Getting my think on to come up with a title for October's blog series.....Jamie has come up with a few options. I seriously can't believe it's October tomorrow...that is just nuts. Things start to amp up in November heading into the Christmas season and the summer months. I love summer......everything is better in summer.
What a nice and cruisey day I had today. I had a lovely long coffee date with a gorgeous midwife/birthy friend. It was just so lovely to sit for a time and talk, share experiences and ponder. She was able to shed some light on a few issues I needed clarifying and give me all important insight. She spoke my language. Ahhh bless her. What a beautiful woman she is.
It's so nice hanging out with hubby....we even went for a walk because you know that's what town people do you know. We strolled the streets with three of the kids and nosey-ed into people's yards. There are some beautiful homes around. Which of course got us thinking about where we will be come Thursday.
It was good afternoon and now we are waiting on friends to come round and hang out for a drink or two....it's Friday night and all.
Jamie is preaching on Sunday. I have heard part of it already and it's sounding great.
What are you up to this Saturday. .....doing anything special?
Thursday, September 29, 2016
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
September's Stories Day 29 - Change Takes Time
I wish you guys could see tonight's photo.....it's a goodie. Unfortunately I can only upload it to instagram off my phone and not my blog. It's of Jamie and me when we were 21. Man we were young. We were 23 when we got married....I think back now and think about how young we actually were. Plus we thought we were the most in love you could possibly be but boy was I wrong! We love each other a thousand times more now than we did then. There is so much depth there now. A history and a richness. Definitely been the best time of my life.
Jamie has been at conference for three nights and fours day and while it's not the longest we have been a part. It's not fun but we get there. I had a meeting today, an all day one which meant getting out of the house with seven kiddies with togs, gumboots, food and for some a change of clothes. I realise that some awesome mamas do this every single day but for this homeschooling mama it's quite an unnatural thing to be doing. I am not going to lie it was a mission and a half. BUT I left only a mere two mins late from my predetermined time. Good effort all round. All though five mins out of town I had to turn around because I forgotten the nappy bag. Ten minutes wasted...then another five min delay because I had a carsickie. Awesome.....not! But I slid into my seat after dropping the kids off with a mere two mins to spare. Even got a pastry and a coffee before the meeting started. Terribly important.
I enjoyed today's meeting. I am finding my voice more and more. I think what I find frustrating the most is that change takes so long to accomplish because all the boxes have to be ticked along the way. I want to see change now! But I know that at the end of this project the women whose voice I carry and represent will benefit greatly from what we are doing. These people are passionate, all on the same page and determine that there will be a better....it has to be.
I wish I could tell you more but keep watching this space!!!
Jamie has been at conference for three nights and fours day and while it's not the longest we have been a part. It's not fun but we get there. I had a meeting today, an all day one which meant getting out of the house with seven kiddies with togs, gumboots, food and for some a change of clothes. I realise that some awesome mamas do this every single day but for this homeschooling mama it's quite an unnatural thing to be doing. I am not going to lie it was a mission and a half. BUT I left only a mere two mins late from my predetermined time. Good effort all round. All though five mins out of town I had to turn around because I forgotten the nappy bag. Ten minutes wasted...then another five min delay because I had a carsickie. Awesome.....not! But I slid into my seat after dropping the kids off with a mere two mins to spare. Even got a pastry and a coffee before the meeting started. Terribly important.
I enjoyed today's meeting. I am finding my voice more and more. I think what I find frustrating the most is that change takes so long to accomplish because all the boxes have to be ticked along the way. I want to see change now! But I know that at the end of this project the women whose voice I carry and represent will benefit greatly from what we are doing. These people are passionate, all on the same page and determine that there will be a better....it has to be.
I wish I could tell you more but keep watching this space!!!
September's Stories Day 28 -Covered in Spit Ninja Mum
I got a sleep in this morning...boy did I need it. Jayden (13) got up to be with the kids so I could have some more sleep. Bless him. I don't sleep very well when Jamie isn't home. I think that is because I am it and I don't want to miss one of the kids needing me in the middle of the night. He is back tomorrow thankfully. Three nights and four days of solo parenting and I start to go a little crazy or crazier depending on who you are talking to.
I am currently lying here next to Jesse, waiting for him to drop off to sleep....he has only just stopped showering me with spot from his machine gun noises he was practicing. I love him.
An interesting morning as we were presented with a spectacular man vs horse routine in the paddock next door. Horse won by the way. Clover/Lily must of been in a mood because she was chasing her owner and stepping him out. Clearly he was more than a little scared because he was frantically trying to fend her off by hitting her with a bag of bread....to no avail. It was pretty funny. She ended up chasing him around the yard and back through the gate.
I am up early tomorrow as I have an all day meeting in the city....yep off to change the face of the Maternity Service and Womens Health. Always enjoy these meetings plus they feed you well and the coffee is good. It will be a mission to get the kids up and dressed, fed and out the door when they have been on cruise mode for the past few weeks. My bestie is looking after them....Bless her. They will have fun.
Ooooo look I think he asleep. Yuss! Now to extract myself.....I should of been a ninja. Xx
I am currently lying here next to Jesse, waiting for him to drop off to sleep....he has only just stopped showering me with spot from his machine gun noises he was practicing. I love him.
An interesting morning as we were presented with a spectacular man vs horse routine in the paddock next door. Horse won by the way. Clover/Lily must of been in a mood because she was chasing her owner and stepping him out. Clearly he was more than a little scared because he was frantically trying to fend her off by hitting her with a bag of bread....to no avail. It was pretty funny. She ended up chasing him around the yard and back through the gate.
I am up early tomorrow as I have an all day meeting in the city....yep off to change the face of the Maternity Service and Womens Health. Always enjoy these meetings plus they feed you well and the coffee is good. It will be a mission to get the kids up and dressed, fed and out the door when they have been on cruise mode for the past few weeks. My bestie is looking after them....Bless her. They will have fun.
Ooooo look I think he asleep. Yuss! Now to extract myself.....I should of been a ninja. Xx
Monday, September 26, 2016
September's Stories Day 27 - Crazy Normal Day
Seriously could my day get anymore crazy....
- Oil light is on in the van.....off to get oil put in it because I can't find our container of oil.
- Buy large flat white coffee from McDonalds and win an "instant win" $200 voucher. Awesome
- Drop two kids off at friends. Pick a package up from the petrol station that someone has dropped off for me.....I was grilled as to whether I was the correct person like it was a package of serious contraband......it was ps4 games that a friend dropped off for me....Seriously who else just waltzes into a gas station and asks for a package of os4 games.
- Lose my three year old. Find my three year old running off to the dairy with no pants on and wearing gumboots. Awesome parenting.
- Pester son who is sick with asthma and a chest infection about taking appropriate medication throughout the day after he invokes another asthma attack after slipping over in the shower and giving himself a fright.
- Chopped wood.
- Upload the three remaining kittens into a buy and sell site and had 29 inquiries in two hours.
- Deliver the last of a lot of meals to a gorgeous new mum....nearly cried on leaving.
- Walk to dairy with little people only to deal with grumpy shopkeeper who needs a sense of humor and to learn what it's like for a near four year getting to choose his own lollies!
- Need to be in two places at once for Loving Arms and trying really hard to do all correspondence on my tiny phone using my data because of no WiFi.
- Find out my awesome $200 voucher that I won is for a "epic "skateboard shop in Australia! EPIC!......not.
- A friend makes us dessert
- Another friend makes us dinner and delivers it along with life- saving chocolate. Thank you!
- Go to super market only to forget half of what I need. Yes I wrote a list AND had it with me.
Is anyone else ready for bed? I am! With chocolate!!!!!!!!
- Oil light is on in the van.....off to get oil put in it because I can't find our container of oil.
