Stacie and Kaleb: Our Family Life.

New Blog address

2010-07-21T09:28:00.003+10:00

The time has come to revamp my blog.

From now on, updates can be found via http://stacewyllie.blogspot.com - updating and revitalising the new blog has been a fantastically therapeutic experience. I look forward to sharing our moments over time at my new home-away-from-home.

It's been too long Blogger ...

2010-05-07T19:46:00.004+10:00

Good lord, I've just seen the date of my last post and it's almost 12 months ago *slaps hand* aren't I neglectful LOL

Well, I'll try to keep it as simple as I possibly can, there have been a few twists and turns since my last update - main point of fact lately is that we're relocating *back* to the Gold Coast, this time to the hinterland. I've had a great time in the outer suburbs of Brisbane but it's time to get serious and move to where the support and services are. .. I'll be gloriously close to my family, who have already offered their services as babysitter and general dogsbody (ok, maybe not that last one but one can dream), and I'm taking them up on their offer - it's a little difficult to co ordinate babysitting efforts when we're over an hour away from each other!

I'm travelling along with my Nursing degree, via Charles Darwin University -- external study suits me so much better, as evidenced by my first two exam results; 75% and 95% respectively!! Genius much? I think so LOL :P Since I've committed myself to the move it's been a little more challenging to get work done but I'm confident that I'll just scrape by at the end of semester in a few weeks.

What else is there? Lots of small things really, Kaleb is succeeding more and more in his efforts to socialise with other children not on the spectrum, and it's been really wonderful- I must look a right dope sitting in play centres with big fat happy tears rolling down my face but darnit! It's nothing short of a miracle when compared to how he was at the time of my last blog update--- I hardly recognise him now, especially since we've also successfully navigated the professional haircut LOL He looks so much cuter now he doesn't have that Shaggy Rogers mop anymore .. it could do with a little more of a tidy up but overall the results are great :)

It'll certainly be a period of adjustment when we move, but I've lined up a place in the ECDU (Early Childhood Development Unit for those who don't know) at Burleigh heads, I've been in touch with a good Nutritionist/Naturopath who specialises in ASD children and their gut issues (which hopefully translates into a better diet for Kaleb and the eradication of any nasty toxins in his system that have been sitting in there since goodness-knows how long), we're even *finally* sorting out the Helping Children with Autism funding (the Govt program that gives $6000 a year for 2 years that goes towards early intervention therapies) - lots to give him that last helping boost before he starts Prep next year.

Eeeek! Did I say Prep? I did didn't I LOL It makes me feel so much older now, although I don't feel it (and with STILL zero grey hairs LOL) .. it's a big milestone of course, and I've been researching my little butt off looking at the various schools in the area - I've been lucky enough to have had chats with almost all of the Principals too which has been no mean feat! I've narrowed it down to 2 schools, both within decent driving distance (ie. not out the back of Burke), so it's a case of visiting when we arrive on the Gold Coast and seeing which one Kaleb 'clicks' with.

Now for some photos (and in no particular order LOL)!! I know you've been positively dying to see how he's grown so I better not keep you in suspense any longer :)

*Kaleb's experience at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary - feeding the Kangaroos!

*Christmas 2009 photo 1: Kaleb delving into the Santa sack

*Christmas 2009 photo 2: The fantastically festive tree

*Christmas 2009 photo 3: The new Sand'n'Water table (not easy to put together let me tell you!)

* Happy 4th Birthday Kaleb ♥ cake at playgroup

*2010 - 4th Birthday photo 2: one very excited boy opening his presents!

*Happy Easter 2010 from Kaleb the Bunny

*The infamous '21st' photo perhaps? Busted! Dozing off in the car

*Cousins Alahni and Kaleb: who both look like mini versions of their fathers

*ECDU Christmas Party 2009: Kaleb and his little friend

So that's my catch up update .. I really hope it won't be so long between this and the next update!

Sxx

Update June 13th

2009-06-13T20:50:00.003+10:00

OMGosh another blog that's been left by the wayside since my life became ten shades of hectic!! My craft blog has also suffered terribly since I've been AWOL :)

Things have been really happening since my last update - when I last posted I think it was just at the beginning of the University semester.... WELL, let me tell you that I've already learnt so much (the rat dissection in our first labratory class was definately an eye-opener LOL). I passed my mid-semester exams and have been really enjoying studying, although I will be honest and say that getting back into the swing of 'school life' hasn't exactly been the easiest transition I've ever had!

Work-wise things are going along nicely. I have 2 clients that I look after each week and they're both extremely flexible which means *hopefully* minimal hassles when it comes to next semester and my timetables (which are likely to change). I still really enjoy the work, physically it's helping build my strength and endurance and I get some 'head space' time to just chill, tune out and think about nothing which is virtually impossible for me at any other time of the day/week.

Kaleb is coming along at a good pace also, thanks to the fantastic help from his ECDP (Early Childhood Development Unit for the uninitiated!) - he's so fascinated by anything and everything to do with animals and nature, but especially lizards/snakes/beetles and bugs .. even birds! It's been wonderful to share in that fascination; we now have stacks of lizard/snake toys, books and even a few DVD's coming (Steve Irwin) that will indulge his special interest. Speech-wise, he's definitely coming out of his shell more, talking in more complete sentences instead of just echoing back but I gotta tell you, his constantly asking 'what does xxxxx do?' just about drives me around the bend some days LOL We've even started attending a local Autism-specific playgroup which has been really nice, I get to meet with some other parents in my situation and compare notes as well as give Kaleb the opportunity to interact with children 'just like him', without having to constantly be on the lookout and explaining to parents why he is the way he is.

We've been in our new home for almost 3 months now and it's going wonderfully -- we've really settled in and I'm absolutely enjoying doing up our very own home, just the way I want. The backyard has been cleaned, trees trimmed (by MYSELF! Very proud DIY moments there :p) and I've even started a small potted vegetable garden :) I'm growing tomato, capsicum, spring onion, garlic chives and basil. I really didn't think it'd be possible, given my history with plants - but it's amazing how much they've grown in a few short weeks! I'm feeling very handy LOL Kaleb enjoys it almost as much as I do, I've shown him how we pot the plants, how to water them every few days and to make sure they get lots of sunshine.. he really enjoys being able to help and I hope it can teach him something at the same time :)

There's not much else that I can think of to update about right now, so I'll finish this awfully long-winded post with some photos :)

My vegetable 'garden'

Kaleb rough-housing with Aunty Demii

Worn out after a big day of exploring

What a wonderful playground!! Kaleb's ECDP Unit

I PROMISE that I won't leave it so long between posts next time!
Til then
Stace xox

Update 2nd March 2009.

2009-03-02T10:17:00.003+11:00

Well it sure has been a LONG time between updates! Lots has been happening for us over the last few months ... I've started my Nursing Degree at Griffith University and whilst I love it there is a lot of information I need to digest!!! Thankfully my girlfriend is in the same course and we share notes and ideas.

Big news of course is that on Feb 24th, Kaleb celebrated his THIRD birthday!!! He is such a big boy now, it's amazing to think back to when he was just a tiny newborn babe *sniffle* He got some great gifts from everyone but I think his favourite was the Mr Potato Head that Nan and Pop got him! He loves it and plays with it at every chance he gets :)

Kaleb has started at a new daycare centre who have experience in caring for children with Special Needs and they have been so supportive and really dedicated in bringing out the best in Kaleb. He's learning Makaton, which is a sign language children can use if they are unable to express themselves in other ways. He loves going there each day, in fact he runs to the gate in the morning and can't wait to see 'Snappy the Turtle' and the fish that live in his room.

We've had numerous specialist appointments over the past few weeks also and most recently we saw a wonderful specialist who has given us the indication that we are dealing with more than just a behavioural/attention disorder. In no way does the upcoming diagnosis change who my little boy is, it simply provides us with the means to get the help and support he needs to excel and to move forward and improve as best he can. Of course it's been hard for me to come to terms with everything and I'm still dealing with those feelings of grief and disbelief but that's perfectly normal and it doesn't diminish the love I feel for my special little man - in fact, I love him more than ever (if that's possible!) and I now take a different view of things: he was sent to me as a gift, he chose me as his mother because he knew I would never give up, that I would never stop fighting for him. Our bond is that much stronger now.

Life in general has been a rollercoaster ride and it's not stopped yet!! We're officially on the hunt for a new home and there are some great houses in the area that I think would suit our needs quite well ... they all have enormous backyards which is at the top of my wishlist and I'm really looking forward to our new adventure.

As always, the sharing of some recent photographs:

My University Campus - isn't it gorgeous!

Kaleb enjoying the surf at Burleigh Heads

Having fun with his little cousin Alahni

The Birthday Boy loves his presents!

Update 26th December 2008

2008-12-27T15:31:00.004+11:00

I hope you're all enjoying the festive season!!

Kaleb and I stayed at my parents house on Christmas Eve-Day so that we would all be able to open the presents together in the morning. Kaleb slept all the way there as per usual and we had a very relaxing afternoon swimming in the pool and lazing around in the heat.

Christmas morning I got to sleep in until 7am so that was one of many Christmas surprises from Kaleb! It's not often that I wake before he does LOL There were so many presents for him, and considering that I left ALOT separated out for his birthday he still outnumbered everyone else under the tree this year :) It was great though, he had so much fun unwrapping his presents by himself this time around, he loved it so much he started opening other peoples presents too (Whoops!) .. I wasn't able to get any pictures from my own camera - in all the excitement, I had forgotten to charge my camera battery.

I did however get some fantastic photographs of the Christmas lights in our nearby suburbs.

Also, here are some shots this morning of Kaleb playing with his toys.

Today was a very relaxing day - we did go out at one stage to brave the stores in order to get some photos printed off and to get some discounted decorations for next year (why pay full-price when you can shop smart and get them cheaper hehe).

Wishing you all the very best for 2009!

TFL xox

Update 14 December 2008

2008-12-14T16:29:00.003+11:00

It's been a long while since I last updated so I thought I should pull my finger out and let you all in on the good news (for those of you who haven't heard), and also to share some recent photographs.

First things first - I got accepted into my University course! Yippee! I cried when I read my email notification LOL I just couldn't believe that I'd done it! I'd made the first step towards my dream of becoming a Nurse... I start on March 2nd and there are so many things that need to be done prior to this date but I'm taking small steps, planning it all so I don't get too overwhelmed which is COMPLETELY easy to do! I've enrolled in my 1st semester subjects already and have signed up for an introductory 'getting around Uni' course. There are plenty of other pre-semester workshops aimed to help us adapt to Uni life but you don't sign up for them, I have the dates marked on my calendar don't you worry :)

Work is still going great - I'll be taking 2weeks' leave over Christmas to spend time at home preparing for the New Year and to give myself a break, some time to relax and maybe even take a small trip to the coast??? Nothing is set in stone so we'll see what happens on the day. I've finished my class hours for my Certificate III so am now at the stage of being assessed in my client's homes. One more certification to add to my collection!

