !

I'm going to have financial problems soon if I don't go back to work - lol.

Hi Mary - I haven't been to the Coledale party yet and you've just reminded me that I haven't RSVP'd yet either so I'd better get onto it tomorrow. It sounds good that G isn't hanging around the rude little pig - you can catch rudeness - lol. Your weekly activities make me tired just hearing about them. I don't know where you get the energy. Is your Dad OK?

Hi Vicki - well you'll have to give DH that he's consistent - hahaha. How are things there? Settled a little? Did you have a nice time with DS1? Glad to hear that the weather has cooled down.

I had dinner at the Entertainment Quarter tonight next door to the Mardi Gras Party - some interesting outfits to be sure - lol.

:)

[Tabby]

Cat. lol yes consistent alright.

oh hope to get to see Alice soon too! I just LOVE johnny depp. lol
your dinner sounds great, least you cant say there was nothing to look at. I saw some snippets on news lol


Have had a great day and night with ds1. Lucky he was here as dh isnt any company as always.
I think hes given up to, not even trying to get close, no attempting hold hands tv, cuddles for no reason, affection of any kind for weeks now. Guess it really is over now as the little we had left is now gone.

Am feeling rather over whelmed today, K has been so clingy! Its suffocating. even ds1 having hard time keeping her off me. Spose to be expected when am all shes got most days.

[Tabby]

Her clinginess was due to feeling unwell, shes a strong one so didnt realise was much ...but as I have woken with a head cold today I now understand and of course dh no help or understanding. Ended up growling at him to take K so I could lay down I feel so fluey. Why cannot i get through to him to be more understanding or caring :(

[quitecontrary]

Hello!
Vicki - crikey, Cat called it, your dh is consistent with his behaviour. Dare I say it but those apples don't fall too far from the tree when you look at his father and his behaviour. Sorry to hear you have been crook too, its no fun at all.
Cat - yay for dinner out next to Mardi Gras - would've been fun being around the midst of it!

We did have a busy weekend! Saturday was taken up with all things Party! Thank goodness we had done some prep during the week. The party went well, we had about 50 people here. I felt like I was run off my feet, and I suppose I was, but I did get to sit down a couple of times! Toby had a ball with all the friends here to play with him or should I just say follow him around!! Genevieve had a lovely time with all the kids - she was thoroughly exhausted by the end of it!

Yesterday we went to pick up a pair of sandels for dh and we both ended up with some others as well, and then we had chinese for lunch at a restaurant we hadn't tried before. They do chinese barbecue - just lamb on skewers but so so yummy. I am sure we will be going there again! We were hoping for a beach trip but it was so windy here that it had to be canned.
Genevieve is off at preschool, tired already but I know she will be having a great day. Toby is asleep - lucky boy - and I should get on with some things around the place I suppose.
Oh Cat - Dad is fine. You should see the "bolt" thing on the top of his head where they removed the "freckle" and did the skin graft - very unattractive. He has taken to wearing a hat the whole time whilst in company. He himself said he looked like someone out of the Addams Family!

I have to go down and get a dental xray done today - I have been putting it off for months, and having regular dental appts anyway. I think my dentist would like me to actually do what I've been asked for a change this week, as I have another appt with her tomorrow. G has her chest specialist appt too - so it will be a medical day for us.

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

It takes a little while to be really able to look at Johnny Depp's eyes. If you've seen the promotion, you'll know what I'm talking about - lol. The morning before I saw it, I read a review and the critic really slammed the movie. Good thing I don't pay attention to them because it was a wonderful.

Vicki - are you feeling any better? We were very impressed when we were going back to the car and my friend pointed out a couple of guys near us that 'glowed' - they had glitter all over them, very flash for a carpark.

Hi Mary - sounds like a very busy weekend as ususal. I'm surprised you got a chance to sit down at all with 50 people. I'm glad your father is well. My cousin had a graft done but unfortunately it was on her nose and the skin was a very different colour. I laughed at the Addams Family image.

