The Up's and Down's of an Aussie Adventure

Mum and Dad's visit 2009 / 2010

2010-07-15T11:21:00.003+10:00

OK, a quick rundown of mum and dad’s visit, I had started a diary of when they were here, but lost it when my last computer died. When they arrived mid November we let them have a couple of days to get over the jet lag before getting into the usual summer antics.

First weekend was Sally Ann’s pottery party, which was nice for them to meet some old and some new faces, including Sally’s parents who were also here. Saturday was a trip down to Sorrento, then the Chinese for tea, Sunday was Jon’s birthday BBQ.

On the Wednesday I worked so mum and dad had a wander round the market in Mornington. Thursday Pauline, Gill and there UK visitors came round for a few drinks and a good laugh. Friday Jason worked from home, we picked up our Christmas lay by things from Target, then lunch out and then Justine, Kieran and boys for tea. Saturday was Christmas shopping in Frankston then a lovely lunch at Waves and Grumpys pizza for tea. Sunday was a very hot day, so we had a day by the pool and BBQ tea.

Thursday, Justine and Julie came round so we could agree the Christmas day menu over a few drinks of course. Saturday we had a trip to DFO to pick up some more Christmas bits for the kids. It was then onto Finnegan’s 4th birthday party for the afternoon, before Sallyanne’s Christmas party that night. Sunday was a quiet day after such a hectic previous day.

Tuesday 15th, we drove to Sorrento, got the Ferry across to Queenscliff then drove the Great Ocean Rd to Apollo Bay, stunning drive and scenery, Saw some amazing Koalas in the wild. Wednesday we went to see the 12 apostles, mum and dad didn’t come, dad wasn’t well. Thursday we set off on the drive back, the weather wasn’t great, dad still wasn’t good and both kids were sick in the car lol.

Friday the kids broke up for the 6 week summer holidays and Peppa called round for a coffee. Saturday 19th was Pauline’s 60th birthday party, that was great fun and such a good laugh, Saturday was more Christmas shopping. Monday 21st Mollie had her ears pierced, we had a drink with Pauline when we picked up my cake stand and then another one with Justine and Kieron when they dropped a lap top off for Jason to have a look at. Thursday was Christmas food shopping with Julie and Justine. 23rd was Kerrie’s for a Games night. Thursday was Christmas Eve and a trip to Audrey and Paul’s for a few drinks to start the festivities. During the day mum and I had prepared our bits for Christmas lunch, when Jason and I got home that night we got the presents ready for the following morning.

Christmas morning we spoke to Andrew on skype and he watched as we opened our presents while he watched. Then ready for Justine and Kieron and boys and Mark and Julie coming for Christmas lunch, we had a lovely day, we had all contributed to the cooking, and then after the cleaning and tidying up, we had a lovely meal then hit the swimming pool for lots of fun. In the evening, a few other friends arrived for a few more drinks. Boxing day we didn’t do a great deal, Justine and Kieron and the boys slept over and didn’t leave until mid afternoon. Sunday 27th was kids day at morning ton races, that was a lovely day and we met quite a few of our friends.

New years eve was party night at ours. The following week, we didn’t do a great deal, just relaxed and recovered really from all the activities over Christmas. Monday 11th Jason was back at work, but in the evening Justine and Kieran and her parents came round for a bbq, Wednesday we were at Pauline’s for a BBQ. Friday night mum, dad and I got the train into Melbourne and met Jason after work, we hit the Happy Hours on South Bank then had a meal, before getting the late train back home.

Sat 16th we had a run out over Red Hill and then a Chinese for tea, Sunday was St Kilda, although it was a very wet and windy day. Friday Jason and I went to look at a new car, then we had a meal at Platters and a few drinks in Main St. Sat 23rd was Justine’s pre Australia day BBQ, Sunday 24th was Lilac’s birthday BBQ. Tuesday 26th was Australia Day, we chose to give the festivities in Mornington a miss as it was just too hot. Thursday we picked up our new car a beautiful blue Toyota Kluger, she is LOVELY. Friday 29th was my birthday Jason and I had a romantic meal at Max’s at Red Hill, it was delicious, then Chinese for tea.

Sat 30th we had our next door and next door but one neighbours for a meal, Sunday was Maria and Jon’s BBQ, Monday out for curry and Tuesday 2nd Feb mum and dad left …… just reading through his and all the food we ate and parties we went to .. no wonder we all put on lots of weight lol

October - Novermber 2009 (yes we know we are behind)

2010-02-06T15:40:00.005+11:00

The last Friday in October I was at Kerrie’s for Twilight night, now I know you have the books in the UK and you really do have to read them, I wondered what the craze was, but they are great books, there are 4 in the series, the first one has already been made into a movie then second is being released later in November. Anyhow, we rented the DVD and watched it girls only, in her movie room it was great, lots of wine and Lesley even brought us all a chocolate bar.

We weren’t too late home as we had to be up early to get ready for our Halloween party, as we were up so early for a sat morning, we were able to speak to Suzy and Nick on Skype, hopefully they are looking at coming over in October next year. We had a great party, the kids really loved it, we did bobbing for apples, 2 pass the parcels, musical statues and sleeping logs, and all the kids went trick or treating. The kids dressed up and the adults should have, but it was a really hot day, in fact we had all the doors open and even the air conditioning on, it was that hot.

We should have been at the races on the Sunday, it was the peninsular cup, but by the time we had cleared up we couldn’t be bothered to get dressed up to go, also the weather was not great, it wasn’t raining, and it wasn’t that cold, but it was breezy. Hayley sent me a text and asked what we were up to, her and Paul, and the kids came for a Sunday lunch for a few hours.

Monday Jason worked from home and I ignored the phone, we dropped Tom at Tafe, then went to pick up one of Sam’s Christmas presents, he has asked for a basketball net. We were then able to sit in the garden for a few hours which was lovely, the garden is a real sun trap and as we are North facing we get lots of sunshine, well when it is sunny that it.

Tuesday was Melbourne cup day, which is a public holiday, we had a quiet day, we had a drive out then took the kids to the Chinese for tea and an early night ready for back to school and work on the Wednesday

I was working on the Wed through to Friday not impressed but nothing I can do really, we need the money and are still trying to save for when mum and dad are here.

Friday night I was at Lesley’s who has started a business selling jewellery and also homewares and as her home wares had just arrived she was showing them to see what we all thought and also in the hope that we would buy something. It was a very successful night for her.

Saturday was another murder mystery, again at Peppa and Owens as it costs them too much for a sitter, it was a good night, but not too late, poor Di was ill, so Mick had to take her home, he was the murderer, so it caused lots of confusion, ohh well we had great food, and good company and of course an opportunity to dress up. The day had also been really, really hot, so I think we were all exhausted and it was very humid going into the evening.

Sunday was a quiet day, it was the market, but we didn’t go, we had a day by the pool, which was just what we needed

I didn’t really work 9^th to the 13^th, I had to go in one afternoon for a course and also covered a few hours one morning while others were on a course, the weather was HOT, and I do not think I could have worked, without passing out. I did some jobs round the house, did some shopping and read while laid on the bed, with the blinds down to keep the sun out and the ceiling fan on to keep cool. Not sure how I am going to manage when the really hot weather really does arrive. We are having a heat wave and it is the warmest spring since the early 1900’s. Hope the good weather will continue for mum and dad but not quite as hot, late 20’s is just fine thanks, and I can’t believe I am saying that.

Friday night Justine and Lesley came round with the boys, who had a swim, we just threw some burgers and sausages on the BBQ and had a wine or 3 ..... bottles

Saturday morning we went to Bunning’s (B&Q .... exactly the same ) for a solar light for by the pool, we came away with some fruit trees, a Lemon tree, a lime tree and fig tree and also some herbs, Jason will learn not to insist I go to B&Q with him, Even in the heat we were busy, well Jason was, I supervised. We / he had to remove 2 plants to put the trees in and that took some doing, in fact most of Saturday with a few water breaks to try and re-hydrate he was sweating that much. We then went in the pool to cool down, before a BBQ tea,

Sunday morning Jason planted the new plants, they look great and we can see some new buds thankfully we have water tanks which means we can water them so they don’t die, in the current heat we will need to keep on top of them and can see us putting buckets in the showers to collect excess water very soon too. We then went to the beach taking Charlie with us, we had arranged to meet Lesley, Paul, Peppa a, Owen and kids while there, we had a lovely few hours and stayed until after 7, which was late enough when we had to get back to eat and get ready for school and work the following day

October 09

2009-10-25T20:19:00.007+11:00

Once again we have had a hectic few weeks, and no sign of any let up either, which is good, but we are ready for a rest too. The first weekend in October we had nothing planned, Ed and Kerrie called round Friday evening and had a few drinks with us which was very pleasant. On Saturday we needed to bomb so we took the kids into Frankston gave them $100.00 each and told them to spend, Mollie had a great time and came home with all sorts, a scooter, books, colouring books, crayons and some bratz things. The boys just headed straight to Game and that was it really, we then had burger king lunch which went down well. It was then a quiet afternoon just sitting and relaxing. Same for the Sunday, lots of relaxation it was bliss, before back to work on the Monday.

I wasn’t meant to be working but they rang at 7.10, as soon as the phone rang I knew who it was, I asked Tom to tell them I was taking Jason into Frankston, he did, but they left a message for me to ring back, I did at 7.45 and they still asked me to go in, how could I say no. Once in work that was it and I had shifts for the next couple of days, I refused to work on Thursday and Friday as I needed to do a big shop and start getting things ready for our housewarming party and Tom’s 18th party. Jason was also working from home and pained the chimney breast ... red, it looks fab and has to be seem to be appreciated.

I ended up working on Friday, they begged and I am no good when they do that, I have started to ignore the phone and my mobile if I think it is them. They are quite naughty though, even though I say on the roster that I am unavailable they still ring me and ask me to go in.

The 19th was a GREAT day, it was Audrey and Pauls one year anniversary treasure hunt and bbq in the park, we met at their house and had bucks fizz, then set off at 10 minute intervals, we were Team FluffyBunny, Scarlett chose the name, our team was Ed, Kerrie and Scally, Jason, Mollie and I. We had a great laugh and knew that we had done well, the hunt ended in the park where they did a sausage sizzle. It was a great laugh, the kids all played, and so did the blokes, it was quite a pleasant day weather wise and it was just nice to watch the world go by while sitting in the sun. Ohh and did I mention that we won, we knew we had done well and scored the most points.

Then it was back to our house, thankfully not everyone, Justine, Kieron and boys, Lesley, Paul and Charlie and us, it was a very pleasant evening we just threw some more sausages on the barbie and had a few more glasses of wine. On the Sunday it was the craft market, we met Peppa and Owen and wandered round with them, it was really lovely weather wise, after we left them it was into Mornington for the lads bus passes for the week, then back to sit by them pool. Ed called round as Scally wanted to play with Moo, he sat and had a beer with us, Moo and Scally played for a few hours then both Kerrie and Ed called back to pick her up, they had a few more beers with us and we then threw some bits on the barbie.

Once again I worked 4 out of the 5 days, not entirely happy about it, I only need to do 3 days, but feel guilty when I say no, I absolutely refused to work on the Friday and also made them make a note that I couldn’t do the Monday as it was the day after my son’s 18th birthday.

Friday, Jason worked from home and we had to get ready for the party the following day. Lesley and Kerrie also called round and had a couple of glasses of wine which was nice.

Saturday was the house warming and Tom’s 18th party, now the previous week at the park we were talked into having a theme and we agreed on an Hawaiian theme, but as I was at work all week, and really busy and the weather forecast changed I didn’t get chance to mention this theme to anyone else, so only the few that had been at the park the previous week knew about it and I also forgot to mention my lack of planning for a theme to them.

Audrey and Paul were the first to arrive, in Hawaiian shirts and sunnies, it was like ohh no, I apologised and explained my lack of planning, they were fine about it thankfully, a few others arrived then Justine and Kieron, Justine in a bikini and grass skirt, thankfully she also had a change of clothes. It was a great night, but hard work, Tom had some mates over who were staying, so we were keeping an eye on them, we were also trying to socialise with all our guests. We had a few drinks but not that many, and not as many as Tom, who was sick more than once, he will certainly remember his 18th birthday and definitely the hangover the following day. We were in bed just after 3 and spoke to mum and dad on skype.

The next morning we had to start clearing and washing Tom’s bedding, we didn’t get much done as I made breakfast for Tom’s mates, just after them had left Lesley and Paul arrived to pick up Charlie, Sunday was Mornington’s food and wine festival, the weather was lovely and a few of us were meeting up, so we left the clearing up and headed down into Main Street. We met Lesley and Paul at Harba’s and had something to eat with them, before hitting Main St and the wine stalls.

We were so drunk, I know I shouldn’t admit this, rather than buying just glasses of wine we were buying bottles, it was a great day and an amazing atmosphere, all the local vineyards were there, and we managed to sample a few between us. There was a great group, all the kids behaved and we had such a laugh. We then ended up back at Lesley and Pauls for a few more drinks, not that we needed any.

