Reflections Out Loud

Cakes to choose from (and some sentimental rambling)

2012-01-24T20:48:00.001+11:00

If I asked Olivia what colour party she would like she would say green. Can you imagine a green ballerina party?

Do you Canberrans remember in the early 90s when the Raiders were in the footy grandfinal? Do remember the raiders lime milk? On grandfinal day everything in our school canteen was green! Even the toast!

I have not asked Olivia what colour she would like the party to be therefore it is going to be pink and white. I have several cake ideas. I'm still not sure what I will go ahead with but I am loving the ruffle cakes that are everywhere. There are plenty of tutorials around too and they look pretty easy. I may do two small ones like these...

Amy Atlas

Sweetapolita

Or one larger one.

Martha Stewart

Little Sooti (I love this entire party! The colours are amazing!)

I also have loved this cake ever since I laid eyes on it. In fact, I love this whole party! I'm so pleased that I still have a few little girl parties to go!

Frog prince papeire

I tried this type of cake out for a friend a while back and it's very easy and looks effective.

Source

Or I have Debbie Brown's book with this cake in it. Olivia has not had a 3D cake yet.

On another note, please excuse my random sentimental ramblings!!

I'm on a count down until Jessica is one, the first year didn't seem to last long enough, especially as Jessica is ~~most likely~~ our last baby. I know I'll enjoy the toddler stage as much as this one, and life must go on.

I am treasuring special moments. Holding her longer at bed time and singing her an extra song. She really is a rascal though and knows just how to get everyone's attention. Yesterday the older girls were playing outside and she was standing with her faced pressed against the window ~~screaming at~~ calling to them. In the end I gave in and let her out. The other funny thing that she has started doing is hanging her tongue out at bath-time and licking up the water like a cat. I'm sure she'll grow out of this one soon enough but it is very funny!

I still have mixed feelings about having Jessica's birthday with Olivia's. I may still change it but we'll see. It will give me an extra opportunity to make another cake!

Anyway, off to give her an extra long cuddle and put her to bed :)
Ruth

Story Book Themed Party

2012-01-24T11:28:00.000+11:00

I know I'm not quite past the girls birthday party but I love the story book themed party I found here this morning! It is a must for Jessica's birthday or Olivia's 5th (but please don't tell her because she wants a pony party next!)

Cute frog in the pond

Gingerbread men

Cookies for grandma

Poisonous apples

Building supplies from three little pigs

I could have a story teller, make it a dress up party and have a Hansel and Gretel house cake!

I know it's a bit soon to start getting excited so I will settle down and get back to organising the ballerina party that is in just over 3 week, eek!!

Ruth

Beautiful cakes!

2012-01-22T23:34:00.001+11:00

I saw this cupcake today and wanted to remember it! I love the 'eat me' on top!

Source

And I love this cake!

Source

Why do I have such a soft spot for beautiful cakes??!!

Have a wonderful week!

Ruth

Parties

2012-01-20T22:20:00.004+11:00

Well it's probably no surprise that I love planning parties!

But today I was thinking I was just a little bit crazy as I was tying tiny little tutus onto cupcake toppers.

One of these days I'll do a good ole simple party with fairy bread and frog in a pond!

I am getting pretty excited about Olivia and Jessica's upcoming party. They are having a ballerina themed party. It's kind of really Olivia's party and Jessica's tagging along! I'm not sure what I'll do in future years....

Here are a few things that are inspiring me on Pinterest. You can find the links here.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Ruth

Simple Women's Daybook

2012-01-19T16:10:00.001+11:00

I haven't had much time over the past few days to write a blog post so I thought I'd share a quick day book entry. This idea comes from Simple Women's Daybook.

Outside my window...
My little rose garden has been flowering! I'm so pleased to have some colour in the garden. Some of my favourite roses are there such as Double Delight and Just Joey.

I am wondering...
How my friend is going with her new baby today ....?

I am thankful for...
Mum and Dad taking the older two girls to Sydney for a few nights.

From the kitchen...
Marinated meats and salads for a bbq at my place tonight.

I am wearing...
Denim skirt and a t-shirt.

I am creating...
Nothing at the moment *sigh* but I'm hoping to get back in the swing of things real soon and finish Jessica's cot quilt before the cooler weather sets in.

I am hoping...
The new dog does not pull my washing off the line and wreak havoc in the back yard!

I am hearing...
Olivia talking to her sisters on the phone. She just told them she loves them, so sweet!

Around the house...
Lots of things to be put away.

One of my favorite things...
Paint. I love paint and have so many things to paint at the moment!

I am looking forward to:
A fun day for Olivia tomorrow doing exactly what she wants.

A few plans for the rest of the week:

Catching up with a friend who has been living in Timor.

A birthday party

More cooking and trying new recipes.

More garden work.

Hopefully I'll get to watch a game or two of the Australian Open!
I hope you're enjoying your week!

Ruth

One little word.

2012-01-16T12:29:00.001+11:00

The one little word seems to be the new years resolutions for many in blogsphere. I have had a 'one little word' for the past few years and I've been thinking about what my word will be this year. I have thought about having something spiritual or a word that will focus on getting fit again but I keep coming back to the same word!

My word may seem trivial and totally unspiritual, and uninspiring to you but in this season of my life, having young kids and staying at home full-time, I tend to forget to do this. I get so busy trying to keep the house tidy and keep up with washing and organising that this little thing gets neglected.

Can you sense the stalling..... I don't usually share things like this!

Anyway, for the sake of keeping myself a little bit accountable but also letting my guard down a little I will share my one little word for 2012.

Hopefully throughout 2012 I can share how I'm going with this one little word :)

Have a wonderful week! And don't forget to play!

A time to blog!

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000+11:00

I know some of you are thinking 'how can you possibly have so much time to blog?' Here are a few reasons why I'm actually blogging more often at the moment:

- I was sick between Christmas and New Years and did several posts that I could publish later

- Every night I sit at Olivia's door while she falls asleep and I try and blog in that time.

- I'm trying very hard to give up on perfectionism! I used to write posts and cancel them because I thought they might sound dumb.

- I have a blogger app on my iphone so I can write posts wherever and whenever I get a spare min.

- Blogger has a new interface and it's SO MUCH quicker and easier! (The new laptop helps too!)

- I'm not trying to stick to a particular theme, imagine the audience. I'm happy to blog about whatever!

- I'm using whatever photos I have uploaded at the time and not worrying about their quality.

So, that's it.

No pressure blogging.

I'm really enjoying it!

Ruth

The Love of God

2012-01-12T11:18:00.000+11:00

This has been my husbands favourite poem for some time so I have printed it out to put on the wall. Apparently it comes from a song. I do not know who the writer is but it is beautiful, so true!

You can download it out here.

I hope you're enjoying your day! I'm stuck at home with a head cold and sore throat wishing I could be visiting my friends new baby!

Ruth

Prince

2012-01-11T20:36:00.003+11:00

Today we entered into a 15 year life changing commitment!

We bought a dog. We named him Prince!

We haven't brought him home yet but we will pick him up on the 14th February.

Sarah has been begging for a dog for years! We bought her a cat, 2 fish and 6 chickens but it just wasn't good enough! Josh was raised with dogs so he was a little more keen than I was. I was just straight out No! Dogs smell, we are not getting a dog!

But, Sarah continued begging.

She collected every reference book about dogs, and has written pages and pages and pages in her diary about what she has learnt about looking after dogs. Just before Christmas Josh and I gave in and said we'd buy a dog after we got back from our holiday.

As we were coming home I looked on all classifieds and found an add for the puppies. We called and sure enough there were two black and white Border Collies left.

The puppies are on a farm just near Cooma. Their mum and dad both work the sheep. Mum, ginger, is a ginger Border Collie and has the most beautiful gentle nature.

We didn't say yes immediately.

Josh never says yes immediately.

We talked it over all the way home and decided yes..... then no, then yes, then no, then researched some more. Josh wanted a slightly bigger dog and ginger is a small border collie. We compromised and bought a male in the hope that he grows slightly bigger than his mum (apparently the Dad is slightly bigger).

We're all very excited about the puppy but we are also feeling the weight of this decision. Someone is going to have to walk the dog. Everyday!

I hope you're having a good week!

Ruth

PS Any tips about raising a Border Collie would be greatly appreciated!!

Rose Cupcakes

2012-01-10T17:37:00.003+11:00

There are so many pretty cupcakes around at the moment but this one is one I want to learn! I found this long drawn out tutorial here and I am going to give it a try!

Also, in family news....we're going to go and have a look at this puppy tomorrow!

She's still just a baby and will not be ready to take home until mid February!

Signs for Olivia and Jessica's Party

2012-01-09T12:11:00.000+11:00

Olivia and Jessica's party is coming up in one month! I made these signs for their party and I am so excited to have worked out how to share them!

Download here

One of my friends said I had to have purple so here it is!

Download here

And grey and yellow for something different!

