.

Growing Up

2011-04-26T19:08:00.000+10:00

Luke has just about completed his first term of High School. It has been a learning experience for us all. He has coped really well, made some new friends and navigated his way around his new environment. He has also started catching the bus which has been an adventure in itself. I am extremely proud of the way that he has settled in. He has given his all and worked really hard. The homework/assessment schedule has been quite tough but he has worked consistently to meet the deadlines. I feel a little sad as we have to search for time in the week for him to be a kid and I do believe that time to just hang out is equally important as homework. I feel that I am really lucky that things have gone so smooth.

I look at these photos a see a handsome young man. Where did my little baby go? I know that we say it all of the time but time really flies by (way too fast). We need to treasure each and every moment. I blinked and he was 12. Soon the teenage=attitude years hit and I am soooo not looking forward to that. For now he is still thoughtful and respectful and can still hold a conversation with his mother (I will hold onto that for now).

Love to all
Rell

Ben's Achievements

2011-04-26T19:01:00.000+10:00

This was our first year of Little Athletics. Both boys really enjoyed the weekly competition. Although it was a Friday night the boys were always eager to go. Both boys went to state twice within the season. We were really proud of Ben as he partipated in the Zone Multi Event and placed 2nd with a Silver medal. We then went off to Wagga for the weekend to participate against 36 other boys. Ben placed 12th overall. We were so proud of him and the way that he competed. He has grown up so much in the last year. I think that he will do even better next year as he has a little more experience behind him. He broke the ground record several times for discus. Within the season he came very close to breaking ground records for 100m, 400m, 800, 1500m and longjump. He also broke the ground record for shot put. One of the memories that sticks in my mind is of the night he tried to break the 1500m record. He went out hard and started to stitch on the first lap, by the second lap he was crying and by the third and final lap you could hear him coming down the straight crying very loudly. He was so determined BUT he missed the reourd by a few seconds. He ran through the pain under his own will to do his best. I was embarrassed and proud all at the same time. He is already looking foward to the next season of Little Athletics.

Love to all of the mums out there doing the sporting circuit.
Rell

Make Me Laugh

2011-03-26T22:37:00.002+11:00

I love this ad as it makes me laugh and then I found one quite similar. I have a great story about Old Spice and one of my first year 6 classes. Nathan this little darling after PE one day decided to make himself smell good. When I asked him what he had put on (as I was holding my nose) he told me that it was his father's Old Spice. I asked him how old he thought it was and he replied well Miss he said that he had it since he was a boy. Then I asked Nathan how much he had put on and he proudly replied that he had used the whole bottle. You have to love kids. make sure to watch the second one as well.

One of my main objectives this week is to get my blog up to date. Life has been way too busy and I have been out living it.

I hope that I have given you all a laugh for the week as heaven knows that we all need one.
Love to all
Rell

You Have Got to Love the Holidays

2011-01-24T21:55:00.000+11:00

January 2011

This month has been a jam packed one and it is not over yet. We have:
* Travelled back from our Lismore trip.
* Dealt with 3 ear infections (Luke x 2 and Ben x1)
* The boys went away with the Nies family for a weekend. They had a great time but ended up a little homesick.
* Had some slip and slide fun.
* Tamara got married on the 14th of January and I took some photos for her (Bel where were you when I needed you).
* Had two sleepovers at our house.
* The guineas have had two litters.
* Read a book for the first time in ages.
* Gone shopping and prepared for school (especially High School).
* Had lunched with friends (friends from school were over).
* Chris has gone back to work and not really enjoying it.
* Seen the birth of our gorgeous little nephew Zachery (I will have to post some photos - he is adorable).
* Had a trip to Gerringong and played on the beach.
* Been to the movies twice (Yogi Bear and The Dilemma).
* Slept in lots.
* Stayed up late lots.
* Cleaned the house and filled our bin several times (as well as the neighbours - a little of clearing the cluter).
* Seen the worst floods in Queensland for many year and listened to tragic stories. I have donated some money to the appeal but nothing seems enough to compensate those families for their loss. The story that breaks my heart is that of the 13 year old boy who asked for his brother to be saved first only to lose his own life. Love to all of those in the terrible mess that will go on for some time. Living on the North Coast for most of my life I know what it is like to experience floods.
* Completed Project Life for 2010.
* Planned our Easter holiday to Port Macquarie for a few days.
* Caught up with a couple of old and dear friends who I have not seen or heard from in a couple of years.
* Caught up with sorting and storing my everyday photos.

A busy month so far. Enjoying every moment. Making a conscious effort to be present in every moment and enjoy it.
Love to All
Rell

The Year That Was 2010

2011-01-21T17:38:00.000+11:00

2010 was one of the busiest years we have ever had BUT probably one of our best years yet. We had a stack of major events in the family. Here is a run down on the year:

* Celebrated Chris' 50th Birthday
* Celebrated Mum and Dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary (what a special occassion)
* Ben made his first Reconciliation
* Luke made his Confirmation
* Ben made his First holy Communion
* Boys played soccer Winter and Summer
* Ben's soccer team made the Grand Final and lost 2-1
* Luke made it to State for Discus with school (threw really well and came 6th)
* Boys joined Little Athletics and made it to State at Homebush Bay Olympic Stadium and came home with two Gold Medals each - how exciting
* Boys competed in the Zone Little A's and made it to Regional for each of the events entered in
* Made 3 trips to Lismore to be with my Dad who is slowly slipping away. I am ever so grateful that I had him for another year.
* Made a trip to Dubbo Zoo in April
* Went to Gerringong for a few days with Chris' family
* Enjoyed the X-Factor journey on a Sunday and Monday night for many weeks. Mahogany came 4th in the overall competition - what an achievement.
* Completed 2010 Project life
* Had lots of lunches with friends.
* Got a new boss at school and he is just lovely.
* Spent many hours at training with the boys for throwing.
* All time low when Kerri (a good friend) lost her little girl Lillian. May you find her in your dreams Kerri.
* Acting Principal for all of Term One and part of Term Two.
* Went to the Camden Show
* Good friend Sarah had a little boy Harry.
* Loads of lunches with friends
* Celebrated Lachlan's 1st Birthday
* Luke went away on his Year 6 Camp
* Stripes had 3 litters.
* Celebrated Ben's 9th and Luke's 12th birthday (I am going to have a teenager this year - help).
* Luke represented his school in Football, Netball, Swimming, Athletics and Cricket.
* Had the worst tummy bug ever - whole family had it but I thought that I was dying.
* Celebrated Danielle's 40th Birthday.
* Organised a Staff Development Day involving a number of schools.
* Took stage 3 away to Canberra for Camp.
* Saw the Roosters make the Grandfinal only to loose to St George.
* Cleaned out the lunches I found under someones bed.
* Ben dis-located his shoulder at school (twice in two days).
* Picked the Mebourne Cup winner and won a little money - Americain
* Met most of the X Factor contestants and got to stir Altiyan up.
* Enrolled Luke into his High School - Clancy Catholic College
* Luke's Year 6 Farewell and Graduation Mass were both tear gerkers.
* Celebrated my 39th Birthday.
* Collected some more owls.
* Thoroughly enjoyed Christmas with my family.
* Showed everyone how to do the catepillar/worm on New Year's Eve.

That is a brief overview. Loads going on - a top year. One that I am grateful for.
Hope that you all had a good 2010 - Happy New Year Everyone. I hope that 2011 is just as good -it is going to be hard to top.
Love to All
Rell

The Celebrations at School

2010-12-01T20:37:00.000+11:00

Here we are celebrating at school. The girls were well supported. Love these great girls!!!!

Love to All
Rell

Aint No Mountain High Enough

2010-12-01T20:00:00.004+11:00

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Well the X Factor journey is over. It was our second home for a couple of months (only missing a few shows). It was so exciting knowing some of the contestant and getting to share their extraordinary journey with them. Love you girls and I am so proud of you. The most amazing part was that they were fine with the verdict and they conducted themselves with dignity and grace. They sung for their fans one final time and they were so strong. Afterwards I was hugging Maureen and I teared up and she told me to be happy for them. I am happy for them but believe that they should have gone one show further. If Mahogany had have made the top three the girls and Guy Sebastian were coming out to visit our school. So our kids were ripped of the opportunity that would have meant the world to so many of them. Anyway it has all been a fun experience. We have had many laughs and one of the best parts was getting to spend Sunday and Monday night with some really close friends.

Here I am cheering my little heart out. MA HOG ANY!!! MA HOG ANY!!!MA HOG ANY!!!
Loads of FUN.

Love to All
Rell

X Factor Fun

2010-11-06T15:50:00.000+11:00

I hope that these very talented girls go all of the way. We have been there supporting them and wishing them well. Please get behind them as they deserve to win. We will be there again on Sunday and Monday.

