tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80246325278182402722024-03-13T22:45:28.290+11:00RamblingsRamblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-44120046013694915522012-09-10T19:25:00.000+10:002012-09-10T19:25:51.071+10:00The Mornington PeninsulaThe day we left Wilson's Promontory, the air felt like ice. The winds howled and the rain poured. It was what we always thought Victorian weather was going to be like but until now we had had nothing but sunshine. Our first stop was the Visitor's Centre where we were given loads of information and left with a wad of pamphlets to peruse and plan the next five days. It was so cold that we decided to jump in the car and drive. And drive we did. All the way to the end of the Mornington Peninsula.<br />
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Sorrento was beautiful. From the multimillion dollar mansions on the cliffs to the best kids playground I have ever seen. An enormous wooden castle with hidey holes and secret passageways only big enough for little bodies. It looked out over the turquoise blue of Sorrento's water and was enticing not only to the kids but the adults too (who were a bit disappointed they didnt fit through the secret tunnels). We decided to eat lunch at Sorrento and wandered into a little Italian restaurant where we were the only customers. The girls were treated to crayons and paper with their lunch and even their choice of TV channel. They were delighted.<br />
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We had decided to split the next four days in half. Two days were to be spent in Melbourne City and the other two exploring the coast of the Mornington.<br />
Melbourne City is a happening place. And extremely busy. It was during this time that I was struck by the similarities between Inda and I. Being a grown up and all, I can cope with my claustraphobic emotions that are brought on by crowds and the general hustle and bustle of city life. But it wasnt until Inda had been uncooperative the entire day that I sat her down and asked her what was going on? And in the words of an amazingly verbal four year old she replied, "It's too busy and there are too many people and I dont know them and I dont want them to look at me!" I couldnt have said it better myself.<br />
The problem is, when you strip back the chaos, Melbourne is great. Great shops, great food, great sights to see and so we did our best to explore the city with two little ones in tow. We stopped to get our family picture taken in the old black and white photo booths outside Flinders St. Station, ate sushi, browsed a few shops and headed home on the train. <br />
Our second day in Melbourne was Father's Day. We had decided to check out a church, recommended to us by a friend, which was situated in the middle of Melbourne City, held in Hoyts Cinemas! City on a Hill was fantastic and very exciting to see church happening right in the centre of the city. We were very comfortable in our cinema leather seating and were grateful for the time out to be recharged and encouraged by God's Word. Post church, we headed for Lygon Street to meet up with school friends Alissha and Reej for lunch. I was put to shame as Lish presented Chris with his only Father's Day present, some AFL and Melbourne merchandise, but thrilled that he actually received a present as I was fairly slack with preparations....<br />
Chris was absolutely exhausted when we arrived home, after navigating a new city by car and still talks about the crazy Victorian road rules.<br />
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Exploring the Mornington saw us wander through some great markets, visit the brightly coloured beach boxes from Dromana to Mount Martha and go to the Enchanted Maze and Garden at Arthur's Seat. We spent the whole day in this maze wonderland. There was plenty to do and the girls, particularly Inda, loved it. The highlight for Indie were the tube slides. She had six turns between Chris and I. Red faced and panting she asked for one more after every ride. Chris took Noa for a turn but she screamed the whole way down. Before we left, I took her up for one more turn, trying to conquer the fear. Chris and Inda went on the slide parallel to ours and so about half way down, she realised Inda was next to her and started to enjoy it. But when I asked her if she wanted another turn she replied 'moooo' (no) and shook her hand at me. Ok kiddo, fair enough. Chris loved the mathematical side to the mazes, using his 'left hand' theory through every maze.<br />
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The coastal side of the Peninsula, reminded me a bit of home; the busier coastal feel and an hour out of the city, but with a more artistic flair. Next stop... The Great Ocean RoadRamblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-80349047860612371862012-09-08T13:24:00.001+10:002012-09-08T13:24:42.111+10:00Prom CountryThe landscape has changed as we have moved further down the coast. From Gerringong with its rolling, intensely green hills, to the rugged Australian bush of Mallacoota with its greys and browns. As we approached Wilson’s Promontory, the landscape had changed again, back into that lush green grass covering the rolling hills as far as the eye could see. Cows were back to the norm and once again the intensity of colour captivated my eyes attention. I couldn’t look away.<br />
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The drive from Mallacoota to Wilson’s Promontory was our longest yet. Six hours with a stop at Lakes Entrance for some lunch and a play in the park to stretch our legs, meant that by the time we arrived at Wilson’s we were beat and ready for bed. So, we were thrilled to find that our accommodation for our three night stay was absolutely stunning. It was a little cottage set on an 11 acre farm with sheep, cows and chickens aplenty. We had a wood fire, which Chris was chuffed to have started each night, and enough space for us all to breathe. It was just delightful. One of the highlights was watching as the herd of cattle across the road escaped, bolting down the road, only to be herded back by a flustered farmer who told us he, ‘thought it would be harder than that,’ as they all ran back through the fence. Farming life definately has its charm.<br />
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We had two days to explore this phenomenal part of the world. So our first day was spent exploring the famous Wilson’s Promontory National Park. Wow. What a spectacular creation. The views are breathtaking with large mountains towering above, covered in trees and big orange coloured boulders. Chris made a comment as we drove in, that it resembled parts of Africa. On our drive through the park and down to Tidal River, we were stopped by an emu crossing the road and two kangaroos lazily sunning themselves. I think we were more excited than the girls and to prove it Chris jumped out of the car at a clearing where there were six emus grazing and tried to get as close as he could. Imitating one of them, he walked closer but they were on to him and quickly darted away. <br />
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We stopped at Tidal River to check it out and the visitor’s centre, for some hot tips/spots to explore. We have become a big fan of Visitor’s centres on this trip and they have proved to be very helpful along the way. After Tidal River, we stopped at Norman’s Beach, Squeaky Beach and Picnic Bay. Squeaky Beach was where we spent the most time getting lost amongst the giant boulders at one end. Tight tunnels and daring rock climbs made for a fun day. However, if this blog is going to post reality then one must include Noa’s performance for the entire day to give an honest and not so completely tranquil feel to the day. Noa persisted in tantruming for almost the entire day on and off, causing us at one point to leave her in the sand so we could explore, only to return to find her just as we had left her. Poor kid. She sure has one incredible stubborn streak hidden under all those smiles.<br />
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Squeaky Beach is so named because the quartz sand is supposed to squeak under your feet as you walk along. My brother had told me that it was working when they were there but not for us. Our highlight of Squeaky was definitely the boulders.<br />