Download here

Hope you're enjoying some normality after the busy season!
Ruth

Favourite Blogs: House of Smiths

2012-01-05T18:35:00.002+11:00

My favourite type of blogs at the moment is DIY and organisational blogs (that have style). Shelly Smith puts all these things together in her blog House of Smiths. She has great taste and her motivation to get a job done is inspiring. She also has three adorable girls which makes a lot of her tutorials right up my alley.

I came across House of Smiths pantry makeover on another blog and have been a 'follower' every since.

Here is her pantry makeover:

From this:

To this:

Here are just another two of the many tutorials on her blog.

Framed bathroom mirror:

Hanging flower ball:

These will be great for a 4 year olds ballerina party I'm thinking!

Enjoy :)

Ruth

Favourite Blogs: House of Turquoise

2012-01-01T15:29:00.000+11:00

Another of my favourite blogs is House of Turquoise

The writer of the blog, Erin, uses her blog as a catalogue for the beautiful homes she finds on the Internet that have the colour turquoise. I have a soft spot for this colour but there is a particular shade I like best. I'm not sure whether it's aqua, teal or turquoise.

Here is our buffet decorated for Christmas:

And our tea trolley:

And of course this nativity:

Sarah's room has a turquoise theme and Olivia's and Jessica's room also have a lot of turquoise. Some day I'll take some pictures....

I hope you're all enjoying the summer break!

New Years Eve!

2011-12-31T13:00:00.002+11:00

You must be in shock with theses regular posts! I can't promise to keep it up but it's fun for now!

I know I say it every year but I cannot believe how fast this year has flown! It seemed to skip months. I'm sure it's a sign that I'm getting older when the years seem to go by so fast. Despite this year being a terrible year of natural disasters it has been a fantastic year for our family and I know I am blessed. The best thing of the year was of course the birth of Jessica.

We have got plans for a quiet night tonight. Originally we had thought we'd have some friends over and have a little party but since most of our friends have kids and will not want to keep their kids out late we decided to have a party just at home with the kids. We probably wont stay up until midnight because the kids are all sick with colds but we will pretend to.
Our plans for the night are to play a game, eat pop corn, play with sparklers, clink glasses of sparkling apple juice and to watch the 9.00 fire works. This afternoon we will make some special 2012 cupcakes to have as well. During the night, I am also going to get the older girls to fill out this little year in review. I thought it would be cute to look back on to remember 2011.

Free printable available here

I have also printed out these questions here and popped them in a jar for Josh and I to answer tonight over a game of chess.

Have a Happy New Year and a wonderful blessed 2012!

Ruth

Summer Holidays

2011-12-31T08:03:00.001+11:00

How are you coping with the school holidays? My cousin posted this morning that holidays are simply more washing, cleaning and eating. I must admit I do have times when I feel I am going to flip the lid but I also enjoy having the kids home and not having to be anywhere. This week between Christmas and New Years is always my favourite because Josh is home and we do not tend to make too many plans. I'm pleased that the week seems to have gone relatively slow too!

The kids and I have made a plan. A summer holiday plan full of stuff we would like to try and do while school is out. I'm hoping it will motivate me to plan the school holidays a little better and try and fit in as much as we can. We've crossed off a few already!

I do have a hidden agenda really and that's to get the kids up and chores done early so we can fit more into their day. I'm excited to see how it works. I may (or may not) let you know how it goes.

Hope you're enjoying a nice break!

Ruth

Favourite Blogs: Hello Naomi

2011-12-30T15:21:00.003+11:00

I was chatting with some friends the other day and they asked that I post up some of my favourite blogs.

I read so many blogs about different things. Sometimes I'll skip through the headings and other times quickly look at the pictures to see if anything jumps out at me. The blogs that I read in more detail change depending on what I am into at the time. Sometimes I'm into scrapbooking or craft and other times into organisation or interior design. Anyway, here is one that I do enjoy...

Hello Naomi

Hello Naomi's blog is mostly beautiful photos of the cakes, cupcakes and biscuits she makes. She is also a party planner. I must say that Naomi is an absolute perfectionist! Everything she does is flawless.

This post

Enjoy!

Better late than never!

2011-12-29T19:03:00.007+11:00

Sorry about the big blotted out name LOL

I pinned this idea on Pinterest. I would have much preferred, and it would have been much quicker, to order one from Etsy but by the time I thought about it, the order had closed :( I was pleased though to give my Photoshop Skills a brush up!

Hope you all had a wonderful blessed Christmas!

Ruth

Party Pooper

2011-12-29T15:00:00.008+11:00

I am sitting in the study feeling like a party pooper. The weather is beautiful for the first time in ages and Josh and the girls are outside on their new Slip 'n' Slide. I'm feeling very sorry for myself with a sore throat and a non-stop running nose! This is not supposed to happen in the middle of summer!

I managed to pick myself up and go and take some photos of them. They are so funny to watch.

I managed to pull myself together this morning to give our cubbie house a face-lift. I'm so pleased. It looks so much brighter now!

Last October 2011 we moved into this house and the garden was absolutely barren. The previous owners had thrown mulch over everything.

After the rains last year all the weeds started coming up and taking over. It was horrible. I'm so proud to say Josh has worked so hard almost every weekend to get the garden to a livable state. We just might have to start throwing some barbies!

I hope you're all enjoying the summer holidays!!

9 months

2011-11-26T21:36:00.004+11:00

Jessica is 9 (and a half) months! Time is flying by as always and before I know it, it will be her 1st birthday.

Some things about Jessica at 9 months:

*She is so snugly!! She is definitely the most snugly of all the girls. When she's tired she lays her head on my shoulder and stays there so long! It's beautiful.

*She is clingy. Most times I love that she is so clingy but other times I'm keen to pass her to someone or socialise her a bit. When I do try to pass her to someone she will grab on to me real hard and snuggle in. Precious!

*She's crawling and cautious. Jessica can crawl a little but because of the tiles (I think) she is very hesitant to go out of her comfort zone. She took her first few crawly steps the other day.

*She's either sweet or screaming! Jessica makes the cutest little noises and mimics with the sweetest little sounds. It's so cute! But, when she's not happy she has the highest pitch, horrible, not nice, scream!!

Pinterest has been keeping me busy and inspired recently. I have been spending far to much time on pinterest ooohhhing and aaahhhing over the beautiful projects and interiors. I have also completed a few projects, one of which is Jessica's room. It's such a beautiful little space now, I just want to sit in there and enjoy it. I was going to upload some pics but i can't so hopefully next time :)

Hope you're enjoying your weekend!

6 months!

2011-08-13T11:01:00.010+10:00

I would love to blog more often. I probably say that every time I post! It's hard to know what to blog sometimes. Do I blog what my family life, inspiration, what I'm working on or all the above?

How about all the above :)
A bit on my family...
Jessica had her 6 month birthday yesterday! I can't believe she's 6 months already! She doesn't look months old and she's not moving like a 6 month old but sure enough she is!I started her on food a few weeks ago. She was watching us whenever we were eating and was keen to start so I started her on some rice cereal. She hasn't rejected any food yet and seems to love vegies so she's off to a great start!
She mostly just lays around and will occasionally roll onto her tummy or back again but mostly is just happy to be laying in the centre of the hustle and bustle. She most definately does not like being left alone and will scream her lungs out until some one picks her up and she'll go silent! She's got us all wrapped around her little finger, but I guess that's one of the perks of being the youngest of 4 girls!

The past 6 months have been a little hectic but good. I was nervous about having 4 children but it's not that bad. The hardest times are when we're going out early in the morning and bedtimes.

In the making...
I do not have anything particular in the making at the moment. I haven't been about to organise that part of life just yet. Here's my latest cake creation which I was so pleased with! I used the recipe from Whisk Kid. You can also see a demo of her making the cake on Martha Stewart.This was for Sarah's 9th birthday. (I can't believe I have a NINE year old!)

Some inspiration...

From Pinterest of course!

House of Turquoise

Well there you have it - I posted!
Enjoy your weekend!

Overdue

2011-05-14T18:18:00.014+10:00

I am way overdue for a blog post!

Life's been good. God is good!

Jessica is now three months old! I can not believe how fast time is flying! I just want time to stop so I can take it all in. I could sit and hold her all day, especially when she coos at me. I think she's going to be a chatterbox.

Jessica is totally spoiled by her three older sisters and I have to tell them to stop picking her up every time she cries because she'll want to be carried all the time. There's always a fight over who is going to get Jessica up when she wakes. It's actually really nice to see how the girls talk to her and dote over her.

There are so many things inspiring me at the moment and I feel swamped by all the things I want to do, but that's okay. One thing at a time I keep telling myself!

I am trying to do something with Jessica's room. At the moment it's very thrown together. I have searched high and low for some nice white shelves to put these pictures on but couldn't find any so Josh and I are having a go at making some.

I love the colours!! I also started a quilt in similar colours just before Jessica was born which I need to finish.

Sarah is growing up now, and I am collecting bits and pieces to give her room a makeover for her birthday based on these colours.

