A focus on the future!

I have decided that it is time now not to continue dwelling on the past and on things that I have no control of! Too much of my time is spent pondering the "what ifs" and "why" of my life that I am not moving on. So with a little prompting from my blogger friend Chris I have set myself a challenge to help me move on. I have made a list of 101 things that I want/need to achieve/complete in 1001 days. Here goes:

101 in 1001!
Start: 19/10/2008
Finish: 17/07/2011
1. Lose 5kgs
2. Lose 10kgs
3. Lose 15kgs
4. Lose 20kgs
5. Lose 25kgs
6. Lose 30kgs
7. Lose 35kgs
8. Lose 36.7kgs and make it to goal!
9. Go camping once a year (0/3)
10. Have a New Years Eve Party at our house.
11. Get rid of clothes that I no longer wear or haven't worn.
12. Learn to speak Welsh.
13. Have a family holiday other than camping.
14. Host a "How to Host A Murder" dinner party
15. Complete a marathon
16. Have a pap smear
17. Visit Mam is Queensland
18. Organise a family get together - both sides.... OMG!!
19. Have a party for Noel's 40th in April 2009
20. Get a tattoo.
21. Buy a house
22. Reduce my Blood Pressure to a normal rate
23. Meet up with Ali (from school)
24. Meet up with Jo (from school)
25. Go to a concert
26. Have a poker night
27. Read an auto-biography or a biography
28. Create a website
29. Learn how to play chess
30. Stop taking BP Medicine because I am healthy
31. Hold a full chinese dinner party (cooked from scratch)
32. Go to an AFL match
33. Repair dining table
34. Have a garage sale
35. Catch a crayfish
36. Spend a weekend at a health spa
37. Go on the Spirit of Tasmania with the family
38. Play a Bob Dylan song on the guitar
39. Go out for dinner with my mam
40. Grow an orchid
41. Learn how to ball room dance
42. Read the Bible
43. Hold a spider
44. Host an Indian Dinner party (cooked from scratch)
45. Have a family holiday on a houseboat
46. Send mam a card every month (0/34)
47. Be able to do 50 sit ups
48. Be able to do 100 sit ups.
49. Have a body massage
50. Eat Abalone
51. Spend the night with the kids at Werribbee Zoo
52. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
53. Hold a fancy dress party
54. Write a cookbook
55. Hold a snake
56. Ride on a Harley Davidson
57. Try a different recipe every week (0/143)
58. Go horse riding
59. Go somewhere for dinner where we need to dress up
60. Buy some sexy lingerie
61. De-clutter my house (get rid of 1001 items not including general rubbish) (0/1001)
62. Complete a short course of my choice (not works)
63. Sort out photographs
64. Organise all DVD's and CD's
65. Go out for dinner with my sister
66. Listen to Alex read 3 nights per week (0/429)
67. Listen to Oliver read 3 nights per week (0/429)
68. Visit 10 waterfalls (0/10)
69. Ride on a camel
70. Make a pavalova from scratch
71. Go berry picking
72. Play mini golf witht he kids (0/6)
73. Volunteer my time to charity
74. Catch up with Annette when she is in Melbourne
75. Go for a family bike ride every 2 months (0/17)
76. Make my bed everyday
77. Attend Carols by Candlelight
78. Take Ann (Mother in law) out for lunch or dinner
79. Remove the computer from the dining table
80. Sit and watch the sunset
81. Go on a proper picnic
82. Hold a black tie dinner party
83. Sit at the dining table as a family 4 times per week (0/572)
84. Sort out kitchen cupboards
85. Be completely debt free
86. Walk 30 mins per day 3 time per week (0/429)
87. Finish unpacking house from the move
88. Put junk out for hard rubbish collection
89. Spend at least 1 hr per week quality time with Oliver (0/143)
90. Spend at least 1 hr per week quality time with Alex (0/143)
91. Have incredible sex with my husband.
92. Ring my mam once a week (0/143)
93. Ride on an elephant
94. Go body surfing
95. Catch up with Kelee and Roger
96. Visit Clare and Kerry in Sydney
97. Have a lunch or dinner with Vicky
98. Wake up and feel happy with myself
99. Have a pedicure or a pamper session with the girls in the family.
100. Put a $2 coin in a money box for every day of this challenge and do something good with it at the end (thanks Chris for this one)
101. Write a new list.

So there you have it.... I started yesterday!

Off to a jewellery party at Deb's tonight with Sharon, then it's off to a committee meeting Tuesday night - kind of makes up for the quiet weekend, hey?

PS Still feel like crap!!

OMG I have enjoyed today so far!

It has been a really good day so far.

This morning we had Tom's birthday party. It was at an entertainment arcade, Dark Zone, where the kids played a few games of lazer tag (similar to paint ball but not as violent) and then they played on the arcade games. It was a great party and we all enjoyed ourselves. Yes Noel and I had fun playing on the air hockey even though I came out the loser and yes I still can't drive even playing simulated car racing! LOL!! But it was good - the best thing was that Noel and I laughed together. We had fun together - it seems like forever since we put away the seriousness of life and had uncontrolled fun!

We went shopping after the party - just to get school lunch stuff - bread etc... I needed to get my nails refilled (yes I am a fake nail girl!) so Alex and I went there and the boys came home with the shopping. Alex loves the whole girly thing of being in the nail shop and the fact that they make a fuss over her and paint her nails with what ever colour she chooses. Today was hot pink - I am sure the school will say something tomorrow. Alex and I walked home from the nail shop which was good as we talk about all the flowers in peoples gardens and basically about anything really. It was a good mother/daughter part of the day.

Tonight we are having a BBQ for tea - T-Bone Steaks with baked potatoes, cauliflower cheese and vegetables! Oliver requested the steaks, Noel always loves baked potatoes with his steak, Alex requested the cauliflower cheese and I need vegetables. I have done really well this weekend with my food intake and currently have some soup cooking as I am typing... yum!

My doctor's appointment was disappointing yesterday with my BP going higher even with mega strong tablets! My BP was 155/98 yesterday and I don't know why? Maybe stressing about my BP? The doctor says that I shouldn't stress about going to see him or about anything else! Like as if??????

Anyways better go and finish all what's on the go...

A quiet Saturday?

It's Saturday morning, I am at work but only until 11am. Have a doctor's appointment at 12pm to see how the 3 days of the stronger medication has worked out. Geez I really hope that there has been an improvement in my BP but must say that I am feeling not so sick this morning.

I actually can't wait until I get home. I have really been missing spending time with the kids. So I really want to focus on them for the rest of the weekend. That is inbetween shopping and cleaning etc! hahaha

Still nothing planned bedsides Tom's birthday party in the morning... woohoo!!!

TGIF and a quiet weekend is ahead.... maybe?

Well the weekend is looking quieter by the minute with my in-laws going away for the weekend as a result of a spur of the moment decision! Needless to say we won’t be catching up with them this weekend. Currently all we have planned is Tom’s birthday party on Sunday morning and me going to the doctors at 12pm tomorrow.

Saying that the weather is meant to be glorious but we should put the effort into sorting out some more of our boxes and possibly even do a run to the tip.

But in our life anything can happen and normally does… so I have learned not to set anything in concrete! Hehehe

I really don't like the doctor's.

I must say that it is a glorious day in Melbourne today – shame I am once again inside working!!

Yesterday’s doctors’ appointment saw the same BP result for the last 3 weeks. 130/90 - which didn’t make my doctor that happy at all. But not bragging it is a hell of a sight better than the 168/110 I scored 11 weeks ago!! Needless to say 10 weeks of stronger medication (and not much effort from me to be honest) and my BP is still not “normal”. I left the appointment armed with extra strength tablets and an appointment for Saturday 12pm!

Finally decided I have sooked enough about the result of my doctor’s appointment yesterday. Time to move on in a positive way. Need to overhaul lifestyle and make some serious changes to help reduce my blood pressure and also to become a healthier person – not only for me but for my family!!

Speaking of the family, Noel’s work has gone haywire again and he is doing extra hours left right and centre. The kids are doing really well and enjoying the daylight savings. They have been riding their bikes up to the park and constantly asking if they can go to the milkbar? They only want to go there to buy lollies and they know I know that!

We need to also yell a big

******
HAPPY BIRTHDAY

******
to Tom who turns 8 today!! My how you are growing up into quite a hansome young man. Oliver and Alex are really looking forward to Tom's party on Sunday morning!!!

(This is an old photo of the 3 monkeys but its a nice one!!)

It's only Tuesday.....

It’s only Tuesday and I am already feeling tired and over it! Tired I suppose due to the weekend catching up. And over it as I can’t wait until next weekend!! Catch 22 right?

Big week this week!! Tonight Noel and Alex are off to “Girl’s Night Out” at the school. This is the first girls night as this is normally reserved for the dad’s and their sons but finally the school has realised that the girls are missing out. It’s from 6 – 9 pm, finger food provided and a bush band. The theme for the night is bush dancing and I so wish I was a fly on the wall to see how Noel copes with the bush dancing and Alex’s enthusiasm!

It is Tom’s birthday on Thursday and he already so excited. Tom stayed with us on Sunday night when my lovely friend Sharon, had her first date with her ‘dream lover’ – finally!!!!! Tom was telling us all about his party, about handing out his invitations, the way he is reminding everyone that he turns 8 on Thursday, etc…. the excitement in his voice is amazing and wonderful to listen to. He is having his party Sunday morning – I hope he has some excitement left by then.

