Killing time

Well ive checked out of the hotel and now have only 8 hours till i take off. What i am going to do in those 8 hours i dont know. My bags are in the hotel still till i leave but i dont want to get to hot and sweaty as i dont want to have to change. Anyway , stop whinging, theres lots of things to do. First a nice cold coke and a natter on the computer. Back home in less than a day!!!!!

Two Sleeps To Go!!!!!

Just a quickie tonight.



Xander and Marshall were good and ate up all their dinner. They both wanted dessert and got to choose - icecream or a donut. Xander picked the icecream while Marshall went for the donut. After scoffing his icecream, Xander pleaded for a donut fow a couple of minutes before he realised that Mummy wasn't going to give in. He left the table to read. Marshall followed along behind him, carrying his donut still because he'd been busy playing with cars. They sat down together to read Monster Inc, when i heard Xander say "Can i have a taste of your donut Marshall? Can i?" Marshall turned to him and shared beautifully. Makes a mother's heart melt!! I took a quick snap as Marshall continued to fed Xander his donut!

Busy day

Well ive just back into the hotel after a rather busy day. I started at 7.30 sitting in the lobby waiting for a tour bus or similar as I had booked a tour of teh Mekong Delta and the Cu Chi tunnels. Then a nicely dressed chap comes over and I get in a Toyota Camry and off we go. Then he tells me that Mekong is 70km one way and Cu Chi 70 the other way. Long day i reckon. But it is in air conditioned comfort and the bloke speaks great english and is telling me stuff the whole time.

Once more into the mental traffic, how we didnt run anyone over i dont know, (PS the road toll in Vietnam is about 8000 per year.) We go through the city and onto the 'highway'. Lane changing is a hobby her by the way. Then a long drive on always busy roads to the Mekong.

The Mekong is a huge river and we get into a junk to go over the river and across to one of the islands. Then into a little rowed junk to the island middle. It is a bit of eco tourist route then. They walk you through the village and see life as it is. Kind of nice and relaxing. Then into a cafe for rice wine and nibbles, more walking through mangrovey type areas and then to lunch. Now I was a little concerned over what I would get but it was lovely. A whole Elephant Ear fish, spring rolls, soup and rice and lamb. The fish was taken off the bone and wrapped in rice paper with cucumber. Then onto a large fruit selection. The biggest portions ever.

Now very full we walked back to the junk and the trip back down the river to the launching place. The river is Yarra brown and has hundreds of boats coming and going.

Back now into the car and off to the Snake Hospital. Now ive been to many zoo type places and well this was weird. It looked like a derilict construction site with a few cakes over the place. Not many snakes except for the cobra that hissed at me. Yes i was a little scared. Then a leopard in a small steel cage with concrete floor. A few monkeys, crocs etc in the same condition. Wasnt upset to leave that one.

Now a big drive to Cu Chi tunnels. The driver put some music on for me and the first song was Cliff Richard!!! Nice though and it put me to sleep for a bit. The drive through Cu Chi village was bumpy and showed a bitmore of teh rural life. It all looks like hard work to me.

Cu Chi was bombed into oblivion during the war and the villagers had long since started a tunnel system to avoid the French (well wouldnt we all) and then the Americans. The system went for 250 km at its peak. Into the centre and a video of life in the tunnels. It is obvious but interesting to see the other side and the impact on them. They werent very complimentary of the septics. No mention of Australia though. Just as we left to walk to the tunnels it bucketed down and we got rather wet. A long walk showing different tunnels and traps and then the chance to have a shot of a rifle/machine gun. Dad and Sam , they had a 30 cal there and I was going to have a go for you but it 1USD a round so i thought itmight cost a bit if i got carried away.

Now the tunnels. I sort of said i wouldnt go down before i left as i wasnt sure if i could stand it, but when i got there i didnt really have a choice. In we go, very cramped and hot and rather scary. Im not afraid to say it. How they lived and moved down there for weeks at a time i dont know.

Back at the hotel and a change and a bit of shopping. I got some good shirts for the boys. Felt like i'd been raped though. show a little interest and you get dragged into a corner, sat down and jumped on. Wouldnt stop touching me knee and saying 'handsome man" . She asked 2,500,000 dong for the shirts. They confuse you and i had to return to my idiots guide to exchange rates, written on my hand, to get her down to 600,000. They're good though but i feel dirty!!! Weird isnt it, i really dont like it, never mind. I have late check out at 1pm, the best they do. I will get up early then off to the market for more of the same. not long to go now.