Hannah is still sharing a room with Olivia at the moment but we are planning to move her into her own room soon. I haven't even thought about her room yet, but I am planning her birthday party. I've seen this baking party and are using similar colours and themes.I'd like to also somehow incorporate the silhouette theme into the party also. We'll see.

Then there's the ongoing project of our house and garden! We have pretty much landscaped the backyard to something that we can work with. It would drive me crazy before. Every time the kids would go outside they would bring mulch and dirt in, but now we have grass! I've never been so excited about grass in my life!

Anyway, very much a thrown together update of this and that! I'll leave it there!

I hope you're enjoying your weekend!

Jessica Rose

2011-03-07T08:56:00.004+11:00

Jessica is now three weeks old! I can't believe how time is flying! She has spent most of the first 2 1/2 weeks sleeping, eating or crying which was exhausting! We think she was having sucking withdrawals. When she was born she had a blister on her finger from sucking!The past few days Jessica has been much more settled and has been happy to lay and look around for short times. It's been nice :) She's definitely the most smiley baby we have had! I just need to catch it on camera.
We're loving having a newborn again. She has got us all wrapped around her little finger! The girls absolutely love her and want to cuddle and hold her every opportunity they get.The photos are by Lisa Ceely Photography. She's a very talented photographer and also great with newborns. I had not realized how much patience was needed to be a newborn photographer. Lisa would change her pose while trying to keep her asleep! Then put her back to sleep if she woke up. Hope you all have a good week!

Oobi

2011-02-18T10:08:00.007+11:00

I'm a proud mum and thought I'd share a little of what Hannah and Olivia were up to late last year :)

My very talented sister-in-law was asked to photograph the 2011 Autumn/Winter collection for Oobi, an Australian children's clothing company. She asked if I would be happy for Olivia and Hannah to be models. Of course I jumped at the idea and it was a lot of fun! Jen has an amazing eye for detail and the clothing is beautiful!

Here are some of the photos from the Oobi website.
Hopefully I can get a chance to post today about my new little pink bundle and share some photos but right now I need a new black cardigan!

Simple Women's Daybook

2011-02-11T09:52:00.005+11:00

I've been thinking about posting recently but have not really gotten as far as publishing it. I know heaps of people who write blogs because they love to write but I'm not much of a writer and end up deleting my post after writing it!

Anyway, my friend reminded me in her post here about the Simple Women's Daybook and it's an easy way to share a little about what's going on here so here goes :)

Outside my window...
My new pergola which I am SO happy with. It's pretty much transformed my backyard.

I am thinking...
About what it will be like with a newborn in the house again. Excited, scared and nervous all at the same time!

I am thankful for...
My family who have given me so much support in the later part of this pregnancy! Mum's been doing my ironing, Josh has been picking up stuff off the floor cause he knows I can barely reach it! Kids are SO excited about the new addition!

From the kitchen...
Lots of bulk cooking over the past few days. Batches of freezable cookies for the kids lunches, chicken, leek and mushroom casserole, bolognese, etc.

I am wearing...
Any guesses?! LOL! One of the two alternating outfits I have left. Purple swirly maxi-dress with black cardi.

I am creating...
A floor rug/cot quilt for my little one.

I am going...
To be induced tomorrow morning!!!

I am reading...
Some toddler book - can't remember what it's called. It's about routines with toddlers.

I am hoping (PRAYING)...
Everything goes smoothly tomorrow!

I am hearing...
Rain - and I think Olivia might have just gone outside! She loves to get wet!

Around the house...
Little messes everywhere!

One of my favorite things...
For so many reasons, my iphone at the moment. Keeps the kids entertained when necessary and is like my little portable Internet :)

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Well, heaps!!
- Picking the kids up this arvo and dropping them to Mum's for the weekend.
- Dinner for two with my hubby (probably at home!)
- Induction 8.00am tomorrow morning
- A really steep re-learning curve!
- Hearing specialist appointment for Hannah (Poor girl has her mother's problem I suspect!)
- Dentist appointments for Sarah and Hannah (I think they'll need teeth out!)
- Lots of adapting!
- And most excitingly.....Cuddling and getting to know my new little pink bundle!

Have a lovely weekend!

Choc-ripple cake and Snow Flake Garland.

2010-12-07T08:59:00.005+11:00

I used to love Chocolate Ripple Cake as a kid! I made one this morning and plan to introduce it to the girls for dessert tonight! It's so simple that the girls could easily make it!

There are heaps of recipes on the Internet. I started with the most basic I could find on Taste.com.au

I also came across this sweet tutorial this morning. It's so simple and sweet. It's another good Christmas decoration the kids could make (and I'd be happy to hang!)

Just thought I'd share :)

Sock Calendar

2010-12-06T09:06:00.007+11:00

I've seen some great advent calendars on the Internet and have always wanted to make one to count down the days to Christmas. I had planned to put it off until another year when Hannah came home from a friends house asking if we could make a sock calendar. I'd seen this one by

Martha Stewart around so I had a bit of an idea of what she was talking about.

This is what we made on Saturday. It took a while to design the tags in Word and come up with the scriptures but I figured if I did it properly I could use it again next year, or use the the tags for something else. I'm also planning on using the tags for Christmas gifts.

The girls love it! Each morning they've been waking each other up to open the next sock. Sarah reads the scripture and while they eat their chocolate Josh or I explain the scripture. It's been a bit of a trial to keep Olivia away from the chocolates! She hasn't eaten any of the other chocolates yet but she's come pretty close. I'm hoping she'll get the idea after a few days!

Here are some other pretty advent calendars I've seen around:

From Skip to my Lou - also has a tutorial.

This is one of my favorites and is from Little Scandinavian

These are magnetic boxes by Ali Edwards

Here are also some photos of our lounge room in our new home! - Finally :)

Hope you're enjoying preparing for Christmas and not getting too overwhelmed!

Christmas Inspiration

2010-12-03T10:17:00.013+11:00

I love Christmas and thought I'd share some of the things that I am loving this month.

The girls and I have started baking a few bits and pieces but have not started decorating the house just yet - hopefully tonight :)

I'm looking forward to making a gingerbread house again next week.

Natasha found here, is a huge inspiration to me on Christmas cooking and she paints her icing! This is her gingerbread house from last year and I can't wait to see what she does this year!

I'm also love pretty much anything by Glorious Treats! She has heaps of tutorials on her blog for making gingerbread, decorating biscuits and even how to make these cute snowflakes.

I've been loving these stocking here also by Camille Roskelley and just this week she uploaded a PDF pattern for them in her shop. I think they're gorgeous!

Another PDF pattern, not so Christmassy! I'm making some of these for baby girl 4. They're from Sweet Pea Patterns on Etsy.

And one more recipe for this cute Christmas Biscuit House found at taste.com.au. It looks really easy and I think the girls will love making it!

I think that's enough for now. I'm off to get something more productive done!

Pretty headbands, etc.

2010-11-22T09:18:00.004+11:00

I'm totally swamped by sewing projects at the moment and I'm thoroughly enjoying the challenge of getting a lot of projects finished by Christmas! Reports are finished for school and there's so much organised for the end of the year that I don't have to do much planning. I only have 8 days left of work for the year! Yes, I'm counting down!

These headbands have become my latest craze. They're so easy to make and they look stunning! I'm planning on making them in all sorts of colours. One of the many benefits of having girls!

This week I'll be 30 weeks pregnant. I have heaps to do in her room before she's born (we have to settle on a name too!). I'm leaving most of the nesting until January so it can keep me occupied during the last few weeks. One thing I'd like to do is to paint her cot and change table white.

Things are going well with the new house, although I still haven't gotten around to taking photos! We've signed up this morning to get a pergola built in January and finalising who we'll go through for air-conditioning. I'm hoping the aircon will be in by February as bub is due on the 2nd!

This little girl has kept me busy also! She's into all things 'princess' at the moment and is working on wearing out the Cinderella DVD! Unfortunately she's not keen to have her photo taken and will not stand still for 3 seconds!

Hope you're getting a good start to the week!

Ready to sew!

2010-11-13T20:21:00.003+11:00

Regular posting! This is a new thing! Let's see how long I can keep it up for!

Today was a hot day. I'm not even sure what the temperature was, but it certainly was a sign a things to come! After a friends 40th Olivia came home and flaked out on our bed!! I was keen to join her as the others had gone swimming but I had finishing reports in mind!

I now feel like I'm on holidays! Having reports finished is a huge burden lifted and I can finally focus on some more exciting projects. I have a few crafty things planned for the next few weeks, but one at a time. The first thing is to make a Christmas present for my newest nephew with this gorgeous fabric!

I've left the fabric sitting on my bench for the past few days! I love the colours!

Hope you're enjoying your weekend!

Bit of this and that...

2010-11-12T09:12:00.004+11:00

We've moved in to our new home and are feeling quite settled. We've still go quite a bit to do on the outside of the house such as a planting a garden, building a pergola and relaying some pavers to help with drainage but the inside feels like home.

