It doesn’t rain it pours!!

I’m not sure if I have mentioned it or not but our little runabout car (my lovely little first real car) needs a new engine. She is old; been a favourable ol' darl for all these years (she was born in late 1992). Anyway, her lovely new engine is costing a little packet, which is something we hadn’t banked on – especially after the expense we paid for the other car just a week earlier.

So, we have been without the little runabout for around 3 weeks. We have loaned a car here and there from the relies and for the most part have been travelling along as best we can.

As you can probably tell, we haven’t had the best run of luck with our cars of late and that tradition continued today when...

A DAMN COUNCIL BUS RAN INTO MY PARKED CAR!!!

Yes, you read right! My car was parked in a commuter car park at the local busway station, absolutely no where near any bus access. In fact, the only access to the carpark was vehicle access which at the best of times is a tight squeeze for your average vechile. So, when Trevor rang me at lunch time today to say the police had rang him and my car had been taken out by a bus, I laughed. I laughed out loud at the impossibility of such an occurrence. It was so far out I thought we had been taken for a ride by some prankster. I absolutely would not believe it until I had spoken to the police myself and/or seen the damage to my car.

After many phone calls, it was indeed confirmed that my poor car had been taken out by a bus – in the middle of a busy commuter carpark 500 metres away (on a different side of the road) from bus access. Our car was towed from the scene along with another couple of cars. It seems the poor (and I say ‘poor’ in the most endearing kind of way NOT) lady bus driver, who for some reason or another decided to take a detour through the commuter carpark. Being the carpark it is, well...err...umm it is meant for cars not buses. It seems my little lady friend the bus driver (who had only been on the job for 5 days), could not manoeuvrer her big old Council bus out of the carpark without taking a few extra cars along for the ride. It’s unfortunate that one of those cars happened to be mine.

The car was towed from the scene when it was determined it was un-driveable. Trevor was able to (after much running around) access the car and retrieve the all important items such as the car seats, stroller and the like. The cosmetic damage isn’t too bad. From what we can tell it has more to do with a problem with the wheels. Apparently the car that took the brunt of the bus came off second best.

I’m grateful there doesn’t appear to be a lot of damage. Never the less though, we are without a car for the foreseeable future which is a complete and utter nightmare. This is especially so when we are one car short already. I have spoken to the insurance companies involved, both mine and the Council, and it seems we are able to get a hire car at our expense and if all goes well, it will be reimbursed once this matter is concluded. I can’t say I’m happy about this at all! It sucks we have to shed a cent; really it does. I am also annoyed that the insurance company will only cover the base cost of hiring the vehicle and not the insurance options to reduce the excess – I can tell you now, I will be buggered if I am driving a hire car around with a $2000 excess – no sir re!

Anyway, I suppose, what is done is done – there isn’t much we can do about things now. I have to wonder though, whether this so called bus driver got her licence out of a weetbix box!

14 Months.

My budda baby (you’ll understand that connotation soon) is growing up fast. It has been a while since I updated on her progress.

1. First things first...she is as gorgeous as ever!

2. She now weighs around 10.8 kgs and is 80cms tall. She has well and truly recovered from her little bout of sickness a few weeks back – she has put the weight back on and then some! She is such a solid little thing now (and I mean solid). She has this big puffy round face and a large protruding belly which I just adore.

3. She hasn’t developed an ability to stand up on her own yet. Nor is she walking on her own although she does walk when stood up and prompted to do so. I think my little Lily is lazy – might refer to her as Lazy Lily! I have absolutely no idea where she gets that laziness from. She is just not interested in walking – she is happy to crawl around or cruise the furniture.

4. Lily now has a grand old total of 12 teeth. She has another 4 teeth coming through – the first of her ‘big’ teeth (not sure what happened to the last of her little teeth – they haven’t appeared – she’s skipped those and moved on to the molars).

There are 2 on the top and 2 on the bottom and they are slowly but surely making their way down and are quite visible in her smile. They first appeared at least a month ago and have been causing some grief as they steadily make their way to the surface; the grief consisting of sleep issues and grumpiness.

5. Speaking of sleep issues and grumpiness – I think it deserves a paragraph of its own - Lily has had many moments. Leaving illness aside, there were a few weeks where she was intent on waking up between 3.00 – 4.00am every morning much to my displeasure. There were a few times I succumbed and gave her a bottle so she would go back to sleep, so that I could sleep. Thankfully, I stopped that habit quick smart before it developed into something untoward. As for the grumpiness, Lily can be a Little Miss ‘Diva’. If she doesn’t get what she wants, she will crack it – hop down on the floor and just lie there. Those tears are still evident every turn. She sure hasn’t lost the ability to turn on the waterworks when she wants to.

