A day out.

For the first time since 2019 we have our annual Home Show. It is held at Jeff's Shed and in the past has had some good exhibits. We (as did all of Melbourne, methinks) had free tickets so off we went.

This year wasn't quite the same but we have had Covid, businesses have suffered and this was the first weekend with something on since we have been released from house arrest government restrictions. It was packed even though ticket allocations were supposed to distribute numbers across the day.

There were a lot (and I mean A LOT) of massage chairs all full of punters. I guess they had to fill the space with something.

There were a lot of kids that I felt so sorry for because it is not a kid friendly event. All they would see is a sea of knees.

Double glazing, tiny houses, anything with eco in the name. Gadgets no-one needs (but we buy anyway). Questionable decorating ideas. 

We bought a window cleaning robot to clean the high outside windows (old men don't climb ladders) and a wicking plant pod. Please see comment above re gadgets!

I am hoping the planter thingy will let me grow veges without the devastation caused by bugs and dogs. 

On the way in we drove up St Kilda Rd. I realised I was in Andrew territory and had a stalker's good look at the high rise blocks to see if I recognised any landmarks. It made me realise how many buildings I had assumed were commercial were, in fact, residential.

On the way home we drove back through South Melbourne and did a reminiscent tour of places Himself remembered from living there in the 50s and 60s.

Then through to Middle Park, St Kilda and down by the bay to Frankston then home. It was windy and the bay was whipped into lots of white caps. A lovely drive.

Himself has now gone for pizza.

A lovely Saturday.

Nearly there

 

There was a moment of panic when the really long piece hadn't been cut properly but the stone mason was able to recut on site. It looks fantastic. The tiles will go up next week and then the appliances can be installed. Then the fun bit of putting everything back and finding spots for all my stuff.

Today I was informed that Sally is in fact married to Ron Beasley from Harry Potter. They have a daughter who was born 2 weeks ago and who will be 1 on Sunday as every Sunday is her birthday. Ron is at home looking after her (we don't know her name because Ron named her) because Sally didn't book her into Sparkles when she went back to work. 

I need a drink.

Voice from the backseat.

We are back to after school pickups.

As we were driving to get ice-cream a small voice said "Granny, are you OK? You seem a bit down. Not all the way down to the ground but a bit sad. Are you tired?"

Observant kid and somewhat empathetic.

"Granny, are angels real?" Ummmmmm. "Mummy says they are." Well, if Mummy says they are, they must be.

"Granny, when I laugh I snort like you do. Mummy says snorting is gross." Thanks, kid.

Tomorrow afternoon we are going to the shops to buy chocolate and then coming here for some special time. Apparently.

I came home to this. Bloody cat.

Dammit

I had my car serviced today. Turns out I have slow leak in one of my tyres caused by a puncture that is too close the tyre wall to repair. Whatever that means. I need a new tyre on a 12 month old vehicle. 

K was going to pick me up but she had family and health issues so I opted to wander around the shops. C rang and said she was coming to get me and take me to the yarn coffee shop. She did and I bought yarn and a hook to crochet a cardigan (I'd left my knitting at home). I started the cardigan but had to pull it out (frog it for those who know the terminology) as my count was out and I remembered that I always go a hook size up as I am a tight crocheter. I now have an extra hook I didn't need! It was a lovely catch up with C and J, though. And my car took longer so it would have been a very long stroll in a shopping centre that has a definite use by time limit.

Himself agreed that my idea for the microwave was good. We went out to Ikea and bought the microwave and the extra drawer panel. As we were leaving I mentioned that the specs said it needed a 16amp fuse. Whatever that means. Apparently it means a lot. We had to return the unit to Ikea as the sparky said it wasn't possible to rewire the kitchen to suit.

I think I have found a microwave from Appliances Online that is cheaper and will fit the bill. Although after my last debacle I'm not holding my breath!

Tuesday twitterings

As you may remember I have to play "the looking for work until I reach pension age" game.

This involves regular meetings with my job provider. Today I finally felt my latest one heard me after my last appointment with her when I was really spaced out coming off my previous anti-depressant. She suggested I apply for an exemption which will give me some reprieve from job searching - no guarantee I will get it as Centrelink are very picky (her words). Regardless, from now on we will have phone appointments and I will keep applying for jobs and hope like crazy nobody wants to employ me. It is a pain but it is better than many countries. 