Kaleb has also started at a new daycare centre during the last 2weeks. His Familydaycarer has gone overseas for a few months and I've decided to keep him in a daycare centre for a few reasons. Mainly because he needs all the space he can get, being as active as he is, and also because there is more structure and focus on social and skill development in a centre than what I found in a domestic environment. He's at daycare 2 days a week at the moment but I've had full-time placement guaranteed for me come the start of school next year. It's such a great centre and it's only a few hundred meters up the road from us. The carers are excellent, so attentive and patient with Kaleb and while he has his moments of separation anxiety (whenever I leave!) he soon settles down and involves himself in the activities of the day.

Kaleb wearing his new daycare centre hat

The weather's been quite hot and humid lately, with plenty of thunderstorms for us to watch. On the weekends we've been taking lots of walks (for the exercise as well as to escape the heat and catch some of the breeze) and it's done us both a lot of good ... I'm starting to get back to my pre-baby weight and I feel so much more energised and fresh. Unfortunately our plans were derailed somewhat last week when we both came down with an awful bout of gastroenteritis. I recovered quite well but it was SO hard to get enough rest when there's a recovering toddler in the house!

Beating the humidity!

Today was another warm day so we packed up early and went to the local pool - we got there when the gates opened at 9am and we had such a wonderful time! For those of you who know me, it's a rare event indeed for me to put on a bathing suit and get into the water but guess what? I swam today!! I even dug out my old bikini and IT STILL FITS! A little snug around the hips but overall not bad ;) I quite like my new shape, very womanly LOL Kaleb and I spent the majority of our time there in the shallow area, with him jumping in from the side of the pool, floating on his back with me, splashing each other and practising our freestyle as best we could. Later, we moved to the deeper area so Kaleb could make use of the waterslide, which he did with a vengeance! There were quite a few people there but we still had a lot of space to play and relax.

Kaleb at the water's edge

Wearing his new hooded towel

I'll update again after Christmas so have a Very Mery Festive Season!

TFL
Stace x

Time for another update:

2008-11-13T21:12:00.004+11:00

Hi all,

It's been quite awhile since I've updated here and there has been so much happening since then!

I've had a really good couple of days thanks to my sister and my niece coming up for more than a weekend! They came up last Tuesday and both Kaleb and I spent last weekend down on the Gold Coast at my parents' where they're staying and we had a lovely time.. I took another of my slices down for them to enjoy and I made sure to have my camera on hand so I could catch Kaleb and his cousin together - Kaleb was a little jealous of Alahni to begin with, that might have had something to do with my holding her at the time!! He loves his Mummy so much that he didn't want to share LOL

Things went downhill somewhat when Kaleb discovered that she had a bellybutton just like he did! He was a little over-eager in his attempts to get at her 'bellybuddin' and Alahni didn't like it one bit! Poor little mite!

Kaleb and Alahni:

Alahni in her Bumbo:

What a contortionist!

We also caught up with them today at a playcentre in Cleveland as they fly out on Saturday morning and I won't be able to catch up again. Kaleb was very gentle with his cousin this time around, he was more concerned with chasing all the other children around in the ride-on-car area! He was really enjoying himself, running up and down the playgym, sliding on his stomach down the slides (the little daredevil!), bouncing around the jumping castle and doing broadsides in one of the ride-on-cars ... it was so funny to watch! We were there for just over 2hrs and when it came time to leave, Kaleb didn't put up much of a fight - he was tuckered out from his big play! We stopped at the supermarket on the way home to pick up a few things and the little man fell asleep in his pram :) He slept for almost 2hrs when we got home soon afterwards so it was quite a long nap.

Enjoying the playcentre ride-on-cars:

Keeping busy in the playcentre:

As far as my adventures go, I'm still at TAFE studying towards my Certificate III in Cleaning Operations - we've almost finished the theory, next comes approximately 6weeks of assessments in clients' homes which I'm really looking forward to! Next education-related milestone for me is (hopefully) my acceptance offer into the Nursing course at Griffith ... class of 2009 here I come! I was talking with my friend 'G' today about it actually, she's currently studying at QU and she said that she'd be very surprised if I didn't get an offer so hopefully she's right!

I've also been getting back into the habit of donating blood every 3 months as my blood type is quite important for the Blood Banks - something to do with it being a universally acceptable donor type. I have my next appointment this coming Monday and as well as doing my part for the community, it will be another chance to pick the nurses' brains about their work LOL It was great last time as the nurse had only recently graduated from her RN degree so was full of useful information and hints/tips for me :)

We've also been cooking up a storm the last few days - Honey Bubble Crunch, Honey Joys, Choc-Chip cookies and all manner of slices and cakes ... it's been quite lovely! My pantry is still well-stocked so I don't need to hit the shops again for a little while to replenish my supplies. The only downside is that I'm wanting to find 'health conscious' recipes as I'm really focussing on getting my health under control and hence beginning a weight-loss/exercise plan. Kaleb and I have been taking an afternoon walk every day this week and it's been a lovely chance for us to have one-on-one time together out in the great outdoors. Our walks have ranged from half an hour to over an hour at a time and we both have huge appetites when we get back home! This afternoon's walk was close to an hour as we went further than we usually do, up to the school and back through a track running behind the houses. Kaleb was happy to hold my hand most of the way, although the poor munchkin got tired on the way home so I picked him up for some of the way - despite it being VERY humid, there was a nice breeze so it wasn't too bad. We had a small sunshower on the way back which helped keep us cool and comfortable :)

As you can see, there has been quite alot happening so at risk of sending you to sleep with more of our adventures, I'll leave it at that!

TFL x

Update Time

2008-10-29T12:26:00.003+11:00

Hi bloggers!

I thought it was high time for an update, it's been a while from what I remember and I don't want to keep you waiting too long!

Kaleb and I are doing really well of late - it's Springtime, and with the change of seasons comes a change of pace for the two of us. The sun is out more often, we get the occasional thunderstorm (and a good excuse to cuddle up in Mummy's bed and watch the lightening), but most of all there's something magical about the smell of fresh growing grass, flowers drifting to a resting place having been tugged by the wind from their garden bed home... like I said, magical!

Work has been work - still enjoying it immensely, and towards the end of the year I'm hoping to open my schedule to take on a few more clients. TAFE studies are almost over, which means that my Certificate III isn't too far away!

Kaleb has been his usual self, always cheeky, never sitting still for longer than five seconds, totally in love with his Mummy and I with him :) I can't believe that he's almost 3 years old! Where does the time go I wonder?
There have been a few developments with his behavioural troubles, resulting in a referral to a Paediatrician- my Familydaycare office is assisting with trying to get our name as close to the top of the list as possible - - with reports and their own referrals to add to mine. Fingers crossed for a speedy appointment!

Here are some pictures from our recent travels:

Playing in the spaceship at the park!

Relaxing on the stairs

By the pool with Aunty Demii

Plum tuckered out after a trip to see Nanny and Poppy

TFL

Facelifts and a change in the air ....

2008-10-13T20:50:00.004+11:00

I thought it was time to give the blog a facelift and I am very pleased with the results!! It took me FOREVER to choose a background, there were so many gorgeous examples to choose from!

I've also started another blog - this new one is for scrapping only and I'll obviously leave this blog for personal updates. If you're interested, you can follow the link ----> to Stacie's Scrap-shelf or you can just click HERE

There are a few updates of a personal nature so I might as well get them typed now so as not to keep you waiting any longer for new news!
Kaleb is maturing so much, I can't believe it! He reminds me so much of a mini-gentleman with the way that he walks around, his serious expressions when he's exploring and figuring things out, but mostly when he sees something he likes or if something catches his attention, he'll come running to me with a big smile and wide eyes and grabs my hand, pulling me towards the object of his attention saying "Come on Mummy, come on!" It's gorgeous!

This weeks' pictures are from the weekend - we had a lovely time indoors at home mostly as it was raining for the majority of Saturday and Sunday and although it warmed up occasionally, I wasn't about to let a dirt-loving boy loose in a yard with wet grass and muddy dirt!

TFL
Stace x

Katy Perry: Hot N Cold

2008-09-28T19:52:00.000+10:00

Photography Challenge Week 6: Windows

2008-09-28T18:10:00.002+10:00

Here is my entry for Week 6 of Purplescraps Scrapbooking Photography Challenge. This weeks' theme was 'Windows'

TFL
Stace x

Birthday Countdown and more ...

2008-09-28T17:36:00.003+10:00

Hi all,

Well as my title says, the Birthday Countdown is ON! It's only one more day until I'm officially 'over the hill' at the ripe old age of 27 :)

I'll be taking Kaleb and I to the Gold Coast to have a day of spoiling and celebration with the family - my sister and niece have flown up from Tasmania and they made a quick stop by on their way from the airport yesterday. Kaleb was very cute with the baby, stroking her head and even SHARING his toys with her! He even shared his dummy!! That was amazing as he never gives his dummy to ANYONE LOL.

We were going to head out the park for some afternoon delight but after packing everything into the car I realised I had left the interior fan on all night (Kaleb fell asleep in the car yesterday after our food shop and I turned the fan on while I waited for him to wake up) .... hence a flat battery GRR I had to wait for the RACQ man to come and save us but by that time it was too late to go to the park, and in any case I had to drive around for over an hour to recharge the car! The upside was that I found lots of interesting places that I want to go back and explore in more detail another time.

Kaleb is being his usual self, nothing new to report there. Driving his mother crazy with his constant activity and testing behaviour!

Here are some pictures of our adventures:

Playdough Fun

I can see my Bellybutton.

I'm the bucket monster Grrr!!!

I LOVE my books!

TFL
Stace x

Musings and catchings-up..

2008-09-17T12:11:00.002+10:00

It's been awhile since I've sat down to blog an actual update so here is what's been happening in our world.

I've applied for University! I was waiting on my results score from Tasmania which took a few days to come through and then I had to track down a JP to sign some transcripts but it's all squared away and I'm now waiting with bated breath for the first round of offers -- pity they're not until Jan 2009!

In the meantime, I've been keeping busy with work, TAFE and starting out as a Tupperware demonstrator! My friend Donna talked me into trying Tupperware demonstrating and I have my 'Announcement Party' this Saturday - How exciting!! I hope to place lots of orders and get some party datings :)

My TAFE course is linked with my work - I'm studying for a Certificate III in Asset Maintenance (Cleaning Operations) and I hope to learn lots of valuable skills and knowledge that will help me when Im servicing my clients homes and hopefully adapt some of my own cleaning routines!! When I eventually finish my Nursing Degree (by 2020 LOL) the Certificate will also come in handy -- it'll prove that I know how to 'clean stuff' :)

Kaleb has been doing really well since I last updated. His tantrums are lessening, now I have to work on the spitting and his jumping on my couch (GRRR!) I've learnt alot of great techniques from the EI specialist and they have actually worked so I'm extra stoked about it!

My little boy is no longer a 'baby' (I was using his still being in size 2 as my excuse .. they're in the same area as the baby clothes) -- he's graduated to size 3 in tops AND bottoms! We shop in the Big Boys sections of the store now :) His fascination with cars is never-ending but he's added a new obsession to the fold .. Curious George! We got him a DVD a few weeks ago and since then he loves 'Monkey George' LOL Lots of new words are being deciphered and he can almost count to five all by himself! We just have to work on remembering to start at 'One' instead of 'Two' LOL

Nothing much else has happened in our little world over the past few weeks that immediately comes to mind, so here are some pictures for you.

Caught with his cars!