- Buy large flat white coffee from McDonalds and win an "instant win" $200 voucher. Awesome
- Drop two kids off at friends. Pick a package up from the petrol station that someone has dropped off for me.....I was grilled as to whether I was the correct person like it was a package of serious contraband......it was ps4 games that a friend dropped off for me....Seriously who else just waltzes into a gas station and asks for a package of os4 games.
- Lose my three year old. Find my three year old running off to the dairy with no pants on and wearing gumboots. Awesome parenting.
- Pester son who is sick with asthma and a chest infection about taking appropriate medication throughout the day after he invokes another asthma attack after slipping over in the shower and giving himself a fright.
- Chopped wood.
- Upload the three remaining kittens into a buy and sell site and had 29 inquiries in two hours.
- Deliver the last of a lot of meals to a gorgeous new mum....nearly cried on leaving.
- Walk to dairy with little people only to deal with grumpy shopkeeper who needs a sense of humor and to learn what it's like for a near four year getting to choose his own lollies!
- Need to be in two places at once for Loving Arms and trying really hard to do all correspondence on my tiny phone using my data because of no WiFi.
- Find out my awesome $200 voucher that I won is for a "epic "skateboard shop in Australia! EPIC!......not.
- A friend makes us dessert
- Another friend makes us dinner and delivers it along with life- saving chocolate. Thank you!
- Go to super market only to forget half of what I need. Yes I wrote a list AND had it with me.
Is anyone else ready for bed? I am! With chocolate!!!!!!!!
Sunday, September 25, 2016
September's Stories Day 26 - Some Things Never Change
Yep somethings never do change....e my washing pile. It's huge today but seeing is we don't have a vast window seat for me to leave it lying around I NEED to fold it quickly or else it gets strewn all over the house. I'll do it tonight after the kids are in bed.
So we are nearly at one week until we need to shift again....and honestly I am not looking forward to it. We don't know where to as of yet but are confident we won't be homeless and something will come up. And seeing as we are quite enjoying our stint in town we are not loathe to move into town. We just need some space.
I hadn't been feeling my usual self for a few days....being tired will do that to you. But an awesome time at night church was refreshing and restoring. I feel much better now.
The kids have discovered that there is a horse next door and have named it Clover or Lily depending on who you talk to. Yes we are in town and there is a horse. Go figure. I am slowly losing all my carrots to Clover/Lily. She will miss us when we are gone.
Short blog tonight as I am running out of data. Loving Arms has been crazy busy of late which normally wouldn't be a problem but it's eating up my data allowance. I have already had to buy extra.
We got rid of two of our kittens today to a LOVELY family who were super excited to have new members of there family. Two down three to go! Yuss!
Til tomorrow.....xxx
So we are nearly at one week until we need to shift again....and honestly I am not looking forward to it. We don't know where to as of yet but are confident we won't be homeless and something will come up. And seeing as we are quite enjoying our stint in town we are not loathe to move into town. We just need some space.
I hadn't been feeling my usual self for a few days....being tired will do that to you. But an awesome time at night church was refreshing and restoring. I feel much better now.
The kids have discovered that there is a horse next door and have named it Clover or Lily depending on who you talk to. Yes we are in town and there is a horse. Go figure. I am slowly losing all my carrots to Clover/Lily. She will miss us when we are gone.
Short blog tonight as I am running out of data. Loving Arms has been crazy busy of late which normally wouldn't be a problem but it's eating up my data allowance. I have already had to buy extra.
We got rid of two of our kittens today to a LOVELY family who were super excited to have new members of there family. Two down three to go! Yuss!
Til tomorrow.....xxx
September's Stories Day 25 - Back to Basics
Seeing our most of our stuff is packed away AND we have no WiFi we are really having to pull out all stops to keep the kids entertained when it's raining especially when it's raining. It's a small house and we are living in each other's pockets. Lucky we like camping and can cope without most everyday things. We can live with two pots, no kitchen whizz and a few plates between us.
Casey walked into town the other day because he was bored and bought a pack of cards seeing ours are packed away. Yes they can walk now and it only takes them ten minutes.
I spent some time teaching him a game that my mum taught me how to play and would play with us from time to time. Now everyone wants to play it.....I think it's called Koon Can or maybe its Gin Rummy. I love it when they get hooked on a game but the thing with that is that they want to play it ever spare moment they have....and want me to play it with them and seeing I don't have as many as spare moments as they do!
But no seriously I do love it! So we are going back to basics around here for a while nothing wrong with that. Seeing there is no WiFi that means no devices unless your mum and dad with data on their phone. So the younger kids are also digging out the old computer games as well....one's that dont require WiFi. They are great! Maybe I won't tell them when it goes back on...if it ever gets back on!
I hope you enjoy your week! Til tomorrow! Xxx
Casey walked into town the other day because he was bored and bought a pack of cards seeing ours are packed away. Yes they can walk now and it only takes them ten minutes.
I spent some time teaching him a game that my mum taught me how to play and would play with us from time to time. Now everyone wants to play it.....I think it's called Koon Can or maybe its Gin Rummy. I love it when they get hooked on a game but the thing with that is that they want to play it ever spare moment they have....and want me to play it with them and seeing I don't have as many as spare moments as they do!
But no seriously I do love it! So we are going back to basics around here for a while nothing wrong with that. Seeing there is no WiFi that means no devices unless your mum and dad with data on their phone. So the younger kids are also digging out the old computer games as well....one's that dont require WiFi. They are great! Maybe I won't tell them when it goes back on...if it ever gets back on!
I hope you enjoy your week! Til tomorrow! Xxx
Saturday, September 24, 2016
September's Stories Day 24 - On Being Judgemental
There is nothing like getting slapped in the face with the reality of our world to make you reflect on one's own life and where you are at. Loving Arms has provided me such a rich look into the lives of the very people that we share our community with....and I am pretty sure I have only mere scratched the surface of it.
I have been writing a blog in my head for the past two days as I have been reflecting a lot, thinking a lot about the stories of the women and their families I have met over the past two days. It's a piece of writing that will have to written on a computer not a wee phone screen. It will have to wait. BUT I will share this with you...maybe you can relate. When I think about it now it brings tears to my eyes.
Judgemental. It's something none of want to be but most likely on some level are. The bible tells us not to pass judgment on people yet we are programmed to by our upbringing, media and our peers. None of would want to be told we were or dare to admit we were. Let me ask you....how are we to love and serve we are quick to judge.
I have the pleasure of working with a mum and her sweet baby. I visited her yesterday to drop off a meal. A group of young guys were hanging out in the driveway working on a car. They were a little rough looking, baggy jeans around their legs, smoking and heavy rap music blasting from the car. As I walked up the driveway I felt a little intimidated (by what I don't know) and said a little prayer " oh Lord please protect me"......what the hang?! I felt a short sharp "excuse me!" in my spirit.
Where did that come from? Why did I just set eyes upon a group of people and automatically think I wasn't coming out alive. A little dramatic don't you think?I hadn't even met them or spoken to them. How unfair and so wrong of me. Its it amazing to think of all the outside influences that cause us to pass judgement without them even uttering a word. I was/am so embarrassed. But thankful that the Lord showed that to me. He calls us to love, to see people how he sees them and love them fully. And you can't do that when you are passing judgement just by looking at them.
There is so much more to that story and I will share it with you when I can get back to being in the 21st century. Please don't think I am saying to go around and not use your God given wisdom but its something to certainly have a think about.
I have been writing a blog in my head for the past two days as I have been reflecting a lot, thinking a lot about the stories of the women and their families I have met over the past two days. It's a piece of writing that will have to written on a computer not a wee phone screen. It will have to wait. BUT I will share this with you...maybe you can relate. When I think about it now it brings tears to my eyes.
Judgemental. It's something none of want to be but most likely on some level are. The bible tells us not to pass judgment on people yet we are programmed to by our upbringing, media and our peers. None of would want to be told we were or dare to admit we were. Let me ask you....how are we to love and serve we are quick to judge.