Monday neither Jason nor I worked, we weren’t fit, although I didn’t feel as bad as I thought I would, but then back to work on the Tuesday. I didn’t work on Friday and Jason worked from home, it was lovely weather wise and we were able to sit and enjoy the sun. Same on the Saturday, we just sat in the garden and the kids played in the pool, it was lovely. Saturday night Jason had Kieron and the boys coming over for pizza takeaway as I was going to a Breast Cancer charity evening with Audrey and Justine. Sunday we had bacon, eggs, and mushrooms cooked on the BBQ for brunch, then tandoori fish on the barbie for tea it was lovely. We had a quiet day as we are back to work on Monday to Thursday, I am not going to work on Friday and Jason is going to see if he can work from home again.

Moving and New House

2009-10-05T21:29:00.008+11:00

Well I worked on Monday the 14th, thankfully they rang on Sunday evening while we were on Skype with mum and dad. I much prefer knowing I have to get up rather than receiving a call at 5.30 asking of I can start at 7. I don’t do mornings really and this is definitely one of the downsides of casual work, ohh well!

Tuesday Jason worked from home, and we did more packing and sorting, I am not taking anything with me that we don’t need to, so are taking the opportunity to have a really good clear out while we are packing.

Wednesday and Thursday Jason was also at home which was good, we were waiting for a final document which we had to get back to the bank and in true Oz style there really was no rush what so ever, even though this document could hold up settlement, they just kept saying that as long as we got it back by Thursday everything will be fine, well they don’t know what plans we have for Thursday and also that it is over an hour to get into the city to get the form to them. They really didn’t make this week easy.

Wednesday evening was Sam’s parents evening ,he is doing well but with the usual could do better, needs to concentrate more and chat less, so we were pleased with that. When we arrived home we had the doc that needed to be signed and returned to the mortgage company the following day, great, so after the school run on Thursday morning we set off into the city, it took well over an hour and a half, the traffic was so busy, but we eventually parked up and went to the bank where we were meeting our financial advisor the docs were handed in, and we went and had a coffee with the FA and more insurance forms were completed.

Jason and I then left him and headed to a different part of the city for a quick lunch, we had Yum Cha, which is a Chinese lunch, we were taken to our table and just ordered soft drinks and were given Chinese tea, which is rather unusual, can’t say I like it, can’t say I don’t either. Anyhow, once you are seated there are servers going round with trolleys, up market, nott the dinner lady type ones and they are filled with little plates of food, they tell you what they have and you decide if you want that, or wait for the next trolley, it is quite bizarre, but really good, we had scallops and prawns, BBQ pork dumplings, chicken satay skewers, fish cakes, and pork and prawn roll, it was just over $40.00 for the pair of us including drinks, which is really good for the cbd.

Friday the kids all broke up from school, we had nothing much planned and ended up having a BBQ tea with Pep and Owen it was lovely and meant that it was one less meal we had to think about.

Saturday we were up and off early to buy our fridge / freezer, we have been looking at different makes and styles for weeks now and wanted one with an icemaker for those hot days and also one with a water dispenser. It really is great here, all the electrical and home stores are at the home maker locations where you can find all the good, shops. You start wherever and just work your way round, every store after the first one, you tell them what you want and the best price you have been given and each store beats the previous price. We also had a look at the furniture stores and saw some really, really good value leather sofas, that were too good to be true, but were good and didn’t purchase them .... today.

Then back home for more packing and dismantling and cleaning.

Monday morning we were up bright and early, Jason and I set off to pick up the hire van while the kids had toast, I had packed all the bowls. Jason dropped Mollie with Justine who was having her for the day. Although Mollie wanted to stay with us she really would have been more of a hindrance than a help. It was a lovely day and Justine had lots of things planned for them. Once back at the house, we started with the first load and as bedrooms were emptied I went in and wiped round and vacuumed and closed doors. Lesley and Kerrie both turned up and loaded their cars with things for us, which was a great help. We knew that the settlement meeting was set for 12 o clock and we were expecting a call at 12.30 to get the keys, by 12.20 I was climbing the walls and it was agreed that Jason and I would drive into Mornington in the hope that by the time they rang we would be part way there. They rang about 5 mins after setting off. It was such a relief and after parking I set of nearly running to get to the estate agents. It was then back to the rental, where we set of in convoy to the new house. The FA and the fridge were waiting for us, the delivery for the fridge couldn’t have been much better.

After Jason had carried me over the threshold, mayhem set it in. Diane arrived and we just set to putting boxes where they should be and emptying them. I am still having to look in more than one cupboard to find things and are still missing some things too, but am sure we will find them eventually.

Justine brought Mollie back at about 4 and she set to putting beds together and making them, in all honestly I am not sure what I did, I know I did a few trips back and forth to the rental to get pictures and some of the fragile things. I also went to the supermarket and bought lots of pizzas and frozen chips to feed the troops, we already had beer and wine so were OK in that department. We were more or less sorted by the time we ate, we even had the TV on the wall thanks to the blokes who had come here from work, Mic, Ed and Kieron.

Julie and Julie and a neighbour also called in, it was great, a really great evening.

Birthday Parties and Grand Final Day

We had lots of visitors that week, Hayley came, as did Peppa, Justine and Lesley came back as did Kerrie, on the Thursday we had top tint to put a frosting on the glass front double doors so we didn’t feel like we were living in a fish tank and on Friday morning we had our new leather sofas delivered, they really were too good to be true and Jason went and ordered them on Tuesday afternoon, they were soo good that Diane and Mic have also bought them.

Friday evening we had invited those who had helped with the move for drinks and a bit of supper, I just did Chilli and Macaroni cheese with ham and garlic bread for the kids. It was lovely, we had a great and a little bit of a drunken evening. The blokes played poker and we just chattered.

We must have been drunk, the following day was Kieron’s birthday and Paul had had his during the week and it was agreed we should all do something, also it was grand final day and the blokes wanted to watch that. We talked about going to the races, it is very local, they were showing the match on the big screen and it was also a race day, but the weather forecast was not great, so not such a good idea. We volunteered to have the party here and no-one talked us out of it. It wasn’t anything huge, just Lesley, Paul and Charlie, Kieron, Justine, Mitchal and Ryan, Audrey and Paul, Kerrie, Ed and Scarlet and us. Everyone brought food , there was soo much food, the kids wanted to go in the pool even though it was raining, eventually we agree to shut them up, it took longer to get ready to get into the pool than they stayed in, it was that cold. When it stopped raining Kieron got in, again not for very long. After the match and more food we played a game, will say no more and just let the pics speak for themselves.

Kids in School Hols

Sunday we were hungover and very tired, it wasn’t a late night probably got to bed just after 1, but with the stress of the week, Hayley and Paul called round so Paul could see the house and we had an hour with them before getting ready for back to work on the Monday.

I worked on Monday, Tuesday and Friday, Wednesday and Thursday I caught with the washing and did some shopping. Lesley called round which was nice and I called to see Pep too. The weather was good so I was able to sit in the sun in my lovely garden and read a magazine, I can’t remember the last time I did that.

Friday evening Kerrie and Ed came and had a couple of early drinks with us which was good, Jason worked from home today so we were able to do that. Saturday we took the kids shopping and gave each of them $100.00 to spend on whatever they wanted before going to KFC for lunch, we then sat in the garden before a BBQ tea. Sunday was very much like Saturday noon, we didn’t do a great deal other than sitting in the garden enjoying the sun.

1st to the 13th September 2009

2009-09-14T21:29:00.004+10:00

Murder Mystery - Till Death Do Us Part

Justine's, First BBQ of the Season

Quick rundown of the first couple of weeks In September, we have been busy socialising and also very buys packing ready for the move, we are now on countdown with only 7 days to go till the big day.

In between working and packing, I have had lunch with Peppa, Diane, Kerrie and Lesley at Pep’s house, I then did lunch at Peppa’s house for Lesley, Kerrie, Peppa and me. We also had a murder mystery night at Peppa and Owen’s house which was hilarious and another one is in order when we have moved, it was such a laugh. The Sunday after the party was really pleasant weather wise so we walked with Buster to Peppa and Owen’s to pick up the car and agreed to have a BBQ the following Sunday at their house. Jason and I then had a drive out to Red Hill and had a coffee and sandwich, then back home to get ready for Monday and back to school. As it was also father’s day we took the kids into Mornington to Sun and Mei for Chinese, it was delicious.

On the Monday I didn’t work and had made arrangements to meet Claire in Mornington for lunch, it was lovely we sat outside in the sun and had a good catch up, it has been ages since I last saw her. I then worked Tue, Wed and Thur, all long shifts 7.00 till 3.15, I was shattered by the time we got to Friday it has to be said.

Friday was great, Lesley took me for lunch having won $88.00 on the lottery, we went to Harba and again sat in the sun, it was lovely, I was a good girl and just had half a glass of wine, Jules met us and we had a good chat, then it was off on the school run, before back to Lesley’s to meet up with Diane, Kerrie, Justine, Peppa and Jules. I didn’t drink as I knew I had to pick Jason up and knew he was going to be late, Sam was also going to boxing for the first time with Charlie and Jamie. I picked Jason up at 6.30 and got back to Lesley’s just before 7.00 to get Sam. But Sam had been invited to stay with Charlie so I brought him home for a quick shower and change before dropping him back, I left Jason at Lesley’s as Kieran and Ed had arrived and were having a beer with Paul. We had a couple of drinks, then home to bed. We couldn’t be late or drunk, we had Mollie with us, Tom was babysitting for Hayley, but we also had packing to do, before going to Justine’s BBQ on the Saturday.

Saturday was a wonderful day too, Audrey and Paul popped in to Justine’s, Julie and Mark were there, they were celebrating as Julie had passed her citizenship test that morning, Kerrie and Ed and Diane, Mic was working a late shift. Tara and Josh called in much later, the BBQ started at 1 and apparently we got home about 11. I blame the woo woo’s, ohh and the cider, and the wine and whatever else I drank.

Sunday I was not great, Jason got up and left me in bed thankfully, Peppa’s BBQ was from 2.30 and we arrived at 3.15, I was still hung over but managed to drink 2 glasses of shandy and 2 glasses of wine, but that was my lot. I ate lots though, it was lovely and did make me feel a little better, but I was so tired and just needed my bed. It was the usual crew, Julie and Mark, Justine and Kieron, Diane and Mic, Lisa and Gene, Lesley and Paul and of course Peppa and Owen. Weather wise it was lovely, a little windy but very pleasant. We weren’t late home, after skype with mum and dad it was off to bed for me ready for back to work today.

August

2009-08-31T20:30:00.004+10:00

Sam at Justine's party

Jason and Kieron at Justines party

Mol at Justines party

Mollie Birthday cake

Mollie Birthday

Paul's 40th

Waves in Frankston

Platters

At Paul's 40th

At Justines party

Justines party

Well it’s been a busy month, with one or two changes, I think I have previously mentioned that we are now Permanent Residents, which is great news and we are still really pleased, we also spent a few days celebrating, with a meal at Platters on Main Street, which was lovely, Jason and I went to Sun and Mei, which is the best Chinese in Mornington and also Waves in Frankston, where we sat on the balcony in the sun and watched the world go by.

After a few weeks of really crap rosters with the Shire, which meant I couldn’t make any plans, I didn’t know what I was doing the following week, until I got the roster on Friday afternoon and the fact that I signed up for a 20 hour week part time job, thinking I would have some me and spare time and being very wrong about that assumption, I decided enough was enough and resigned. I picked up my roster on Thursday, I was down for nearly 25 hours, starting anywhere from 8.30 and finishing at 4.30, the Friday was unbelievable, I was working and being paid for 3.5 hours in the day, I was leaving home at 8.30 to get to the first job at 8.45 but wasn’t actually finishing the last job till 4.30 and having huge gaps in between jobs, but not big enough gaps that I could do a great deal. During one of the gaps, I called in at Domain and asked if they would have me back, naturally they were delighted to have me back, so I finished with the Shire on Friday 7th and started back at Domain the following Monday, I am only casual, which is my choice, as I get paid more but more importantly I chose when I want to work and so far I could have worked every day, but am trying to only do about 3 days a week.

Socially it’s been busy as usual, Tom had a L.A.N party where he had his mates round and they brought their X Box games and all played against each other, Justine had a party to introduce us all to her sister and family, as usual it was a great night, we have had a few drinks with Mic and Di, Peppa had a jewellery party, Jason and I had a few drinks one day when he worked from home at Harba, the weather was lovely and we were able to sit outside. We went to the market one Sunday, bought towels for the new house, we started packing for the move, had a few takeaways, Hayley cooked for us a couple of times which was lovely.

The 29th was Mollies birthday, she had a bowling party then to an all you can eat place, we then came home for the cake, she had great fun and her friends enjoyed themselves, Saturday night was Paul’s 40th birthday party, again it was a really good night.

And that’s a rundown of August, we are now on countdown to move day on the 21st September

Permanent Residency

2009-08-03T22:53:00.001+10:00

Well after a few weeks of hell and I mean HELL we now have permanent residency. Our application went to immigration on Friday 31^st July, late afternoon and we received an acknowledgment just after 4.30, and received our acceptance from immigration just after 2 on Monday 3^rd August (today), so had it not been for the weekend it would have been less than 24 hours, which is GREAT.

