.

Wordless Wednesday - Snacktime.

2011-07-06T09:22:00.003+10:00

More Wordless Wednseday over here on Sarahs blog.

In the city....

2011-06-27T14:22:00.003+10:00

The past few weeks have seen me hanging out in the City quite a bit. I forgot how much I love the buzz of the city...And Melbourne is so pretty and there is always something happening.
Heres a few shots I took whilst working at Fed Square, and wandering around our beautiful town...

Graffiti Kid.

2011-06-22T18:43:00.004+10:00

My boy loves graffiti. He is 13. Lucky for him, his Uncle is the man who created the Light Hearts Pyramid at Federation Square. Lucky for him, his Uncle offered up some space for him to paint. I think he's done an impressive job for a 13 year old......What do you think ??

This lady made him stop and pose! Hilarious!

ANd this piece is still unfinished by the talented Josh Waretini.I promise to get a shot of the finished piece....Come on Josh - you can do it!!

Wordless Wednesday...a quiet moment.

2011-06-22T14:53:00.001+10:00

To see more or join in on Wordless Wednesday, please visit Faith,Hope and a Whole Lotta Love.

Light Hearts...week 3.

2011-06-21T18:18:00.000+10:00

Words can not do it justice....so let's look instead ...week 3 of the Light Hearts pyramid...

Lanterns....

The pyramid sparkling on Saturday night.....

It has been so much fun to be a part of this experience. So many talented people, including Grandmothers,teachers,children,CEO's,teenagers,toddlers,corporates,artists,yarn bombers,crocheters,graffiti artists,and mental health workers have contributed to a great project.1 week to go.....

Light Hearts lantern making...week 2

2011-06-15T12:22:00.009+10:00

The pyramid is looking more and more interesting and beautiful as the weeks are going by. It's busy,the community is getting involved,there are lanterns of all shapes and sizes and I am feeling rather blessed to be a part of it all.
Here's some photos from last Saturday....

Colourful "ovoo" poles

Fred Kroh - official photographer.

Bruce Ramus - the man behind the pyramid. His vision is clear and kind.

These screens are displayed around the pyramid and explain the meaning of the Light Hearts pyramid.

The main Fed Square screen...

My boy was lucky enough to be given an area to graffiti...photos of the complete piece to come!

Jordan's stencil. What a clever 13 year old I have...

Crocheted lanterns...

It was International Knit in public day last Saturday. There were literally hundreds of people sitting around the pyramid knitting and crocheting. It was awesome....and its always the ones you would least expect....

My sweet daughter making yet another lantern...

Fabric lanterns. Special shout out to the Ink and Spindle girls who kindly donated a heap of their "unwanted" tea towels....I love that there is a bit of Ink and Spindle floating around the pyramid. Also thankyou to gorgeous Dana for donating a heap of her old stash to the cause...mwah mwah. xx

The laminators are getting a good workout...

Busy little hands making their lanterns...

The LOVE sign...I made that one.That's all we need...

Graff it up on Wordless Wednesday.

2011-06-15T11:56:00.004+10:00

Many years ago,this young man spent many many hours silk painting with me and his Mum. Look at him now.(Man I feel old) His work is amazing. Unfortunately I didnt get a photo of the finished piece because I had to leave.Will be sure to get a photo of it this Saturday.
Thats my Wordless Wednesday for the week. To play along, go and visit Sarah
Happy Wednesday.

Light Hearts Lantern making...Week 1

2011-06-15T10:39:00.009+10:00

I am a little behind on my Fed Square updates....been so busy.so busy. so busy.

The lantern making workshops have been a HUGE success. Free activities often are...but we didn't expect such a positive reaction.
We were well under staffed the 1st week. Just me and Kass assembling over 250 lanterns in six hours. We didn't stop for a toilet break, lunch,a drink,nada...nuthin! (Thanks so much for your help Kass - you were awesome!)
We were exhausted after 6 hours of non stop action, but I was thrilled with the response.

Here are some photos from the day....

Kass and other important forces in pyramid building!!

Lanterns in the daylight...

The "Light Hearts" Pyramid in the evening.

Dusk...

One of about 30 lanterns made by my super creative daughter!

Lanterns at dusk....

And some yarnbombing....

Week 2 update on its way....

The Kennedys

2011-06-08T16:21:00.005+10:00

Anyone else watching The Kennedy's at the moment?
I am loving it ...and really feeling for the Kennedy women who definately had their share of trauma and bastard men.
John was an amazing man but geez I wish he'd kept his dick in his pants so I could love him all the more.
Actually , its Bobby that has won my heart. What a guy he was.
Heres a few gorgeous images of the real clan....1 more episode to go...
I love you Jacqui.What a woman you were.

All images from Pinterest and Google

Light Hearts Pyramid...Day 1....

2011-06-03T13:58:00.012+10:00

The Light Hearts pyramid opened to the public last night.
It was a gorgeous, blue skied day.We were surrounded by creative,positive people, and we got busy starting the ovoo inspired part of the pyramid.It is far from finished and will be interesting to see what happens now that it is open to the public to add their creativity throughout the month of June.
these are my photos of Day 1.....

the top of the pyramid....

the bare bones of scaffolding...and the beginnings of some creativity...

Lovely Victoria...(Craft Consortium) did an awesome job working on the piece. Thanks so much Vic. xox

Our "rigger" Adam...he did everything I asked him too.ANd with a smile. I like that.

Sweet Kasey came in and gave a hand too on her only day off this week. Thanks Kasey - you are a superstar. xxx

Our rainbow poles that run down the outside of the pyramid...more of these are still being made by moi, and a bit of "let ther be light" yarn bombing. Im not sure who made this one - there are a group of knitters involved...

More yarn....

How amazing is that crocheted Lampshade...created by Bali...not sure of her link at this stage.It will look awesome once it has been hung.

So they are the raw beginnings....I cant wait to watch this evolve over the next few weeks, as people visit and leave their mark.

The first lantern workshop starts tomorrow. Time for the little people of Melbourne to get creative and colour in our lantern designs.And don't forget this is FREE!!

Finally, here are a few photos of the structure at night. These photos were taken by the fabulous Melbourne photographer, Fred Kroh.

I feel so blessed to be part of such a great piece of community art.
I will post more photos after tomorrow when I can show you some of the lanterns....xox
Have a great weekend.

Wordless Wednesday....cousins.

2011-06-01T15:27:00.004+10:00

A bit of cuzzy love on this gorgeous 1st day of Winter in Melbourne.Not the clearest photos as they were taken through a window - but I love the playfullness of the 13 year old and his 6 year old cousin.
I've been missing in action for a few weeks and Ive missed playing.
Play along over here. Thanks Sarah. xox

Light Hearts

2011-05-26T13:49:00.005+10:00

Last year I was involved in the "light In WInter" festival at Federation Square. This year I am again involved. They are once again using my illustrations on the Lampshades that children will be colouring in.Insert smile here.
These lampshades will be attached to the "Light Hearts" installation, created by Bruce Ramus.This structure will be 4 stories high, yarn-bombed,turned into an OVOO,and decorated over the month long installation with lanterns.The Light Hearts structure is expected to hold around 3000 lanterns. It is sure to be spectacular by the end of the festival.If you would like to make a lantern or for your child to make one, the lantern making days are each Saturday in June. For more information,have a look at the Federation Square website.For more info on the "Light Hearts" Installation, see here.
To see some images from last years festival, see here....

I have also helped out in creating an OVOO. I didn't have any idea what it was either - but it is basically a Mongolian prayer ritual whereby you tie a piece of fabric on the frame, and make a wish/say a prayer. Have a peek over here to learn more about Ovoos.

I will be at the lantern making workshop every Saturday in June (except Sat 11th) - would love to see you and your kids there. If you don't have kids, come and make a lantern anyway.Or make a wish at the Ovoo.

And be sure to say Hi!

SundaY InspiRation....

2011-05-22T12:55:00.006+10:00

wanting more ink....it's a never ending want.
I have a big henna rainbow on my hip.But thats just not enough anymore!!
here's some lovely ink that has left my heart all a flutter!!
which one do you like best ?
what position grabs you ?
which one can you see me wearing? not that I'd copy someone elses tatt.That would just be wrong!

I love the position of this heart...and the simplicity of the outline.....
Love the colours in this butterfly - and the size.....

This is so simple and SO sweet......

I was a huge John Lennon fan as a teen and have often thought of using his words in a tattoo...how cute is this on her neck ?? I love it....
Peter Pan......need I say more ? so beautiful.....

all images found on my favourite place to be- pinterest

Happy Sunday to you all....xxx

Laugh out Loud. (rude word warning!!)

2011-05-15T14:28:00.009+10:00

Nothing like a bit of Pinterest to keep me entertained. Heres a few funny pins I found recently.

i think we've all been here!!

Can't help but think that a big brother was responsible for this one!!

Peanut butter humour - i love it!

My milkshake brings all the boys to the yard.....