I have the pleasure of working with a mum and her sweet baby. I visited her yesterday to drop off a meal. A group of young guys were hanging out in the driveway working on a car. They were a little rough looking, baggy jeans around their legs, smoking and heavy rap music blasting from the car. As I walked up the driveway I felt a little intimidated (by what I don't know) and said a little prayer " oh Lord please protect me"......what the hang?! I felt a short sharp "excuse me!" in my spirit.
Where did that come from? Why did I just set eyes upon a group of people and automatically think I wasn't coming out alive. A little dramatic don't you think?I hadn't even met them or spoken to them. How unfair and so wrong of me. Its it amazing to think of all the outside influences that cause us to pass judgement without them even uttering a word. I was/am so embarrassed. But thankful that the Lord showed that to me. He calls us to love, to see people how he sees them and love them fully. And you can't do that when you are passing judgement just by looking at them.
There is so much more to that story and I will share it with you when I can get back to being in the 21st century. Please don't think I am saying to go around and not use your God given wisdom but its something to certainly have a think about.
Friday, September 23, 2016
September's Stories Day 23 - You Know it's Friday Night When.....
Yep. You know it's Friday when this is your groove in your house. Disney is playing The Lion King for the little people, it's sausages and chips for dinner, your hubby is out and there is wine in your glass. What a week!!
I had another meeting today.....decidedly soooo much better than the one on Wednesday. Even though there is much work to do to improve the maternity service and care that is provided to the women of Waikato...there is definite improvement in key areas. It's really great to be a part of such a working group that have women and their babies at the centre of their focus.
Loving Arms is working with a mum and her sweet baby boy at the moment. If nothing is has made it more evident of the need for better community INTEREST and CARE in supporting new mums and families. Seeing how much a hot meal, a box of nappies and a friendly face and chat can mean to someone is truly priceless. Plus when you get to see all the cute babies that their mums are so proud to show you....well it really melts the heart.
Tomorrow is Saturday as I am sure you will all know but it's the first day we have had off together with nothing on...in a very very long time. What shall we do? Better make the mostof it....our next one is next Friday or Saturday!
Enjoy your Friday evening xxx
I had another meeting today.....decidedly soooo much better than the one on Wednesday. Even though there is much work to do to improve the maternity service and care that is provided to the women of Waikato...there is definite improvement in key areas. It's really great to be a part of such a working group that have women and their babies at the centre of their focus.
Loving Arms is working with a mum and her sweet baby boy at the moment. If nothing is has made it more evident of the need for better community INTEREST and CARE in supporting new mums and families. Seeing how much a hot meal, a box of nappies and a friendly face and chat can mean to someone is truly priceless. Plus when you get to see all the cute babies that their mums are so proud to show you....well it really melts the heart.
Tomorrow is Saturday as I am sure you will all know but it's the first day we have had off together with nothing on...in a very very long time. What shall we do? Better make the mostof it....our next one is next Friday or Saturday!
Enjoy your Friday evening xxx
Thursday, September 22, 2016
September's Stories Day 22 - Chocolate Thief
I am not happy! Someone and probably someone little stole AND ate the last of my chocolate. Now who was it?! Everyone knows that you NEVER mess with the mamas chocolate! Of course they are all denying it. So who was it......Miss Scarlet in the kitchen with the candlestick......
So it's our first date night in a while so I'll love and leave you here.....any thoughts as to who the culprit is??
Ciao....see ya tomorrow! Xx
So it's our first date night in a while so I'll love and leave you here.....any thoughts as to who the culprit is??
Ciao....see ya tomorrow! Xx
Wednesday, September 21, 2016
September's Stories Day 21 - Exhausted
I am exhausted tonight and have one doozy of a headache hence I am with my feet up waiting for bed time for my little people. It's alright to be exhausted from time to time so there is no need to worry. I am just being real....I have had a big day and have lots going on at the moment. I know it won't last forever it's just for a season.
I had a meeting today one that left me frustrated and feeling quite helpless. But after a big cry to my poor husband who is well used to my big crys and chatting with some wise women I do feel so much better.
What is it with change do we fear so much? It is the unknown? Is it the fear of feeling regret? Or is it that we can't imagine anything different let alone better than the status quo? What is it with taking responsibility? Do we fear failure so much that we don't want to take the chance, we don't want the pressure of making decisions lest we fail.... so we don't. We hand over responsibility to someone else. Is that so we have someone else that's not us to blame if all goes a little askew?
So tell me how does one initiate change when people like the idea of it, say they want it but don't do anything towards it?
These are the kind of things I faced today. Can you see why I am exhausted?
Again no pic tonight as there is STILL no WiFi....please let it come tomorrow. Otherwise I might just have to move into my husbands office! Now that would be fun!
I had a meeting today one that left me frustrated and feeling quite helpless. But after a big cry to my poor husband who is well used to my big crys and chatting with some wise women I do feel so much better.
What is it with change do we fear so much? It is the unknown? Is it the fear of feeling regret? Or is it that we can't imagine anything different let alone better than the status quo? What is it with taking responsibility? Do we fear failure so much that we don't want to take the chance, we don't want the pressure of making decisions lest we fail.... so we don't. We hand over responsibility to someone else. Is that so we have someone else that's not us to blame if all goes a little askew?
So tell me how does one initiate change when people like the idea of it, say they want it but don't do anything towards it?
These are the kind of things I faced today. Can you see why I am exhausted?
Again no pic tonight as there is STILL no WiFi....please let it come tomorrow. Otherwise I might just have to move into my husbands office! Now that would be fun!
September's Stories Day 21 - Exhausted
I am exhausted tonight and have one doozy of a headache hence I am with my feet up waiting for bed time for my little people. It's alright to be exhausted from time to time so there is no need to worry. I am just being real....I have had a big day and have lots going on at the moment. I know it won't last forever it's just for a season.
I had a meeting today one that left me frustrated and feeling quite helpless. But after a big cry to my poor husband who is well used to my big crys and chatting with some wise women I do feel so much better.
What is it with change do we fear so much? It is the unknown? Is it the fear of feeling regret? Or is it that we can't imagine anything different let alone better than the status quo? What is it with taking responsibility? Do we fear failure so much that we don't want to take the chance, we don't want the pressure of making decisions lest we fail.... so we don't. We hand over responsibility to someone else. Is that so we have someone else that's not us to blame if all goes a little askew?
So tell me how does one initiate change when people like the idea of it, say they want it but don't do anything towards it?
These are the kind of things I faced today. Can you see why I am exhausted?
Again no pic tonight as there is STILL no WiFi....please let it come tomorrow. Otherwise I might just have to move into my husbands office! Now that would be fun!
I had a meeting today one that left me frustrated and feeling quite helpless. But after a big cry to my poor husband who is well used to my big crys and chatting with some wise women I do feel so much better.
What is it with change do we fear so much? It is the unknown? Is it the fear of feeling regret? Or is it that we can't imagine anything different let alone better than the status quo? What is it with taking responsibility? Do we fear failure so much that we don't want to take the chance, we don't want the pressure of making decisions lest we fail.... so we don't. We hand over responsibility to someone else. Is that so we have someone else that's not us to blame if all goes a little askew?
So tell me how does one initiate change when people like the idea of it, say they want it but don't do anything towards it?
These are the kind of things I faced today. Can you see why I am exhausted?
Again no pic tonight as there is STILL no WiFi....please let it come tomorrow. Otherwise I might just have to move into my husbands office! Now that would be fun!
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
September's Stories Day 20 - A Girl and Her Cat
I really wish I could post these two photos that I took today of Frankie and her friend which is actually Thomas's cat. She REALLY loves her and hugs her with such passion and energy. It looks like she would be hurting it but the cat never runs away and makes a sound and certainly keeps coming back for more. It is such a sight to see a wee mite of a lass carrying around a big cat!