We didn’t think it would be that simple, we had a couple of issues with my and Tom’s medicals, which resulted in a number of extra tests, at a cost, of course, but we thought that the visa would be a lot longer than it has been.

We are just trying to process it all, you know the ... have they made a mistake and tell us tomorrow that the email should have gone to someone else, that is has happened too quickly, that they haven’t really looked at the application, in all honesty it took us a good couple of months to pull everything together, they know all immediate and not quite immediate family members, they have our previous divorce papers, they know all and I mean ALL about our medical history , about Tom, and Mark, so to process it so quickly, part of me thinks they haven’t looked at it properly, so part of me wants to complain and say it should have taken them longer, but then again no ..... just thank you for the visa. Emotions are all over the place at the moment, cannot really explain how we feel, just strange

End Of July

2009-08-01T12:58:00.007+10:00

Well the kids were back to school on the 13th July, think they were as relieved as much as I was. I hadn’t taken any time off work, and in true work style they gave me lots of extra hours, which meant the kids were here with Tom, which is OK and Tom is more than capable but they couldn’t really do anything and were going stir crazy with boredom.

14th I got a text from the lovely Maria asking if I wanted to buy 7 free range chickens from her for $30, chicken is really expensive over here and very small, Maria’s hubby Jon works for Ingham’s chickens, and they can buy surplus stock every now and again and he had bought a load of chickens. After getting Jason from Frankston we called round at Maria and Jon’s to pick up the chickens, big mistake, they had just finished eating and asked us to join them for a glass of wine, thankfully it was Tuesday night and Jason was playing football and could only have 1 glass. Jon just kept filling my and Maria’s glasses, we got home after 8, don’t ask specifics, I don’t remember, I fell through the door and went to bed. Jason fed the kids before going to football. They always say that impromptu nights are the best and this really was one of those nights. We had a lovely hour with them and a good laugh as usual, although I did regret it the following day.

Thursday the 16th was Hayley and Pauls citizenship ceremony, Jason and I were babysitting for Millie and Carter for them, they were then picking up a Chinese takeaway and we were going to have a couple of celebratory drinks with them. It was a lovely evening, the kids were well behaved as usual, and Jason even got them to go to bed before H and Paul were home.

Friday 17th, Morgan, Mollies school friend was coming for tea was, she was lovely and I didn’t know they were here apart from when it came to meal times. Her mum came and picked her up at 7 and didn’t leave here until nearly 9, she had a glass of red wine with us and we had a good chat, she was really lovely and asked us lots of questions, that’s one thing I have noticed about the Ozzies they do like to know what you do and how you have managed to get here.

Saturday 18th was Hayley and Pauls citizenship party, as most of their friends have young children it started at 3 in the afternoon, it was a lovely day, we met up with some people we had already met and also made some new friends which was lovely. As usual we were the last to leave the party.

On Sunday we did some more packing ready for the move, then we called round at Peppa and Owens and had a Sunday drink and a natter with them, it’s always lovely to catch up with them, but with the hours and times I have been working, just don’t get round as often as I would like.

As is usually the norm and you may have gathered we don’t really do a great deal midweek, well we try not to, Jason is up early for work and I am not enjoying my new job with the Shire so am finding it a strain and quite hard work, without having a hangover or being too tired to have to deal with too.

Friday 24th was a busy day, we were having another viewing of the house, and still loved it as much as we did when we put in the offer, Jason thought it was smaller than he remembered, but it was fine. We had invited Justine, Kieron and boys over for supper, the kids had prawn cocktail, chicken nachos and cheesy potato skins, we had prawn and avocado salad with aioli, then lamb shanks braised in red wine, garlic, onions, rosemary and thyme, creamy pureed potato and broccolini, Justine made cheesecake for dessert and it was delicious. While Justine and I chattered, Jason and Kieron had a game of golf on the Wii, then we all started playing poker, not such a good idea, 8 bottles of wine later, they left at 3.45 in the morning.

It was a great night, but not so great when the alarm went off on the 25th so that I could cook, a turkey, 2 chickens, sausage meat and stuffing balls, pigs in blankets, chocolate muffins, and chocolate pikelets, thankfully I had made the white chocolate and cointreau orange mousse on Friday and it was chilling in the freezer, this was all in preparation for our Christmas in July celebrations. I had lots of timers set on my mobile and kept going back to bed to catnap in between. We had said we would be at Peppa and Owens at 2, we eventually got there at 2.45 so not that late. It was a great day, with Lesley, Paul and Charlie, Kerrie, Eddie and Scarlett, and Diane, Mic and Seamus as well at all Pep and Owen’s kids. We had such a laugh, we played a few drinking games and also Cranium, and had lots to drink too. The food was fantastic, we had all made loads, Kerrie did Prawn cocktail starter, then we had Turkey, chicken, Pork, Beef, Sprouts, 2 different types of carrots roast potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing as well as the things I mentioned above. Lots of desserts too, we really weren’t short of food.

Sunday was our Second Christmas In July with Hayley, Paul, Millie and Carter and Rozza, Andy, James and Emma, I was on starter duty, I wasn’t sure what to do, but had already decided that anything that didn’t need cooking was probably a good idea, it was a tossup between Prawn cocktail, pate or Antipasto, I couldn’t decide between these, and did all three. It was a lovely day, we knew we wouldn’t be too late as Hayley and Paul and Rozza and Andy have young kids. We had a lovely afternoon, Hayley did soooo much food, with Turkey and Pork and every type of veg you can think of. Rozza made the most delicious Christmas pudding and a pavlova. We had a few drinks with them, but not that much, and nothing at all when we got home, we were really good, in fact I think we’d had too much to drink all weekend and just didn’t want anymore.

Then back to work for the week, it was quiet as usual, we were waiting for Jason and My police checks to come back, we have had Tom’s over a week, but apparently Jason and I have a popular surname which is why ours took longer, we eventually got them on Thursday, which meant that we could give them to Ernst and Young and they could pass our visa application to Immigration. We still hadn’t received Tom’s medical’s back, but had been told that was Ok, as it would be on the system and immigration would be able to access the information they needed.

I wasn’t happy on Thursday when I received my work roster for the following week. I used to work at Domain, 3 days one week and 4 days the following week, from 7 in the morning until 1.30 as a patient care assistant, I did love the job, but once Sam started Mt Eliza getting Moo to school club for 7 each morning was not ideal. So I went to the local council as a personal carer and home help, working 20 hours over 5 days. Ideal you would think, that’s 4 hours a day, hum if I am lucky, should be school hours, but wasn’t, so I was having to pay for child care at the beginning and end of the day, I had days with huge gaps between jobs, so would start at 8.15 and not finish till 4.15. the first week in Augusts roster was just stupid, I get no time at all, I can’t remember the last time we did a proper food shop because we don’t have the time, I don’t get to see anyone apart from weekends, not what I moved here for, so I resigned. It was like a huge weight being lifted from my shoulders, not only did I not like the hours, but the job itself was not great, the personal care side was good, showering and dressing people, taking them to the hairdressers and shopping, respite care etc, but the home help was dreadful, they sent us into homes I wouldn’t let the dog live in, and expected us to clean them, I won’t go into the stuff I have been expected to do, it is too grose. I am hoping that Domain will have me back, so will be speaking to them next week, if not I will join an agency and will get work from that. Ok we are back to it not being ideal for Mollie, but when we move one of my new neighbours is a nurse and she had already said that she might need help picking her kids from school well she can take Moo to school for me and I will reciprocate when it comes to home time.

Friday was a busy day, I resigned and it felt sooo good, really, really good, I cannot tell you have much I hated that job, after work I called at Diane’s it was her birthday, I had missed her lunch as I was at work but called in to give her, her present. She was very good and gave me tablets as I couldn’t move my neck, I had hurt it earlier in the week and had suffered back ache all well, but had done something again, at some point on Friday. Jason rang when I left Di’s to tell me that our Permanent residency application was with immigration, finally which was great news and we had a meeting on Tuesday with our financial advisor to prepare our mortgage application. All good.

First Couple Of Weeks in July

2009-07-10T22:16:00.007+10:00

Well it has to be said we have had yet another very hectic couple of weeks, we are currently just wondering when things will lull and we can have a rest.

We have been busy sorting everything to rent out the house, changing the mortgage, insurance, mail re-direction, tenancy agreement, inventory (this was from the pictures we have of the house and dad filling in the bits we had missed) getting an invoice and anything else I may have missed. It has been really busy as we wanted to make sure that everything was done properly. Mum and dad have been great, poor dad cleaned the house from top to bottom for us and I know that’s not an easy task, it’s not a small house, this was after he had cleared out everything we had left to try and make the house look lived in from a distance. But it’s all sorted now and we have the first 2 months rent and the bond sitting in our UK bank account.

Also we have been getting the paperwork together for the visa application and in true E&Y style, we think we are nearly there and they ask for something else they had previously forgot to mention we need, so this week we have had to apply for Australian police checks!, ohh and more paperwork from Tom’s dad saying he is happy for Tom to be included on the visa application.

In between all the paperwork we have managed a couple of lovely nights out, we are being very careful what we spend due to the visa and also the move, so we are declining any proper nights out which will cost us, we are back to living on a tight budget to ensure that we are Ok when it comes to the move.

On the 1st we were at Julie and Wills for drinks, they will be our next door but one neighbours and are a lovely couple, I have always got on really well with Julie and never really got to see her quite as much as I would have liked. We had a great night with them, and we cannot wait to move into the new house, Julie has said the neighbours are all lovely and like a drink, so we will fit in well.

Julie has very kindly let me have these pics, they bought land and built there housea few years ago. Just as it was being completed Julie paid for Will to have a helicopter lesson and the pilot took him over where the new house was and took some pics for them. But you can also quite clearly see our new house on the corner, you can see the tennis court, these were taken before the pool was put in, but its nice to see the house.

The 2nd was a great day, Jason finally got a letter from the ACS (Australian Computer Society) advising him that he had been awarded a 1224-11 Information Technology Manager code, it only took them 10 weeks to decide, it was a very, very long wait, they do advertise that they will let you know in 10 to 12 weeks what the result is, but we know others that have received a response within 6 weeks, as I am sure you can imagine the final 4 weeks were pure hell. But we have it now.

Saturday night we called at Peppa and Owens for a few drinks, it was a good laugh as usual and we got to know them a bit more as we were all talking about being back in England and our lifestyles and friends.

Sunday was a quiet day, we called round at Hayley and Pauls to borrow there hose pipe to empty our paddling pool, we had an hour or so with them and a glass or 3 of wine. Jason did have a look at their internet too.

It has been school hols for the first couple of weeks, I have been at work, but get to come home at least once if not twice to ensure they have not killed each other, also Jason has worked from home a couple of days so the kids have not been completely alone. As usual Tom didn’t leave the house, Mollie played with Caitlin up the road a couple of days, and Sam, well he was never in, he has had a great couple of weeks with Jamie and Charlie.

Wednesday night was Lesley’s jewellery party, she is starting to import jewellery and furniture from Indonesia, and sell them, well her jewellery is LOVELY, I did say when I got the invite that I had no cash what so ever, but she still said to go alone and support her and I did, she did well with sales and I am not surprised, I cannot wait until we have some money and I can treat myself. There were a couple of new faces at the party, Sally hasn’t been here very, only arriving in January and breaking her leg not long after, she is only just put of plaster and has not had an easy few weeks, but she was really lovely. I also met Cathie, she is from Burnley, we had a conversation about pie and mushy peas, sad I know! But I will have you know that the only mushy peas you can get here are Batchelor’s tinned (small) mushy peas and they are very expensive unless you can get them on special. She is really lovely too and I am hoping to see her again too, but not sure when as we are busy really till the end of the month.

Wednesday was also a good day UK house wise, dad met David and handed over the keys to the house, a huge weight has been lifted from our shoulders with this.

Friday was a good day work wise and I was finished at 1. I headed straight to Di and Mic’s new house to help with the move, it was good weather wise and I think between us we did really, really well, Mic was the only bloke, there was Di of course, Kerry, Peppa, Lesley and Lesley’s mum Maureen. It has to be said though I was exhausted when I got home. It was straight into my Pj’s and then cooking for tomorrow. Yesterday I has made a beef samosa filling and also a cheese and onion filling and we made a load of pasties to take with us. There are going to be a few helpers again tomorrow, at least we can all eat while we work. Not too late in bed though as it was work for me Saturday morning, I was doing respite care, never done one before, but thought the experience would be good for my CV. Also not very happy about working a Saturday morning, but needs must at the moment.

So Saturday morning we were up at a reasonable time, we contacted Mic and Di to see which house they were at and I dropped Jason before heading off to my respite in Mt Eliza. It was an easy couple of hours then back to Di’s to help with the unpacking. We got home just after 4.30, mad tea for kids and a curry for Maria and Jon’s curry night. And what a great night it was, but as usual I had on too many drinks and was not well at all on Sunday.