When we first moved in we put our bookshelf into this little nook in the wall and the dark green colour screamed for a new colour! We've now painted it off white and are so happy with it we are thinking of using it to house photos and just a few books.

I'm loving these quilts and am on the lookout for a nice one layer cake to make them out of. I'm thinking that I'll use one for a rug for the new baby and the other for snuggling on the couch on cool nights ;)

Hope you're enjoying this gorgeous weather!!!!

Time flies....

2010-11-09T11:11:00.003+11:00

Time has flown by recently and I don't even know where to start with a blog post. I think I'll start with some of my flickr favourites :) I love the photography on flickr as well as the cake and craft inspiration!

1. Pistachio Macaroons, 2. Untitled, 3. pink lemonade!, 4. Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength., 5. Untitled, 6. Untitled, 7. what summer means to me..., 8. Untitled, 9. Untitled

I have the sewing bug at the moment and am dying to get the sewing machine set up again!! End of year reports are nearly out of the way so maybe next week I can share some projects that I'm hoping to get into.

Hope you're enjoying your week!

Speaking of new cars...

2010-09-22T13:03:00.008+10:00

Well this is a first! Almost a post a day for the past few days! I don't expect to keep this up! At the moment I'm in procrastination mode - well I'm not really procrastinating, there's not a lot I can pack until next week when we move into Mum and Dad's. I've done almost everything else. There's always things I can do to get ready, but I work best when there's more than a box or two to pack.

Back to cars...

Look what Olivia picked up for $5 at the Salvo's yesterday! She has not (happily) got out of it since we brought it home.

I think I mentioned in an earlier post how much I'm going to miss my garden! Well I am! Here are two reasons why!

Baby girls, etc.

2010-09-21T15:47:00.008+10:00

I can't believe I am 21 weeks pregnant tomorrow! This pregnancy is definitely flying by! There have been some pretty big changes necessary with the coming arrival of our 4th baby girl and I think that is why time is going faster than usual. Aside from buying our new home, we bought a new car on Sunday! It's very exciting and I'm even getting the hang of driving a manual again.

Back to the topic of baby girls…

I absolutely love the hair bands and nappy covers found in the links below! Take a look if you dare!

Shabby Lane Boutique

Honey and Child

Newborn Photo Props

Mum will be in the US later this year so I'll keep her on the lookout or maybe even order these items to where she is staying! I don't think you can have too many little girls and dressing them up is a bonus! Josh may disagree but he's got his double garage now J

Master bedroom inspiration.

2010-09-20T09:15:00.000+10:00

One very exciting thing about moving is an (almost) fresh pallet for design. Obviously we can not go and buy new furniture but the house comes with it's own style.

The new home comes with with brownish-beige curtains and a modern grey-brown carpet in the master bedroom. I've been toiling with the idea for some time to modernise our master bedroom and not have it quite so feminine so this is the perfect opportunity to begin! I've been on the lookout recently for a different colour dooner cover to begin with. Here are some pictures that are giving me inspiration :)

I really like the tones in this picture. Very neutral.

Would love this mirror in my ensuite :)

Adding beige and brown to white on white.

Love this shade of blue!

Mixed feelings....

2010-09-20T00:00:00.000+10:00

It's been a very busy past few weeks here. We have been very busy selling our first home (of 10 years) and buying a home with a little more room for our growing family. I have very mixed feelings: Happy and excited of course about our new home but sad about what we're leaving behind.

Our old home has been perfect for our needs the past 10 years and the garden has been a major part of our family life. Our large deck has been used all ye

ar round and is blissful on a beautiful spring day such as

today! The kids have grown particularly attached to certain trees and will miss our wonderful neighbours on all three sides! Our blossoms are all in full bloom and the garden is looking the best it ever has! The camellia's I've planted have taken off for the first time ever! I feel a bit sentimental about leaving the garden but not so much th

e house. I feel it's time to move on.

It's been such a quick spare of the moment decision! One day as I was standing in the girls room and planning how I would fit them in, it dawned on me that I could not do it without putting the two youngest in the same double bed. That was about the beginning of our very short house hunt! We visited only about 10 houses in total and found our new home that suited our needs perfectly. We put our house on the market that same week and it was sold in about 10 days!

Cakes

2010-05-18T09:46:00.007+10:00

I haven't really been in the cake decorating mood recently, but am gearing up to make Hannah's cake next week. She has chosen this cake from Debbie Brown's enchanting and magical cakes. I enjoy the challenge and do my best not compare my end result with the picture in the book .I will have to get myself organised as the bed head and parts of the cake are made in advance and we're in the middle of moderation and report writing at school - always very busy times and the least enjoyable part of being a teacher (I think).

While having a look around the cake websites I saw this tutorial in how to make a train topper. It shows just how simple cake decorating can be!
Anyway, my Dora obsessed girl has had enough of watching Dora for this morning so I'd better get back to it :)

A Cookie and a Quote

2010-04-24T10:42:00.004+10:00

I love this quote I read today here - very timely :)

"Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it may not always be so. One day I shall dig my nails into the earth, or bury my face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want, more than all the world, your return." ~ Mary Jean Iron

Isn't this the most beautiful cookie! It inspires me to get out my cake making things (almost).

Glorious Treats

Scrapbooking Urge :)

2010-04-03T11:19:00.000+11:00

The printer was at the repairer when I got the urge to scrapbook the other night. Fortunately I had a few sets of photos ready to go and mangaed to get a few layouts done in a few hours. Here are two that I managed to get photos of. (Sorry they're a bit blurry - the kids put finger prints on the lens which I didn't notice until I uploaded the pics later on.)

Hope you're having a wondeful long weekend!

Kids' Rooms

2010-03-29T10:27:00.000+11:00

(unknown)

We have some changes in the air at the moment. Olivia is ready for a bed and I'm going to be moving her in with Hannah, which means Sarah will have her own room. This is very exciting for everyone. I'm wondering what sort of theme to give Sarah - the obvious one would be animals but I can't think of how to prettify cheetas, snakes and cats.

(Spearmint baby)

Pottery Barn

Love this...made with coffee filters :)

(AliceW)

Happy Monday :)

Dinner tonight...

2010-03-22T11:51:00.000+11:00

I haven't posted in so long so I thought I'd just quickly share a new favourite recipe. Basically you marinate the fish and put it in the freezer to barbecue or make a curry with at a later date. The whole family loves it and it's so quick! It's from Donna Hay FEB/MARCH issue 2010. (Sorry I have no pictures.)

Marinade Recipe: Coriander, mint and lemon fish.

Process the following ingredients until smooth:

8 cloves garlic, crushed

2 cups chopped coriander leaves

1/4 cup lemon zest

1/2 cup vegetable oil

sea salt and cracked pepper

Poor over 1.6kg of white fish fillets and toss to coat.

Divide into 4 portions and freeze for up to 3 months.

Fish and Pea Curry Recipe:

Heat 1T vegetable oil in a deep sided frying pan over high heat. Add 1t each chopped ginger, ground coriander and 1 chopped red chilli. Cook for 1 min.

Add 1 portion of (the above) fish and cook for 2 mins. Add 1 cup coconut milk, 2t fish sauce, reduce heat and cook for 5 min. Add 200g sugar snap peas and cook for 2 min. Serve with coriander and steamed rice. Serves 2

Have a good week!

Organisation +

2009-12-27T07:06:00.000+11:00

I love everything about this pantry!!!

Country Living

Season's Greeting

2009-12-24T10:40:00.000+11:00

Gift tags and hair clip tutorial

2009-12-23T09:18:00.001+11:00

I ran out of gift tags this morning and found these printable ones here. I love the colours!

I also found the tutorial for this hairclip also. I think I'm beginning to love felt! Hopefully going to finally make our gingerbread house today! It's been put off too many times.

Christmas Colour Theme

2009-12-22T06:56:00.000+11:00

Do you have a colour scheme at Christmas?

I'd like to, but at the moment it's difficult because my walls are all still pink. I'm slowly persuading Josh to let me paint them - then I'd love a white Christmas. If I can't have one outside then I'll have one inside!

For the Christmas Eve dinner with my family I'm using red and white. I love the classic but fresh look of red and white.

I think a duck egg blue and red Christmas would be nice too!!

1. ROCKIN ROBIN, 2. Christmas dummy cake, 3. a 'whatnot' gleeful tree..., 4. red + white twine, 5. Snow Wreath, 6. zipping up me boots!, 7. Untitled, 8. Brook and drake, 9. Untitled, 10. Christmas Cookies-Snow Flakes, 11. sneek peek_1, 12. Untitled, 13. raspberry and pink peppercorn macarons, 14. rag swags and wreaths (4), 15. peppermint bouquet, 16. sophia's winter placemat

Sarah's adventure...

2009-12-21T10:30:00.000+11:00

My baby left for India today. I'm missing her already - it's a strange feeling....