I do think the system could somehow take into account people in my situation and I am sure there are many in my age group. Women who married someone a bit older and therefore don't qualify for the age pension when the partner does. The only option at the moment is the dole. I think we are the last of the generation where women often didn't return to work after having kids so it's not as if they would be setting a long term precedent. 

When I got home from the appointment I applied for 7 jobs. 

Our microwave is still on backorder at Ikea. I had a brainwave which would involve a bigger microwave (in stock) and some fiddling around with drawer fronts. I think it would work. Himself has his doubts. I wonder if that is because it was MY brainwave and what would I know!

Tomorrow my car gets its first annual service. I have been given a list of things to mention (see above comment re Himself). K will pick me up and we will have a pottery morning of coffee and craft. 

Brother and fave sister in law have arrived in Italy. He sent an email full of optimism and excitement. I wish I could talk to her. I feel she might have a different perspective.

At least she knows where she is. 

ANZAC Day

Once upon a time this was arguably the most solemn day in the Australian (and New Zealand) calendar. 

It commemorates those who gave their lives to fight for our country (not all of them had to die to give their life). And if not our actual country, our freedom. As dictated by those in power. 

Andrew has a link to a clip of the song that for many of us, epitomises the Vietnam war from an Australian perspective. Please go and watch the clip. The introduction says it all and the images that accompany the song should break your heart. They were so young.

I am old enough to remember being at school when the lottery was drawn to see who would be sent next. Fortunately the war ended shortly after. Himself is old enough to have been conscripted had his number come up. Friends of his were less fortunate. I doubt anyone who went came back the same. 

This was a very unpopular war and for a long time the veterans were treated appalling by the government and society as well. People hurled abuse at and turned their backs. It took a long time for this attitude to change. No wonder so many of the poor bastards suffer from PTSD. 

Obviously ANZAC day is about all the wars that this country has fought in from the second Boer war through to the current day and the awful thing is that we will keep commemorating our diggers into the future as there is no end to the evil that creates the need for war.

I just pray that we never again need to force men and women to join the armed services. And I give thanks to those who choose to join to keep us safe.

I got nothing

So you get this. It really tickled my warped sense of humour.

I must stop sitting up past midnight watching stuff I've already seen.

Family

We had a lovely evening last night.

We went to one of our old haunts for dinner and it was delicious. We invested money in the pokies and broke even. (Had we cashed in sooner we would have been ahead but that was on the first spin and that wasn't going to happen).

We came home and shared a bottle of champagne with some cheese and biscuits and watched the entire first season of "Line of Duty" (we have seen it before) until 1.30 this morning.

Needless to say we were a bit late getting up but managed to get to the Langy pub in time to catch up with the Queensland mob, Three and his lot and One and his. It was a great day. It would have been perfect if Two could have made it but some things just can't be. We will see him in June.

Stepson turns 50 next March so we are all planning a trip to Brisbane then.

I have just got off the phone from a long chat with One. We don't catch up enough. 

A cheese platter for dinner with another bottle of bubbles. 

Life is pretty good at the moment.

45 years

22nd April 1977 Himself and I were married. Many didn't even give us a year but here we are 45 years later. We have had our ups and downs but have muddled through. 

Sometimes we say we were just too lazy to leave but the truth is we can't imagine life without each other.. He drives me up the wall at times (as I do him) but he is my best friend and the thought of life without him terrifies me.

Our three sons are our greatest achievements. They have grown into magnificent young men with families of their own. I am so proud of how they treat their wives and kids and they all have an excellent work ethic. Even if some of this is from growing up and swearing not to be like us, I don't mind! We all swear not to be like our parents in one way or another and then go on to make our own mistakes with our kids. I know I did.

Tonight we are going out to dinner to a pub we used to go to when we lived in Bonbeach. I was going to try somewhere new but didn't want to take the chance and we are going to our local for lunch tomorrow. Sadly, Langwarrin is sadly lacking in decent eateries. Actually, any eateries!

Himself has bought a bottle of champagne to celebrate. I think we deserve it.

Alice

 She was dropped off at 7.45.

Jinx takes her job as Alice's guard dog very seriously.

She had a bottle and pouch of pureed fruit. Then she had a BIG poo

After a change and a sleep we got ready for a walk with the dogs

Not quite big enough for the swing!

That tired her out and she had another sleep. I left the pram at the front door so she could get some fresh air. Our front door is a way from the street, the dogs were there and I could watch her from where I was weaving.