I had to get up and get dressed as Mollie needed new school shoes, but as soon as we had bought them it was back home and takeaway for tea, I couldn’t have cooked then back to the sofa for the rest of the evening

Last couple of weeks of June ..... And what a month its been

2009-06-28T13:07:00.000+10:00

As you can imagine we were on such a high after signing contracts on the new house on the 15th, but then reality set in and panic really, that we didn’t have that long to get ourselves organised and also the extra cash we needed for the house as well as what we need for our visa.

Sam has a school trip on the 17th, he had a great day out at an activity centre, he came home exhausted and full of himself after completing most of the activities. The 18th we were in the city for our visa medicals, it was a long day and left us a lot lighter cash wise, well the medicals were $1200 and car parking $42.00, then lunch and petrol etc.

Friday 19th we had a quiet night, a much needed one after a busy week, we have recently changed internet providers and we sat and emailed everyone our new email address. We received a reply from the estate agent advising that they had been contacted by a lady who was moving from Scotland back to the area and wanted to know if we would be interested in renting out the house. What was meant to be an early night turned out to be a late one, as we were trying to ring this woman, eventually Jason spoke to her just after 1.00 and we passed on dad’s number so that she could view the house on Sunday.

Saturday we had a lovely evening with Peppa, Owen, Chris, Claire, Di and Mic. Peppa cooked courgette and parmesan soup, I did beef bourguignon, Potatoes Dauphinoise and French beans, and Claire did a Tiramisu for desert. It was all delicious, but we were soo full after eating it all.

We got up on Monday morning to en email saying the couple wanted to rent the house and move in on the 10th July, would we make arrangements to get an agreement drawn and also an invoice as his company were paying for some of the relocation expenses and initial rent. So we have had a busy week looking at insurance, tenancy agreements, notifying the mortgage, changing bills, mail redirection and anything else we could think of. It was a relief when it was the weekend again, Friday Jason went out with Mic and Owen for a few drinks and I had a night in with Peppa which was lovely.

Saturday we helped Katya and Mark move into their new house, it is brand new and beautiful, that night we were at Hayley and Pauls, Hayley cooked a lovely chilli and rice and we really enjoyed it after a hard day moving. Jason was already streaming with cold and I felt as though I was starting, so not good, think it is all the stress we have had recently.

Sunday was a quiet pyjama day, Jason popped out to get Owen to witness our signatures on the tenancy agreement so we could post that back to the Uk, and also pick up some boxes in preparation for our move. He also produced an invoice as requested. I cooked; I did sweet chilli prawns, Chinese crispy skin belly pork and a roast beef.

And that’s it, nearly at the end of June, I cannot believe how quickly this year is going, we are concentrating on getting everything sorted to rent out the house at the moment. For the visa we are still waiting to hear from the ACS, but they will have had it 10 weeks on Monday 29th June and the website states that you will hear from them within 10 to 12 weeks, so hopefully we should hear from them within the next 2 weeks, we should have our police checks back from the UK within the next 2 weeks and also the medicals should have been processed within the next 2 weeks. So all being well our visa application should be going in middle of July sometime and they are taking anything from 1 to 4 weeks to come back, so all being well we should have our residency by the middle of August.

First couple of weeks in June ..... Ohh and did we mention a new home

2009-06-16T23:13:00.002+10:00

Friday 5th we were back to Peppa’s for supper with Chris and Claire, I did desert, Peppa did chilli and rice and Claire quesadillas, again it was a lovely night, we had a good laugh and put the world to rights.

Saturday we did some shopping, then I made dessert to take to Sally’s house warming party, we also had a house to see at 4 o clock, it was lovely, right location, huge garden, perfect location, but just not big enough for us and our visitors, it has potential for an extension, and we would still have room for a pool and a garden, but until we sell we couldn’t afford an extension or a pool. We are seeing another one on Tuesday at 4, we will see what happens with that one, it’s got 5 beds already and sounds to have enough space, but we need to have a look inside to see if the layout suits us, I am also not 100% sure about the location, but at the moment it would appear to tick 95% of the boxes, so fingers crossed. That evening was Sally and Nics house warming party, they have had one built and it is BEAUTIFUL, 5 beds, 3 living areas and a study, it would be perfect for us. I am really pleased for them, envious too as I would love to build and we will one day. It was a great party, usual crew and a couple of others we haven’t seen for a while so it was good to catch up with them.

Sunday was shopping again, one of the butchers in Mornington is doing some specials on chicken breasts, we then went and had a look at some furniture shops, when we do move we are going to need some other bits of furniture, so this was just to give us an idea of who sold what and who is likely to have the best deals. We also called at the video shop and rented 3 movies for that night.

Monday was a public holiday for the Queen’s birthday, we had promised Tom an office chair for the study so we had a drive into Frankston, and had a look round for one there, but ended up back in Mornington at Office Works.

Then it was back to work, we were meant to be seeing a house on Tuesday evening, but that viewing was cancelled, we than had 3 to see on Thursday evening, the same one as Tuesday cancelled again, personally I think it’s an omen, the house wasn’t exactly what we wanted, nor in the right location. The first one we saw wasn’t right either, and really needed some work, but the second one, well its perfect, it’s not very big at all, but has 4 bedrooms, the potential for a 5th, 2 living areas and is a nice single story on a big block and only 4 years old. It’s not cheap, but nothing is when you live this close to the beach and on the Peninsular.

Friday morning I dropped Jason in Mornington to go to the estate agent to make an offer, my job was cancelled so I was able to go too, perhaps this is a positive omen, so we paid our $500.00 initial deposit and signed a legally binding sale contract. We then had to wait until the estate agent saw the vendors at 5 o clock to see if they would accept our offer. The house is on the market at $630,000+, we offered $635,000, the agent was very good, he said that usually the first offer is the best one, but that ours is just “shy” of what they were wanting.

Hopefully the agent will point out all the houses who have had to reduce their prices recently because they haven’t sold, and get them to just accept the bit extra they were wanting. We told him about the house on Avery Court, the asking price was $650,000, we put in a verbal offer of $625,000, they told us they would accept $635,000, we told them not from us as the house needed too much work, after a few days they rang back and said they would accept our $625,000, but by then we had changed our minds, that house is still on the market and has been reduced to $600,000, so you see being clever and greedy doesn’t always pay off.

Well Friday evening came and went and no call from the EA. Jason was having a night out at our local TAB, has to be seen to be believed, but it’s within walking distance of Pep and Owens, with Owen and Mic and I had a few hours with Peppa, speculating what they might say about our offer and putting the world to rights.

Saturday we were awake early, waiting for the phone to ring, it eventually did about 10.15, it was a very long wait, the estate agent said that he hadn’t seen them Friday evening, but only that morning and they would let us know later that day. So what to do to kill the time . . . . I had been invited to go on a horse riding vineyard tour and also just a lunch and a wine tasting with another group of friends, I had declined both earlier in the week as I didn’t want to miss any new open houses, I suppose I could have un-declined one of the invites but wanted to be with Jason when he received the call. So we went to a land auction, it wa land I had been watching, over 2000 squares, but too far out for Jason to travel to the CBD. I have always wanted to go to an auction, it was just like you see on TV, nothing interesting, just cold stood on the block of land they were selling. It was funny though waiting for the first bid, it seemed like ages, anyhow the land eventually went for $390,000, bidding started at $340,000, definitely a good buy. We will be watching with interest what house they build.

It was then on to Bunnings, (B&Q), when Jason was trying to sort out the heating he had broken the loft hatch, so needed to look for a replacement. We then picked up some bits from Coles and back home, via Hayley and Pauls, we haven’t seen them for ages, it was lovely to have a quick catch up and we need to agree a date to see them soon, once home I cooked French onion soup and toad in the hole with balsamic onion gravy and mash, it was yummy.

By this time, we were pulling out hair out, I was ready to commit murder, if they are going to say no, just say it, please, and hurry up!!!! We eventually received a call from the estate agent who advised that they were still thinking about our offer ..... WHAT ????????????????, they can’t do this to us. He said that he felt it was positive that they still hadn’t rejected, but did say it was likely to be later on the Sunday when we heard from them, NOOOOOOO.

So we had a quiet Saturday night, the first one in a few weeks, to be honest it was lovely, we had a few glasses of wine and watched a movie before bed, but we didn’t sleep, well how could we.

Sunday we knew we would be up early, thankfully it was the Mornington Racecourse market so we wrapped ourselves up and headed over there for a wander in the winter sun, we had arranged to meet Peppa and Owen and had a lovely couple of hours, too lovely really as we got into sampling all the alcohol, not such a good idea for a Sunday morning, it was a little early perhaps. Peppa and I tried a strawberry liquor which was very like a strawberry baileys, it was delicious but at $22,00 for a small bottle a bit expensive, so we agreed to go halves and drink it that day between us. Not to be outdone Jason and Owen bought a white port, but it was more like a dessert wine than port it was lovely.

So having finished at the market we came home and packed up our Sunday lunch food and headed over to Peppa’s. We had a lovely, drunken, stressful afternoon waiting to hear from the ea while cooking and chatting and drinking. At 6 o clock, enough was enough, Jason rang the EA, if he could physically have got hold of him he would have killed him, he was furious. Apparently they were still deciding, but he hadn’t thought to give us a call and let us know, like he has said he would do.

Monday morning was up and to work as usual and still waiting to hear.

We decided that enough was enough and gave them until 6 that night then we would withdraw our offer, now this is where it got interesting.

The EA rang Jason at about 2 o clock and said they wanted $645,000, Jason wished them luck and said we would walk away and we were not prepared to pay this for that house, the EA backtracked and said that he thought they would accept $640,000, Jason had a real go at him and reminded him that he had said initially that we were not prepared to play games and that the initial offer was our one and only offer, the EA sweet talked him and Jason said he would speak to me and ring him back.

To be honest this is more or less a 100% mortgage so what is an extra $5,000 in the scheme of things, so we agreed, but Jason was very explicit that we would not be moving from this $640,000 price. The EA explained that the vendors were split in their decision, the man was happy to accept our $635,000 offer and but the woman was wanting more (typical really), Jason said that this was out final offer and they only had until 6 o clock that evening to decide or we would walk and withdraw our offer as were sick of being messed about.

The EA said he would ring back in 30 mins. Guess what ..... he didn’t, Jason had to ring him, the EA then announced that they wanted an extra $2.500, Jason lost it and I mean lost it, told him that they were all taking the p*ss. Our offer of $640,000 was on the table until 6 that evening, or we were withdrawing and walking away.

Jason and I had to call at the supermarket, milk, bread the usual bits, we got back just before 6, the kids all asked straight away if we had heard anything, just as each of them had done when they had come in from school.

At this point enough was enough, I calledthe kids together and told them that we had offered more money for the house, but the sellers wanted more and we couldn’t afford to go that extra, as I was telling them this Jason was typing a text to the EA telling them that we were officially withdrawing and would call into the office after 10 the next morning to pick up our deposit.

I was just finishing telling the kids and Jason about to press the send button and bang on 6 o clock the phone went, it was the EA, we had the house at $640,000 and he would be round that night to get everyone to sign the contracts.

After hugs, tears, Skype with mum and dad, and a few texts and calls, we signed contracts, so in approx 90 days we will move into this house and can’t wait :-

http://www.realestate.com.au/cgi-bin/rsearch?a=o&id=105804794&f=0&p=10&t=res&ty=&fmt=&header=&cc=&c=51156274&s=vic&snf=rbs&tm=1245162487

Last couple of weeks of May

2009-06-07T11:21:00.001+10:00

On the 12th of May we were privileged to attend Sally and her family and Lesley and her families citizenship ceremony. It was a lovely couple of hours, very informal and interesting.

The 13th was my first team meeting at work, it was interesting, and I think that’s that only way to describe it. 15th I had a haircut, first one for 12 months, well apart from when I have cut my fringe so I could see. The lovely Maria had to cut quite a chunk off it was in such bad condition, but she gave me a lovely shiny colour and a great cut, quite a lot shorter than it was. Friday night we went out with Eddy and Kerrie, we had Chinese first which was DELICIOUS, we will be taking everyone who comes to visit it is so nice, then a wander down Main Street to Brass Razu, Jason and Ed were on the red wine and Kerrie and I on the tea pots, full of Long island Iced Tea. Fab at the time, not so fab when I tried to stand up, bearing in mind the bottle of white I’d had at the Chinese.

We were somewhat annoyed on Friday, Thursday evening we had received an email from a good friend and neighbour from the UK, it was a lovely long email, with lots of updates from them and what they had been doing. Half way through Marie mentioned that it was good to see a sold sign on no 23! Now I know that there are no other houses for sale, I look at right move weekly to see any new or sold homes and where we are price wise. But I had to ask Jason what number our old house was, we were somewhat surprised that we had sold and knew nothing about it. We asked Andrew to go and have a look at the sign and sure enough it was sold. Jason spoke to the estate agent who said it was someone who wanted to change the sign and must have been studying it as the “for Sale” bit screws off and when you turn it over it says “sold”. So who ever changed it did so without being noticed and just happened to have a screwdriver in their pocket ...... hum wonder which vindictive nasty person that could be. We do have our own suspicions and what these people need to remember is what goes around, comes around!