Here we are stirring Altyian up. Good fun!!!!!

And then a happy snappy with India Rose.

Please vote for our girls.

Love to All
Rell

Go Mahogany

2010-11-06T15:18:00.000+11:00

Go girls- you are survivors and you rocked tonight. All the way from here.

Love
Rell

MAHOGANY has the X Factor!!!!

2010-10-22T22:06:00.002+11:00

Look at these beautiful girls. Two of them are teachers at my school. I so hope that they win. They have so much talent. They are the most gorgeous girls who are ever so humble about the talent that they have. They have all the talent at school and you rarely hear them sing whereas me I have little to no talent and you always hear me singing(some probably wish that it was a lot less). Anyway we have been going to support them most Sunday and Monday nights. I hope they win as they are by far the most talented in the competition. It has all been very exciting. I hope that you too will vote for them.

Love to All
Rell
PS My weekend job is to get this blog up to date. It has been sadly neglected.

Giraffes are My Favourite

2010-08-29T21:31:00.000+10:00

This page was inspired by our recent trip to Dubbo Zoo. I just love watching the giraffes. I really have to tear myself away from watching them. They are so tall and graceful. I use one of the gorgeous embellishments designed by the lovely Julie and you can find them on her website - Time to Create. I urge you to have a look at her site as there are so many yummy handmade products there and what I really love about them is you won't find them anywhere else as she designs them herself. I simply can not get enough of them. Hope that you are all finding time to scrap in this busy life.

Love to All,
Rell

Our Little Champion

2010-08-24T20:11:00.000+10:00

Ben lost his grand final on the weekend in a very close. The other team scored in the final minute of extra time. Ben handled the loss really well. We had a talk before the game where I told him that despite the outcome that we were going to celebrate after the event. When they scored Ben ran straight to the goalie to tell him that it was OK. He was a graceful loser!! I think is just as important to know how to lose. It was a really good game. Ben's team were doing all of the attacking however they let a ball through in the end. Them the breaks. We went to the park afterwards to celebrate and all of the kids had an absolute ball. Ben was awarded with two certificates. One was for being the one that trains the most consistently and the other was for "Overall Best in Attack and Defence." I thought that they were both appropriate as he trains really hard and he is all over the field. It was a really good season. Ben had his old coach watching him for the last two games and as he walked off the field his old coach was trying to sign him up for next season. Ben is really happy where he is so he will probably stay with the Robbins.

So we now get a rest because the season is over BUT only for a week or two as he has already signed up for Summer Season.

Love to All of the Soccer Mums out there,
Rell

Content

2010-08-22T21:14:00.001+10:00

I was reading something today that made me reflect and realise that I really am content with all that I have. We get so caught up with always wanting more - but really we have just enough. I have a beautiful family, a great job and enough freedom to do the things that I would like to do. I have a lovely home and amazing friends. I have all that I need. I think it is times like these that we sit back and say - "I am Happy and Content." I have everything a girl really needs.

Don't forget to have a look at Julie's blog and link to her Time to Create website to see some of her stunning embellishments. I have used her flourish and one of her gorgeous flowers on this page.

I hope that this entry find many others that are just as content!!!!
Love to All
Rell

Grand Final Here We Come

2010-08-20T21:02:00.001+10:00

Ben's team has made it through to the Grand Final. It will be played this weekend. They went into their last game as the underdogs and they were playing a team that was undefeated and won. It was hard to watch the other team as they too had worked really hard. So this weekend we play Bonnyrigg. In my eyes they are already the champions. Fingers crossed everyone for a win.
Love to All
Rell

District Athletics Carnival

2010-08-19T20:49:00.000+10:00

Yesterday both boys represented their school at the district Athletics Carnival. Luke came first in Discus which was really good. It is a shame that he did not make it in for Shot Put as he would have done well in that too. Ben ran third in his 100m heat and made it through to the finals. He placed 5th in the final. Ben was also a part of the Junior Relay team. He was extremely nervous about the relay as he had not been shown how to exchange the batton. He cried because he was scare that he was going to let his team down. They were coming second in the relay and then on the final exchange they dropped the batton. I was happy that it was not Ben that dropped it as he would have been heart broken. It was a good day all round. We are extremely proud of both of the boys. Luke is now training for the Regional Carnival in two weeks time.
Love to All
Rell

They Make My Heart Sing

2010-08-18T20:56:00.002+10:00

This week I actually got some scrapping done - which was really nice. I was determined to create some time to create and that is exactly what I did. I just love the little birdie that I used on this page which is one of the lovely embellishments from Julie at Time to Create. Julie is a talented lady who pours her heart and soul into creating gorgeous products for others. What I love about her products is that there is very little you need to do once you have them on the page. So for all of those that are time challenged like myself they are just perfect. Julie is having a give away on her blog - all you have to do is tell her your favourite colour embellishment. It is definitely worth a look. After looking at her blog why not pop over to her web page - Time to Create and have a look at all of her wonderful products - I promise that you will not be disappointed.

Love to All
Rell

Happy 1st Lockie

2010-08-12T22:30:00.000+10:00

We had Lockies' birthday on Sunday. He was such a good boy and he loved having all of the kids around. My boys just adore him and they worship the ground that he walks on. We had a great day celebrating and the weather was just beautiful. A lovely day for a Cowboy party.

They Are My Sunshine

2010-08-11T22:22:00.000+10:00

I do have the two most beautiful boys in the whole wide world. Aren't they just gorgeous!!!! I know that I may be a little bias. Just had to share a couple of pics - I love the one of Ben - his smile could light up the world.

Love to All (Especially those with boys)
Rell

If You Have To Go - Go Out In Style!!!!

2010-08-08T22:15:00.001+10:00

Luke's soccer season ended on Saturday in a Semi-final. It is one of the most exciting games that I have ever watched. It was the type that kept you on the edge of your seat. He played such a good game and saved a couple of goals. He was marking probably the most difficult kid on the other team - their key striker and he did a brilliant job. Luke is not the fastest kid on the field but what he lacks in speed he makes up with in heart. When the opposition would make a break he would power along beside him and put the pressure on. It was truly good to watch. We ended up 1-1 and then went into extra time which provided no change in score. Then we went into a penalty shoot out and we lost 4-3. It was so close. Never mind - can't win them all and we were ever so proud of Luke. Talk about a close one - could have gone either way. It was a good way to go out if there is such a thing. We walked away after giving it our all. A great soccer season for Luke.

Ben's team won and they now progress to the semi-finals next weekend. He too has had a great weekend.

One good result and one not so good but I say if you are going to go - go out in style.

Hope that everyone had a great weekend.
Love to All
Rell

So I Blink

2010-07-29T22:33:00.000+10:00

So I blink and before I know it he turns 12. Seriously where does the time go. Luke is growing into a beautiful, caring, sensitive and handsome young man. He has a wicked sense of humour and can now out do me with some jokes. Happy 12th Birthday Honey!! Oh dear my last year before the dreaded teenage years. Now there is something I am not looking forward to. Are there any good teenage tips out there that anyone cares to share????? I don't need them yet but I will store them until I do!!!

Love to all (especially those with teenagers)
Rell

Happy Birthday to My 3rd Son

2010-07-28T22:36:00.000+10:00

To one of the boys that I love most in this world - wishing you a very Happy 1st Birthday. You already have the most beautiful, happy and cheeky little personality. We hope that you have a wonderful day.

Love Always,
Aunty Rell and the boys

You Can't Beat Them

2010-07-27T22:21:00.001+10:00

No I really don't think that you can beat true friends. Look at these beautiful girls who are not only beautiful on the outside but even more beautiful on the inside. They are TRUE friends. The ones you can tell anything. Look at all of our beautiful kids and as time and life changes we continue to hold each other up. We had a beautiful lunch in the holidays. Ohhhh and how we laughed (mostly at my expense). What was the A name girls?????

I love you dearly girls and as we go through life together I cherish the time that we do get to spend together.
Rell

So Poor!!!!

2010-07-27T22:13:00.000+10:00

I am soooo TIME Poor. I never have enough time!!! Time to spend with my hubbie, my kids, my broader family and my dearest of friends. My friends even make a joke the other day about whether they thought that I would make it to my own party. Life is WAY too busy. I want it all to slow down so that I can enjoy it more. It is difficult to give your all to all those that matter in your life as I always feel like I am letting something or someone down. If I have a weekend with my family I feel like I am neglecting my work. It is so hard to get that balance right so in the mean time I will continue to muddle my way through. I am guessing that there are many of you out there feeling exactly the same way.