When she woke up we played and she had another bottle. She started to show signs of tiredness so I put her down again and lay with her to help her settle. Jinx kept watch.

She had over 2 hours sleep and woke up so happy.

She had a third bottle and was still hungry so I gave her another pouch that mum had packed. I swear the kid gagged! She was obviously wanting to eat but kept spitting and gagging. I gave up and gave her a rusk. Even Murphy wouldn't eat the baby food so I guess that says it all.

Daddy arrived to a somewhat grumpy baby who was more than ready to go home and have a decent meal. 

Granny is now having a well earned glass of bubbles. Himself finished painting the kitchen/family room.

Weary

Not much happening today. I had a good night's sleep. Went and had my skin check which was all good. 

Himself felt like a hamburger for lunch so that's what we had and then I was overtaken by an attack of the wearies. Put my head down on the bed with a cat and a dog and was fast asleep when my 90 year old aunt rang. I had called her on my way back from the skin clinic and left a message saying not to call as I would call her back. An hour an a bit later we finished the call. She was very happy to have had a chat. She is lonely and slowing down but still loves a natter about politics (hates Anthony Abalone), the royal family (Harry should be beheaded for treason), people I have never met, what she will have for supper (Sao biscuits, butter, caramalised onion, cheese and tomato - in case you were wondering), her favourite bubbles (Brown Brothers) and then we have the same conversations all over again hence the long phone call!

Before I succumbed to the call of my bed I had a call from Three asking if we can have Alice tomorrow. She has conjunctivitis and daycare won't take her. Amy has no paid leave left and work told Three he couldn't have time off as they are short staffed (because they aren't replacing the people that are leaving in droves). We are the last resort. So tomorrow will be spent looking after a 7 month old from 7.30 til 6.00. Hopefully we can get a walk in if it doesn't rain and she will have a couple of sleeps. She's not mobile yet so the chaotic house won't be a danger. 

I guess an early night tonight is a good idea.

Tuesday

 

This is a photo of Three when he was about the age that Alice is now. The resemblance is amazing.

It has been a cool, drizzly day. I have not felt the best but managed to unload the heavy dresser and One came over and helped Himself take the top off and move the bottom away from the wall and that has been about the extent of today.

Tomorrow I have my annual skin check and that will be the excitement for my day.

When One was over he said that the other grandmother gets the kids worked up and over-excited which inevitably results in melt downs like we saw yesterday. I still managed to play with them both but we made puppets from a kit I brought them and they were fine. Go Granny!

Easter Monday

Until sometime in the 19th century people celebrated Easter week. It was then reduced to Monday. Even some card carrying Christians don't know that it's not just an excuse for a long weekend but at one time held religious significance. It was on the Monday that women went to the tomb looking for Jesus and an angel appeared and declared "he is risen". This was then followed by many sightings of Jesus by his apostles and others until Ascension Day, 40 days after Easter Sunday, when he, well, ascended into heaven.

We went to Three and Amy's last night for dinner. Oh my lordy lordy it was amazing. Butter chicken that had so much depth of flavour and was so tender and morish. Served with naan, rice and raita. Alice sat at the head of the table and chomped on pieces of naan. It was a battle between falling asleep and her naan. 

Eventually sleep won and Amy put her to bed. About 20 minutes later she woke and appeared most indignant that she was no longer at the table chowing down on naan. She was brought back to the table and was happy to be in company. She is a sociable child, as is her sister. 

Both girls had been given new pyjamas for Easter. Sally was distraught when she spilled water on hers so a quick toss in the dryer and tragedy averted.

Today is Ivy's 3rd birthday so we popped around to One and Eb's. Lily (nearly 5) was having a breakdown because she easily gets overwhelmed and doesn't like Ivy being in the limelight.. She eventually calmed down and we did crafty stuff together which was lovely. We gave Ivy a couple of books which she seemed to really like. You can't beat Bluey*. The other grandparents left when we arrived so we could have time with them. Long story there for another day.

*Bluey is one of those kids cartoon shows that entertains the adults as much as the kids. Google it. It's now a world wide sensation. Go Aussie.

The painting is coming along well. There is a wall that needs to be done which has a very large, heavy dresser in front of it. I suggested painting around said dresser. Oh, foolish woman! Tomorrow I will empty all the glassware, cookware, tableware and other sundry stuff so it can be moved, painted behind and moved back never to be moved again.