6. Enough of the yukky stuff. Lily is delightful in so many ways. I love how she waves good bye and says “bye” in the most audible fashion. She says “ta”, “ball”, “bird” (she just loves them so…), “no”, “mamma”- Grandma, “nanna” and “inner” - dinner. Whilst she has no where near the vocabulary that Byron had at the same age, she is getting there and for the most part, I have some understanding of where she is coming from. She is far more expressive with actions (and whiney/wingy language) then Byron ever was.

7. Lily gives the best cuddles and kisses. I love ‘our’ time together on her rocking chair every night. She sits facing me and just cuddles into my chest – Awwwhhhh it’s wonderful! *sigh* I hope it never ends!

I can not believe she is 14 months old all ready. Please, if you're reading Lily – slow down – you're growing up before my eyes and I want to make sure I don't miss a thing!

Byronism...

It’s been a while between ‘isms, so when Byron said something funny (...well it was to me) the other day I thought I better record it.

He was watching TV when he noticed a Sesame Street character was wearing a hat in the bath – for the record it was a shower cap. The conversation went like this…

Byron: “Why is he wearing a girl’s hat?”
Me: “It’s not a girl’s hat; it’s a shower cap”
Byron: “But he's in the bath! It's a bath cap…you can wear it in the bath too”

Mother’s Guilt

So I’m feeling down; really down. There are a few things but the overwhelming concern for me is whether I’m doing the right thing by my kids working fulltime...???

I just feel terribly guilty about the way things are at the moment. The kids don’t appear to be suffering or at least that’s how it appears to me; but me? Well, I’m suffering a little bit at a time. It’s like every day of the last 8 months has chipped a little away from my mothering soul. I simply can’t shake the guilt of it anymore.

For the most part, I go to work and I plot along and that is what I have done for the past 8 months. There are some issues at work (with the team) which isn’t making for a very pleasant work environment which has got me thinking about what is important to me. I go to work because I have to earn money to keep us afloat. I don’t go to work to be sucked into the abyss of crap some people find the need to be involved in. I would much rather be home with my kids and that is it, plain and simple.

Would it be better for us to stay here [where we live now] and plot along? Probably not. We are claustrophobic. We are at each other’s throats. There are toys everywhere. There is no more room left. It’s definitely time – time to move. With the prices of houses etc, well, there is no other option but for me to work - and full time is it for now. Trevor just simply doesn’t earn enough for me not to work or even to work 3 days a week in the current building and house climate. Even if we stayed where we are I would have to work. It’s just a plain and simple case of having to live! I know we chose to build our house when others might argue we could have got away without it. We say that’s not the case because our family quite frankly needs it – we need a bigger place or our sanity will be next to go.

Anyway, I’m getting off track here because whether we chose to build a house or not is not the issue. I guess, for the most part, I feel sad that it’s a case of me having to work fulltime. I feel sad that I don’t have a choice not to work fulltime. I feel ripped off with my mothering experience and that’s just it. I feel like I don’t get the same joy and delight and experience as the ‘stay at home mother’ does. I feel like a bad mother. That may sound stupid. It may not be the case at all. Unfortunately though, it’s the way I feel.

I’m tired of seeing my kids at their worst times – when they are hungry for breakfast and ready for bed. I am tired of seeing angst over happiness. I’m tired of trying to fit everything in on a Saturday. I’m tired of feeling like I’m missing out. I especially feel like I have ripped Lily off. I was only working 3 days a week with Byron at the same age and with Lily it is 5 days.

I guess I just feel like I’m doing a terrible job. People tell me I’m doing a good job juggling both and whilst we are managing well, it doesn’t ease my guilt. While we’re on it! If someone tells me one more time that “unfortunately that is just the way it is today – everyone has to do it so just get on with it” I will loose it. I hate it when people say I’m being too sensitive and not to worry “the kids won’t remember” or “they know no different”. I try to tell my self that everyday just to make it better but I know different. I know how it should be and is meant to be. Why can’t it be for me?

I have been feeling like this for a good while and today it came to a head. I will get passed it, move on, but I will always carry mother’s guilt. I guess nothing will ease it or take it away except an option of working less and at the moment that is not on the agenda.

Where art thou sleeping baby?

Why oh why were my children still awake at 10.45pm when they were both asleep at 7.00pm???

My night so far...