Will have to catch up with my in-laws over the weekend as we haven’t seen them since the school holidays finished. We actually thought that they might want a break from having the kids over the school holidays – LOL!!! But I got the reassuring phone call last night that not only did they have a wonderful time with their grandchildren but that they miss them and wanted to see them soon. Might see if they want to come over for lunch/dinner on Sunday.

~ ~ o 0 O 0 o ~ ~

Oh as I briefly mentioned my girlfriend, yummy mummy Sharon (pictured left - isn't she gorgeous!!) had THE date – all went well even though she was nervous, worried, acting our scenarios of “what if…” etc before he finally knocked on her door to pick her up. A good evening was had I believe and from the brief discussion we have had this date should have happened so long ago it’s not funny but as they say “things happen only when the time is right!” I am really happy for Sharon and so praying things work out well from here on in… I am sure that they will!

~ ~ o 0 O 0 o ~ ~

However on the home front - we still need to pull our fingers out (although we are starting to make a noticeable effort) and get rid of the boxes under the patio. We have a huge garage sale coming up in the near future for sure. I have done some and we actually have a nice bbq area – well half of the patio is usable. We have had a few dinners outside now – roll on Summer and al fresco eating!!

Another weekend has gone....

Geez another weekend has flown by and I am at a little angry (but secretly excited) that the shops are really starting to fill up with Christmas stuff!

Angry because I cannot believe how fast 2008 is going. Angry because I am not organised and will have to pull my finger out to get myself up to speed.

But I am excited because I love Christmas - I love the whole idea of Christmas, fantasy, Santa Claus, being surrounded by family and friends, good company, good food, and good times. I adore the whole thought of Christmas - even better as my Mam and Clare will be coming down!

My secret wish this year would be that my sister Claire and I sort out what's been happening and her and her family join us this Christmas.............. who knows?

Enjoying being back in routine!

For sure - must say love routine. The kids have grown up with it with us both working fulltime and them attending creche and now before/after school care. Everyone knows what each has to do in the mornings so that everyone gets out the front door at precisely the right time...... sometimes we are a little off track but normally we get it right!

Cannot actually believe that it's Friday already but I must say we are all looking forward to the weekend as it's "OUR" time. Tonight we are off to a bbq with friends so that should be another good night. And bedside the obvious cleaning and shopping we have nothing planned for the rest of the weekend and the weather is looking good with 28 deg forecast for Sunday.

It's all good news on my nephew and I had forgotten to mention that he came home on the 1st October - he is still having blood tests, appointments at both Monash and the Royal Childrens Hospitals, etc but at least he is at home which makes it easier for my sister especially having the other three boys to look after also. We have exchange a few phone calls since my nephew's release from hospital but the communication seems to be starting to become limited once more. I have sent her a few text messages and rang her this morning so I am crossing fingers that things might eventually get better as far as our relationship is concerned. But not holding my breath!

My mam enjoyed her cruise, I am so glad that she took the plunge and treated herself. She went with a friend so it was two women out on the ocean enjoying themselves! Sunday was her birhtday, so we all sang happy birthday over the phone. She loved her present, a nice top/pants outfit, we sent up for her birthday. She wore it out for lunch on her birthday with my aunty and the girls. It is great that she has a really good circle of friends up on the island - I know that she is not on her own even though it's not the same as family. So I am really happy that she is enjoying life at the moment.

So overall the planets seem to be some what alligned enough to bring me happiness at the moment so I am off to enjoy it - that is as soon as I finish work for the day!

School Holidays Week 2

Well, week 2 is here and the kids are away again for the weekdays. This week they are with Noel's parents for the full five days. I must say that day 1 was disasterous with two little horrors upsetting their grandparents! I honestly wouldn't be surprised if this is the last time that they are allowed to stay with them and I really wouldn't blame Nana and Grandad if that was the case!

Needless to say after a night of worrying and discussing them with Noel both of us are quite angry. We have both rang them (at seperate times as we are at work) and have yelled the riot act at them. This is their last chance especially for Oliver - who at 10 is starting to really display attitude! And not a very nice attitude I must say! I am not really sure what to do with this - it is all new to us.

On a lighter note - we had a good day Sunday. Off four-wheel driving up the Rubicon (near Eildon) all was good except for a slight hiccup. I lost my purse thankfully not full of money but all the hassles of getting new cards and cancelling the others etc. It put me in a very fowl mood for a little while but once I got over it I tried to make the most of the rest of the day.

You never know someone may hand it in... but I doubt it.

School Holidays and Grand Final Day!

It’s Grand Final Day here in Melbourne… and finally, even I must say, it’s nice to have two Victorian teams battling it out. Shame that the Saints bowed out last week but still nice to see to home teams playing today.

As for us, we have celebrated our 15th Wedding Anniversary on Thursday. We got married on Grand Final Day in 1993! We went out for tea by ourselves Thursday night and then again last night with our kids and Noel’s parents.

On a sadder note my nephew was rushed into hospital on Thursday the 18th with an enlarged heart. Mam rang me to inform me as I haven't spoken to Claire since Mam left in March (don't know why?). So naturally the first thing I did was ring Claire and then went up to the hospital. It was good to see Claire especially to hug her even though the circumstances weren't the best. We have spoken most days and I even popped into the hospital by myself on the Monday after leaving work.

Not much more has been happening. The first week of the school holidays are overs – one more week to go. Luckily the kids spent the week just gone between Noel’s parents house and his brother’s house. They were taking to the Royal Melbourne Show, to a stage play at the local shopping centre, have seen Snake Busters and overall I think they had a ball.

It was so good to see them last night – I cried just seeing them and getting a hug. I missed them so much but due to work commitments at the moment we have to do it all again next week. Oh well – roll on next school holidays as I will definitely be having time off.

Jo xxx

Yippee the last day of footy for 2008

Woohoo today is the last day as far as the 2008 Football season is concerned. I am excited knowing that as of next week I will have my Sunday's back but saddened as it is such a big part of our winter!

The club had presentations for the U13's, U14's and U16's last night and today we have the presentation for the remainder of the club as well as the Annual General Meeting. It will be good to see Oliver up there getting his participation trophy.

Clare flew in from Sydney last night - she has come down to surprise Dad for Father's Day except the cat will be out of the bag as they will see each other today at the presentations. Oh well!

Better fly as I have lots to do with getting organised for the AGM - I am going to put my hand up for Treasurer (cross fingers I get voted back in!), then I have to go shopping as well as get ready as we are having an impromptu dinner party tonight so Sharon can catch up with Clare and Clare can also meet the Coopers!!

Should be a good night but a damn busy day!!

We are still around

Yes we are still around - have been busy unpacking boxes, working, finishing up the football season, etc. I must say the boxes seem to be never ending but I am sure we will eventually get to the end of them. I have decided that everything is getting unpacked in this house, sorted, kept or turfed, and hopefully I will learn not to hoard things.

All of us are well - sort off. I am struggling with my blood pressure being too high at the moment. Back to the doctors on Wednesday to see if the new stronger tablets are working. I am trying to take better care of myself but it is still very hard putting myself first.

The Christening of Christian went really well last weekend. Everyone enjoyed the day and we all looked excellent dressed in our finery.

Chat more soon and more often - I promise

We officially have a new address!

Well the last few weeks we have all been consumed with finding a new place to live. As of last night we officially have moved into our new rental abode (cross fingers the owners don't sell this one!!) and no longer have an attachment to the last house!! I must say I think we were all relieved last night when we sat down with only one house to our name! Now all we have to do is unpack, organise and settle!! Oh the joys of moving.

The kids think it has been such an adventure - a new bedroom, a new house, a new garden to explore and are already asking if they can change schools as we have actually moved quite close to another primary school. Not sure on that idea but will make the effort to investigate the closer school! Who knows - maybe the kids could do with a change also!

I am actually looking forward to finishing the move. Although this next stage of unpacking, sorting and organising will take awhile I cannot wait to have a "welcome to our new house" get together with our friends. The new house has a fantastic outdoor area and I know we will get many hours of enjoyment out of it.

A bit shout out to our friends, Julien, Deb, Lenny and Dave who help us move... great effort guys! Noel and I know we have hoarded to much $hit over the years and really appreciated your help over the last few days.... we really owe it to you all!!!

Must fly - still lots to do.......aaaarrrrggghhhh!!!

Time flies when you are having fun????

They say “time flies when you are having fun” but I am of the belief that time just flies by regardless. Well at least that is what I am finding!

Since Christmas, yes you read correctly, since Christmas so much has happened. In fact I am in awe that it is May know and I am actually attempting to update this blog. It seems like only yesterday it was Christmas but the fact that I am feeling older and exhausted only confirms that there have been many days since my last entry.

In a nutshell lots of things have happened.

Firstly we survived Christmas and New Year, which is always a good thing. My Mam stayed in Queensland this year as my sister and her brood went to visit her. I am glad they made the effort but saddened that I was so far away from my mam. Saying that our house was full with all of Noel’s family and also had the pleasure of Sharon and Tom’s company. The whole festive season went off without a hitch last year. It is a wonderful time, a time of sharing and giving, a time that I thoroughly enjoy and even though it can be stressful I honestly look forward to it every year.