I had such a hangover on Saturday, but it’s been a while since I was that drunk. During the day we were busy at open houses, ever here when a house is for sale it has an open house, usually on a weekend, where it is open for 30 minutes, the vendors are not about and you get to have a good look and any questions are directed to the Estate Agent.

We have decided that we are sick of renting and paying someone else’s mortgage, that we are not likely to sell our house anytime soon, even though some highly imaginative person seems fit to want to change our sale sign to sold, so we are going to buy ourselves a little house that we can call home. Then when we do sell we can decide to move again, or build. I would love to build a new house and it is something we are looking at, but as we are working towards a very tight budget until we sell, we don’t have that many options.

Saturday night, I cooked and took the food to Peppa and Owens, we had a lovely evening with them and were able to go through the pro’s and con’s of the houses we had seen.

Then it was back to work, I had an easy week with only 16.5 hours scheduled, I did an extra hour to cover someone’s cancellation, but that was OK. We have also booked our medicals for our visa and will be having those on the 18th June, better think about cutting down on the alcohol.

Friday we had been invited to Hayley and Pauls for takeaway curry from Mt Eliza, it was delicious as always, we had a good laugh with them, and weren’t late home, we always have fun with them and its nice and easy as they are within walking distance.

Saturday was a Spanish night at Peppa and Owen’s with another couple we haven’t met before Claire and Chris. I did the starter and we had chilli prawns, garlic mushrooms, chorizo in red wine and potatoes in spicy tomato sauce, olives and olive bread, Peppa then did a huge Paella which was lovely, but I am not that keen on all seafood’s, but had filled up on the starters, then onto chocolate mousse for dessert. Again we had a lovely night, it was just so easy and relaxing. We have agreed to do it again soon.

Friday 29th was boys poker night at ours, we had Justine, Kieran, Ryan and Mitchal, Julie and Mark, Audrey and Paul, Kerrie, Ed and Scarlett, Lesley, Paul and Charlie. I had taken inspiration from Peppa and decided to cook tapas, I just did ciabatta pizza for the kids and they were happy with that. Adults, we had chilli prawns, chorizo in red wine, los of potatoes in spicy tomato sauce, chilli olives, garlic mushrooms, lots of different breads and dips and Spanish chicken cooked with peppers and olives, it was all lovely even if I do say so myself, the plates were cleared in no time. After we had eaten the women got settled with wine while the blokes played poker. It was a good night, not too late, but good company and good food.

Saturday Mollie was at Poppy’s birthday party, so we had to drop her off, before setting off to view more houses, then back to pick her up, and home to make dessert before going to Lesley’s for a curry night, Lesley and Kerrie were doing curry and I was dessert. Again we had a lovely night, really relaxing and a good laugh.

And that’s it for May, this year is flying by, we are saving for our Medicals at the moment and of course to move when we see a house we want, over here you can complete within 30 days, so we need to be financially ready. June is the first day of winter, still not worn a coat yet, but I am sure that will come, its cooler but not that cold, well not as cold as the UK. We are still house hunting as we haven’t found anything as yet which quite fits what we want. We may need to compromise on what we really want, but that will come when we eventually sell, what I need to remember is that this is to put us on until we sell and if we buy properly will hopefully make us some money to go towards the next one. We have seen a couple we like, one the house was perfect inside, size wise and layout but it really was in the wrong location backing onto a busy road, we did wonder if we could get past that but we couldn’t. There was also a lovely federation style which was prefect in size and location, but it was 9 years old and in need of some work, we are watching that house and if it reduces in price then we may think about making an offer, but at the moment it is quite expensive for what it is.

First couple of weeks in May

2009-05-11T21:43:00.005+10:00

Well Friday evening we had intended going into Mornington and having a couple of drinks, but it didn’t happen. Peppa’s new baby boy who is still unnamed was rushed into hospital. He is being treated for 2 possible viruses in the hope that when they get the test results back they will have started to treat whichever one it is, thankfully he is responding to the intravenous antibiotics. While Peppa and Owen were at the hospital with him on Friday night we baby sat for McKenzie, Finnegan and Lilac. Poppy was already at our house with Mollie having a sleepover.

Saturday we didn’t rush to get up, after lunch we set off into Mornington to pick up some bits and pieces for Justine’s Mexican themed birthday party. It was take a plate so I made cake and also chicken fajitas, both went down really well. We also bought a piñata which the kids loved and made margarita’s. We had a great night and a good laugh as usual, we were home just after 2, not too late as we had Moo and Sam with us. Tom was at Hayley and Paul’s babysitting for them as they were out too.

Sunday was a lazy morning, we skyped mum and dad who are in America with Andy and Jane, they sound to be having a great time, the weather is good, 90 to 100 degrees they said. It was evening for them so they were the ones drinking wine while we were on the coffee for a change. We then sorted ourselves out and drove into Mornington, we had a wander down Main Street and did some shopping, I got another pair of Havaiana flip flops, a new cardigan, t shirt and scarf and Jason a new jumper before going to The Deck Bar at The Dava and spending a couple of hours sat in the sun with a pitcher of beer, cheesy nacho’s and potato wedges with sweet chilli and sour cream. We then headed home where I cooked a roast beef dinner and we got ourselves organised ready for work and back to school on Monday. Also an early night as we are still shattered from last night and a catching up from a few late nights last week.

Well it was back to work on the Monday as usual, still getting into the job, I am enjoying the personal care element, but not enjoying the home care bit quite as much, ohh well hopefully in time I will get more personal care jobs than homecare. On Tuesday I had a lovely couple of drinks in Mornington with Diane. She picked me up at 7.15 and we only had 3 drinks, Di was good and had soft drinks as she was driving. It was a really relaxing evening, we put the world to rights and talked and talked and talked.

After work on Wednesday I called round at Peppa’s to see the new baby who has finally been named Presley London. Diane, Kerrie and Lesley were there too, it was a very pleasant few hours and we had a good laugh. I was also very happy as Jason had rung and confirmed that we had received the governments $900.00 stimulus payment, we weren’t sure if we would receive it as we haven’t received previous ones. Jason came home from work early today and as I had been out most of the afternoon tea hadn’t been christened, so we thought it would be nice to go out. Well the idea of the stimulus payments is that you spend the money and it helps the economy, so I was quite happy to go and support a local restaurant. We headed down Main Street to see where we fancied and as we had Tom with us had to look at menus to see what he could eat .....He is such a bore when it comes to food and very unadventurous. We decided on Medditeranio which had pizza on the menu, fancy pizza but pizza all the same. We all shared a garlic and herb bread while we studied the menu. Mollie and Sam then shared more garlic bread for starter, Tom didn’t want anything he was sulking about the lack of cheese pizza. Mains, Sam had an adult portion of mussels with chilli and bread to dip, Mollie had Calamari, chips and Salad, Jason had lamb shank which was delicious, I had fillet steak with peppercorn sauce and Tom had ..... you guessed it pizza, you should have seen the look on his face when we asked for a plain margarita pizza and the waitress asked if he would like some olives and anchovies on that. Anyhow it was lovely and we had a lovely meal and very good value.

Thursday Mitchal who is Mollies friend was coming for tea, Kerrie also came round for coffee and Scarlett played with Moo and Mitchal, they must have been having a good time as Scally didn’t want to go

Friday we spoke to a financial advisor to talk about buying a house and how things worked in Australia, also to understand how much we could borrow and how much approx the payments would be. He gave us lots of things to think about. Fright night was the baby’s head wetting, Jason went into Mornington with the men and I went and sat with Peppa and the kids. The blokes had a great night and all had too much to drink, well apart from Owen who knew that he had a new baby and 4 other kids to get up to tomorrow so he was good and drove. Peppa and I had a couple of glasses of wine, but not much as I was driving us home.

Saturday we had a lie in, a cooked brunch breakfast then Jason and I set off to look at some show houses, we have not decided if we are going to buy an established house or buy land and build. There are pros and cons to both, but we are not going to rush into anything. Evening we were at Hayley and Pauls, I cooked beef stroganoff and rice and Hayley did the pud. We weren’t late, we were tired and they have two little ones who get them up early.

Sunday was mother’s day here in Oz and also in America. Mollie made me two slices of toast and grapefruit juice, I got cards and a new Pandora charm for my bracelet. We then spoke to mum and dad who are still in America, they were sat out by the pool even though it was evening and told us how hot it is. We then set off into Frankston as our TV has broken, completely and utterly and the second one switches itself off after 15 mins, so you can’t actually watch anything on it. We went to the Good Guys who always have special offers..... thankfully ...... we walked out with a 50 inch plasma, guess who’s choice that was.

After the drama of trying to get it and us and Mollie and Sam in the car we dropped the TV at home, picked up Tom and headed down to Main Street for mother’s day lunch. Again we were limited and Tom would have been really happy had we gone to KFC, which we used to lure him out of the house. We then changed it to Taco Bills for Mexican or La Porchetta for ........PIZZA. Well Sam and Tom had pizza, Jason and Mollie shared a seafood platter for 2 and I had chicken parmigano which was rather nice. We then had a quick run round to look at a couple of blocks of land we have seen before heading home for a few more glasses of wine and to prepare for work and school.

Last couple of weeks in April

2009-05-01T14:34:00.004+10:00

After the long Easter weekend it was back to work as usual, it was my final week at Domain before starting with the Shire, I was sorry to leave the Domain but looking forward to starting my new job with less and better hours.

On the 18th we were back to the airport to pick up Tom, we had a quiet morning before setting off towards Melbourne. First stop was Moorabin DFO, we had a lovely couple of hours, we didn’t spend much, you didn’t need to with t shirts at $7.00. But it was good and the kids enjoyed being able to look for a couple of new things, well we all did, new clothes are still not on our montly budget plans.

From here we headed towards the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex, we wandered round the shops, window shopping as these were the top price designer shops, before heading to SteakOut for tea, it was lovely, very relaxing and I was able to have a couple of drinks unlike poor Jason who was driving. After we had eaten we went into Crown Towers Hotel and sat in the lounge people watching for half an hour before getting back into the car and heading towards the airport. Tom was 30 minutes late and eventually walked through the arrivals door at 11.15. It was straight to the car and the first KFC drive though as he was starving. Straight to bed for us all when we eventually got back to the house about 1 ish.

The 20th was a big day, all kids were back to school and I stared Induction training with the Shire, starting at 12.30, We spent the afternoon going through policies and procedures. Tuesday was looking at the role, responsibilities and OHS, the afternoon was manual handling. Wednesday and Thursday was shadowing, again that was really enjoyable and I met a couple of really lovely girls who were really helpful and gave lots of advice to help me when I am working alone. Thankfully nothing on Friday as I was exhausted and we needed to get ready for our party on Saturday to celebrate Our one year in Oz, one year in the rental and Jason’s birthday.

Saturday 25th was our party, it was a good party and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, Maggie and Mitch came down from the city and stayed over and it was lovely to catch up with them. The evening flew by, I hardly spoke to anyone it went so quickly. Tom went and babysat for Hayley and Paul so that they could come to the party. We went to bed about 3.00, not that late thankfully, but late enough.

We were woken at 8.30 on the Sunday morning with a text from Peppa, her contractions had started, Owen was not about and she needed to go to the hospital, I took her and did the rubbing back and breathing, Owen arrived just in time and I was with them for the birth of their beautiful baby boy.

The last week in April I was working alone, my job is a mix of personal care and home care. It was enjoyable but the home care can be tiring and I do prefer the personal care, hopefully in time I will get more personal care.

Tuesday was Jason’s birthday, we got the kids KFC and we went to The Rocks for a lovely romantic meal and very relaxing evening.

The last week of April saw some dreadful weather, more rain than we have had in a long time and gale force winds, so our leak in the balcony roof it back, the builder has been and had a look and cannot figure out how the water is getting in. They may have to take the study ceiling down or the balcony floor up to try and sort it ..... great! Not what we had in mind.

And best news of all for April ..... the blog is now up to date, so I can not carry on with updates as they happen, rather than trying to remember what we did and when.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-29T20:25:00.003+10:00

Friday was Good Friday, we didn’t do a great deal during the day and called round at Hayley and Pauls for a few drinks that evening, same really on Saturday we didn’t do much at all, which was rather nice for a change.

Easter Sunday was a very busy day, we are members of Mornington racing club who were having a family day, we packed a picnic and headed there with the kids, it was glorious, we didn’t do too bad with the betting, well Jason didn’t, I sat in the sun drinking fizz.

When we got home it was a quick turnaround as we were out at Kerrie and Ed’s house for a party to celebrate Chris’s 18th birthday and Ed’s 20 something. It was a themed night, the kids all dressed in working adult costumes and the adults in school wear. It was a great night, everyone had a lovely evening, and a good laugh too.

Easter Monday we were somewhat shabby after a late and drunken night, it was lovely weather wise so we had a drive over to Flinders and had a walk down the Main Street, a glass of wine and some nibbles, it was very pleasant and civilised.

First Half of April 2009

2009-04-23T21:26:00.002+10:00

April has been a lovely month, weather wise it has been good, we are able to compare ourselves with last year when we arrived and its not been quite as nice, but still nice.