PS Ill add photos later

The Journey Home

Well I've made it Ho Chi Minh City. The flight was long tedious but okay. I scored three seats to myslef on both flights which was a god send, but sleep is still an issue. The transfer to the Vietnam flight in Frankfurt was interesting, they had no idea and obviously neither did i. Was a tad confusing and therefore stressful. Of course it all worked out in the end and here i am. Thank god for inbuilt screens , i watched a few movies as it was a 12 hour flight!

Landed in Vietnam and they have the slowest customs etc checks but then into the fray. Got a taxi straight to the hotel. I havent been to an Asian country for a while and i have forgotten how crazy the scooter riders are. My record was three adults and a 2 year old. Got to the hotel, checked in, (it all panned out yay) and had a sniff about before a 2 hour snooze.

Off into the traffic for a bit now.

Well im at Heathrow

Im sitting here at Heathrow airport, filling in my definately last UK blog. Ive checked in okay. There was some worry about queues after all the scares but it was no dramas and i was straight through. Had another smashing English brekky at the airport with Sam and then looking throught the hundreds of shops in the terminal. They even have a Harrods!!! I have a few coins left so i got a mag and some lollies and then sit and wait. Im getting good at that in airports.

I am so looking forward to see the kids and Dette again i cant wait. It has been fantastic being back again and Matts wedding was a real treat. Every where you go have heaps of memorys but as Elsie said the other day i have lived longer in Australia now than England. Thanks Sam , Sara and the kids for puttting me up. I always felt totally welcome and part of the family. The kids were a dream and it was great being able to get to know them better. i'll miss, "uncle tich......." .

Im a bit nervous about Vietnam only because it is the unknown but i know ill have a ball. I have a little bit of luggage space left to get some bargains. The hotel looks nice so thats good The Kimdo in the heart of Ho Chi Minh. Oh well best get on the plane i suppose. Hopefully ill blog from Vietnam!!!

Last Day

Well today is my last day in England. I went into Sutton to get a few last odds and ends and then off to the Dodes with Sam, Cammy and Melissa. Had a cup of tea and some more of dodos cake and then it was a sad goodbye. They were okay and it wasnt as bad as i thought it would be. Just as we left it absolutely chucked it down and there was an indian wedding party in the street, all a bit surreal really.
Home and packing, Flan, Dina and Milla popped over to say goodbye and then more packing. Its not easy getting two weeks of purchasing and presents into an already full suitcase. I made it with a few things to be posted. So im doing the last blog from Sutton with the flight at 9.50 from Heathrow. Early night tonight i think . Hopefully ill be able to do a vietnam blog. see you then.

Another nice day spent doing a little shopping and then playing at home. The Amigoes all slept through again, so Mummy was happy - especially seeing at how she didn't get to bed until a ridiculous hour because she was talking to Daddy on Skype!

The boys loved watching their Daddy read them a story on the computer! Mummy even had to figure out how to loop it because she got sick of hearing, "Again please Mummy!"

A lovely dinner, with all three eating everything (the promise of icecream does amazing things!) and off to bed without a hitch.

Mummy's going for a massage tomorrow morning, so should have a lovely day!

Xander ~ "Why does he have his ear collectors on?" Talking about Daddy's message for bed time with him wearing headphones!

Marshall ~ Says his own name now if you ask him! "Mar-shall" He also ran to the computer for his goodnight message yelling "puter, puter"

Amelia ~ Splashed so much in the bath she got Mummy wet!!

Flans

Flan came down and had tea with us all and then off to the Villa. The atmosphere was great as it was Martin O'Neills first game in charge at home and it was almost a sell out. Reading scored first which put Flan in a foul mood but although they were a bit crap they pulled through for a 2-1 victory. Then we dropped Sam off and chip butties at Tamworth. Sorry , pics still in Flans phone.

The next day we went to Sutton and took Alfie for a run in Sutton Park, the weather was smashing. Then off to the White Horse for a couple of pints and a meal.







Dette and I had been there with Xander in the past so it was a friendly place and cracking food.

Bit of a poke around Sutton, (buying cough pastilles for mum in boots) and home. Relax tonight i think. We cant change my tickets so it looks like an earyl morning Sunday!!!!