School holidays were also conquered as was the beginning of a new school year with one child in grade 5 and the other settling in grade 2. Both seem to be enjoying there new year levels and for Oliver he is attempting the challenges set by being in a higher level some with hesitation and some with no willing to attempt but I must say we are “getting there”. Alex, who has the same teacher again this year, just felt as if nothing had changed and got on with the task at hand!

Birthdays have been had by all of us. Mine was celebrated at the Balnarring Races and were both the kids this year. Alex had a party at home and Oliver had a couple of friends over. My heart went out for Oliver as his birthday fell right in the middle of school holiday’s and brought memories back to me about how I felt that my birthday party was never full of my friends only relatives and some family friends who were mostly my parent’s friends as I was born in early January. Our house was full for Noel’s birthday followed by a lunch at our favourite Chinese Restaurant with the family.

Alex broke a bone in her foot, tripping over at a shopping centre in the carpark. She spent 6 weeks in plaster. This has since been removed and the poor little chickadee is returning to normality as far as walking, running, etc., is concerned. That was definitely an interesting 6 weeks and the recovery process has been a concern at times especially when you have a 7 year old milking the situation. She was hobbling and saying that she couldn’t walk, really playing on it one day. She went into her bedroom, put on her music and started dancing!! Yes, dancing. When realising that she was caught out she immediately returned to hobbling as if Noel hadn’t seen a thing. The good news is that we had a second x-ray done and the doctor was quite happy with her progress.

Mam came down for a visit over Easter – we were meant to go camping but with Alex breaking her foot it somewhat changed the plans of the whole family. Whilst here she stayed with us a lot this time and was a blessing helping look after the kids whilst Noel and I both worked. Sadly one day while she was babysitting, she has a very mini heart attack, which scared the life out of me, lead to Mam spending a night in hospital for observation and for one moment the situation actually brought me and my sister a little closer. The feeling unfortunately hasn’t lasted with my sister’s car being written off by a falling tree in the hospital car park, Mam returning back to Queensland and my life returning to some form of normality. (If you read this Mam – I just want to let you know that I love you and I am thinking about you every day. MWAH!!!)

Sunday football has also commenced although my role as treasurer for the Junior Football Club started way before the season kick off. I am enjoying it but must say it is rather time consuming. I am sure that next year will be a lot easier as I will know what I have learnt so far and what I wasn’t told about or prepared for! Noel is also the Under 10’s team manager, which is giving him some focus and I am sure Oliver is really proud of him – I know that I am. Oliver is playing okay and I know in my heart that when he is ready he will shine.

Auskick is up and running under the firm hand of the new co-ordintor, Sharon. I have been helping her as we are trying to affliate the Auskick with the Junior Club but more importantly because she is my closest friend. She is doing an absolutely fantastic job and has increased the numbers significantly from last year. I am sure the whole club with join me in saying “well done” for her efforts to date. Plus I think that she is totally enjoying the challenge. Needless to say Alex is easing herself back into playing football!

So needless to say the last few months haven’t been boring! Who knows what tomorrow will bring???

Merry Christmas to one and all....

Wow - where has the time gone?? It only seems like yesterday that the thought of Christmas entered into my head. With a blink of an eye all the planning, preparation and layby's are a thing of the past and now we are left to clean the house, eat leftovers and hope for five minutes to relax!!

All went well at the Murray household with my in laws coming over Christmas Eve and only leaving today (Boxing Day). My parents-in-laws, Ann and Ged, and sister-in-law, Clare came over and slept. I feelprivileged to have such a wonderful relationship with Noel's family and that they are such an important part of not only my children's life but of my life also.

Christmas Eve was a hub of excitement - busy preparing for Christmas Day lunch, cooking the turkey and of course the never ending job of wrapping presents while two children slept dreaming of what wonderful surprises will be under the tree the next morning. During the evening we had a wonderful Seafood supper (crayfish, prawns, oysters and calamari) as we do every year.

All the festivities started with the mammoth effort of opening Christmas presents after two children excitedly but frustratingly waited for the rest of the household to wake up! We definately have the making of the next children's band with Oliver receiving a guitar and Alex receiving an electronic keyboard plus harmonica's for them both. Not to mention brand new bikes and lots of other items to hopefully keep them occupied for the next 12 months.

Christmas dinner (at lunchtime of course) went off without a hitch!! We had a zucchini and basil soup for entree followed by the traditional dinner and as usual it was with all the trimmings.... turkey, cranberry sauce, roast pork with crackle and apple sauce, potatoes, carrots, parsnips and brussel sprouts, sage and onion stuffing and rich gravy. Everyone was so full that pudding etc wasn't served until around 9pm at night!

Overall I think the Murray family enjoyed their Christmas and I hope everyone else did also.

Somebody please press the pause button!

Wow cannot believe it has been two weeks between posts - it is like the days are passing on fast forward.

We have survived the long weekend and another spring racing carnival with the Melbourne Cup being run yesterday. Wow the weather was perfect and Alex managed to back the winning horse. We spent the afternoon at a friend's house indulging in spit roasted lamb, salads and good company making it very hard to return to the normality of working and school this morning.

Chat soon I promise!

Always busy.....

You’ve got to love a busy weekend? Sounds strange I know – but I love having a busy weekend especially when the family is involved (although it does go too fast!)

Noel and I both worked on Saturday so the kids went and stayed at Nana and Grandad’s house on Friday night with me meeting them at Tom’s birthday party on Saturday. Oliver went to the party but it was definately an all boys affair so Alex and I went shopping to keep her occupied.. mind you after the party was over I still had to do the grocery shopping must to the dismay of the children!!

Saturday night was just us – having a bbq which the kids help prepare. It was good to spend some quiet time with them plus I know that they both love cooking and helping out in the kitchen.

Sunday – a little sleep-in was had – but it was up and getting ready for a busy day. We were off to the Langwarrin Communtiy Festival with Nana and Grandad. Just as we were parking our car Noel recieved a phone call from Sean to say he was on his way – geez it made for a wonderful afternoon. Cruden Farm is a beautiful place and it was fantastic to spend the afternoon with our family. Christian is just a gorgeous baby, Oliver and Alex absolutely adore him and I enjoyed my cuddle and having the chance to feed him. The Festival was very busy and the weather was perfect. Will definately be going again next year.

I love travelling but I also love home!!

I survived my work trip to Hobart but although I love travelling I really love being home too.

It was great to see Noel and the kids again although Oliver found the Nintendo DS more interesting than the fact that I was home, Alex found my presents for them within 2 minutes of my arrival, I did however manage a kiss off my husband and a conversation about my trip.

Finally good to relax at home, we had our first bbq for “summer” (I know that it hasn’t officially started) the evening was nice and we sat on the back verandah to eat our meal. The four of us ending the evening with a spa topped off my day.

We are back online!!!

The computer became slower and slower, getting on-line was a major issue so the computer ended up in the hands of the computer fix-it man!! Apparently something had corrupted our Windows system causing some programs to run normally and others to be painful! But all is good now…. We are once again happy in the House of Murray – well at least with the computer anyway!

So in our absence – quite a lot has happened… too much to type as this post would be huge.

But in a nutshell….

· Grandma had her 60th birthday – big shout out to her!! Well done. It was a shame that I couldn’t get up there but with faced with the chance of Noel’s losing his job and the cost etc it was a really hard decision to make but Mam was alright with it. Well at least she keeps saying so. I still feeling like a really bad daughter though.
· We survived school holidays with the kids spending most of the two weeks with their Nana and Grandad – who, as always, spoil them rotten.
· I have been out and about training in the country quarries even to Mildura last week and I am off to Hobart this week (only for two days/one night).
· Noel’s overtime has started again due to the fact that the company retrenched 31 people the week before. Now Noel is doing 11 hr days – go figure ?!?!?
· Baby Christian is doing really well – as are Sean and Vicky. They seem to be getting the hang of the “baby” thing now.
· I became “Treasurer” of the Karingal Bulls Junior Football Club
· Sharon became “Co-ordinator” of the Karingal Auskick
· The kids had their school chocolate fundraiser last term and sold $ 480 worth of chocolates (much to the help of the truck drivers at my work!!) but an amazing effort for my two angels!!
· Currently I am in the middle of completing an upgrade to my Certificate IV in Trainer and Assessor… intense classroom work in the Melbourne (bang smack in the middle of the city), which I will finish in January 2008 and I even have to complete and assessment task.

So just let’s say that life has been good, still full of surprises and we are enjoying ourselves as best we can…

A busy yet productive weekend.

This weekend was the first weekend without an 8.20am start Sunday morning due to U9's football - we did however have Auskick at 9am but that extra few minutes in bed were great.

As usual Saturday morning I worked, leaving Noel to battle our two monsters at home whilst cleaning etc. Then it was the usual trip shopping Saturday afternoon. Noel and I cleaned out the bbq area and had our first bbq in our new place. Yummo T Bones and I cannot beleive the kids ate a full one each!! We then all had a spa which was great as a family.

Sunday as mentioned was Auskick followed by another visit to the hospital to see our newest family member for more photos. Vicky was up and around which was great to see and we chatted and had a big hug. I told her it had been too long and she agreed. Once again though not holding my breath but praying that things will change. We spoke to Mam M and to Clare and they were thrilled with the photo's I took on my phone as was my Mam.

Back to normal today.......

Baby Christian.

Welcome into the world baby Christian.