We have five kittens at the moment. ...anyone want one? They are ridiculously cute. They survived the move very well and the two cats and kittens have made themselves at home here in the neighbourhood.
Jesse has made a friend over the fence as he is always climbing up and peering over the top to watch the trains. He yells out "Hi there...How are you?" Every single time he sees him and fortunately the older gentleman is obliging and always answers him. I hope he won't mind this continuing because every single time a train goes past we have to run out and watch it. He particularly loves them shunting around the yard.
I feel like we are in a space of limbo but also rest. We have closed a chapter and waiting for another to begin so we are in the turning of the page time. It's a strange place to be but it's not a bad.....certainly not bad at all.
We have five kittens at the moment. ...anyone want one? They are ridiculously cute. They survived the move very well and the two cats and kittens have made themselves at home here in the neighbourhood.
Jesse has made a friend over the fence as he is always climbing up and peering over the top to watch the trains. He yells out "Hi there...How are you?" Every single time he sees him and fortunately the older gentleman is obliging and always answers him. I hope he won't mind this continuing because every single time a train goes past we have to run out and watch it. He particularly loves them shunting around the yard.
I feel like we are in a space of limbo but also rest. We have closed a chapter and waiting for another to begin so we are in the turning of the page time. It's a strange place to be but it's not a bad.....certainly not bad at all.
Monday, September 19, 2016
September's Stories Day 19 - Monday
Again I have no photo.....hopefully we can connect with the 21st century in a few days. It will be that long as we apparently have to get a new modem seeing this house has super fast fibre available. Looking forward to that !
Had a relatively normal kind of Monday....which was a nice change. Finally managed to send off my resume. I am applying for a position on a panel that meets twice a year that reviews maternity cases where serious events have occurred. I never know what to write when they ask " Why do you want this role? " All I could come up with was because "I just do"....but the help of a lovely lady I formulated that answer into something more acceptable.
I did end up going out to say goodbye to the house and to handover the keys to the owners. I got a little sad when I saw our empty bedroom and the empty dining room and kitchen. I will miss it. I even hugged the landlord.....quite possibly the only tenant in the world to do that but I just had to .....we had been in each other's lives for eight years!
Jesse and I went a walk around the new neighbourhood this evening. Thought we should make the most of our adventure. We discovered a friendly black and white cat that followed us a way back to our house. Like we need another cat.
I have discovered that my children have indoor, outdoor and in-the-country outdoor voices. I have to keep reminding them to tone it down and that we have neighbours.
So there you go....quite a normal kind of Monday don't you think?
Til tomorrow xc
Had a relatively normal kind of Monday....which was a nice change. Finally managed to send off my resume. I am applying for a position on a panel that meets twice a year that reviews maternity cases where serious events have occurred. I never know what to write when they ask " Why do you want this role? " All I could come up with was because "I just do"....but the help of a lovely lady I formulated that answer into something more acceptable.
I did end up going out to say goodbye to the house and to handover the keys to the owners. I got a little sad when I saw our empty bedroom and the empty dining room and kitchen. I will miss it. I even hugged the landlord.....quite possibly the only tenant in the world to do that but I just had to .....we had been in each other's lives for eight years!
Jesse and I went a walk around the new neighbourhood this evening. Thought we should make the most of our adventure. We discovered a friendly black and white cat that followed us a way back to our house. Like we need another cat.
I have discovered that my children have indoor, outdoor and in-the-country outdoor voices. I have to keep reminding them to tone it down and that we have neighbours.
So there you go....quite a normal kind of Monday don't you think?
Til tomorrow xc
Sunday, September 18, 2016
September's Stories Day 18 - Post Moving Day
Well today Sunday, I am usually attending church with my family
But I was just so tired and my two littlies were exhausted as well and to be really honest I couldn't face them taking them to church this morning because I knew it wouldn't have been a pretty sight. So instead we three hung out at home and watched movies, played with toys I managed to dig out and drank coffee....well I drank coffee they didn't. A totally relaxed kind of day but in saying that I really struggled to keep my tiredness and consequently my grumpiness at bay.
And then the sun came out and I managed to get some washing out on the line......ah a sense of normal. I needed that. Jamie spent the afternoon doing a few last loads of bits and pieces and now our house is empty. I am not sure I want to go and see it empty or not. I know I will be sad at seeing the empty rooms. So many memories formed there, parties, family dinners, Christmases, birthdays, three more babies have been added to our family while living there, two of which birthed there. A wedding and loads of dinners with friends. Loads of laughs and many tears. See I just don't know if I can face it. But I also don't want not to have closure. I guess I'll see tomorrow.
I have formed a wee spot in the "dining room" where I can see out the window with a place for my coffee and read my bible. My view is very different now but still it's going to be 'my' spot.
Hey I vacuumed this evening and it literally took me two mins. I think I am in love with teeny spaces...if housework is this easy! My kids for the first time EVER walked to friends houses and home again. What if I get used to town living??!! Eek!
But I was just so tired and my two littlies were exhausted as well and to be really honest I couldn't face them taking them to church this morning because I knew it wouldn't have been a pretty sight. So instead we three hung out at home and watched movies, played with toys I managed to dig out and drank coffee....well I drank coffee they didn't. A totally relaxed kind of day but in saying that I really struggled to keep my tiredness and consequently my grumpiness at bay.
And then the sun came out and I managed to get some washing out on the line......ah a sense of normal. I needed that. Jamie spent the afternoon doing a few last loads of bits and pieces and now our house is empty. I am not sure I want to go and see it empty or not. I know I will be sad at seeing the empty rooms. So many memories formed there, parties, family dinners, Christmases, birthdays, three more babies have been added to our family while living there, two of which birthed there. A wedding and loads of dinners with friends. Loads of laughs and many tears. See I just don't know if I can face it. But I also don't want not to have closure. I guess I'll see tomorrow.
I have formed a wee spot in the "dining room" where I can see out the window with a place for my coffee and read my bible. My view is very different now but still it's going to be 'my' spot.
Hey I vacuumed this evening and it literally took me two mins. I think I am in love with teeny spaces...if housework is this easy! My kids for the first time EVER walked to friends houses and home again. What if I get used to town living??!! Eek!
Saturday, September 17, 2016
September's Stories Day 17 - Moving Day
Well here we are.....moved. I haven't said goodbye to our house yet but I guess that will come tomorrow or the next day.
So we have a place to rest our heads and to call home for the next three weeks. While things may not have gone how we thought we are happy. We are blessed beyond belief to be living in my brother-in-laws house....and yes it is small and intimate but we have managed to set up camp in this sweet three bedroom abode. Everyone has a bed.....and it's going to be like camping. Jamie and I are going Japanese style and will have to set up and make our bed every night. An adventure....if the Japanese can do it so can we.
The kids are excited....bearing in mind that most haven't or don't remember ever living in town. So street lights and hearing the traffic and seeing ( and hearing) the train go past the back fence. They are looking forward to biking on the footpath and walking in to town and to friends houses. We will be saving on petrol....yuss!
I don't know why it turned out like it has for this time but I am up for the challenge!
So we have a place to rest our heads and to call home for the next three weeks. While things may not have gone how we thought we are happy. We are blessed beyond belief to be living in my brother-in-laws house....and yes it is small and intimate but we have managed to set up camp in this sweet three bedroom abode. Everyone has a bed.....and it's going to be like camping. Jamie and I are going Japanese style and will have to set up and make our bed every night. An adventure....if the Japanese can do it so can we.
The kids are excited....bearing in mind that most haven't or don't remember ever living in town. So street lights and hearing the traffic and seeing ( and hearing) the train go past the back fence. They are looking forward to biking on the footpath and walking in to town and to friends houses. We will be saving on petrol....yuss!
I don't know why it turned out like it has for this time but I am up for the challenge!
Friday, September 16, 2016
September's Stories Day 16 - Our Last Night
So here we are, our last night EVER in this house. It is feeling very surreal. As I watched the cows head on into the cowshed for their afternoon milking.... I thought to myself that this was the last time ever I would get to see this. I got a little sad then.