Peek-A-Boo behind the highchair

Trying Mummy's shoes on for size

TFL

Photography Challenge Week 5: Glamorous

2008-09-17T12:09:00.001+10:00

Here's my entry for the Purplescraps Photography Challenge Week 5..

This one I did just for fun:

Photography Challenge Week 4: Blurred

2008-09-17T12:08:00.002+10:00

My entry for the Purplescraps Photography Challenge..

Photography Challenge Week 3: My Reflection

2008-09-02T09:55:00.002+10:00

Here is my entry for Purplescraps Challenge Week 3: Me and my Reflection.

Purplescraps Challenge Week Two: Me and my Shadow

2008-08-26T13:12:00.002+10:00

Here is my entry into the Purplscraps Self-Portrait Challenge for Week Two: Me and my Shadow.

Riding my bike .. pedals and everything!

2008-08-24T20:25:00.001+10:00

Photography Challenge

2008-08-21T13:14:00.003+10:00

On the Purplescraps forum there is a challenge for us to take a photo of ourselves per week for 52 weeks. It's run by the ever-inspiring Emily P and it's been very exciting to participate so far :)

Here is my first weeks' photo 'Creative Me'

I can't wait until next weeks' challenge!

Crikey!

2008-08-16T20:08:00.004+10:00

What an amazing day we've had!

It was our first trip to Australia Zoo and it was everything we thought it would be and then some :)

We were there for five and a half hours altogether and it really didn't feel long enough -- we got to see some amazing animals .. Kaleb pet a Koala Bear and roughed up a Kangaroo for good measure!

The zoo is set out over approximately 7hectares and I think I walked almost every step of it :) We saw Otters, Dingo's, Komodo Dragons, Alligators, Crocodiles, Elephants, Lemurs, Koala Bears, Birds, Snakes, Wombats, Kangaroos ... the list is endless!

Here are some pictures of our day -

Getting ready to feed an elephant

A sleepy Koala Bear

Feeding a Kangaroo

A fearsome Crocodile!

I highly recommend taking a trip next time you are in Queensland .. it's well worth it!

Til next time
Stace

Out of the mouths of babes..

2008-07-19T18:11:00.001+10:00

Introducing...

2008-07-12T12:31:00.003+10:00

Miss Alahni Joan!

Kaleb met his newest cousin last weekend and surprisingly was oh-so-gentle with her .. very cute! He would float about wherever she was, pointing and giggling "It's a bubby, nice bubby, nice bubby.. Alahni!" What a little gentleman he was :)

Things have been pretty much flat-chat since I last updated. Work is still the same, home is the same, although busier during the weekends now as Kaleb and I are either out visiting Nanny and Poppy, shopping, cooking or cuddling and chasing each other around the yard hehe It's been great, slowing down and taking time out in a stress-free environment, just Kaleb and I... ahh... bliss!

Despite the weather being chillier, the sun still shines through the clouds and gives us a bit of warmth, for which Im eternally greatful :) There's nothing worse than no sun (or little sun) and chilly, icy winds ... it's why we left Tasmania! It's still cool on the breath in the morning but thankfully by the early afternoon things have defrosted enough for us to enjoy what's left of the day.

My mission last week was to beat the lines at the department stores and layby Kaleb's Christmas presents with the 6month layby offers they have at this time of the year... it was absolute madness!! I was there in the mid-afternoon when it was relatively quiet but a workmate had braved the early hours to make it to the stores for morning opening and was standing in line for over 2hours!! Thankfully I have no more shopping to do for Christmas until December when I'll be picking out some things for the rest of the family *phew*

Picture Gallery for the month:

Say Cheese!

It's my turn now.

Aunty Demii and I playing tigers ... Grrr!

Cleaning my car .. Kerchow McQueen!

I love reading my stories!

Thanks for reading
Stacie :)

You're watching me!!

2008-06-27T21:13:00.003+10:00

Now, seeing as how you've all been bugging me to update again, here it is :)

It's been a few weeks since my last update and things are going really well. Life is on the up and up - we couldn't be happier! Well, actually, things COULD be better but nothing is perfect .. our lives are as close to perfect as they need to be and that suits me fine :)

Kaleb and I have been spending some great quality time in the home lately, the cooler weather makes indoors seem that much more appealing! We've been baking up a storm with bread, muffins, slices, biscuits and we have plans to cook our first side of corned silverside tomorrow ....... I'll let you know how it goes!

Kaleb's daycarer has had a few challenges with Kaleb becoming a little more stubborn that he normally is hehe It was unfortunately due to some rather innocent-looking tubs of fruit puree that contained just enough concentrations of preservatives and additives to tip Kaleb over into hyperactivity which never bodes well!! We solved the mystery of his behavioural shift however, and although the list of what I can put in his lunchbox is infinately smaller than before, at least we know what he can and can't tolerate. Otherwise he is happy and healthy, giving me LOADS of "kissy's" -- I love it! He'll kiss the back of his own hand if my face isn't nearby ... completely adorable!

Work is going as well as can expected .. I mean, come on! It's work! I still enjoy the enquiries we get, I only wish there were more of them so I can get some mental stimulation and not spend most of the day sitting at my desk staring off in to space hehe.

Kaleb's vocab has increased TOO much for my liking since I last blogged!!! Now when we sit in traffic, or in a drive-through, anywhere really, he shouts at the top of his lungs "Come ON!!" It would be funny if it wasn't so embarrassing!! We still love to spend chat-time in the morning traffic on the way to our daycarer's house and as always, I look forward to picking him up in the afternoon .. Im always guaranteed a huge smile, a run-to-me-engulf-me-in-his-arms cuddle and lots of excited "Mummy's here! Mummy's here!" He's tucked up in bed as we speak and I've already made more than enough trips to his room to peek in on him :)

As always, some pictures of our adventures..

Do you like my new hat?

Come on, it's funny!! Laugh with me!!

How cute is this face?

TFL

Splish Splash

2008-06-02T20:10:00.005+10:00

Hi bloggers!

Im happy and not-so-happy to say that the winter weather has finally made its' way to Queensland. It is lovely to have a reprieve from the continuous hot weather that we've been having but really! Raining for 3 days straight isn't my idea of fun :)

I've been off work unfortunately for last week due to bronchitis - the Drs firstly passed it off as a head cold, then as a chest infection, then finally diagnosed bronchitis but I was sent for a chest x-ray to make sure I hadn't contracted pneumonia! How scary! Thank goodness the results came back clear or I would have been housebound for longer than a week!

Big news in my household lately is that Kaleb has started toilet training! We got him a cute Roger Armstrong potty shaped like a turtle and he loves to sit on it while he watches TV in the evenings LOL No number 1's or 2's IN the potty yet, but there have been lots of water bottles up-ended in the potty and passed off as No 1's LOL Cheeky little man!

We're going for our yearly portrait session in the next coming weeks too - hopefully we can get some great shots to share with you all :)

There isn't anything else of interest that I can share with you at the moment so here are some photos of our recent photoshoots:

Mr Potty

Do you like my muscles?

Mr Squiggle

TFL

It's an 80's Revival!!

2008-05-18T13:28:00.005+10:00

Well howdy Blog-fans!

Much excitement around here this weekend. We've been listening to sounds of the 80's thanks to a Video Hits 80's Music Marathon - the ENTIRE weekend!! Many thanks to Fuzzy and Dan for paying tribute to the greats :)

Kaleb and I have also been out and about quite considerably this weekend. I am trying on a new exercise regime and so far it's working - we took a lovely long stroll yesterday and today. This morning was a little different as I wanted to take Kaleb by the park as well but it is being renovated so there wasn't much access. Fine by me, as I think that particular park is too big and hilly for us anyway so I'm on the lookout for another smaller, more level-ground play area!

Work is going great also - I had my first review last week and am travelling fantastically on all accounts. My 'Clerical' and AHT are well below the team average and within the minimum/maximum parameters for the entire centre so that's great to know ;) My competitive streak is satisfied for now hehehe.

Mother's Day was a fabulous day down at Settlement Cove at Redcliffe. We got there early enough to secure ourselves a gazebo, setup and relaxed for the whole day. There were great toddler pools and an adult lagoon-style setup as well as fantastic swings and play equipment for the young ones. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!

The countdown is on for my sister's DDay (Delivery Day for those of you who don't know).. my niece is due on the 29th so thats ... what is that ... it's officially 11 days away!!

I am also pleased to say that Kaleb's lovely Aunty Em has found our blog and has chatted with me on a few occasions.. I'm still waiting for that elusive phonecall but I understand :) Em's a busy lady!

As always, our picture gallery:

Fabulous flowers found on our walk..

Kaleb loves putting our money in the moneybox..

Mothers Day play at Settlement Cove..

TFL
Stace

2008-05-04T19:34:00.005+10:00

Well well well, it HAS been awhile since I last updated!

Life has just been so busy and exciting and full of adventures that I really haven't been able to update until now LOL

Today we went to the Park where Kaleb thoroughly enjoyed feeding the ducks. He was a little alarmed when they came TOO close for his liking but with his own brand of special revenge (chasing the ducks all over the park!) Kaleb stamped his authority as "Lord of the Land".

There were lots of children for Kaleb to play with during our time at the park, although Kaleb prefered to chase after the older kids than the little ones his own age. After much running and chasing and skipping and jumping, Kaleb and I made our way home where he flaked out for just over 2hrs. Bliss! Mummy got to relax a little and recharge her batteries.

Catch me if you can! Kaleb at the duck pond

Taking in the view

Later this afternoon we did a bit of baking. It was great fun - Kaleb loved holding the spoon and stirring the mixture and he was very helpful in cleaning the beaters off for me LOL

Such a busy day and it only gets worse tomorrow LOL

Gigglepot

2008-04-21T20:21:00.001+10:00

Easter Antics

2008-03-25T19:35:00.004+11:00

Well it's that time of the year again .. chocolate, chocolate, and MORE chocolate!

Easter Friday saw us on the road to the Gold Coast in order to spend time with Kaleb's Nanny, Poppy, Aunty Demii and Uncle Jaiden. Kaleb's Aunty Nat from Sydney came up for the occasion too and he was really excited and happy to see her!

We started Easter Sunday by snuggling up in bed for a few cuddles then waited patiently for everyone to join us in the Family Room. Kaleb was given a pair of new Bob the Builder pj's, a Hot Wheels car/egg gift set and a milk carton of Humpty Dumpty eggs. He really enjoyed unwrapping his (and everyone else's!!) eggs!

Kaleb in his Easter PJ's enjoying an Easter Egg...

Gorgeous Bunny-Eared Boy!

Ice-cream all round on our Easter Sunday picnic...

Our picnic was at Cleveland Point, a wonderful outcrop near the departure point to Stradbroke Island.. lots of grass, sand and play equipment with a fantastic fish and chips store. Kaleb couldn't wait to tuck into his ice-cream, he really loves ice-cream.

I hope you all enjoyed your Easter break as much as we did!

Kaleb - 25 months.

2008-03-21T13:32:00.006+11:00

For starters, we've settled into our new home quite well - it's been a month since we moved and things couldn't be better! I started work for the Brisbane City Council in their Customer Service Centre - I'm a Public Servant now LOL

Kaleb has been in Family DayCare during that time and I'm happy to say, despite some setbacks, that he's doing fantastically well and settling into the new care environment in record time! He is with a lovely Fillipino woman named Elsie who adores him. She looks after a brother and sister aswell as Kaleb gets on with them like he would his own brother and sister!