We had another good day.
Although it was raining the boys went out to play in their new sandpit. Mummy rugged them up and sent them out with jackets and beanies, naturally Marshall's beanie didn't last long. He also took off his shoes and socks at one point!

Amelia was a very good little girl, going down to sleep both morning and afternoon without a fight. She slept for 3 hours in the afternoon and had to be woken up! Marshall also had a big sleep but Xander just had a rest. When Mummy went in to tell him he could come out, he'd moved his pillow and blanket onto the floor and was resting on Elephant!

Off to bed after a bath without any hassles at all. Marshall now tells Xander when he wants more milk so that Xander can be his slave boy and come tell Mummy!

Xander ~ Mummy "Who weed on the floor?"
Xander "Not me"
Mummy "Then who did it?"
Xander "Don't know. I think it was an old person"
Mummy "Well, I'm the only old person here and it wasn't me!"
Xander "You're not old Mummy, you're young!"

When asked if his ice-cream was yummy, "Yes, it certainly is!"


Marshall ~ Tells Mummy as soon as he's done a poo now, and even goes to get the clean nappy himself!

Amelia ~ Absolutely beautiful!!!

Eight Sleeps To Go!!

Well, we've managed to survive to this point, and we're 2/3 of the way through! Mummy took a dive from work today! She took the Amigoes to school and then came home and relaxed! She was intending to do a little housework, and a little was about all she did! Two loads of washing and putting the clothes in the Chinese Laundry away was about all she managed, but she definately needed a rest!

The boys had a lovely morning and enjoyed a nice, relaxed breakfast before heading off to school. It was a big change from the usual rush in the mornings. They had a great time at school, and Xander told Mummy she has a beautiful painting of a ghost coming her way soon! Must be a strange ghost if the colour of paint in his hair was anything to go by ~ it was streaked with orange!

In the car on the way home Marshall said that 'Bailey' had bitten him again. When asked if he had bitten Bailey back, he answered, "Once"! That's Mummy's cleaver little boy, already getting his ordinal numbers sorted and he's not even in kinda!!

Xander and Marshall are in for a surprise tomorrow if the rain holds off. Mummy bought some sand and filled the shell on Monday night and they still haven't had a chance to check out what's inside it! She also found the buckets that she had when she was a little girl in the shed, so if it's sunny tomorrow everyone's going to be building some sand castles!

Nothing else exciting, although today Mummy rang the police to tell them of a crazy old woman standing in the middle of the road, saw a car accident out the front of our house, and had a midget (a real one!) abuse her for not letting him jump infront of her in the checkout line at Aldi. Maybe next time it'd be safer to just go to work!!!!!!!

fish and chips

Bit of a lazy day. Dossed around the house for a while then went bowling for lunch with Sara and teh children. We all did rather well but i got a turkey!!! WOW. Pops and Cammy really enjoyed it too, loads of fun. Then home pick up sam and off to Pype Hayes Park for fish and chips. Bit greasier than i remember them but still a trip down memory lane. A woman in the chippy goes, "are you a policeman, My sons a sergeant" Then the usual conversation ensued. Bit of telly then bed. Had a few dramas getting Skype to work tonight but it was nice to hear the boys voices again. Amelia even gave me a gurgle!!!



PS . Dette the England top was a bargain

A wonderful cake

Sam missed the bus. Yes boring i know but thats how my day started. I then drove him into work so I am getting the hang of driving in Brum again. Then Sara, Cammy, Melissa and I went to Penns Hall (which is now a fancy gym) for a swim. Both Melissa and Cammy are very good in the water now and although it wasnt hot outside it was nice to cool off.

When we got back we had some sangers and then I rang the dodes. I had a good call with Dodo who seemed to hear quite well and at about 2 the kids and I set off for West Brom. We stopped in at Asda to get some snaps of Matts wedding but the bloke didnt understand me, apparently i was too Australian!!!!!!






Dodo and Elsie were pleased to see us again and we had the usual lovely barrage of tea and treats. Elsie got down some wedding albums and albums of the children. I had something to post so Dodo jumped (figuratively speaking) and we set down the shops. Dodo seemed to really enjoy herslf and looked after Pops at the traffic lights etc. We did a bit of shopping, (a bottle of sherry) and back. Had a piece of the cake that Dodo had worked so hard at making up against the chagrin of Elsie. It tasted absolutley smashing. Stayed for a few hours and back to 165 for tea.


On the journey home questions posed to the kids.