There has been a lot of lasts today. But even though it is crazy chaotic with last minute packing and cleaning...things have had to tick over as they normally would too. A Loving Arms connection to be made, a resume to formulate (that is harder than I thought...I mean seriously who likes to talk themselves up), and supermarket run to do. And of course people still need to eat...so food prep needs to be done.
I managed to steal away for some time alone with my bible to talk to God and to read His word...totally convinced that He had something good for me today. And he did! It was so good that I even wrote it out in VIVID (no I hadn't lost it again) on some packing paper and stuck it on to a wall for all of us to see. It was a goodie!
I have had some lovely messages over the last few days, beautiful encouraging words and support from near and a far. It has truly meant so much. Thank you precious people. Thank you to the person who did an emergency drop of chocolate and ice cream also. Comfort food is just the best.
So...No we don't know where we will be this time tomorrow. There I said it. I know that it is hard for some to read that and not worry on our behalf. But is ok. We are ok. I am ok. I said last night that I feel strangely normal and at peace. And I still do. A peace that can only come from God. So thankful.
So what does our last evening look like here...the kids are sleeping in the lounge, we (and Frankie ) are not. There are too many boxes in here for that to happen. Jamie and the older two boys have gone out for the evening and the other kiddies are watching The Jungle Book. We have had Hotdogs for dinner followed by ice cream. I will be enjoying a cold cider with Jamie when he gets home though.
I will do my best to post tomorrow night even if it is short and sweet. Got to keep you posted ah?
Love you all xxx
There has been a lot of lasts today. But even though it is crazy chaotic with last minute packing and cleaning...things have had to tick over as they normally would too. A Loving Arms connection to be made, a resume to formulate (that is harder than I thought...I mean seriously who likes to talk themselves up), and supermarket run to do. And of course people still need to eat...so food prep needs to be done.
I managed to steal away for some time alone with my bible to talk to God and to read His word...totally convinced that He had something good for me today. And he did! It was so good that I even wrote it out in VIVID (no I hadn't lost it again) on some packing paper and stuck it on to a wall for all of us to see. It was a goodie!
I have had some lovely messages over the last few days, beautiful encouraging words and support from near and a far. It has truly meant so much. Thank you precious people. Thank you to the person who did an emergency drop of chocolate and ice cream also. Comfort food is just the best.
So...No we don't know where we will be this time tomorrow. There I said it. I know that it is hard for some to read that and not worry on our behalf. But is ok. We are ok. I am ok. I said last night that I feel strangely normal and at peace. And I still do. A peace that can only come from God. So thankful.
So what does our last evening look like here...the kids are sleeping in the lounge, we (and Frankie ) are not. There are too many boxes in here for that to happen. Jamie and the older two boys have gone out for the evening and the other kiddies are watching The Jungle Book. We have had Hotdogs for dinner followed by ice cream. I will be enjoying a cold cider with Jamie when he gets home though.
I will do my best to post tomorrow night even if it is short and sweet. Got to keep you posted ah?
Love you all xxx
Thursday, September 15, 2016
September's Stories Day 15 - Crazy Lady
Isn't it amazing how such a tiny thing has the massive potential to turn a seemingly normal person into a crazy lady. Yes I am talking about myself. A good vivid is imperative for clear labeling of packed and taped up boxes. But I lost our vivid today...well actually I don't think I lost it but for the life of me I could not find it. I think it was the straw that broke the camels back actually. It turned me into a crazy lady! Ask my kids they will tell you...C R A Z Y! And seeing I had it yesterday it kind of had to be me that put it somewhere. I hunted EVERYWHERE...twice! I ranted and raved...muttered under my breath and not so under my breath....I blame everyone in the house apart from me. Because you know....who actually blames themselves in times like these. I hate losing things at the best of times and will turn the whole house upside down looking for a lost puzzle piece, so you can only imagine the scene that was being played out in my house. CR A Z Y L A D Y!
So for those who have said that I am handling this whole thing really well...I give you permission to retract that statement.
After giving up looking for it and taking myself outside for some self-talk time and prayer. I was resigned to the fact it was gone forever and used a pen instead. AND then Jamie came home and I said "The vivid is gone....I just can't cope anymore!" ( sooooo dramatic) He simply said "Oh its in the bathroom bag." AHHHhhhhhhh. What the hang and who the hang put it in there? Yes I do feel that is definitely something I would of done and therefore probably did do. More muttering under my breath about how much of a dork I am.
Apart from that I actually am feeling strangely at peace. I can't make sense of it. This is such a crazy and impossible situation to be it. Some may even go as far as saying irresponsible. But I feel so calm and this feels so normal.....and that right there can only be God's doing. Because normal people would not be ok with this. God is so good!
Two more nights left!!!
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
September's Stories Day 14 - Standing Strong
If I learnt one thing over the past weekend...well actually I learnt a whole heap of things...but for the sake of today's post I am talking about one thing. Standing strong and standing together.
Ps Charlotte Gambil spoke of "A win for her is a win for you(us)". If one of us succeeds then we all succeed. Doesn't this go against every bit of our cultures beliefs? We (our culture of NZ women) tends to believe if she wins then I must have to lose and of course no one likes to be a loser so (we) tear each other down with our words and our actions or non actions. No No No! This is not the way. There is no finite number of successful people. There is no finite number of successes, not in Gods kingdom. Oh boy isn't that life changing? I certainly got chills listening to her message.
So on the back of that...I figure we all need people in our lives that will continually build us up, kick our butts if needed and constantly speak truth to us even if we want to hear it or not. We need to support, do, act, say, encourage, love our friends and even the people that rub us up the wrong way...and we all have those people in our lives. Because a win for her is a win for all of us.
Today I put out an SOS call for just that kind of support, to friends that I know would pray where they were and pray strong, to pray prayers that would shake the entire universe. Prayers of winners that had my best interest at the centre of their heart. And I felt them. We are so tired, all of us are. I want this part of my journey to be over and I want to lie on the beach somewhere in the sun and just be. Today I felt that perhaps I had a glimpse of what Moses felt like when he asked for help and people came to his aid and upheld him so he could continue on in his calling. Because thats what we are called to do. Because a win for me, is a win for you.
"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset." Exodus 17:12
Ps Charlotte Gambil spoke of "A win for her is a win for you(us)". If one of us succeeds then we all succeed. Doesn't this go against every bit of our cultures beliefs? We (our culture of NZ women) tends to believe if she wins then I must have to lose and of course no one likes to be a loser so (we) tear each other down with our words and our actions or non actions. No No No! This is not the way. There is no finite number of successful people. There is no finite number of successes, not in Gods kingdom. Oh boy isn't that life changing? I certainly got chills listening to her message.
So on the back of that...I figure we all need people in our lives that will continually build us up, kick our butts if needed and constantly speak truth to us even if we want to hear it or not. We need to support, do, act, say, encourage, love our friends and even the people that rub us up the wrong way...and we all have those people in our lives. Because a win for her is a win for all of us.
Today I put out an SOS call for just that kind of support, to friends that I know would pray where they were and pray strong, to pray prayers that would shake the entire universe. Prayers of winners that had my best interest at the centre of their heart. And I felt them. We are so tired, all of us are. I want this part of my journey to be over and I want to lie on the beach somewhere in the sun and just be. Today I felt that perhaps I had a glimpse of what Moses felt like when he asked for help and people came to his aid and upheld him so he could continue on in his calling. Because thats what we are called to do. Because a win for me, is a win for you.
