Tuesday 29 November 2011

Wordless Wednesday ~ Trooper Trek 'Perth to Sydney'

Whoa - remember I told you about the Storm Trooper and his Trek
So who did meet the very next day - My boys were fascinated by him. His website is www.troopertrek.com

'Does your head come off '    "How do you see?"
Here we snapped 5 huge trucks pass him in under 3 mins ...hmm

what is this ?







PS Sorry for those who tried to link up last week -A Blogger Hiccup  where I had a major meltdown disabled my blog /email / profile for most of the day. I couldn't even comment via my profile.Thanks for linking up and visiting other blogs !

NEWSFLASH - I saw on twitter the Stormtrooper Trooptrek is in KIMBA - the Halfway point across Australia Please go say hi on Facebook and encourage him !



Pinterest Make Me ~ Christmas Craft

I admit I don't possess crafty bones. My projects are usually a little wonky or go unfinished.

I like to be creative though. The boys love getting into mischief creative with craft , sticky tape, staples and glue. It's messy and fun play.

I just want to make Christmas fun for my little boys without an overload of commercialised decorations. Ok, I love some of them but I have a budget to stick to (next to nothing) .I want it to be fun for my boys, as long as I remember ...


We'll be right.

I am excited about Christmas but I do find it stressful. So, I am printing this out and framing it. I want to make my own subway art copy but that project is for another day.




Today I am joining in Pinterest make me Challenge. Ta da ...Disney Christmas Printable Train Craft.
We used an existing train track from Mr 18 and our farm animals to decorate it a little more.

Thanks Kate for the idea - on her 10 Free Printable ideas post.

* The cheeky Elve's on the shelf are also in the building - wait till you see what they get up to next week. Double Trouble !!






One more day of NaBloPomo ...how did you go.

PPS - I am getting ready for my 12 days Of Christmas giveaways. I hope you like them.

Monday 28 November 2011

How much water does it take to drown an infant ?

I feel very strongly about spreading this Community message.
Please spread the word - post this video on your blog or Facebook status



Sunday 27 November 2011

I've always loved - My Little Drummer boy Whoa - who hasn't recorded My little Drummer boys ?

Whoa - who hasn't recorded My little Drummer boys ?



John Denver's version is so graceful



Josh Groban




Justin Bieber



Johnny Cash




1970 Michael and the rest of the Jackson Five recorded



Bob Dylan


I like Faith Hill but couldn't embed it


Vienna Boys Choir is heavy but I like it. Neil Diamond - he has nailed it too.

What's your favourite version ?


What's else is on your play list today ?


Ps Try playing a few at once ...

Saturday 26 November 2011

My Christmas wish list ~ It's Chicken Feed

Is it just me - I am so not ready - are you ?

Only 28 days or 4 weeks till the man in the red suit arrives.
 
I don't have many gifts to buy. I just wish I had some ideas.

I was tagged by Two point five kids to share my Christmas wish list ... I loved her list.

Jingle, jangle, by dingo , dango ... well there  I am hopeless at making decisions is nothing I really need - I have an 'excess' amount of stuff already. Living in the caravan for 10 weeks made me realise it even more. 
I will satisfy my urge to buy something with these 5 unique Christmas gifts maybe from World Vision Gift Catalogue (so I won't lose the receipt)
  1. Pencils for school $5
  2. Chicken and Chicken feed $10
  3. A bag of seeds $10
  4. Fruit trees $ 35
  5. Mosquito net -repellant treated $15
I think these gifts can do more good than a $20 - 30 'gift' bought in a rush to be opened, eaten or if inedible often stuffed in a cupboard or re gifted. (I have a post in draft of what not to buy)

Though I hope our gifts to family are given and received in love more often it is what is expected rather honestly needed. I want to give something truly meaningful - like gifts of life ... with these special gifts we can celebrate the real meaning of Christmas and help some of the world's most vulnerable people. I know we lead a privileged life in our country.