Pizza for dinner tonight. My makeshift kitchen was moved for painting purposes and we can't be bothered trying to plug in the microwave!

Easter Sunday

 

Nothing much happening here today. More painting and weaving. The dogs have been walked and we are going to Three and Amy's for dinner.

Did you know that "Easter" comes from the name of a pagan Anglo-Saxon goddess? Her name was Eostre and she was the goddess of Spring and renewal. In other European countries Easter comes from the Jewish Passover. Greeks celebrate Pascha, Italians Pasqua, Danes Paaske and French Paque.  This article explains it and more.

Whatever you believe, I hope you have/had a wonderful Sunday.

Passover, Easter and Ramadan

I was always aware that Easter and Passover (like Christmas and Hanukah) occur at around the same time. This year is a once in a 33 year event where Ramadan occurs at the same time as Easter and Passover. I found this article which is fascinating. All three religions share fasting or other dietary restrictions as well as commitment to religion and renewal of faith. Guess we're not that different after all. I wish more people realised this. 

I finished the practice place mat:

I learned quite a bit and will definitely make a set using fabric (a jelly roll) I bought years ago but will stitch the ends together and fold the strips a bit differently. It was great fun and took no time at all - compared to weaving with yarn. I just need to work out how to finish the ends.

I then warped the loom with different yarns from my stash. It's looking great but the truth will be in the weaving. It could be a disaster. It's all fun and a learning experience.

Stepson and his family are down in Melbourne next weekend. Three was meant to be arranging a catch up but after waiting and waiting and waiting I did what I always do and took charge. We are all going to the Langy pub for lunch on Saturday. I don't think I've ever booked a table for 17 before! It would have been great to have them all here but kitchen.

Speaking of Three, he rang this afternoon to ask if we were still going over to their place for dinner tomorrow night. To be honest I had forgotten but in my defence he has made many such suggestions in the past that never eventuated. He is making butter chicken from the Chin Chin recipe book I gave him as a non-birthday present after he and Amy went there for dinner the night we babysat Sally in March.

The painting is coming along well. Himself is even pleased with the result. He is such a perfectionist that to say that is high praise indeed. Especially as he is the painter!

This tickled my funny bone.

Good Friday

Good Friday comes from the obsolete meaning of the word good - pious or holy. As in when the bible is referred to as "The Good Book" it doesn't mean it's a ripper of a book, nor is it a play on "God's book". It means the holy book.

I am an atheist but I have been devout in my youth and religions fascinate me.

Last night we watched a movie on Netflix called 'The Merger' about a fictional Australian country town, it's ailing football team and refugees. It was a gentle movie with some good laughs and some thought provoking bits. It was filmed in and around Wagga Wagga which has taken in a lot of refugees (as I learned when I was doing my migrant English training).

"Meet me in the Middle of the Air" a song by Paul Kelly (google him, he is an amazing Australian singer-songwriter) featured in the movie and it got me looking for renditions on YouTube. There are heaps but I really liked this one to share with you as it gives a timely reminder of what Melbourne went through during our really strict lockdowns. 

In case you don't recognise it, the song is based on the 23rd psalm and "arranged", if you like, by Paul Kelly.

Today Himself did some more painting in the kitchen. It is looking good. I weaved (wove?) a sample place mat using fabric. It is in the washing machine being wet finished and if it works I will definitely make more. A quick and easy weave.

The cats names today are Maxi (Max for short) and Mini. Because he is a maxi mog and she is a mini mog. I don't think they really care what they are called as long as they get fed frequently. Max growled at Mini today as she was eating some cheese and he wanted in. It was quite funny.

Maundy Thursday

In the Christian church this day is believed to be when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and commanded them to love one another as he had loved them, before Judas betrayed him. Maundy is believed to be a middle English term that comes from the Latin 'mandatum' meaning command. Now you know.

We had a bit of a lie in this morning as there was no need to get up. At one point I had the two dogs on the bed and a cat on me. I swore Jinx was farting but I later came to realise it was Pip (formerly known as Minnie). She can stink out a room, that cat. 

On the subject of names we have changed them again. Johnny is now Squeak. Cos that's what he does. Pip suits her as she is little - like a pip squeak. Oh the fun we have in this house!

We took the dogs down to the park and they had a fantastic run with the dog walker's dogs. 