He is getting to be such a big boy now -- still tall and skinny, like his grandfather, but still holding onto those chubby thighs that I love so much. He is due for a ECHN in the coming few weeks so we will then officially know how tall/heavy he is. My guess would be 15kgs and 92cms. Time will tell if I'm right!

His language skills are improving every day and I can now understand the vast majority of what he says. His latest obsessive phrase is "What is that?" and "Quick!".. he especially likes to use "Quick!" when we're sitting in afternoon traffic on the way home.

He's been sleeping in his toddler bed for the entire month and on only one occasion has he tried to get out.. I think it had more to do with a nightmare he was having than for reasons of escapism just for the sake of it.

Kaleb loves to sit on the stairs

I love my 'Cars' chair Mummy

Relaxing in the sunshine

Sunday at the park

Swingin' Around

Home Sweet Home

2008-03-10T16:31:00.001+11:00

Happy Birthday Kaleb

2008-03-03T22:52:00.003+11:00

Time for the birthday update!

Kaleb's birthday was on Sunday, February 24th. It was a fantastic day, apart from my catching a stomach bug and missing most of it :( Kaleb had all his family around -- no birthday party as I was in the midst of moving from the Gold Coast to Brisbane.

The cake was decorated with a Wiggles cake-topper and Kaleb enjoyed every bite of it.

He was sent lots and lots of lovely presents but his best gift was his Aunt Janelle coming up from Tasmania to celebrate with him .. she is currently 6mths pregnant with his little girl cousin. He loved to sit on the couch poking her tummy and laughing! His nanna and poppy gave him a brand new bike and a trip to the hairdressers.. Mummy bought him (again) way too many gifts .. he now has a Dress Me Elmo, Shapes truck, Fisher Price Pirate Ship, matchbox cars, a Winnie the Pooh toddler bed with Pooh Bear throw rug, Fisher Price dump truck and more clothes than I care to mention LOL

His first night in the toddler bed was our first night at the new house and he fell asleep immediately and remained there for the entire night! I fully expected him to wake up and try a Houdini but it wasnt the case at all .. he really love his bed -- Ive even had to wake him up once or twice he sleeps that deeply in it :)

I have some photos from the past few weeks to share with you:

Unwrapping the presents

My new bike!

Birthday Cake time

Kaleb loves chocolate cake

Mowing the lawn in our new yard

TFL

Smooth Sailing from here ..

2008-02-23T08:59:00.002+11:00

Well I did it!!

Im moving out!!

Im so excited and I cant believe that its all fallen into place so quickly and easily. I got a new job offer last week, then 2 inspections later I secured myself a property in a great area close to the trainline (for CBD training) and its in relative close proximity to the other site where I'll be working. I've also found a great Family DayCarer closeby aswell so its just amazing!

I have to confess that I'm still waiting for the penny to drop but Im trying hard to keep my thoughts positive and to enjoy life in the moment :)

Kaleb's birthday is tomorrow and I have all his presents wrapped and ready to go.. I only hope he likes what I selected! Photos will be posted tomorrow afternoon hopefully after the big day.

I still have to bake his cake but I think maybe this year I'll stick with something simple. I went all out last year and it was great but I have so much to organize with this move that I have to concentrate the bulk of my attention on that aspect at the moment.

Here are some pictures of our adventures this month:

Kaleb loves to skim his cars across the tiled flooring

Giggling after taking a tumble off the bike

Countdown to a little boy's birthday ..

2008-02-02T16:52:00.000+11:00

Here's a ticker to help me count the days until my little sweetheart turns 2.. why not count along with me!!

It's not long now and I have mixed feelings about his birthday this year. On one hand, I'm so proud that he's made it this far and that he is such a clever, affectionate and well-adjusted child. At the same token, I'm mourning the loss of my baby whilst celebrating the 'birth' of my toddler..

There are lots of plans in the works for his party - its going to be held at a picnic site near our home and all our little friends are coming to help us mark the occasion. Kaleb will be sending photos to his father, aunty, uncle, cousins and great-grandparents in Tasmania and his other aunty in NSW who aren't able to be here with us on the day.

A New Year ..

2008-01-23T00:15:00.000+11:00

Let me begin this months post by saying Happy New Year!!

I hope your NYE's went smoothly with no hangovers to ruin the first day of 2008 LOL

I've been so busy since Christmas I haven't had much of a chance to regroup and share any news with you all.. work is going fine for the moment -- there are some plans in the works but nothing has come to fruition yet and so to protect myself from any jinx I will be saying NOTHING until I know for certain! I got caught out last time with sharing news that unfortunately never eventuated LOL

Kaleb is doing superbly well as usual - he is about to be moved up into the next room at daycare which is a triumph in itself because he is considered developmentally ready almost 2 months early! My son the genius :)

What can I say? He has his father's looks and his mother's intelligence!

We've been out and about quite abit since last year -- there have been two weekend trips to Brisbane's Bayside area to a quaint little park by the water.. they have a small enclosed inlet like a man-made beach and Kaleb thoroughly enjoyed splashing about and literally COVERING himself with sand! Im sure it made for an interesting sensation for him on the car-ride home!

I have absolutely NO PLANS for this weekend .. I am taking steps to relax as much as parentally possible. There may be some shopping for Kaleb's birthday presents (countdown is on ... 34 days to go!) but otherwise its hopefully smooth sailing.

Monthly pictures for your viewing pleasure:

Kaleb at his favourite park in Broadbeach

Kaleb playing happily on the pontoon in the canal backing onto our home.

TFL

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells.. Christmas time is here!

2007-12-26T20:44:00.001+11:00

Christmas time has been and gone and what a day it was. Kaleb had the best day, showered with presents and cuddles and was a very good boy posing for all his photos for mummy!

He even unwrapped his presents all by himself .. it was so cute - he left everyone else's gifts alone and that was quite surprising considering normally he's into anything and everything!

He was given so many lovely new toys from mummy and nanna and poppy, aunties and uncle that I have to re-arrange his toy shelf to make room for the new arrivals..

If you want to see him in action - here are some pictures from our day...

Our Christmas Tree

Very excited and happy to receive Bob the Builder

Getting ready to tear into his presents

Carefully unwrapping the first gift

All in all it was a fantastic day and I'm so glad to be sharing it with all of you.

TFL
Stace

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas ...

2007-12-24T11:50:00.000+11:00

Christmas is just around the corner so I thought I would upload a slideshow..
I call it "Christmas with Kaleb - 2007"

In it you can see the result of a scratchy Santa hat, coupled with a boisterous little boy, a cute Christmas T-Shirt and a snap-happy mummy!!

***The picture quality isn't the best I know. My camera is being repaired as we speak and I am working from my phone for the moment until a replacement camera is sent to me***

There's not much to report at the moment .. work has been great since we started on the phones - I've been quite surprised at the number of sales I've made as I'm not even trying yet LOL. The annual Christmas Party was yesterday but as I was completely shopped out I took the opportunity to rest up at home and prepare myself for the upcoming festive onslaught.

My younger sister from Sydney is staying here with us for the week so I won't be lonesome when my family travel to Tasmania to visit everyone.. Kaleb remembers his Aunty Natalie but at the moment is a little shy around her! He spent this morning curled around my legs while she tried to make conversation LOL

Kaleb's DayCare report cards came home with me last week and they all make mention of how much he's developed in the last few months. It makes me so proud to read them!! His fine and gross motor skills are "excellent" and he simply adores arts&craft (taking after his mummy perhaps?), mix&mess time and playing in the sandpit with his friends. His vocabulary is increasing every day and he can now say "Whats that Mummy?", "Poos!" and my favourite .. "Whats this for?" LOL

To everyone who has followed my blog posts since the beginning, and to all my new friends that have since joined - thankyou for your support and kind comments. To my family in Tasmania .. thanks for checking in as often as you do! *Big waves to Rudy, Donna and the Boys and also to Janelle, Shane and Baby-to-be*

Have a safe and VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS everyone!!

Fast times at Main Beach

2007-12-09T22:07:00.000+11:00

Well obviously, as this post title suggests *insert audience laughter* there were some good times had by all at Main Beach last night!!!

A few of my workmates and I were invited to a small get-together at a colleagues apartment.. I was honestly a little apprehensive but I needed to let my hair down so I gathered what courage I had and went and had a GREAT time. There were only a few of us in the end but it was nice to be able to sit down with a drink, awesome scenery and good conversation :)

Unfortunately for me this morning saw me a little worse for wear - I was more than slightly hungover but Kaleb was kind to me thank goodness. We decided in the early morning to visit the IKEA store. What a great idea because I happily wandered around for over 3hrs making a list, checking it twice LOL You get the idea!

Kaleb - once again - is coming along in leaps and bounds .. he still has to learn patience at meal times and I would dearly love for him to stop throwing toys at the floor and in particular ME but small steps .... NOW - as for the subject of the photo Ive uploaded :)

Kaleb and I were having a great time during dinner a week or so ago - he really loves spaghetti .. so much so that he now won't let me help him! He was in the middle of dinner when I bought out the camera and this classic pose was a result of our 'spaghetti shoot' LOL .. its not often that I capture this side of his personality on film so Im proud as punch that I got this particular shot.

Isn't he just gorgeous??!!??

TFL
Stacie

Kaleb at Smileez Playland in Ashmore

2007-11-25T16:33:00.001+11:00

Rain, Rain Go Away...

2007-11-24T23:28:00.000+11:00

OMG is it REALLY raining in perenially sunny QLD I hear you say? Well its true! Its raining and has been on/off for the past day .. from all weather forecast reports we're to expect droplets from the heavens for the next week *aarrgghhh*

Whats a girl to do?? LOL

Work-wise things are going along nicely .. we've lost 2 trainees due to reasons of some form or another but Im still there and thats what counts right? Its coming up Week 5 which means .. drumroll please .. only 2 weeks til final exams!! I dont want to freak myself out because thats just going to psych me up and thats not good!! Kind of reminiscent of what is heretofore referred to as 'The Red Bull Incident' .. it doesnt take much thought to figure out what happened there!! :)

Kaleb has been doing SO WELL lately and Im pleased and proud as punch to report that his vocabulary has increased enormously since his last checkup almost 3mths ago with the ECHN. My favourites are 'outside' 'dog-dog' 'stop it' 'more milk' 'uh-oh' and 'NO!' LOL My little boy is coming along in leaps and bounds!

Its more than completely amazing to think back to almost 2years ago when he was still safe in my womb, not a care in the world .. now he's still safe but in mummys arms, and more than a passing concern for keeping dirt and food off his palms and fingers LOL

No pictures this post sorry! I havent uploaded any recent ones .. I am chuffing to the Print Shop tomorrow so will remind myself to come back and leave a few jpgs :)

TFL
Stace

And the beat goes on ...

2007-11-16T23:04:00.000+11:00

Oh my god it's late!! I have too much energy to sleep so here I am ... another update!

Im much better this week, thanks for asking :) The laryngitis I had since last Thursday has finally cleared up so Im back to my normal chatty self LOL Work wasnt the same without my nattering!