I got a call a few minutes ago to let me know she's already having an adventure. Anyone who travels with my Mother has an adventure!!! Just on the flight from to Sydney she sat up to a feast and ate the pilot's lunch and one of the hostesses took up an offering for the orphange!

We gave her our old camera for Christmas and she'll be keeping a daily journal while she's away. I can't wait to hear more!

Here's Mum and Dad at the airport.
Now to finish off the a 'family tree' centre piece, when I probably should be cleaning!!!

December Happenings

2009-12-18T08:48:00.000+11:00

No more preschool for Hannah.

She is so excited about going into kindy next year.

Hannah has had a wonderful year of preschool. She had a young teacher, Amanda, who was enthusiastic and did a really good job. Hannah also made a little friend, Olivia, who I think will be a 'long time' friend. They clicked and are totally inseperable. Olivia is a sweet little girl too.

Here are some pictures from Hannah's end of year concert.As promised, here's Olivia's dress and pantaloons I made last week.My three beautiful girls (who never seem to look at the camera at the same time!)The Sunday School fete last week.Poor Olivia!

Now to get Sarah ready for India!!! She's so excited!!! Three sleeps to go!!!

Teary

2009-12-17T13:56:00.000+11:00

I'm sitting here checking out some blogs between cooking for Sarah and Mum's early Christmas dinner. Sarah is in the family room singing away as she's making a kite.

I'm going to miss that girl!

Anyone who has been with Sarah for 5 minutes would know she sings all day, every day. It's usually a sign she's happy and content.

As I'm in here blogging my eyes are welling up! I'm going to miss her. I know she's crazy and I'll enjoy a nice bit of serenity in the house for 10 days but still, she's my baby.

She's going to have a ball over at the orphanage and that's why I'm so happy to let her go. New experiences, new friends and I know it will impact her life greatly just as it did mine over 16 years ago!

A fairly normal day for Sarah...

Well, she's all mine today. I dropped Hannah off at preschool and then Olivia off a my Mum's for the morning. I took Sarah out for a lemonade and cookie just to chat with her. We talked about all sorts of things while her mind quickly raced from one subject to another, asking questions.

We then went shopping to grab some groceries for dinner. She was her usual self. Today - riding a horse through the shops. Of course it was a noisy horse which kept rearing up and 'neighing' all the time.

When we got home she found a 'river'. One of my sprinklers must have had a hole and there's a large puddle of water on the grass. She made a creek in hope that a family of frogs will come by to live.

The weather began to get windy so she came in and made a kite, about the time the wind died down. She made a cat and a something else (not sure what it is). The winds back so she's heading out to fly her kite!

This is a very typical day for Sarah. Darting from one thing to another and singing as she goes. She has to be one of the most spontaneous, imaginative, children I know.

I'm blessed to have her!

Bit of this and that

2009-12-08T09:11:00.000+11:00

Busy, busy, busy recently- as everyone is as the end of the year seems to accelerate towards us.

Last week I managed to get the sewing machine out and have been making some things.

I appliqued on some singlets. Made Olivia a nightie and bloomers set and also a pretty summer dress. I'm really happy with the way they all turned out (maybe some photos to come).

I'm hoping in the next week and a bit to make one more dress for Olivia and make this pattern, out of the fabrics below. It will be a part of the girls' Christmas presents and hopefully be good for conference. Hannah loves yellow these are her fabrics. Sarah chose the fabric below for hers. Good choice hey!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Some updates on the family as I've decided to combine the blogs instead of having a separate family blog...

Sarah is heading of to India in less than two weeks. I'm trying not to think too much about it as I get teary at the thought of her being so far away for 10 days and also not having her here on Christmas morning. I'm hoping though that she'll get a good taste of what it is like in a third world country and an appreciation for what we have. I know that in one week in the Orphanage she will develop some life long memories and maybe even friendships.

Hannah has had a wonderful year of preschool. She has loved every minute, loved her teachers and is more than ready for kindy next year. She has made a best friend that she has had for the whole year which is really sweet.

Olivia is turning out to be quite the chatterbox. I can't understand everything she says but she's working at it. She's putting about 3 words together at the most. She has also decided that she prefers to lay down and let me cover her at bedtime rather than have to put herself to bed after screaming - a welcomed change ;)

Josh and I celebrated our 9th anniversary last month. Wow, time has flown!

Have a lovely week!

Summer holidays

2009-11-17T06:10:00.000+11:00

I can't believe it's only 5 more weeks until the summer holidays!

I love the holidays but I do find that if there's no structure, the days pass quickly with nothing done that is out of the ordinary. I love this idea! It's so quick and simple and would help me to put more structure in the long hot summer days.

Found here.

Here's another idea:

Very Mary.

Inside each little flap is something to do on that day. I guess you could make it for the kids or for yourself.

Some holiday prompts can be found here, such as:

- make a Christmas card for your teacher

- hug everyone in your family

- write I love you notes to your family and put them under their pillows.

- say a prayer for the world's hungry people.

Have a great week!
xo

Wooden Fishing Game

2009-11-06T13:32:00.000+11:00

Olivia went down perfectly again today (I think she was so tired after her play-date). It was a perfect opportunity to get some more painting done on the deck.....but I got side tracked ;)

Instead I found this game. Isn't it cute! It's from here. I found it via the Crafty Cow. I had to share it!

I have a soft spot for wooden toys. It seems so easy to make too! I'm thinking this may be a good project for the summer holidays.

Reminder

2009-11-05T20:16:00.000+11:00

I have been reading Sheye's blog for about a year now and everytime it's a reminder of the frailty of life and the blessing of family. Her young daughter Ava lost her life in the car on a hot summer's day. Sheye wants us to spread the word of Ava's Rule. You can read Sheye's blog here.

Things making me smile!

2009-11-04T12:32:00.000+11:00

* Spring! I love spring!!! I'm not so keen on the heat, but I love this time of year. The flowers, the picnics the clothes drying weather and the longer days!

* I have a white front door frame! The front door frame has been bugging me ever since we bought this house (almost 10 years ago!). The other day I decided that was it and painted it. I'm really not a very good painter, but at least it's done. It's brightened up the entry too! Would love to do the door, but I don't think I'd be happy with the result.

* I've begun painting the pergola. It's a huge job so I'm really just happy to get it done bit-by-bit.

* The garden's looking good. We've done heaps of gardening and tidying up outside. I'm so pleased that things are finally starting to come together.

* Olivia went down for her nap today with NO screaming!! So excited!! She has always been an angel, but for the past two-three weeks she has stood in her cot and screamed. We just kept being consistent and doing the same thing, and today, totally out of the blue she shocked me by going down perfectly! YAY!

* I'm getting a bigger table! Not brand new but it's an extendable one and we could squash 10 of us around it.

* Some projects I've got going at the moment - will hopefully show you soon.

* These pictures:1. DanDuchars1, 2. Picnic cutlery roll - open, 3. summer quilts-ready for a picnic, 4. peppermint bouquet, 5. cute, 6. Chocolate Gingerbread Men, 7. for ava, 8. _pink-room_main, 9. for Adelaide's birthday

Pom Pom Flowers

2009-10-27T13:05:00.000+11:00

I love these pom pom flowers. I have used them to decorate several times this year and I love how they can transform a room so quickly.

Just thought I'd share the link I use for making them over at Martha Stewart.

(Martha Stewart)

(Martha Stewart)

(Ruby Press)

(Lilly Ella)

kiss the groom

(once wed)

Gingerbread House Inspiration

2009-10-22T09:27:00.000+11:00

I am SO keen to do a Gingerbread house again this year!

Last night I was looking around on flickr and here's some of the inspiration I found. I've decided to stick to a colour theme of pink white and maybe a little aqua and red.

1. Pink Rose Glitter Cottage, 2. Candy Cane Ice Skates in White, 3. Pink M&M's, 4. Gumdrop aqua cupcake cottage, 5. Gingerbread House Supplies, 6. Sugary Advent Calendar, 7. Ballet slippers, 8. Tiny strawberry cookies make me smile, 9. The dollhouse at Christmas, 10. I'll drink to that, 11. OH Homer - House, 12. Christmas dummy cake, 13. Decorated Snowflake Cookies, 14. Casinha Tilda, 15. Gingerbread House, 16. CC-Candy-Cottage

I'm on the lookout now for pink and aqua lollies!

Preschool Mini Album

2009-10-20T08:08:00.000+11:00

I finished Hannah's this album for Hannah yesterday. It was heaps of fun and quite simple which meant I could get a bit done here and there.

As i said earlier, the original idea came from Elizabeth Kartchner. She's also putting a book out and you can catch a glimpse of it here.

Gorgeous Wedding!

2009-10-19T22:19:00.000+11:00

Would you look at this wedding! It's so fairytale and gorgeous!

Photos from Style Me Pretty

Journal Entry

2009-10-17T13:27:00.000+11:00

Outside my window: The clouds are coming over and probably bringing the rain. Sarah and Hannah are pulling together any resources they can find in the backyard to make something.