1. What is your favourite colour.
Cammy - "Blue"
Melissa - "Pink"

2. What is your favourite number
Cammy - "6 but it might be 7 soon."
Melissa - "4"

3. What do you want to be when you grow up.
Cammy - "A policeman in Australia." (Cameron was earlier informed that police get free Maccas at home)
Melissa - "Princes Leia."

THE CAKE!!!!

Matthew and Elizabeth's wedding

ENGLAND POST
As with all weddings the bride was sent away on the night before and Matthew had his last night of freedom. We had planned to go out for a curry or pub meal but were rather tired. John had also arrived late after enduring 7 hours on the M6. So we had a doner kebab delivered and a few chinese beers.

The next morning arrived quickly and we were up at about nine and Matt cooked a full english, yes including black pudding. We slowly prepared as we had lots of time. All suited up we went to the pub on the way and had a calming pint of guiness each. I still hadnt seen the church so we set off at twelve to get the lay of the land.



The weather was a bit shaky with a few drops of rain. It was only a 10 minute drive and we were meeting the vicar at a beauiful little country church.


It was very old and had a real charm to it. We set ourselves up and the rev ran me through a few of the finer points. It wasnt much later when the music started. Matthew turned around and Liz was in the church, yes he looked! She looked stunning and the service began. It was a very traditional service and I remembered the rings, yay.

It had turned a bit nasty outside so we did the photos of the signing and group shots inside. Bit of a rush to the cars and some more snaps at a local farm/house thing, Bickerstoft i think. Very nice though and Liz had her horse there. William as with most horses didnt like me too much.




Off then to the wedding breakfast (not sure why they call it that at 3pm). A lovely beef roast with all the trimmings. The hall looked great with all the candles, cant really see it in the photos. Then it was speech time, Jeff (liz's brother in law), Matt and me were a tad nervy. Jeff and Matt lead off and did sterling jobs, bit of a tear in the eye for me really. Mine i think went well, a few well dones anyway.

The English way is to then have a hour or so break and another reception for the night guests. In this time , John (Usher - Vesey boy) and I booked in to our rooms and relaxed for 10 or so. Then back down for more merriment and beer. The evening had buffet with a slightly wierd combo, (chilli, cheese sandwiches, cheese pizza, pasta salad and coleslaw) but it was all very tasty. The DJ was a wacky one with games etc but he certainly got people up and involved. The dancing and fun went till 10 when we had the first dance. Frankie goes to Hollywood - The power of love. As Matt put it, " a bloody gay anthem." He wasnt at all keen about this dance and he shuffled around for a bit. I joined him then with Jo and he skulked off when it finished. You cant teach an old dog etc. We kept on partying till 1.30 when they kicked us out and the bride and groom went off to bed.

The hotel was okay and comfortable but as Matt put it, " Its only a 2 star don't get excited." They put on another full English for brekky and we went through last nights events. We all then said our goodbyes and John and I headed off back down the M6.

I only spent a bit of time with LIz but she was a smasher. I also think i might have convinved them to come to Aus in the not too distant. They are landing in Greece as i write this and looking forward to 7 days on an island, lovely.

Yesterday was fantastic! We all went to Chris and Linden's place where Mummy dropped off the boys so she could quickly do some shopping with Amelia. The boys had a fantastic time playing with Mitchell, and then Mummy came back with some yummy donuts for morning tea.

Watched a few movies and had a bath before going to bed.

Another bad night, with all three of the Amigoes waking at some point. Xander wanted Daddy, Marshall wanted milk, and Amelia wanted to poo!!! Even though Mummy only had four hours sleep (her own fault, she rang Andrea from Uni for a chat that lasted 5 hours!!) we had a good day.


The boys spent most of the morning outside playing. They had so much funny, doing their impersonation of the Flowerpot Men!

They came in for lunch and then played up again at sleep time! Neither of them slept a wink! Mummy almost cracked it, but luckily Amelia had a really long afternoon sleep so she didn't have to cope with three grumpy guts! Then, it was back outside to play in the sunshine.

While the boys were playing Mummy cooked a yummy meal of crumbed chicken with baked potatoes, pasta, peas and corn. A few hassles at dinner time because the boys were so tired, but then it was bath time. Amelia gets in first now, when the water levels are low, and the boys help Mummy clean her. Then she's whipped out and more water is added before the boys jump in. Amelia had her hair washed today so the boys insisted on having theirs done as well!