In the holidays I did take time out to go spend with my family. I went to see my Dad in particular who has not been well. It was really quite sad as seeing him made me realise that we may have limited time with him and that he will not be around forever. It was a beautiful week where I didn't do much at all but sit around and chat with family. I managed to get dad out of the house for a short time and the family where and had dinner together. This seemed to lift Dad's spirits if just for a short time.

Oh and now looking at the photos I realise where I get my pointy chin from - it is my mum. I do get my sense of humour from my dad though.

Love to all those muddling their way through too,
Rell

The SAGA

2010-07-18T18:27:00.001+10:00

Last night I finally went to see Elclipse with my good friend Belinda. I was meant to see it with other friends when I horrible tummy bug struck. I soooooo enjoyed it. There was good company, good food and spectacular scenery. I must admit that I am a bit of a team "JACOB" fan and I was even a greater fan when you got to see more of him. I still believe that reading the books is better as you're only limited by your own imagination. HMMMMMM what a great night. Thanks Bel for coming out with me even though you are not the greatest fan. You are a darl and I love you dearly. What is going to be even better is having you back at work tomorrow with me. It has been a long six months without you. Can't wait to laugh with you again!!!!!

Love You the Longest of Times
Rell

PS Holidays are over and I haven't got Project Life up to date. I haven't process my recent photos, I haven't really scrapped anything and this is the first time I have hit my blog in one month. Where does the time go?????

Chris' Party

2010-06-17T21:40:00.000+10:00

Here are some photos from Chris' party.

Love to All
Rell

Love It

2010-06-11T00:46:00.000+10:00

I heard K D Lang singing Alleluia recently - love it. Just wanted to share it with you all.

Love to All
Rell

Happy Birthday Honey

2010-06-06T00:24:00.000+10:00

On Tuesday Chris turns 5o!!!! Just wanted to say Happy Birthday. I have been looking at old photos- how cute were you!!!! I love old photos - I guess I just love any photos. I have been busy organising his big night. Honey I hope that you have a wonderful and special birthday as it is a BIG ONE.

Love to All
(Off to get some shut eye)
Rell

Happy 9th Birthday Ben

2010-05-31T20:22:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday to my dearest and sweetest baby boy - BEN. On Saturday we celebrated his 9th Birthday. We had a wonderful time with family and friends joining in the celebration. He wanted a home made cake and wanted a traditional party where we played Pass the Parcel. It was the old fashion kind of birthday party. It was wet outside but the kids all played really well inside. Ben got some lovely presents which he adores and has not stopped playing with. I know that we all say the same thing about how time slips aways - but it really just seems like yesterday that I held the big (nothing little about him as he was 10pound and 4 ounces born) baby in my arms and the next thing I know you are turning 9. I guess I will be saying the same thing again next year. I love the fact that at this age he still has a certain innocence (although we did threaten to put him on E-Bay tonight - he asked how much I thought we could get for him LOL).

Hope that you all had a great weekend too.
Love to ALL
Rell

To the Women In My Life ...

2010-05-30T20:31:00.002+10:00

The One Flaw In Women ...

Women have strengths that amaze men.....

They bear hardships and they carry burdens,

but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy

and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in..

They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer

when they believe there is a better solution.

They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel

and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about

a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member,

yet they are strong when they

think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss

can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you

to show how much they care about you.

The heart of a woman is what

makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their

family and friends.

Women have vital things to say

and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Remember YOUR worth

Hi There Everyone,

Life has been super busy. I have trouble posting as I have been busy cramming in as much as one can in one day. I have a stack of things that I want to catch up on. Just wanted to say "HI." Can't wait to go and see the new Sex in the City 2 Movie. Love these girls as they make me reflect upon many of the friendships I have. Don't know when I am going to fit it in BUT hopefully there is a spare night sometime soon.
Love to All
Rell

Our Newest Family Members

2010-05-13T22:20:00.000+10:00

Here are our newest family members. They are finally here after a long wait. Ben was beside himself when he found out that his favourite guinea pig - Stripes had three little babies. They are ever so cute. Just adorable!!!! I knew that she could not go for any longer as I was afraid that she may explode. I was reminded of the amazing job that the female of any species does when they deliver little ones. These little cuties are born ready to go. They have claws, fur and can survive without their mum straight away. So we have had many visitors to view the little ones.

Love to All
Rell

PS The male (Braiden) has been seperated as they can fall again within a couple of day. Oh dear what have we done????

Our Weekends

2010-05-13T20:23:00.000+10:00

Our weekends are taken up with sport. Lately we have played soccer on a Saturday and a Sunday. Both boys love their sport and hate to let their team down. What I love most about a team sport is the mateship that comes with it. I love these photos of Luke and Hadley. They both play in defence and they are forever backing each other up. They make a great team.

Love to All
Rell

Happy Mother's Day to ALL of the Mum's Out There

2010-05-09T21:23:00.000+10:00

I am thankful every day for the beautiful boys that I have. They really are gorgeous kids. They make being a mum easy. I hope that all of the mums out there get very spoilt. I hope that they get one day in the year to relax just a little. I sincerley hope that you all have a wonderful day.

Love To All of the Mums Out There
Rell

The Circle of Life

2010-05-07T21:06:00.001+10:00

I went to a funeral today. The song that they used was "The Circle of Life" from the Lion King. It was quite fitting and it made me remember how much I love the Lion King. I will keep the family in my thoughts and prayers.

Love To All
Rell

I Love The Beach

2010-04-30T22:06:00.000+10:00

What a beautiful time we had at the beach - it was so relaxing and peaceful!

Love to All
Rell

Gone Fishing

2010-04-30T21:56:00.001+10:00

Luke just loves fishing. We will have to go back to Gerringong and visit this beautiful little beach. Happy DAYS.

Love To All
Rell

Nice little story. What’s your path?

2010-04-26T16:41:00.002+10:00

John is the kind of guy you love to hate. He is always in a good mood and always has something positive to say. When someone would ask him how he was doing, he would reply, 'If I were any better, I would be twins!'

He was a natural motivator.

If an employee was having a bad day, John was there telling the employee how to look on the positive side of the situation.

Seeing this style really made me curious, so one day I went up and asked him, 'I don't get it!'

You can't be a positive person all of the time. How do you do it?'

He replied, 'Each morning I wake up and say to myself, you have two choices today. You can choose to be in a good mood or...you can choose to be in a bad mood

I choose to be in a good mood.'

Each time something bad happens, I can choose to be a victim or...I can choose to learn from it. I choose to learn from it.

Every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaining or...I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive side of life..

'Yeah, right, it's not that easy,' I protested.

'Yes, it is,' he said. 'Life is all about choices. When you cut away all the junk, every situation is a choice. You choose how you react to situations. You choose how people affect your mood.

You choose to be in a good mood or bad mood. The bottom line: It's your choice how you live your life.'

I reflected on what he said.. Soon hereafter, I left the Tower Industry to start my own business. We lost touch, but I often thought about him when I made a choice about life instead of reacting to it.

Several years later, I heard that he was involved in a serious accident, falling some 60 feet from a communications tower.

After 18 hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, he was released from the hospital with rods placed in his back.

I saw him about six months after the accident.

When I asked him how he was, he replied, 'If I were any better, I'd be twins...Wanna see my scars?'

I declined to see his wounds, but I did ask him what had gone through his mind as the accident took place.

'The first thing that went through my mind was the well-being of my soon-to-be born daughter,' he replied. 'Then, as I lay on the ground, I remembered that I had two choices: I could choose to live or....I could choose to die. I chose to live.'

'Weren't you scared? Did you lose consciousness?' I asked.

He continued, '...the paramedics were great.

They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the ER and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses, I got really scared. In their eyes, I read 'he's a dead man'. I knew I needed to take action.'

'What did you do?' I asked.

'Well, there was a big burly nurse shouting questions at me,' said John. 'She asked if I was allergic to anything 'Yes, I replied.' The doctors and nurses stopped working as they waited for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, 'Gravity''

Over their laughter, I told them, 'I am choosing to live.. Operate on me as if I am alive, not dead.'

He lived, thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude....I learned from him that every day we have the choice to live fully.

Attitude, after all, is everything.

Great story that I thought I would share with you all. I do believe that attitude is everything.

Hope that you all had a great long weekend.
Love to all
Rell

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.' Matthew 6:34

LEST WE FORGET

2010-04-25T21:29:00.000+10:00

Anzac Day always gives me chills. I am extremely grateful for the sacrifice these brave men and women made for us. LEST WE FORGET!!!