Our first nephew on Noel’s side and I must admit he is absolutely adorable. He was born 11.09am yesterday the 17th August.

We all went to visit the happy family last night. I always find it wonderful to hold someone so new to this world. I find myself wishing that that find peace, happiness and safety as they grown through life’s journey – a journey that none of us know where it will lead or when it will end.

Alex and Oliver were totally mesmorized by Christian and both were very upset to leave the hospital. Noel and I will think about taking them back on Sunday for another visit if that’s alright with the new parents.

Seeing Vicky, hours after childbirth, and holding baby Christian made me stand back and appreciate life. Life is too short to spend all of our time focussed on arguing. I am hoping that Christian’s arrival will bring the family back together and I know that is something that Sean wants also. Vicky told us that she really appreciated us visiting her. I honestly hope she did. I am crossing fingers that this is a new era for the Murray family!!

Tell me why Monday comes around so fast????

Wow another week has flown by – I cannot believe how fast things are travelling. Is it a sign that I am getting old?

Anyway the fact that we had a busy Sunday once again didn’t help with football being the focus. The Karingal Bulls U9 Whites played at Edithvale-Aspendale grounds and we WON!! Oliver tried quite hard and is really starting to show interest and confidence on the field. He put his hand up to help play for the Under 10’s – for the second week in a row now. Playing well and quite excited he surprised us all by kicking a goal in the 4th quarter! Woohoo and the best part of it was that his coach from the U9’s was there to watch!!!

As for me well I had a busy week. I spent Wednesday through to Friday at Carisbrook (which is 10kms east of Maryborough). It was nice driving through the lush green countryside, seeing all the animals and the open wide landscape. But it was bloody cold when I got out of the car. Great to catch up with all on site especially Andrew and Tracy who were based here in Melbourne but Andrew took a job transfer. Hopefully I didn’t spread too many bad habits when it came to training and that they will invite me back again.

Better go lots to do and see…. No only joking as I am at work and have lots of paperwork to catch up on.

Jo xx

What a weekend......

I am actually glad that it is Monday and we are back into the weekly routine of school and work. The weekend was huge and I am sitting here at work totally shattered!

Saturday was a massive day with me working in the morning, followed by a little bit of shopping and cooking THEN it was the school’s trivia night. WOW that was fun. Only 7 of us on the table this year – Noel and myself, Sharon, Mat and Anne Marie along with first timers Naomi and Gab (friends from our crèche days). We came 2nd which we have never even been close to before! Noel and I won the silent auction for the “Robert Harvey” signed football and team poster. We also managed to score a night out at a hotel in South Yarra (la-de-da) – now we have sorted out what to do for our wedding anniversary! Sharon on the other hand went bazzerk with her bets and took home a trailer load of stuff – thankfully Mat and Anne Marie brought their ute! A very, very late night but it was quite enjoyable.

Sunday almost killed me! Yes ME! The alarm went off at 7am as Oliver had an away match for football meaning he had to be at the ground at 8.20am. Noel was in no state to drive so instead of doing Auskick with Alex (which is local) I took Oliver to his football match in Mt Eliza only to find that when we got there the fixture was wrong and he was actually playing at Overport Road Grounds… aaarrrgghhh! But I am so pleased I went as Oliver (or Ollie as he wants to be known now thanks to the footy club) kicked the 1st goal of the match – what a STAR! He then went on to play in the Under 10’s game as they were short 4 players and set up 2 goals for them. I will tell you I was such a proud mam yesterday. Once football was over with – it was off to a birthday party for Oliver which was good fun. Alex had gone off to Sharon’s for the day so we picked her up and finally walked in the door to relax at 4.30pm. Needless to say the rest was short lived as we were back up the football club for 6pm!

Bed was sooooooo good when I got in it…..and you can probably guess it didn’t take long to go to sleep!!

Normality?

Well the demons have finally been let loose to go and play with somebody else’s mind for now - hopefully it will be a long time before they return! Sanity will prevail most times. It just takes varying lengths of time depending on the person and the situation. Now that my world seems to be back to normal (well as normal as it can be) I can now return my focus onto me and of course, my family.

Mam has gone back to Brisbane and is probably enjoying the peace and quiet. I felt really sorry for her while she was here as still had to deal with me and my emotions. Some things needed to be spoken about and others were just hard to deal with BUT we all got through it in the end. So a big shot out to my mam especially for looking after the kids for the school holidays and for putting up with me!!

So what else has happened since my last blog….

*My sister celebrated her 30th birthday.
*Oliver’s football is getting better – Grandma even got to watch a game.
*Alex and Oliver both played in a grid match at half time of our seniors game at Frankston YCW. Grandma was there to cheer them all on and was amazed at the atmosphere that surrounds a VFL match especially when the seniors were on the field.

Coming up this weekend is….. (as usual another busy one)

*Trivia night on Saturday night (last year was huge and lots of fun)
*Oliver is playing an away game on Sunday morning down at Mt Eliza
*Alex has auskick Sunday morning also.
*Oliver has a birthday party on Sunday afternoon
*Football club Sunday evening

So that should keep the House of Murray busy this weekend......

Grandma is the best!!

All is going well at the House of Murray. The kids are still enjoying having Grandma around (so do I). It is great that for once they are having Grandma all to themselves while Noel and I are at work. My house is clean, which is a miracle in itself, we are having a yummy dinner everynight (thanks Mam) and it has been wonderful to sit down chatting the night away with her. The school holidays have been great, doing some fun things out and about but have also stayed home with Grandma catching up on all the recent released movies. Mam has caught up with Claires a few times since she has been down. Alex and Oliver think it is wonderful that they have been able to see their cousins several times in the last week.

It has rain quite a bit this last week. I love waking up in the early hours of the morning and seeing raindrops on trees especially in the light of the moon or by the street lamp. I have been starting work early to help the boys out plus the overtime pay is a bonus! Haha The quarry is so muddy but the rains are producing lush green grass surrounding the pit. Everything is starting to look nice and healthy.

I came to the realisation yesterday that things are never going to be how I dreamed they would be, how I hoped they would be and how I want them to be. Now I just need to get on with the life I have and this is going to mean making some harsh decisions. I have to think long and hard about these choices as they are going to shape the rest of my life, my relationships and more importantly my family.

My mam is staying with us until Monday morning then she is off to Claire’s. She will go home from Claire’s and as she is at Claire’s next week we probably won’t see her –SO THAT MEANS THIS WEEKEND HAS TO BE SPECIAL!!

Two weeks have gone..... where?

We are here – just been wrapped up in ourselves for awhile and completely ran out of time to blog… which is a good thing as it means we have been doing lots of things out and about and at home. Cannot believe it has been two weeks since I last wrote… oh well!!!!

As many are aware it is school holidays down here in Victoria and the kids are having a ball. This school holidays my Mam has come down from Brisbane to help us out with babysitting. Beside the fact that she is freezing I am sure that she is enjoying spending the quality time with Oliver and Alexandria. Normally during Mam’s visits she spends all weekdays with Claire and the weekends at the House of Murray. This time the make up of her time distribution is totally different and I must admit, selfishly, we are all enjoying having her at our house.

Speaking of the house – it was miraculously cleaned over the weekend prior to Mam’s arrival and I have a dining room!! Yes we can see the floor and the table and the bookshelf and the computer desk. It was definitely tiring and painful especially as we threw away a lot of memories I had been “hoarding” as Noel calls it. Whereas I call it “collecting”! Mind you – although it was heart wrenching to throw away letters and cards etc., I felt quite good afterwards and there is quite a substantial amount of clutter gone. With Mam being down I caught up with my sister on Wednesday. Mam, the kids and I went to Claire’s on Wednesday so she could catch up with Mam. It was good to see her and the boys. It makes me realise how much I miss seeing her on a regular basis and now I need to work out how I can make it happen. I don’t know what she thinks or how she feels as I haven’t ever come out and asked her. Maybe I need to do that but I am scared she will tell me something I don’t want to hear. It would break my heart if she told me that she didn’t want me to be a part of her life even though that is the way it is when my Mam is out of town. The only time we really tend to see each other is when Mam is down – other than that it is like I (or my family) don’t exist.

No football this weekend so that made a different kind of Sunday. We spent the day driving around the peninsula – we started at the Dromana Drive In Market, which was such a flop with only 8 stalls due to the bad weather. Then we had a look around Rosebud and the beaches (although we all stayed in the car much to the disgust of Oliver and Alex who wanted to get out and go down to the sand). Last night we had dinner at the Frankston RSL which was kind of disappointing food wise but great to catch up with Sharon again.

Back to work today.......

It's Tuesday already....

So much has happened, is happening and will happen I don’t really know where to start….

Sharon had her housewarming party on Saturday night. It was great fun and also wonderful to put faces to her friend’s names as we had heard so much about them. I believe the party finished up at 2am but we were long gone due to Oliver’s football the Sunday morning.

Mam has had her birthday (Happy Birthday for the 24th June) and loved her I-Pod that Dad gave her. She was very surprised and impressed with the songs that we programmed on for her. They both seemed to be enjoying there holiday so far and loving the electric blanket that we all bought mam for her birthday. The nights have been cold so it was a brilliant present.

Oliver played well with his football even managing to get a free kick and did some wonderful bumping. Daniel the coach was quite happy with the team’s performance. Alex didn’t go to Auskick so we all went to watch Oliver play. I think he liked the fact that we were all there with him.