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The next day saw us venture out into the icy wind and rain to find Cape Liptrap Lighthouse and Agnes Falls. The view from the Lighthouse was dwarfing. The ocean spanned all around as far as the horizon with the sheer cliff faces, plunging deep into the depths below. Due to the rain, the colours in the sky were amazing and the clouds spectacular. Noa also had a little mishap on this excursion as she tripped and fell face first into a muddy puddle. The result was one muddy and sad little girl in need of a big cuddle.<br />
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The drive to Agnes Falls saw our dead wombat tally reach 18 and we are still yet to see one alive. We checked out Agnes Falls but in comparison to Fitzroy Falls which we had visited back in Gerringong, we were not overly impressed and all of our driving had worn down our enthusiasm. We called it a day and made the trek back home where we spent the afternoon on the farm. It was enjoyable to spend it together without an agenda and with time on our side. We played basketball, went on the swings, and watched the cows across the road escape (as mentioned before). I was given a rude shock when I attempted to swing upside down on the monkey bars and struggled with great difficulty. My memories of monkey bars were hanging upside down so free and easy without any trouble at all. I am in denial about this whole age thing for sure.<br />
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We move on again tomorrow from the remote countryside to the bustling and vibrant coast of the Mornington Peninsula. I am going to miss this spot. I feel like I can breathe easy in these big wide open spaces.<br />
<br />Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-23587191256298036182012-09-01T15:38:00.001+10:002012-09-01T15:38:26.541+10:00MallacootaCatching up with friends and family has been a great part of this holiday. And another catch up with a dear old school friend, Bec, took us on a detour to Tura Beach before we continued on to Mallacoota. It was great to catch up with Bec and to see her beautiful house and property. Talking about old times and updating each other on time lost, we were fed a great lunch, sent with leftovers and given some of that great ol’ country hospitality which I was challenged to take back home with me to the Coast. Inda and Noa loved Bec’s property and displayed their personalities very clearly. Inda spent the entire time following Bec around asking her question upon question... upon question. Questions about her horses, her dogs, her house, her property, the food and her family. You name it, she asked it. Noa on the other hand, squealed with excitement the entire time, chasing the dogs, pointing at the horses and running everywhere in the big open space. Noa had to be restrained after while because the dogs had had enough. <br />
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It was late afternoon when we eventually crossed the border into Victoria and arrived at our small town of Mallacoota. A decent drive off the beaten track, we eventually ambled our way into our accommodation, where we were met by more than a dozen kangaroos quietly grazing on the grass next to our cabin. The caravan park was owned and run by a family with an eight year old daughter with whom Inda paired up with and who introduced us to the park’s ‘pet’ kookaburra who was happy to have a pat. The family also owned a beautiful dog named Rex, who reminded us alot of our Cooper . He sat outside our door all day and was more than happy for a cuddle from Noa.<br />
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Mallacoota is one of our shortest stays of the trip and so we only had one day to enjoy this isolated beauty. We were able to drive around the entire town in an hour and then decided on a beach called Bastion Point to unload our stuff and settle in for the day. Thankfully we were already at the beach, because it was here that our car decided to die. Chris was understandably stressed because there were no other cars around and his wife was being quite the negative nag. So, we were thankful when a lovely older lady, who was on her morning walk, stopped to ask us what was wrong. She then walked back to her son’s house,with whom she was staying, and sent him back to help. God does indeed provide and I was once again attracted to the friendly small town vibe.<br />
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We spent the rest of the day exploring the beach, collecting, building and relaxing. I attempted a surf at Bastion but was quickly frozen and lasted only a few minutes. Something I have also learnt about myself on this trip is that as much as I would like to say I enjoy my own company, I don’t. And I don’t like isolation, this includes surfing in isolation. <br />
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It has been cold today and the change in temperature between states is noticeable. Tomorrow we move again. <br />
<br />Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-39530703689843999612012-08-31T18:59:00.000+10:002012-08-31T18:59:10.286+10:00From Gerringong to NaroomaOur last week in Gerringong saw our friends from home come and stay for the weekend. Inda and Noa were particularly thrilled to spend three days with their little friend Zeek and Chris and I were grateful for some familiar faces. The weekend with the Lawlers saw us venture out in strong winds to the monthly Gerringong markets, wander through Berry and take a daytrip out to Fitzroy Falls and the town of Robertson; which turns out to be the home of the ‘Big Potato.’ We parted with the Lawlers after Salt Church on the Sunday and spent the last two days of our time in Gerringong visiting our favourite spots and buying our favourite treats, trying to sketch every detail into our memory so that we wouldn’t forget. <br />
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Our last destination before hitting the road, was a daytrip out to the whitest sand in the world, namely, Hyams Beach. Once again, we were mesmerised by the beaches around here. And the sand was indeed white and soft. So soft that I had no problem lying down in it to have a moment of serenity before a lively 4 year old broke into the silence by launching onto my back. We followed our visit to Hyams with lunch in nearby Huskisson where I hit up the local op shop and the girls played in the park whilst watching the tourists loading into the Whale watching boats. <br />
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The next day we arrived at Mogo Zoo with two very excited girls in the backseat. We had talked up the White Lion experience for Indie. And Noa... well, Noa and animals need no encouraging. The excitement simply explodes out of that enormous smile all on its own. We were very impressed with this little zoo and were grateful to have been wandering through when it was feeding time for many of the animals. We saw tigers and lions roar (frightening) and cheetahs trying to take down Chalkie, the South African zookeeper, to get to their food. I am always amazed at brave people like Chalkie. After watching him with the white lions, hearing him talk about hand raising them and entering into their ‘pride’ and seeing him calmly knock back a couple of ferocious cheetahs trying to get to their food, I came away in awe and secretly desiring that kind of confidence and courage.<br />
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Inda’s favourite were the giraffes and interestingly enough, the reptile house. Noa squealed over every animal but was most stoked when the dingo keepers walked them through the zoo allowing her to have a pat of the ‘woof woof’.<br />
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After wandering through the souvenir shop and resisting the urge to buy the girls a white lion stuffed toy, we instead opted for the Mogo icecreamery before heading on to Narooma.<br />
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As we drove over the hill and down into Narooma, our eyes were given a feast of different coloured blues. Narooma is Aboriginal for, ‘clear blue waters,’ and that is a perfect description of the place. Once again, a small friendly town where the local pharmacist knows everyone by name and is thrown off when a Sarah Harris rocks up from Springfield?<br />
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Our accommodation was affectionately named the ‘tissue box.’ It was a tiny little space in a beautiful location looking out over Surf Beach. The small space caused a few heated moments between parents and two highly excitable little girls but was also priceless memory making, with all four of us ending up in the same bed. It was really very special. We spent the days exploring the beaches and the local scenery, taking photo opportunities at Australia Rock. We also visited the nearby historic towns of Central Tilba and Bodalla. Central Tilba held their weekly market whilst we were there and Chris noted that it was the most authentic and organic markets we had been to so far on this trip. Small, intimate and held in the town hall, we purchased some fruit, hand knitted gloves and some gifts to take home. <br />