Off to bed after milk and stories, and all three are now sound alseep. Mummy has heaps of work to do but wanted to write this first so Daddy doesn't miss them too much!

We love you!!!!!!!

Ar Aye-Scouser Land

ENGLAND POST

Just a quick post, spent yesterday looking around liverpool and went to Anfield. Have a lovely long chat with Dette and the kids. It was nice to hear Dette happy and that the boys had had a fun day. We went to the reception centre this morning and se up the tables etc and sorted a few more things out.

A Lovely Day

We had a lovely day today. When we all woke up we had breakfast and watched The Fairies and Play School, then Mummy kicked the boys out of the house! Xander and Marshall played outside for ages, running around and having a great time. They only came in when it was time for lunch.



After eating lots of yogurt and sandwiches we all read a few books together and then it was time for Xander and Marshall to have a sleep. Mummy had a little rest on the couch too!! Then Amelia woke up and had lunch for the first time! Mummy gave her apple and pear and she gobbled it all up!

When the boys woke up they had fun playing with Amelia on the floor. She had so much fun laughing and giggling at them, and they were both very gentle with her.









We had pizza for tea, then a little play with all the toys that we'd up-ended on the floor earlier, before Xnader helped Mummy pack them all away. A quick bath and then it was time for milk and bed. We had a talk to Daddy and told him that we're missing him lots!!


Xander ~ "Mummy, change Marshall's nappy. He has a pooey bottom." When asked how he knew, he replied "Because i can smell it."
Xander ~ When Mummy was changing Amelia's nappy "Can i have a look at Amelia. Amelia doesn't have any bottom!) After it was explained to him, "I have a penis. Look!" (and then he flashed it out, very pleased with himself!!)

Marshall ~ Climbed out of his cot by himself this morning!!!!

Come on England

ENGLAND POST

Spent the morning organising a few things for the trip up to Liverpool and seemed to be running from shop to shop. Then drove into Brum and colleted Sam, we left at 4pm ish and had some terrible traffic. It rained a lot and this made everyone slow down. We were to meet Matt and Flan at the hotel but we ended up going straight to the ground. The atmosphere was fantastic and the streets were lined with red and white shirts. Old Trafford looked huge and with a lot of English clubs the pitch was smack bang in the middle of houses. I gave Matt and Flan the England shirts
I had had done and we looked a treat. Our seat was right on the corner flag about 5 rows back, cracking view but a few drops of rain fell on us. The match was a cracker with 4 goals all in our corner. This is something i have always wanted to do and i had shivers down my spine as the national anthem and Vindaloo were sung.



We left the game and were booked in for a curry, unfortunately the traffic was a pig again so by the time we got clear and back to the apartment it was late. We finally found a chinese at 1200 and had a banquet. Too much food and too late but it was very pleasant. We got some take away beers and headed back to the apartment, Sam had to go home for a meeting in the morning and I think we managed a beer each before we flaked out. All very old and boring but we enjoyed the night.

The next morning Matt and I left Flan and drove up to Liverpool. Matt's house is lovely, a large 3 storey place with loads of room. We had a cup of tea and went into town. A quick look at Anfield, Liverpools home ground, on the way and then onto Albert Dock. This is a new development and very good for tourists. A little bit of shopping later and back home. Liz was there and it was lovely to finaly meet her. An Asda curry awaits us in the oven with the left over Chinese Beers.

Bad Day At Home

Mummy is exhausted!! The boys had her up a couple of times last night and she woke up with a splitting headache. Then, after going to the shops to send Daddy his visa, we came home and had lunch. Mummy was DYING for the boys sleep time so she could cuddle with Amelia on the couch and have a sleep! Unfortunately the boys had a different idea. Neither of them slept at all! The played in their room for about 40 minutes, while Mummy had a spac attack about them not sleeping! Needless to say she didn't get her rest and was in a ferral mood for the rest of the night!

Marshall went to bed at 6pm after getting another little bump on his head while trying to get down from the bench stool. Xander was off after him at 7:30, and Amelia not long later at 8:30. Mummy watched the first episode of Australian Celebrity Survior and is now ready for bed. The house looks like a tornado has hit it but she couldn't care less!

Off for a bit

ENGLAND POST

Off to the England game tonight. cant wait. The blog might miss a few days as im also up to Liverpool for the wedding. I leave today and wont be back at Sams till Sunday Arvo. I will try and update and Dette i will call as well. I will give you the Kings number when i get there, just to make sure you have it. We have Skype up and running at Sams so its been nice talking to the family without worrying about cost.