On the 1st we went up to Hayley and Pauls, her parents are here, we had few drinks and an hour or 2 in the spa, it was a lovely evening.

On the 2nd it was a friends daughter’s 2nd birthday so I called in after work for a few nibbles and piece of cake, I then picked Moo up from school and we waited for Sam to come home, then headed over to Peppa’s so the kids could have a swim in the pool, and we could have a gossip, it was such a lovely day.

The 3rd was a special day it was one year that we had left the UK, I had lunch with Peppa and then back home to finish packing for Tom, it is strange really that he was flying back to the Uk 1 year and 1 day after we had left and landing back into the UK exactly one year to the day that we landed in Australia. The kids broke up today too for the two weeks Easter holidays.

The Saturday Tom was flying back, we had a quiet morning, before setting off into Melbourne just after lunch, we had a wander round, then onto the Southbank for something to eat before setting off to the airport. We had a panic at check in when we realised that Tom was flying to Singapore, then onto Dubai, before Manchester. But he was very calm and looking forward to seeing his dad and friends.

Sunday we had lunch with Peppa and Owen, it was a lovely day the kids played and we weren’t too late leaving due to work the following day, Peppa had kindly offered to have the kids on the Monday for me. Both Jason and I were working, me only mornings and not every day and Jason was going to work from home a few days, but not having Tom here meant we still didn’t have someone to watch over Sam and Moo.

Monday 6th we spoke to Tom and dad on skype, Tom is cold, which we found highly amusing as its still quite nice here.

Tuesday Peppa had the kids again and I gave my notice to Domain, I sent a lovely letter as I have enjoyed working there, but the shift hours are not ideal, initially the hours with the shire are slightly better, and in time I can ask for more flexibility with them, but let’s start the job first.

Wednesday and Thursday Jason worked from home, he went to see a Tax accountant, which was a very worthwhile visit and we will both be returning to see them later this year. When I finished work we called round at Kerrie’s and had a few beers by her pool, sat in the sun which was rather nice, before going to Wok on Bay for a Chinese Takeaway.

March 2009, where is this year going

2009-04-10T20:02:00.006+10:00

Once again the month flew by, don’t think we were as busy this month as last, but we still didn’t seem to have enough hours in the day. As usual weekdays were spent working, jobs around the house and early nights as we were too tired. The Friday of the 6th we were meeting Eddie, Kerrie, Diane and Mic, Lesley and Paul at a Chinese in Mornington, it was a lovely meal, we had soo much food it was unreal and incredibly cheap, it was BYO for beer and wine and the meal was $40.00 per couple.

On the Sunday it was Scarletts Birtday party BBQ, I had made a cake for her and was very pleased with my efforts too, we had a lovely day, but had to leave early, although the Monday was a bank holiday I was working, so I was not impressed.

I got home from work at 1.35 on the Monday, quick shower and change then we had a drive down the coast to Sorrento.

It was a beautiful day, we sat outside the Continental hotel, with a pitcher of beer and a large vanilla slice for Jason, Mollie had a rocky road chocolate slice, she had to eat it quick though as it was melting.

The following Saturday was Julies birthday night out at the Brass Razu in Mornington, we started there and shared some food platters which were really nice. It was then on to a wine bar with a late license. It was a great night and we were all a little worse for wear

At work this week I was completing my in house medication course which when completed means that I can administer medications to the residents. I passed, but haven’t had much chance to put it into much use as our team leader seems this as her duty.

Friday was a girls night at Koko Cafe, it was a lovely meal and a lovely night, thankfully not too late home as we had Julie and Mark and Justine and Kieran coming round on the Saturday evening. We also had Hayley and Paul round for a BBQ during the day as it was soo nice.
The boys played poker while us girls just sat in the garden drinking wine and gossiping ... a perfect night really.

We have had some lovely weather this month and the last weekend was no exception. I was working on the Saturday morning, the novelty of that has really worn off now and I am looking to leave, had I not been looking at leaving then I would be dropping the Saturday as it really does interfere with my weekends far too much.

Saturday night was a Party at Angie’s for her son’s birthday, again it was a lovely night, very easy and not too much to drink for me as I was just too tired. Jason had wanted to go to the beach when I got home from work but I couldn’t muster up the energy, so we had compromised and were packing a picnic and going on the Sunday instead, that way we would have longer. We mentioned this at the party and said we would text which beach we were at.

So on Sunday morning we were up early and first job was to go into Mornington and sort out a mobile for Sam’s birthday, while we were there we also got a new contract phone for me. We then went home packed the esky and headed off to South Beach, it was lovely, the kids were straight in the sea, Jon, Louise, Conner and Mollie, Angie, Dave and Ryan, Sally, Rob and Sally’s parents joined us. Lou and Jon have a kayak which they brought with them, it was a lovely day, we all had a laugh and the kids and men enjoyed the kayak.

Monday was my short week so I wasn’t working on the Monday, I met Peppa, Diane, Diane’s sister Joan and we joined Natalie and Lisa for lunch for Nats birthday. It was a great laugh and I had a stitch from laughing at one point. Lunch was also really good, we sat outside the bays and had the lunch special which is £15.00 for lunch and a glass of wine.

Monday was also Sam’s 12th birthday, after picking everyone up we headed into Mt Eliza to The Rasoi Tandoori Indian Kitchen, where he opened his presents and cards. We had a delicious meal before heading home to the cake I had made for him. He was very pleased with the day, going out, his new mobile phone and the cards and messages from the UK.

I was naughty on the Tuesday and rang in sick. I do have a very good reason that I have not mentioned before as I did not want to tempt fate. Earlier this year I knew that I would struggle with the kids and working the shifts I do. Tom was now starting TAFE at 8.30 rather than 9 and the bus timetable had changed. Sam would need to get the bus to Mt Eliza for school and would need to leave home at 7.55 to get to school ready for 8.45.

Which left me with Mollie, first option was school club, school is 2 mins from where I work so this was a good option. School club is open from 7 and I start work at 7, so I assumed that I would be ok to leave her in the school car park and by the time she had walked to the school gym, it would be 7.

I was very wrong... when they say start at 7, that’s driving into the car park and unlocking the school teachers car park gates at 7, I then have to take her and sign her in, I was late for work for 2 consecutive days. Thankfully on day 2, I was picking Moo up from school when I saw Justine who asked how work was going, I told her it wasn’t and about school club and being late and she volunteered to help out. So I have been dropping Moo at Justine’s at 6.50 each morning, FAR too early for an 8 year old to be up and about.

Anyhow When I knew I was going to struggle I mentioned this to the girls over lunch one day and Sally said that she would take my CV to the Shire, where she worked, she didn’t think they were recruiting but they would keep my CV on file. So I did, the week after I had an interview which went well. The next thing I heard was when my manager asked me why the Shire were ringing and asking for a reference, I explained my situation and we had a discussion about my taking Moo to work and then my taking her to school but Moo would still be up at 6 o clock so still not ideal.

On this Tuesday was the final part of the Shire recruitment process, a Functional Capacity Test, I had to lift boxes to different levels, crawl forwards and backwards, walk top to toe forwards, then backwards, step on and off a box for 3 mins, squat, lunge, do a grip test and then another co-ordination test. I was exhausted and anyone who knows me well, knows I do not exercise, I have no co-ordination and am very unfit, I knew there was no way I had passed with flying colours and the fact that I couldn’t walk for the rest of the week proves that, but they still offered me a job working 20 hours per week, its 5 hours a week less than now, but its more money and I get travel allowance so will not be that out of pocket and will have more time and hopefully be less tired. But we will see, I start on the 20th April so watch this space.

February...... What a busy month

2009-04-05T12:05:00.011+10:00

We all knew that February was not going to be easy as mum and dad were leaving us, but with a promise that they would be back. Just before mum they left I was offered permanent shifts at work, they had been harassing me for some time and I had always said that I would go permanent when they left as I liked working when I wanted to and being casual I was able to do just that. I agreed to working Mon, Tue, Wed, Thur and Sat mornings 7.00 until 1.30, then the following Tue, Wed and Thur, I much prefer week 2 and by Thursday of week one I am exhausted. It is in the high care wings, which is very demanding and very physical, but I am still wearing size 8’s so it can’t be doing me any harm.

Tom started back at Tafe, Mollie went back into year 3 at Benton’s and Sam started Mt Eliza Secondary College, he was a little nervous on the first day but loves it, he really has settled in well which is a relief. He even prefers getting the bus to and from school than me dropping him off.

On Wednesday the 4^th mum and dad left, we’d had a lovely couple of days having lunch in Mornington before they left, the kids were home from school when we left to take them to the airport, it was a hard day and reminded me of when we left the UK, because you don’t know when you are going to see them again. Jason and I took them to the airport, they checked in with no issues, thanks to Wii Fit, which we were using as weighing scales for the cases. We then shared some food and drinks before they had to go through, it was really awful, we were all just crying, not sure what they must have thought of mum and dad at passport control. I cried most of the 1.5 hours journey back home. Thursday wasn’t great either, Angie came round and I will still in bed, I had got up to see Sam off to school and take Moo but gone back to bed as I was just too tired.

Friday I had made arrangements for some of the girls to come for lunch, so I knew I had to make an effort for that, I did Chicken Caesar salad a Jamie Oliver recipe and it was lovely, it was a hot and sunny day so we were able to sit in the garden, all very civilised.

Saturday night we were at Sally’s party, that was a lovely night, but the night of the bush fires, it had been incredibly hot during the day and Jason and I had just sat in the pool all day, it was too hot to try and sunbathe or even just sit in the sun. At Sally’s we were sat in the garden most of the night. We hen got up on the Sunday to the news about Black Saturday and the fires that were still burning out of control, it was dreadful watching the news and quite frightening as we are also in a high fire risk area, so all the local papers were telling us to be fire aware and have a plan. Sam has had 2 days off school due to the fire risk and even now (end of March) we are being advised that we are still at risk due to the very dry summer we have had.

While mum and dad were here we had spoken to them about our plans, although we dreadfully miss family and friends from the UK, we also have a good life here, it isn’t easy at all due to the amount of money we send back to the UK to pay our mortgage and bills, but where we live is beautiful, the kids are very happy and settled, they have friends and can play out safely, we can go to the beach when we want as it is on our doorstep, parking is free, there are free barbeques, it doesn’t have to cost you a great deal to go out for the day, just take a picnic and that’s it. We are currently here on a temporary visa and Jason’s employers originally said they will sponsor us after 2 years to stay permanently. Well that is going to happen sooner and we are now in the process of getting the money and the information we need to become Permanent Residents here in Australia and although mum and dad know that once we have that there is less chance of our coming back, they fully support our decision.

Valentine’s day was a very romantic meal for 6. At Sally’s we had talked about what we were doing and I said I would cook something nice for Jason and I, I didn’t see the point in going out and paying a fortune for a meal that would normally be half the price just because it was valentine’s day. Sally said that her and Rob didn’t really do anything so I invited them and then Louise and Jon. It was a busy day as I was working in the morning, while I was at work Jason and the kids tidied and cleaned the house. We then started preparing the food. We had coconut prawns, a chilled tomato and basil soup, fillet steak with wild mushroom sauce, garlic and rosemary roast potatoes, steamed baby carrots and asparagus, then melt in the middle chocolate pudding. For the 6 kids I did nachos’, then pizza, then chocolate melt in the middle puddings. When we had finished eating the men got on the Wii to play golf and we just chattered over a few bottles of wine, they left about 3.30 ish, it was a late but lovely night.

Weekend of the 20^th was a busy one, Friday night we were at Hayley and Pauls with Tony and Jane we were all taking a curry dish. It was a lovely evening and a good laugh, we don’t see enough of them really. Saturday was Lesley’s party as he mum had just arrived from the UK for 6 months, again that was a good night, don’t think we were that late though, well we weren’t the last to leave for a change. We were up early on Sunday as Stef was coming to see us. We knew him in the UK and he has been sponsored by his employers to come to Oz but to Brisbane. He has family here in Melbourne so he was here visiting them before moving to Brisbane to start work. It was a gorgeous day, we had brunch on Main Street then went to the beach. We had packed some beers and snacks and had a great afternoon. Stef, his sister in law Ali and brother in law Marc left about 4 as they had about an hour’s drive to get back home, we stayed at the beach until after 6. Just as Stef was leaving we saw Angie and Dave so they came and sat with us and we just watched the world go by while drinking wine for another couple of hours, it’s a hard life you know.

Midweek was a girls might out with Peppa, Diane, Kerrie and Sally, we just had a couple of drinks in Main Street as we were working the following day, but it was good to catch up, Friday night was another girls night out, this time with Lesley, her mum, Lorraine, Angie, Karen, Louise, and Sally we went to La Porchetta which is pizza and pasta and even better its BYO, well it was for everyone else, I was working on Saturday morning, so I wasn’t drinking, I was the designated driver for the night and took everyone apart from Lesley and her mum home about 11. Saturday night was Maria’s house warming party again a really good night was had, and again we weren’t the last to leave. Sunday was a drive over to Hastings and a spot of lunch in the Pelican Pantry while watching the pelican’s on the beach.