This sums up my post over here perfectly......

I think we all know a few blogs that this could be put with...NOT mentioning any names my friends!!

Happy Sunday all!! All images from Pinterest!

Wordless Wednesday - butterfly love

2011-05-11T09:27:00.003+10:00

Love spotting a butterfly. Lov eit even more when camera is in hands.

Check out more WW over at Sarah's blog. Happy Wednesday xox

Today I'm grateful for....

2011-05-07T13:47:00.006+10:00

The Beibster and the things he does to teenage girls. this was SO sweet to watch....
Playing along for the first time with Maxabella Loves...
Have a great weekend. xox

Beliebe it or not !!

2011-05-05T17:43:00.001+10:00

OK. So let's just start by saying that I have never paid to much attention to Justin Beiber. I knew about him being a youtube sensation and how Usher is his mentor etc etc. But as far as HE went...I always thought he was a bit of a dweeb. A teenage dweeb. Well.....the past few weeks, he has been in my face. And I have to tell you, I quite like the guy.

My guy C does a bit of "rock star" driving on the side for some extra cash. He has driven some interesting people (in my star struck eyes)such as Sting,Tool,Lily Allen,Muse,Bob Dylan and Grace Jones,and it is all pretty boring according to him. But this past week saw the fever hit Melbourne. Two words - Complete insanity. The girls hanging around outside the hotel,screaming when anyone walked through the doors. They were even taking photos of C because he was "in the Beiber circle".Ridiculous.

When he got the call to say he would be driving the Beibster, he told a few people and the word spread like wildfire. He was getting texts,phone calls, requests for tickets,for autographs and photos. None of which he could deliver.Because he isn't Justin Beiber. He's just C the driver. But as he said to me "What kind of Dad would I be if I got that close to Justin and didn't get my little girl a ticket!" So that's what he did.

About 5.30 on Tuesday evening, I got the call. Very last minute,I grabbed my 3 cherubs and raced into Rod Laver Arena to see the show. We got to our seats (row F on the floor.dead centre..uh huh!! Nice work there C.) Perfect seats. My kids have no idea how rare it is to see a concert so close to the front. Its all down hill for them from now on....

Now a lot of people have been asking my opinion on the concert...so here it is....
He is a talented boy - without a doubt. He sang,he danced,and played acoustic guitar,the piano, and the drums. He sings his heart out and works hard on stage.The show itself is a very well produced concert/machine.His voice is not "amazing" but it doesn't need to be.The choreography is not terribly difficult, but it doesn't need to be.He has the crowd (95% female) in the palm of his hand and he manipulates them like soft putty.There are lots of perfectly timed lines thrown in like "Who want's to be Justin's girlfriend" and "I'd do ANYTHING for my fans.I love you guys SOooo much" and my favourite "There's SO many pretty girls here tonight" .The girls went into a frenzy everytime he spoke,smiled,or looked in their direction. The screams from the crowd were like nothing I have ever experienced.My ears were still ringing yesterday. And seeing young girls crying and having difficulty breathing at the sight of him was rather disturbing.Not to mention the twelve year olds dressed like hookers. All I will say is some parents need a good,hard slap.

I am happy to report that my own 10 year old daughter was as cool as a cucumber.She had a boogey and made love heart shapes with her hands and totally enjoyed herself without the hysterics!! PHEW! I on the other hand was a LITTLE excited. Although I did refrain from screaming or embarrassing my children with too many smooth moves. They are such stiffs!

Anyway,the thing I was most excited about was to be so close to stage with my awesome camera in hand.I thought i was a pap for a moment there. About 2 songs in, my bubble was broke by some security dude who told me my camera was too big.So my dear camera was put back into my bag until the last couple of songs when i sneakily snapped a few shots behind play (so to speak!)

My overall verdict is that it was a great concert for young girls.If I was 12 I would have gone off. My 12 year old son said in all seriousness, "It was good but i think it would have been better if I was a girl." The 13 year old said "it was alright" in typical 13 year old boy fashion.

So to all you Beiber haters out there, I just want you to know that he seems like a very sweet boy living his dream. You can't knock that. We all want to live our dreams. I do however wonder how a 17 year old boy stays grounded in any way when he has such adoration everywhere he goes.That just isn't normal.
I will leave you now with the words of DJ Jay James - "I say Justin.....You say Beiber.....JUSTIN...BEIBER...JUSTIN....BEIBER..."...and so it goes.... ha ha.

the boys...not really giving a damn!

Easter Weekend 2011...

2011-05-05T17:42:00.001+10:00

Happy Easter to all.Always late.That's me!

It was an exhausting but fun weekend full of family,friends,and yeah-predictably,chocolate. There was a lovely lunch/dinner at our fine friends on Good Friday which included a very lord-of-the-flies-rugby-match,a tad too much alcohol,a furry jacket to take you to the heights of rockstar, and some serious laughter.

Saturday was the first family day we have had in months.All 5 of us.Together.All day.With no outside interruptions.The girl child and I got painting on some canvases.The boys got busy making car models. Nerdy I know. But they were into it.So all good.

Sunday was spent with my family at Mt Macedon.As soon as I get there, I feel relaxed. The trees,the birds,the leaves...aaaah!
Instead of buying all the kids eggs, we had a big hunt instead...and this hunt was dubbed the "never ending hunt" as my brother in law continually tormented the kids by tipping out their egg collections....the hunt went for over an hour and was like some bizarre scene out of a comedy film.

It was a great day.

Monday morning we did the dawn service. Beautiful,moving,spiritual. Makes me miss my pa and my Nonno.
Then we ventured off to the Botanical Gardens for a picnic with C's family. It was perfect weather and the gardens are so divine. The grass is almost flourescent....don't know what they are feeding that grass!

There were many birds...

A patchwork quilt...

A spot of twister..

and my favourite 1 year old...Mr Leery.

All in all a happy easter had by all.

Wordless Wednesday - I got the fever.

2011-05-04T21:48:00.003+10:00

Yep.It's sad but it's true. I got the fever baby!! Please don't judge me. It's my daughters fault !
More Worless Wednsdays over this-a-way Join in if you dare.

Wordless Wednesday...the sweet things

2011-04-27T08:23:00.002+10:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter.
Happy Wordless Wednesday to you all.
For more WW, head over to Faith,Hope and a WHole Lotta Love.

Wordless Wednesday..footy fever

2011-04-20T13:52:00.003+10:00

footy is back. i try to be happy about it.i try. but i have a kid who is completely obsessed in AFL. he trains twice a week (or 3 or 4),plays dreamteam,collects footy cards,watches every game,and talks stats till my eyes glaze over.
and don't even get me started on the parents of the team.you know the ones...the highly competitive,my-son's-better-than-yours type....enough to make a sane woman scream. so i take photos.just to distract me from the screaming.and the coach.and the annying parents.and the smell of testosterone.....

More Wordless Wednesdays over here....Thankyou Sarah for hosting. xox

Wordless Wednesday - ten

2011-04-13T22:30:00.003+10:00

‎10 years ago today I held my baby in my arms and couldn't believe she was a SHE! The girl, the pink one, the one who completed US, the sweet sweet heart that melted mine. Happy birthday to my darling JB.I can hardly believe that ten years have rolled by.You make the sun shine. Every.Single.Day....xox

This is her birthday wall that I created for her at 1.30 this morning.Why do these bright ideas always strike at bed time ??

Wordless Wednesday hosted by Sarah from Faith,Hope And A Whole Lotta Love

2011-04-11T13:12:00.002+10:00

this little guy.
what a divine child he is.
xx

Wordless Wednesday..dream.hope.love.believe.

2011-04-06T08:09:00.003+10:00

I love Wordless Wednesday.If you do too, jump over here to join on in.
Thanks Sarah for hosting each week. Lovely lovely lovely.
Have a great day in the (rare) Melbourne sunshine.

love and peace peoples. xox

2011-03-31T22:25:00.007+11:00

All of these images now available in the red bubble shop.Buy them as a card, on a canvas,as a print...WHATever. enjoy your weekend.xox

she dreamed....

2011-03-31T22:12:00.003+11:00

Yes she did. And she never gave up.
Do you have a dream?

The Dynamic Duo

2011-03-30T14:11:00.005+11:00

twins.twinkies.double trouble.Baby A and Baby B.The dynamic Duo....

For more Wordless Wednesday - go visit Faith,Hope And A Whole Lotta Love XOX

Wordless Wednesday....Pop.

2011-03-23T12:43:00.004+11:00

This man was my partners Dad. He was my children's Pop. He was a husband,an uncle,a friend. So many things to so many people. He was complicated.And he was stubborn.He had enormous hands.He had the softest skin. He was the classic Maori chief. He loved seafood. And mangoes. And fishing. And his guitar.I am so relieved for him that he is now out of pain.And at peace.

Sorry,but today I needed some words.And the bottom photo is not mine, but I do love them.
For more Wordless Wednesday, head over to Faith,Hope and a whole Lotta Love.
this stoopid thing wouldn't let me post yesterday for some reason....so sorry Im a day late !!