Then we went to Karingal. I wanted to get some prescription sunglasses as I need the multi focal for distance when driving, middle for reading the console and close for my phone (not when driving, obviously). The lass who served me was hopeless. I know she is new (she is the one that stuffed up my computer glasses last time, I realised) but DON"T call me Lovey. Listen to what I want - SUNGLASSES. And learn the special you are trying to sell me. I chose a pair of $89 frames which, with the lenses, would come in at over $450 less whatever the health fund rebate is. They have a special on where every frame in the shop is no more than $199 and if you buy 2 you get 30% off the entire order. As this chick fluffed and faffed around my anxiety was heading skyward at a great rate. "I just want a pair of prescription sunglasses. How hard can his be?" At which point a lovely woman took me in hand, apologised, explained the special and helped me choose 2 frames. So I get 2 pairs of glasses (sunglasses and normal) with frames that normally sell for over $200 for about $100 more than I would have paid for just the sunnies. 

I went to Big W and managed to get a book for Ivy's 3rd birthday on Monday for $10 less than I would have paid yesterday so I got her another book as well, and then 4 Lindt bunnies in case the grandkids pop over. 

We bought hot cross buns for tomorrow (traditional fruit ones - none of this fancy schmancy stuff for me) and some other bits and pieces and came home. The shops were chaotic.

I now have no reason to leave the house until next week if I choose to hibernate. I have booked a skin check for next Wednesday and my car for a service the week after. I am almost organised.

A day out.

Brother and sister in law are about to head off to Italy for six months. Sister in law really doesn't want to go but Brother thinks all will be wonderful when they get there. They have an apartment in a very old (like hundreds of years old) building that is freezing in winter and stinking hot in summer and prone to mould but it has great views and that's why brother bought it. Sister in Law is hoping that she will feel better once she gets there. Italian plumbing leaves a lot to be desired and a house that has been locked up for well over 2 years could have some surprises. I told her to tell Brother that she needs a couple of days in a hotel to get over the flight while he gets the place ready. 

Anyway, she and I caught up at their local shopping centre (Doncaster for those who know) and we had a lovely time. We had a delicious lunch from Papa Rich and then a chocolatey drink at KoKo Black. On the way back to the car through Myer (department store for those who don't know) I saw this. Not sure if it was a cheeky kid or a rebellious store member but it made me giggle.

While I was out Himself started priming the bulkheads in preparation for painting. I didn't need to be told that while he was up the ladder he had a bout of vertigo and nearly lost his balance. Rules are now that there is to be no ladder climbing unless I'm home. So I can call the ambulance. Sheesh.

We are basically at the Easter long weekend now. It doesn't really affect us but it's nice to know we don't have to go anywhere. I have always loved this long weekend as it's historically been a break where batteries get recharged and the weather promises to be cooler. We have never gone away over holiday periods. I can imagine nothing worse!

He will no doubt paint and I will weave or knit or generally faff around. 

I will leave you with this photo that makes me smile. I think he's settled in nicely.

Tuesday waffling

I found this somewhere and it sort of sums up how I'm feeling about politics and big business at the moment.

Himself went into Carlton for his catch up lunch with old colleagues. He was quite impressed with the train. We worked out it has been probably 4 years since either of us has been on a train. I am just waiting for the call to go and pick him up. He didn't realise he was meant to wear a mask but a nice man at customer service gave him one.

I have given the kitchen a bit of a dust and a tidy up and was listening to Chumbawumba as I did so. I'm sure everyone will know Tubthumping (I get knocked down but I get up again) but they had a lot of really good songs. I didn't realise they were together for 30 years - from 1982 til 2012. 

Their music isn't to everyone's taste but it is varied enough that I'm sure most will find something to like.

This is Amnesia ...

This is El Fusilado based on a true story. I love me a bit of a capella.

Another messy Monday

It seems like forever we have been living in chaos. Mick is still here finishing stuff off although I think the consensus is to leave things as they are for now until Himself has painted the walls and bulkheads and the stone benches go in. Then Mick will come back to lay the tiles on the wall and hang the cupboard doors. 

The dust that has been created is horrible. 

I caught up with J for brunch and a good natter. She lost her dog a week or so ago to diabetes. Very sad as she was only 5. Their house is on the market and she feels the agent has over priced it. I don't know why they went with that agent. If you think of our suburb two agents come to mind and theirs isn't one of them. I know with all the on line real estate is shouldn't make a difference but I think it does. An agent known for selling in the area has people waiting to buy, know what price range is realistic etc. I do know that if ever we sell this place we will go for the agent we bought through as they are masters at getting a really good price. If I was buying I would go with someone else!