Kaleb has been an absolute GEM these last couple of days - throwing his cars at every god-given opportunity (OUCH!!), nipping me whenever his gums start to itch (MORE teeth I hear you say?!?!)and generally sleeping through like a champ :)

I have a few babies' birthday parties to go to this month, not to mention Kalebs DayCare Christmas Party!! I have almost picked up his Christmas Layby's and there is SO much wrapping Im gonna have to do ... then there's picking out something for all the other members of my family. I must admit, I did well this year- seeing as how Kaleb's birthday and Christmas are rather close together, I figured I can use the mid-year Toy Sales to get gifts for both occasions!!!

Hey .. a girl has to shop when she gets the chance right?!? LOL

Here's a random picture I found on the desktop LOL It's of Kaleb with his Aunty Demii's BF Ashleigh - don't they look like a cute couple!!!!

TFL

Weekend update..

2007-11-10T15:38:00.000+11:00

Well its the weekend .. the sun is shining .. the humidity is low and Im cashed up and ready to go LOL

Ive been pretty flatchat with work and juggling childcare (I have a real paranoia about NOT letting Kaleb become the 'last child at daycare' LOL) but so far its going well. I enjoy my new role immensely and have made some great friends from my training team - the excellent part is that when we all go onto the floor, we're a team in our own right so that means no separating us!!

Ive so far learned all about mobiles and the general business practices of Telstra so my brain is packed to the brim!! We're what you call a 'Pinnacle Centre' so my job includes all aspects of customer service regarding internet, Foxtel, fixed lines and mobiles - that means LOTS of information getting crammed into my cranium!! Its a great test of my listening and retention skills to say the least LOL

The best perk I have to say (so far) is that we get a choice of handsets on a subsidised mobile plan .. I visited the Telstra Shop just this morning to pick up my brand new schmick Nokia 6120- its white and chrome so looks oh so James Bond!! It has all the features I need and even some I dont need! The teething issues are minimal (Im using my Vodafone SIM until Im off contract in 18mths so that means Im having no luck accessing the internet!) but its no skin off my nose .. its such a great deal!

Kaleb is experiencing no end of pains with the remainder of his teeth coming in all at once it seems ... it doesnt interrupt his night sleeps so Im happy for the moment on that front! His appetite is absolutely ferocious and I find myself constantly hanging out in the kitchen making up sandwiches, soups and vegetable combos for him. His favourite meat is chicken and its just so cute watching him swish his fork around the bowl to spear the chicken first!

I dont have any new pictures that I can upload for you this week ... instead - Ill give you a sneek peek at my new phone!! Its a snapshot of it from the Nokia website so you have to remember that mine is actually white and chrome OK?! LOL

Thanks for reading and come back for more next week!

The delicate intricacies of life ..

2007-10-27T06:43:00.000+10:00

Hi one and all...
I'll try not to make this too long a post - there's not much to say at this stage anyway!!

I had the AWA signing at Telstra on Tuesday and they gave us a MOUNTAIN of paperwork to fill out!! I have to rollover all my superfunds into their Telstra Super but do you think I can remember my fund details or even the super funds that my money is squirrelled away in?? NO! LOL Ill just have to wait until I get my statements..

Big news is that I've moved up a rung or two on the relationship evolution ladder!!! I am now officially a singleton again but the difference this time is that I'm not a complete wreck over it! Normally I'd be distraught and trying to figure out what Id done wrong, why didnt it work, was he cheating on me, why can't I find a 'keeper' etc etc LOL I wasnt like that this time and it feels so great to be completely free of self-doubt when a relationship ends! I have come a long way and it's been in part due to my great support network here (family and friends) and my reading this great little book called 'The Secret' - you should head to your local bookshop and get a copy.. it's completely inspirational and it really hits you where it counts.

Life is what you make it and I am now making a conscious effort to create a harmonious, loving and self-secure life for DS and I.

Sounds hokey doesnt it LOL :)

I'm also moving out on my own in the coming weeks and it's really exciting! Long overdue but exciting all the same! There aren't many properties that suit my needs (I want a backyard so that DS can play and I can have somewhere to sunbake!) but the ones that are around are so lovely!! I hope the application process doesn't take too long and that I don't have too much competition LOL ... My family are still going to be close by -- in the same general vicinity that I am moving to -- so if and when DS misses his 'people' it will only be a short drive to visit them.

What else? I don't think there's much else to say other than if you get a chance - head on over to facebook and check me out .. I don't know if this link will work but here goes

FACEBOOK PROFILE

Here are some pics - think of it as a 'then' and 'now' montage LOL
Til next time (and TFL)
Stace

Gossip Gossip and MORE Gossip!

2007-10-15T16:04:00.000+10:00

Well ... its just a quick one today!! I got the full-time job I was dreaming of!!!

It's working for Telstra in their 'pinnacle centre' and I start on October 29 :)

I cant wait!

Things on the man front have cooled somewhat but I haven't called it a day just yet ... let's give it a week to see how things go ... THEN I can digress into melodramatic feminism and swear off men AGAIN *roll eyes*

At least I'm comfortable enough NOT to call first - - Im over doing all the chasing!

Once more with feeling ...

2007-09-26T20:08:00.000+10:00

Things are G-R-E-A-T!!

I can't believe that dbf and I have been an item for almost 2 months!! We're still catching up regularly and having an excellent time ... Ive cooked him a meal and he's met my family (who by the way .. LOVE him! Kaleb included LOL). He's actually taking me out for my birthday on Saturday (we might be going to Dracula's) and I cant wait!!

Here's another picture of Kaleb - its with his cousin Jacob :) Our cousins are up here staying with us on the Sunny Gold Coast for about 2 weeks and Kaleb is stoked to have a playmate his own age at home!

Take a peek at the pair of them LOL ...

Finally .... the video clip!!

2007-09-26T19:57:00.000+10:00

As promised .. albeit months ago LOL .. the videoclip of Kaleb feeding himself!

A LOT has happened since last time ...

2007-09-11T20:11:00.000+10:00

I have SO much news its amazing!! I don't know where to start so I think I'd better just stick to the basics .. makes it easier to read and understand LOL

Firstly - working for outbound telesales company on Telstra campaigns for the last month but have been looking for something full-time (only working part time at the moment and loving it but need more money in the bank!) and I have discovered tonight that I made it to the ABSOLUTE last stage of reference checking for a position with Centrelink!! The pay is astronomical and I HOPE HOPE HOPE that I get the job because I so deserve some happy working conditions!

Secondly - Kaleb is getting his bottom double teeth and for the past month or so (I cant really remember how long because Im so sleep-deprived!) he's been waking and screaming and refusing to settle so Ive had to take him up to my bed .. where I promptly get punched and kicked and hair-pulled like there's no tomorrow! He's running everywhere and LOVES to play tickles, ride his bike outside and play with the basketball LOL).. he has some new words like 'up-a-day' and 'no' and some variations of 'yes' 'hello' and my favourite 'bubby-bubby-bubby!' .. he's so clever it's unreal!!

Thirdly - I've met someone!!!!!!!! His name is Terry and he's from the UK *swoon* LOL I met him at a nightclub in Surfers Paradise back in August and we exchanged numbers and have been somewhat of an item ever since :) We've been out to the comedy club at Jupiters Casino, for a ride on his motorbike, out for bowling and beer and we've recently celebrated his birthday by way of a great (and cheap!) Taiwanese meal with his friends and then out to our favourite bar for a few drinks and games of pool. He's already met and been charmed by Kaleb so there are MAJOR brownie points scored!! I, for some unknown reason, had him over for dinner on Sunday and so he's now met The Munsters aka my family and seems to like them so I guess that means he's a keeper! For as long as he puts up with me LOL

I do have a great little video of Kaleb that I want to share but I don't have the USB on hand and so you'll just have to wait!!!

New day, a new dollar

2007-08-08T20:41:00.000+10:00

Who would've thought I'd actually manage to get online and post again so soon huh??

Things have been slightly more up and down this week than I would've liked .. such as giving my notice on Friday, turning up to work on Monday and being told "We don't need you to come in anymore" ... like WTF? They couldn't have called me beforehand?? It's just another shining example of how underhanded, sneaky and petulant this particular company is ... but let's not get into a slinging match!

My new job started today and so far I like it just fine! It's outbound, which is DEFINATELY something I've never tried before .. I only started training today and already I've taken some calls!! Just jump in head first I say LOL .. I've already notched up 2 sales under my belt and that just serves to spur on my competitiveness!! They don't know what they've done *bwah ha ha!!!*

Kaleb is growing like a weed LOL Nothing miraculous to report but he is getting taller, eating more variety, babbling more, trying to speak and generally hugging and 'smooching' his Mummy to death on a daily basis!! I LOVE IT!!

I did go and visit my gf from an online parents forum on Saturday and Im so glad I made the effort to go :) It was fantastic! There were mums I'd wanted to meet IRL since FOREVER and the baby girls were just putty in Kaleb's hands LOL .. I'm meeting some more online mums on Friday when we go out to Surfers Paradise for some drinkies so that will certainly be an experience!

It's time for another change. .

2007-08-03T22:10:00.000+10:00

It's that time of the year again .. the time that I make yet another career change!

It's getting to be somewhat ridiculous I know, but this time I am determined to make a real go of it and stick it out for longer than 20seconds! Of course, the fact that it pays 25% more per hour than previous position really helps .. I will be working 1hour per day less admittedly in the first few months but I think there is a chance for me to move to a 6hr day later on down the track - not that I want a 6hr day when I plan to study next year but you get the general gist of it right???

I am also looking into moving into my very own apartment at the end of the year .. a somewhat daunting thought since I've had the support and assistance of my family around me for almost 18months but I did it before I was a mum, I can do it when I AM a mum LOL :)

The house has been filling with visitors the last few weeks, what with my grandfather making a trip up from Tasmania for just over 3weeks, then my sister from Tasmania also came for a few days, NOW my other sister from Sydney has come to play LOL It's been quite an interesting experience to say the least!

My scrapbooking has taken off again which is great .. it means that I can use up some of my ever-growing stash of supplies!! I've scrapped 7 layouts in the last week which is quite an achievement for me!

Not much else to natter about until I start my new job - that, I think, will give me plenty to talk about!!!

I have also managed to find a picture of Kaleb so enjoy!

I'm so excited ... and I just can't hide it!!

2007-07-16T20:07:00.000+10:00

As the title of this week's post suggests ... IM EXCITED **channels Big Kev LOL**

I mentioned a few weeks ago that I was heading to Griffith University to check out their Open Day, get some information on a course I plan on doing, etc. etc.

I spent just about the ENTIRE day at the Uni, chatting with the staff, students and counsellors, checking out the lecture theatres, the 'prac' rooms etc :) It was all VERY exciting! Best of all, after reading through the QTAC guide (QTAC is the centre that all tertiary applications are facilitated through in QLD) it seems that my Bachelor of Nursing is well within my grasp!