I want to drive my car.

ENGLAND POST.

Sam put me on the insurance on the Rover today so i had the day bombing around sutton etc. I did the nostalgia run and visited Wylde Green Primary, Kempson Ave, The fields etc. Lots had changed and everything was the same. Make sense??? It was fun though and i also got some errands done. I even put a load of washing on the line!!! I managed to find my way into Brum and had a long look around the bull ring and St Martins church. I was rather knackered by the end as i reckon i would have walked 20 km. Off to the Kings tomorrow after the football. The papers reckon there will only be 35000 attendance which is a shame but i dont really care . No Beckham either BOO. Still plugging away at the best man speech, had a few ideas and got a core down. Im hoping to finish it off tomorrow morning on the PC and print out a draft. Uncle Brian rang with a couple of suggestions and im also waiting on input from Matts chum , John. Had a bit of a food nostalgia day too. Shreddies for brekky, saveloy and chips for lunch, pork farm sausage roll for a snack, A can of lilt and vimto and prawn cocktail crisps later on. There goes the 2kg i lost. never mind it was fun. Sam has ordered the Villa tickets for next week too so it is a football holiday.

The King

ENGLAND POST

Sam had to goto work today so I took the kids for a bike ride to the shops down the road. When we got back the King of Sutton had arrived. We had a cup of tea and a good catch up then went to try on my suit. I had over estimated my size a bit so was pleased to get it to fit. Made some plans for the rest of the week and had fish and chips for lunch. With Sara and the children staying the night at Jo and Nevs Sam and I had beer, pizza and a violent movie (Battle Royale - weird asian thing). Miss the amigos heaps and after dettes post with Marshall cracking his scone, well. More Big Brother and off to bed.

Marshall's Head

For some reason the pictures didn't come up below, so here goes.

The Big Bang!

Yesterday was good. The Amigoes and Mummy went to the big shops to get some things and ended up having lunch there. Mummy bought some yogurts and the boys ate them then played for a while. The were completely tuckered out when they got home, and Xander even had a sleep, even though he tried to resist it!


While the boys slept, Amelia and Mummy played!!


Had another good sleep last night but we were all a bit harrassed getting ready this morning. Xander even said to his mummy, breaking her heart, "You're not a good mummy!" That was when she asked for just 5 minutes alone to get things organised. He made her cry. :(

Everything was ok at tea time tonight, but then it hit the fan. Marshall tripped over and hit his head on the change table as he was giving kisses before bed. Before Gran could even pass him to Mummy, his head had started swelling. A cold cloth and five minutes later he was smiling again. Tough kid! All asleep once agin!

A Welsh party

ENGLAND POST




Set off to goto Wales for Freyas 10th Birthday party. Its quite a long drive so we decided to have a stop off at Shrewsbury. Bit of a nostalgic destination as we spent many days on the bank of the river watching bubbles in the water. As we drove in i didnt remember anything. We found a lovely flower garden and had a nice stroll there. The weather wasa bit overcast but nice enough. Then we walked down to the river and over the bridge. Now this i remember. There was a lovely old pub next to the bridge so we popped in for a roast lunch.





The off further into Wales to `Richard and Carols for Freya's party. Usual kids party with a wonderful talent show put on by the children. Cammy Second , Pops Third. rigged we reckon.



Didnt get home till 9ish so a little bit of big brother, very funny by the way a contestent has tourettes and is priceless to watch, then off to bed. Miss the family heaps after the party as I heard daaaaddy all the time and it asnt my boys!!!!

The Dodes come for a visit

ENGLAND POST

Sam and I set off and picked up the Dodes and brought them back to 165. We were thinking of having a picnic but the weather wasnt as nice as we hoped. We went through the Disney photos and watched a Mornington Peninsula `DVD. A tad boring. Soup for lunch and then we helped the kids with the pressies from Aussie Grandma and Grandfer. Dodo had great fun having a go at the dragonfly mobile and we vowed to buy her one. She was pretty good at it too.

Sam took the Dodes home a bit later and I took Cammy and Pops for a bike ride to the park. Great fun even though I was a bit rusty on two wheels. It was nice hearing the wood pigeons in the park and smelling the countryside. Got back from the bike ride and then Flan, Dina and Milla arrived. It was the first time id seen Milla and she is beautiful. She was a bit shy but very cute. We had a chinky take away and a Pint of Boddingtons for tea.