"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset." Exodus 17:12
September's Stories Day 13 - Life by Faith
Firewood. A seemingly simple thing. A necessity for survival in the damp and grey Waikato winter. An absolute necessity if you live in a near 100 year old drafty villa like we do. As you know we had the date of the 10th September to move out but we were offered another week to stay in the house while we found a new house. So with the 10th in mind we had worked out and stretched out our firewood consumption to last until the 10th. We did very well at making it last. So come yesterday morning we were out....completely out, like nothing, zilch, nil. Out. Now I HATE being cold and this house is cold. We usually have the fire going until October to take the chill off the air. And seeing its only the middle of September I knew we were going to struggle. We needed firewood and we needed it that day.
So we prayed. Jamie and I stood in the middle of the kitchen with the kids running around us and trying to climb up our legs, faced each other, held hands, bowed our heads and prayed. We prayed for our new house to be revealed to us (soon please), for our day, for our family and we prayed for firewood. I think my words were..."Please God we need firewood, and we need it today, we have none and I HATE being cold." I left this request in God's hands, and for him to sort out because we did not have the resources to supply firewood for ourselves. Jamie then took himself off to work and as usual we told no one of our need for firewood.
I spent most of yesterday, listening to worship music up loud, like really loud and singing at the top of my voice. That afternoon I started to walk down the hallway singing "Be enthroned upon the praises of a thousand generation..."and I notice a man walking up the steps as the front door was open. Of course I sheepishly greeted him a little embarrassed. After saying hello he simply said "Yeah I have some firewood for you...where do you want it?". As you can imagine I was a little gob-smacked and speechless and after I found my voice I directed him to where to put it. It wasn't a huge amount but more than enough to get us through the next week and maybe even some left over to leave for our land lord. What an answer to prayer! A little miracle to say remind us that He has us in the palm of His hand and that He is the one that supplies all our needs when we ask in prayer and in agreement. My God is an awesome God. We feel truly blessed. God is truly good.
So we prayed. Jamie and I stood in the middle of the kitchen with the kids running around us and trying to climb up our legs, faced each other, held hands, bowed our heads and prayed. We prayed for our new house to be revealed to us (soon please), for our day, for our family and we prayed for firewood. I think my words were..."Please God we need firewood, and we need it today, we have none and I HATE being cold." I left this request in God's hands, and for him to sort out because we did not have the resources to supply firewood for ourselves. Jamie then took himself off to work and as usual we told no one of our need for firewood.
I spent most of yesterday, listening to worship music up loud, like really loud and singing at the top of my voice. That afternoon I started to walk down the hallway singing "Be enthroned upon the praises of a thousand generation..."and I notice a man walking up the steps as the front door was open. Of course I sheepishly greeted him a little embarrassed. After saying hello he simply said "Yeah I have some firewood for you...where do you want it?". As you can imagine I was a little gob-smacked and speechless and after I found my voice I directed him to where to put it. It wasn't a huge amount but more than enough to get us through the next week and maybe even some left over to leave for our land lord. What an answer to prayer! A little miracle to say remind us that He has us in the palm of His hand and that He is the one that supplies all our needs when we ask in prayer and in agreement. My God is an awesome God. We feel truly blessed. God is truly good.
Monday, September 12, 2016
September's Stories Day 12 - Bedtime Around Here
I took these photos this evening....I love them. Thomas (11) and Frankie ( nearly 2) just watching a bit of evening TV before bed tonight. Yes I use the TV shamelessly to keep the little people quiet and entertained as I get them ready and put them to bed when Jamie is out. I have tried not to but I would still be doing the bedtime thing at 10pm if I didn't. Jesse is first, we snuggle and chat in his bed. He has drinks and needs to pee then we snuggle some more. I say I love him and he tells me we are 'best teams'. I love being best teams with him. Frankie is second...we too have snuggles and kisses in her bed. I sometime sing and she tells me to shhh. I hold her hand and she puts her other hand in my top. She drifts off to sleep like that. The other two girls are next....the usual toilet teeth and bed. Tonight I lay on her bed and read the first two chapter of Esther to them and I always have to ask them questions. Again drinks, cuddles, kisses and prayers. We aren't really governed by time for our bedtime just a "there abouts" kind of deal. Again it would be stress city if we did and tried to work to a clock...especially when I am home alone!!
The boys are next at some stage whenever they get themselves organised. We are very loose on the boys bed time although we do keep an eye on Thomas has he gets tired faster than the others and doesn't cope very well with it. The older boys are able to read, do sudukos or whatever... more or less until they are tired. I LOVE it when they read!
So there you have it...a wee little glimpse into our home and a heartwarming pic of a big brother and litttlest sister!
Sunday, September 11, 2016
September Stories Day 11 - And Home
I got back really late last night, so late in fact that everyone was snoring their heads off. I was so tired and I crept into bed hoping to fall straight to sleep. What happened? Can you guess? Frankie woke up in which I as secretly pleased about because I got to crawl into bed and have gorgeous snuggly cuddles with her. As she fell asleep the more awake I became until I was wired!! So awake and full of everything and all the information that I was fed over the past three days that I didn't fall asleep until after three thirty! Boy I am tired today!
Its truly hard to process everything and I find myself wanting to share everything with Jamie but I don't even know where to start and how to describe or let him into the experience. I don't want anything to get lost in translation or watered down when I tell him. I think this may take a good week or so of telling him tidbits as I chew them over in my head and chat with him over the next few days.
So here we are again.....Sunday night having a traditional Sunday night dinner...cheese on toast. This is definitely going to be our last week in this house. No we still don't know where we are moving too but I will most definitely let you know when it is reveal to us. I am excited!!
Enjoy your evening!!
Its truly hard to process everything and I find myself wanting to share everything with Jamie but I don't even know where to start and how to describe or let him into the experience. I don't want anything to get lost in translation or watered down when I tell him. I think this may take a good week or so of telling him tidbits as I chew them over in my head and chat with him over the next few days.
So here we are again.....Sunday night having a traditional Sunday night dinner...cheese on toast. This is definitely going to be our last week in this house. No we still don't know where we are moving too but I will most definitely let you know when it is reveal to us. I am excited!!
Enjoy your evening!!
Saturday, September 10, 2016
September's Stories Day 10 - Ready
Wow....just wow! Three days, 11 sessions of pure heart and power of God's word injected straight from His being into ours. Just when I thought I couldn't take in anymore, cry anymore tears and be in awe anymore...boom....another wave comes at me and again knocks me off my feet.
Confirm confirm confirm. Empower empower empower.
Go Forth
You are strong.
You are fierce.
You are powerful.
You are significant.
You are commissioned.
You are needed.
You are loved.
So blessed to have done this weekend with these girls ( and Denise) ......loved being on this journey and in this story with you.
That's it for tonight...typing in the car, trying not to get carsick because I am typing.
Love you xx
Confirm confirm confirm. Empower empower empower.
Go Forth
You are strong.
You are fierce.
You are powerful.
You are significant.
You are commissioned.
You are needed.
You are loved.
So blessed to have done this weekend with these girls ( and Denise) ......loved being on this journey and in this story with you.
That's it for tonight...typing in the car, trying not to get carsick because I am typing.
Love you xx
Friday, September 9, 2016
September's Stories Day 9 - Conference
Truly I have no words about what I have experienced today. I have blubbered my way through the last session like actually blubbered and may or may not with snot. Sobbed. But I wasn't the only one.
Hanging out for dinner where we had food and time to debrief and reflect on the days teachings. I love getting my spirit fed.
The blessing is also being with the women that are experiencing this with. Beautiful fierce and precious!
Tell you more when I get home!
Hanging out for dinner where we had food and time to debrief and reflect on the days teachings. I love getting my spirit fed.
The blessing is also being with the women that are experiencing this with. Beautiful fierce and precious!
Tell you more when I get home!
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
September's Stories Day 8 - The Best Yes
I am off shortly (yay!) so I thought that I would quickly squeeze in today's blog so I don't have to think about doing it late tonight. Because I am sure I will be too busy hanging out with excellent and gorgeous women talking and eating. You know because thats what women do. I managed to squeeze in a teleconference this morning which is always a bit nerve-wracking when I am home alone with the kids. I am petrified that there will be an all out war while I am on the phone and my cover of the "super multi-tasking" mum will be blown. Today's one was longer than usual which so I am sure the kids ate me out of house and home.