I will be applying as a Mature-Aged student (which makes me giggle because for some reason the term conjures up images of old people!) so that means that I can use my previous school results to qualify for entry PLUS there's a great little thing called the STAT test (stands for Special Tertiary Admissions Test) that I can take aswell ..... thank the Lord that it's multiple choice LOL

On the home front, things are a little yukky :( Kaleb has managed to contract a small case of gastro-enteritis and spent the majority of last night vomitting .. my heart broke as I stood there with the towel to catch his 'yukkies' while he choked and cried :( Thank goodness he was a tad better today - still congested with this industrial-strength chest infection, little bot-bot working overtime to rid his system of the bugs .. I've really been working overtime to get us both well and back to fighting shape!

Now don't fall out of your chair in surprise or anything at this LOL ... BUT .... I managed to get some scrapping done, PLUS I have a picture from our weekend adventures at Burleigh Heads to download for your viewing pleasure :) I HAVE been a busy beaver haven't I?

Ciao bella!!

What a start to the week!

2007-07-10T08:48:00.000+10:00

Well ... as the title indicates, what a start to the week it's been!

I'm STILL getting over this horrid chest infection that saw me take 3 days off work to recover - Kaleb is feeling much better after his 2nd seizure last Friday (which once again scared the pants off me!). The preliminary diagnosis is that he is unfortunately one of those kiddies who fits when they get a high temperature caused by a viral infection. I'm now more vigilant than ever when it comes to him staying healthy and well :)

I haven't had much time to scrap over these past few weeks .. I've completed a LO here and there but nothing to write home about IMHO! Maybe a trip to the stores will rekindle my passion LOL

My study goals are still exactly that - goals. Im going to the Griffith Uni Open Day this Sunday to check it all out .. ask some questions, hopefully get some answers! It starts at 9am and finishes at 2pm so Im sure Ill have plenty of time to get to the Admin block to chat with the careers counsellors, get information on the fees structure and financial assistance aspects of Uni Life THEN dash down to the Health Building to get as much paper as I can carry on Nursing Degrees and the like! Its all rather exciting don't you think??

It's also early EARLY days yet, as I haven't even SPOKEN to him in person yet - but there may be someone special on the horizon ..... an email expressing mutual admiration has been exchanged so I'm happy for now to sit back, relax and wait to see where life takes me on this one LOL

I'll upload a pic or two of Kaleb later tonight - - I have to hightail it down to the Medicare Office today .. dear darling Centrelink have messed up my CCB again because I didnt take written proof of his immunisation record to their offices GRRRR Well when they tell me it's sufficient to notify them over the phone WHY would I go to their office and wait up to an hour in a queue????? I tell ya, they just make things so hard!!

Next update will be on schedule - Next Monday!!!

Another one bites the dust LOL

2007-06-24T16:28:00.000+10:00

Once again Ive been a slack jack and havent posted as often as Id promised ... how ever do you put up with it? LOL

Good news to begin with - Ive gotten another job .. its closer to home, the hours are MUCH better and the industry is more interesting LOL The pay starts off slightly lower but after the probationary period then it goes up and in the meantime, I can make do with what Ill be earning while I prove myself!!

Things on the man front are looking up also - I went out for a coffee date on Saturday and had a great time ... nerves were an ever-present element of course LOL All in all, I hope we can catch up again although Im at the stage where I wont hold out hope because things are never certain ..

Hopefully I will also be starting study in the coming year .. Ive decided to try and fulfil my lifelong dream of becoming a nurse - Ive made a few enquiries and if I do it, Id be going to Griffith Uni PT .. will have to email the department and ask what the class times are - no point in getting excited over it if the lectures I HAVE to attend are in the afternoon ........ work would then get in the way :(:(

Kaleb - my little prince, my shining star - is doing VERY WELL lately ... he has a cold at the moment but with the weather lately its no surprise. He now sleeps all night long and even sleeps in on the odd occasion!! Very surprising for me when I wake before he does! He walks perfectly and is now running and chasing anything and everything .. his fingers are always grabbing at things - - Im not sure ive mentioned that he's a very 'busy' boy? LOL A recent development is that Kaleb has become quite adept at feeding himself his dinner with minimal fuss and surprisingly minimal mess LOL ... his favourite is pasta - obviously its easy for him to handle; noodles rate high on his list as do vege combos and chips ...he LOVES chips!!

Thats all I came to say so Im off again and hopefully will have some interesting news next time from my days at work for the new company!

Talk to you then ;)

Its been a long time coming ...

2007-06-08T15:07:00.000+10:00

Well hi there!

I realise that I haven't posted in quite some time so Im smacking my hand as we speak for being so slack LOL

Things have been so busy around here ... its mad! I had just over 2 weeks to explore my surroundings before landing myself a job (part-time mind you) so ever since then Ive been the early night Queen! Tends to happen when you start your day at 730am! Kaleb has settled nicely into care and its such a blessing for me that theyre so close to work! Work being close to home also isn't too shabby an effort if I do say so myself LOL

We've been out and about since my starting work aswell mind you - we've been up to the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Burleigh Heads, Dreamworld, there's a trip to Movieworld on Sunday, plus more trips to Pacific Fair than I care to mention ....... did I tell you I love to shop?? :)

I think Im even starting to get a slight tan .. which is amazing considering I have lilly-white skin! Its a Tasmanian thing I think LOL

On the man front, things are progressing nicely - I have been in contact with some rather interesting characters let me put it that way :) I am however enjoying my singledom - Kaleb and I have a great routine going and I quite like being the one to call all the shots! Thats not to say that I don't see a potential partnership - I think I do .. I just prefer to take my time!!

I hopefully will also (FINALLY) meet some of the gorgeous ladies from the parents forum that I frequent .. Shell, Jen, Ree, Sarah, maybe even Jessie someday? The girls have been my tower of strength the last couple of months and for me to meet them in person and form (what I believe) will be a lasting bond of friendship is something very close to my heart ....... watch this space for pics from our first meeting!

And for my grand finale - let me show you some pictures of our days in QLD!

May Beach Adventures

2007-05-20T15:24:00.001+10:00

The Life of A Gold Coast-er

2007-05-20T08:02:00.001+10:00

Sunny QLD is pretty much fantastic :D

We've been here for just over 2weeks and things are going great .. the weather is hotter than hot but with aircon and ceiling fans things are more bearable lol..

Ive been on many adventures around Surfers, Burleigh Heads, Coomera, Brisvegas CBD .. its been amazing!! Lucky for me the roads are easier to navigate than those in NSW- Ive been on a few drives just me and Kaleb and we havent gotten lost ONCE (shock horror) .. yet lol

Once again - no pictures .. but I have them on my phone ready to upload and I will try to get it done ASAP.

More stories and pictures to come .... stay tuned!

What!? Not another no-picture post!!

2007-04-23T22:18:00.000+10:00

Gosh Ive been so slack lately haven't I?

This will be another post without pictures .. in the rush of the move things have been packed away and i cant seem to find my USB cable *shrugs* Itll turn up somewhere!

Which brings me to the big news .. Im moving to Queensland! I cant wait to get up there and finally meet my ladies: Shelley, Michelle, Jen, Jessi, Stace, Ree, Elle, even Sarah-lee :D

There are so many things going on at the moment my head has hardly stopped spinning!

More news to come ... and it may be quite surprising *wink wink* There seems to be something in the water though ... and with Level 3 restrictions its a wonder LOL

DBF and I have said our goodbyes and I did my best to not fall into a tearful heap .. I waited until I drove out of the parking garage before I shed my tears! The poor man hugged and hugged and HUGGED me and I lost my words! I had nothing to say other than 'talk to you soon' DOH!! Im such a word maestro!!

Also NO scrapbooking completed this week :( Packed everything away so Im simply sitting around, twiddling my thumbs ... well actually, NO IM NOT! Im spending SO MUCH time with Kaleb he's probably getting sick of me! He is SO close to running and I love it! He also knows where to find his tummy and (unfortunately) has figured out that his nose has a hole that his finger fits into perfectly -- EEWWW!! He tries to play with Mummys nose too but thats definately a No-Go-Zone LOL

Which brings me to the end of my post .. its rather late and I dont have much else to report that I care to share at the moment *blows numerous raspberries* I want to get confirmation of things for myself first ... so you can wait!

Til next week -- it may be my last post for awhile .. no internet connection on the road - and no connection in my new home for around a week or more - unless I can piggyback a neighbours signal from my wireless (hmmm ... memo to self: Check out the reception for neighbours internet connection)

See you next time!

Two for the price of one ..

2007-04-16T22:40:00.000+10:00

OMG who wouldve thought I was running behind on my blog posts!!

Want to know why dont you? Well here it is ... quite boring reason actually - I havent had time! Plus I dont have any new piccys uploaded to the computer yet! THATS WHY :)

Work has been kinda crazier than usual over the last few weeks -thank god the bosses have finally hired 3 new staff members to replace those who have left, and to prepare for the loss of more staff (ie. ME LOL)

Then there's DBF and I spending more QT together which means I am spending more time on msn talking to him when we're apart ... its quite sad really, and VERY soppy!

Kaleb of course, is still coming along in leaps and bounds - I could really call him my Superman! He's still walking everywhere but has unfortunately almost mastered the art of running - which means that when he DOES get it down pat, Ill be losing more hair than weight running after his little behind! I love it though, he look so grown up wandering about the house, opening and closing the doors, chasing after the cat, following Mummy to play with her shoes LOL

He's also added some more 'words' to his repertoire - the latest additions are
"ba" (translation: 'ta')
"boooo" (translation: 'boo') - so cute!
"aaaarrrrrrgggghhhh" (translation: various scary noises made when he chases you!)
"ta" (translation: 'please may I have this?')
"ta ta" (LOOSE translation: bye!) - still working on perfecting the sounds on this one..

What a joy it is to also report that my darling angel has now also learned the fine art of the tantrum! He is practising this new talent on a daily basis and is quite competent in laying on his tummy on the floor, lowering his head to his hands and flapping his feet while wailing and screeching! Also fluent in the sitting on bottom, fists clenched, head turned screaming wail AND the back-arching eyes-shut-tight protest!

I cant wait for the days when he throws a tanty in the supermarket or department store ... that will be the day I send him to Siberia -- just kidding!

Now, as mentioned above - there are no pictures this week (sorry!) I will endeavour to upload at least 3 in time for next weeks installment - deal?

Good!
Until next time :D

Slack and even more slack ... confessions

2007-03-30T22:04:00.000+10:00

Howdy everyone :)

Not much to say this week. Well, there's HEAPS but not much that can be covered in a post that doesnt end up the size of Manhattan!

Kaleb is doing so well since he started walking 2 weeks ago - he is walking everywhere now and ONLY crawls when he wants to get somewhere fast lol .... like chasing after the cat or running to mummy when she picks him up from daycare!

Work is an absolute MADHOUSE at the moment - its a real drain actually. There just arent enough hours in the day to get things done and to top it off, the new warehouse packing system that was SUPPOSED to be making things easier and more efficient has in actual fact, made it harder because it had a software conflict with our order system! Im going in tomorrow for 4hours to help get the 3500 plus orders out that didnt make it through the minefield ..... grrrrrrr - Just when I wanted to get some QT with Kaleb!

DBF and I are still going strong - there are some developments that may affect us though so I won't say anything too much yet.

As always, a Kaleb pic for perusal :D

Have a great weekend!

Kaleb is Walking!

2007-03-22T17:00:00.001+11:00

Guess Whos Walking Now!!!

2007-03-21T16:43:00.000+11:00

How strange to be typing this!!