Keep Calm....

2011-03-21T16:47:00.006+11:00

Don't you just hate it when a good thing catches on so much that you begin to hate it? Well, hate is probably a bit strong...but...
The whole Keep Calm And Carry On thing has been well and truely done. I loved it...but not so much anymore.It is everywhere and ofcourse the copycats have had a field day with it...In saying that,some of these are cute and clever and just plain hilarious... I am posting this.and then Im moving on.
My favourite is "dance like a robot from 1984" ha ha. funny.

All images found on PINTEREST

Wishing I could crochet....

2011-03-18T20:45:00.004+11:00

::all images found on pinterest::

I really should learn to crochet.I sort of learnt when I was a kid, but because I was left handed,it was difficult for others to teach me.My grandmother tried and tried.Just look at all this beauty. Oh Im in love......

Wordless Wednesday...flowers for you.

2011-03-09T10:09:00.002+11:00

I love Wordless Wednesday. I love that I don't have to think of something witty or clever to say.I love that it's quick. And I love checking in on everyone elses photos of the week. If you want to join in on Wordless Wednesday, head over to Sarahs blog.....

wordless wednesday...

2011-03-02T10:19:00.002+11:00

This weeks Wordless Wednesday is a snap from last year that I took of my sweet nephew during bathtime.
For more wordless wednesday,or to join in, please head on over to Faith,Hope and A Whole Lotta Love
Happy mid week y'all.!

Visual feast ...

2011-02-27T22:20:00.010+11:00

smiles
artbrainpickings.org

Oh sweet pinterest. I discovered you not so long ago. But the moment I found you, I just, well, kinda...fell in love.
Images like these are making me dream bigger and bigger.

butterfly.
nezzaye.tumblr.com

Crowned with butterflies and feathers.
idontlikemondays.us

abduzeedo.com

iphone magic.

2011-02-25T07:59:00.004+11:00

who says you need a fancy camera to get an interesting pic.
I love my iphone camera and all my photo apps.Althoguh i have to say the iphone 4 camera is SO much better. But i lost mine. SO Im back to the 3.And still having fun with it. Working on Big C to swap with me. He never even uses the camera. Such a waste.

10.01.11. Blairgowrie magic.

I am 12.

Dad and his girl,on the edge of the Yarra river.

Wordless Wednesday...strange child

2011-02-23T14:55:00.002+11:00

This kid makes me laugh.She's rather odd. But she is mine.

Please check out other Wordless Wednesdays over here. Our host Sarah is very lovely. And very talented.xx

Happy Wednesday.

Wordless Wednesday...a glimmer of summer.

2011-02-16T14:02:00.002+11:00

More wonderful wordless wednesday shots over this-a-way
Thanks Sarah for being such a great wordless wednesday host! xx

Wordless Wednesday....precious.

2011-02-09T14:32:00.005+11:00

Is there anything cuter than baby hands?
Actually - yes.Baby feet.

For more Wordless Wednesday - please visit Faith,Hope and A Whole lotta Love.

Lewis Wickes Hine 1874-1940

2011-02-09T13:18:00.006+11:00

WOW! Call me stupid, but Ive only just discovered this wonderful man named Lewis Wickes Hine. My Aunty (who is also a photographer) sent me through a slide show of his work and I just love the rawness of his images and the way he captured the soul of the individuals he photographed. He was commissioned to document the building of the Empire State Building, and put his own life at risk to get the shots. In order to get the best vantage points, he was swung out in a specially designed basket 1,000 feet above 5th Avenue.None of the men working on the building wore harnesses or any other safety equipment, and some of the images make my stomach turn.Brave men.Unfortunately, I could not find my favourite photo anywhere to upload - it is similar to the first image shown here, except all the men are lying down, resting on each other. It terrifies me.Imagine sleeping on a beam so high up in the sky.....
He also took images of children labourers in an effort to help end the practice of child labour in America.
Hard to believe that these little people were used in this way.Poor little darlings.Childhood was no picnic back then.
Hope you like his work. I am inspired. Once again. xx

Wordless Wednesday ...windy beach

2011-02-02T13:52:00.002+11:00

To join the Wordless Wednesday fun - Visit Faith,Hope and a Whole Lotta Love

Winona forever

2011-01-28T16:00:00.003+11:00

I cannot begin to tell you how happy i was to see Winona Ryder in Black Swan the other night.She is only in it for ten minutes - but she is ofcourse beyond awesome. Winona,I almost forgot how much I love you.I almost forgot you existed.how very sad.

Wordless Wednesday - rainbow love.

2011-01-27T09:00:00.002+11:00

For more Wordless Wednesday shots....please visit Faith,Hope and a Whole Lotta Love.

Australia In flood...

2011-01-19T11:46:00.006+11:00

Our beautiful country is flooding.
After years and years of drought, it seems that dear old Mother Nature has decided to piss on our heads.Quite literally. We are all wishing she would calm the hell down.

After experiencing the worst natural disaster this country has ever seen in its history last week,with over 75% of QLD in flood, now Northern NSW and Victoria are experiencing much of the same.Last Monday Toowoomba, a beautiful small city on the Great Dividing Range was hit with what the media is calling an 'inland tsunami'. The main street of Toowoomba was washed out in little under an hour. Flash flooding pounded through the streets, cars becoming mere driftwood and being sucked under bridges, people left stranded and clinging to poles and trees, local businesses swamped and losing all their stock and equipment in just thirty minutes. There was no warning, no sign that this could ever happen so quickly. Many in Toowoomba were uninsured as no one ever expects a town high up on a mountain range to flood.

The scenes in the rural town of Grantham are the most devastating yet. Stories of dead bodies thrashed about in passing waters, people simply being ripped away from their loved ones as the water tore through houses and businesses.Such devastation has left many never wanting to return to their home town. They are still searching for the missing.Some bodies have been found in areas that have already been searched 2 or 3 times.

Many lives have been lost,thousands of homes destroyed or inundated with water. My heart goes out to every person affected by this tragedy.Just yesterday, an 8 year old boy was swept away in a swollen billabong. His body has now been recovered. So so sad. Us Aussies are tough, and we will recover. Seeing thousands of Queenslanders gather to clean up strangers homes made us all feel so proud to be Australian.

To put it in comparison with other disasters around the world: Aftermath from Hurricane Katrina = 223,000m2 Aftermath from Qld Floods = 1,000,000m2, though the death toll is significantly lower and the Australian Government is really pulling together to clean this up, expecting to take two years to fully recover.

Queensland is pretty much in the process of cleanup although overnight lightning storms saw more damage in Toowoomba as trees fell on top of already damaged homes and cars.
Victoria, however,sees water levels still rising and many small country towns being evacuated. All these people can do is leave their homes and wait.Fifty-eight Victorians town have now been affected, including hard-hit Horsham, Beaufort, Charlton, Echuca and Rochester, with about 1700 properties affected, 22 relief centres in operation, 39 emergency alerts issued and 6000 calls fielded by the State Emergency Service.

Ofcourse we all want to help in anyway we can.People have been very generous with donated goods, but what these towns are in desperate need for is MONEY. Any amount will make a difference. Even if you can only afford a small amount - it is so so needed.
To donate to the QLD flood appeal - visit over her
To donate to the Victorian flood appeal - call the Red Cross on 1800 811 700
or visit here

It is difficult to understand the intensity of these floods.Some of the footage we have seen on our screens in the past week are absolutely heart breaking but none of us can really comprehend what these poor souls have lost...

Roads pulled up by the sheer force of the water.

Cars piled up like matchbox toys.

This beautiful 13 year old boy,Jordan Rice was trapped ontop of his car with his mother and younger brother. Although he couldn't swim and was terrified of water, he told rescuers to take his brother first.Seconds after they saved his brother, Jordan and his mum were washed away to their deaths. They are being buried today.

Restaurants on the Brisbane river, such as this one, were ripped clean from their moorings. This one was crushed seconds after this photo was taken,when it hit the bridge.

Desperate horses trying to find higher ground.

Wordless Wednesday....pretty stuff.

2011-01-19T11:17:00.005+11:00

I am a slacker with my blog. Maybe Wordless Wednesday will keep me on track...

Wordless Wednesday brought to you by the fabulous Faith,Hope and A Whole Lotta Love.

waiting....

2010-11-29T00:03:00.007+11:00

i dream of slow,lazy days.
for salty,warm skin..
swimming.and reading.and eating.and dreaming.

and planning the next adventure.

i long for wet bathers and warm winds.
for morning dips and evening strolls.

for a glass of wine on the balcony.
and days with my three.

collecting shells with my girl.
watching films with my boys.
time with myself.
days to create.
giving and recieving.
feeling blessed.

ho ho ho.
bring on the holidays....bring on summer.
thankyou Melbourne.now would be good.

20 years ago.