Love To All
Rell

Our Time Away

2010-04-23T21:25:00.000+10:00

We decided to take the kids to Dubbo to Western Plains Zoo while they still wanted to go on holidays with us. It was very relaxing and we all really enjoyed exploring the Zoo. I think that my favourites were the giraffes and the meerkats. We were also lucky enough to be there for the introduction on the new baby rhino. He was so cute. He didn't let his mum get too far away from him.

The boys enjoyed staying in the Motel and they loved the spa and the tennis court. We had a really nice break away.

Highly recommended. I would love to go again.

Love to All
Rell

How Am I Going???

2010-04-23T21:17:00.001+10:00

A very good friend of mine told me recently that my blog needed some work (OK so maybe she told me that my blog had gone to Shit). She is the one that makes me laugh!!!!! Just wanted to know - how am I going?????

I will keep working on it and in no time I will be up to date.

Love Ya Rell

Some of My Oldest Friends

2010-04-23T21:12:00.001+10:00

On Friday of the first week I caught up with some of my oldest but dearest friends. Mel, Kylie, Kerri, Shell and I had a lovely lunch together. I love these girls!!! We have been through thick and thin together. We have seen each other through heartbreak and celebrated the good times. There is nothing that you could not tell these girls or talkt to these girls about. They are beautiful and my life is so much richer for having them around. You know that if you need a shoulder to cry on you are guaranteed one here. I can not tell you how much they mean to me. They are the angels that walk on earth.

In our circle we have all had our ups and downs and we know that this is the cirlce of life. When one is weak we draw the circle closer and assist until a time that she feels stronger.

Girls I love you dearly - I seriously do not know what I would do without you.

Here's to friendship - go fill the wine glasses up girls and toast to those beautiful women in your life - the ones who get you through.

Love to all the Girls Our There
Rell

Happy 40th Gina

2010-04-11T21:01:00.000+10:00

On the first Wednesday of the holiday we went to have lunch with Gina to celebrate her 40th birthday. We have a relaxing days with the girls from Bonnyrigg and a lovely lunch. We need to do more of this. I really enjoyed the day and sitting around dipping Moet - who can complain????

Happy Birthday Gina Honey - We hope that you had a wonderful birthday as we love you very much.

Love to All
Rell

Easter For Us

2010-04-10T20:54:00.000+10:00

Easter for us was spent with family. We had a lovely weekend celebrating with the Nies crew. We stayed out at Mary's for one night. I don't know what happens but when we all get together we seem to have plenty of laughs. I gave myself a headache from laughing.

We also had some family fun playing football. There were a few crash tackles. A great weekend had by all. We came home late on Sunday night after another yummy BBQ.

Happy Easter to All
Rell

Camden Show

2010-03-31T20:23:00.000+11:00

A couple of weekends ago we went to the Camden Show. This is a yearly event that we all love. We had a great time looking around with some of our friends. The boys had an absolute ball. The afternoon flew. I love this show as it makes me feel at home - it is very much like the Lismore Show. The boys are now trying to talk us into going to the Easter Show. We will see. They are pretty good as they mostly enjoy watching the ring events and they like to get a show bag - other than that they don't ask for much.

Love to All
Rell

OMG

2010-03-29T18:06:00.001+11:00

and that is all that I have to say about that.

Love to All
Rell

Just Can't Wait

2010-03-12T21:27:00.003+11:00

I am almost peeing my pants with excitement over Eclipse coming out. It looks good - get ready all of those Twilight fans (as if I need to tell you that). Bel you might like to start getting ready - maybe another trip to Narellan will be in order.

Love to all of the Twilight fans.
Rell

Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining

2010-03-12T21:20:00.000+11:00

Recently I had a dream about seeing a cloud with a silver lining. It involved one of my gorgeous work colleagues- Karen. In the dream we were taking in the scenery and I was taking a photo of a cloud with the silver lining. I then stumbled on this photo that I took last year. I think that this dream has significance as most of the dreams I remember come true. Now in our work place we managed to get a wonderful new boss so maybe this is the silver lining. I actually think that it may mean something more for Karen. So watch out for that silver lining Karen I feel that it is comming your way and if it does you sooo deserve it.

Well today was the last day of being a Principal for me (for the time being anyway). Our new principal starts on Monday. I have learnt a lot and have had an enormous amount of support. I am really looking forward to getting back into the classroom to do what it is that I love the most - teach!!!!! At this point I am not sure if being a principal is something I will pursue in the future. For now I am happy to get back into the classroom.

Hope that you all have a great weekend and that you all find a cloud with a silver lining (and if you don't I am happy for you to borrow mine for a while).

Love to All
Rell

To All Those I Consider to Be the Golf Balls

2010-03-02T20:38:00.000+11:00

The Mayonnaise Jar

When things in your life seem , almost too much to handle,
When 24 Hours in a day is not enough,
Remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.

A professor stood before his philosophy class
And had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly,
He picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar
and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students, if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured
them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open Areas between the golf balls.

He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was.

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar.
Of course, the sand filled up everything else.
He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous 'yes.'

The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively
filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

'Now,' said the professor, as the laughter subsided,
'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things - family,
children, health, Friends, and Favorite passions –
Things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, Your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, house, and car.

The sand is everything else --The small stuff.

'If you put the sand into the jar first,' He continued,
'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff,
You will never have room for the things that are important to you.

So...

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.
Play With your children.
Take time to get medical checkups.
Take your partner out to dinner.

There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.

'Take care of the golf balls first --
The things that really matter.
Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.'

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented.

The professor smiled.
'I'm glad you asked'.

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem,
there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend.'

To All Those I Consider to Be the Golf Balls - I love you - thank you for filling my life in the way that you do. I will always make room for the golf balls.

Love to All
Rell

Here's to Motherhood

2010-02-28T13:49:00.001+11:00

Thanks Bel for this (Thank Jen for giving it to Bel). When I saw this on our blog I wanted to share it with others also.

I don't know what is wrong with me today as I am highly emotional - maybe it is because I spent a day yesterday with a good friend who lost her little daughter. When I saw this it seemed to sum up everything I believe in. It made me remember what a privilege it is to be a mother. It is a blessing - not to be taken lightly. I know how blessed I am. So to all those wonderful mothers out there I salute you. You are what makes the world go around. You hold the responsibility of the future in your hands. Thank you for all that you do to raise the finest of fine children. Thank you for always doing and giving your best. Here's to motherhood (if it wasn't so early I would be raising a glass of wine in honour of you all).

Love to All
Rell

Off to See Guy Sebastian and the Rockettes

2010-02-13T20:26:00.001+11:00

Tomorrow night we are off to see Maureen and her talented sisters sing with Guy Sebastian. It should be a great night. Luke insisted on coming along as well. Here is a clip down loaded to give you a taste of what I will see.

Love to All
Rell

Happiness is Spending Time With My Boys

2010-02-12T18:35:00.000+11:00

These photos were taken in the park after Karen's wedding in July last year. I love the photos of the boys. I would love to take the credit for these lovely embellishments but you know the story they are from Time to Create. They are to die for.

This is where you can find out more about these beautiful products http://timetocreate.com.au
Or you can email Julie here for more information julie@timetocreate.com.au

Love to All
Rell

I Earnt My Money This Week

2010-02-07T12:49:00.000+11:00

This week was a tough one and I know that I earnt every dollar and then some as Relieving Principal. Tuesday was exceptionally difficult with a child being suspended by 10.00am and then there was a large issue with a Kindy child that saw a parent become quite aggressive (and rightfully so) and then there was a child that had not been picked up at 4.30pm and it looked like we were would have to take her to the police station. Boy oh Boy and these were just the major things- there were a million little things in between. But I got through. I must admit there was a point where I thought about locking myself in the toilet but I was brave and faced it. I do work with an exceptional staff who are so hardworking and supportive. It really is a lovely workplace despite the challenges that come with it. I was quite sick this week as well. I am starting to feel better.

This is a photo taken by the talented Belinda Howlett. She took a few for us when we visited one day in the holidays. They look great. I can't wait to get my hands on them. Thanks Bel!!! Still missing you at work.

I look at this photo and know how truly blessed I am to have such beautiful kids. They are my saving grace during difficult times. Luke was teary this week when I was sick as he felt helpless in trying to make me better. He said "But Mum you always take care of us when we are sick." Hearing him say that and reflect upon the fact that I am there when needed made me teary as well.

Off to plan for another busy week ahead. This week we interview for our new Principal - fingers crossed that we get a super one!!!!!

Hope that everyone is well. Thanks for dropping by.
Love to All
Rell

Boys n Bugs

2010-02-05T18:29:00.000+11:00

Here is another layout I created in the holidays. Ben is forever catching some insect and studying it. He thought it was Christmas when we found these insects all in one clump. This cute little lady beetle embellishment is from Time to Create. The web page may not be up yet but email Julie if interested and I am certain that she will help you out.