:)

[Tabby]

Mary: I swear you wear me out just reading your weekends love
That chinese bbq place sounds divine!!
I do look forward to finances and different company ( one who enjoys going out) so we can enjoy life more too here
We are very close to the local vineyeards and the road is FULL of restaurants, cafes, choc and cheese factories and cannot wait to explore them all!!!

cat: oh never noticed the eyes so must pay attention next preview. Preferably am in the theater watching it if get the funds to go see a movie. by time get the fund I may just be too warn out and fall asleep at every given chance lol

Dads just been and fitted the last window, the big one. im down with flu and 75 yr old man carried it in while dh slept in....
ah well am very VERY lucky to have such a wonderful father whos always been there for me

[Tabby]

Just ended my marriage this morning, the last straw was his letting me still do everything yesterday while unwell, including lift that massive board. I may as well be a single mum again and get rid the 3rd child i seem to have claimed by marrying him
his response " ok" and walked away put ring in front of comp and say bye and went to work...

ah well least it was easy

Remind me to think with my head more than my heart if I decide to marry again lol

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki, I'm sorry to hear your news, but I can't really see it getting better. Have you thought about counselling or not keen to try?
:(

[Tabby]

Thanks xx

Im too tired from it all Cat. I shouldnt have to seek counseling for him to help me out a bit here and there, if not physically at least be there emotionally. Ive tried short of begging over and over.

Just rang centrelink to get some payment in between now and the opening of my fdc, wont be paid till after app friday week but its something

[quitecontrary]

Oh Vicki, I am sorry to hear that - and I can't really believe his response, or lack thereof. I somehow feel that that was the lull before the storm. If he was willing would you try to make a go of it again with him? And I think Cat is right, I think you do need some counselling. I know how happy you were to be marrying him, and how happy you have been together. I feel very sad hearing this news, even though it is not surprising. Please take care of yourself, and make sure you get some support for yourself and Katie.
Thinking of you x

[Cathrine]

Hi Vicki - was anything discussed last night?

[Tabby]

nope not a word uttered
He came home ate dinner, watched tv, I popped K to bed he went comp ( the norm )
the end
I wasnt chasing his conversation down

[Cathrine]

So what does he think is going to happen?

[Tabby]

Personally I think hes doing what he was raised to do, stick head up *** and hope it all sorts self out
Hes his family to a Tee

I was just thinking as im very sore today how a good man who still cared would offer me the bed.
I would take as he works and needs a good sleep but hey, offer would be nice right

Going to grab a mattress for the spare bed saturday hopefully
Ive woken to numb arms and legs which happens from that.

[Cathrine]

I wouldn't be kicked out of bed. If you can control yourself from thumpng him, I'd share it.
:)

[surprisebub]

Hello Tabby, Catherine and Quitecontrary and everyone else. I do apologise for not coming here sooner but my life hasn't been the best in the past 12 months with exception of course to the birth of my beautiful little girl Willow Antionette Katherine. Obviously don't know you all that well so didn't feel right mentioning everything that has been happening and can't really say what is happening out loud in a public forum.

Would like to try and come back into this group if possible, though i realise a lot of time has passed and a lot of things have and are happening. Did read about your situation Tabby and i am so sorry you are going through this.

Actually need to find the time to go back over the last few months posts to try and catch up, lets hope Willow co-operates lol.

Willow is a joy to be around and i am happy to say that my labour from first labour pain to her being here was 40 minutes and i was very lucky not to have her on the toilet (they are right when they say sitting on a toilet really helps with gravity lol). She was only tiny 6lb 15oz and 3 weeks early, and born with a mop of thick black hair (would explain the heartburn). She slept in 20 minute blocks for the first 2 days so i was a walking zombie. From 3 days old she started sleeping 7 - 9 hours at night and now around 10 - 11 hours, i am one lucky mum.

Well enough about Willow and i, hope to speak to you all soon.

Tania

P.S. Thank you all for the congratulations that you posted too after Izy told you all of Willow's arrival.

[quitecontrary]

Surprisebub - so glad to hear from you again!! How lovely your little one sounds! I had one of those "don't talk about it" wonderful sleepers with my dd, from the day we came home from hospital she slept through - I always gave her a dream feed but that was it.
I know it does seem like a three way conversation here, but please stick around and tell us more about things in FNQ.
Tabby - far out, kick the "man" out of the bedroom, you don't deserve to be sleeping on the floor or in with Katie or whatever. Or indeed just sleep in there with him, he doesn't have to have all the creature comforts to himself.
Everything is fine here. More thai takeaway for dinner after a trip out to Ikea with both the kids and our houseguest! Made arrangements for Mum and Dad to babysit on Saturday night so dh and I can have a night out in the city - need to book somewhere swish for dinner. It will be the anniversary of my mil dying so I think we need some time to spoil ourselves and think about the year. She would've loved the idea of us having a good time in her honour.
Tomorrow its the creche for the kids and the pool for me in the morning - so I suppose I should away to sleep.
Hope you're all okay.