2010-11-27T08:59:00.003+11:00

When I finished high school, I entered a 3 year drama course. Everyday for 3 years I was challenged, terrified,tested,pushed,criticised and had the time of my life.We played for 3 years.Like children. It was the loveliest time.

I met amazing people from totally different worlds, and to this day , I smile everytime I think of those years.

Today I am having our 20 year reunion at our house due to the shite weather.
I am beyond excited.

To see my old pals again, who helped shape the person i am today. I just cannot wait. Each of them so unique in their personalities,their beliefs and their life paths.

I have scanned all my uni photos, and plastered them all over our walls...memories are flooding in....bring on 2pm...xx

1992.

The First.

2010-11-22T22:25:00.013+11:00

So much fun. Such sweet boys. Here's a few faves from my very first grown up photo shoot.
These little boys have the energy of ten little boys. They are go go go, and hilarious whilst they're at it.Each has their own little personality,each special in their own way. Thankyou Annie, for letting your little guys be the first...

How gorgeous are they ....

Oh, and on a plugging note, my photo was selected on Saturday to be a part of a collage on the Red Bubble homepage...one 3 in every thousand photos are chosen apparently - so I'm feeling rather hap hap happy about that one!
If you would like to see the photo, click on here...my photo is called "skate boy skate"...

snappys....

2010-11-16T16:45:00.002+11:00

A few snaps of my gys at the beach in the freezing September winds....stoopid i believe.but they seem to enjoy it.

september.october.....

2010-11-06T00:35:00.007+11:00

september ... lucky i take photos...because i cant remember what i did yesterday...
heres a taste of september.

i have a new job. i am surrounded in sweetness all day long. love.

dreaming of the travel....

my girl.

all we need.

October...
over already...the year is speeding by.

little girls in big girls shoes.

ziggy. beautiful boy.

learning to bounce....

birthday boy

my big gig..taking photos for The Warrick Foundation's Gala. scary but fun.

13.

who ? me?

Painting at the gallery at Fed Square..sorry didnt look at who painted it.oops.but i do love it.

my halloween babes. trick or treating gets bigger and better every year.

that is all for now... xx

dreaming and playing and absorbing the red bubble.

2010-08-12T11:41:00.003+10:00

i had a tooth pulled the other day. it hurts a lot.
but whilst lying around in my big ol' bed,i got to thinking about my life and my dreams.nothing too heavy.just a bit of self analysis...i have always had a little dream of being a photographer.i have always taken photos.and it is something i love.i love the capturing of moments.i am self taught.i am nothing amazing.but i learn everytime i pick up my camera.and its fun.
this year,more than ever, i have felt more of a desire to take photos .
i keep telling myself i have enough on my plate with my family, totally innocent and Yarraville Markets...which is true.but a girl can dream.
i also stumbled upon a website called red bubble. i'd heard of it before and have two friends who are on there,which is why i visited in the first place.
i love red bubble. there is so much talent on that site.it is insane.photographers,illustrators,designers.all the things i want to be.and it is free to add your designs.it is so clever.and so pretty.and you can purchase others art on canvases or cards or clothing ! so good.
i have started to put some of my photos on....i was nervous...
i discovered last night that one of my photos (skate boy skate) was featured on their front page wow.first day!
i am so excited.the other photos on the page are so amazing.i feel like a very small fish.but a happy fish.
take a peek.blush.
xx

Newby made it seller...thats me.

2010-07-15T19:28:00.005+10:00

been rather busy posting items on my new made it store.if you havent shopped on made it then you really havent shopped.get over there and support the amazing handmade community in Australia. there are some awesome designers on there. also been a bit busy designing and making our newest range of cards which are stitched using original vintage storybooks.they are super sweet. i am in love with so many of them.and totally innocent offers FREE postage all over Australia for our cards.we like to spread the love.

and these are our new mattboard designs using the vintage storybooks...not yet in the store...but available at the market
just pop it in a frame and away you go. XX

stuff

2010-06-22T23:43:00.004+10:00

heres a little of my life in the last few weeks.in photos.
theres been some home improvement.

and sleeping on friends couches.

nieces.

and nephews.

the forest of light at federation square.

>

check it out over here

Had a stall at the Sugar and Spice CHildrens market on the weekend and The Modish Creators Market too.

thats me.in a nutshell. over and out.

Forest of Light.

2010-06-03T00:13:00.003+10:00

Federation Square celebrate a 'Light in Winter' festival each year.This years festival kicks off on the 4th June.... This is what they have to say about it all.....

Join us at Fed Square on Friday 4 June as we celebrate the launch of The Light in Winter and the world premiere of Rafael Lozano-Hemmer's new work, Solar Equation. Enjoy live entertainment from 5.30pm, with official proceedings kicking off at 6.00pm.

From large-scale light installations, projections and torch-led tours to Indigenous storytelling and Sudanese hip-hop, The Light in Winter celebrates the warmth of our community and shared cultural experiences.

Directed by Robyn Archer, this free, month-long program will also feature a new, specially commissioned work, Solar Equarion by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer - one of the world's greatest installation artists.
Now the reason I tell you about this festival is because it will be awesome and educational and eco friendly. And its free. And there will be heaps of fun activities.Activities for kids.Which leads me to the Forest of Light...a little project that I proudly had a hand in.

The Forest of Light is a growing installation that will be made by the children of Melbourne.They can choose from 10 different designs (designed and illustrated by moi!), and then colour their lamp in, light it up and place it amongst the other lanterns to form the 'forest'. Kids can then pick up their light shade at the end of the festival and take it home.

I was pretty stoked to be asked to design and illustrate the ten designs that the kids can choose from. Be sure to bring your kidlets down to Fed square (The Atrium) on Sunday the 13th June.Between 12pm amd 4 pm.....

a photo a day. in May. day 8,9 and 10

2010-05-25T16:12:00.003+10:00

day 8

day 9

day 10

a photo a day.in may 5, 6 and 7

2010-05-18T22:57:00.001+10:00

day 5

day 6

day 7

a photo a day .in may 4

2010-05-18T22:55:00.001+10:00

a photo a day. in may 3.

2010-05-13T23:22:00.002+10:00

i went to camp this week. it was an experience. very cold. very fun. i took this photo. i like it.

a photo a day.in may 2

2010-05-10T23:40:00.003+10:00

i didnt take this photo. but i love it. and Im so sorry to whoever the artist may be, but I cannot remember where I found it. Let me know if you know !

a photo a day.in May.

2010-05-09T23:39:00.005+10:00

in august last year I joined in on "a photo a day in August".post a photo a day all through August.easy.kind of. I found this over at The Byron Life. it was great. i took more photos.i posted more often.i looked at other photos by other great photographers.i got a lot out of it. so Im going to do it again.feel free to join in, and let me know so i can see your snaps.

anzac day 2010.RSL.6 am-ish.jack.vietnam vet.

what do you dream of?

2010-05-09T23:19:00.004+10:00

i dream of....

italian gelati.in venice.
walking in a field full of yellow flowers.
taking photos.and being paid for it.
finding a good book to read.
i dream of a bigger house.
big bunches of shiny balloons.
more babies (just a dream)
learning to use an overlocker.
a new sewing machine.
(i think mine is dyeing).
going to school.to learn.
i dream oflong lazy days on the beach.
swimming.
floating.
thinking.
dreaming.
a weekend away with my best girls.
and time with my most favourite guy.
i dream of peace and calm.
of days spent gazing in bookshops.
and sipping fresh juice.
discovering far away worlds.
i dream i dream i dream.

the week that was...

2010-05-09T22:26:00.009+10:00

it was a beautiful week of celebration and love in our family this week. with a few tantrums thrown in for good measure. (child and adult)
But that's normal.Isn't it ??

We had a new baby. a 40th birthday. a visit from interstate rellys. and mothers day. its all about the family. these are my favourite shots of the week. enjow!

Oh, and to all you amazing mothers out there who are working.loving.nurturing. you are doing the most important job in the world.hope you enjoyed your day of glory. and took a moment to think about who you are.and who you want to become..lets blow our own horns i say. i am a happy lady. gorgeous bracelet.sleep in. love letters from the three. a bedroom door. time with my kids.eating chocolate ganache until i want to vomit.a bath.with candles.all good. xx

my mothers day present to myself. love.

our little boy getting cosy.

the fresh member of the family.love.love.love.

the 40 year old.and new daddy.bless.

big cousin.checking out baby cousin.

my rock. given to me by my J boy.Hes a sweet heart.he went hiking with another family and bought me back this rock. love.love.

big girl cousin.first hold.precious.

New life.

2010-05-07T21:08:00.000+10:00

my gorgeous new nephew. Leroy Te Awa. What a beautiful addition to our family. Welcome little man xxx

nine.