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My time at Narooma was hindered a bit by an incredibly painful wisdom tooth which had been getting worse for the past week. In desperation I had decided to visit a dentist and was helpfully informed by a lady at the Visitor’s centre, of a small clinic with a dentist that I was assured was ‘lovely’ (my only prerequisite for a dentist). After a diagnosis of infection, I was doped up with antibiotics and orders for regular salt baths. Gratefully, I saw the pain ease and the ability to lift my mood that much easier.<br />
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Tomorrow we move on to our next stop and our first stop in Victoria... Mallacoota.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-68478756066547971032012-08-14T22:43:00.002+10:002012-08-14T22:43:40.414+10:00A local... well almostIt has been a different kind of holiday for us. Staying put in the one place for a few weeks and really exploring all the area has to offer, has been quite lovely. It means that you can get in the car and duck down to the local shops, do a daily surf check, drive to playgroup and church and settle into some semblance of a routine. I have liked it and yet other days I have yearned for the familiar feel of home.<br />
It is also different to do holidays when everyone else is not. It means you get the local school kids rocking up on your doorstep with an old doorbell asking if you are interested in purchasing some of their goods? It means less crowds, more space and only the locals around giving you a nod and a wave as you pass by. It is a different kind of holiday and I like it.<br />
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Our days have been spent exploring, mixed with some normal routine. As I mentioned before, I have been joining in with my friend Ren's playgroup at Keiraville, having dinners with friends and attending church in Wollongong each week.<br />
Our exploring has immersed us in the amazing natural beauty the South Coast has to offer. I am never bored of looking out my window, inhaling the fresh country air and seeing cows (and MORE cows), with the occasional horse and sheep thrown in. There is open space everywhere, with old stone walls lining the road and spectacular views aplenty.<br />
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Our favourite of the local towns is Berry. A quaint picturesque town with exquisite bakeries, set amongst the hills of the Kangaroo Valley. It is here you will find the famous Donut Van, Sourdough Bakery and Berry Bakery. Every time we drive home I think, "I could live here."<br />
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One of the highlights this week has been our adventure to Jervis Bay, namely Green Patch, set inside the Booderee National Park. Whilst walking down the path to a picnic table to eat our lunch, we were greeted with two very friendly kangaroos. Inda and I were both unsure and hesitated, turning quickly back to Noa and Chris who were a way behind us. Inda, probably taking her 'brave' mother's lead declared she "hated this day and wanted to go home" and was quite frightened of the Australian icon. However, after we sat down (the girls atop the table), the younger kangaroo came creeping forward and stretched it's long neck up to our table to see what goodies we might be willing to donate. Meanwhile, the mother kangaroo kept her distance and a watchful eye on her young one. We had become friends and so, keeping in line with the rules written on our table, the kangaroos went away empty handed.<br />
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We were already so impressed with our lunch expereience; kangaroos, magpies and king parrots, that it became an unbelievable day when we walked down to the beach. Greeted by the the pure white sand and clear blue sea, we were sure we had arrived in a different land. Our own deserted island to explore... fabulous. The girls frolicked in the water, running back and forth, chasing and laughing whilst Chris and I just sat. What a great day.<br />
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The last two days have been spent taking in the scenery via the Kiama Coast Walk and the Minnamurra Rainforest. Both spectacular and both very different views. Inda has been a fabulous walker and a real trooper. Noa, having been unwell for the past few days has been a bit less tolerant of our adventures but a trooper nontheless.</div>
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We have a week left in Gerringong before embarking further south and plan to enjoy and take in this beautiful part of our country and indeed, the world.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-15467248024238434422012-08-06T22:33:00.001+10:002012-08-06T22:33:42.719+10:00The small town vibeUpon arrival to our gusty little town of Gerringong, our breath was taken away by the stark beauty of the land around these traps. In the past week we have explored from the bustling city of Wollongong to the time warped small towns of the Kangaroo Valley and it is the scenery that we are most taken by. The intensity of colour and the contrasting green of the valley hills to the vast blue skies has been well... breathtaking. It is hard to look around these parts and not see the handiwork of a good God behind it all.<br />
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Our days have been busy and jam packed this last week. We arrived on Wednesday to a warm welcome from our dear friends, lunch with Dan and Ren and dinner with Ames and Grant. It felt good and we were settled instantly. Inda however has been having a hard time adjusting to the holiday. Her days are spent processing, reflected in the seemingly random questions of, 'when are we going to our real home?' There have been tears but she has also had a ball, spending her days exploring the beaches and pastry treats of the local towns.<br />
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Unkie Bec, Sherman and cousin Atticus came to stay for the weekend, which the girls were thrilled by. I was able to have three days of surfing along Werri Beach with Unkie Bec and Sherm. The highlight was sitting in the insanely blue water looking back at the green rolling hills and sheer cliff faces with cows scattered throughout and enjoying the playful antics of a pod of dolphins less than an arms reach away. As they rode the wave in, I paddled straight for them, expecting a collision, forgetting how agile these magnificent creatures were. They avoided me and my clunky board and continued surfing the wave without a hitch, taking a celebratory leap out of the water at the end of the ride.<br />
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I have said three times thus far, "can we move here?" I am sure the tally will rise as we continue our travels. The houses are just gorgeous and I love the vibe of the small towns. Everybody knows each other and the community spirit is admired. I even took home the Kangaroo Valley real estate brochure to show just how serious I was. Chris just laughed. Good man keeps me practical.<br />
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The Berry markets were a highlight this week, namely the petting farm they had. Noa and Atticus were keen to enter the arena but Indie was a little worried so she stayed on the outskirts with her dad and then slowly meandered in once she saw that we were not all eaten alive. Smart girl. Noa was particularly taken with a soft lop eared rabbit whom she refused to give up without a fight. Needless to say, we left the farm with one very sad little girl and no extra rabbit family member. We purchased some local honey and cheese and made our way home.<br />
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Last night we were excited to link up with the guys from Salt Church for our first service. We were encouraged to see a church of 65 gathered together around Jesus. It was an encouraging time and well needed. The girls settled in the kids program so Chris and I were both able to sit through the service. We met lots of new faces and were excited to see what God is doing through Salt Church. Afterwards, we grabbed some dinner with our friends in Wollongong and set off home with two exhausted little girls in the backseat.<br />