This is where you can find out more about these beautiful products http://timetocreate.com.au
Or you can email Julie here for more information julie@timetocreate.com.au

Love to All
Rell

LOL Had to Share This

2010-02-02T21:06:00.001+11:00

THE MUM TEST
I was out walking with my 4-year-old daughter. She picked up something off of the ground and started to put it in her mouth. I took the item away from her and I asked her not to do that. 'Why?' my daughter asked. 'Because it's been on the ground; you don't know where it's been, it's dirty,And probably has germs,' I replied. At this point, my daughter looked at me with total admiration and asked,'Mum, how do you know all this stuff? You are so smart.' I was thinking quickly and replied, 'All mums know this stuff. It's on the Mum Test. You have to know it, or they don't let you be a Mum.' We walked along in silence for 2 or 3 minutes, but she was evidently pondering this new information. 'Oh.....I get it!' she beamed, 'So if you don't pass the test you have to be the dad.' 'Exactly,' I replied with a big smile on my face.

Oh this made me laugh when I got it. Had to share it. Hope that it makes you laugh too.

Love to All
Rell

Jamberoo - Where You Control the Action

2010-02-02T18:49:00.000+11:00

On the 25th of January we went to Jambaroo. We had a top day out - the kids had a ball. I think that they are just the right age to enjoy the rides. I was brave and went on everything they did including the Taipan. I laughed so hard that I almost wet my pants. We had a super time. We will definitely be going back again sometime soon. My favourite thing was taking the chair life up to the top of the mountain so that we could bob sled back down it. I was a little nervous but soon overcome the nerves and sat back and enjoyed the ride.

Love to All
Rell

The Web We Weave

2010-01-30T18:24:00.002+11:00

Here is another little scrapping share. I did not get done as much scrapping as I would have like to these holidays. I only gto 4 pages done - which for me is not many. I really don't know where the time and days went. I seemed to be doing something everyday. I don't remember ever sitting around doing nothing.

I really like this layout as I do have a fasination with spiders. I love their webs and how they glisten in the early morning sun. I really love these photos and the embellishment just went perfectly with the layout.

Julie's web page is coming soon. This is where you can find out more about these beautiful products http://timetocreate.com.au
Or you can email Julie here for more information julie@timetocreate.com.au

Love to All
Rell

A Boy and His Pet

2010-01-28T17:41:00.000+11:00

Ben just simply adores his guinea pig -Stripes. It was really hard for him to keave stripes at home when we went on holidays. He was really worried about her. As soon as he got home he was ready to give her lots of love and attention. Ben has made Stripes really quiet. I think that it is great for kids to have pets and take on the responsibility of looking after something. I always had pets as a kid and I still love having them.
Love to All
Rell

Sail Away

2010-01-26T18:05:00.002+11:00

It is days like these that you just want to sail away. These photos were taken up in Iluka a couple of years ago when we were on holidays. Now the little sail boat is made by Julie from "Time to Create" and it is just gorgeous. She makes them in a variety of colours and they are great for beach, holiday or boy themes. I tell you for what they cost I seriously would not sit down and make this embellishment myself - all of the hard work is done for you. I have also been experimenting with using doileys on my pages. I used glimmermist on this one to give it a golden tone (can't really see the effect in the photo that I have taken).

This is where you can find out more about these beautiful products http://timetocreate.com.au

Or you can email Julie here for more information julie@timetocreate.com.au

Love to All

Rell

ps Happy Australia Day everyone. Mine went too quick. I am off now to have a family BBQ

Project Photos

2010-01-24T08:27:00.002+11:00

These holidays I undertook the huge task of getting my everyday photos into all of the same albums and putting them in year order. Now when you start a big project like this it is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel - I thought that I would never finish - BUT I did. So now I have my scrapbooking folders and everyday albums in the same albums in year order. Slowly getting there with getting things organised the way that I want.

Now this year's project is "Project Life" which Belinda bought me as a Christmas present. So what I have to do is take a photo a day and journal to go with it. We will see how I go with this. I got my beautiful folder yesterday and I love it and can't wait to have a play with it. It will be interesting to see whether I get things in the right order.

I have tried really hard to do the things around the house that you don't normally get time to do as I want to be ultra organised this year. I am slowly running out of time and for the last couple of day we have had anywhere up to 10 boys playing at our house (I call it the home for naughty boys) - they are all remarkably well behaved actually.

What projects have you assigned yourself for this year??????

1) Project Life - will keep you updated. Double page per week - OMG I am already behind.

2) Keep everyday albums up to date.

3) Always keep in mind - LESS IS MORE.

4) Stay on top of things.

5) Blog at least once a week.

6) Comment more on others blogs as everyone likes to get a message.

7) Improve my photography and take one of Janine's classes.

8) Have some professional family photos taken.

9) Scrap one layout a week.

10) Enjoy being creative.

Love to All

Rell

Have Bike Will Travel

2010-01-17T08:09:00.000+11:00

The boys have two great friends that live in our street and they all play together well. You have to keep an eye on them as they are always up to something - usually harmless fun. The other day they wanted to take their cricket set to the park with them so they needed a trailer for their bike so off to work they went. I must say their invention was quite creative. They got the base off our old recycling system, a box off the rubbish pile from nest door and some rope from the garage. Now if you are wondering what the stickers are around the box - yes they are VB stickers and boys will proudly tell you that they are stonsored by VB LOL. The funniest part of the story was when Dani (Mitch and A's mum) was over the other day looking at the trailer design and she said "gee that looks like the string out of Aiden's footy shorts tying the trailer to the bike." You could hear the boys gulp as that is exactly what it was. It goes to show a mother always knows.

Anyway the bike trailer works like a beauty and it has made many trips up to the park. The boys all ride together and come and go together. They play some other kids at the park and have a wonderful time. Some of the things they get up to remind me of my country upbringing where we would make the things that we couldn't buy.

Mitch and Aiden - we adore you and your family. We love having you guys around. You are always polite and respectful and you are a credit to your lovely family. We are so glad to have you so close. We are glad that you all get along so well. Know that you are alays welcome here and that you are never a problem. I have to tell you though the photos I have got will be used as evidence at your 18th or 21st. Sorry but it will be my job to embarass you in later life.

Love to All
Rell

6 Months

2010-01-16T22:22:00.000+11:00

My gorgeous little man - Lockie is almost 6 months old. He is just delightful - I love the fact that he knows me and can hear my voice and he smiles. I just adore him. I can't get enough of him. Happy 6 months little man. Where does the time go?

Love to Lockie

Aunty Rell

Where the Wild Things Are

2010-01-09T22:00:00.000+11:00

Every night on the farm included a bit of a drinking session on the verendah. I don't remember laughing so much. We all sit out of the verandah for hours and just talk - no radio,no TV, just good old fashioned conversation. We laughed about funny things that we have all done. The boys then decided to make some masks and we were on our 4th jug of cocktails. Things got way out of hand and the wild things come out to play. FUNNY!! The thing that really cracked me up was when Shayne looked at Belinda with the Hippo mask on and said to her "It doesn't even look like you." She said "thank god because I am wearing a Hippo mask." Oh we laughed for ages. We had some good fun on the verandah. I was sore from laughing the next day.

Love to All
Rell

Our Farm Stay

2010-01-07T21:52:00.000+11:00

We stayed a few nights up with Lin and Shayne on the farm. I love staying with them and so do the boys. We always have a good time on the farm. One of the boys favourite things to do is to hang out the window of the car as we go up the track to their house. They love the fact that they can take off their seatbelts and walk on the wildside. On the day that this photo was taken BJ decided that she too was going to hang out the window to try the experience - she loved it as well. I wanted to try too but I didn't think that this was a good idea considering I was driving LOL.
Love to All
Rell
PS I am still a real country girl at heart.

The Bandibandi

2010-01-05T21:38:00.000+11:00

On one of our little adventures we accidently ran over a BandiBandi Snake. I have only seen one other snake like this - apparently they are really rare. One of sisters thought that they were on the endangered species list (which made us feel really good). The boys were a little freaked out when we went back to see what we had run over. They wouldn't let me hop out of the car. Ben must have know that we were going to come across a snake as he was sayng earlier there are snakes here and I want to go home. He was right!