2010-04-23T23:58:00.005+10:00

her ninth birthday began 2 days before with "high tea" at her nannee's house.
And ended 6 days later with an "olympic party" and sleepover.
Games played - egg and spoon races,the balloon game (each kid has a balloon tied to their leg and the aim of the game is to not let your balloon get popped.last one standing wins. very fun),
treasure hunt for gold medals,pass the parcel with lots of medals and freddos inside. They were put into teams and won medals after each game.
food eaten - the usual party crap.
cake - hhhhm,interesting. was meant to be an olympic podium but my icing was a disaster and it was...shall we say...not my finest cake decorating.
presents - wii just dance.I LIKE. 5 chapter books.perfect.loves to read.beados.2 of those STOOOOOPID beanie kids.what a waste of space they are.shhh.clothes.boots.pjs.a crochet rug.and unfinished curtains for her room.half made by me. will finish.will finish.
sleepover - 3 special friends stayed the night.they giggled and played with presents and looked so sweet in their jarmies. she had a ball.

she also got her ears pierced.i always said she had to be ten. but couldnt take another year of the pleading and begging.good parenting hey ?

happy birthday my sweet girl.enjoy nine.
you are a ray of sunshine in my world.im proud to be your mum. xx

easter 2010

2010-04-05T15:37:00.005+10:00

the best chocky.yes please.

break it down boy.

graffiti in Fitzroy.

Obama. he's a watchin'.

2 days of peace and alone time (sewing time), Yarraville Markets, hanging with the family,sleeping in,eating chocolate for breakfast,and wandering the streets of Fitzroy aimlessly. Lovely weekend. Hope your Easter was special.

snapshots of 38.

2010-03-24T23:34:00.016+11:00

38.creeping up there.
highlights include.
20 x7 year olds singing happy birthday to me whilst doing sign language.
receiving 20 handmade adorable cards from the very same little 7 year olds.bless.
receiving a g string from my daughter ? i found it odd too.but she loved it.should i worry?
being taken on a shopping spree with my boyfriend.i met him when i was 20.i thought he was so much older at 26.he still makes me laugh.he still makes me believe.
beautiful black boots.
speaking to my Sydney friend Hali good vibes.not long enough.but it made me smile.
speaking to my pregnant sister in law, Angelic One, who shares my birthday.she is 2 years younger.and she likes to gloat about it.
dinner at my mummas - she went to much trouble.and cooked up a feast including an incredible choc fudge cake.nice wine.adorable nieces and nephews.
my uncle visiting from QLD.cool clock from my sister.messages on the face. beautiful presents.oh so blessed.
the only thing missing for me was this guy...

he's on camp.i miss him. i miss his constant chat.i miss his gentle demeanour.home tomorrow.then i will be complete again.
and then holidays.and then i can breathe for 2 weeks.oh how i love to breathe.

the hills aint so alive....

2010-02-24T16:14:00.000+11:00

this is what happens when 3 children spend a good 8 to 10 years swinging on the hills hoist..

it was a slow death, but a death none the less..what a sad day.i loved that clothesline.still, i would not take back any of that crazy swinging,hanging,climbing.tieing,dragging and spinning.not for a million dollars.well ok...yes.you got me. i would do just about ANYTHING for a million dollars.including sleeping with wrinkly old robert redford.... anyways....farewell mr hoist.zanks for ze memories.

Interview at TIges And Weince

2010-02-14T16:40:00.003+11:00

The lovely Kylie from Tiges and Weince has a regular weekly interview with different designers.She says it inspires her.I like her thinking.She very kindly asked little ol moi to do an interview for her. I happily said YES please!
I feel like a bit of a wanker really...but it was fun.I just hope I didnt ramble on too much ..If you get bored I do apologise.Once i get on a roll.......To take a peek of the interview and find out a little more about totally innocent, head on over here.

Thanks Kylie for the opportunity.You are very nice. x

good press

2010-02-11T17:58:00.001+11:00

i recieved a text the other night that read - "great advertising for totally innocent.channel 7.hope you are watching."
i bowled over a couple of kids on my frenzied leap to the television that has 4 remotes that are no where to be seen whenever i need them.alas, by the time i hit the right buttons there was an ad on and it seemed that i had missed my big moment.....but that very same friend who informed me of my moment was also good enough to take some photos of the tv to prove to me that my product got a bit of air time.

so thankyou Krishna (or was that Trishna?) for loving my card so much and playing with it for so long that all the good folk could see my work and thankyou my friend starsha for being so observant and quick with the camera.i know some people will roll their eyes at this and say "big deal" but i am really quite excited to have had a bit of prime time exposure..ive never had any free press....now ...just waiting for those orders to roll in. ha!

the skate park.

2010-02-06T15:48:00.005+11:00

we spend a fair amount of time at skate parks.
i like to look at the shoes.
some of the tricks arent bad either.
but really its all about the shoes.

fiji.christmas.and stuff.

2010-02-06T14:43:00.007+11:00

yeah you know the saying...time flies when your having fun.well thats me. im just a flyin fun kind of gal...and so months go by and this here little blog sits all alone and wonders if i will ever return.its no wonder i only have 8 followers.ha ha.
so the last few months have included -

:: crazy december - lots of markets were attended.some good.most bad.apparently its the economic climate. blah blah blah.

::the big boy "graduated" primary school.seriously,where did that little guy go ?? how cute was he.

::christmas day - always a fave.and this year (or was that last year?) didnt disappoint.happy days.

::new years resolutions include - giving up some of the evil stuff i put in my body.
slowing down a tad and breathing.breathing always helps.reading more.exercising more.loving more.blogging more.taking more photos.doing less markets.doing less manic stuff.cooking 2 new meals every week.so far so good.speak to me in 3 months.....

::january began with a dreamy trip to fiji.the way the world should be.

what can i say.love that place.love those people.would love to go over there and start up some kind of cool backpackers place where the fijians actually get paid a fair and decent wage.
grrrrrrrrr.fat,rich,greedy pigs annoy me.

highlights-1. the night of my dads 70th birthday.we had a private dinner on the lawn which included lobster and moet and other nice things.very noice indeed.
there was dancing.and singing.
and i think most people knew who we were by the end of the night.hhhhm.
my dad is gorgeous,very generous and he had a ball with his family by his side.

dad and his babies.after a few bevvies.

2. we were invited to a real fijian village for dinner.amazing.lovely.reality bites.good for the children to see how the other half lives.and how happy they are about it.incredibly generous and spirited people.

:: my Star turned 11 while we were away.what a darling boy he is.what a way to celebrate 11.

:: the big guy has started high school.although i had a day of feeling sad and thinking it was all about me,i mostly feel excited for him about this great new bold adventure of travelling on trains,meeting people from all over,and slipping into a new,more independent world.he is so ready and flying so far !!

::this year i plan to watch the empire (pah ha ha) grow.dream more.stress less.say no occasionally.be kind.get out in the garden.and actually garden.learn more sewing tricks.make the yarraville market even more gorgeous.visit friends.and drink wine.bye for now.love yous all.all 8 of you.

::oh.on a creative side, this is the album i made for my darling daddy.an assortment of my favourite photos of our mad family.the good.the bad.and the ugly.thats us.he loves that shit !

Nickelodeon Kids Choice.2009

2009-11-25T01:09:00.005+11:00

ok.the 3 little pigs are lucky.
they have an ace uncle who oozes cool.
they all adore him.
he is a singer and knows lots of people.
and its not what you know peoples.apparently.
so off they went to the nickelodeon kids choice awards with their free tickets.
all they really cared about was the slime.
but what they came home with was a-whole-nother experience.
they found themselves standing in the VIP area.
with their vip lanyards and awesome giftbags.
they hung out backstage and met some dudes.
and then they watched the show.
the burping contest was bitchin.
the highlight for the boys was meeting these guys.

the highlight for the chicky was meeting some girl and guy from Neighbours.
funny.
happy little beans.for days.and days.

one of my boys has had a crush on Delta for sometime.

a night they will never forget.
i promise i wont bore you with anymore posts about my cherubs for a while. x
but this was pretty exciting you gotta admit!!

Oh Darling Blog.

2009-11-24T16:16:00.004+11:00

Oh Darling Blog.
i apologise for the terrible neglect.
there is just lots and lots of stuff going on.
I am the market whore.Working extra days.Organising the December Christmas Market.
Working on a commission (i love saying that!) Making stuff for the ten markets I am doing in December.
short quick posts.
thats the key.
this is the gang at Halloween.
my cherubs.all dressed up.lookin fine.scored some lollies.scared some dudes.all good.

iphone photos.sorry.

oh.I also cleaned up my blog today.bit of a spring clean.oh yes.i added some friends into my bloggy list too.i have some ace blog friends.check them out.

New Moon tonight....oooooh! must make the most of the time whilst the little girl is on camp.Cant wait.