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Today, there was zero surf and so we set off to the Pioneering Museum in Kangaroo Valley. We were the only ones there and so the lady was particularly interested in Inda and Noa, giving them some special souvenirs to remember their trip. We visited an old bush school and Chris was humoured by the rules for teachers pinned to the wall. Number Four may have been the highlight, "Men teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes, or two evenings a week if they attend church regularly." There was a large suspension bridge over which Chris thought it would be fun to jump up and down on. The strained tension in the voices of Inda and myself may have been the reason for the cessation of jumping? Lunch was eaten and it was time to go. We passed over the historic New Hampden Bridge that looks like a castle on each side with a very narrow bridge across and made our way to Cambewarra Lookout before heading home. Both girls crashed in the car within minutes. The beauty of action packed days.<br />
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<br />Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-88245508299065241702012-07-23T20:54:00.003+10:002012-07-23T21:47:24.028+10:00Watch this space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been awhile since I have spoken in this space and I feel a bit like a beginner all over again.<br />
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Our little family is about to embark on a mini seven week adventure around the beautiful state of Victoria. It is from here that I will be communicating our days and time spent. Come join us on the road....Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-59791628499291747132012-02-22T13:49:00.000+11:002012-02-22T13:49:38.768+11:00Growing upI took these photos of the little one the other day. I looked at them and could not believe how grown up she had suddenly become. It really does seem to happen overnight. And I think it <strong>really</strong> does.<br />
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</div>Apologies for my lack of posting lately, to be honest with you, it is all to do with laziness combined with absolute exhaustion!<br />
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For the first year of being a 'mother of two,' I thought, "What do these women talk about? Two children is so not as hard as people make it out to be." And then Noa turned one and started walking. Suddenly she is on, under and in everything! Mornings have gone from quiet and routine to a chaotic frenzy with not one but two screaming children each wanting me to meet their needs NOOOOOOWWWWWW!!!<br />
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Sigh! So when they are both finally asleep in their beds, I flop onto the lounge, turn my head towards my husband to say hello for the first time today and there I remain until I can muster up the energy to roll into bed and close my eyes.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-70927099799605141082012-01-18T21:06:00.001+11:002012-01-18T21:47:56.333+11:00She walks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">And it goes a little something like this...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/409283_10150617637952494_650362493_11116642_1091716268_n.jpg" width="425" /></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">{She looks a little bit chuffed don't you think?}</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-14390007929222114992012-01-08T20:56:00.001+11:002012-01-08T20:57:31.626+11:00Reason for absence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</div>I started writing this blog as a way to express myself through the written word. Stories, reflections, poems and prayers. This is what it was supposed to be but since starting this blog I have realised how influenced I am by so many in the blog world and what began as an enjoyable hobby has become a competitive, pressured burden and I am pretty much over it....<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The problem is that when you become a mum, you enter this whole new world of blogging, namely the 'mummy blog' world and suddenly you find yourself 'needing' the latest cool baby stuff and feeling depressed that I feed my child some non-organic, freshly grown produce and I wear trackies when going to the supermarket ( I am totally that mum).</div><br />
Now I am not saying that all the blogs I love out there are unhelpful. No way. I wish my gardening skills would take off (I am trying) and if I lost a little fat, I could maybe wear some fashoinable attire but the point is, I dont want my life to be consumed with this stuff. <br />
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And so, whilst I will continue to peruse all the wonderful blogs out there, mine may be taking a slower pace for a little while as I figure out what it is I want to blog about.<br />
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In the meantime, the relationship between my girls is blossoming {I am a mum after all :)}<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387610_10150594101462494_650362493_11031750_2003655569_n.jpg" width="425" /></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="425" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/389404_10150594101147494_650362493_11031749_2144894483_n.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">{We have got the hang of it now... gentle}</span></div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-43577264093373129192011-12-24T19:41:00.001+11:002011-12-24T19:45:40.633+11:00ChristmasAnother year has passed and it is Christmas again already! Life is passing by so fast and it is moments like these that I am thankful for eternity.<br />
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Tonight,<br />
- we ate homemade pizzas together<br />
- had a puppet show renactment of the story of Jesus' birth starring Daddy as all characters and Mummy as narrator (reading the Bible)<br />
- Cut up some carrot, apple and sprinkled reindeer food (oats and blue glitter) on the front lawn as per Inda's request.<br />
- Hung the girls' stockings on their door ready to be filled with love and fun for tomorrow<br />
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I hope you have a wonderful holiday and take the time to think about the Christ in Christmas.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-73280106763021299542011-12-17T13:56:00.001+11:002011-12-17T13:58:30.778+11:00Party On!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</div>Well only just...<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">When we woke up on Sunday it was blue sky and zero cloud. We were definately having this party outside. After weeks of on and off rain, it was touch and go as to whether this party would end up outside or not. I really wanted it outside for many reasons but mainly for space issues. The backup was Mum and Dad's place but if it was raining it was going to be chaos with all the kids ingesting truckloads of sugar.</div><br />
So at lunchtime, the clouds started to roll over and I was wavering in my decision to have the party at the park but on we went, confident that God had this covered. We arrived, and just as we started to set up, down came the rain.<br />
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Aghh! In a bit of a flap, my dear friend came and said, "Mum and Dad are happy for you to use the theatre if you want?" Yep thats right people. It just so happened that my friend's parents own Avoca Beach Picture Theatre which was just across the road from where we were. And so, in the pouring rain we had Noa's party in the beautiful grounds of a heritage listed theatre. God totally had this covered.<br />
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The kids ran around in the rain, squealing with delight whilst the adults hovered undercover chatting away.<br />