I thought it would be at least another month or so before I could proudly announce to the world that Kaleb is walking!!

He's been standing unaided for over a month now and then, all of a sudden, he walked 6 or so steps towards me last Tuesday :D

Ever since then, he takes every spare moment to practice his 'steps' lol. Its very cute when he DOES start taking those tentative steps for the simple fact that he still seems way too small in my eyes to be walking anywhere!

I guess sooner rather than later I'll be chasing after him as he gets into all kinds of new mischief *giggle* Im actually looking forward to this latest step towards autonomy .. it means that my baby is becoming a real little boy and I couldnt be happier!

I have video footage but I won't upload it yet - I am having 'technical difficulties' with my computer, ergo that the fan is kaput and its slowing everything down!

I am also unfortunately dealing with the unpleasant side-effects of laryngitis this past few days .. its not left me in much of a mood for scrapping but I will be staying at home all day tomorrow with Kaleb (he's just getting over a cold himself) and maybe I can try to get a start on a LO or two tomorrow ..... what do you think?

Here is my favourite pic lately ... fast asleep in his cot :)

Til next time :D

My Birth Story: The Surprise Arrival of Kaleb John

2007-03-11T22:13:00.000+11:00

With all the recent developments in our lives, I never got around to posting 'The Birth Story' ... here it is - in all it's glory :)

THE ARRIVAL OF KALEB JOHN

Tues Feb 21st: I woke up feeling a little tight in the abdomen.. thinking nothing of it as baby wasn't due for another month I got on with my day - all the while not feeling 'quite right' but also unwilling to call the Hospital - I didn't want to be thought of as 'just another paranoid new mother' :)

Wed Feb 22nd: No pains today - just semi-irregular tightenings. I passed them off as Braxton Hicks, as baby wasn't due (as I'd said) for another month.

Thurs Feb 23rd: Today was just a 'regular' day. I didn't feel anything too extraordinary - although I still couldn't shake the weird sensation I got whenever I started moving .. it was as though baby was shoving and stretching my insides.. indescribable unless you've 'been there, done that' :)

Fri Feb 24th: THE BIG DAY (just that I didn't know it!)
10am: It was just another day. My father had called this morning to ask if I'd drive him to the ER of the Royal Hobart Hospital (our local) as the GP suspected he had appendicitis. I wasn't really feeling my best - baby had stopped moving altogether over the past few days and I was beginning to worry.. I'd tried everything to get a movement - the ice-cold glass of water, laying in a warm bath, pressing my belly. Nothing seemed to work.

I'd called the PAC (Pregnancy Assessment Centre) as a last resort and they'd asked me to come in for monitoring. Lucky for my father I was heading to the same place he was!

11am: After waddling up to the Obstetrics floor, I was taken to a bed and a CTG monitoring pad was placed over my now-tight (and uncomfortable-feeling) belly. The CTG was to monitor my baby's heartrate, as well as to document and chart any contractions I may have. I wasn't expecting to feel anything (still in denial as baby wasn't due for another month!) but the tightenings began again and seemed to be intensifying in strength and duration. I didn't panic however, as I was SURE that I would be told baby was fine and that it was normal for movements to decrease in the later stage of pregnancy. I began to plan my activities for the day.

12pm: The PAC doctor attending me checked the CTG readout and immediately informed me that she would like to do an internal - "just to be sure what it happening". After some fiddling about (and with a fair amount of discomfort and bleeding on my part), she announced that I was 80% effaced and that I had been experiencing contractions!! Baby was fine .. his heart-rate was strong and regular. I was also given an ultrasound to confirm baby's position and lo and behold! I was given another surprise: baby was breech! I tried to make sense of the ultrasound but I couldn't tell which end was which! What a shock, after all these months being told by the midwives that he was head-down.

Another doctor came to visit me next - I was struggling to come to terms with what was happening and didn't take much notice of what he was doing until he sat down, took my hand and asked me if I would consent to a c-section .. TODAY. He told me I could go home if I wished but that I would definately be back by the weekend - there was no stopping my labour. He expressed concerns that I shouldn't attempt a natural birth with a breech presentation as there was no telling how things would progress and being a first pregnancy they wanted to ensure I experienced as stress-less a labour as possible.

1pm: I called my mother at work to let her know that her grandson would be arriving today and could she please come to the hospital and stay with me during my 'delivery'. I don't know who was in more shock - me or her! I remember she kept saying "Are you sure? Oh my god, what did they say? Is he okay? Are you sure?" I kept calm and simply told her "I'm 80% effaced and having regular contractions.. they're 5minutes apart."

1.30pm: The next thing I know I'm in an empty delivery room being prepped for surgery! I changed into the hospital gown and waited on the bed with another CTG. There was another woman delivering in the next room and we were waiting to see if she would need the theatre - if not, it was all systems go for us. Whilst I waited, my mother arrived and was changed into her 'scrubs'. A nurse shaved me and inserted the catheter I would need; she also gave me some drugs via the IV line that had been inserted - I would need medications to counteract any side-effects of the epidural I was booked for... so much for my drug-free birth plan!

2pm: I was wheeled into theatre and nervously awaited the surgeons while the nurses busied themselves with attaching BP cuffs, heart monitor pads and more IV lines. There was a moment of embarrassment and laughter when I realised I was still wearing my bra and had to remove it ... so much for my modesty :)

By now the surgeons had arrived and they set to work giving me the epidural. I had to sit on the edge of the bed and lean over to expose my spinal column .. my mother was holding my hand as the needle went in ... I never even felt it much to my surprise. Now we waited for it to take effect.

2.27pm: After much pulling, pushing and shoving, my 36-week old son, Kaleb John, was brought into the world. Being premature, the staff worked quickly to assist my son as he took his first breath and gave 2 tiny cries - I couldn't see anything other than a tiny, perfectly-formed blueish foot. Then he was brought over to me. He was wrapped in a bunny-rug and looked a little worse for wear - I could have sworn he was frowning!! Words can't describe how I felt as I kissed his tiny forehead.. it was like nothing I had experienced before in my life. I didn't have much time to spend cuddling my baby - he was in respiratory distress and had trouble breathing properly .. there was a lot of 'grunting' and the staff gently but firmly told me he needed some help from the NICU staff. My mother went with him as I remained in theatre to be stitched up. I was given a photo of my baby in the humidicrib to keep close as I waited for the epidural to wear off.. then I could be wheeled to the NICU to see my baby.

Saturday Feb 25th:
This would be the next time I saw Kaleb - during the night he'd graduated to an open air cot in the Special Care Nursery (SCN). I was so happy when the nurse brought him to my bedside that morning and said "He's ready to be with Mummy". Sadly, later that day I discovered that he hadn't developed his suckling reflex. Because of this, I was unable to feed him and the best place for him to be would be back in the SCN. I cried many tears that night beside his cot in the SCN as I realised he wouldn't be coming home with me.

The next 5 days went by in a blur. I'd spent every possible minute in the SCN with Kaleb -his suckling reflex was slow to develop so my first few attempts at breastfeeding weren't as successful as I'd hoped, but on day 6 he latched on and began taking milk ... what a relief! I was smiling from ear to ear as I drove home that night.

Kaleb was to come home on day 11 - March 6th, 2006. One of the happiest moments of my life was when I walked out of the hospital with my baby in my arms.

Kaleb John Wyllie
Born: Feb 24, 2006.
Weight: 2833gms (at birth) 2740gms (at discharge 11 days later)
Head circ: 34.5cms
Length: 50cms
C-Section delivery: Spontaneous premature labour and breech presentation.

Would you like fries with that?

2007-03-10T16:28:00.000+11:00

If only I could rewind this week and start over ....

There has been so much happening this week that I can't believe I am overdue on my post AGAIN!! So much for my Monday updates!

Firstly, I am officially looking for a home of my own to move Kaleb and I into - of course, this brings with it the obligatory worries of how will I be able to provide for us when we are out by ourselves? Will we make it? Will we sink or swim? I have my doubts but there are many people sending us goodluck vibes and that has to count for something right?

Secondly, I come home from spending the night at DBF house to break the news to my parents ... they beat me to the punch with the shocking news that they are seriously looking into relocating to Qld ... I mean, knock me for six why don't you!!!

There are so many things to consider now, like - Do i move with them? Do i say farewell to DBF? Do i leave the job i love so much? Do i uproot Kaleb from daycare where he's never been so happy? All these questions and many more are now swimming merrily about in the fishbowl that is my brain :(

I need time to think so I will give myself 2 weeks to search for rental properties here in NSW - there is one in particular already that has caught my eye so hopefully I can get a looksie and if it suits I plan to lodge my application tout-suite!

I have even managed to scrap a LO amongst all this chaos and that in itself is a major achievement!!! It took me a little over half an hour to create and the results are pretty good (if I do say so myself!). The photo pretty much speaks for itself and I was playing around with hand-written and hand-cut titles today .... not sure if it works well but it was worth a shot :)

A big development in Kaleb's world is that he's now standing unaided PROPERLY!! He also took his first 'step' 3 days or so ago .. I was reaching out to him when I arrived at care to collect him - he took one shuffle towards me, another shuffle with the same foot and then sat on the floor, having decided that crawling would be quicker lol.... here are some pics from the other night which demonstrate how well he stands!! These pictures were taken in the space of 5minutes and he stood the ENTIRE time which is a marvel!! Loves those water bottles too lol :)

See you next week!!

Kaleb's 1st Birthday - February 24, 2007.

2007-03-02T22:01:00.000+11:00

Its been such a rollercoaster ride- the last 12 months have been anything but Easy St but so far I can safely say its been the most inspirational and amazing experience of my life

I still watch over Kaleb as he sleeps some nights and marvel at the fact that hes MINE .. I think forward to his future and it gives me shivers to imagine what he'll be like, how he'll look, what he'll be interested in, how his behaviours will change - its a little scary but so exciting at the same time!

His birth was nothing short of a miracle - I believe in my heart of hearts that his angel sibling (who never made it past 11 weeks) was watching over him and taking care of him while he was in the NICU and SCN .. helping him get big and strong so that he could come home quickly. It worked! He was so strong and determined that he only stayed hospitalized for 11 days; coming on home on day 12 was such a triumph

The celebrations for his First Birthday were made under stressful circumstances (to say the least ) I am now working FT and finding a spare moment to prepare his day just as I dreamed of was quite the challenge. Luckily things went according to plan - I baked his cake, decorated the house, prepared the party food and even made sure there were balloons and party hats for all our family.

The day began wonderfully. The sun was out, the breeze was softly blowing the remains of a humid few days away - it was perfect conditions for a little boys first party.

We had stayed at DBF the night before to allow me time to prepare the cake in secret There may still be icing left in his fridge We arrived home again around 11am where Kaleb made the most of his hugs and kisses. DBF - also known as 'Uncle Ty' made it later in the day - showing support for me by being the only other 'party hatt-er'

First it was present-time. There was a lot of wrapping paper! His Nan and Poppy Wyllie gave him a dear little ride-on bike with a lift-up seat for storing his 'special toys', it also has 2 buttons that play music .. like an in-car CD player

I bought (once again ) WAY too many clothes and toys for the Birthday Boy.. I enjoyed buying his new shoes the most There were cards from his Nan and Poppy Compagne in Tasmania, as well as special-handmade cards from Aunty Demii and Uncle Jaiden.