Home and a walk with Himself and the dogs which was nice. 

A quiet day tomorrow, I hope. Himself has a lunch with a bunch of people he worked with back in the early '90s. They have kept in touch with semi regular lunches and this is the first since Covid. It will involve a train trip to the city and a walk to Carlton to an Italian restaurant. He will get to see the new underground stations on the Frankston line. 

I hope to weave. 

Summer's last hurrah

We took the dogs for a walk to the park this morning and they had a good play with other dogs. It was bloody hot in the sun and I am sweating as I write this (it's just gone 5pm).

When we first came to Melbourne we lived in a Bayside suburb and made friends with a sailing family. I remember being told that Easter saw the last sailing event as it was the last of the good weather. Regardless of when Easter fell. I guess that makes sense as the moon dictates some of our weather, I believe. Easter is the first full moon after the March equinox. Hopefully after next weekend we will see the cooler autumn weather arrive considering we're halfway through the season!

Himself and I went to the local shopping centre for brunch and so I could buy a specific ball of yarn for K as it's a bit out of her way. Then home to potter. 

I decided to warp the loom with some strong yarn to try making something out of fabric scraps. It's an experiment but I have seen some lovely ideas on the interwebs. When I warp I leave the ball of yarn on the floor as it's easier. Two kittens thought this was a great game. I will have to try to work out a way of containing the yarn - or the cats. The Stig was never interested but he was a bit special. I don't think he knew what cats were meant to do.

Himself has gone to Bunnings. The day ends in 'Y' so it's tradition.

Our great leader has called the Federal election. 41 days of political nonsense and name calling. And then we will have to go through it all again towards the end of the year when we have our State elections. I really have no strong leanings in any direction any more as they all seem as bad as each other.

Nightmares

 

I am not usually a fan of sweet things but I think I could make an exception for this!

Craft was great today. A smaller group but lots of inappropriate chat and lots of laughs.

I gave the cats their own yarn to play with and it is now spread all around the house. Hopefully it will keep them occupied until I can pack my good yarn away. 

A lovely Autumn day. Warmish (24*C) and still. Himself took the dogs for a really good run and walk this morning. I might go with him tomorrow.

Sally had a very disturbing nightmare a few days ago. She was distraught and inconsolable saying that a student with white hair (ie blonde) had gone into her toilet and helped her wipe and she didn't like how it felt and she was told not to tell anyone. We are a bit concerned as this seems an odd thing for a 5 year old to dream about. Amy mentioned it to the teacher and Sally is adamant it was a dream. We will keep an eye on things. Hopefully it is just a dream but, as I said, not what you would expect. She has two weeks off school now which might be what she needs as it was a long first term.

I do love my cats. I really do.

 

I thought I heard the kittens playing chasies as I was lying in bed trying to wake up. They were. With my knitting. It took me 3 and a half hours at craft to untangle and rewind. I ended up cutting it off from the knitting and I only lost a bit that was just too knotted to fix. 

There were only 9 of us today but it was a lovely chatty group. Although most of my "chatter" was swearing volubly under my breath.

The sparky has installed the power points and switches. He managed to get black ones for the black panels and they look awesome. I will have 6 double power points in my kitchen and that doesn't include the ones for the microwave and dishwasher.

Another craft day tomorrow which will be lovely. I might even get to actually knit this time!

Promises

I think I have mentioned before having a conversation with Sally about what happens at granny's stays at granny's and feeling sad that what should be a fun thing can be interpreted in the wrong way.

Her mum is teaching her about good and bad promises and on the way home from school she was talking about pinkie promises which to a 5 year old are inviolable.

This became a discussion between Sally and me about when you can break a promise. She agrees that if you absolutely have to, it's ok. I said that if anyone made her promise to keep a secret about something that makes her feel uncomfortable (and yes, her vocabulary is advanced enough for her to have that concept) she must tell a grown up family member (which got me thinking about how many kids have been abused by family). She reminded me that family aren't always there so she said she would tell a grown up she trusts like a teacher. Bright kid.

It is so sad that our society has so much suspicion and anxiety around children and their safety and innocence. 

It's good that subjects like sexual abuse (and, of course, any abuse) can now be talked about and the stigma is on the perpetrator and not the victim, and children on the whole are listened to. (I realise this isn't the case for every child but on the whole I think we're doing better than we were 50 years ago). 