I have finally done something with my hair. I got it cut short at the back and the left but have left the fringe and right had side a little longer. I quite like it but it is a little modern and taking awhile to get used to. At least it looks heaps and I mean heaps better than the bob with the “flying nun” side curls.

Parent/teacher interviews went really well last night. Alex is doing okay but needs to refrain from stirring up a couple of the boys in her class (apparently she knows which are the best to target!) and has to learn to take responsibility for her actions. Besides the fact that she is a very dominant child she is working really well and teacher is very happy. Oliver’s teacher too is happy and is glad that he has made some clear improvements since last year (big sigh of relief from Noel and myself). Overall he is doing good and needs to focus on organising himself better and overall achieving a larger amount of work completed.

We received an invitation for my sister, Claire’s, 30th birthday present in the mail yesterday. It is the only contact made since the phone conversation and my card. So don’t know what to really think. Mam is due to arrive next Tuesday and I don’t even know what is happening with that.

Enough rambling (definitely caught up with everything – I hope!)

Families - what the??????

FINALLY a breakthrough!

Sean has spoken with Mam and Dad before they left on their trip up north. He has told them that he would really appreciate his parents being there at the birth of his first child. Vicky has realised that the situation we have all been living this last 12 months isn’t going to go away.

I am not sure how things will change but at least something is happening.

A lot of bridge to cross yet but I am sure "the Murray's" as a family unit we will get there!

My side on the otherhand looks absolutely hopeless!!!

aaaaarrrrrgggghhhhhh!!!!

My sister Claire!

My life is becoming consumed with guilt and sadness over the relationship that my sister and I have.

I am sure that she hates me and for some reason I don’t blame her.

We don’t live that far away from each other but it might as well be separate continents for all the times we see each other.

I know that the two of us are both very different people. I would just really love to be able to pop in to her house, have a cuppa and a chat. I would really love her to pop in to my house and do the same. It would be great to go shopping together – I wouldn’t even care if it were just for groceries!

I sent her a card the other day. In fact it went in the post box on Monday 11th June. It was a blank card – inside I wrote that I was thinking of her, that I was proud of her and that I love her. I also said I was sorry that we weren’t close, not sure why we aren’t but would like to be.

Claire hasn’t mentioned it at all!

I know that I haven’t been the best sister but I hate feeling like I don’t have a sister at all!

Sunday's ups and downs.....

Wow - what a day Sunday was.

Up early once again for Under 9's football and Auskick. Great catching up with Sharon for a chat whilst Tom and Alex run their little legs off at a mock grid match. Then we went over to clubrooms to see how Oliver and the Under 9 White's went with their match - they lost. But Oliver seemed to enjoy himself.

We all went for lunch with Mam and Dad - Sophia's in Frankston. But for some reason today it was awful. Other times we have been so impressed and recommended the food etc to everyone... yesterday really changed our minds. The first waiter looked liked he was really doing a lot but in actual fact he wasn't doing anything. Took away a bottle of wine to be opened and I swear it was about 10 minutes before it came back. The entree of calamari was rubbery and greasy. Mam and dad's pizza base looked very doughy and undercooked, my pasta was fairly tasteless whereas Noel's rib-eye was probably the best meal ordered except for the overcooked vegetables. Even my pasta devouring kids turned their noses up at the lasagne!! Guess where we won't be going again???

Then it was back up to the clubrooms (6pm) for the game reports and awards presentation.

Up at the football club, Noel and I are starting to get to know more and more of the committee members, coaches and the regulars. Last night was a really great night up the club. For not only did I publish the first newsletter for the Karingal Bulls (hopefully it was up to standard) but both Noel and I left the club as really proud parents. Oliver was given the Bull of the Week award for his on ground performance. He received a medal (will publish photo tomorrow) which he wore with pride all night and it took me a while to get it from around his neck whilst yelling at him to go to bed! Alex was really proud of her brother also but insisted that she share in the glory and had to have a turn of wearing it around her neck... lol!!

But Oliver recieving his award changed everyone's outlook on the whole day!! Well done Oliver - you make us all very proud.

Gotta fly.

The dreaded lurggies.......

This week has flown by. Tuesday I had a huge onset of the flu, which is still lingering today, but I am back at work. Alex was also sick yesterday – my poor little princess coughing most of Wednesday evening and Thursday. We both went to the doctors yesterday and have both got a course of antibiotics to follow. Luckily for Alex her’s is a syrup whereas my tablets are the size of horse tranquillisers!! Thankfully Noel and Oliver have missed this bug – touch wood.

Should be having a quiet weekend with nothing major planned at all except it’s back to football on Sunday (it was ace having a sleep in last Sunday). I think we will be catching up with Mam and Dad for lunch on Sunday also as they have postponed their departure until Tuesday as they too have had the dreaded lurggies.

A satisfyingly full weekend.....

Hhhhmmmm once again another weekend has come and gone - this one was quite different as it was the Queen's birthday long weekend and it was very enjoyable.

As per usual I worked on Saturday morning. I don't mind working then especially if Noel is home as this gives him some one on one time with the kids. They love spending time with their dad. We decided to have an indian feast for dinner, a few curries, some rice and some bread. Noel and the kids went to Dandenong and bought some of the most delish naan bread from a takeaway shop. We cooked Butter Chicken, Chicken Korma and Noel cooked a special Pork Vindaloo for me and him. The whole dinner was yummy but as usual cooked way too much curry.

Sunday was quite an exciting day - one we had all looked forward to for a few weeks. Mam and Dad were treating the whole family for lunch at the Cuckoo Restaurant in Olinda. I had not been before while the Murray clan had.

It was a good smorgasboard and the kids really loved the entertainment especially Oliver who took part in the bell ringing song! Alex was enthralled with the yodelling. Sean drove which meant both Dad and Noel could relax.

We stayed the night at Mam and Dad's then, another thing we don't do that often. It was good just to relax, chat and spend quality time with them as they go away this Saturday. And yes we had left over curry for supper.

Monday the kids has an Auskick Super Clinic up at St Kilda's home ground, Moorabbin. The kids were really excited all morning as they have met the St Kilda boys before. Alex was looking forward to seeing Brett Voss again. She definately goes weak at the knees when he talks to her. Oliver was just in his element running and kicking the balls amongst his idols. He showed so much confidence and ability - geez I wish he could do that Sunday mornings when he is playing Under 9's!!

Oliver the footy star!!

It looks like Tom and Alex are sizing up their oppositions - other grade 1 children!!!!

Last night was just a quiet one at home - back to reality. Did some shopping, some washing, some homework and then it was off to bed. And bed felt good!!!

No school today

Today is a pupil free day for the kids so it was off to Nana’s and Grandad’s home very early. As the two of them were excited about going for the day there wasn’t much resistance this morning and the fact that it was dad that was taking them I knew there was going to be no arguments or going slow. They got up and got ready. Noel will bring them home tonight when he finishes work.

Oliver and Alex both love their new beanies!!

Life is too short!

Last night I received a phone call from one of my fellow workers. It was a phone call that I was waiting for and the content was of an expected sadness. Stuart, a lovely bloke, had been crushed with devastating news Monday that his sister in law was in hospital after collapsing at work. She had been on life support since then and passed away Wednesday afternoon. I have spent many hours thinking about Stuart and his family. It is bad enough to lose a family member or friend due to old age but Stuart’s loved one was only 33. My heart goes out to Stuart, his brother, his nephew who is only 5 and of course to their immediate families.

It also got me to thinking geez I am only 36.

I spend far too long dwelling over things that have happened and way to much time stressing about things I have no control over. I have honestly realised that I need to lower my expectations and standards that I put on everything. If I don’t I will end up dying being miserable and disappointed in the life that I did lead.

I am going to contact my sister, Claire. I don’t see her at all, only a chance meeting here and there at the moment unless something is planned and it really hurts me. I don’t understand why we are not close. I use to love going bowling together. We laughed and chatted away. I miss her. I need to tell her that I love her and that I am really proud of all she has achieved. I will endeavour to make peace and try to organise getting together.

My mam knows I love her – I tell her all the time. In fact I can’t wait for her to arrive in Melbourne in June. I am long overdue on a hug. And she deserves one too.

A “BIG” shout out to my sister in law, Clare, in Sydney. She knows I think the world of her and we chat regular. Unfortunately don’t see enough of each other either but certainly make up for it when we do get together.

Mam and Dad (Noel’s parents) have been great to me and I really appreciate their love and support. They are off on holidays in the weekend after next and they will be missed. I hope that they really enjoy their holiday up north. Not sure at this stage what date they are expected back – probably when the cold weather has gone away. Can’t say I blame them really.

My only wish is that the rift in the Murray family could be sorted and unfortunately I cannot do anything to help that – it is all up to Vicky now. We can’t make her do anything she doesn’t want to and at the moment she doesn’t see what here actions are doing. Very soon she will be giving birth to her first child and her whole world is going to change. It will be very sad for Sean that day as I don’t think he will have the support of his family at such a wonderful moment in his life - that’s really horrible to say but the reality is that it is because of the situation we are all in at the present…….

Don’t know where this whole situation is going to go but I do know…..

LIFE IS DEFINATELY TOO SHORT TO DO NOTHING!

Home safely - but totally shattered!