I am thinking: I can't believe another year is nearly over!

I am thankful for: My family. Olivia showing some 'tidy girl' traits. A really good week at school for Sarah - she's growing up all the time. I'll miss the little girl.

From the kitchen: Brownies in the oven. Christmas pudding preparation.

I am creating: a mini album for Hannah's preschool year.

I am going: to enjoy this quiet Saturday.

I am reading: not much at the moment.

I am hoping: Mum and Dad are enjoying New York!

I am hearing: The girls screaming and laughing outside.

Around the house: A typical Saturday afternoon. Olivia sleeping, kids playing, Josh has gone off to a friends to service their cars.

One of my favourite things: These new gratitude digital brushes at house of 3. Planning on getting the kids to write down something this week.

Plans for the rest of the week: Hoping to fit in some scrapping time here and there. Lots of play dates for the kids next week. Mum and Dad coming home - YAY!

A picture to share:

Sarah showing her gratitude.

The Tinsel Trading Company

2009-10-16T16:00:00.000+11:00

Mum and Dad are in New York at the moment.

Mum called the other day and asked me to find some places she must try to go to.

I think she should go here! What do you reakon!

According to their website it's Martha Stewart's 'favourite store in the whole world!'

Photos from 'Such Pretty Things"

Why don't we have anything like this here!!

Mum FYI it's at:

The Tinsel Trading Company

1 West 37th Street

New York, NY 10018

212.730.1030

Playmates MIA :(

2009-10-15T14:21:00.000+11:00

Today Hannah went back for her last term of preschool. She was so excited and had made a little present for her preschool friend. Olivia on the other hand is not enjoying having her playmates away. She loved having both of her big sisters home in the holidays. She keeps asking to see ssss-awah (aka Sarah) and awah (aka Hannah). I put a Dvd on for Olivia after her nap and she got excited. "Awah!" she said. I think she thought Hannah must have been home.

Today I started on a mini album for Hannah's preschool year. I'm scraplifting this one here.

Here's another layout I finished this week.

A layout and a Challange

2009-10-14T13:17:00.000+11:00

Recently I have had a chance to get a few layouts done. I have been trying to get out of my comfort zone and try different colours and textures etc. I've really enjoyed it, and am mostly pleased with my layouts.
The rolled paper flowers shown are the ones I was telling you about here.
---------------------
Notice on the right I have a blinkie from 'lime zest'.
They have begun fortnightly challanges. This week's is to include their blinkie on your blog. The prize for the challange is November's Full Tart (November scrapbooking kit.) So, if you're into scrapbooking, head over and grab the blinkie.

Rolled Paper Rose Tutorial

2009-10-13T18:13:00.000+11:00

Just thought I'd share a tutorial I found for these pretty paper roses. I've put some on my most recent layout which I may post later. They're so easy to make and can be cut with scolloped scissors for a different effect. You can find the tutorial here at 'Lime Tart'.

School Holiday Love

2009-10-12T16:44:00.000+11:00

I love school holidays.

I love having the kids at home and doing things with all of them.

I love going away as a family and having them make new discoveries - like electric fences and goats and shetlin ponies.

I love letting them stay up a little later and watching movies together.

I love not having the morning rush and letting the kids sleep until they wake up.

but...

I must admit, I was very happy to return to 'normality' today!

----------------------------------
The photo above is one of my favourite pics from our recent trip to Tumut. Josh took the girls out to see the goats one morning before breaky and took this photo. I don't know what it is about it, but it's a favourite of mine!

The heart of my home ♥♥♥

2009-08-22T10:11:00.000+10:00

♥ The heart of my home is the kitchen. Whenever we're entertaining, our guests always hover around the kitchen and chat. The kids are either sitting up at the kitchen bench and chatting with me while I'm preparing food or wanting to help. Olivia's always hugging my legs while I'm trying to cook or wash up and Josh, well he is always looking in the pantry for something to eat!

♥ Today we're getting stuck into the kitchen. It's terrible really! The doors and handles are starting to fall off and things are looking a bit grim, so our aim today is to fix up a few things to help the kitchen last a bit longer. We have no idea whether we will eventually stay and renovate or move so we don't want to overhaul the kitchen until we've made up our mind!

♥ Anyway, I love kitchens! Here are a few of my favourites from here and there.
Have a lovely weekend ♥

Paper dolls

2009-06-29T10:16:00.000+10:00

Did you play with paper dolls when you were young? I did. I've still got a vintage one tucked behind my buffet and hutch that my Grandmother gave me when I was young. I've never managed to bring myself to open it. Yesterday I stumbled upon these sweet Paper Dolls. They are lovely and it brings back so many memories to see Hannah playing with them as I did.

So far it's been a good start to the week, but not at all how I planned. My Mondays are usually reserved for a top to bottom house cleaning but I had a severe case of procrastination instead. I did manage to clean the oven and do some baking!

Anyway, no little pixie came in the night and did it for me so I'd better get back to it now :)

Today

2009-06-26T13:18:00.000+10:00

Out my window... Beautiful sun streaming onto the deck - beckoning me to grab a blanket and sit outside.

Thankful for... Olivia warming to Mum and Dad over the last month.

Inspired by... The thought 'serve with joy'.

Listening to... The microwave defrost tonights meal - other than that... blissful silence!

Looking forward to... Playing a board game with the girls tonight.

Making... The girls some blankets. I'm embroidering cute little mice on them.

Reading... Lots of books on the go at the moment - need to choose one to settle down with.

Wishing... That this headache would go.

Mermaid Cake

2009-06-01T19:36:00.000+10:00

I don't have a lot of time to post right now, but I just wanted to show you some pictures of the 'mermaid cake' I made for my daughter's 5th birthday.

The pattern is one of Debbie Browns from her 'Enchanting Magical Cakes' book. I was really pleased with the way it turned out too considering if didn't take as long as I would have imagined.

Sweet knitting!

2009-05-14T11:13:00.000+10:00

I recently stumbled upon these cute knitted cupcakes at Patchwork Pottery. They're made by RecycleMicol. I've searched the Internet for some knitted cupcake patterns and found this one. I think I'll have to leave it on Mum's coffee table with some yarn - although I think these one's here are just incredibly cute in their little box! I love that crochered flower! Does anyone know if they're difficult?

Organisation inspiration.

2009-04-02T20:39:00.000+11:00

The past few days have been hectic so I've got one thing on my 'to do' list today - get some organisation back into this home :)

First two photos unknown - sorry.

Lovely Design

My little koala

2009-04-02T12:27:00.000+11:00

Olivia is such a little koala.

Anyone who has been around her for 5 minutes will have observed that Olivia does not easily let go! She holds on to our clothes and wraps her legs around us. I'm sure this comes from being carried around by the girls. She holds them so tight they can't drop her!Here's a layout I did yesterday. It's inspired by Elizabeth Kartcher my all time favourite scrapper! I love how she uses colours and embellishments. In her ask Lizzy column in Creating Keepsakes she talks about how she chooses colours. I had a major 'a ha!' moment and am keen to give her ideas a go. As for my seven things this week...I've so far managed to:
1. Give family lots of hugs and kisses - but can always do better!
2. Relaxed bedtimes with a story and snuggles - most nights - but not all.
3. Scrap a page for Olivia - yep!
4. Get into the garden - ah, no :(
5. A meal from my new slow cooker - made a beef casserole was really nice but a bit too tender!
6. Try an animal from fondant - tried elephants and failed. Will try an easier one next week.
7. Cooking with the girls - making butterfly cookies this afternoon.

Seven things...

2009-03-30T10:23:00.000+11:00

A little reminder to get my priorities in order this week :)

Seven things for the week are:
1. Lots of hugs and kisses for the kids (and Hubby too!)
2. Relaxed bedtimes with a story and snuggles
3. Scrap a page for Olivia
4. Get into the garden
5. A meal from my new slow cooker (Thanks Pam!)
6. Try a farm animal from fondant
7. Cooking with the girls.

Sounds easy enough?!

Have a lovely week!

Engagement Cake

2009-03-28T18:59:00.000+11:00

I loved making this cake for my dear friend Danielle, and of course her hubby to be :)
I learnt so much through the process and was very pleased with the finished product. Unfortunately I didn't realise that my Mum's cake stand was wonky....might have to go and find myself a not-wonky one for next time :)

I love these!

2009-03-26T12:29:00.000+11:00

Saw these gorgeous wall hangings on Etsy made by moonmum.

I love the colours!

I love the designs!

Sugar Blossoms

2009-03-25T09:57:00.000+11:00

Flickr

You would think it was spring with the amount of blossoms around here! I've been learning as I go which is fun, but I've discovered blossoms are very time consuming! I've been researching on the net for the most effective way to make sugar blossoms. So far this seems to be the most effective way.