Online child grooming and the proliferation of child pornography is terrifying. The internet has a lot to answer for. 

*********

The stone mason came today and measured up for our bench top. He is of an Asian background and his English wasn't the best but it was obvious he was taken with the dogs! He will be the one installing the bench so Murphy will have a fan that day.

I set out to take the dogs on a long walk but they were both a bit pully and I really didn't feel like a long walk so we went to the dog park. This is the first time I have taken them by myself and I was a bit concerned but they were great. They played with other dogs and came when I called them. Phew. A huge relief as that was my biggest issue with taking them to that park.

Sally is fundraising for an event to be held tomorrow. She was second highest fundraiser in the whole school. Amy and Pat's work colleagues, Granny and Grumpy and crafty friends responded to the call and she is currently in the lead. We will need to keep a close watch on Olly and hope that he has reached the limit of his family and friends. Competitive much? Clever though, that people are able to see where their kid is on the ladder.

Frankston Adventure!

J, C and I had agreed to meet at the new yarn shop in Frankston - Loom and Spindle.

The main shopping centre in Frankston has paid parking (and masses of it) and street parking is at a premium and only for a short time. I resent paying for parking which is why I rarely go to Frankston. I tried the station car park to no avail, got lost trying to get back into Frankston and after driving around in ever more confusion I found myself at one of the entrances to the shopping centre carpark so in I went. At this stage I had no idea where I was but parked my car and found an exit which I realised was for cars only. Stuff it, I went out anyway and made a point of remembering where I was. 

I walked up the road trying to find Station Street which I assumed would be the street running along the railway line opposite the station. As I turned the corner I remembered that this was, in fact, Young St. Known, among other things, for the number of doctors that provide methadone to addicts and the number of bus stops. It was a tad busy.

I was starting to regret not researching the whole thing more.

A quick google on my phone and I found that Station Street ran off Young St and I was just about there. 

J was already there and we drooled over the yarn. So much lovely stuff and different from other yarn shops which is always refreshing. C arrived and we drooled some more. I picked a couple of cones of cotton to warp some table mats and asked for a beater which makes weaving with certain things easier (I am planning to weave with strips of fabric). The owner had to get said beater from upstairs, the shop was busy and we were hungry so I said I'd be back.

We wandered around a bit and ended up in the food court in the shopping centre for lunch and a natter. As we walked back to Loom and Spindle I noticed a walkway that looked like the other end of one I had passed on the way out of the car park.

It turns out I could have avoided Young Street altogether. I went down the walkway (which was really lovely and had some amazing murals), turned the corner and there was the car park. With a massive sign saying NO PEDESTRIAN ACCESS. Ahead was an entrance to the shopping centre. I memorised where the car park was and figured I could find access to it through the centre. I was back in the food court where we had lunch. The escalator to the car park was just around the corner from the food court. 

I will go back to Loom and Spindle. I will park in the car park (and pay $3 for up to 3 hours of parking) and even have a juice in the food court. I will be within cooee of everything I want. And I won't have to brave Young St again.

I think I can see an improvement already. Or maybe I am just going quietly out of my mind. 

There is nothing like living in chaos to make exercise seem such a wonderful idea! Today I took the dogs on the longest walk so far - OK it's only been 4 days but still. Where we live we have access to quite a bit of green strips - something to do with creeks running through the area which make the green strips quagmire in the winter - and some areas of natural bush. We did a long walk along a green strip and then through some of the bush areas. The risk of snakes is slightly less as we head into Autumn but I keep the dogs on a firm lead and don't stray into the scrub.

I finished the scarf and it and others are in the washing machine. I will take 6 to L'arte and will now make stuff I want to. Like placemats using fabric strips in place of yarn. 

Tomorrow I will catch up with J and C at the newest yarn shop in Frankston. And it has stuff for weaving as well. Excited much?

The best feeling today? Being proven right after telling Himself something about the kitchen install he disagreed with vehemently. I have had an apology but I did get an acknowledgment that I listen!

Mindful Monday

 

Today I made an effort to slow down. It is easier in Autumn as everything seems to be settling down and getting ready for winter. Unlike Summer when things seem so frenetic.

I walked the dogs again. Each day we have walked slightly further. Jinx is a gem on the lead but Murphy pulls and zig zags which is dangerous as I have already tripped over dogs in the past.