Happy Birthday was sung, the cake devoured and lots of good convos enjoyed.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all I would say it was a success!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">Happy Birthday Noa x</div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-57310539575641253542011-12-17T13:30:00.000+11:002011-12-17T13:30:52.579+11:00Noa turns ONE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">It was our little Noa's first birthday on Sunday. Nanny and Big Pop stayed over and we enjoyed a special pancake breakfast in the morning before opening presents!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/386046_10150520895642494_650362493_10741775_1469401902_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/386046_10150520895642494_650362493_10741775_1469401902_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="425" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/382680_10150535671482494_650362493_10785512_1618495155_n.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A beautiful doll by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/warmsugar">Warm Sugar</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Noa was quite overwhelmed with all the poking and prodding and constant encouragement to open present after present. But thankfully she has a big sister who was most obliging in 'helping' to rip that paper open.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>After going to church we headed to Nana and Pa's for cake before leaving Noa with Nana whilst Chris, Inda and I attended our first American Thanksgiving!<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So our little one had quite a busy and rushed day. I felt a bit guilty about how rushed it had been instead of spending the day just enjoying her. December seems to be so busy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/388328_10150520894912494_650362493_10741774_1000817064_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/388328_10150520894912494_650362493_10741774_1000817064_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/381023_10150535630992494_650362493_10785380_1956542993_n.jpg" width="425" /></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Noa's new little lion friend, Monty (by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/MillieFernOriginals">MillieFern)</a></span></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Her party is next weekend so hopefully the day will be spent doting on our little Noa Maeve.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Maeve meaning 'source of great joy.' She has totally lived up to her name.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our prayer for Noa is that she will grow to know the truth of Jesus in her own life and genuinely share a personal relationship with him, seeking to serve him with her life.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We love you little Noe xxx</div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-10711167471084562632011-11-04T20:02:00.000+11:002011-11-04T20:02:20.320+11:00Just dreaming...I should not go on <a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/">Apartment Therapy</a> too often...<br />
Because you stumble across beauties like <a href="http://gallery.apartmenttherapy.com/photo/nancy-ethans-house-tour/item/300028">this</a> and start dreaming away....................................<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/photo/nancy-ethans-house-tour/item/300050"><img alt="11211nancyneilhousetour_16_rect640" height="630" id="rect640-2991904" src="http://g-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/2991904/11211NancyNeilHouseTour_16_rect640.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/photo/nancy-ethans-house-tour/item/300038"><img alt="11211nancyneilhousetour_18_rect640" height="630" id="rect640-2991924" src="http://g-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/2991924/11211NancyNeilHouseTour_18_rect640.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="11211NancyNeilHouseTour_Image5.jpg" class="mt-image-center" height="583" src="http://i-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/uimages/la/11211NancyNeilHouseTour_Image5.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 20px; text-align: center;" width="540" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/photo/nancy-ethans-house-tour/item/300019" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="11211nancyneilhousetour_01_rect640" height="630" id="rect640-2991754" src="http://g-cdn.apartmenttherapy.com/2991754/11211NancyNeilHouseTour_01_rect640.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-59872719603544329942011-11-03T22:20:00.001+11:002011-11-03T22:24:32.843+11:00Noa Maeve Harris.. her birth day<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Now for round two... </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This should all be alot fresher in my mind as it was almost a year ago that our second little female beauty joined the Harris team.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Chris and I had waited almost three years before having another baby as my first experience of birth and early parenting had been one amazing yet rough road, with me experiencing quite scary Post Natal Depression. It was a place that I never wanted to return to. EVER. And so the thought of it being a possibility scared me out of wanting another bubba too soon.</div><br />
I prayed and prayed and in the end surrended those fears to Jesus who is good and in control. So on we went....<br />
<br />
My pregnancy this time round was completely different. I had no panic attacks and I just dont think I had time to stress out as much with a two year old running around my ankles (Thankyou Jesus). I was seeing Jo again, who had delivered Inda and that immediate trust and connection with her also alleviated some prior stress. So despite having the noraml ailments of pregnancy it was pretty smooth sailing with only one little hiccup. At our 20 week scan, Noa was found to have cysts on her brain that were either developmental or deadly. We wouldn't find out until another scan at 32 weeks. So for those 12 weeks, we were quite worried about the prospects but were upheld by Jesus and given a great peace about the whole thing, despite the outcome. Thankfully, they were developmental and gone at the next scan!<br />
<br />
Labour began at 5:30pm on the 3rd December. I was sitting on the lounge with Indie watching playschool when I had that familiar twang. Even though I had forgotten this feeling, when it came, I knew what it was. I calmly walked into Chris who was cooking dinner and said, "It's go time."<br />
So, Chris scooped Inda up (who was a bit overwhelmed and confused) and drove her over to my parent's place. Whilst they were gone, I set up camp infront of the TV with all assortments of chocolate and lollies (to keep my energy levels up of course). I turned on Modern Family and thought I would be here for awhile.<br />
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After a couple of Modern Family episodes, the contractions were coming every 5 minutes and quite intense. I assumed that I had forgotten how hard this was as I felt like I was able to cope better in the early stages last time. So I tried all the different things you do like, try and get some rest (yeah right), sat in the bath for hours and tried to distract myself with the TV. At 3am I asked Chris to ring Jo to see what she thought I should do. However, the phone went to a midwife named Sue who I didnt know and she told me that because Indie was posterior this one probably was too and the labour could go on for another 24 hours. After I hung up the phone I burst into tears because i was just not coping. These contractions were intense!<br />
<br />
{A quick side note here: Jo was paired up with another midwife, Ann Maree, who was the lady that would be there if Jo could not. During the course of pregnancy, I had had a couple of appointments with Ann Maree who I bonded with immediately and would have been thrilled with either midwife for the birth}<br />
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A little while later, Chris rang again as I was getting a bit distressed, and thankfully Ann Maree answered (as Jo was on days off)! It was amazing because my whole body relaxed when I discovered I would be talking to someone I knew and who knew me. I trusted both Ann Maree and Jo and so could talk to them honestly and openly. Ann Maree suggested we come in. So in we went!<br />
Before leaving I had vomited and could not walk during contractions, which had happened at quite a late stage last time so I was a bit confused as to what was happening. When we arrived, I walked upstairs (sitting down a few times along the way) and made it to the birthing suite.<br />
<br />
Like last time, I had wanted to try for a water birth, with no intervention unless needed. The difference this time was that I had no real expectations of myself. As long as this baby came out healthy and I was healthy, I was happy with that. If I needed pain relief I would have it. But only if I needed it (never say this to your midwife haha). I was a bit frazzled then when they took me into a room without a bath... eek now what?! Last time the bath had been my saving grace in getting so far without intervention.<br />