Mummys card was store-bought .. if only because I couldnt find a way to express how much his being in my life means to me Trust Hallmark to do the job for me!

It was a magical day, one filled with hope and promise for the future. I cant believe my little baby has made it this far - I can't wait to share more of these special days with him ... he's made my life and family complete and I couldn't have dreamed of a more precious and joyful son - he is my everything and I daresay I would be lost without his precious influence in my life.

As always - the milestones he's met for this month

Explores environment by touch.
Attempts self-feeding.
Repeats a range of sounds, babbles a lot when playing.
Picks up small objects, using thumb and index finger, known as the 'pincer grasp'.
Doesn't put objects in mouth as much.
Climbs on furniture.
Like throwing toys or objects to the floor and watching where they fall.
Enjoys praise from familiar adults.

I will be posting his Birth Story next week. It's been brought to the forefront of my mind since his birthday - I feel it may help to write it out again with a fresh perspective. I'd also love to share the amazing arrival of my son with you all aswell.

Til next time!

I know, I know!!!

2007-02-22T21:46:00.000+11:00

Hi all ..

I realize this entry is WAY late but Ive been a very busy girl ... does that get me off the hook? :)

Work has been slightly crazier than usual, there's 2 away which means almost a quarter of our workforce is gone lol!! It makes it hard to stay on top of things when the work just keeps piling up, and piling up .... and piling up ... get the picture yet?

In case you were wondering, the Evanescence concert was absolutely AMAZING!! It still seems so unreal that I was THIS CLOSE to a real-live rock goddess! DBF and I stayed at a 5-star hotel in the city - there was a lovely bottle of champers with choccie strawberries in our room .. spa bath, fluffy bathrobes - room service breakfast ... heaven! Nan and Poppy Wyllie looked after Kaleb for the evening so it was great to take my MUM apron off - for an entire night!!

I have some pictures from the night that I'll attach to the end of the post - I plan to scrap the pics when I have time - which should be sometime around 2010 hahaha!

Nah, seriously though - Id really love to be scrapping but with the preparations for Kalebs birthday (his FIRST!) and staying on top of stuff at work, maintaining my lovelife ... I havent found the time! Mostly because my scrap desk is down in the bedroom and until I move, K and I share a room and I dont really WANT to wake him with my scrapping noise :)

On the topic of babys 1st birthday :) .. Im baking him a cake in the shape of a '1' and decorating it with lollies, musk sticks and smarties... all his presents are wrapped (and then some!), the camera is charged and ready - - all that has to happen now is for Saturday to arrive! Id decided to make it just family for this birthday .. he's too young to appreciate what goes with a proper 'party' so Im happy to wait for that malarky until he's in kindergarten or something :)

As promised .. the Evanescence shots and a 'quicky piccie' of Kaleb :)

Rain Rain GO AWAY!!!!

2007-02-12T22:35:00.000+11:00

Today was the dreariest day I've yet to experience since moving to Sydney in October :(

It started with a HUGE thunder and lightening storm last night which carried on into the early hours of this morning - thankfully Kaleb slept right through it!!

I did, however, have to drive in the heaviest downpour EVER to drop him into care and then myself to work, where I proceeded to almost break my neck by slipping on the wet concrete walkway outside work - it was NOT a very dignified recovery let me tell you!!

My day went quite well though I thought - I was taking some calls later in the afternoon which was a great relief to me ... Ive been dealing with a large account's orders on a recalled lens for almost a week ........ it's not a fun task having to call each and every store to tell them they can't have the lens they ordered! The Staff Supervisor sat with me and listened in, rescuing me when the questions got too curly (yeah ... like you could take down a request for an MTO lens with spectacularly obscure base curves and powers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

I'm so looking forward to this coming Saturday!! Besides the fact that Kaleb is going to be babysat for the ENTIRE night, which gives me the once-in-a-lifetime chance to be just 'Stace' for a full 24hours, I get to spend the night in a posh hotel with DBF as well as see Evanescence in the flesh!! Who could ask for more?! I'll be taking my camera and plan to have some great shots to scrapbook - my mojo is AWOL at the moment. Work and my lovelife have taken precedence the last 2 weeks and so scrapping has had to take a backseat ... I plan to devote some of my weekend however to getting a smidgen of mojo back in order to start the CJ for the S4L forum.

As always, I'll leave you with my favourite Kaleb picture of the moment - it's from his Studio Portait sitting taken 3 weeks ago ... I just love it! He looks so grown up!!!!!!!!!! Its hard to think that my next update will see him just 5 days away from his FIRST BIRTHDAY!!!!

The soon-to-be Birthday Boy!

This, That 'N' The Other

2007-02-05T21:35:00.000+11:00

What a start to the week!

I'm only just beginning to recover from a dreadful head cold that attacked me :) on Saturday morning .. It's still a little like my sinuses are stuffed with cotton wool but I'm heading down the road to recovery.

Kaleb has been in fine spirits these last few days which is great - being in care hasn't affected him negatively at all .. in fact, its been quite the opposite! He's a much more settled and happy baby because of it! This morning was so cute as he actually got excited when he realised where I was taking him - if that wasn't all, he almost had me in tears of happieness this afternoon when I collected him - he was playing happily on the babygym and as soon as he saw me a grin spread over his little face and he crawled across the room within milli-seconds to hug me!!!!

He has 3 teeth now and another quickly on its way - the best news is that he's started sleeping through the night again - it makes a real difference to my bodyclock! Especially now that Im working again I really need my uninterrupted sleep :)

DBF and I are going from strength to strength also - we haven't seen as much of each other as we used to because of my work commitments ... I still look forward to our Friday night sleepovers as much as ever :) We email each other during the day with stupid annecdotes and pictures, and there's always MSN to use in the evening :) Life is pretty good lately!!!! lol

It won't be long now and my little boy will be turning 1 .. where has the time gone?? It still seems like yesterday that I was pregnant, then there was that fateful day my life changed forever - I still get goosebumps thinking about his birth and the emotions that came with a premature birth and subsequent SCN/NICU admission. What a long way he's come in 12months! I couldnt ask for a more content, sweet-natured, loving and well-adjusted baby!! Of course we have our ups and downs but what parent doesnt? I have my 'busy boy' and thats all I could hope for *sighs with motherly contentment* :) lol

So who wants another pic???

Pic 1: Mr Cutie-Pie in Mummy's bed enjoying morning playtime and Pic 2: Crawling through the doorway when he thought no-one was looking!!!

The start of the working week.

2007-01-30T21:38:00.000+11:00

Yesterday was my FIRST DAY working for Ciba Vision and it was nothing like I expected!!

For one, the atmosphere is so relaxed its almost (ALMOST) like Im not working at all - the dress code is 'smart casual', you have the autonomy to choose when you take your shorter breaks, you can EAT AT YOUR DESK!! and the headsets are wireless so there's no more 'leash' :)

It's really quite different from what I'm used to - I think I'll enjoy working here!

Kaleb's first full day at care went well (I had a picture of him on my desk to look at during the day .. I must have smiled at it at LEAST 100 times!) - he didn't cry when I left - well, for about 10seconds after I'd be gone 15minutes but who's counting?! He ate all his meals and even slept for an hour in the morning and afternoon! I was smiling like an idiot when I picked him up, I missed my baby SO much!

Today (Tuesday) was a little different - he had a slight sook when I handed him over to Rebecca (his carer) but it wasn't a full-on distressed wail ... more like a whine of protest that he got over very quickly :) Only one sleep today but he wasnt grumpy and he'd even had a chance to paint me a picture .......... it doesnt look like much but Im so proud of my boy!!

Tomorrow work-wise Im spending time in HR and Marketing to get some insight into their roles within the company and I may even get a chance to do some actual work!! Its a little boring having to sit there and watch everyone but whats a girl gonna do?

My DBF Ty came to visit me tonight after work and we talked about our plans for the weekend .. I may be able to rope my mother into picking up Kaleb earlier on Friday so I can drive straight home and get ready for our sleepover :) We want to go out shopping on Saturday for some homewares :)

Here's my fave pic of Kaleb for the week ... it's from our day at 'Summer Bay' last week .. ENJOY!!!

I'm now officially a 'Working Mum'!!

2007-01-23T14:21:00.000+11:00

Well, well, well!

What a week! Since my last entry I've had gastro myself, seen my DBF come down with it within 24hrs of seeing me, scrapped 2 more LOs, taken 4 phone interviews and most importantly ....... gotten a job!

I start on Monday and it's a position with Ciba Vision - they're the country's No1 supplier of contact lenses and solutions etc. I couldn't believe it when I heard! Theres plenty to be done before I start however ... I have to complete a mountain of paperwork at the childcare centre to ensure my 2 weeks' free fees are in order, contact Centrelink (again) to get an approximate estimate of my new proposed payments (do their figures match mine?) and go shopping!!!!!!!!!

It was my 3rd interview, and judging that there are so many people applying for each and every job I believe I went extremely well to make it past the initial selection phase :)

I went scrap shopping to celebrate - I'm yet to purchase my goodies but there's a brilliant little Accucut Zip'E Mate Die-Cutter that I have my eye on, as well as some smart little Heidi Grace fabric letters, some Urban Lily rubons, some more Bazzill ... ah, the list is endless!

My latest LO shall be uploaded to the Featured LO area of my blog for your perusal shortly -- I thought in the meantime here are some pictures of my darling boy to take up some space ;)

First Entry - Welcome!

2007-01-15T14:33:00.000+11:00

Wow! The first post ....

It always seems that there are so many expectati0ns of the first post in a blog ... don't you think? I for one plan to do away with all the pomp and ceremony a new blog demands and simply get straight to it :) I have plenty to say (and show) and not much time to do either at the moment.

For one, my dear, darling boy Kaleb has contracted a gastric bug from his orientation day at care. Keeping my baby boy safe from sickness is one of life's impossibilities but I do my best .. he's ok at the moment - actually fast asleep in his cot as I type at my scrap desk.

Which brings me to the next topic of discussion - my obsession with scrapbooking :) How many of us know what I mean?! There are thousands upon thousands of forums, websites, magazines and stores dedicated to this great craft.. I fell into it completely by accident in September of 2005. I was 3 months pregnant and I wanted a unique, creative and novel way of maintaining my memories and experiences as a first-time mother. There was a scrapbook magazine in my local supermarket and things have spiraled from there!!

I promised myself I would plug my local scrap forum so here it is : http://www.scrapbooking4less.com.au

It's a fabulous little site, maintained and administered by my good friend Shelley :) (Hiya gf!!) and there is always plenty to keep you occupied. Swaps, challenges, chats.. I could go on and on!

I'm in the mood for scrapping at the moment, as my mojo is back in a MAJOR way lol! In order to get it out of the way, here is two of my latest LOs - they show my 'eclectic style' as well as a fantastic picture of Kaleb and I :)

The 'First Impressions" LO uses bazzill cardstock, MM rubons, PebblesInc stamps and (I think!) SEI paper

My 'Mum's little Cookie Monster' LO is using PebblesInc stamps, MM rubons, Francheville ribbon, bazzill cardstock, Heidi Grace tag and (once again I forget!!) what I THINK is AMM papers.

TFL