Love to All
Rell

Feels Like Home To Me

2010-01-04T21:13:00.001+11:00

Well I made the trip home to Dungarubba - the place where I am from. We spent a week with my family and had a lovely time. These photos were taken from about 1km from mum and dad's house at the river. It was just on sunset - my favourite part of the day. When I am home I am constantly looking out the window to see the sunset. My family take it for granted as they see the sunset everyday but I only get to see a few sunsets. I miss the sunsets and I miss seeing the beautiful night sky that is lit up with millions of stars. Stars are harder to see in the city but when I am home the sky is littered with them. There are so many things I associate with home - I love windmill as we had one that you could see from our kitchen window, the beautiful big trees, the cane fields, the frogs that perch on the verandah and talk to you at night, the old dairy that is now falling down and the Eastern Rosellas and wild birds that freely. Feels like home to me.

Love to All
RELL

My first Lockie Scrap

2010-01-02T19:24:00.000+11:00

Just a scrapping share of gorgous little Lockie. Not the best photo of the layout - but I just love his little smirk. I want to get better at photographing my layouts - my aim for the year.

Love to all
Rell

Happy New Year to Everyone

2010-01-01T19:06:00.000+11:00

We had a really quite New Year - we just decided to stay home. We played games in the pool all afternoon. Ben was riding his pool pony as a bull and tried his best to stay on it for 8 seconds as this is the bull riding time limit. Now I know that you don't think that this is a long time to stay on the pool pony but it is as I too tried to ride the bull and was lucky to make 2 seconds. A quite dinner at home. We ended up going to bed at 1.30pm - the boys probably would have stayed up longer but it was time for bed for the adults.

I love New Year and the promise of what lies ahead. Everyone makes their resolutions and generally feel positive about the possibilities. My only resolution is "LESS IS MORE" and I will continue to say that to myself throughout the year and hopefully that will help me keep things under control. I have been cleaning up and that is what I have been telling myself - "LESS IS MORE" less to clean, dust and pick up. I am going to try and be even more organised this year. We have a big year ahead of us with many major events (Boy's communion and confirmation, Chris turns 50, Belinda (sister) turns 30, mum and dad's 50 th wedding Anniversary, Lockies 1st birthday) and they are just the big things.

This year I plan to spend more time with my family (more time with dad as he is slipping away). I want to go away with my family more. I want to focus less on work and more on what matters to me most.

Hope that everyone had a great New Year. Here's to a great 2010

Love and positive thoughts to all
Rell

They Grow Up Way Too Fast

2009-12-28T19:33:00.000+11:00

The other day the boys decided to make a new jump for their bike. So the boys got to work using the timber that we had lying around the house. They had hammer, nails. measuring tapes and even the electric jigsaw out. I looked out at these independent boys and wondered where my little babies went. The end results was fantastic and the boys got hours of enjoyment out of the jump - I think that they loved it even more because they had made it themselves.

They really do grow up way too fast - in the blink of an eye they became independent.

Love to All
Rell

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-25T18:26:00.000+11:00

Christmas seems to come around faster every year and I know that we all say that but I serious believe that the older you get the faster time goes. That must mean that I am getting pretty old as time flies around here. Christmas was good this year apart from the kids not sleeping Christmas Eve. They were seriously up all night. Michelle and I were talking about what we use to do on Christmas eve and how we too would stay awake all night in order to try and catch Santa out. My mum told me that I am getting my own back now. Kind of wish that I had not been so wicked (my middle name). The boys got everything that they wanted and were more than happy with their Santa sacks.

I love these photos of the boys. These were the photos that I took earlier in the year ready for the Christmas cards. It was the first year that I never sent Christmas cards and for that I am a little sad as I love receiving them and I usually put some effort into my cards. No time as silly season had me bad and school was crazy. I literally just had to keep my head above water.

Hope that everyone had a beautiful day and that you were all spoilt.

Love to All

Rell

Welcome Baby Flynn

2009-12-21T18:39:00.001+11:00

On the 21st of December my beautiful friend Belinda had a gorgeous little boy - Flynn. She is amazing as I don't think I heard her complain once. I so wanted to be there for her as I love little babies (think that I missed my calling as a midwife). I went to visit the following day and got to help out with his first bath and then we got to take Max home for a few hours. I really enjoyed being around and little Flynn is just gorgeous. I love him to pieces. They are only little for such a short while and I feel very privledged to hold them.

A message to one of my dearest friends - I am extremely proud of you. You are amazing - you could not even tell that you had a baby!!!! I am so happy that you had another boy. Boys are great!!!! I think that little Flynn is ever so lucky to be born into such a wonderful family. He has a great mum and dad and a super big brother. Being a mum of boys does come with a few challenges but the joy they bring far outways these. You have given Max the best gift ever - a brother. Just wanted you to know how loved you are. Glad that I am a part of the adventure (Bel - sorry I stole your photo but I wanted to have one of him and I used your camera in the hospital - hope that you don't mind).

Love to the Howletts
Rell

Summer Soccer Season

2009-12-15T18:19:00.000+11:00

This year we decided to giver Summer Soccer a whirl. Luke stayed with his regular team but Ben played for the Robbins in an age groups above his own. Both boys had a great season, however Ben's team went through to the grandfinal and they lost 1-0. It was a sad end to a great season.

Love to All Rell

How Hot Is He????

2009-12-14T17:56:00.000+11:00

On the 14th of December we (Shell, Mary,Ree and I) went to see the gorgeous Keith Urban. We had a top night out shaking our tail feathers - boy did we shake our tail feathers. We had really good seats BUT I didn't want to sit down when I found that you could dance up the front. I got some great photos as Keithy was almost close enough for me to reach. If only I could have got my hand to him. Keithy if you ever need an official photographer look me up. I loved you before Nicole did (LOL). It was a great night out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxwLQmPHkT8

Love to All Rell

Swimming Carnival 2009

2009-12-05T21:29:00.000+11:00

The boys did exceptionally well in their Swimming Carnival. It was Ben's first year and he got 1st in Breaststroke and 1st in Freestyle. Luke came 1st in Freestyle, 2nd in Breaststroke, 2nd in Butterfly. He came 2nd in the 100m Freestyle and then entered the 2oom Individual Medley and got piped in the touching of the wall and missed out on third. Luke was then selected for the Relay Team and they came 2nd. So it was a top day. We all came home exhausted as it was a big day in the sun. I am extremely proud of my boys.

Love to All
Rell

Lachlan's Christening

2009-12-03T21:00:00.000+11:00

Lockie was Christened on Sunday and he was such a good boy. He was in church for 3 hours and did not bat an eye. I was priveleged to be Lachlan's Godmother. He actually enjoyed the Christening and smiled through the Holy Water. I think that he was quietly saying more as it was a hot day. The Christening go to much for Lockie and he fell asleep. Shell and John did a great job of the day. We had a lovely time. I am ever so proud to be his Godmother as I always wanted 3 boys and now I do!

Love to All
Rell

Published in Scrapbook Creations

2009-12-03T20:45:00.000+11:00

Things have been so busy around here that I have not shared my recent layout to be published in Scrapbook Creations in the November Issue. It was a part of the 20/40/60 Minute Challenge. I had the 40minutes one and I loved working with these Websters papers.

Hope that all is well in everyone's worlds.
Love to All
Rell

2 CHEEKY CHICKENS

2009-11-22T22:27:00.000+11:00

Here is another layout that I created last weekened. I so wanted to share then as I just love this little embellishment but my computer was being very unco-operative. So this is another "Time to Create Product" that you too can get your hands on. I am telling you this little one will go very quickly so put your order in. I just love it and all of the hard work is done for you. I thought that the embellishment summed up the photo perfectly - 2 Cheeky Chickens!

So you can order this product by emailing Julie on: julie@timetocreate.com.au and you will be able to link soon to

Soon this link will have all of Julie's products on there for you to browse through. I can't wait for the link to go up myself.

Love to All
Rell

Wonder

2009-11-20T22:17:00.001+11:00

Here is a layout that I created with the beautiful "Time to Create" products. These embellishment come in both green and blue. I feel truly honoured to get to work with these products and they are available for you to purchase too. You can contact Julie here:

julie@timetocreate.com.au or julie@julieshort.com.au

and soon you will find the products on this link:

http://timetocreate.com.au

Hope that this may inspire someone out there as some days that is all we need a little inspiration.

Love To All
Rell

TIME TO CREATE

2009-11-20T22:03:00.000+11:00

Look at all of these beautiful products that turned up on my doorstep last week. They are all just gorgeous and I can't wait to use them. They are products from the Time to Create range and have been designed by a very clever lady -Julie Short. What I will be doing is showing you a product a week and how I have used the product on a layout. Here are some details of how you too can design with the GORGEOUS Time to Create product. They are all handmade-nothing commercial about them and I can say that you won't find anything like them on the market.

You can find Julie's products at:

Soon at http://timetocreate.com.au
At the moment : julie@timetocreate.com.au or julie@julieshort.com.au

Please stay tuned for more information or drop Julie a line via her email to let her know what you think of her product.