<br />
Anyway, Ann Maree came in and checked how far along I was. Wait for it... 6cm! Last time I had not progressed beyond 4cm by myself after 24 hours of labour. This was the boost I needed. No wonder things seemed more intense.. they were!<br />
<br />
Ann Maree said that bub was posterior again but as my waters hadn't broken they were hoping she would turn by herself. And so I laboured away. One thing that was a stark contrast to last time was all about letting go.<br />
Last time I was so afraid to make a noise and just let my body go and do what it should because I was a bit embarassed and scared. This time however, I let it all go. I moaned and screamed and it felt great! It really was awesome and helped me breathe through each contraction much more effectively. I didn't want Chris near me this time either. Last time he held my hand most of the time, this time I told him to sit on the chair and I just wanted to be by myself. I tried the shower but hated it and the pain in my back was getting worse (as it does with posterior babies).<br />
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Ann Maree had suggested during one of our appointments, about this new method to try and relieve back pain for posterior labours. It involved inserting water under the skin over the pressure points in the back and it was supposed to help relieve the back pain. At the time, i was like, 'oh yeah, cool' but when it was offerred to me in labour I decided to try it.<br />
I should also mention at this point that Jo had arrived!! She said that she would only come in on her days off, if myself and another one of her girls went into labour. How great is that!? So I had the best of both worlds. Two amazing midwives getting me through this. Such an answer to prayer!<br />
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So Jo and Ann Maree tried these water bubbles on me to try and relieve the back pain. I remember them high fiving each other behind me (I was on all fours at this point... way better than your back!) when I told them it was helping. And it really was.<br />
<br />
It was kind of getting to the point now of deciding whether to break my waters and get this thing really going. So Jo and Ann Maree went out to let the Doctor know that they were going to break my waters, I guess so he could be on stand by if need be. However, in the few minutes that they were gone, I had this enormous urge to push through one of the contractions (which I had never felt last time with the epidural) and my waters broke.. or I should say BURST!. Chris describes it as some one throwing a water balloon at my butt.. too much?<br />
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After that I just needed to keep pushing through each contraction (which never were less than 5 minutes apart) and in 17mins (this is what i was most proud of), her head was out, posterior and all! But it was not over yet. Her shoulders proceeded to get stuck and I just remember them both saying to me, "You need to turn over Sarah." I was like, "what the!?" I was on all fours and i had to get on my back. Anyway, somehow it happened and with a few different pullings and pushings, out she came.<br />
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<img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="424" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/69534_10150100285922494_650362493_7355905_2730542_n.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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Ahhhhhh she was out. They put her on my chest and she screamed (another answered prayer as Inda had not) and they put her on my chest and they didn't take her. She was gorgeous and the very first words out of mouth were, "she looks like my dad!" Which she does.<br />
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She was born at 8:12am Saturday 4th December 2010. She was 9lb or 4.09kg and healthy as can be. I breastfed her for ages and walked her back to my room.<br />
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It was such a different experience to my first time round and i am so thankful to God for his blessings.<br />
In a months time Noa, will turn one. Praise God for this little bundle of energy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312721_10150357998412494_650362493_9828035_877286_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="640" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/312721_10150357998412494_650362493_9828035_877286_n.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-70509835378595122432011-11-03T19:12:00.001+11:002011-11-03T19:31:02.971+11:00Heidi Walks are the bomb!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"></div><br />
My little Noa hates shoes... they all come off after about three seconds and it drives me up the wall. I had all but given up until I spied these beautiful handmade shoes <a href="http://www.oneclaireday.blogspot.com/">here </a>which as well as being absolutely delightful, came with the promise of staying on... and they do! (most of the time). <br />
I would suggest you get your hands on some <a href="http://www.allaboutheidi.com.au/">Heidi walks</a> asap and to start you off why dont you check out <a href="http://www.thebeetleshack.blogspot.com/">em's</a> awesome giveaway! <br />
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Have fun....<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YSXNLzgZu0k/Tq9lSjHsEKI/AAAAAAAABVk/AgUIjXeOUIk/s1600/P1100039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_mrdutd="3" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YSXNLzgZu0k/Tq9lSjHsEKI/AAAAAAAABVk/AgUIjXeOUIk/s640/P1100039.JPG" width="640" /></a>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-12282524412905901362011-10-31T21:41:00.000+11:002011-10-31T21:41:23.147+11:00Zoodie giveawayHead on over to my ultimate blog crush of late... Rubyellen of <a href="http://www.mycakies.blogspot.com/">cakies</a> is holding a giveaway for these beautiful <a href="http://www.zoodies.bigcartel.com/">zoodies</a>. These gorgeous hoodies will not only keep your little one warm but turn them into the animal of their choice. From this beautifiul black kitty to a mean looking shark, your little one will love to "dress up" in these adorable zoodies.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/94552249@N00/6295471528/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="soulie and her zoodie by rubyellen, on Flickr"><img alt="soulie and her zoodie" height="640" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6226/6295471528_14cf61808d_o.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>Get into it!Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-7506826833563589472011-10-25T23:00:00.001+11:002011-10-25T23:01:15.981+11:00Inda Grace Harris... her birth day<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">It has dawned on me that I have not really written down the birth story of either of my girls. I feel it is such an amazing time in one's life but so quickly forgotten once parenthood hits full swing. So... I have decided to write them down in this space to keep them for us as a family to look back on in years to come.</div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-ash1/v216/186/6/650362493/n650362493_718857_2578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" border="0" class="spotlight" height="604" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-ash1/v216/186/6/650362493/n650362493_718857_2578.jpg" width="452" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
I did come across an email that I had sent to my antenatal group, a few days after Inda had been born, which will definately help me with details as it was three and a half years ago now! (My how time flies).<br />
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Before starting I will give you some context and background. After some thought and reading, Chris and I had decided on a water birth with no intervention for our first birth. Now, after having had two babies, I feel like this was a very brave decision, as I really had no idea what I was getting into. I knew my two sister in laws had 3 babies between them at the time and both of them had delivered naturally. So, with that as my only influence (being the first in my peer group to start the baby train), I got my mind into gear and began Calm Birthing classes and seeing only one midwife for the duration of the pregnancy. This midwife, Jo, would turn out to be one of the most amazing women I have met in my life and one who has become a dear friend of our family and whom I respect highly, so much so that she also delivered our little Noa. Brilliant woman.<br />