Anyway here is my current read. The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst. It was given to me by a gorgeous friend. Oh My...I am only three chapter in and I am already loving it. I can relate to EVERY single thing that Lysa talks about. Feeling stretched, not wanting to let anyone down, wanting to do everything but not..... at the same time, all the while feeling overwhelmed and undernourished. Can you relate to any of that? Chapter 3, I am pretty sure Lysa crawled into my head and wrote that chapter about the craziness that was in my head and my secret thoughts and desires.
"God had given me a gift of this time. My time. My choice My approach. Your time, Your choice, Your approach. What's that soul thing for you, that God-honouring thing that keeps slipping away because there's been no time to set aside and actually start?" Pg 27 The Best Yes - Lysa Terkeurst
Just that very paragraph has had a profound effect on me and has given me the confidence and the permission to start to set aside time to do my 'soul thing'.
So while I am only on the Chapter 3 I am already loving it. Totally recommending so far!!
See ya tomorrow. I am sure I'll have load to write about. xx
Anyway here is my current read. The Best Yes by Lysa Terkeurst. It was given to me by a gorgeous friend. Oh My...I am only three chapter in and I am already loving it. I can relate to EVERY single thing that Lysa talks about. Feeling stretched, not wanting to let anyone down, wanting to do everything but not..... at the same time, all the while feeling overwhelmed and undernourished. Can you relate to any of that? Chapter 3, I am pretty sure Lysa crawled into my head and wrote that chapter about the craziness that was in my head and my secret thoughts and desires.
"God had given me a gift of this time. My time. My choice My approach. Your time, Your choice, Your approach. What's that soul thing for you, that God-honouring thing that keeps slipping away because there's been no time to set aside and actually start?" Pg 27 The Best Yes - Lysa Terkeurst
Just that very paragraph has had a profound effect on me and has given me the confidence and the permission to start to set aside time to do my 'soul thing'.
So while I am only on the Chapter 3 I am already loving it. Totally recommending so far!!
See ya tomorrow. I am sure I'll have load to write about. xx
September's Stories Day 7 - Through the Ringer
Wow, I feel like I have been put through the ringer and then back through again for good measure. Some say that faith is for the weak hearted...I can testifiy that that is not the case at all. Having faith and walking it out is definitely NOT for the faint-hearted. If you have been following along you will no that a few months ago we were given notice and that our landlord is wanting to move back into this house. The 10th Sept was the date that was given to us and that is the date that we have been working towards and the date that we have been preparing to move out. You will also know that we have not yet had our new house revealed to us. You will also know that I recently weaned Frankie so I could go away for two nights to a women's conference with a group of lovely lady friends. A conference that has been booked since this time last year.
At the beginning of the week I had resigned to the fact that I would not be going as I really couldn't stomach leaving my family during this crucial time. In-spite being told by numerous people I should still go, I just thought I wouldn't be going. I had already made plans and had given myself a deadline which was 4pm today that if nothing had changed I wouldn't go. Well things did change. Our landlord offered one more week in this house which meant among other things...that I was free without worrying about my family....to go away this weekend. Sistas '16 here I come!
I have cried and blubbered so much today that I have given myself a whopping headache and a scratchy throat. I will sleep well tonight (I hope). God does really care about the things you care about, actually even more so. So while we still don't know where we are living in now 10 days time...I can go away and know that my family is right where they are suppose to be, I am not missing out on anything back at home...you know things like moving.... and I get to spend over two days of being fed by amazing speakers and hanging out with four excellent women! Thank you GOD!
At the beginning of the week I had resigned to the fact that I would not be going as I really couldn't stomach leaving my family during this crucial time. In-spite being told by numerous people I should still go, I just thought I wouldn't be going. I had already made plans and had given myself a deadline which was 4pm today that if nothing had changed I wouldn't go. Well things did change. Our landlord offered one more week in this house which meant among other things...that I was free without worrying about my family....to go away this weekend. Sistas '16 here I come!
I have cried and blubbered so much today that I have given myself a whopping headache and a scratchy throat. I will sleep well tonight (I hope). God does really care about the things you care about, actually even more so. So while we still don't know where we are living in now 10 days time...I can go away and know that my family is right where they are suppose to be, I am not missing out on anything back at home...you know things like moving.... and I get to spend over two days of being fed by amazing speakers and hanging out with four excellent women! Thank you GOD!
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
September's Stories Day 6 - Cookies
I had this really awesome post already written in my head and now its 910pm and I am tired. So it might have to wait for another day.
I don't know about you but we bake a lot in this house, at least once a day sometimes two...depending on how much I am able to police the biscuit tins.
Yesterday I made a batch of Coconut Stacks which were so good they literally just disappeared. Casey loved them so much that he VOLUNTARILY made another batch that afternoon. I had to use capitals because he hates baking so they must of been good.
I find baking quite comforting and grounding. In a very strange time I need that normalcy. Here is my take on Jam Biscuits but instead I used Nutella. I wonder how long they will last.
Sorry not too much to say tonight but I'll leave you with a pic instead.
Ciao xx
I don't know about you but we bake a lot in this house, at least once a day sometimes two...depending on how much I am able to police the biscuit tins.
Yesterday I made a batch of Coconut Stacks which were so good they literally just disappeared. Casey loved them so much that he VOLUNTARILY made another batch that afternoon. I had to use capitals because he hates baking so they must of been good.
I find baking quite comforting and grounding. In a very strange time I need that normalcy. Here is my take on Jam Biscuits but instead I used Nutella. I wonder how long they will last.
Sorry not too much to say tonight but I'll leave you with a pic instead.
Ciao xx
Monday, September 5, 2016
September's Stories Day 5 - Time with Him
Creating quiet space for me to spend five mins alone is near impossible, gee I can't even go to the bathroom in peace. So trying to carve out 20 mins for peace and time in the Word is a mission. And seeing everything is packed away this was where it was at today. I chose sunny-ish spot in our bedroom, made a deal with Casey (15) to be 'it' for the little people for 20 mins so I can refocus and re-nourish myself in the Word, grabbed a coffee and closed the bedroom door. I am not going to even attempt to make light of what I am going through at the moment. Its tough, its boring and its frustrating. I needed this time.
So with my coffee in hand, my pillows off my bed I lay on my stomach and immersed myself in the His Word. And in the 20mins, peace enveloped me and I was fed straight out of 1 Chronicles 17. Yes I know what you were thinking ..."Chronicles???"...but its not all mile long genealogies there is some good stuff in there.
I try and get time alone in the morning before everyone else gets up. But as many of you know little people tend to get up early and even if you try and wake up before them (as crazy as that sounds) they seem to just know when mum is awake and wake up then too. So yes I guess it has come to bribery and deal making just so I can get some time alone because I certainly DO NOT want to have to get up at 5am. That is definitely not lady-like hours at all!
So with my coffee in hand, my pillows off my bed I lay on my stomach and immersed myself in the His Word. And in the 20mins, peace enveloped me and I was fed straight out of 1 Chronicles 17. Yes I know what you were thinking ..."Chronicles???"...but its not all mile long genealogies there is some good stuff in there.
I try and get time alone in the morning before everyone else gets up. But as many of you know little people tend to get up early and even if you try and wake up before them (as crazy as that sounds) they seem to just know when mum is awake and wake up then too. So yes I guess it has come to bribery and deal making just so I can get some time alone because I certainly DO NOT want to have to get up at 5am. That is definitely not lady-like hours at all!