7.30pm - Both children asleep.
8.00 pm - Lily wakes up. Cries. I cuddle her for a while, put her back down. She is fine.
8.15pm - Lily crying again. Hmmm. Pick her up, change dirty nappy (in the dark – mean feat), cuddle her and put her down again. She is fine.
8.30pm Lily crying again. Implement controlled crying. She dozes off to sleep or went quiet.
9.00pm – Me, searching for Heroes episode 3 on line. Lily crying again. Pick her up. She stops. Put her back down, she starts again. Pick her up, give her some Panadol, cuddle her and put her back down. She is quiet
9.15pm – Lily starts crying again. Trevor picks her up. She stops. He cuddles her for a good while and puts her back. She is quiet.
9.45pm – Lily starts crying again. Time for controlled crying. She stops – asleep?
10.00pm – Lily starts crying. Byron wakes up!!! I get Lily and decide to give her cuddles on my lap whilst I watch Heroes episode 3 on the computer. She thinks its playtime. Byron is wide awake.
10.20pm – Lily is still awake, as is Byron. Lily needs a nappy change AGAIN! I decide to give her some water. She really thinks its playtime and is all smiles. I decide enough is enough (when am I meant to go to sleep?).
10.40pm – Lily goes down...crying; more crying; more crying . Hmmm. Stops crying. Starts crying. Stops crying. I go check on her and she stops. The little bugger is playing me. Byron meanwhile says “Lily is waking me up” (poor mite).
10.45pm – Lily still crying! Byron is talking to himself in bed. I decide more control crying.
11.00pm – It worked - Silence (but for how long??!)

Byron was a dream child – he slept beautifully. Miss Lily. Hmmm. She is a little different; more difficult. Definitely not as easy as he was. She has just developed these habits. Maybe it’s teeth? I don’t know?! All I want to know is...where art thou sleeping baby?

Arrrhhhh...Silence is Golden! *sigh*

On that note, Goodnight!

One step closer...

Last night we attended our first ever body corporate meeting at our soon to be new place of residence. I don’t know if I mentioned it previously but our land is one of 15 lots within a ‘gated community’ (sounds so cult like huh?). Accordingly, we have a body corporate and quarterly fees (which are only small, something like $150 a quarter). We also have a committee which Trevor has volunteered for (it’s ‘bout time he showed some initiative in relation to this project – although ‘initiative’ might be the wrong word; thinking more along the lines of persuasion). We have remote entry to the complex – to keep all the baddies out! We received 2 little clickers yesterday which provided some excitement – it’s not like we have a slab yet so anything *new* related to the house provides us with some form of amusement.

Back to the meeting - boy was it an eye opening experience. By the sounds of it there may have been some previous animosity in relation to the issue of water – hopefully that gets sorted out quick smart. I was actually surprised by the type of residents who have purchased land. There are quite a few older couples – I guess I was hoping there might have been some young families (but...with the price of houses these days is it any wonder). One lovely old man, who happens to be a landscaper *wink*wink* took us on a tour of his back yard...I was trying to pick up some pointers. There is one young couple who are getting married next year and they seem lovely. They have bought the block of land next door to us. I have actually had some email communications with them previously and I can certainly see us sharing a few drinks over the coming years.

The quest for completion of the new house (or at least a slab) is well and truly on the way. I had a meeting with our builder this morning, bright and early at 7.30am. He was an interesting chap – much older then I thought he would be (or maybe that was me dreaming about hunky builders *sigh*). He seems experienced enough and was recommended by some friends so it was a lucky break to end up with him as the builder.

As expected, one does not come out of these exercises saving money – Oh no! It seems there is more money yet to spend and most of it's to do with electrical work. We also upgraded the termite protection. I’m still thinking about whether we need to upgrade the water tank. Anyway, I think today added $3,000.00 plus to the bill and we haven’t yet started building – I’m sure there will be other surprises along the way. People weren’t wrong when they said it never works out to be what you thought it would. Even so, we will be well and truly ahead (with equity) when it is all complete. We are getting so much more for our dollar then what we would have gotten having bought outright albeit with some pain and suffering along the way.

As for the slab, the infamous slab, the builder expects it to be laid within the next 3-4 weeks (they have excavating, drainage and stuff to do before then). That will be one step closer to the achievement of our dream. He wouldn’t commit on a completion month other then to say we would be in next year (Umm H-E-L-L-O! Next year is 12 months!). Once he gets started things should keep moving. I hope to have bricks and a roof by Christmas. I hope to be in by the end of March, early April.

Fixture Sport

Byron started fixture sport - Kindy Futsal (or indoor soccer).