It's doesn't take much to help them overcome a little of their poverty , take control of their future and make a practical response to global inequity.They are families just like us who every day truly struggle to live even a basic life, surviving on less than a $1 a day.

Gifts of life that support education, agriculture and the environment potentially last much longer; their magic has the power to last for years ...generating income and a future food supply

As a Christian I want my children to understand Christmas is about giving not just receiving. I will be asking them to help me choose too.

I won't tag anyone but feel free to leave your wish lists - it might give me some ideas. 

I wish I joined the Social Media Secret Santa list ...because chances are there will no surprises for me. Since I am on the naughty list big time.

Friday 25 November 2011

Saved by Air Wick Aqua Mist

We are slowly settling back a home routine after arriving home Tuesday.

I know chaos, as usual, reigns as we haven't even finished unpacking.

What did I expect to discover leaving our 18yr old son home alone for 10 weeks ????

...well I know I was surprised to find the house at least superficially clean.

Our house is still on the market for sale. The RE agent (a parent of teenagers) even commented how surprised he was to see an 18yr keep things tidy.

My husband did fly home for 6 days mid October , so he did make sure things were tidy then.

I know the Teen was good at covering up minor stuff but his 'smells' are everywhere. He can't hide them from my nose.

... unwashed small electric griller , musty dishwasher, scummy garbage bin, stale smells of a closed up house ( 4 days of rain), his stinky socks, jocks & sweaty work shirts in the bathroom (yes he knew we were due home so he left it for me ...well it has been raining too) , the toilets , the garage whiffing of cat litter and you get the picture .

Oh my senses were overwhelmed ...deep breaths not possible !

Thank goodness I was invited by Soup to participate in Air Wick Aqua Mist project. I received a bucket load enough to to share around with family & friends too.

I know it saved the stink day.

Air wick is so fresh and light that I used it in every room , experimenting with the fragrances - Magnolia and Cherry Blossom is my favourite, the men prefer non floral fragrance of Fresh waters. I even sprayed my car which has been locked up for over 2 months.

With three botanical inspired fragrances to choose from



Air Wick Aqua Mist Magnolia & Cherry Blossom
Air Wick Aqua Mist Wild Lavender & Mountain Breeze


Air Wick Aqua Mist Fresh Waters 


I soon had the house smelling like a fresh summer garden with a mountain breeze,  flowing with calm blue waters.

I know I am not a fan of fake heavily perfumed smells, it seriously makes me feel sick, but Air wick has nailed it with these subtle fresh, light aqua essences.

Personally, I prefer a spritzing a water based mist than blasting chemical propellants & aerosols into the air. The bottles are also environmentally friendly, being recyclable plastic.

Aqua essences create a fresh and welcoming atmosphere for visitors and potential buyers arriving (I wish). I know would just love to have a fresh baked cookies smell ...mmm

Air wick was also voted as the 2011 ‘Product of the Year’ for the Air Care Category in a survey of 5,000 consumers.

It is so versatile; safe enough for use on most fabrics in your home including your curtains, carpet and furniture upholstery (of course I know you will read the instructions before using on your silk sheets or other somethings).

 My friend has horses (outside) and pet mice and other animals (indoor cats & dogs) ...a bit of zoo in fact with chickens, ducks, rabbits, aviary birds and two caged canaries ! So she tested it on her shed , her car (horse feed smells) and her house interior. She gave it the thumbs up too.

Who What would you use Aqua Mist on ? 

What air freshener fragrance would you like to see smell  ?

PS: Keep your nose in the air because I have a $350 giveaway - 3 winners will win 1 prize each of $200, $100 & $50 thanks to Soup and Air Wick Aqua Mist ! I like their new ad too.

Thursday 24 November 2011

Santa 's Swarovski Crystal Garden at QVB

It is not often as an adult that the pure magic of a Christmas tree takes your breath away.