The Quilt Project

2009-10-25T01:23:00.007+11:00

i am feeling excited.proud.emotional
and its all because of this lady.
her name is Kirsty.she has a blog called kootoyoo.
and she has spectacular ideas.
recently she came up with the concept "the quilt project"
There were 66 artists involved.
each designed a square.they are all beautiful.
kirsty has turned the whole project into an online exhibiton.
the project is amazing.
thats all i can say without gushing.
do yourself a huge favour and head over here for a looky.
when i signed up for this i had no idea what an amazing experience it would be.
i feel part of a community.and i am very grateful to kirsty for being so clever !
i am going to bed now to dream of the red quilt.
heres a couple of pics of the amazing work....

a life so peachy
golly gosh

Jessica
Sydney, Australia

Curlypops
ferris wheel

Cam
Melbourne, Australia

Kootoyoo
running shoe

Kirsty
Melbourne, Australia

and my litlle ol square.mr elephant.well bits of it anyway.for a full view - head to the quilt project blog.

Is it September??

2009-09-21T16:28:00.008+10:00

this is where ive been.and what ive been up to.in the past 2 weeks.

::our schools annual art show.wow.gets bigger and better every year.i love our school.please excuse the crapola iphone photos.

::watching 500 days of summer with the fabulous 'stars hollow' chicks.great movie.and we got showbags!!
::having deep and meaningfuls with my big brother.he has my back.
::visiting family in mt macedon.beautiful place.always makes me chill.

::finishing my red piece for Kirstys project.

::meeting the mumsbiz crew.planning and scheming and brainstorming our fortunes.very exciting.
::watching dirty dancing in honour of the gorgeous patrick swayze.tears were shed.too young.
i watched the outsiders recently and it all came back to me.so many gorgeous boys in one movie.

::drawing.drawing.drawing.

::designing 1st birthday invites for my Jack Jack.

::applying for markets.
::Sewing cot quilts in preparation for the above.
::listening to my big boy explain to his sister how to share profiles on itunes.she had no idea but he was so patient and sweet.moments like those make me think i must be doing something right.
::today we are getting creative.me and my gang.mosaics,painting,graffiti work.although the weather may halt our progress.

yarraville markets.

2009-09-11T22:09:00.005+10:00

did you know i am the organiser/crazy chick/manager/woman who runs the Yarraville Markets?
what started as a one off event last christmas has turned into a once a month extravaganza.
the first few months were a stress.oh yes i was scared.
and i still get scared every single month that no one will turn up.
that stallholders will pull out on the day and the hall will be empty.
that my face painter will catch pneumonia in the cold.
that a stallholder will have a hissy fit because their stall isnt in the right place.
(did i mention my need to be liked?)
yarraville markets takes up a lot of my time.too much time.
totally innocent suffers.and probably my kids too.
but the thing is i am meeting the most amazing people.
people who create.people who smile.
people who have passion.and drive.
people who are on the same wavelength.
when i tell my friends from 'the real world' about a new quilt design or product idea,i see eyes glaze over.
but not these creative beans.they love it.
women who have very little time but still manage to make beautiful things because their heart tells them too.
women who i can talk fabric with.
women who i can tell all my crazy ideas too who say "YES DO IT!"
women who have their own crazy ideas.
these stallholders have become my friends.
they are creative and funny,caring and dynamic.
they were understanding when i had no idea what i was doing.
they were patient when we had quiet days.
they are the reason that YM is growing and growing.
they are as excited as i am when i tell them that we have a write up in the local papers or a full page spread in a magazine.
this makes me feel quite humbled.
and makes all the organising,late nights and zillions of emails worthwhile.
so thankyou to my new friends.
and see you next month.
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY! wow.told you we were growing.

Dana from twiglet.

kat from id tee

Helen from Miss Ruby May

Justine from embellish'd

kelly from b4w skincare

melinda and sarah from loopy love.

anna from lana e ferri

susannah tucker

if you would like to see more of these gorgeous chicks - go to the market blog for all their links!

day? a photo a day ......what ive been up too.

2009-08-30T11:58:00.006+10:00

i have been designing.sewing.drawing.
visiting markets,organising markets and doing markets!
making super cute bubba books to hopefully sell!
catching up with very old friends.
primary school reunion.WOW!(more on that to come)
watching field of dreams.late into the night.gorgeous film.
needing to grocery shop.urgently.
happily relaxing in pjs on a sunday.did i mention football is over?
facebooking.blogging.printing.will get to the tweet.maybe.
getting organised for next weeks market
cooking jamie olivers yummy chicken korma.it got the thumbs up.
will also pick up some dog poo today.lucky me.
also planning on making my garden a little prettier.
i love weekends.
hope you are loving yours too.

found this the other day.
in the zone.totally.isnt he divine?

lovely.

2009-08-26T19:32:00.003+10:00

cant wait for summer.
our heater has died.
and im really not coping.
bring on the heat i say.
bring it on.

head over here for more a photo a day in august....

bits and pieces.and day 15 (i think)

2009-08-25T17:08:00.006+10:00

miss pip over at meet me at mikes posted this the other day.sometimes its good to stop and think.

Making : baby books.
Cooking : roast lamb.
Drinking :a glass of wine.any minute now.
Reading: blogs.
Wanting: life to be a bit slower.
Looking:at beautiful photos on a photo a day
Playing:bejewelled.
Wasting:my food scraps.i need worms.
Sewing:cot quilts and something red.
Wishing:for some new clothes.and shoes.
Enjoying:the blue sky.
Waiting:for summer.
Liking:dexter.very much.
Wondering:whatever happened to scott baiou (?) he was yummy.
Loving:J's new nikes
Hoping:to be a photographer one day.
Marvelling:at my daughter and her questions..'mum,how many A's in calamari?'
Needing:vitamins.
Smelling:roast lamb.
Wearing:Cs big jumper.ugg boots.
Following:lead and others will follow.
Noticing:wrinkles.
Knowing: that i am way behind on my photo a day.
Thinking:about my friend who just passed.
Feeling:proud of my little guy who came runner up at his best and fairest.
Bookmarking:nothing.
Opening:emails.always emails.
Giggling:not enough.
Feeling:chilled.
Listening:to the rain.

2009-08-20T23:04:00.001+10:00

my boys.
a few years ago.
time flies......

:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::

2009-08-18T22:59:00.012+10:00

gone.
to a better place.
drinking gin and tonics in the sky.
thankyou for the vegie meal jill.
and teaching me about strength.
you were one of the good ones.
xx

i wrote this post last week.
i was feeling low.
life was getting the better of me.
but i AM ok.
just so you know.
i wasnt going to post this.
i thought it was too heavy.
i have many posts that are unposted!
but then i read a post about posting.
a post about whether you show your 'true' self on your blog.
or a watered down,sugary sweet version.
and decided that its ok to not be all sunshine and lollypops ALL the time.
im going to show the ugly bits too.
sometimes.
my friends say i am an open book.
so here goes.....read on....

im struggling.
i feel like i am failing sometimes.
failing at life.
i work so hard.
i work late into the night.most nights.
but im not breaking through.
im not where i wanted to be at this age.
and im tired.
am i having a midlife crisis? ? ? ? ?
I dont mean to get all dark and depressing on this normally-cheery-blog
BUT i am overwhelmed.
i feel like there are so many unfinished tasks.
too many friends that i miss but never see.
a mother and father who are growing older by the day.
a neglected extended family.
so much work to do on on our house that i dont know where to begin.
endless cleaning to be done.
and cupboards that are overflowing.
so many films i would like to watch.
so many books i would like to read.
so many emails that need to be answered.
running yarraville markets.
running totally innocent.making.selling.marketing.
running my family.
im overwhelmed by how hectic and chaotic my life is.
i dont have time to sit and mourn my friends death because i need to make a salad.cook corn.bake potatoes.chase money.help two boys with their science projects that are due tomorrow.deal with one childs friend issues.talk to him about the importance of finding friends that make you feel good.not bad.listen to a little girl read.
you may be thinking that i have a slack husband who doesnt help me.wrong.i dont have a husband.i have C.and he is ace.we both go flat out.and care for our children.but we just dont seem to be keeping up.
if i dont stay ahead,if i dont keep at it, i feel like my whole world would come tumbling down on top of me.
heavy. heavy indeed.
sorry to be such a bummer.
probably not the kind of thing you want to read on a blog.
but sometimes you just feel blah.hey.
am i alone here ??

day 14....

2009-08-18T11:11:00.002+10:00

pretty dresses at a pretty wedding.
for more photo a day in august...head over here...

day 13....winners are grinners.