My besty, his godmother, organised for him to join. I actually didn’t realise there was organised sport out there for littlies under 5. There is though and she found it. She swung by our place on Saturday morning and we headed out to the centre (after I packed all the stuff we would require for swimming lessons which just so happened to be half an hour after soccer finished ).

Can I just say at the outset that his cuteness factor was beyond words...especially when the teeny tiny little shin pads and big socks were added to the outfit.

The program was developed for children 3-5. There are no big soccer games just drills and activities geared towards developing ball skills and coordination. They even played ‘what’s the time Mr Wolf’ and ‘duck, duck, goose’, There was so much running around that it got to the point, towards the end of the hour, when Byron just sat on the floor and said “I can’t…I have no more energy” – bless him. There was also the time Byron picked up the ball with is hands *gasp*. Shortly after realising what he did *gasp* he started crying because, Trevor had grilled him many times the night before that he couldn't pick up the ball (and no he won't be one of 'those' parents). He got over it about 20 seconds later.

In typical Byron style his focus was a little off. He was off with the pixies a few times during the hour. I am actually hoping this will help a little with his attention span. Time will tell.

There are 8 more sessions this season (we joined mid season) which should provide sufficient time for Byron to decide if he likes it. He said he had fun and he seemed to enjoy the novelty of it all but hey when you're 4 you're bound to change your mind weekly.

Next week he should get his ‘strip’ which will have his name on the back. I can’t wait to see how he looks.

In other news…

I just wanted to say a big congratulations to a special friend Andee (and Logan). Congratulations on the birth of their very special and long awaited princess, Tasmin Alana. I am over the moon with delight that their star is finally here – and after a home birth too. Words can not express how proud I am of the way she got through it! I can’t wait to share the next part of her journey with her.

Just Stuff

There’s a fair been happening around here at the moment (or at least it feels like that when you have to report it all in one entry).

On Wednesday I had a follow up appointment for Lily at the hospital. Naughty me, missed the original follow up appointment for the 4th of August – hey, when they are booked over 6 months in advance you are bound to forget?! If that wasn’t bad enough, the rescheduled appointment was rescheduled again (something to do with the doctor being away). Anyway, we made it to the hospital, albeit a bit latter then expected.

There is good news!

The paediatrician has decided that Lily can come off her antibiotics for now or until such time as we get the results of her ultrasound, which is to take place on Tuesday 30th October. If the ultrasound reveals that Lily’s hydronephrosis has worsened (that is, the dilation has increased) then she is to go back on the antibiotics. If the dilation remains the same or better she gets to stay off the medication. Apparently, there is much more risk with infection in kidneys with babies less than 12 months. Now that she is older the risk is not so bad. However, in saying that, we were advised that every (note emphasis) time she gets a temperature, we are to take her straight to the GP to allow for urinary analysis (I am excited about the prospect of dicing with that good old fanny bag again!).

So, at this stage, we go off the drugs and wait for the ultrasound (which I imagine isn’t going to be as pleasant as it was when Lily was a newborn).

Moving on. We have made contact with the Builder!!!! Yippppeeeee! (can you sense my excitement).

We (or just me because Trevor has to work) are meeting with the builder ‘on site’ *he he he* on Tuesday morning to discuss everything that needs to be discussed (I suppose - because I have no idea). I was advised by the builder that it will take around 1-1 ½ hours. Oh! I’m excited that we finally have some action – super excited *dance around the house excited*. Alas, there is a down side – apparently he is running 3 weeks behind; something to do with the rain and concreters. I really hope this isn’t a sign of things to come. I’m trying not to think to much about that comment. Hopefully he can whip a few concreters out of his bum between now and next week so I can get my slab ASAP.

Hmmm, what else...

Work is really full on at the moment. There is so much to be done – lots of deadlines. My days are very busy which is great. Means home time comes around quickly. I really like my job. I work in a busy team environment with great people. All is not good with the team though. Apparently (because I’m not privy or involved) there are some issues with the team dynamics, so much so, they have called in reinforcements and we (meaning the whole team) have to attend some team building/counselling/ development day next week. Sounds fun huh? Can’t say I am looking forward to it all (especially when it really has nothing to do with me). I consider myself a team player so in thinking it will make for a better work environment, I guess (well not really - its compulsory) I'll attend (together with glee and gusto *cough* *cough*). Stay tunned for this one!

I had a day off yesterday and headed to the lovely Miss Sophie’s 3rd birthday party. It was a lovely morning for all involved. Byron was very excited at the prospect of “having a day off” to go to a party. He talked about his “day off” for days – “I’m having a day off tomorrow mummy” – Me thinking – a day off from what?! Craft, sleep, playing in the sunshine – Geezers I need a holiday just to do one of those things. I love having a weekday off with the chilblanes. I really enjoy that time. It's a step away from normalness if only for a day.