Sunday, September 4, 2016
September's Stories Day 4 - Dad's Day
Father's Day started off quite early this morning....like 637am to be exact. That's the time that Frankie rolled over and pull my head to turn towards her and said "Mamma, wake up!" Fortunately she soon spotted Dad and crawled over me (after kneeing me in the eyeball) and went to jump all over him. We are all sleeping in the lounge now as everything else is packed up. So all in all a great start to Father's Day while the kids all crawled and jumped over Jamie I could roll over and have some more moments to collect all my pieces before I started the day.
Isn't Father's Day all about the food? Well it is around here. Pancake Breakfast. A large family calls for a triple batch of Pancakes so that everyone can get their fill. Lollies and Chocolates around the table for afternoon tea as we sat and remember all the really cool things that have happened in this house. And pizza for dinner. Kids have their own pizza and Jamie and I have a special gormet one, with things like chorizo and roasted capsicum on it. Delicious.
Jamie, I couldn't have asked for a better man to father and be a dad to our children. You are truly amazing. I hope our boys learn to "dad" from you and our girls will know what a great man looks like. You are the best. Plus you are pretty hot too!
Happy Father's Day to all you Dads ROCKING their kids world with awesomeness!
Isn't Father's Day all about the food? Well it is around here. Pancake Breakfast. A large family calls for a triple batch of Pancakes so that everyone can get their fill. Lollies and Chocolates around the table for afternoon tea as we sat and remember all the really cool things that have happened in this house. And pizza for dinner. Kids have their own pizza and Jamie and I have a special gormet one, with things like chorizo and roasted capsicum on it. Delicious.
Jamie, I couldn't have asked for a better man to father and be a dad to our children. You are truly amazing. I hope our boys learn to "dad" from you and our girls will know what a great man looks like. You are the best. Plus you are pretty hot too!
Happy Father's Day to all you Dads ROCKING their kids world with awesomeness!
Saturday, September 3, 2016
September's Stories Day 3 - A Birthing Day
Today, just a day before his due date Matthias Jamie Raine was born. A nephew. A whole 9lb 9oz of pure gorgeous pink squidgy-ness Obviously already wanting to make his mark on the world and surprising everyone most of all his mother by speedily arriving when no one was really ready for him just yet.
I missed his arrival by like 5 mins but then most of everyone else missed it too including the midwife. Seriously dude just half an hour longer and we all would of been there! But his mama did a totally ROCKSTAR job by bringing him into the world. Congratulations Dave and Tiff......Tiff you are AMAZING and Dave you did a pretty awesome job too! Babies wait for no one!
Birth ....its a family thing for us. Not only are new members of welcomed into the world by a room full of love but the mama-to-be is loved upon and mothered in this sacred and precious time. We love on her for she is working hard.
The Birthing Space.....just like in the past and traditional cultures where its a time of gathering, celebration and support. Its a space filled with love, wisdom, honor, and respect. Experience, generations and love. Its truly an honor to be a part of. An honor because you are sharing the one of the most intimate and precious, raw yet sacred moments of the mothers story. Where not only are babies are born but so to are mothers, whether it be a brand new mother or a mother of four. Every birth of a baby is too a birth of a mother (and father and family).
I feel sad that a lot of our western culture has lost this. For most its deemed weird that you have other "people" at the birth of your baby. yet its not weird to have perhaps half a dozen unknown medical staff in the room and maybe even a cleaner vacuuming the corridor outside your room. I truly believe women need other women in their birthing space, to mother them, to know them and to understand. The art of truly supporting women in the birth space is being lost but to see in action is a truly beautiful and wonderous thing. A blessing. A privilege.
This is not about the where or how you birth. Its about support and respect. About mothering the mother, for she is doing big important work.
I missed his arrival by like 5 mins but then most of everyone else missed it too including the midwife. Seriously dude just half an hour longer and we all would of been there! But his mama did a totally ROCKSTAR job by bringing him into the world. Congratulations Dave and Tiff......Tiff you are AMAZING and Dave you did a pretty awesome job too! Babies wait for no one!
Birth ....its a family thing for us. Not only are new members of welcomed into the world by a room full of love but the mama-to-be is loved upon and mothered in this sacred and precious time. We love on her for she is working hard.
The Birthing Space.....just like in the past and traditional cultures where its a time of gathering, celebration and support. Its a space filled with love, wisdom, honor, and respect. Experience, generations and love. Its truly an honor to be a part of. An honor because you are sharing the one of the most intimate and precious, raw yet sacred moments of the mothers story. Where not only are babies are born but so to are mothers, whether it be a brand new mother or a mother of four. Every birth of a baby is too a birth of a mother (and father and family).
I feel sad that a lot of our western culture has lost this. For most its deemed weird that you have other "people" at the birth of your baby. yet its not weird to have perhaps half a dozen unknown medical staff in the room and maybe even a cleaner vacuuming the corridor outside your room. I truly believe women need other women in their birthing space, to mother them, to know them and to understand. The art of truly supporting women in the birth space is being lost but to see in action is a truly beautiful and wonderous thing. A blessing. A privilege.
This is not about the where or how you birth. Its about support and respect. About mothering the mother, for she is doing big important work.
 |
| Happy Birthday Matthias Jamie Raine! |
Thursday, September 1, 2016
September's Stories Day 2 - Eight Years Ago
Eight years. Its a long time. Eight years ago I was only 13 weeks pregnant with Sophie, our fifth child. I now have seven children and my baby is two months shy of turning 2. I will always remember this day for two things happened. Two life changing things.
Firstly, eight years ago today my dad died. Only three months from turning 70. He suffered a stroke only four days prior and passed away with my sister by his side eight years ago today. I am glad he didn't survive it.... not because I wanted him to die. But because he would of hated with every ounce of his being, living with major disabilities that a stroke of that size would of left him with. He would of hated being dependent on anybody let of alone the possibility of living in a care facility. He was a stoic and independent man. The person that taught me to think for myself and to question mainstream thinking on topics such as health, which in turn led on to other areas such as birth, education and parenting. He is missed.
Secondly, eight years ago today we moved into this house. I remember clearly one morning a few weeks earlier, lying on the cold kitchen floor with bad morning sickness, crying to Jamie about how I wanted to move into the country where we had space for the kids and could have some chickens and the vege garden. That VERY afternoon this house was advertised in the paper and Jamie rang to make inquiries and basically it was ours if we wanted it. A true answer to prayer. I was not here for the move for I had been called home to be with Dad and my family. Our wonderful church family helped Jamie and the kids packed up, move and unpack into here. I came home to a new home with everything all unpacked. I was home two hours before I got the call that Dad had died. What a day!
And here we are, pretty much all packed up and ready to go....waiting. Waiting for the new chapter, our new era to begin. Waiting for our new home. We will miss this house for it has been good to us.
Firstly, eight years ago today my dad died. Only three months from turning 70. He suffered a stroke only four days prior and passed away with my sister by his side eight years ago today. I am glad he didn't survive it.... not because I wanted him to die. But because he would of hated with every ounce of his being, living with major disabilities that a stroke of that size would of left him with. He would of hated being dependent on anybody let of alone the possibility of living in a care facility. He was a stoic and independent man. The person that taught me to think for myself and to question mainstream thinking on topics such as health, which in turn led on to other areas such as birth, education and parenting. He is missed.
Secondly, eight years ago today we moved into this house. I remember clearly one morning a few weeks earlier, lying on the cold kitchen floor with bad morning sickness, crying to Jamie about how I wanted to move into the country where we had space for the kids and could have some chickens and the vege garden. That VERY afternoon this house was advertised in the paper and Jamie rang to make inquiries and basically it was ours if we wanted it. A true answer to prayer. I was not here for the move for I had been called home to be with Dad and my family. Our wonderful church family helped Jamie and the kids packed up, move and unpack into here. I came home to a new home with everything all unpacked. I was home two hours before I got the call that Dad had died. What a day!
And here we are, pretty much all packed up and ready to go....waiting. Waiting for the new chapter, our new era to begin. Waiting for our new home. We will miss this house for it has been good to us.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)