[Tabby]

welcome back surprisebub!! Lovely to see your return and look forward to hearing loads about your beautiful bub Willow. beautiful name by the way :)

Mary: aww dinner sat night sounds lovely. Your mil must have been lovely, sounds like my mum, shes always saying things like make sure enjoy like when shes gone and not be sad for her etc.
enjoy tomorrow pool etc :)

Hey there cat! Whats weekend plans your way? Im taking K mums for the night sat, pity not closer we could have gone out for a drink or 3 :)
Not sure what will do...feeling rather lost that side of things. maybe ill just sleep? lol

DH has spoken to his father and is moving to the flat , ive asked him to stay and see us settled and he said probably??i said well if you go you have pay rent for your daughters sake and mine for that fact. so either way its sorted.
I also told him if he stays for bit Ill see him right with everything he needs etc. hes also told his mum to stay out of it which is good! lol
im quite sad tonight. not sure why. maybe as its more final now with moving, talking our finances?
ah well Ive decided to speak no more of it here cept to say hes gone and im now dating lol

Ive scored a mattress, to be honest, perfer not sleep in there and just let it be for now. Ill be back in there soon.

[quitecontrary]

Hugs to you Vicki - and we'll leave well enough alone I promise. Though there will be constant enquiries as to your well-being on all levels - I know you'd expect no less!
Just meant to be doing something else I suppose before getting the kids out the door. Had an earlier rise this morning - well, no actually, but Genevieve slept in and it felt so quiet and peaceful just being with dh and T - dh has a meeting so he had to get up early anyway and I'd promised him a lift to the station. Yes, life moves pretty fast around here eh?

[Tabby]

ah joy to enjoying the peaceful morning Mary
Im so tired as up 5am with not being able to sleep but was nice to just sit in quiet and watch the sun rise. Was very calming and peaceful

[Cathrine]

Hi Ladies,

Welcome back Tania and congratulations on Willow. Fantastic news about how well she sleeps. A girlfriend had a baby and at her mother's club morning teas once a week, she felt the daggers being drawn from the other mothers because her baby settled down in a week or two with massive sleeps at night. They were all struggling with fatigue.

Does a lot of hair mean hartburn?

Hi Vicki ...dating...

You're bound to feel low. What does Katie think about things - does she have an idea what's going on? At least he has the sense to keep his mother out of it. Chin up :)

Hi Mary - I can't believe it's been a year since your mil died. It has flown.

How did you find Ikea? I always have trouble parking there and the first time in the place, I got lost. I was going to buy a wardrobe, but was daunted by the massive storage area. I came home without the wardrobe, but tons of toys and junk nick knacks.

:)

[Tabby]

lol Cat, Ikea can be very over whelming, they are very smart to making you travel miles to get where need be and pick up objects would never thought of and like you even come out without , maybe its a ploy to get you back AGAIN lol

lol Dating, was jk, too hard to move on that quickly for me but am sure he will with no looking back by the way hes smiling today....
I dont think K is aware yet, as we seem be parting on very good terms ..for now? am sure she will be okay. Am also sure though that she feels the lessening of tension now so is much happier which is good. I seem to have cheered up 2 souls to be happier

[jariah4]

Hi girls,

Hope you remember me. Hi surprise bub I'm in FNQ too if you remember.

Hope everyone's well... I am currently 35 weeks and turn 46 very soon.

So hopefully all will go ok... a busy time here , will try to pop on as much as I can!:wave:

Tracey.

[surprisebub]

Hi Jariah, yes i remember you, how are things going. Wow 35 weeks, not long to go now, i turned 46 2 months before Willow was born lol. On another site i am on i am the oldest so far to give birth, my one claim to fame lol.

Thanks to everyone else for the warm welcome back, and doing my best to try and keep up or at least to post reguarly. Willow is sleeping at the moment so thought i would quickly pop on here and say hi to everyone while i can. Then off to sugar soap all the walls in this brothel of a house, as i need to get this place valued :no:
Plus this house is in desperate need of a complete clean out, i have been in hospital a few times in the last month so needless to say only surface cleaning has been done by the kids and when i say surface cleaning i mean just that surface cleaning lol, but they did their best whilst looking after Willow so am very proud of their effort :yelclap:.

Well will pop back later, hope everyone has an enjoyable day/weekend.

Tania