I think that’s all there is to report for now.

Oh! One more thing!

Byron is starting soccer tomorrow – my little boy is joining organised sport – kindy indoor soccer. The juvenile sporting weekends have begun. I imagine this is when my weekends of freedom (by the way, my definition of freedom is not your standard characterisation - no no – I mean it in the context of restrictions on unscheduled dealings) end for good (or at least the next 18 years).

....and that's it!

Nighty Night.

She’s walking...

A metre here and 30cms there - she is finally taking some more steps BUT only when you stand her up and say “come and get me” or “come to mummy”. She can take quite a few steps before she plops down. Miss Lily can not yet get to the standing position unaided nor does she have the guts to just go on her own without some guidance but hey...my little Lily is still so clever.

Plus, she is just so darn cute!!!!!!!!!

I have lots of bits and pieces to talk about but little time (work stuff calling – darn mediation I need to prep for). There's Lily's health stuff, house stuff, work stuff, and well...just stuff. I'll have to come back later me thinks – probably tomorrow.

Artistic Flair

I think Byron might be a photographer! What do you think?

He definitely has some artistic flair; the way he has captured that builder’s hat. Oh and those feet...aren’t they just the cutest and the placement is *oh so* perfect (and no my eyes aren’t painted on – I'm just wearing my ‘mummy’ glasses!). Hmm....I can't say the photo of me is very flattering - I think the light is all wrong!

(Byron's photo was taken by me...)

I had a Fisher Price camera on lay-by which I was going to give him for his birthday but decided against it, because I thought he had got enough. Instead I thought I would give it to him for Christmas until I remembered the money dad had given me for Byron's birthday so against my inner voice telling me he has enough, I decided to get it anyway (I had been mulling over what to get him with his birthday money and the bank just didn't seem like any fun). I am so glad I did. He loves it - his first ever camera!

The picture quality isn't the greatest which is fine because I think it adds that childish factor to the shot – kinda like a drawing. It’s only been one afternoon so I haven’t had the best opportunity to see him in action but I really can’t wait. I can’t wait to see what he thinks is worth capturing. I can’t wait to see his take on the world; it's like looking through his eyes and that to me is so exciting!

I wonder what he will see tomorrow?!

She’s back!

Lily’s bright and breezy side has returned! I can’t believe it. I honestly thought it was gone for good, it had been so long.

We went to the doctors again today just to make sure she is on the mend because yesterday morning and the day before I had the *oh so* pleasant morning surprise of vomit! Not sure what was happening there because she seemed ok during the day (no vomit). Anyway, back on track, she is doing great although the doctor wants a urine sample checked just to make sure she doesn’t have a urinary tract infection.

Well do you think we had any luck getting a sample in time to send to the pathologist? Nope, nada, zip...nothing! Who ever said those damn ‘stick on your fanny’ collector bags make it easier lied because all we ended up with were a few drops and Huggies got the rest. Don't even ask about the time we tried and got poo instead...I guess we will try on Monday.

She was smiling, crawling around, playing and seemed so much happier today!

I am so elated to have her back!

Bad Habits

For the record, Lily is getting better. She is eating well (still no dairy) and the diarrhea is all gone *touch wood* although she is still quite ‘soft’ in that department. She is off to kindy tomorrow for her first day back in a week, which I think will be really good for her and get her back into her normal routine. I hope to restart her on dairy tomorrow (or at least one bottle).

Leaving miserableness and weight loss aside the dreaded sickness has caused something else...bad habits!

Lily is so out of routine at the moment it’s not funny. Over the course of the last week she has had a lot of cuddles, and I mean a lot...like, cuddle central at our place. Is it possible for a baby to get too many cuddles??!!!

She has become less active (which is understandable). At this rate she won't be walking until she is 16 months old!

She wants to be picked up ALL the time (note emphasis on ALL).

She won’t let me leave the room when I’m home with her or cracks up if she sees me (awwhhh she loves me most – this isn’t too bad I suppose).

She wants cuddles to sleep.

She whinges, whines and cries constantly (it’s driving me nuts).

I’m really scared that all the good habits and routines we have developed over the previous year are shot. Things such as sleep and being independent were things Lily was so proficient at and now seem to have gone flying (at full pelt) out the window. What if they don’t return? What will I do? Start over?