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So anyway, pregnancy for me was quite stressful and my anxiety levels reached a new high, aka panic attacks. Although, I would say that I did not understand it as that at the time, it was quite frightening and as a result would impact my birthing immensely.<br />
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At 1am Wed 12th March, I got my first contraction. For a first time mum, this is something you are so unsure about... "was that it? Is this what I am waiting for?" I was lying in bed and whatever it was, it woke me up. I lay there waiting to see if it happened again and about 10mins later I felt it. Instead of waking Chris up for what could be nothing, I got up and watched some Gilmore Girls episodes until I was sure this was happening. At this early stage they were 5 minutes apart and quite intense for early labour, considering that some people don't even realise they are in early labour. <br />
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After a night of no sleep and constant contractions that were getting stronger, I was sure things were progressing. So at 7:30am we went into birthing suite. Jo had been on all night and so was at home sleeping, but another midwife, Sue was there who examined me and told me that I was only 1cm dilated! What! All that effort for one measley centimetre! I was worried about what was to come. <br />
We went home and laboured there and were told to come back in when things intensified. So I spent the entire day perched on the edge of our lounge in the only position I could get comfortable in. Any time I moved from that position, I lost all focus and concentration and the pain was much more intense.. so there I stayed. My mum and sister popped by which was hard because I couldn't really relax with them watching, so needless to say they didn't stay very long.<br />
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Twelve hours later the contractions were still 4-5 minutely but much more intense, so we went back in and upon assessment, was 4cm dilated, which I was happy with. The next eight hours were spent in the birthing suite bath, which is where I intended to birth this little girl. It was great. I felt fearful but not out of control.<br />
<br />
As the contractions increased in intensity, with no time in between, I was sure this was transistion (the crazy intense part before you are fully dilated and ready to push).<br />
<br />
{I have to add a little sidetrack here as I clearly remember at this point, a woman in the room next to me absolutely screaming like she was being tortured. I had not reached that point yet and completely freaked out. I was sobbing and telling Chris that there was no way I could do that and I wanted to go home!}<br />
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Back to labour... Jo got me out of the bath to check how far I had progressed and to my devastation I was still 4cm. I was gutted and completely started to unravel at this point. Once I was out of the bath, I realised the great pain relief the water had been providing and I just lost it. I could not get comfortable and was asking poor bewildered Chris to, "please help me!" (haha poor guy). It was decided that my waters would be broken and it was here that Jo suggested an epidural. They had discovered on ultrasound that Indie was actually posterior and thus things were progressing very slowly and I was having crazy back pain.<br />
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I was honestly unphased at this point with the epidural as it had been going on for so long and I was exhausted. Jo knew I didnt want it but thought it would be the best option given how much I was freaking out and how long labour had been going without progress. So I had the gas followed by the epidural. The gas really sent me into another dimension and I honestly don't remember much after that except leaping off the bed with the need to sit in the chair across from me as the anaesthestist was inserting the epidural needle into my back. In my mind that chair would solve all my issues and get rid of the pain... yeah gas is awesome haha. Chris tells me afterwards that I was waving my arms around in the air and saying "Woahhh." I don't remember any of that.<br />
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The next thing I knew I was blissed out on the bed and asking Chris why it had taken me so long to get the epidural? Chris started frantically flipping through, 'What to expect when your expecting' to find the parts on epidurals and what to expect. Hilarious.<br />
Jo propped me into the most comfortable position and suggested I get some sleep whilst the epidural worked it's magic of relaxing me and hopefully allowing bub to turn the right way around. However, in true Inda style, she was waiting for no one and within minutes, I felt this enormous pressure in my bottom that literally lifted me off the bed. I told Jo and she commented, "yes that is the baby Sarah. It will be there until she is born." But I guess I complained enough and she came to check what was going on. To her complete surprise I was already 10cms and ready to push.<br />
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I felt a sense of relief at this point as I saw it as the home stretch. This was it, I was about to meet our baby girl who we had been wondering about for 9 long months. It was a very surreal moment. The next one and a half hours was such hard work! Pushing was really hard, especially becuase I could feel nothing and had no urge to push. Jo was telling me when to push when I felt the pressure in my butt. I screamed, I swore (and apologised) and I said I couldn't do it, but eventually out came this head full of dark hair. <br />
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{At this point there was a room full of doctors. Doctors for me and doctors for Inda, as her heart rate had dropped to 70bpm and I had to be given an episiotomy to get her out. So as soon as her head had emerged the doctor said to Jo, "the cord is wrapped around her neck twice." I flipped and started shouting at the doctor to get it off, to which he replied he couldn't because it was too tight. He had to wait until the next contraction and I could push her out. Some kind of motherly something came over me and I was not waiting for another contraction. I just pushed as hard as I could to get her outta there and low and behold out she came! Thankyou Jesus!}<br />
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I remember Jo telling them to put her on my chest as they tried to give her straight to the paediatric team. I was so thankful because for those brief minutes I looked right into her big beautiful almond shaped eyes and exclaimed, 'she is beautiful!' I held an oxygen mask over her face for those few minutes before they swept her away to be taken to special care nursery. Although I didn't notice at the time, she had not cried at this point.<br />
<br />
Inda was not breathing well as she had taken alot of fluid on her lungs when coming out and it was not until they suctioned out the crap that she started screaming. They then took her out of the room and I remained to be stitched back together. Chris was feeling quite overwhelmed at this point and started to feel really faint and panicky. He turned an awful shade of white and asked to sit down. A kind nurse took him outside, sat him down and gave him an OJ. My poor man. It was pretty traumatic.<br />
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So after 28 hours of labour, it ended with the three of us in separate rooms and not at all how i had imagined it. However, the incredible relief of it being over and the unspeakable joy of becoming a mum to a beautiful little girl was still there and it was awesome.<br />
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Three years later and here she is. Who would have thought this little bundle of personality was wrapped up in that baby, so tiny and helpless. God is truly amazing.<br />
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<img alt="" aria-busy="true" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="425" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/297808_10150416443347494_650362493_10235582_102338394_n.jpg" width="640" />Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-36641197380053952322011-10-14T20:31:00.001+11:002011-10-14T20:35:11.718+11:00Milliefern beautiesCan you believe this kid is nearly a whole year old? It seems like only yesterday, I was in the labour room pushing this little beauty out of my body (too much?) <br />