Love to All
Rell

Our Family is Growing

2009-11-20T21:46:00.000+11:00

Now before you all get too excited I am not having another baby-we have 2 new Guinea Pigs. Both are little girls and they are just gorgeous. Ben's is the black one and it's name is Stripes. The white one is Luke's and her name is Moesha. She got her name because she has a mohawk and a bit of a temper like another Moesha that I know. They are just beautiful little animals. I have never had Guinea Pigs before so this was a first for me. But I would have to recomment them!!!!
Love to All
Rell

Sad-so so SAD

2009-11-19T22:42:00.002+11:00

Well as most of you know I am a Twilight freak (or a Twihard) and I had a ticket to go and see New Moon but I was sick and missed the event. I was not happy at all. My friends went off and had a brilliant night. I had my money returned so I will have to go and see it at another time. I had a massive headache, stomach cramp, sore back, aching ribs and generally felt like I had nothing to offer the world. I am actually thankful that I didn't go as I had a big day at work and being sleep deprived may not have been the best idea when so many little treasures need you. So I am very envious of the TWIHARD fans out there - but my body said no!!!!!
Love To All
Rell
PS My computer has died and now I am using a lap top to get in touch with the outside world.

Sunday - How I Love Sunday!!!!

2009-11-08T18:16:00.003+11:00

Outside my window...our beautiful pool and the filter running. The boys playing in the backyard. They hate when I call them in Sunday afternoon as their weekend in over.

I am thinking...that I wish I had of accomplished more on the weekend. I wish that I had of got more scrapping done. Had the time but found it hard to pull the inspiration.

I am thankful for...many things. Firstly my two beautiful boys who are my world, my great family, truly wonderful friends, the best job and that I have enough to be comfortable.

From the kitchen...a leg of lamb in the oven ready for the Sunday Roast. A tradition in our household. Left overs go onto lunches for the week.

I am wearing...cas clothes. Demin jeans and t-shirt and daggy thongs that I love.

I am creating...some layouts of Lachlan for the shop (MTL).
I am also creating Lachlan's invitations for his Christening.

I am going...to be happy when the Christmas holidays arrive. My mum always told me not to wish my life away - but I can't wait for the sleep ins, the lazy days, the kids spending their time in and out of the pool. Love IT!

I am reading...Lovely Bones. Just finished the Twilight Series.

I am hoping...that this week is a good one as I know that it is going to be super busy. Soccer 3 nights (with one night both boys playing), swimming 2 nights, work and life in general.

I am hearing...the boys munching on a Sunny Boy and the Simpsons in the background. I hate the Simpsons with a passion and don't very often let the boys watch them.

Around the house...Mostly tidy, lego, layouts to be completed, school clothes organised ready for the week, our new guinea pigs LOL

One of my favourite things...the smell of vanilla or fresh sheets, or the rain.

A few plans for the rest of the week...running from here to there, trying to keep up, trying to make sure that I don't forget anything.

A picture to share...I'll share one of my favourite pictures taken by my beautiful and talented friend Belinda

Our Aquarium Visit

2009-11-06T22:41:00.001+11:00

In the holidays we spent a family day out in the city. We visited the Aquarium and I really enjoyed it. I have to say that the eels were a little freaky. They were moving in and out of these pipes. Now they were slimy and ugly but I just could not pull myself away from watching them. I also loved the Dugong exhibition - they were amazing. Even though the kids knew what to expect they had a great time. I also loved the sting rays (believe it or not I have not been too scared by the one that I ran over). I loved the way that they would come right up to the glass and it always looked like they were smiling at you. I don't know - maybe they were laughing at me?????? A really good day. Need to do more things like that with the kids as before you know it they will be grown up and too cool to do parent outings. I think I had some kind of connection with all of the weird animals????LOL

Love to All
Rell

2009 - School Review

2009-11-04T20:06:00.000+11:00

Just a share - I created a page each for the boys that capture what the school year was like for each of them.
Love to All
Rell

Cheeky Monkey

2009-11-03T20:03:00.000+11:00

A layout that I produced during the holidays. I quite like it as it sums up Ben perfectly.

Love to All
Rell

Boys Will Be Boys

2009-11-02T19:41:00.000+11:00

Last weekend the kids were out the front having snail races with the snails that they found. They didn't know that I was watching. Ben come inside and asked if he could have a permanent marker. I said that it would not be a good idea to give snails numbers on their backs. He looked at me wondering how I knew what he was up to. I have tried to teach him that a mother always knows. LOL - The boys wanted to number the snails to keep better track of them. Have to keep your eye on those boys!!!!!

Love to All
Rell

My Sisters

2009-11-02T19:33:00.000+11:00

Had a great weekend recently when my sisters came to Sydney to visit. Idol was so much fun!!!!! A weekend full of laughs.

Love to All
Rell

Cheeky Little One

2009-11-02T19:15:00.000+11:00

Here are some recent photos of my little man. He is so sweet and you can tell that he has a beautiful personality. He is always so happy and easy going. He also offers smiles to anyone that stops to talk to him. He is just gorgeous.

Love to All
Aunty Rell

Oh What a Night

2009-10-26T20:47:00.000+11:00

Well Belinda and Maryann (my two sisters) were in town for the weekend. We had such a good weekend. I don't remember laughing so much. We went on the shopping tour on Saturday and to Idol on Sunday night. Boy did we have a good night. It was so much fun. Can't wait to go again. We had prime position to stir up the judges and close enough to the contestants. I even go to hold Andrew's hand. So much fun. It was a great night to be at Idol.

A top weekend. I didn't want it to end.
Love to all
Rell

Happy Birthday Bel

2009-10-21T10:52:00.000+11:00

Just wanted to say Happy Birthday to one of my dearest friends Belinda. Love you heaps and the Bonnyrigg days would not be the same without you. You make me laugh and we muddle our way through the stressful times that can sometimes hit. I hope that you day is special in every way. I just hope that your working day isn't as special as it normally is.

Love You Long, Long Time
Rell

They Are Gone

2009-10-18T21:25:00.003+11:00

These holidays involved 3 movies, a trip to the Aquarium, Imax Theatre, Maritime Museum, Tics Tocs, cousins birthday party, Luna Park, 3 play dates with friends, 3 sleep overs, soccer, swimming, 3 training sessions for discus and a whole lot of other little things stacked in there and that was just for the boys.

For me it was a lot of cleaning out cupboards that desperately needed them, some reading and yes I finished the Twilight series, some scrapping, some school work, catching up with a few friends and some lovely sleep ins. I really enjoyed these holidays!!!!

Well the holidays are over and I mostly achieved the things that I wanted to. They always seem to fly by but only 9 weeks until the next ones.

I am really looking forward to next weekend when 2 of my sisters come to Sydney for our annual shopping trip. We are also going to Idol on Sunday night so look out for us. It should be a good weekend. So at least with the holidays ending I still have something to look forward to.

Hope that those who had a break enjoyed their time.

Love To All
Rell

Published

2009-10-13T22:00:00.000+11:00

Here are the three layouts that have been published in Scrapbook Creations -Issue 71. I did a journaling article on the "Lessons I Have Learnt." I love the fact that my mum and dad have been published as this will give them such a big thrill. I took the photo at Dad's 70th Birthday party.

Love to All
Rell
PS Loving every moment of these holiday. I am off to do some scrapping as I am a little behind on this front.

Ok It Is Officially Over

2009-10-11T23:56:00.000+11:00

Well that probably got your attention. I have finally finished "Breaking Dawn." I so enjoyed reading this series and now it is over. I did it and now I wish that I hadn't. The ending was OK - I may have been expecting a little more as I had built it up so much in my own head. So I can now cross off item no.1 on the holiday list. Bring on item no.2 another read.

Time going too quickly. One week down -one to go. I hope that I can fit in as much in the second week as I have the first.

Love to all
Rell

Today Was A Good Day

2009-10-10T00:22:00.001+11:00

Today was a great day - we had nothing planned and the day mapped itself out. First the boys went to the park to train in discus and shot put.

Then I decided to go and visit Shell and I thought that I would take them Maccas for lunch. When we at Shell's she had a friend over and she was talking about a horse that she knew of. We were mucking around and laughing about times at the races. The horse had good odds and so I encouraged Shell and Andrea to go and place a bet on it. I had a good and strong feeling about it. Well it won and so did we. I won $800 and Shell won double that. It was the only bet that we put on all day. I was laughing with the girls as Andrea is Heavily pregnant and I was telling them that they would need to leave plenty of time to get to the TAB as it would take her 10 minutes to get off the lounge and Michelle would need to pack the nappy bag. A funny day. Yes we picked the winner of the Caulflied Guinesses!!!! It hit the lead and never looked back.