Tracy's 40th Birthday

2009-03-20T21:05:00.006+11:00

On the 29th of January it was Tracy’s 40th birthday, during the evening we were out at The Rocks which is a lovely restaurant with beautiful views and then a bit of a BBQ for a few friends the following Saturday. This week has been incredibly hot over 40 degrees and with no air con in the house we really have been suffering with the heat. The Rocks was great and we sat out on the terrace but it was still too hot.

At the BBQ we were still sat in the garden at 3.30am it was still so hot, thankfully we had invited the neighbours so we didn’t upset them.

Australia Day

2009-03-20T20:40:00.004+11:00

The 26^th of January was Australia Day Bank Holiday, it is a BIG thing here in Oz, and everyone is very patriotic, we headed into Mornington and round the park where they were giving away free flags, free face painting and lots of free activities for the kids. We left Moo with Kerrie and Eddie as she and Scally were having too much fun with the free kids things. Mum, Dad, Jason, Me, Hayley and Paul and there 2 children set off to Main Street to find a spot to watch the parade, it was very difficult, all the cafes were full and the streets lined, we eventually found a little space to sqeeze into.

It was a long parade with lots of people, I think anyone can be in the parade as some of the things were a little pointless in my opinion. After the parade which ended in the park there was then the flag raising and National Anthem, after dark there were the fireworks. We picked up Moo then went and sat outside one of the cafes and had a few beers and wines before picking up Grumpys pizza and heading home.

Week ending 25th January

2009-03-04T20:14:00.006+11:00

On the Monday it was another hot day, Jason wasn’t working but we didn’t rush to do anything, Lesley, Kerrie and Sally came round for a spot of lunch, then Kerrie, Lesley, mum and I got in the pool. It was a lovely afternoon with a few shandy’s, wine and soda’s before moving onto the fizzy stuff.

Tuesday was lunch at Kerrie’s, mum and dad decided not to come and had quiet afternoon just sitting in our garden., it was another hot day, although a little windy. Sam and Moo were in the pool with Charlie and Scally and had a great time.

Both Jason and I were only working mid week, which was good, we were able to have a nice long weekend

Friday we all had a trip to Moonlit Sanctuary, which is a local wildlife sanctuary where you can hand feed the kangaroo’s, it’s not too far away and not very big either. A lovely afternoon was had by all.

Mum and I should have been at Angie’s for Chardy Friday, but we didn’t make it as a friend text and said she needed a friend, so I was with her.

On the Saturday we were at Justine and Kieran’s Pre Australia Day BBQ, Justine’s parents are here too from the UK, we had a lovely afternoon / evening and great BBQ food. We even tried roo, which we haven’t had before and were not sure about eating, dad refused point blank, well he had been hand feeding them the day before, mum tried it but didn’t like, but Jason and I were quite surprised how tasty it was. As seems to be the norm, we had far too much to drink.

Sunday was a quiet day in Mornington, we had a few drinks and a spot of lunch before heading back for a BBQ.

Down At The Beach

2009-02-06T19:07:00.004+11:00

On Sunday we went to the beach, Hayley and Paul came and met us with Millie and Carter, it was a hot day but the kids loved playing in the sea, mum and dad went in a few times too to cool down. We were sat in front of the life saving club and enjoyed watching them training. It was a lovely few hours, very relaxing just watching the world go by.

Paddling Pool

2009-02-06T18:48:00.006+11:00

Week ending 18th January

Once again Jason and I were working this week, but only for 3 days, Jason was off on the Monday and Friday, We didn’t do much on the Monday as we’d had a busy weekend, on the Friday we set about clearing some space in the garden for our paddling pool. It didn’t take long, which was good, although it was hot it was also very windy. Friday evening mum and I were at Lesley’s for Chardy club. It was a good laugh but again we weren’t too late home, Sally-Anne’s hubby Nick dropped us off.

Saturday morning we were up early as we were having the water delivered ready for the paddling pool, due to the stage 3 water restrictions, we are not allowed to water plants or gardens or clean cars, so there was no way we could fill the pool from the tap.

Week Ending 11th January

2009-02-01T12:47:00.004+11:00

After a quiet week, with work for us and a lazy week for dad and mum, we had Friday to look forward to, which was shopping, nothing new here for food and beer, then mum and I had to get to ready for a girls meet. We were meeting Lesley, Louise, Sally, Karen and Yvonne down in Main Street, for a few classes of wine and a good gossip.

At about 8.30 Dad and Jason met us, and after saying our goodbyes we had a wander up Main Street and a few beers, wines and culminating in a Liquorice Allsorts Margarita cocktail in a large fish bowl which mum, dad and I shared,

The taxi home got stopped by the booze and drugs bus which is ALWAYS out and about and not worth taking the risk for. This night they were on the Nepean Highway and were patrolling all 6 lanes (3 either side). All lanes were shut and every driver breathalysed, dad was amazed as he was under the impression that in the UK this would have been a violation of Human Rights, well not here.

We tried not to be too drunk or late as we were out the following day, but that didn’t happen, it was a good night and mum and dad commented on how amazed they were that you could have a nice evening drink without being deafened due to the music, most bars are very wine bar’ish with large sofa’s, lots of wine on offer and no loud music, it seems you have to go to a night club for that. It is all very sophisticated really, glad we didn’t stay with the girls as they did go to a nightclub and didn’t get in until about 4 ish, not sure mum could have coped with that.

On the Saturday we went to Point Nepean, it was a lovely hot day, but a little breezy, Point Nepean is stunning, it was closed to the public for over 100 years, bit is now a National Park and home to Fort Nepean, established in 1882, and the historic Quarantine Station first established in 1852.

Sunday we were at Peppa and Owen’s for a BBQ

Sausage Sizzle and Games Night

2009-01-10T20:20:00.005+11:00

Well we were back to work unfortunately on the Monday, but we’d had a good weekend so that was OK. On the Saturday we met Eddie, Kerrie and Scarlett for a sausage sizzle on Frankston beach, then back to there’s for the kids to have a swim and we could have more beer / wine. After supper Cranium came out and we all had a game, including dad, which did surprise me a little as he isn’t really into games. It’s fair to say a good night was had by all.

Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Eve / Day and Wine Tasting in Between

2009-01-04T21:16:00.010+11:00

Christmas Eve didn't quite go as planned, not that we had that much planned anyway, apart from the usual picking up the Turkey, Ham, Veg, and taking Buster for a haircut.

Jason and I were on call for Hayley, a friend of ours whose baby was due earlier in December and we were looking after her little girl Millie when they time came that she needed to go into hospital. We were with Hayley and Paul the evening before Christmas Eve and Hayley was having contractions, a little late, so we expected a call during the night, it came as we were getting up to drop the dog and pick up the Turkey.

So Jason went with mum and dad do what needed to be done while I had Millie, we then took it in turns during the day to look after her while we got things sorted here for Christmas. Poor Hayley eventually had an emergency caesarean but delivered a very healthy 9lb 9 oz baby boy who is adorable.

When Paul arrived back from the hospital we came home and had some tea, before getting all the pressies ready.

Christmas Morning we were up about 8.30, not too early thank goodness, when everyone was up Andrew skyped and we positioned the lap top so he could see the pressie opening. As usual the kids were delighted with what they got and we had fun during the day playing with everything. The weather wasn’t great, it was warm but breezy so we had seafood starter cooked on the BBQ and then traditional turkey and the trimmings.

Buster getting into the Christmas Spirit

Tree and Pressies and Buster and Pressies

Boxing day we went to the beach, well why not the sun was shining and it was lovely and warm, we took a picnic and had a couple of hours playing in the sand, before going to Sorrento and having a jug of beer and a bottle of wine, ohh and the kids had coffee and cake.

Sam keeping cool and Tom not complaining for once

Torture by fly

Mt Martha in the distance

Saturday 27th, was shopping, the kids money from Aunts and Friends (thank you all very much), was burning a hole in their pockets and I had some money to spend from Andrew, which was spent very wisely in the sales.

Sunday 28th was a lazy day, we didn’t rush to get up after a hectic few days, once we’d had breakfast we set off to find the Karina vineyard, the bottle of wine in Sorrento yesterday was from this vineyard and was very nice, we knew it wasn’t too far away so decided to try and find it. We found it and a couple more in the process, mum and dad had great fun, we don’t have a picture of dad carrying out the box from one of the yards.

The following week Jason and I were back at work for a couple of days, Jason worked from home and I had to go in obviously, but only until 3.15 so it wasn’t too bad.

New years eve we were invited to Justine and Kieran’s, they are a lovely couple, who arrived here after us, it was a select gathering, with them and their 2 boys, Julie and Mark, Eddy and Kerrie, Nick and Sally and 2 of their kids, Stuart and his boys (his wife was working) and another couple and their children and I cannot remember their names.

We all went, Tom and Sam came home about 10.30, they were bored, we saw midnight in and mum and dad came home at about 1.30 and Jason and I got home about 3.30 apparently.......I can’t remember and I was very tired the next day and didn’t get out of bed until after 1 in the afternoon.

It was a lovely night, everyone had a good laugh and mum and dad enjoyed meeting new friends and some old ones they had met before.

Mum trying the Ozzie snowball and not liking it

Week 3

2008-12-22T19:18:00.007+11:00

Well mum and dad have been here just over 3 weeks, the time has flown by very quickly.

Monday was Sam's leaving assembly from Bentons, the children talked about memories of there time at school then each child was presented with a plaque, certificate and year picture.

Sam listening to all the nice things his teacher had to say about him.

Admiring his plaque from the Principal.

From school we drove to Chadstone which is a large shopping centre where we picked up a few bits for the kids for Christmas.

Both Jason and I were working during the week, so mum and dad pottered round the house and one day caught the bus into Mornington for lunch. After work one day we took the dog and the kids to the beach so he could have a run.

Friday night Jason and I went to Sue's party, we had been food and christmas shopping during the day and didn't get back home until late. We wanted early nights as we were going into Melbourne early Saturday for the day, so we just popped into the party for an hour.

Saturday we were up bright and early ready to get the train into the city, it was a very long day as it was warm with lots of walking. First stop was Eureka Tower to admire the views from the 88th floor.

We then had lunch on the Southbank.

Then onto Victoria Market where we had a wander before stopping for a drink to re-hydrate ourselves.

Down to Myer to view the Christmas window's, the city's tree, we went on the tram round the city, then back down to the Southbank for another drink before getting the train back to Frankston, then driving into Mornington for tea at the Garlic Kiss.

Sunday we didn't rush to get up, we were bombing today so all had to be out of the house for a couple of hours, it was really hot today, so we took Buster to the beach, Jason, and the kids were in the sea it was so lovely. Then back to the house for lunch before a BBQ tea and an early night ready for work again.

2 Weeks in with mum and dad

2008-12-14T19:45:00.008+11:00

Well mum and dad have been here just over 2 weeks today and I am sure you are keen to know what they have been up to apart from sleeping off the jet lag, and we have had some prompts too . Well, they did really well, much better than we expected on the first day. We arrived at the airport to pick them up just before 7 in the morning and watched the luggage labels for the Emirates flight. When they first came through I did try to shout but couldn’t, nothing came out of my mouth but the tears started to flow, it was great to see them after such a long time, I couldn’t even eat the chocolate dad handed to me.

We brought them back to the house via the scenic beach road, not sure they noticed much though or were that bothered. They were tired but luckily admitted that the flight was much better than they had thought, but they had expected it to be really bad and it wasn’t as bad as they thought it would be. They were tired though and after a quick drink and cuddles with the kids went to bed for a couple of hours.

When they got up we didn’t do much, we went to the local market and had a wander round and tasted the food and wines, before a quick drive down Main Street before coming back for chilli and a few wines before an early night.

Sunday we drove to Southlands which is a large shopping centre to pick up a few bits, but again didn’t do much as we were all just too tired, dad was that tired he went in his slippers, which was OK as he fitted in well with the laid back Ozzies, who actually shop in PJ’s and slippers or bare feet.

Monday through to Friday was back to work for Jason and I, originally I only had shifts booked for Monday and Tuesday but managed to pick up shifts on Wednesday and Thursday too. Mum and dad just had a quiet week, mum sorted things out for work and dad enjoyed walking Buster. Mum also brought all our ironing up to date, which was FAB, but as it has never been completely up to date we had to go out and buy new coat hangers. We have been having a few bottles of wine, mum and dad particularly like Danny Dodars which is mums new name for Dan Murphy’s and how cheap the wine is...Lindeman’s bin 65 chardonnay is $5.25 a bottle, which is about £2.60, they are taking advantage of this and we are not complaining, well apart from when we have to get up for work the following day.

Thursday evening we were all at school for Benton’s Christmas Celebration, there were stalls, Santa arrived and all the kids performed in there year groups which was lovely, thankfully it didn’t rain too much as it was all outdoors.

Friday was a lovely day, we had a drive to Aldi, and also my butchers in Karingal, again parents were particularly impressed with the choice and price, especially if you bulk buy. It was such a nice evening that we decided to BBQ some of the meat we had bought that day.

Saturday we had a drive out down the coast to Arthurs seat,

where we visited the Pig and Whistle pub for lunch and sampled a bottle of local wine, well mum and I did.