Also, Olivia has decided that walking is a better option than crawling and has been walking everywhere the past two days. She took her first step on 1st March and it's taken her over three weeks to develop the confidence to walk. She still refuses to put her feet on the floor if she has shoes on though. I'm guessing she will be more cautious like Hannah. I've also noticed she's scared of heights and definitely does not like to be thrown around. Hannah was the same! Olivia's developing more confidence around the cat, but if it looks at her and walks towards her she screams. Very cute to watch and MUST get it on video :)

Anyhow, back to baking these cakes!

Sweet Art

2009-03-19T12:33:00.000+11:00

As I said in a previous post, I'd love to decorate Olivia's room as a mini patisserie. Today I found this little tutorial for making plaster of paris cupcakes at cupcake spy. I thought it might be a cute project for the school holidays.

Here's another one pretty one from Instructables

Mum and Dad's wedding

2009-03-18T11:38:00.000+11:00

Here's a simple layout for my family heritage album.

3 Layouts

2009-03-16T14:39:00.000+11:00

While Josh was away on a fishing trip I managed to get some layouts done. They are all similar using the same technique but will go in each of the girl's albums so it doesn't matter.

Lonely girl...

2009-03-13T16:35:00.000+11:00

What is it about Hannah that makes her think she always has to have someone to play with? Is it to do with her being the middle girl? Before Sarah went to school they were always playing together, last year Hannah played with the neighbour and now, if Olivia's asleep and Sarah's off somewhere she's always asking for someone to come over or to go somewhere. This is happening every day at the moment!
She has found a solution though - retail therapy. Today she said if she could go to the shops and buy something she'd be ok! They start young!

These take the cake!

2009-03-12T14:07:00.000+11:00

Yesterday my friend asked me to make her engagement cake - nothing to elaborate or difficult she says but I still had to have a look around :) Anyway, after a bit of cake browsing I found this website with the prettiest cakes and just had to share a few favourites. I love the bling on the first one!Photos from InStyle Weddings

Time out for me too!

2009-03-10T11:35:00.000+11:00

Isn't this just the cutest time-out chair you've seen? I want one!House Beautiful

Actually I think I'd like an adult sized one in a garden looking at this...

Andrew Pescod- Flickr

Maybe I can go there when i lose my temper....I don't think I'd come back lol!

Here we come!

2009-03-06T14:46:00.000+11:00

Avoca Beach...here we come!

Hope you all have a lovely weekend!Photographer unknown - sorry!

Cuppie love!

2009-03-06T10:54:00.000+11:00

I came across this CUTEST little girls bedroom! I absolutely LOVE it, and although I would not go all out with this theme I'd like to incorporate this theme in Olivia's room. It's just so cute! Tell me what you think :)Olivia is a little terror on the change table at the moment so I have been looking around for a cute mobile that she wont grow out of too quickly. Anyway, after seeing this theme I've started on a cupcake mobile.

I think there are accents in this room that make it So doable. I love the:
- chalkboard
- kitchen (already got a cute one)
- cupcake bedspread
- apron, etc.
- table and chairsAlthough I LOVE the pink and brown, I'm not sure that Josh would be happy to repaint the bedroom. We'll see though :) I'm thinking of making this a second birthday present for her.

Let's hope Olivia loves cupcakes as much as I do :) She's tending more towards a truck driver at the moment. She pushes around cars and blows rasberries - I think that might be thanks to her lil cousin Lachlan :)

Canberra Show

2009-03-06T10:09:00.000+11:00

On Saturday Josh and I took Sarah, Hannah and my nephew Lachlan out to Canberra show. We had a ball - but were so exhausted at the end.

I have always loved Canberra show! I LOVE rides - I love that adreneline rush!! Although it's been so long since I've been on a ride that I felt sick watching them. The main reason it's been so long is Josh is totally opposite to me when it comes to rides. It was a big thing for Josh to take the kids on the ferris wheel.

Here are some pics from the weekend!

Slip covers

2009-02-25T09:57:00.000+11:00

I've been thinking for a while about making some slip covers for the lounges. I'd love a new lounge but the one we have is really comfy and I don't think it's wise getting a new lounge while the kids are still young. I'm going to pop some pictures up here as I see them...

Veranda

I like this...

2009-02-21T11:21:00.000+11:00

The true measure of a man is how he treats someone
who can do him absolutely no good.

~ Samuel Johnson~

Hello Naomi

Looking back...

2009-02-16T14:11:00.000+11:00

Looking back…
A great and very full weekend

Excited about…
The engagement of Andrew and Danielle!

Annoyed by…
The lady who wouldn't let me in the gate for a better picture of Sarah and Hannah on the carousel

Thankful for…
Precious friends who took Sarah and Hannah for the night

Inspired by…
"It's a Wonderful life"

Loving…
My sweet husband who cooked me eggs on toast for Valentine's dinner

Trying hard...

To get a nice picture so I can scraplift this cute layout by Elizabeth Kartchner

Wondering...
What's going through this little mind!

Looking forward to..
Bush Wahee tonight - whatever it is!

Happy Valentines Day!!

2009-02-14T09:20:00.000+11:00

Valentines day is one of my favourite celebrations in the year. We don't go way out and do heaps for one another but we do always spend time alone and celebrate our love for one another. 14 years ago today was the first time Josh told me he loved me and gave me a cute song on tape that he wrote for me - sweet huh?

Photos from flickr

Hope you have a happy Valenties day :)
Ruth xo

Slightly modified

2009-02-13T13:45:00.001+11:00

Well... I got my fabrics out and realised I have lent out my cutting equipment so I decided to scrap instead and put the pencil roll off until next week.I managed to scrap this page from beginning to end in the time Olivia napped... now that's my idea of a good morning :)

Just me and Olivia!

2009-02-13T09:28:00.000+11:00

Looking forward to a day today with just me and Olivia today. It seemed very strange to drop both girls off at the same time but I'm really looking forward to spending more time with Olivia. Olivia really does love her sisters but sometimes she just likes to explore on her own rather than being pulled every which way so I'm sure she'll enjoy the time too!Well now that Olivia is down for her nap I have at least 3 hours to myself. I'm going to get started on this pretty pencil roll found here!Happy Friday!

The big day arrived for Hannah!

2009-02-12T15:44:00.000+11:00

Hannah is officially a big preschool girl now! She was very excited this morning about going off to preschool. Before school she did everything that Sarah usually does including putting 'school socks' on. I could tell she was feeling very responsible about going off to school. She only had half a day today and begins with a full-day tomorrow. Oh and for some reason I had to take a picture of the new shoes!

Before school….

What did you do this morning before preschool? Brushed my teeth, Mummy brushed my hair, watched the news, ABC and played I spy on the computer.

What’s your teacher's name? I don't remember… Amanda and Christine?

What's in your bag? Cheese and banana?

What do you think about preschool? I think it's going to be a nice time.

What are looking forward to most? Painting and dress-ups

Do you know anyone at preschool yet? I think Nicholas, Matthew and Alicia

How do you feel about going to preschool? Good, excited.

Anything else you want to say? I love you and I like to swim, I am an animal lover and I love princesses and that's all.

What do you think about leaving Olivia at home by herself? I want to play with Olivia but I have to go to school. Bye, bye Olivia… I love you.

After school…

What did you do at preschool today? Painted, played dressups, Played with the kitchen with other people that are my friends, played play-dough, listened to a book called Gabby Puddle Duck.

Was preschool as exciting as you thought? mmm hmmm

What was the best thing about preschool today? Painting! I don’t' remember what I painted but I used blue, yellow and pink. My teacher said we're allowed to mix them together.

What were your teachers like? they were good, they were nice too.

Did you miss me and Olivia? Yes

On another note, Sarah was very excited for Hannah also. As soon of the home bell went she ran down to the preschool. She was using her big grown up/sensible voice as Hannah showed her some things. She told me she feels very grown up today.

Olivia at One

2009-02-12T07:45:00.000+11:00

I just want to take some time to reflect on Olivia at 12 months:

- she does not like to play with her toys. She'd much prefer a piece of paper or to pull everything out of my bag.
- she has two good sized naps in the day and a long 12-13 hr sleep each night. I don't remember the last time Olivia woke in the night.
- Olivia holds on like a little koala. She holds my top and wraps her cubby little legs around me and does not let go easily.
- is SO excited to see her Daddy each night when he comes home. I can tell I have another Daddy's girl coming up.
- is on one feed a day just before bed.
- is walking easily around furniture and stands well on her own. I think she'll take a step in a month or so.
- is totally doted on by her big sisters who I'm sure think they're her 'other Mums'!
- loves almost any food. She especially loves to eat whole nectarines but makes SUCH a mess!
- has a security blanket - I love it! She's the first to have a security blanket. She will pull it up to her mouth and pretend to suck on it. So cute.
- pinches me when she wants a feed. It hurts SO bad - little rascal!
- starting to go to other people now, which is nice.

Update

2009-02-11T11:08:00.000+11:00

I haven't been blogging recently so for the time being I'm going to keep the blogs down to one (just this one).

Here's an update on what's been going on in the Drew household...