I know that she has been sick and during that time she has needed extra cuddles and reassurance and I needed that too (something to do with feeling like I was giving her what she needed and doing everything I could to help). However, it seems little Lily has cottoned on to all the extra attention and is gunning her little heart out for all she can get shunning any routine and schedules we have in place. At the moment, she thinks its all about her – her way or no way! Somehow me thinks that won’t work around here.

So.

Tomorrow is the day when routine and order make their way back into my house. Lily will just have to accept it – or at least that is the plan anyway...she might need extra cuddles after her first day back at kindy.

Slowly but surely...

Trevor stayed home with Lily today.

It was off to the doctors this morning to make sure she was doing okay in the circumstances. As expected, Lily has a very bad case of gastroenteritis, which is what we thought.

Apparently we are doing something right - we are to continue doing what we are doing by giving her lots of water, gastrolite ice-blocks and muesli made up with water or anything dry and bland. We were told to keep her well away from diary until the diarrhea has passed. If it hasn't passed by Thursday we are to go back for more testing.

They weighed her at the doctors and she was just under 10kgs give or take. At her 12 month needles she was 10.2kgs and since then she hasn’t been weighed. As a guestimate, I would say she has lost at least 500grams to maybe 750 grams which is a lot for a little person. The entire gorgeous chub that hugged her thighs and gave her a jolly belly is gone…all gone! It’s reassuring that she had a nice layer of chub covering her because I dread to think what would have been left on her if she didn’t.

Trevor said she seemed somewhat happier today although still whingy. The diarrhea is slowing down which is a great sign.

I get to have another work from home day tomorrow – yippee! Love that my job is so flexible. It just means I need to do a few hours work tonight to make sure I get all my work done. That’s ok…happy if it means I get extra cuddles tomorrow.

Here is a pic taken of my sweet pumpkin on Saturday…right in the grip of the dreaded sickness – she still looks as gorgeous as ever *sigh*.

(excuse the drity face - she was rubbing the dirt all over her face whilst having 'fresh air' time)

Arrrgghhh!!!!

Lily is miserable.

Down right miserable and apart from endless cuddles there really isn’t anything I can do.

She still has gastro. Not vomiting now but terrible diarrhea. To make it worse, I had the dreaded gastro yesterday. Granted, no where near as bad as my little Lily but terrible all the same (number 3 will be on hold for a while – there is no way I am going back for that hyperemesis any time soon!).

I have never seen Lily so unhappy and dejected with life. In fact, I never saw Byron like Lily is now so I'm hard pressed to know what exactly I should do. We are off to the doctors first thing tomorrow. We thought about taking her to hospital today but she is drinking water, loving those gastrolite iceblocks (which is fantastic) and eating muesli made up with water, so she is getting some nourishment. I really hope she picks up soon as it’s heartbreaking to see her big sad eyes staring up at me - I want to see some smiles.

Arrrgghhh…I hope Byron doesn’t get it!!!

Finance Approval – the house is on the move!!!

I have been a little slack in reporting the progress of the house...things were happening I just didn't think to report it *blush* - sorry about that!

Better late then never...

Finance was a little slow in final approval not because of us meeting the loan or servicing requirements because we did that fine. I just took issue with the valuation of the land. It seems the valuer would only value the land for what we paid for it when clearly it was worth approx $25,000 more then what we paid for it 6 months ago. Hence I wanted them to go back and do it again. Fat good that did! I even provided history of sale for the block opposite which was much smaller and sold for $24,000.00 more then what we purchased ours for 6 months prior, but that apparently wasn’t enough and they wouldn't budge on the valuation *cough cough*- damn pride issue me thinks.

I was really cranky over the whole valuation issue because it means we have to contribute some extra money ourselves - long story but apparently someone stuffed up and lent us a little too much for the land so there was a slight shortfall with the Loan to Valuation Ratio which they had to grab back from the construction loan. If they had of valued the land a little bit higher (which they should have) there would not have been any problems. Seriously, when the house is finished it will be worth a lot more; it's just those damn valuers only ‘like’ to value at cost price - of course they don't refund mortgage insurance! Anyway, what is done is done...it’s all approved which is a load of my mind.

Whilst the valuation debacle was taking place the house plans were approved and certified by council which happened much quicker then what I thought it would. It's nice to know there are some things that don’t move at a snails pace when building a house.

So, what next?

Well (fingers crossed) they have 20 days from today in which to start building (assuming of course the approval letter we forward to them today was to their satisfaction).

We are wrapped. To think that our lovely little block of land will be a buzz with activity in the coming weeks is marvellous.

I truly cannot wait to see it transformed.