Finally got home at around 4.30pm after a long boring drive from Diggers Rest via Parkdale to pick up the kids from Mam and Dad. Good to see familiar faces mind you the fact that mam was home led the good behaviour to last only as far as the end of the court!! I thought while I was out I would grab some groceries and be able to get home and relax!!

AS IF!!!!!!!!!

The kids were ratty all through the shops - whinging about this, moaning about that!!

Got through the front door, frustrated and just about to kill 2 children. Unpacked the groceries, the kids bags, my bags and found the wine in the fridge!! Just about to start to relax and then it was "Mam what's for dinner?" aaaaarrrrrrgggggghhhhhhh - the joys!!

Sunday busy busy once again with football and auskick but managed to do some cleaning and just about all the clothes washing.

Big star for Alex as she actually cleaned her room when I asked her to plus she did a great job!! Oliver's room managed to stay exactly the same!!

I am nearly home....

I have spent the last 3 days in Bendigo doing some training with the staff up at our Axedale Quarry. I am now sitting here working the weighbridge at Diggers Rest as a favour to a very nice manager and foreman. They put me up in Sunbury for the night and I have a lovely meal at an Italian restaurant. It was good to have company last night as travelling alone can be boring.

BUT I am so looking forward to getting home and seeing Noel, Oliver, Alex and my bed!!! Living it up in hotels is okay but there is no place like home - hey Toto???

Why do my kids go slow when I need them to go fast?

Once again this morning I found myself yelling “Hurry up, mam is going to be late for work AGAIN!!” to my two little darlin’s. It seems the minute I say “hurry” they take it as “That’s right darlin’ you go as slow as you want – it doesn’t matter!” I am really lucky that I have a good boss that doesn’t pull me up on the 5 minutes here or 20 minute there. God – most bosses would have had me sacked and long gone.

It really doesn’t matter to children what time things happen especially if it doesn’t really involve them. The fact that I have a routine that needs to be stuck to isn’t an issue compared to lying on the floor infront of the heater or playing with Barbies in the bedroom.

But geez you should see the faces if I don’t give them uniform that has been warmed in the dryer. Or if I haven’t put their favourite snack in the lunchboxes. Or if they realise at 5 to 7am that they haven’t got anything organised for Show and Tell and I don’t let them get something!!

I am so over yelling at them especially first thing in the morning.

Aaaaarrrrrrgggggghhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!

Needless to say I think their dad will be having a little chat to them tonight!

GO WALES! Cymru am byth!

Geez my head isn't screwed on this morning......

What an effort Wales made on Saturday night. Thankfully Sydney had a live telecast and sis could keep me up to speed with the scores otherwise I would have struggled to stay up until 11.30pm to watch it here on Channel 7 Melbourne (boohoo to them).

It is a shame that they lost but it was a great game. I being one very tired supporter from working Saturday morning watch the replays and snippets on the Sunday news and sports shows.

Well done Lads - Llongyfarchiadau!

Cymru am byth!

Already Monday?

Another weekend has flown past and as usual we tried to fit so much into those couple of precious days.

Stressed out over my car - the battery has been dying every couple of days in the last week so we were up for a new battery and my magna is now working okay!! Touch wood and I am not going to speak to loud incase it hears me and wants to stress me out a little more by getting something else not to work!!

Football was great the Karingal Bulls Whites (Oliver's team) won again. They played away at Seaford so that was good - that's 2 wins from 4 games. Let's hope they keep the momentum up. Alex had a brilliant go at Auskick. Once again they had another grid match and my star princess kick 2 goals before getting a football to the side of her head. Then she showed us she really was a princess and cried for the rest of the session!!! Poor little thing!! All was fixed with a bucket of hot chips and a can of coke from the club canteen!! Of course. Tom also had a great Auskick session and was awarded the canteen award for his efforts.

Oh almost forgot - even managed to unpack a couple of boxes (made more of a mess mind you) but we are getting there.

Our blog is no longer a secret!!

Good morning all,

Yesterday I made the decision to share my blog with some of my family. I haven't told them all but I did tell my sister in law, Clare, and my mam. Sounds strange that I can share the happenings in the House of Murray with the world but have been worried about sharing this blogspot with my family. Maybe I felt they would think of me as a little wierd posting information for anyone to see - but it would just be like anyone finding a personal diary and having a good old read of it whilst drinking a cuppa!! Right?

Last night went so quickly - bur we managed to achieve a lot.

The kids and I managed to fit so many things into a few hours before getting home by 7pm! I left work to take Oliver and myself off to the doctors. Oliver has a sore throat and just looks under the weather. He has been given a course of anti-biotics so we will see how they go. Myself, not as easily fixed, blood pressure is still up high and have been told it is back to monthly BP checks and to lose weight (which I am trying to do). But other than that I am okay. Also I am trying a new cream for my psorisis which has become really bad on my elbows and knees!! Alex said she has a sore nostril but I am convinced that is just from always having her finger up her nose!! LOL!!

Then it was off to the Mitsubishi dealer to get a new zapper for my car security and also for them to reset my car radio.... I definately need music whilst driving!! My battery shorted the other day and cut out the radio which needed a code to reset. Of course this code wasn't written in any of my service books - that would be too logical.

After this, we all headed up to the local shopping centre so I could have my nails refilled. Alex is amazed at the whole process of false nails. She sat there watching in awe asking a never ending supply of questions. The lady painted Alex's nails after mine were finished and she walked around like a princess for the rest of the shopping trip. We grabbed a few groceries and it was off home.

Must admit totally shattered by the time dinner was cooked and the kids settled. Off to bed I went and as I do every Saturday morning was at work for 6am!

Still crossing fingers on having a quiet weekend....... might have a nana-nap this afternoon!!

A Mid Week Treat!!

Cannot believe it's Friday already. Wow what a week so far - it's been all go in the House of Murray!

There has been so much going on - on sooooo many different levels. Work is busy for us both, Oliver has been in strife at school, currently Alex has an attitude of an 18 year old, my sleep has been crap and the weather, well what can I say - it doesn't even know what it is doing!

So to chill ourselves out it was dinner at the local Chinese last night.... yum!!!

These are the two most important men in my life!!!

And here are the Murray girls.....

Thankfully a quiet weekend has been planned whether it remains quiet will be interesting!!! Hopefully I will get to unpack a few of the remaining boxes that are living in our dining room as the house is stressing me out a little at the moment.

Chat soon!

I think the cold wind has settled in...

Cannot believe how cold yesterday was - the wind definately had the winter chill feel about it. I think we may have a cold winter but like many still not so sure about the amount of rain that winter will bring. Today seems to be a little nicer. Although the wind was very icy this morning, the sun is out and starting to put a glow over the land.

Quite a quiet evening in our household last night. The usual homework, dinner, bath and bed for the kids while both Noel and I were completely shattered from the weekend.

I have decided to refocus on my diet/lifestyle and changes are being made as of today! So watch out family... no more junk or crap we are all going to become healthier.

You mean the weekend is over??

Once again the weekend has disappeared with a blink of the eye!!

It is amazing that although we do tend to do a lot each weekend we never really get anything done...

• we are still unpacking boxes but they just don't seem to disappear
• the quicker I clean the house the quicker it gets messed up
• the faster I go to sleep the faster I wake up...

Anyway enough rambling...

Saturday was a great afternoon. Alexandria had her halftime grid match at the Bulls home ground and she played really well. All of us (Noel, Oliver and myself) we really proud of her effort.

Here is Alex with her best friend Tom. They have been inseperable since creche. They are in the same class at school and play Auskick together ever Sunday morning.

Oliver played football really well this weekend and it was topped off with the fact that his team, U9's Karingal whites won their first match. Noel and I were also stoked when Oliver got given an award last night for a great effort during the game. I am a proud Mam!!

So much has happened - where do we begin??

Well where do I start..... it has been so long since I posted and that is only because we as a family have been flat chat.

Since we last spoke it has just been one episode after another - seriously putting the "Days of Our Lives" plot to shame.

We have moved house. Only about 5 streets from the last place but none the less everything needed to be packed and of course, unpacked!! We needless to say we moved the first weekend in March and still have a few boxes floating around requiring attention.

Work has been busy for the both of us. My travelling to country/interstates sites is spasmotic with another 3 day trip coming up in two weeks. Noel has been doing all the overtime he can get but that too is irregular with noting set in concrete.

Still having the "family" argument with Noel's brother's wife.... she doesn't want anything to do with her husbands side of the family even though they have announced that they are expecting a child at the end of August. No matter what we try as a family she believes that she has done nothing wrong and is apparantly happy with having no contact. It is really tearing the family apart and I really feel for Noel's Mam and Dad.

As for my side of the family it is really not that much better. I don't see my sister from one week to the next - even Mother's day was a flop with a quick 10 minute catch up at the local football club and even that wasn't loving or sisterly. Our aunty flew into Melbourne for a family visit but didn't visit either my sister or me...... hmmmm obviously we are not classed as "family" anymore. She managed to see the other neices and nephews! But I am not going to complain as there is no point. I am just really glad that my Mam and I have a wonderful relationship now but then there is the fact that she is too far away to hug all the time.

Anyways facing another busy weekend - Alex is in an Auskick Grid Match at halftime in the seniors match today so that should be a laugh. Oliver is playing Under 9's football for the Karingal Bulls again this year and is playing at his home ground tomorrow morning.