Yesterday, amidst the heart stopping drama of my blog being removed for no known reason , we had a date with Santa. It was unlike anything I've ever experienced.

My boys have always loved Santa though the expressions on their faces at six months were like "who is this big dude" and why is he dressed in a red jump suit.

This year got to whisper their wishes to a real 'white' bearded Santa Claus ...I think Santa got a shock to see kids throwing themselves at him bursting with excitement . This is our official photo.

Santa sits on his crystal encrusted throne with pure white Huskies at his feet . Above him are suspended crystals , he is surrounded by crystal flowers and butterflies.

Sam & Joel were dazzled by the Christmas tree too ... we just stopped Joel from trying to launch himself up the balustrade (and thank God not over it...) for a better look.
 


We were invited by One Green Bean to visit Santa Claus in his Swarovski Crystal Garden, on level 2 under the huge centre dome in the QVB. The Queen Victoria Building has been a famous Sydney icon since 1898 with a chequered history.

In recent years the entire building with it's elaborate Romanesque architecture, turrets and domes underwent significant restoration reopening in 1986. A further $48 million refurbishment was finally completed in 2009...It's stunning.

It is magnificent building, of unsurpassed grandeur . I still can't believe it is the first time Santa has made an appearance at QVB.The QVB was buzzing with Christmas shoppers, heavy laden with bags and crystal stars in their eyes.

The Swarovski Christmas Tree is a sight to behold. It soars up to the centre dome, spanning the three levels. At 24ft high , is draped with 144,000 Swarovski crystal ornaments and 60,000 twinkling lights, and a giant Swarovski crystal star atop. (Security are everywhere just in case you are wondering.)

 
 


 
Bathed in a soft, silvery light is the hand crafted crystal winter 'trellis' garden.  A blue fairy and Toy soldier offer candy canes and a chocolate ...they quickly put children at ease.


 
Nearby are real live reindeers which Sam & Joel got to feed . It's a wonderland that dazzles parents and children alike.

The QVC has really embraced Christmas magic with fairy lights adorning the balustrades and decorations everywhere.

We got a sneak preview, Santa Claus - officially arrives on Monday November 28th. So keep your eyes on the roof (of course) of the Queen Victoria Building. Santa will be waiting to see your kids every day up to (and including) Christmas Eve. You can get your Christmas shopping lists wrapped up at the same time as having a special family experience.

Please check the QVB website for more information about opening times and Santa visiting hours. QVB is located right near Town Hall station or the QVB has underground parking for 700 cars.

This is not a sponsored post , all opinions are my own . We were invited guests of One Green Bean and there was no obligation to blog about our Santa visit. 

Wednesday 23 November 2011

Wordless Wednesday ~ Frenchman Peak

can you see the walking specks ? - other walkers !



Looking towards Esperance


cave / tunnel at the top from the inside




summit view










Tuesday 22 November 2011

Home sweet Home

After almost 10 weeks away we arrived HOME at about 10pm.

Albeit temporarily because now we start our next adventure - a tree change.

print by JM Barclay


It rained most of the way driving but we had a good trip.
Mumma bear is a little stabby because someone has been sleeping in my bed.
It wasn't Goldilocks either.
Daddy bear changed the bed sheets so it's all good.
The house reeks of teenage boy trying to disguise wt? with air freshener smell.
It's not too untidy.
I am surprised.
The little drummer boys were so excited to see all their toys it was like Christmas. They are only just going to sleep now. They are still adjusting back to NSW and a permissive holiday bedtime.

The house seems so big after 10 weeks in a 20ft x 8ft caravan. It was a lovely home on wheels.

by Yellow Daddy

It's good to be home.

Monday 21 November 2011

Outside my window

Outside my window… It's raining :) , farmers love rain and the kids love mud pies.

I am thinking... that I need to clear my Google reader because it hasn't been eyeballed for 2 months. Of course I've been reading you !