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Anywho, for her birthday, I have been searching for a cute lion soft toy as she has a great love for all things, "raaaaahhh" and soft at the moment. So I got on etsy (normally not a good idea for materialistic addiction purposes) and stumbled across Millie Fern. <br />
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Check these little beauties out...<br />
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It was a toss up between that beautiful caramel coloured bunny and the lion. Of course I chose the lion. I hope Noa loves him as much as I do.<br />
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<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="567" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/195951_193716017329572_138163206218187_534832_5570913_n.jpg" width="640" />Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-63835414925050185572011-10-14T20:07:00.000+11:002011-10-14T20:07:58.451+11:00HerThe Jacksons were a sad tale of the social elite. Old Man Jackson was a high flying business man who lived the wealthy life, associating with noteables and bossing around anyone else who didnt come under that title. He was known around town for his big mouth and big arse, from days of indulging in life at the expense of others. Unfortunately, his big mouth, whilst making him a great business man was also his greatest downfall. Combining this with his lack of formal business education, it aint suprising then that he got screwed and went under in the worst fashion when me mum was about two. A family of nobility reduced to servant status. This affected Old Man Jackson in such a deep and secret way for many years. With a wife and six children to feed and clothe, of whom me mum was the youngest, there was no other option than to become a servant family for the wealthy of London. Their story is well known and still circulates today. They were a disgrace to their family and friends. Life suddenly became very hard.<br />
They lived in the servant quarters of a retired bank man and his family for many years. Me mum tells me that although times were hard, working sixteen hour days, seven days a week, these were the happiest memories of her growin' up years.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-72228946279441149602011-10-07T22:03:00.000+11:002011-10-07T22:03:57.062+11:00Holiday by the seaside<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Our family has just returned from a brief camping sojourn to a beautiful spot up the coast. Meeting up with some new friends and old, word had it that the weather was bad. But, upon arrival, God cleared up the rain and we had great weather! Maybe even too good. Combine the first good weather in weeks with holiday mode parents and the result is a sunburnt three year old. Eek.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Surf was good, company great and food exceptional. Besides being sleep deprived from a not so happy little camper, we returned feeling sunkissed and relaxed (sigh).</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xPHIa6GjSbE/To7TEyecr9I/AAAAAAAAAbM/mPg4Sm_5U7g/s1600/IMGP6997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xPHIa6GjSbE/To7TEyecr9I/AAAAAAAAAbM/mPg4Sm_5U7g/s640/IMGP6997.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aW3vSdwFPUc/To7UOgKeamI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/tfIfEcFGmiE/s1600/IMGP7039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aW3vSdwFPUc/To7UOgKeamI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/tfIfEcFGmiE/s640/IMGP7039.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NS_6J_XBsVU/To7X3caRAkI/AAAAAAAAAbY/jCyxgDUu8gk/s1600/IMGP7001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NS_6J_XBsVU/To7X3caRAkI/AAAAAAAAAbY/jCyxgDUu8gk/s640/IMGP7001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kmAHhPfeXbQ/To7Y7xt1qdI/AAAAAAAAAbc/peB9_mezIHY/s1600/IMGP7065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kmAHhPfeXbQ/To7Y7xt1qdI/AAAAAAAAAbc/peB9_mezIHY/s640/IMGP7065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T_WNfJY5xTE/To7ZzBjaSmI/AAAAAAAAAbg/yP5W1q8nUcw/s1600/IMGP7154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T_WNfJY5xTE/To7ZzBjaSmI/AAAAAAAAAbg/yP5W1q8nUcw/s640/IMGP7154.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcTtFyaa6so/To7bU23GJcI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Xs7iMLkJ3LI/s1600/IMGP7135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcTtFyaa6so/To7bU23GJcI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Xs7iMLkJ3LI/s640/IMGP7135.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4SoqhnPgUPs/To7cbmvTQEI/AAAAAAAAAbo/ibJmtcRASPI/s1600/IMGP6960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4SoqhnPgUPs/To7cbmvTQEI/AAAAAAAAAbo/ibJmtcRASPI/s640/IMGP6960.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">What do you like to do on holidays?</div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-6038930148233040622011-10-01T21:04:00.000+10:002011-10-01T21:04:34.703+10:00Sibling RivalryOur little Miss Noa is on the crawl and with her new found love of freedom has come Inda's frustration. Anything Inda has, Noa now wants. I think it is gorgeous, Inda has a different opinion....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Gp22y4HZtg/TobrqqS_ZaI/AAAAAAAAAa4/83rvQ6vnu3A/s1600/IMGP6830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Gp22y4HZtg/TobrqqS_ZaI/AAAAAAAAAa4/83rvQ6vnu3A/s640/IMGP6830.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-6750311183970577432011-09-14T13:53:00.001+10:002011-09-14T13:59:43.041+10:00My daughter is a hoarderYou could call it collecting but this is something else... this my friends is more like hoarding.<br />
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Every nook, cranny and shelf in her room is filled with trinkets, tit bits and well... rubbish... to me. But to her it is all her "special things." Whilst at times it drives me up the wall, there is something lovely about seeing her have her own style and place for things, without me telling her where to put it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u3gmA200zzo/TnAktpKbObI/AAAAAAAAAaw/uzIFcP8uw8w/s1600/IMGP6812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" rba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u3gmA200zzo/TnAktpKbObI/AAAAAAAAAaw/uzIFcP8uw8w/s640/IMGP6812.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-85182818414659155962011-08-22T17:54:00.000+10:002011-08-22T17:54:18.736+10:00The Beetle ShackSo my friend, Em has this blog that is a must to check out. I am sure you have already heard of it but it is called the <a href="http://www.thebeetleshack.blogspot.com/">Beetle Shack</a>, a place from where Em shares her life and her loves. She recently had a photo shoot with <a href="http://www.timcoulson.blogspot.com/">Tim Coulson</a>... (jealous x). Check it out. And by the way she is super attractive and her kidlets are oh so cute... just warning you.<br />
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Told ya. Gotta get me one of those bows xRamblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024632527818240272.post-3510728343755124812011-08-14T16:31:00.002+10:002011-08-14T16:38:58.298+10:00HerWe seemed to walk on and on, her swift steps slowing to a trudge like drag. "It's ok little one, won't be long now," she whispered softly. As the sun began to fade and twilight lit the sparse expanse, my insides were burning with hunger and I decided to tell her so. I began to wail as desperately as my malnourished frame would allow and suddenly my soft resting place began jolting and knocking, turning from a safe place into a frantic and dangerous one. "Shhh," she pleaded as she jostled me up and down. "Please shhh."<br />
Suddenly she stopped and I was pulled forcefully out into the cold, wet air. Putting me into a dark corner, inside an old wooden shed that smelt of animal waste, she covered me with a mound of dry hay and ran outside locking the door behind her. <br />
They say me mum was not someone born of noble wealth, infact she was born into one of the poorest families in all of England. Her life began not unlike mine, the big difference was she was recognised as part of a family but one that did not really recognise her.Ramblingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04948403977543181452noreply@blogger.com1