Dreadful Day

Disclaimer: Enjoy my whinge and YES I know things could be worse!

Today was one of those days one dreads – you know the days that just don't go your way.

It all started peachy – or as peachy as you can at 6.00am in the morning. The car was scheduled for a service. I had booked the car in a few weeks ago. Anyway, I had hoped to get the kids off to kindy that little bit earlier so that I could get the car in on time.

I managed to sneak into the shower earlier then I usually do. Byron stumbled out of bed not long after that. I got dressed, made lunches and got Byron some breakfast. It was all going smoothly - all I had to do was get Lily up, dressed and head out from there (I had prepared her breaky for kindy - food is a great divert when needed).

It couldn’t have been going better. That was until; I walked into her room to the stench of vomit – that pungent smell there is no mistaking. The only thing left to discover was exactly how much vomit existed. She didn’t let me down. It was everywhere, including her hair and she was happily sleeping away in it. I left the room to compose myself for a tick (bit of background – there is this mutual hatred between vomit and I. I can’t stand the sight, smell or anything in between when it comes to sick. As I have gotten older, it has gotten worse. I think it might have a bit to do with the Hyperemesis Gravidarum I suffered during pregnancy). The thought that it might have been a one off was dispelled when Lily threw up again at the moment I stepped back into her room. It took all my composure not to throw up as well - give me flu, measles, chicken pox...just not spew.

My poor little Pilly Pie is sick. She has had the worst run of luck lately. I never got the opportunity to write about her last affliction but in short she had a terrible viral chesty infection that resulted in high temperatures, days off kindy and a few visits to the doctors. She was just plain miserable and it went on for over a week. She was only just getting better until this damn bug befriended her. Grrrr!

Anyway, my morning gets better! Really it does…

I ran her a bath at 7.00am in an effort to rid her of the vomit and the smell. I was chatting away with mum whilst watching her in the bath (winging away no doubt). Well, I hung up, went to start to wash her when I noticed the water was brown – poo brown. The little missy had poohed in the bath. I could hardly believe my luck.

Vomit and diarrhoea...what did I do to deserve such a gift??

Cutting a long story short (because I could go on for hours), my mother in law picked up Byron to drop him at kindy, the car service people said I could drop the car off later, Trevor hurried as quickly as he could and I made it to work by noon (I had some deadlines to meet).

The afternoon was going swimmingly until I got a call from the car service people, which is never a good sign. My front breaks were dangerously low and well...well it appears I needed 4 new tires – AGAIN!!!

You may recall the dreaded tire issue I had 15 months ago. It seems, poor wheel alignment and low air pressure has caused my tires to die in the ass at pretty much exactly half of their life span. In short, that means another $800 for tires. Not to mention the breaks, filters and a few other things.

Wait for it...

$1,414.00

Yep...$1,414.00

I’m not one to muck around with safety in the car, especially with children so I gave the go ahead but not before I grilled the guy as to whether he was ripping me off. He assured me he wasn’t and that he would show me the tires when I picked up the car. Alas, he showed them to me and they were pretty bad *blush*. I could tell the guy really felt sorry for me especially seeing as he was the same guy that put the other tires on 15 months ago. He gave me a slight discount and told me I was to bring the car to them every few months to make sure the tires were wearing evenly and the pressure was right etc (and all for free).

Geezers it’s an expensive exercise owning a car…and ours is shy on 5 years old!

Just when you feel like you might be getting a ahead financially something like this happens (that you don't bank on) and you are right back to square one again.

Moving on...the day ended on a better note. Lily was screaming for food and has managed *touch wood* to hold some vegemite toast down. Plus work has agreed to let me work from home tomorrow .

...This work from home thing sounds exciting.

Damn Patches

Byron had his 4 year immunisations today. Sadly I couldn’t be there. As much as I wanted to, dear old work called again (I know, I know if I wanted to I probably could have…but alas I would rather have the day off to take him to a party). Anyway, I knew he would be fine with Grandma plus I bought some patches; you know the patches that are supposed to numb the pain? (I wish I knew they cost $17 before I bought them). Anyway, I was hoping that if he didn’t feel any pain then the experience wouldn’t be at all bad.

The patches were good in theory – just whack them on each arm 60 minutes prior to puncture time and hay presto; you have a numbed arm and no needle pain. However, someone should have put in the fine print:

“Caution need be taken when attempting to apply patches to young child’s arm. Ear plugs, closed doors and windows a must. Possible restraint required. Strong will (for adult applier) vital”

Seriously, it was apparently a complete debacle. Byron wouldn’t have a bar of it. My mother in law (Grandma) said she had never seen such resistance from dear Byron…ever! For what ever reason he wouldn’t let those patches near his arm for quite a while. After tears all round (including Grandma – the poor dear appeared out of her depth with this one), and stories of numbing bones and protecting skin were hashed, the patches were on. Thankfully!