2009-08-17T12:14:00.009+10:00

my little boy played in his first football grand final yesterday.
now i grew up watching AFL football.i had no choice.and i did love it.
but to be honest,i wasnt that keen about the commitment we had to make earlier in the year.
i had managed to avoid the football for the last couple of years...leaving it all in the very capable hands of C.
but this year,with C taking on a coaching role,i had no choice but to participate.
i found the football club cold.awkward.a mans world.
but as i cannot sit still for more then a moment or two,i found myself volunteering to help out.
watergirl.team photographer.
i have to admit it...i actually enjoyed myself.
i enjoyed the people.i made some new friends.
i enjoyed watching my little guy do amazing things with an odd shaped ball.
i enjoyed watching his team and the mate ship that was formed.
i enjoyed seeing them go undefeated all year.
they had it in the bag.
they were undefeated.
but we awoke yesterday morning to some fierce weather.
T had been sick for a few days and we werent even sure if he would have the energy to play.
he was lethargic.barking like a dog.wheezing.
he insisted that he was playing.no question.he was co captain.
we got to the game.huge winds.pouring rain.slippery ball.
the game was messy.scrappy.wet.
we didnt score for the first quarter.they kicked a goal.
we kick 6 points in the second to even the score.
no one scored in the third.
i felt sick.
i couldnt believe that these little guys might lose what they had worked so hard for all year.
i was calling the universe.asking for help.
we were all praying in some form.
the boys had no flow.they werent playing their normal game.
perhaps the grand final pressure had crawled under their skin.
the expectation of perfection.
the expectation of extended family watching proudly.
the expectation of hundreds of locals.
the dreams of their football club who were awaiting their first premiership flag.
pressure from themselves.
in the last break we heard some inspirational words from their coach.
he told them he was proud.he told them they could do it.he never showed any doubt.
the fourth quarter was tense.intense.
we feared the worst.
the opposition were getting frustrated.
perfect for our boys.they held tight.
the clock was ticking.still no score.
finally in the last 7 minutes of the game the boys switched on.
something clicked.and they were off.
they kicked a goal.
the crowd went wild.
once that ball went through those posts there was no stopping them.
they kicked another.
and then another.and one to finish.
and then the siren rang and the boys had their moment.
shining stars.great mates.
heroes in the eyes of all who witnessed it.
i shed a little tear.
and watched my boy smile like ive never seen before.
i watched him recieve his medal from the mayor.
i watched into the night as the boys celebrated their victory.
and i couldnt be prouder.
i never wanted my boys to play football.
i thought it was too rough.
i am so happy they do.
T has learnt so much this year.
not just about the game.
no.he has learnt about friendship.impact.focus and passion.
he has learnt that an injured team mate can still be with you on grand final day.on a photo.in your sock.
he has learnt about fairness.loyalty.pride.
he has learnet what it means to be a part of a team.

day 12...young love.

2009-08-17T12:11:00.002+10:00

look how young and cute and blissed out we were way back when.we were only freshly dating here.and yes it was a dress up party.but we did go out for dinner afterwards in a total drunken mess with C's sister and some of her STRAIGHT friends.hmmmm,im sure they were all SO impressed.i didnt care about anything back then except for that guy sitting next to me.nothing else mattered.pleased to say i still think he is the finest specimen i have ever laid eyes on.oh to be 20 again.

day 11...

2009-08-17T08:33:00.004+10:00

hes our boy.our sooky lala boy.xx

thanks to the byron life for a photo a day in august.

a photo a day...day 9 and 10.

2009-08-14T18:48:00.010+10:00

oops i slipped again.but i have an excuse.sick in bed the last couple of days.unheard of for a mother but it totally wiped me out.still not great but surely on the mend.the worst bit is missing my friends 40th surprise birthday tonight.in an amazing rented house in mt. martha.im feeling very sad and sorry for myself.boo hoo.poor me.anyways.......

this little cutie turned 3 today.she got a zillion presents ofcourse but i think the one she liked the best was the recycled present from us.my beautiful girl gave her barbie collection to her little cousin because she larves barbie.like big time.she carried the bag around with her all day.there were about 10 barbies...some with interesting haircuts ?! all poking their pretty little barbie heads out of the bag.inside were all barbie's outfits.heaven for a little barbie fan.i love to give a recycled present that still has a little life left in it.but i always feel like a tight arse when i do it.i also made her up a huge box full of homemade playdough with a million cutters and shapes and a book on play-do-making.also recycled.but clean and fresh. tight???

my sister threw her an amazing butterfly party which included a visit from 'the butterfly lady' who pitched a tent in the kitchen and had all the kids have a turn of holding a real butterfly.so sweet.my sister is a great mumma.

i wish E the happiest of days and hope that 3 is everything she wants it to be.
oh and dont mean to brag or anything but here is the cake i made for E....a butterfly of course.

day 8

2009-08-11T00:19:00.004+10:00

this is my neice.
i call her katie koo.
C calls her moo cow.
she is super cute.and delicate.
but she has the gruffest voice.
she will colour all day.
and "do craft"
she reminds me of tinkabell.
and she is shy.sometimes.
xx

are you joining in on the photo a day?
if you are,please leave a message and i will pop over and look at yours too.

day 7.

2009-08-11T00:15:00.005+10:00

this was taken at my friends 40th.
i hate the flash.it looks so unnatural and harsh.
i would rather blur and grain than harsh.
i like this photo.i dont know why.

its not too late to join in on Megans "a photo a day in August"...go on.do it.

day 6.a photo a day in august....

2009-08-10T15:28:00.004+10:00

a little sum'n sum'n i made last year for the if awards.
because all we need is love.

for more lovely photography,head over to the byron life.shes the lady who created a photo a day in august to get us all off of our bums and inspired to pick up the camera on a daily bbasis.

day 5.a photo a day in August...

2009-08-10T15:16:00.001+10:00

oops ...i slipped.so i will post 2 photos today.or maybe 3...
my boy turned 12 on Saturday.this is what we did.
uh-huh.

twelve.

2009-08-07T21:23:00.007+10:00

12 things about J as a little boy.

1.the day he entered this world,he made it sparkly and new.and he made me grow up.happily.
2.he didnt like to sleep more than 40 minutes at any time.day or night.
3.he taught me all about love.patience.acceptance.
4.he loved barney the dinosaur.and playschool.and his silkies
5.he was obsessed with guns and weapons.nothing i did could stop him.
6.from the moment he opened his eyes he had an intensity.a frown.
7.from the moment he could sit he wanted to crawl.
8.from the moment he could crawl he wanted to walk.
9.he walked at 8 months.
10.and then he ran.
11.he climbed anything and everything.
12.he thought he could fly.

12 things about J at 12.

1.he loves to skate.scooter.bmx.
2.he knows about shoes.and he spends all his cash on his collection.
3.he is kind.considerate.charming.
4.he has a select few close friends.true friends.
5.he is a gentle soul.
6.he is an incredible artist.
7.he knows good from bad.
8.he can connect with a 3 year old.a 20 year old.a 60 year old.
9.he knows how to pull things apart and put them back together.
10.he is a beautiful,protective big brother.most of the time.
11.he cant wait for high school and the freedom it entails.
12.he has a passion for fashion.

12 years ago my baby boy entered this world and changed my world.
i love him more than words can express.
and i wish him the happiest of days and a life of blessings.
i hope his sweet sweet dreams come true.
fly little man fly......

xxxx

a photo a day . day 4. impressive.

2009-08-06T23:06:00.004+10:00

a photo a day in august.i like this one.
4 days in a row.....im excited.oh yeah.

im involved in a special project.masterminded by lovely kirsty at kootoyoo. shes clever.but doesnt brag about it.thanks kirsty for letting me join in.i cant wait to get started.

day 3...a photo a day....

2009-08-05T11:10:00.005+10:00

one of my very favourite photos.me and my 3 best friends in all the world.we were 16.always laughing.free spirits.dreamers.nerds.and we were "supposed" to be painting a factory roof.ha!

for more "a photo a day", head over to the byron life .theres a side bar list of all whos playing along.....enjoy....

a photo a day....2

2009-08-04T10:15:00.004+10:00

i love this photo of my girl with her favourite creature in all the world.cant you just feel the larve.

The Byron Life: A Photo a Day in August

2009-08-04T10:04:00.003+10:00

as you may know,i am not the most consistent blogger....i do try but weeks seem to slip past me without a single post.well peoples....this clever person over at The Byron Life: A Photo a Day in August has started a group called "a photo a day in August"....and Ive signed myself up....so here goes...I'm already 4 days late but anyway..

my first image speaks for itself really.as i have 2 very active boys,my winter consists of a LOT of football.I'm talking 4 nights a week training AND 2 games on Sundays...its full on.the only way i could really embrace this commitment was to sign myself up as the team photographer.so how could i start a photo a day in August without one of the thousands of photos i have taken recently?? I promise this will not be a recurring theme...but how cute are all those 10 year old legs??

Jill.