Olivia...
On Sunday Olivia turned ONE! I'll post shortly on Olivia at one year old for record sake. It was 39 degrees the day of the party. We had originally planned to go to Tuggeranong park but did a quick last minute change to Mum and Dad's home for the aircon. Josh bought some water guns to put inside pass the parcel which came in really handy afterwards leading to a massive water fight!

Olivia had her one year old immunisation today which was really sad! She screamed her little head off. Poor little thing is having a nap now.

Me...
I've almost finished scrapping this mini album for Olivia. Just need to add a few embellishments but am having trouble finding the right colours. I'm going to head over to the Art Store today to see if I can find the bits and pieces I need.

I've been trying to get some scrapbooking updated recently. So far I've done a layout for each child - Sarah's was from starting kindy last year! It's been THAT long!

Hannah...
Hannah is starting preschool tomorrow. It's been such a long time coming and the 'big day' has finally arrived! Will share some photos soon.
Sarah...
Sarah's in year one this year! She wasn't very excited about returning until she lost her first tooth that morning! It wasn't even wobbly! She's in a 1/2 class and has made many new friends already. She's sitting next to a little girl at the moment and has been planning midnight trips to Big Splash with her. Sarah's been packing her bag each night and waiting for the knock on the window at midnight! (I've been hiding the keys just in case she decides to go looking for her!) I don't imagine for a minute that Sarah would even wake up in the night.

Josh...
Will be starting a new job in March - very exciting!

My favourite things...

2009-01-12T13:35:00.000+11:00

Despite having a noisy home filled with 7 kids from 4 different families I am sitting at the computer enjoying hearing them all laugh together and form close friendships. Laughing children is one of my favourite things, here are just a few more...

~ a new journal

~ silver lined clouds

~ a inspirational magazine

~ a wiff of aftershave

~ a good greed salad

~ freshly cut grass

~ dark chocolate

~ a newborn baby

~ a quiet, cool, dark room on a hot day.

~ hot cup of sweet black tea in a delicate cup and saucer

~ coffee in one hand, bible on my lap before the children get up

~ a sleeping child

~ a candlelit dinner for two

~ background music

~ a good laugh

~ the smell in my garden after the rain

What about you?

Christmas Eve Service

2009-01-02T12:08:00.001+11:00

Dad called just prior to the Christmas Eve service and asked if Sarah would read something. We didn't have much time, so in the car I went through Colin Buchanan's Christmas album and found this song. I quickly wrote it down in the car and Sarah practiced on the way to church. She did so well even though it was not well prepared. Talk about a 'Proud Mummy Moment'!

First time for many things!

2009-01-02T11:51:00.000+11:00

For the first time I made a gingerbread house!My Sis in law helped me out with what I imagined would be a daunting project, it wasn't though! It was heaps of fun! Next year I'd like to do another one.

Not to self: Make this early in December!

For the first time I made traditional plum puddings!

(no photos!)

I was really please with how they turned out! I had no idea how they'd be as I made them early December - had to boil them for a total of 8 hours so I was a bit concerned they'd go mouldy in our Australian climate. Once they dried I popped them in the fridge for a few weeks.

Note to self: make a thicker skin, particularly at the top!

For the first time I tired chocolate fencing!This was for a friend's 40th birthday, I was really pleased with the way it turned out but have learnt a lot for next time. This is expected I guess when I do everything by trial and error!

23rd December 2008

2009-01-02T11:24:00.000+11:00

It's been a tradition of our little family to go to Goodberry's for icecream then head off to the lights after the sun has gone down. So, on Tuesday 23rd December we went. It was so exciting for the girls! We met Heather, Rob and family in Isabella Plains and ran into other friends while we were out and about. Here are a few snapshots of our time.

Where do I start?

2009-01-01T21:45:00.000+11:00

I seriously do not know where to start! So much has been going on recently and I have heaps I want to catch up on before conference! Well here's what going through my head this second!

Annoyed....
That we hired the most stupid movie tonight that we had to turn it off!

Wondering....
If I should combine the two blogs to get a bit more frequency. The purpose of this blog is reflection. My aim was to have a bit of a journal of what's going on in my life but it often things have seemed to belong in the family blog - so I don't put it in either.

Remembering...
The month that has just past and I have not documented anything!

Enjoying...
My whole family being together day after day! The girls laughing together, Olivia's new games she's playing with the girls and the constant slam of the back door.

Loving....
The random low times that Josh and I get where we just sit and chat and Mum's recipe book of 'no time to cook' recipes by Donna Hay. (Just borrowed it for a few days as Mum has absolutely no time to cook!)

Thinking about...
New years resolutions - whether I should make them big or small.

Celebrating...
The NEW YEAR!!! Whoo Hoo!! I love starting a new year!

1 week to go!

2008-12-18T13:02:00.000+11:00

I'm not sure that I'm SO excited that Christmas is only 1 week away! I've got so much to do! As far as decorating and being 'ready' for Chritmas, I've got a long way to go! There are still gifts to buy, decorations I want to make, things I want to bake and ideas that have been running through my head that I still want to implement.

The mosaic below shows some of the things that have been inspiring me this Christmas.

1. http://www.flickr.com/photos/holiday_jenny/2037029694/">a 2. Not available, 3. Not available, 4. Not available,
5. http://www.flickr.com/photos/67389006@N00/2990996896/">IMG_0818_new>, 6. Not available,
7. http://flickr.com/photos/brandywineboutique/3046594862/">Christmas
8. http://www.flickr.com/photos/bleulune/3092489085/in/photostream/">Silvery Christmas,
9. http://flickr.com/photos/45744015@N00/359147021/">Fabbbbulous vintage ornament wreath, 10. Not available,
11. http://www.flickr.com/photos/shabbyscraps/3110917767/">my house at christmas,
12. http://flickr.com/photos/brandywineboutique/3111143978/">Holiday Décor ,
13. http://www.flickr.com/photos/23264080@N00/3116719722/">Christmas Centerpiece,
14. http://www.flickr.com/photos/25488115@N06/2994579111/">Vintage Wallpaper Posie Wreath Kit,
15. http://flickr.com/photos/25488115@N06/3066123292/">Candy Canes in Progress,
16. http://flickr.com/photos/holiday_jenny/329811553/">mixed media winter cottage

Winding down :)

2008-12-16T11:20:00.001+11:00

Well finally this year is winding down and I'm loving it!

I've been totally inundated with mangos and have been busy trying different recipes. So far mango bread (recipezaar), mango sorbet (Donna Hay) and chicken and mango filo rolls (my own concoction) have been a hit. Today I'm picking up some jars from mum and am going to try mango chutney and mango jam. I'm looking forward to it. I love experimenting when the pressure's not on :)

Our family Christmas (brag) letter is done and cards are almost ready to go! I'll hopefulyl finish that tonight.

I Found this cute book 'The Nativity' by Julie Vivas ($3 can you believe!!!). The pictures are gorgeous! Dad tells the story of Jesus to the children when our families get together for Christmas so I'm going to take this one over to him.

Rambling

2008-12-14T20:17:00.000+11:00

It's been ages since I have had the opportunity to post and have really missed it. Everything has been so hectic around here over the past few weeks! I'm really looking forward to settling down into the holiday season. Today was my first quiet day - well literally! I've lost my voice. It's funny though because even the kids are whispering.So far I haven't done much Christmas decorating. I purchased the stand for my Willow Tree Nativity set. I only got the stand as it's the most expensive piece in the set. Now I only have one more 'mini set' to get and then I'll have the complete set (that will be next year).

I made a very simple red wreath for the front door a few weeks ago but haven't had the time to hang it so it will go up tomorrow along with the usual Christmas cards and other bits and pieces.

Last year I bought a home-made Christmas pudding which cost a fortune, so this year I've made several puddings - one for Christmas at Mum's, one for Christmas with Josh's family and one to test before we open the others. I'm really hoping they'll turn out ok.

This year for the first time the girls have been asking if we can have a Christmas Tree. I've given them a few reasons (in their language) but basically they just want somewhere to put the presents. I've brought a white cane chair in from outside which we've called the Christmas chair. It's going to look lovely too as I'm wrapping in red and white this year. On the subject, Sarah also told me it's sad how people just want to talk about Santa as Christmas and no one wants to talk about Jesus. It was so out of the blue but was an opportunity to encourage her to think of Jesus this Christmas.

I'll maybe put up some new pics next post of the things around our home.

Also, we finally got our good news! It took a while but on Thursday Josh got a call saying he had been successful in his job application! God is so good to us!

Anyway, I'd better check the kids are asleep and not taring the place apart!

Have a lovely week - I hope it's a quiet one!

An amazing Gingerbread house! Neviepiecakes

Bathroom dreaming!

2008-11-13T09:45:00.000+11:00

I'm dreaming of a new bathroom at the moment. I love the French country look,Housetohome

but then again I love the fresh white on white look!
A free standing bath is definately a must!Decorology
Ok... I'll stop dreaming!