Spoke to the King and orgainsed what needs doing for the wedding. Need to put my mind to a Speech I guess. Have a couple of things floating around but need to write em down. He's coming down tomorrow and were trying on the suit.

Another One Bites The Dust!!

Well, another day down!!

The Amigoes were good today and had plenty of time outside playing. Amelia had a good go in her Jolly Jumper while Mummy did some washing. The boys loved sitting in front of her encouraging her to laugh.

Xander is trying to resist his day time sleep but is still happy to go for a 'rest' Marshall had another good sleep, but Amelia took some convincing. Mummy felt like an ogre for letting her cry, but after about 15 minutes she was out like a light. She had to be woken up after 3 hours!!

We had wedges and quiche for dinner. Mummy's friend from work, Monica, delivered a stack of cooked meals yesterday and the yummy quiches were from her. Marshall ate it all up without any complaints, but Xander needed a little bribing ("One more bite and then another wedge!") Amelia had a lovely concoction of carrot and potato!
The boys had a bath while Mummy feed Amelia and then it was time for stories. Xander helped with the reading by adding in the huffs and puffs in the Three Little Pigs, while Marshall named all of the animals in his book.

All down to sleep without any trouble, although Marshall just woke up. Mummy and Daddy made a big mistake in bringing him out the other night because now he wants to do it all the time! Mummy was strong and left him in his bed screaming, figuring that if Xander woke up at least she'd have somebody to cuddle tonight, but he didn't even move! Marshall gave up after 5 minutes so lets hope that's the last we hear from him!

We miss Daddy so much, and it's only been 3 days! We hope he's having fun. Mummy reckons he owes her big time!!!!!!!!

Xander ~ Sat with his animals, making up a conversation between them! Mummy has kids in Gr 3/4 that can't do that!!!

Marshall ~ said circle, star and square in the bath when putting the shapes into the boat. Mummy was very proud!

Amelia ~ stayed happy on her tummy for ages after her bath! She was enjoying the massage Mummy was giving her.

Mummy ~ LOVES her new Enjo glove!!!! She cleaned the kitchen tonight for FUN! She can't wait to get her new bathroom glove to clean the shower! Daddy might come home to a clean house yet!!

P.S. Mummy reckons that if Daddy's not here she can do whatever she wants, so...the boys had their nails painted red today!! Only their thumbs, but Marshall did insist when he found the nail polish, and then Xander wanted in on it. Don't worry Daddy, it'll be removed tomorrow.

Made it here

Well i made it. It turns out that the phrase is true. You get what you pay for. The flight was long and hard work with a few amusing and annoying incidents along the way . Heres a top 5.



5. Terrorists deciding that Heathrow was a good target on the day after i land. close that
4. Wandering around Saigon Airport a bit like a puppy and making a friend who flew with me to Heathrow
3. Same friend and I scraping 10 USD to buy 2 beers at the same airport.
2. Finding out that the departure tax was not paid and i would need to scrape some more cash to get out of `nam
1. The customs bloke at Saigon insisting I look like David Beckham. Well he has a point.


Anyway the crap bit over it was great to have Sam to welcome me at the airport and we drove off to Sara's parents place to have some lunch and pick up Cammy and Pops. It was great to see them and really nice that i felt a part of their lives again straight away.

Then a quick shower and off with Sara to the Dodes. Elsie came to the door and wasn't expecting us til Sunday. She was very excited, I carried on into the lounge and Dodo looked as if i was a burglar for a couple of seconds. Then there was a few 'me babbies' and kisses. She was really surprised and happy. A few sausage rolls later and off to 165 for a nap. more later......

One Down...Twenty To Go!!!!

Well, we made it through the first night...just!! All three of the amegoes went down to sleep without a problem, but all of them woke at some time throughout the night too! Marshall was distraught because he'd only had 30 minutes sleep all day, Xander was complaining of a 'sore foot' because he'd insisted on wearing his brother's socks to bed and they were too small and too tight, and Amelia was hungry! Xander ended up sleeping on Daddy's side of the bed from around 5 am, let's hope it doens't become a habit! So all up, Mummy feels a little 'uuggghh' today.

We got a text message telling us Daddy was safely in Germany, so now Mummy's not as stressed. She doesn't like not knowing what's happening!!