I am thankful for My husband of 21yrs +

that we can love, laugh, forgive and move on ...
his enduring patience love. He also makes the best cup of tea.

I am wearing… jeans and hubby's t shirt (I'm lazy and most of mine are on the line wet)

I am remembering… all the things I must not forget to do

I am going… to do a photography course next year

I am currently reading… zip - I'm catching up on blogs !

I am hoping…I find a money tree growing at home.

On my mind …selling our home most likely we will be renting our house now !

Noticing that… I still have a lot of unpacking to do so we can clear out the caravan and re pack some stuff to go home.


Pondering … why I can't have it all - I've got no where to put it even if I did ! Also can anyone tell me the mystery of popcorn kernel.How do they pack a popcorn in.

From the kitchen…I've missed baking - I want to make Jamie Oliver's 30 min banoffee pie when I get home.

Around the house shed … constantly picking up with 5yr old twins who love mess  being creative
bags & dragging them everywhere filled with everything they pull from wardrobes/drawers & toy boxes.

One of my favorite things… uh oh I can't chose just 1 - my family, you & connecting with friends. Eating comes in a close second, followed by my computer & camera.

Sunday 20 November 2011

Celtic Thunder Sunday





I have to thank Tina to introducing me to the smooth voices of Celtic Thunder. I am hooked.

What's on your play list today ?

Saturday 19 November 2011

It's all in the timing

So we are almost back to where we started from.
Our Farm.
Not quite home but our home away from home.
We stopped in town to do some food shopping and fuel up.
The drummer boys had a play in the little park near the shopping centre while they (& Dad) waited for me.
Joel tells me as soon as we get in the car " I have a headache "
Uh oh ...that means puke !
We hear the tell tale cough and splutter.
I yell "Stop" !
I get the boy out. Quickly.
He coughs and pukes on the grass.
I clean the toy debris off the floor and find a lunchbox they have been using for play.
We drive off.
5 mins later it is needed.
Then again.
We continue drive to the farm it is 10-15 mins away.
Stopping at the farm gate Hubby empties the box ...the bumps you see.
We arrive and my poor little guy is still puking.
He has barely eaten in hours , save for a few chips at DH's cousin's house.
Good timing is all I can say.
He fell asleep after a few good pukes.

I wake him, to check him, after an hour (being a former Paediatric Nurse I am paranoid about checking and waking sick kids ...headaches & vomiting = meningitis ? )
He is a little better, cranky,
He is alert and he whinged when we brushed his teeth.
They still hurt.
He seems Okay again.
I hope we all he sleeps tonight.
It is good to be almost home.

This always makes me laugh



Friday 18 November 2011

Home Stretch

We are on the home stretch now .


I know we will cross the border into NSW later today.

I know 

...I will be glad to get home though we have had the best time in Western Australia. I am sad it has to end.

... we have missed our 18 yr old .Today Sam & Joel were drawing 'little guys' with sad, fretful faces because they have really missed him . I miss our extended family too ( for real ) though it doesn't seem like we have been away from them for 2 months.

...it was 39 degrees in Port Augusta today. I am glad we have a powered site tonight in Wilmington SA , the first time in a week. Three cheers for air conditioning, it's the first time we have needed it in weeks anyway.

...of all my modern conveniences I've missed my Internet the most (can you believe it ?)

...I have quite a few goodies and prizes waiting for me at home .
It will be like Christmas

What !

credit

...once we get home I'll still have 4 weeks to prepare for Christmas and how could I forget this

Once again we find ourselves enmeshed in the Holiday Season, that very special time of year when we join with our loved ones in sharing centuries-old traditions such as trying to find a parking space at the mall. We traditionally do this in my family by driving around the parking lot until we see a shopper emerge from the mall, then we follow her, in very much the same spirit as the Three Wise Men, who 2,000 years ago followed a star, week after week, until it led them to a parking space.~ Dave Barry
I know I am especially glad I have my Christmas Planner !

Are you playing Things I know?