Chat soon,

Jo

A relaxing Sunday outing.

Yesterday we had a really interesting and different day.

We had planned to go to Ocean Beach down Flinders but it didn’t seem warm enough. So we took Mam up to Springvale for a look around and then had some lunch in a Vietnamese restaurant we had been to before.

It was quite a different atmosphere to what she is used to. As we all know most chinese restaurants cater for the Eastern world and have ventured from their traditions but when you get into a small café style restaurant where the majority of patrons are asian it’s all different. She ate with eye’s wide open staring from table to table looking at what other’s were ordering. It was fun just to watch Mam.

Then we went off to the Carribbean Gardens Market. Hadn’t been there for I don’t know how many years! It seemed to be a lot bigger and the kids seemed handle walking around the stalls okay. However their moods changed when we finally went and had a look around the gardens. We went on the jungle cruise, quite comical for us adults, but the kids had a ball.

Mam is off to Claire’s today for another week. Still not sure when she is planning to go back to Brisbane. The kids are off to Nana and Grandad’s for the week so the house will definitely be quiet for Noel and I…….

Looking forward to getting some sleep and yes I mean sleep!

It was just AWESOME!

My mam is officially a bikie chick!!!

On Saturday night good friend’s of ours, Mat and Ann-Marie, came over for dinner. I arranged it with Mat to bring over his Harley Davidson so Mam could have a ride as she had never been on one before…..

Apparantly it was AWESOME!! At least that is all we could get out of her for about an hour after returning. She loved it….. it was good to see her really happy.

Easter eggs already?

Geez this week has flown by – hopefully the world will slow down enough for us to enjoy this year and not whiz by as 2006 did!

Noel’s mam and dad took Mam and the kids out for lunch on Wednesday to the Frankston RSL. It sounds like the place to go as everyone had good reviews about it. The kids enjoyed their meals and the computer room. The adults all said their meals were good and that they didn’t see the kids most of the time (due to the computer room of course)!

Went to the shops and saw Coles has already got Easter Eggs in the aisles… come on – we just got over Christmas… Funny though one aisle has left over Christmas stock and the other has the Easter range. I honestly think that it will get to a time where all supermarkets have an aisle dedicated to Christmas, Easter and any other festivities permanently. They might as well have one, right?

Mam took the kids on a bus ride to the beach yesterday. Needless to say she is one popular grandma!! They had a ball and I am sure Mam enjoyed herself although her stories focussed more about being worried that the kids would float away etc. I hope she is enjoying her quality time with the kids and I know that overall the kids are enjoying spending time with her. She will be going back to Queensland soon, which will be sad but we are all used to having to say goodbye – even though it is very hard every single time. I love her to bits (although at time we don’t have the same opinions) and really wished we lived closer together.

The bush fires are still burning - not just far away but some getting closer with a new outburst in Mount Martha.. my thoughts go out to the firefighters and also to the people that the fires are affecting......

A Day at the Races....

Geez what a fun Sunday we had.

Every year we go to the Balnarring Picnic Races but this year we are members. It made all the difference setting up our spot next to the race track and not in the back blocks of the carpark. Due to the weather is wasn't that busy but we are planning on going back on Australia Day 26th January.

I think eveyone enjoyed themselves. There was enough food and grog for two days not just the one afternoon and the kids were in awe when the horses came close to us. Especially my nephew Wesley, who is 2. It was good to spend time with my sister and even Noel's brother Sean came, staying for quite a long time.

Mam is now back with us for the week. She has taken the challenge of babysitting for us all week as Noel is back at work today. Cross fingers the kids don't stooge her too much about what Mam and Dad really let them do!! LOL!!

Chat soon,

PS Happy Birthday to me!

Finally able to log in???

After a couple of days banging my head against the wall unable to log in I finally broke through. Don't know what was stopping me but something was amiss somewhere.

Anyways I am back at work (boring and quiet as it is) whilst Noel is enjoying his last few days with the kids!! Lucky him.

They all went to the beach yesterday. The kids thought it was wonderful. We definately don't go the beach enough and the kids think it is such a novelty when we do!! Isn't it strange that we live close to the beach but never visit. I think that is partially my fault due to my weight issue but as a little girl I was always at the beach with my Mam. She used to pick us up from school and it would be straight down there, into our bathers and off into the water!

The weather has finally started to warm up and considering we had hail stones on Christmas Day it is about time! Now of course everyone is complaining that it is too hot and muggy. Last night I was cranky when I got home but I think that was due to more than just the heat. It was a combination of my first day at work, getting up too early and my attitude towards myself at the moment. Saying that I owed Noel an apology, which I gave, but I still managed to put a damper on the evening. Cross fingers tonight will definately be better.

I have decided to go back to Weight Watchers and get the added moral support needed to complete my weight loss journey. I really think I can do it this time and more importantly I want to do it. Enough on that subject as I have a seperate "fat" blog.

We are off to Balnarring Races on Sunday (weather permitting as they have forecast rain!!) for my birthday celebration. Picnic lunch and no doubt a few glasses of champagne!! We went last year and really enjoyed the day but this year we have members passes. Noel's mam and dad are also going as we got them members passes for Christmas. My mam and sister with all her boys will be joining us also.

Bye for now.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year 2007 everyone.... may this year be the best. Well we are going to try and make it the best anyway.

It was a quiet day for the Murray household today. We didn't have anything planned except for taking Mam across to my sisters house. Mam will stay with them until Sunday 7th then she is back with us for one week. It was sad to have Mam pack her belongings and drop her off but the right thing has to be done. She needs to spend time with her other grandkids especially baby Angus who will be one month old on the 3rd.

Noel and I have both decided it is time to shift some of our weight - don't know where to yet but as long as it leaves our bodies I don't really care where it goes!! We went shopping today and stocked up on fresh vegies and fruit and will definately be starting our new lifestyle as of tomorrow morning.

The kids have just about gotten over Christmas and all the festivities. Alex even asked "When is it Christmas Mam?" I explained that it was 12 months away so she had better start being good! They are both enjoying all their Christmas presents especially the Nintendo DS Lites they both received. I have been enjoying them also and honest believe I should have got one off Santa also. I got a bike so I need to start using that - better buy a helmet first (must set a good example for the kids) and we also need to buy Noel a bike now so we can do the family bike riding thing!!

Chat soon,

Jo

The final day of 2006

Well I must admit I have spent the last few weeks enveloped in a very hectic lifestyle. A lifestyle that honestly has required 30 hours in each day and not the allocated 24.

Work has been busy with breaking in the new boss and I also found myself travelling to other sites in the country and interstate. So not only am I still working full time but now jet setting and staying in motels... oh what a life!! Thankfully Noel is ever so supportive and capable of coping at home by himself.

We all enjoyed a wonderful but quiet Christmas - as usual the kids were spoilt not only by Santa but by their parents and their grandparents. The day all went well and I do believe all of our visitors had a good time.

As for New Year it is going to be a quiet one. My mam is staying with us and everyone else has plans. The city looks as though it is going to be the happening centre but I think we have all decided to keep well clear of it. Frankston doesn't look at though there is anything on at all.

Both Noel and I have decided that 2007 will bring change. Change in many ways especially with our weight. Both of us really need to lose some kgs and have agreed to help each other out. We need to also cut down on our take aways (a godsent for working families) and also to cut down on our alcohol intake, which has gotten way out of hand.

Bottom line - 2007 is going to be a better year for the House Of Murray.

See you then.......

Jo

Sunday is our family day.

Geez, hold on to your seat - we actually had a sleep in this morning with the kids getting up and quietly watching tv leaving Noel and I ALONE!! Woohoo a sleep in is definately a rare event in this house.

As the weather was really nice we decided to take the kids into Melbourne to have a look at the Myer Christmas windows. The kids really enjoyed them and I must admit I did also.

Since we went to the city a few weekends ago Alex has been at Noel and I to go on a horse and carriage ride. So as we walked towards the horses her face lit up and it was $50 for 20 minutes. But just the looks on both Alex and Olivers faces it was worth every cent.

Anyways it has been a huge day with all the walking... so will chat again tomorrow.

Jo

Time flies when you're having fun.....

Cannot believe it has been nearly another month since I last sat down and posted. Wow where does all the time go?

For me, it is working full time, spending as much of my spare time with the kids and doing the occassion bit of house work, shopping, cooking, etc, etc. I am sure everyone knows where I am coming from.

Work at the moment is very busy with a new manager on site, training off site up in the country quarries and with the warmer weather approaching more work is being done so the trucks and the weighbridge are getting busier. I made a few trips to Carisbrook, near Bendigo, for training where I stayed a few nights. I have a few more similar trips in the pipeline prior to Christmas so I will well and truely need a New Years Break.

The kids are getting excited with the fact that Christmas is coming... not long now. I still get amazed every year at how early the Christmas decorations are put out in the shops. You nearly spend half the year looking at Christmas stuff and then celebrate it for just one day!!

Alex lost her first tooth on Melbourne Cup Day and was pleased when the tooth fairy left $10 in exchange for her little tooth. She looks really cute without her tooth and I think she is wobbling every other tooth now.

We all went to the Melbourne city a couple of weekends ago when Noel's sister Clare and her boyfriend came down from Sydney. It was great to see Clare again and to meet Ray for the first time - hopefully as a family we didn't scare him too much. The day was spent at AFL Hall of Fame, a really great place to go even if you are not a mad footy supporter. It is a musuem as well as an interactive environment, similar to Scienceworks, and it kept both the adults and the kids interest all day.