The extra bonus of the day was that I got to nurse Lockie for a couple of hours and money can't buy that.

Then John decided to pick me some roses from his garden as he know how much I love them. Magic!!!! I just love them. I have three vases full at the moment and the scent is so sweet. Everytime I smell the beautiful fragrance they make me smile. I love fresh flowers and the fact that they smell makes them even better.

So my good deed in taking my sis lunch well and truly paid off - a little bit of Karma.

What a top day!!!!!

Love to All
Rell

PS The owls were a little find shopping the other day. I just love them and wanted to share them. I love owls!!!!!

Clear Your Clutter 101

2009-10-09T22:57:00.003+11:00

OK so I have now been on holidays for one week and what can I tick off my list?????

I have been doing bits here and there. I went and donated 16 bags of clothing to Vinnies today. I filled the bin last week and I have already filled it for this week. I can feel the house breathe a sigh of relief as I think that it was ready to split at the seams if I was to try and fit one more thing in.

What I have learnt:
a) you can't keep everything -I know this because I have tried.
b) I am really good at stashing things and squeezing things into tiny places.
c) clearing the clutter is completely liberating and brings with it a sense of freedom.
d) you don't always need things to keep as memories as most of it is in your head (and if that ever fade in the case of old age - things won't necessarily help bring those memories back.

NO 1) I haven't finished reading the last book in the Twilight series (don't know if I can bring myself to do it as I really don't want it to be over). I bet this is the one thing still left on the list - the hardest one.

No 2) Finish the other book-Lovely Bones.

TICK 3) Clean out my wardrobe - gave it a serious overhaul and bought some lovely timber coathangers -little bit fancy. I then let Shelly loose and she is a little anally retentive and she started to colour code it. I also let her throw out anything that she has not see me wear in a while and she found two tops.

TICK 4) I have produced 5 layouts to date which meets the at least one layout per day quota. I also have made the beautiful tin for the Crop for a Cure Fundraiser.

NO 5) Go and buy some more uniforms for the boys - summer.

HALF 6) Help Shelly organise Lachlan's Christening - Make the invitations. I have taken some photos ready to do this one.

TICK 7) Bathed the dog that was orange from the dust storm - managed to get her lovely and white and I didn't even use White King.

TICK 8) Defrosted the freezer and cleaned the fridge out.

STARTED 9) Organise myself for school for the term coming up.

NO 10) Take some nice photos of the boys and have an editing lesson (can't wait Bel - let me know).

STARTED 11) Start thinking about Christmas - have started to buy a few odds and sods.

NO 12) Try to get photos organised - burn CD with Lachlan's photos onto one disk for Michelle.

A wholy SHIT big TICK 13)Clean out the top of the wardrobe in Luke's room - Man this was a huge task that I had put off for so many years. I now understand why I have put it off for so long. This is where most of the stuff from Vinnies came from. I had Size 3 clothes in there. I am so glad that this one is over and now the rest seem easy -except number 1.

NO 14) Clean out scrapbooking supplies. A place for everything and everything in its place.

NO 15) Programming for the classes that I work with!!!! All ready to go.
Well and truly underway

16) Some major house cleaning - Clearing the clutter.

NO and I don't know if I am going to get the chance 17) I would love to get to school one day and clean out my horrid office. I never give myself the time that I need to get organised. I want to be organised!!!! It is a big job - but it just may be tackled.

TICK 18) Clean my desk draws at home - buy new printer cartridges. No more junk to be found in the drawers and I come to the realisation that I have about 20 glue sticks.

NO 19) Organise some photos to have printed onto canvases and buy shelf from IKEA to put in the dinning room.

TICK 20) Sleep in and get some well deserved rest! Believe it or not Dan I have slept in until 9am every morning except for one day. I am a little scared that I am not going to be able to get up when school goes back.

Well as you can see I have about half of the list complete. We have also been to see the movie "Up", Ben had his best friend over one day, Luke played with Jayden, the boys learnt how to throw a discus and now have bought one to practice with, spent time with Shell and Lockie and I have taken the boys to Tic Toks. Next week we have something planned for every day and we have the usual soccer 2 nights and swimming 2 nights. I can see the week flying by. Never mind I plan to enjoy it and even if I achieve nothing else my house can breathe again and I feel much better.

So I would highly recommend putting a list together as it has helped keep me honest and motivated as I know that other people know.

Hope that everyone else is enjoying their holiday.
Love to All
Rell

Loving the Holidays

2009-10-09T00:11:00.000+11:00

On Thursday Luke and Ben went to train with Di. She taught them how to throw Discus and Shot Put. The boys had a great time and needed to go out and buy their own so they could continue to train. As per usual Ben picked up the skills automatically and as for Luke - well he is still working on it.

Love to All
Rell

How Cute Is He

2009-10-07T17:26:00.000+11:00

Took some photos of Lachlan today. My boy is now 10 weeks old. He was in a lovely mood and I took full advantage of it. These photos are so cute.
Love him to pieces.

Love to All
Rell

The List

2009-10-04T21:32:00.001+11:00

Hey There,
No Dan this isn't your kind of list -this is a list of things that I would like to achieve in the holidays.

1) Finish reading the last book in the Twilight series (don't know if I can bring myself to do it as I really don't want it to be over).
2) Finish the other book that I started in order to avoid reading the last of the other series - Lovely Bones. It is a book that I would highly recommend (apparently the movie is soon to come out - must get busy).
3) Clean out my wardrobe - give it a serious overhaul (Vinnies here we come).
4) Produce at least one layout per day - if not more. I have to go and get started as I am making a beautiful tin for the Crop for a Cure Fundraiser. Wanted to do something positive for a good cause.
5) Go and buy some more uniforms for the boys - summer.
6) Help Shelly organise Lachlan's Christening - Make the invitations.
7) Bath the dog that is orange from the dust storm - see if I can get her white again. Don't like my chances!!!!!!
8) Defrost the freezer and clean the fridge out.
9) Organise myself for school for the term coming up. There will be a sub list that goes with this one. It is a short term and I can see everything catching up with me. Want to be on top of it all.
10) Take some nice photos of the boys and have an editing lesson (can't wait Bel - let me know).
11) Start thinking about Christmas - maybe some shopping.
12) Try to get photos organised - burn CD with Lachlan's photos onto one disk for Michelle.
13)Clean out the top of the wardrobe in Luke's room - where all the crap goes. Maybe all crap must go (out the door)! Which raises my concern of the smaller bins - will have to recycle as much as possible.
14) Clean out scrapbooking supplies. A place for everything and everything in its place.
15) Programming for the classes that I work with!!!! All ready to go.
16) Some major house cleaning - maybe if I focus on a room a day. This includes dusting - cupboards cleans out. Clear the clutter.
17) I would love to get to school one day and clean out my horrid office. I never give myself the time that I need to get organised. I want to be organised!!!! It is a big job - but it just may be tackled.
18) Clean my desk draws at home - buy new printer cartridges.
19) Organise some photos to have printed onto canvases and buy shelf from IKEA to put in the dinning room.
20) Sleep in and get some well deserved rest!

OK So that is the plan for the moment. Should be enough to keep me going!!!!! I will try and take photos along the way to keep you updated on my progress. Boy I am tired thinking about all that I want to achieve. Wish me luck.
Love to All
Rell

Another Share

2009-10-03T20:57:00.000+10:00

This is a tin that I made for a fundraiser - Crop for a Cure that Memories that Last are having. It is going to be auctioned off. I was happy to help out such a worthy cause.

I think that I should get busy on this project as only two people have seen the tin while it was at home and those two people put in a Christmas order.

Love to All
Rell

Look at These Gorgeous Boys

2009-10-03T20:51:00.001+10:00

Here is another layout using Prima!!! Love the 12x12 cardboard. I have some major scrapping to do these holidays.

Love To All
Rell

A Share

2009-10-02T20:45:00.002+10:00

Howdy Everyone,
I thought that I would start the holidays with a scrapping share. These layouts are for Memories That Last so if you want to see the real thing they are displayed in the shop.

I am ever so glad that the holidays are here. We have no major plans-just to do little things around here like go to the movies, scrapbooking, reading and spend time with the kids. My kids have plans to spend time with their friends - dates have already been booked. Yippeee

Off to enjoy my holidays - smile on face!!
Love to All
Rell

Blessed

2009-09-25T09:36:00.000+10:00

I have been blessed. I have so many beautiful people in my life. I know that I am lucky. I have two beautiful boys, a lovely family and I married into a gorgeous family as well. Then I have the best set of friends a girl could ever ask for. Yes I am blessed and as I scanned my photos this morning I couldn't help but think how lucky I am.

Love to All
Rell