Thanks to the patches the lad didn’t feel a thing. In fact he didn’t flinch at all let alone shed a tear which made it all worth while (although easy for me to say seeing as I didn’t have to put up with the tornado that was Byron).

All is good in the boy’s department. He is growing well – 16.5kgs and 105cms – sitting in the 75th percentile for height and 50th percentile for weight which is reassuring to know (especially with his eating habits).

Back to the patches…lucky there will not be a requirement for patches any time soon. I dear say when he is 15 he will be able to do with out them.

*sob* *sob* I just realised today was his final little milestone in his little maroon baby health book. There is a spot for the 10-12 and 15 year old health check but by then I doubt I will even be able to find the book let alone need (or want) to fill it in (who wants to know what their BMI was at 15). Oh my...

Slap Slap

Lily has developed a new habit.

A new bad habit!

It seems she has a fixation with slapping faces - mine especially. She particularly likes taking a swipe when she is confronted with the word NO!

The slapping wouldn’t bother me to much if I didn’t wear glasses. I’m pretty good at dodging her attempts. However, when I am caught unawares the glasses get caught in the firing line and she thinks it’s hilarious – which of cause it isn’t. What’s more, today I was advised by her kindy carer that Lily had a little ‘time out’ (not in the general sense – just separation) from her little friend at kindy. It seems she took to slapping him on the face and also attempted a scratch or two.

It appears my sweetly sublime little Lily has taken a leaf from a book I do not own and have never read *shakes head*.

I was trying to rationalise her behaviour this afternoon. I thought that maybe it had to do with the fact she has to fight for what she wants when Byron is around. Or maybe it’s the rough play that she and Byron partake in. Hmmm that’s it – I’m all out! Byron was never a slapper or a biter and generally never partook in any of that conduct parents hope to god their children don’t carry out and therefore I don’t really know what to make of it (...he is making up for that now – i.e. dysfunctional listening skills - but I will leave that for another day).

I know it’s only early days; for crying out loud she is barely 13 months. However, she thinks it’s a game – one big game of slap-a-tee-slap with NO as the que!

Hmmm what to do??? What to do???

I think I will just persist in taking a strong approach when she takes a swipe from now on. Be firm and consistent and see how it goes. Surely it’s a phase that will pass? Right!???

Lily is different from Byron in so many ways. I know all kids are different, but she is the polar opposite to what he was at the same age if my memory serves me correct. She loves to get down and dirty where as he wasn’t as fussed. She loves toys where he wasn’t bothered. She eats and drinks better then what he did. She doesn’t talk any where near what he did at the same age. Byron simply adored books (and still does) but she doesn't seem to like them at all (as much as I try). Bottom line, she is far more active.

Who ever said girls are more angelic and easy to look after was lying!!! I have proof.

Sunday at the Farm

...Now where was I?

Oh...that's right, I had done Saturday and now for Sunday...

Yesterday we had another little birthday party to attend. It was for one of Byron’s little friends who share his birthday. So on the glorious spring day – more like summer – that was yesterday, we headed off to the farm to have some play time with the animals. Lily was dressed in her cowgirl attire and looked simply adorable (no bias at all). It's a pity she wouldn't keep the hat on. I think she is going to be trouble in that department!

Yesterday marked the occasion of the first horse ride. She seemed to enjoy it all. Gee she looked so tiny up there on the horse.

Byron enjoyed his ride too. I remember distinctly that the last time he rode a horse (which was the day before I had Lily) he wasn’t at all impressed. I didn’t expect him to be this time either, but I was wrong. He seemed to enjoy it however he didn’t want to go back for ride number two.

I tell you what he did love...the mouse! Yep! Mice *squinches face up in disgust*. Byron got to play with some mice and he loved them (and no, there won’t be any pet mice in our house any time soon!). He also loved the guinea pig, which Lily tried to smack in the face – naughty little sausage.

The kids also got to feed the lamas (which Byron was too scared to do), donkeys, horses and ducks. They also got to brush the horses. There were wheel barrow races and running races too.

He was simply exhausted after his big day at the farm.

When it was all over and the animals probably couldn’t wait to see the back of us, we headed home but only to head back out again to my sister’s place for a roast. My brother was up for a fleeting visit for work and was heading off in the morning.

*Sigh* I think I am happy to be at work today!