Claire, my sister, is due to have her 4th child on 14th December. I wish my relationship with her was better but I need to remember that it is a two way street. There is no closeness that I feel sisters should have which upsets me and I know it upsets my Mam. I have to be honest and say that I have given up ringing in hope of normality and actually being like sisters as my calls often go unanswered and not returned. Just when I think all is lost she rings me out of the blue. It made my day to actually think she was thinking of me. I appreciated the fact that for once she has made an effort. That was last Tuesday - suspiciously I am going to wait to see how long it takes for the next phonecall to happen. I hate myself for thinking like this!

Mam is due to arrive in Melbourne soon. She flies in on the 12th December and I am really looking forward to seeing her again. My uncle Griff and his partner Julie will be with her as they are coming out from Wales for a holiday. I haven't seen Griff since I was 18 which is 17 years ago now. Needless to say I think this Christmas will be really good with both families and the added overseas relations.

Well as you can see we have been busy and I am sure it won't slow down this side of Christmas..... oh well!!

Thursday has come and nearly gone.

Thursday has come and nearly gone.

Thankfully there was no long distance travelling for me today. I just went to my normal work address although I worked in the office and not in the weighbridge.

Noel did his normal 8 hrs as we have agreed that he will do only the 8hrs on a Thursday so he can take the kids to their swimming lessons. He really enjoys spending this time with them. They both did well in their lessons and I know that Dad is proud sitting on the bleachers watching.

Thursday is usually takeaway night for us. I weigh in at my WW Meeting at 5pm so the evening is definately NO COUNT until the next morning!! Probably not the best way to do it - but it is my weekly reward. The kids have finally worked out that the local Chinese restaurant is actually really good - rock on Dragon King!! We let them choose their own meal - tonight for Oliver it was Sweet and Sour Pork while Alex on the otherhand (Miss Champagne Budget) was prawns in a birds nest.. oh well it sure beats a Big Mac, Large Fries and a Coke - right?

The kids are now just about asleep, Noel I think is migrating towards the bedroom and I am absolutely knackered!!

Good night.

Better late than not at all!

Well this is just a quick post for yesterday!! A little late but what the!!

I spent most of yesterday driving from Frankston to Diggers Rest to do some training/assessing. It was a nice day for a drive with the sun shining down most of the day.

Thankfully I managed to get through the city traffic and get to the school for 5.30pm to pick my cherubs up from afterschool care.

The kids are enjoying riding their bikes now which is great to see. For months the bikes just sat there gathering cobwebs (sounds like my exercise equipment!!) Now a few of the other kids are coming out into the court in the evening for a play. It is great now with the nights staying lighter for longer. There is quite a social gathering of "little" people.

Anyways, must fly - off to work again. So it's busy busy busy. I will try and post tonight - not sure what the day will hold.

Bye for now.

~*JO*~

The cool change is finally arriving.

After quite a warm day the cool change is finally starting to arrive. Saying that the warm days are good to have after the winter.

Today I spent the day at both Harkaway and Lysterfield. So my day was broken up. Noel is doing overtime most nights this week also.

Oliver and Alex are getting more adventurous with their bike riding. They are fasinated that we are now allowing them to ride out of our court and across to the next court (where quite a few children live). Tonight they took my mobile phone so I could ring and tell them what time to come home.

We had our first official summer bbq tonight for tead and that was good. Everyone ate really well - Oliver even tried the coleslaw.

I am really tired tonight and off to Diggers Rest in the morning for another day off site training.

Bye for now.....

~*JO*~

Geez it took me awhile to come back - but here I am!!

On reflection what seems like a lifetime since my last post is in reality just a blink of the eye... where has the time gone?

I am not going to begin to capture what has happened over the last how many days, weeks or months. I'll just start again from now.

Work is taking me everywhere. Last week I spent two days in Carisbrook which is 10kms from Maryborough. Although a nice place once again I found myself in the middle of nowhere. I really enjoyed myself and I am planning to go up there soon in the near future to complete training.

The kids - well as usual they are growing by the minute and their mannerisms are changing just as fast. Both have similar characteristics but Alex is far more dominent than here older brother Oliver. Both are enjoying school and doing well.

Noel is looking for work and has even starting reading the WA jobs - a little scary as we still haven't unpacked all the boxes from our move to Sydney and back... but if it is to be it will be another new adventure for us all.

Mam rang me today - she is doing well and on a golfing holiday. I am really happy that she has found her niche in the world. It is great to hear the excitment in her voice when telling me things that are happening in her world at the moment. I suppose deep down that is how she has sounded with me for so many years. Always happy at my achievements and there to support me. I love her dearly and only wish that we lived closer.

Will sign off now as it is getting late and I had better go to work tomorrow.

~*JO*~

Oops I missed Wednesday.

No seriously after a day of end of month figures, typing of the EBA minutes and trying to remember all the finer details topped off with fire extinguisher training I was buggered even before I left work.

Then on my way to pick up the kids I had a brainwave - I will do the grocery shopping after I collected my little angels. BIG MISTAKE!!! I have never seen so many people in a supermarket during the week. I actually think it may be quieter on Saturdays (which is when I do my usual full shop).

Needless to say the kids and Noel had hot dogs for dinner!! By the time I had put everything away and considered food for myself I ended up with two minute noodles!! Yuk!!

What a day that was... cross fingers today will run smoother and be more enjoyable.

Chat to you all tonight.

~*JO*~

Tuesday is nearly over....

What a long day it has been - the kids and I left the house at 7am this morning only to return at 6.45pm. My poor little cherubs yawned all through dinner and it didn't take long for them to go to sleep once in bed.

Alex attending swimming today with her class - she loves to be in the water (both she and Oliver do). She only has a few more sessions left this term.

I went to head office today in Doncaster to attend the EBA (Enterprise Bargaining Agreement) meeting as I am the EBA rep for Harkaway Site. Not a job I put my hand up for but one that I am enjoying as time has gone on. The EBA meeting dragged on as usual and I left Doncaster at 5pm only to get stuck in traffic big time!!

Noel went for the ultrasound on his liver this morning and should get the results on Friday. He has an appointment booked with the doctors at 4pm. He said that there was nothing wrong tonight but he was quiet and a little snappy. Thankfully he is in bed now also.

Speaking of bed - I must head that way myself. I have a really busy week ahead at work and I am so tired already.

~*JO*~

I'm back!!

Hi World!!

Wow cannot believe that it has been 4 months since I last posted. Unfortunately it has been a case of "I'll do it after", "I'll have more time tommorrow" etc etc. But as we all know - tommorrow never comes and now it is nearly the end of May!

I don't know where to begin - so much has happened since January.

Alex has settled into preps really well. She has a love of school that I hope she retains for the next 12 years. Her teacher, Mrs Bailey, is really happy with her progress and has commented that she is doing exceptionally well.

Oliver is also doing well at school, although I was called to pick him up early today due to a stomach ache that disappeared as soon as we left the school yard. Not sure what the underlying reason behind this is but I am sure it will come out eventually. He is enjoying grade 3 and also likes his teacher, Mrs Matthews.

As far as Noel and I are going - we are still coping with what life is dealing (although it is more bad than good). It is wonderful that at night we can still lie there, tell each other "I love you" and go to sleep with those last words floating in our head.

Weight wise - Noel and I both really need to change and change big time!! Noel is having an ultrasound tommorrow morning on his liver as the last series of blood tests he has recently had shows that there may be a problem. Cross fingers for him on this one. I do believe this scare has jolted Noel a little and he is taking life a little more seriously this last week. Needless to say that as of this morning we have both promised to try and change our lifestyle not just for us but mainly for our kids.

We have just found out that my sister is pregnant on her 4th children. (No one else in my family knows.) She is praying for another boy as she has already had 3 but secretly I am hoping she has a girl. Terrible on me I know but I know how much she adores Alex so I think she deserves a little princess of her own.

Speaking of Claire, she is flying up to see Mam this Wednesday. I am really jealous but would never tell her although I am sure from the body language she knows. It is only a flying visit and she will be telling Mam her exciting news. I am sure Mam will be very surprised!!!

Our League 10 Pin Bowling season is drawing to an end with only two weeks left. It has been fun - especially spending one on one time with Claire. I chose my bowling ball and it has been ordered so I am looking forward to getting that. It is part of our league that we recieve a bowling ball at the end of the season. I can't wait to see it - the colour I chose is called blackberry - a mixture of black and red with sparkles. Hopefully it will look as good as it did on the internet.

On the Murray front - all hell broke loose a few weekends ago with Vicky unleashing her views and thoughts about the family on the mother in law. Ouch it hurt and it hurt big time. I will honestly say that the family will never be the same - even I was dragged under and am quite disappointed in her as a person!! I really feel sorry for Sean (Noel's brother) on so many levels!!

Work has been going really well for me. I have been doing some training off site and my latest trip saw me at Kilmore on Friday. This Friday I am off to Wollert and Diggers Rest the Friday after.... I hate driving... LOL!!!! Noel's work has been fairly quiet and has only started doing overtime again last week. The bank balance is looking wonderful anymore but hey shit happens and we just have to get on with it.

I am starting to ramble now - so I will close and wish you all goodnight!!

~*JO*~