Mummy's running around frantically trying to tidy the house for an Enjo party tonight. Xander's been helping (a little!), Marshall's helped lots by sleeping for 4 hours, but Amelia's not being too cooperative! Luckily Mummy doesn't need to have a clean house...that's what the Enjo lady's coming here to do!!

The three amegoes having a cuddle on the couch

Not a very good picture, but the boys playing in a car at the airport before we said goodbye to Daddy.

P.S. Mummy's getting a cold. Yippee!!!

Daddies off

Well im here at Melbourne airport and missing the three amigos and Dette already. But im excited about a great adventure and dont want to waste the oppurtunity the family have given me. I have about 30 minutes before departure and need wees already. The boys I dont think understood what was going on and i tried not to upset them. LOVE YOU ALL. DADDY

Well, Xander and Marshall had a good time playing with Daddy tonight. He read them lots of books and played with the puppets after dinner instead of giving them a bath. They got an extra special hug and then Daddy put them to bed. Amelia even had fun playing on the floor with him! She was laughing and kicking lots.

Tomorrow morning we all have to be up early to get Daddy to the airport on time. Xander and Marshall know that Daddy's going to England to visit Uncle Sam, Aunty Sara, Cammy, Pops, Dodo, Elsie and "Daddy's friend Matt", but they really have no idea what that means...yet!!! Mummy made a calendar so they can cross off the days until he gets back home (21 sleeps!)Let's hope Mummy can keep her sanity (or what's left of it!!) for the next 3 weeks!!

Fingers crossed.

Big Bed For Amelia!!

Amelia is now in her own room in a cot! She looks so little in it, but it was definately time...she's outgrown her bassinet! Mummy and Daddy are hoping that now she has more room she'll stop waking up in the early hours of the morning!

Xander and Marshall had fun playing outside with Gran while Mummy and Daddy were at work. They played on the swings while Gran sorted out the neglected garden!

Our Busy Day

We had a very busy day today. Xander and Marshall went with Daddy to visit Aunty Catherine and Uncle Hugh. Daddy is borrowing Aunty Catherine's iPod for his trip to England. Xander and Marshall had fun playing with Lilly and Sophie and then Daddy took them to Grandma and Grandfa's house. Grandma had bought each of them a new book so they read them together. Grandma had also bought a beautiful blanket for Amelia.

Mummy and Amelia went to Michelle's baby shower. Everyone thought Amelia was the most beautiful baby! They were amazed at how good she was!

When everyone got home we all went grocery shopping. Not very exciting, but lots of fun with three little kids!!

Xander ~ Grandma had warm fuzzies when Xander turned to her out of the blue and said, "Grandma, I love you." They then had an arguement over who loved who the most!!!

Marshall ~ Fell asleep in the car holding on to his new book. When he dropped it he woke up and started crying. Daddy gave it back to him to hold, and he went back off to sleep, holding it until they got home! He thought it was hilarious when he did a burp! He only had 30 minutes sleep so he was a little rag-a-muffin for the rest of the day!

Amelia ~ Was happy to get cuddles from everyone at Michelle's baby shower. She showed off her smiles and impressed everyone with her babbling, which sounded exactly like "Ma-ma"!!!

shopping

Marshall and Amelia were in for a big sleep so Xander and Daddy did some shopping. The initial idea was no good as the butcher was shut so we went to Bunnings. There was a Formula Ford car out the front and a speed boat which was a hit. We bought a new shower head. Amelia is going through a wake up a lot during the night stage, which is a bit tiring.

Boys didnt get much of a snooze during the day so they were a bit grumpy last night. Woke up this morning and watched Dr Doolittle 3 and the boys helped daddy put the washing away. Then up and off to 'boys club" with Jack and Mitchell. photos later.

2 Augusat 2006

Xander's Word Skills ~ In the car on the way home from school, after finding out Daddy was on an afternoon shift, "I said to Emily, ' I hope my daddy will be at home when we get there'. "

Marshall's new word ~ 'doing?' as in, "What are you doing?", asked every 2 minutes!!!

Amelia's milestone ~ first taste of apple! It was mixed in with her rice cereal and she thought it was fab!

Mum sick

Dette has got her bad tonsilitis back and the boys have been running wild. Xander and Marshall were good though eating all their chicken and rice for tea. Marshall is a lot better and back to his best. We all sang the skidamarink song for breakfast this morning to wake mummy up.