We then went to Stumpy Gully which is one of 160 cellar doors on the Peninsular, for wine tasting. Mum also purchased a few bottles for over Christmas and keeps looking at the wine tasting map we have, to see where we are going next to sample.

Saturday evening we should have been at Lesley’s party, unfortunately it was cancelled as she was ill, so we asked Hayley and Paul over for a few drinks and something to eat, we cooked on the BBQ, but ate in as it was a little cool. As usual it was a pleasant evening and not too late either which was good.

Sunday we had a drive down to Mount Martha village and had a wine and nibbles at the South beach cafe which was rather nice and very busy, we were able to sit outside as the sun was shining, then a walk on the local beach.

Weekdays was again back to work for us, but mum and dad were OK, they did villa and HPE work, and one day caught the bus at the top of the road into Mornington for lunch. I only worked 3 days this week which was good, so we were able to have a drive to Rosebud one day and also into Frankston one day. Dad and I took Tom one afternoon for his hair cut and he looks loads better for it. Dad is still happy to walk Buster in the morning and enjoys talking to whoever else is about walking their dog.

I dropped mum and dad in Mornington straight after work on wednesday, we went to the bank and changed their travellers checks, I then left them went to pick up Moo and Sam and then we had icecream and a drink on the high street. We then went through to Frankston to pick up Tom and Jason, then back into Morningotn to La Porchetta for Pizza, Mum and dad and Jason and Sam shared a vyer large sea food platter, Moo and Tom had pizza and I had veal, the portions were huge and we left loads but it was a lovely meal and Sam really enjoyed his prawns and calamari.

Thursday Hayley and Paul had invited us to their house, it was a lovely day and we were able to enjoy the spa before having homemade curry, again we had a lovely evening, not too late as Jason was at work on the Friday, but we all had a lovely evening and mum and dad got along well with Hayley and Paul.

Last night was Sally’s party where they met some of our friends, it was a lovely night, and mum and dad seemed to enjoy themselves talking to everyone and we now have invites for parties on Boxing Day and the beginning of January, we need to try and organise our own party one day but not sure when that will be.

Today we had a lie in but that might have something to do with our hangovers, we then drove to Tully’s our local farm shop, ordered our Christmas turkey and ham and stocked up on lots of nice things for tea, we then had a drive down Main Street and found a little cafe for antipasti lunch and a glass of wine for lunch before coming back and having a snooze before sorting tea.

It has been a busy couple of weeks, but they have settled in well and seem to be enjoying the lifestyle, dad is getting into the Oz Cafe culture and enjoying a coffee and cake mid afternoon. The weather has been a bit hit and miss with some cloudy but warm days, but also quite a lot of rain, apparently the Oz summer doesn’t actually start until the 21st of December, hoprfully it will arrive by then or I don’t think we will be BBQing the turkey on Christmas Day.

Countdown

2008-11-26T21:43:00.004+11:00

Monday was an early start as Sam needed to be at school for 6 ready to leave for his school trip to Canberra, the kids were all so excited, which is good, the adults were frozen, wet and tired. Anyhow as soon as they started ticking off names and allowed to board the coach he was off, no kiss, no good bye no nothing, just a wave from the window, which we couldn’t see very well as they were tinted. We have not heard from him, there is only contact in case of emergency, so no emergencies as yet. They fly back on Friday afternoon and I am sure he will be shattered.

Monday I should have been at work, but my lovely friend Hayley needed a baby sitter for Millie, Hayley is pregnant and her son is due very soon but she was told he was breach and could be turned on Monday, she had made arrangements with a different friend as I was rostered for a shift but was let down on Sunday night so I stepped in. I didn’t have to look after Millie long at all as the baby had turned himself over the weekend.

But that gave me an opportunity to sort Sam’s room, he is now moved in with Tom and his room is spotless and the new bedding ready for mum and dad. As this is a rental and a brand new house we can’t put anything on the walls so the rooms do look very bare, but it looks OK and has a corner window and lots of light for them, also lots of sun, so with no air con that might not be such a benefit, we will see.

Tuesday and Today have been work days, tonight I spoke with mum and dad who are virtually packed and ready to leave, they are going to look at on-line check in tonight to make it easier when they arrive at the airport.

We are all soo excited, Moo checks with me every day that nana and granddad are coming on Saturday, and even Tom walked in from college tonight and asked if I had spoken to them and said he can’t believe that they will be here at the weekend.

Unfortunately for nana and granddad they kids have SOOO much planned for them............ for this weekend, I keep trying to remind them that on our first night in Melbourne Sam was falling asleep in his food and they are going to be shattered too and we need to remember that for the first few days, they are here for 10 weeks afterall, and I am sure it will fly by, but we do have time to see and do lots of things and we will.

Peppas Surprise Birthday Party

2008-11-23T22:29:00.002+11:00

Do you all know that this time next Sunday mum and dad will be here!!!!!

Well today it was Peppa’s birthday, she and her hubby Owen are a lovely couple, they have 4 children, Mackenzie is in Sam’s class, Poppy is in Moo’s class and Finnegan (2) and lilac (1) are only babies and she is expecting again, this one was not planned, but they will be fine, they are both very laid back and very, very easy going. They have been true friends to Jason and I since we met them not long after we arrived and have introduced us to some other lovely people too, Peppa will do anything for anyone which is why a surprise party was a lovely idea for her.

Kerrie and I had made arrangements to meet at the house at 11.30 once they had set off to Mornington for breakfast, Kerrie had bought the balloons and banners and we had done the plastic plates, knives, forks, cups etc, everyone was bringing their signature plate. As the initial weather forecast was not good we were all cooking but in true Melbourne style the weather was better than expected and Owen wanted to BBQ, so we were asked to get some BBQ things, which meant that the morning was a little more rushed to say the least, but it all turned out OK. I had baked the cake and now have requests for deserts at the next two parties we are going to.

Everyone was arriving before 12.30 when Owen expected to get back with Peppa, we had all parked on a side road so she would have no idea what was going on. Peppa was very surprised and I think she had a good day, we were able to sit out round the pool while the kids had a swim and had a lovely afternoon

When we got back we called in at Hayley and Pauls (our Sunday ritual) and had a couple of drinks with them before coming home ready for an early night as Sam goes to Canberra tomorrow but has to be at school at 6.00 in the morning that is the usual getting up time, so not great.

Did you know that this time next Sunday mum and dad will be here.

Friday & Saturday

2008-11-22T20:13:00.002+11:00

Friday I was given extra shifts at work through to the first week in January which is good news, they have asked if we could agree some permanent ones then (I get paid more on a casual basis than I would being permanent, but am working more or less full time hours on casual at the moment) although for 2 of the weeks I only have one shift each week, which is not so good.

Some of the shifts I have been given are only until 1.30 which fits in well with mum and dad being here. We have spoken to them and they appreciate that I need to work to assist with our monthly outgoings. Jason is taking some time off work on the days I am not working and we can have day trips out then and also on the weekends. When I finish at 13.30, once the kids have broken up, mum, dad me and the kids can go off somewhere local, there is soo much to see and do on our door step that we can do this and still pick Jason up at 18.00.

We had an early night as we were all shattered and knew we had a busy weekend planned, Sam is away next week with school, I am working 4 days and we are all on countdown......... so as next Saturday gets closer the more excited we will be, I was excited Saturday morning just thinking that this time next week we will have mum and dad with us.

The weather forecast for the weekend is dreadful, severe gales and a month’s worth of rain in 24 hours, nowhere near a bad as Brisbane has had though, so we can’t complain. It was recommended that we move everything into the house / garage to be on the safe side, which we did. Wind wise we have had worse since we arrived, but it rained lots and lots and felt very cold, in fact we have had the heating on, so mum and dad you might want to ensure you have a fleece in your suitcase. They do say that Melbourne can have 4 seasons in one day and I will agree with that.

Saturday we were up to do Tom's paper round, it was still raining intermittently and quite windy. What normally takes an hour to do, took over 2 hours. After dropping the kids at home, Jason and I set off to finish buying the bits we needed for Sam's trip to Canberra on Monday and food and bits for the weekend. It seemed to take us hours to get what we needed, although we did call in at Peppa and Owens for a coffee, which was a ploy to get keys from Owen as it is Peppa’s birthday on Sunday and Owen had arranged a surprise party with the assistance of Kerrie and I.

They are going out for breakfast into Mornington, Kerrie and I will let ourselves into there house, put up some decorations, and start organising the table, it was going to be a BBQ but as the weather is going to be pants we are cooking, I have done a chilli with French bread, tuna, onion and gherkin pasta (much nicer than it sounds trust me....Mollie loves it too) and a birthday cake, pictures will follow, but it will look like Mollies cake as I seem to do that one well. We all seem to have a signature dish and everyone is going to bring that dish as its a bring a plate party.

I did the kids pizza for tea, but after all the cooking I had done Jason and I had crisps and dip and of course a few beers.

Did we tell you that mum and dad will be here this time next week!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Countdown...... A very excited household

2008-11-20T22:10:00.000+11:00

Well Sam only has 4 more sleeps until he sets off for Canberra and we are trying to get him to have some early nights before they leave.

AND ...................1 week today my mum and dad leave the Uk to fly to Melbourne, they fly with Emirates, same flight as us via Dubai and land in Melbourne on Saturday the 29th November.

WE CAN NOT WAIT for them to arrive, only 9 more sleeps to go, we are all on countdown for them arriving.

Just make sure you sleep on the flight dad, the kids have lots planned for you and your first day.

Kids Update

2008-11-20T21:58:00.004+11:00

Sam has been really busy at school with his sporting activities, he played rugby in the CBD and his team won 1 and drew 2. He has also been playing rounders for the state and they were the winning school team.

He is on countdown at the moment for his trip to Canberra next week, they leave on Monday by coach and fly back the following Friday. Just need to pack and get everything ready for him this weekend.

Mollie had her class assembly on Monday, Jason went into work late and went, as I had a shift at work and we can not afford for me not to work, if I am offered a shift.

Attached is a video of her sentance ........

Catch Up

2008-11-20T21:45:00.004+11:00

Last weekend we helped Peppa and Owen move house, I helped with some packing on Thursday then the cleaning of the new house once they got the keys on Friday and the actual move on Friday. They had a few helpers on the Friday and Saturday which meant the move went nice and smooth, althought the wine and beer probably helped too.

Sunday we caught up on our jobs and did some shopping when we eventually got out of bed that is. late afternoon Hayely, Paul and Mille came for a few drinks, seems to be our usual Sunday theme now, it was great to see them as usual.

Monday was back to work for this week.

Trying to remember, it’s been a while

2008-11-13T21:53:00.002+11:00

Well we had the walk on the beach with the dog a couple of weeks ago and on the Sunday we had a wander and a drink on Main street before coming home and going and sitting in Hayley and Pauls garden for a couple of hours with a beer or two. During the week we both worked, which meant that we had little time at the weekend to do as we pleased.

Last weekend we didn’t do a great deal, Saturday night we should have been at a party, but we were just too tired, once we had picked up some food, brought the washing up to date and done our household chores.

Sunday was a lovely day, we went to Mornington Craft Market which is lovely and bought a lovely poppy seed salad dressing, whiskey marmalade and chill jam, we went with Peppa and Owen and had a leisurely stroll. When we arrived back we sat in our garden with Hayley and Paul and had a beer or two, seems to be a common theme here for Sundays.

This week I only had 3 shifts, Mon, Tue and Wed, Today I did some jobs here this morning, then went shopping with Peppa who is moving house this weekend so we were getting organised for that.

Busters First Time On the Leash Free Beach

2008-11-06T20:46:00.005+11:00

Having a Run First Swim

Humm Not sure about this

Time to Dry off

Mollie getting in on the action

Cooling Down

Another run

Moo getting in too

Where are you Nana and Grandad

2008-11-01T22:18:00.003+11:00

You said you would be here in November, so I am looking out for you, this way and that !!

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T20:49:00.006+11:00

Friday I was in work but for Orientation / training, it was meant to be 9 until 5, but finished at 3.15 which was great. Jason had come home from work early, we took our Halloween decorations to Peppa’s before picking up food and drink, getting back to hers just after 6.

Here are the pics of the evening, which was for the kids and they all had a great time, trick or trating first with the men, then party games.

Jason and Mic

Mollie and Poppy

Seamus and Finnigan

Diane

Lilac

The Girls

Party Games

Peppa has a baby bump, so we all wanted one, with balloons ONLY !

Last Week

2008-11-01T20:47:00.000+11:00

Sunday, we had a quiet day, Jason was incredibly hung over from Saturday night and not feeling too great. I went into Mornington with Tom for an hour, then we did some jobs round the house before wandering up to Hayley and Pauls to sit in there garden for a couple of hours. Pizza takeaway for tea before getting ready for school and work the following day.

We were both at work all week, which means not a lot gets done, I called round at Peppa’s on Tuesday and helped her pack a box ready for her move in a few weeks time. I also called in on Thursday with the kids after school and we arranged for them all to go trick or treating together on Friday. The Australians are not really in to Halloween and just see it as something from America and too commercialised.