2009-07-29T01:10:00.004+10:00

phot originally uploaded by http://www.flickr.com/photos/nsukhia/

last night i had a dream.
i woke in tears.
the tears wouldnt stop.
i thought I had missed my chance to farewell a friend.
i thought my dream was telling me i was too late.
my dream made me sad.
my dream woke me up.
my dream told me to go and see my friend.
but how does one say goodbye to a person?
goodbye forever.
goodbye to someone whos not in my life so much
but had impact on my life a long time before.
my friend has melanoma.
my friend has been told 2 weeks.
my friend is now on borrowed time.
she is taking visitors.2 at a time.When she is up for it.
she is a tough nut to crack.
but under that shell lies a sweetheart.
a sweet sweet heart.
a chef.
a mother.
a worker.
a lover of a laugh.
this lady fed me steak when I was pregnant.
she worried for my iron levels.
she told me my baby would sleep one day
and said just the right words when i found i was pregnant again.
she gave me soup at the end of a shift.
i gave her gin and tonic.
ohe has no idea the things I remember.
or the things she did that helped my world.
she never said too much.
but you always knew her thoughts.
she let you know she cared.
she let you know when you were ok.
and she let you know when you were not.
much time has past since those days.
and now she is drifting away.
and I dreamed of her last night.
and i thought I had missed my chance.
my one and only chance.
but how does one say goodbye?
or do we not.
do we chat and ignore the obvious?
do we say nothing of the end?
or do i tell her thankyou?
and do I say goodbye?
thankyou for the mum you were.
to us all.
thankyou for your strength.
and thankyou for your courage.
thankyou for a friendship.
and then do I kiss her cheek.
and walk away knowing.
knowing this is the last time.
knowing she will go soon.
i cry when I think of it.
how can i possibly do it?
how can I say goodbye?

this I know......

2009-06-22T20:27:00.004+10:00

* i am a shit blogger.shit.shit.shitty.shit.i get on a roll and then i get lost in life.crazy,full on life.well i am back.and i will TRY to be more consistent.i've said it before and i will probably say it again.

*trivia is not my forte.i am way too confident in my answers,and am usually wrong leading to some disgruntled team members.

*my favourite quilt has gone to a new home.was sad to say goodbye.

*i want to dance.i want to find an adult dance class and boogiloo till i puke.

*i am blessed.blessed to live in a country that lives in peace.blessed to have my vote counted.blessed to be heard.

*gossip girl has stolen my heart.s and b and naughty chuck bass.ooooh its good.

*i love this guy.we dont have an official anniversary but it is somewhere in june.i met c 17 years ago.and he still rocks me at all the right moments.even dressed as a hippy mongolian.

*yarraville markets is full again.full to the brim.yay.happily full.and i am meeting some incredibly talented and lovely artist/designers along the way.

*when my laptop is not playing nicely,i realise what a terrible addiction i have.

*when winter hits,i feel a little flat.i scrutinise my life,my journey,my questionable success,my diet,my friendships etc etc. all a little too heavy i know.but thats what winter does to me.

*i need chocolate and chamomile tea.and an early night.see you soon.no really.

the lemonade award!

2009-05-17T16:51:00.005+10:00

I have been awarded the Lemonade award by the lovely mumseekslife!! and apparently I now need to spread the love and award ten (gulp!) people who inspire and delight me with their blogs.

so here goes.....
first up and in no particular order

Sarah London. This lady has style.She loves colour like me. And she IS the crochet queen.

Strawberry Kisses. Visiting Ashley is a treat for the eyes.Always.Her blog is sweet and romantic. And shes a REALLY nice chick !!

Chalk and Talk. She makes me LAUGH. And she has a few blogs on the go including Stars Hollow .She also owns the cutest shop in Yarraville. (CHALK that is !) And she devours books and lends them to (slack) me. I like her a lot.

Sheye Rosemeyer I can honestly say that this blog changed my life. Sheye has the most amazing way with words and with her camera !!Her blog is full of beauty,joy and longing.She has taught me hold on to my babies a little tighter.

Kootoyoo Kirsty needs no introduction.She runs,crafts,mothers and likes pretty drinks.Her blog is always a treat.

Little Bubble And Tree The gorgeous Kelly is a hard workin mumma whos products are small-skin-friendly and adorable.

Arthurs Circus If you havent heard of Arthurs Circus,you must be living under a rock.Natalie has amazing style.She has a way with vintage.big time !!Visit the blog....and then visit the shop.So worth it !

Leni and Rose Michelles blog is always pretty and she gives great "blogging tips and tricks".Shes clever.

Eighty Days This blog is full of lovely stationary and other delightful stuff !! Great photos.Another mumma on a mission.

totally innocent Because its my heart and soul and it keeps me sane !

Thankyou lovely bloggers for the inspriation.

catching my eye...

2009-05-11T22:28:00.008+10:00

a friend gave me a copy of Valley Girl the other day.Its been years, but I still think thatRandy is like totally tubular.love it.love those 80s movies.i think it may be time to rescreen St Elmos Fire and The Breakfast Club.....

she loves her bed.

yarraville markets.the newest,hippest,most fun market to hit this town.....check it out over here

a new top for my niece.for her birthday. x

and again.

new fabrics brought back from Japan by my sons teacher.what an ace teacher he has.not sure what it will become as yet !!

my lovely daddy brought this bracelet home for me.all the way from Dubai.i am very impressed with his choice.

this photo was taken a few weeks back.it was a gathering of very old friends.some of us hadnt seen each other for 18 years.It was a great day.I think this photo captures the joy.

loving, not loving and thinking about.....

2009-04-21T09:27:00.008+10:00

*thinking about my two grandfathers and my uncle who fought in world war 1,world war 2 and vietnam.also thinking of those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom and those still living in the war zone.xx my love and gratitude.xx

* i am NOT loving the fact that i just deleted a post about my baby girls birthday.anyone know if its possible to retrieve it ?? i dont think i can do it again.

*i am loving these babushka wall stickers that my girl recieved for her birthday (thanks carls).they look amazing in her new room, and we had fun putting them up together.

*not loving the dose of gastro that hit me last night at about 5.30pm.bad timing.picking kids up and dropping kids off.Unavoidable.two hours in and i really thought that i may be dieing.what a sight to see as i drove along with my bucket in front of the steering wheel.my poor children.it also stuffed up my dinner date with a group of happening mums in business.spewing.literally.

*Loving the quiet house.My family are at the dawn service.I was planning on going too (see above!)

*thinking that watching movies all day sounds nice.not going to happen.not a chance.

*Love this lamp I bought for miss B for her birthday. Made by Retro Print Designs (no website unfortunately, but you can find Tam and all her goodies at the Yarraville Markets occasionally.

*Loving being the team photographer for the cutest team ever.Serious little boys with some very intense passion for the game.i took over 250 photos at the first game...oops.i started out as the watergirl, but running around a footy field really aint my thing.im a bit scared that the ball is going to get me !

*Loving my bed and trying to climb in a little earlier each night.i worked nights for many years and am a natural night owl....but when i force myself to bed,i feel so much better for it !

*Loving candles.lots of candles.

*Love love loving totally innocents new invitation range.they are sweet.and innocent.and friendly.and a little bit vintage.everything one wants from an invite !! You can find them over here.....really soon x

*my dad and my brother are @ Anzac Cove as we speak.i am so happy for them that they have taken this adventure together.love it.

*Hope your loving lots.and being loved lots.

happy birthday to moi.

2009-03-25T12:14:00.007+11:00

i had a lovely but quiet day.
i did some work.
i lunched with my brother and C.
had afternoon tea with all of my nieces and nephews.

had dinner with my 4 most favourite people in the world.
played on my new laptop!!(its not really new and it has a few keys missing but its mine.all mine.)
and went to bed.another year wiser.
i am going dancing on Saturday night.
my birthday can NEVER go for just one day. NEVER.

i recieved Kat Von Ds new book from my sweet sister.she always gets me just the right thing.its pwetty.in a tattoo kind of way.
im still a 15 year old at heart and i totally love kat - she is fierce and fiesty and incredibly talented.and i really want her to be my friend.

i also got some other special things but my favourite thing was recieving a card from my 4 year old niece.
it said -

"dear aunty lou,
i love you.youre so kind and youre so beautiful and i love you so much and you have so much things i can play with and you have lots of cups.
happy birthday youre really so good.

Love from Kate."

what a treasure.
im really so good.
and i have lots of cups ?

things i am loving.

2009-03-22T23:29:00.007+11:00

i am lovin this guy.he just gets a little bit bigger and cooler everyday.grade 6.how did that happen? NO, i dont know what high school he is going to.and yes,it is freaking me out.

ive tidied the blog a little.i had too many things going on.time to start fresh.i now have a happy list of lovely people who's blogs are definately worth a read!so check them out.

i have a new addiction.twitter.still dont quite get it.....but Im working on it. another thing to spend TOO much time on.oh dear.if your a twit,please twit me and i will twit you and we can live happily ever after in twittyland with all the other tweet peoples.

its my birthday on Tuesday.37.getting up there.i want lots of presents.37 presents would be nice.i want my famiily close by.i want cake with lashings of cream.i want fresh juice in the morning.and an eyelash tint.i want to make a wish.i want to see a film.and have a belly laugh.thats all.

i spent 4 days in Port Douglas recently with my guy.child free.amazing.we watched a LOT of movies.we laid in bed a LOT.we read books without any interruption.we ate a LOT.and swam lots.it deserved a mention.even if it is old news.i loved hanging out with C.he still rocks my world.

he took me to these waterfalls that he used to swim in when he was 21.pure bliss.