The kitchen is slowly coming along. You can still cut the atmosphere with a knife and I feel sorry for Mick. He's an easy going bloke and Himself has two ways of doing things - his way and the wrong way. 

Some years ago we gave Lite n Easy a go. Himself suggested that while we are living in dust covered chaos it might be an idea to order the frozen meals for a month or so. So I have. I ordered 21 dinners and 10 soups. I will have the soups for lunch and we will each have a dinner. They are really good. Stepson's sister in law works for them in Queensland and the owner won't list a meal unless it's been tried by his staff and family and given the thumbs up. If nothing else it will, hopefully, break the cycle of crappy eating I have lapsed back into. We decided on 5 days a week and that gives us a couple of days to go to the pub or get takeaway and it's much cheaper this way. 

I have so many ideas for weaving buzzing around in my brain that I really need to get this damned scarf finished and off the loom. It will go with another two to L'arte and if she sells them well and good but I want to start doing things that bring me joy and cheap acrylic mindless weaving doesn't.

Himself had his annual skin check today. Considering how much time he spends outside without a hat and growing up a fair skinned European in the Australian sun, he has done well. Nothing nasty but keep an eye on the moles which is easy with the annual checks. Note to self: book mine!

bits and pieces

 After a hectic week - albeit a pleasant one - it was nice to just potter today. 

We had a big sleep in which Himself certainly needed. 

I walked the dogs in the misty drizzle that is so Melbourne Autumn. It was lovely.

I sorted through some of the kitchen drawers and tossed a lot of junk. Mainly plastic containers and mismatched lids, and gadgets we thought would be a good idea. Anyone for cubes of rice? 

I faffed around on the internet and found this which I found quite distressing for many reasons:

The cats pretty much have the run of the house if we know the outside doors are closed. Both of them have shown way too much interest in what might be on the other side. I really need to work out a cat run and try to find harnesses that might fit them. Not that I am too confident they will wear them but I can only try.

They have opened the roundabout which means no more detouring to Cranbourne so we can have fish and chips tonight. We are fussy about our fish and chips and there is only one shop we like and it's 10 minutes through the roundabout and half an hour via detour.

Alice ended up in emergency again last night with vomiting and lethargy but is bright as a button this morning. Sally also threw up but her parents are putting that down to an overload of sugar at a birthday party. Or they have both picked up a short lasting gastro bug. 

I am hoping for a quieter week this week. 

And because I know you want to see them ...

Spring forward Fall back

The clocks go back tonight. 

Amy had her first craft market today. It was a local girl guide market and although small the quality on offer was really very good. I don't think a lot of sales were made, sadly. I did my bit!

I bought 20 crystal bracelets to give as gifts and wear myself. At $3 a pop for something you would pay 10 times the price in a fancy new age shop how could I not?

I bought a warming snuggle pack which Amy makes from faux fur and fills with 1.5kgs of wheat and lavender essential oil. Think of a heavy furry heat pack you can stroke as well as wear. I also bought Himself some pocket warmers (again made by Amy) which you pop in the microwave and then put in your pockets to warm your hands when walking in the cold Melbourne winter (apologies to those who know what cold really is).

I also bought this ....

It is the most beautifully made rabbit with bloomers and a dress and apron and ribbons in her ears. Sally squealed with delight when I gave it to her and everyone was so touched to see her excitement. Again, for $40 how could I not?

Alice was her usual lovely self and won the hearts of all who were graced with her smiles - and raspberries.

My car is due for a service and is telling me one of the tyre's pressure is low. Himself added air but it was still complaining. He has taken it for a drive to see if it will rectify. I wonder if this is how they get you to make sure you mortgage your soul pay to get your car serviced regularly.

Dinner tonight is in the hands of the gods. Or the husband. 

I walked the dogs and the smell of wood fires was in the air. Autumn is certainly here. 

Whoops

I didn't get around to posting yesterday. It was a full day with craft, kitchen and sally and then we went out for dinner.

I was woken to the sound of Himself berating the dogs VERY loudly. He hadn't closed the balcony gate and they had gone down during the night and had a dig in the new lawn. Not a lot of damage but enough to tip the old bloke over the edge after a trying week.

Jinx was huddled against the bedroom door trying to get to me. I let them both in and this is where the stayed for quite some time until he had calmed down.

The safety of mum's bed. Even the presence of the cats wasn't going to get them to move.

I have a busy day today but will be back later. I need to keep on track with a post for every day even if it means two on one day!