Kim And Ro

Work in progress

2011-02-23T03:41:00.000-08:00

I have been making a blanket/quilty-thing for my friend who is getting married this weekend, and I was getting worried that I bit off more than I can chew. It was meant to be simple enough for me to do, but nice enough to give as a wedding present, and then I went and changed stuff and made it more complicated than planned. Anyhoo, it's coming along now. Will it be done by Saturday, though? (Ro thinks I'll end up buying a toaster.)

The back of it

Quiet

2011-02-22T14:24:00.000-08:00

I have become a little bit lazy with the TV at night, and found myself vegging out in front of it after the kids are in bed, and wasting the rest of the night watching whatever I can find on the box. The sad thing is that often I end up complaining that nothing is on or yelling at the people on the box because I think they're ignorant/exploitative/bad actors etc... but that doesn't mean I actually turn it off! The crazy thing is that I keep it on regardless. SO... what Rohan has challenged me to do is turn it off... FOR A MONTH. So in fairness - and since he is so keen on my doing this - I challenged him to have no cigarettes for a whole month. Since he wants to quit anyway, I thought this was a good way to keep him motivated.

So there you have it... the challenge for the next month. No TV, and no ciggies. Bring it on!

I have to note that we started a couple of nights ago and the quiet that comes after the kids are in bed has been just lovely. We have read books and I have sewn, and we have been in bed a lot earlier than usual, because we are much more chilled out earlier in the night. This could be habit-forming!

I'm back

2011-02-16T00:24:00.000-08:00

Hello again. I have been missing doing the blog, so decided I had better just jump back in. Couldn't possibly fill you in on everything that's been happening since my last post, so I will just include some pics...

Enjoying the backyard, in sunshine...

and after rain...

Camping

Re-arranging the girls rooms so we have a playroom...

and a shared bedroom...

Making stuff...

Reading stuff...

Catching up with beautiful friends...

Spending some quality Laney-Mummy time before...

her first day of school!

And hanging out with the little munchkin

Enjoying the lake now that it's past full!

And a little bit of this...

Thanks Lynne for a nice photo of Ro

Girls

2010-11-26T22:56:00.000-08:00

Ro took these lovely ones...

Festive season

2010-11-23T19:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas wishes...

I don't think so!

Hello again

2010-11-14T15:38:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a long time, and I have to admit I have been losing enthusiasm for the whole blog thing, but I thought I would keep my mum happy by posting something.

Here is a couple of pics (Ro has taken) from recent fun we've been having with the girls.

Laney's BFF Sarah came for tea

Fun at the Ballarat Show

Perfect Sunday

2010-10-17T14:58:00.001-07:00

Perfect Sunday =

Ro lets me sleep in and takes care of getting the girls brekky

Family pile in to Dottie (Kombi)

Talbot Farmers Market - fresh produce, trash and treasures

Tuki Trout Farm for Ro to pick up some fish for smoking

Captains Creek Winery - delicious wine and cheese platter by the open fireplace while the kids play

Home for cuddles on the couch with my big girl while watching Junior Masterchef

More wine and cuddles with my fella on the couch while we watch a scary movie

Bed

2010-10-12T19:08:00.000-07:00

Fifteen years ago I spent the night of a university ball sitting at a table for most of the night talking to (flirting with) this guy who I thought was pretty hot, and funny, and interesting, and later that night found out that he was a damn good kisser. Fast forward fifteen years, and he still makes me laugh, he is my best friend and I still think he's hot. Shame I married Ro instead, huh. Just kidding. Happy anniversary, my love.

This is just outside the cottage we stayed in at Dunkeld for our anniversary. Very relaxing.

2010-10-04T17:45:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't blogged in a million years, but I have just had so much going on that I haven't known where to begin, and it all seemed too much. I will post some more details soon. In the meantime I will leave you with a quote from Helena while we were away. As she held a long pointy cone shell to her head, "Look Mum, I'm a unicorn!"

These are from Ro's blog from Tassie.

Good week

2010-09-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

I am having a pretty terrific week this week. As we are all getting excited about upcoming birthdays and our trip to Tasmania on Monday, we have also spent time hanging out with great friends in the past 24 hours which has just been so much fun. Yesterday I went to visit my sister and nephew, with my girls and my dad. We had a great day just hanging out. Last night we went out for dinner and drinks to our local pub with friends, and I had a fantastic time, laughing a lot. Then this morning other good friends from Melbourne who were passing through town popped in and had a quick visit which was a very welcome surprise. I really do feel blessed to have such wonderful friends. I think I may have actually told them all this a lot last night during my tipsy ramblings, but it really is true. They are so warm, fun, hilarious and well, good friends. Thanks for a great night, all!

Lou and Em - Two of my gorgeous friends.

Lately Friday night has been tent night

Just had to include this pic, because I think she looks beautiful. Taken while she was sick on the couch.

I am making plans for these babies

Just been adding pictures to the wall.

Again with the beautiful! Sleeping in the tent. New promo picture Shannon?

How awesome is this Princess Leia card Helena and I made for my sister.

Check out the red gun, and her signature buns.

Lovely pressies I got yesterday. I think the theme was handmade or red. So spoilt!

Kombi badge and journal made by Steph (Doily) and bag made by my sis.

Hair pulling

2010-09-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Why do my girls have to fight with each other so much? I know it is frustrating for both of them. One is too young to do all the things her big sister can do, and the other gets annoyed by the fact that her little sister doesn't understand the importance of leaving the teddies exactly where they are because they are in the middle of a picnic. But do they have to scream and pull hair?

Kim x

2010-09-13T16:19:00.000-07:00

Ro has a new blog, and I am really digging it. He is taking a million photos and posting all the time. Check it out. Daybook Exchange.

It's a phase

2010-09-08T22:02:00.000-07:00

I have this problem with clumsiness. OK, I've said it. It's out there. It is very frustrating for those who spend a lot of time with me, and I do feel for people like Rohan, and my Mum who put up with it for the 22 years that she lived with me. I can remember spending a week away with my closest girlfriends in my mid-twenties and mentioning it, to which they said they hadn't noticed. Bless them. I think I spilt about five drinks over the course of that week, (granted they were alcoholic) but there was no denying it after that. I appear to go through certain periods of high clumsiness every so often, and I have been contemplating why that occurs? Is it from lack of sleep, lack of a certain vitamin, lack of sex, lack of something? I haven't managed to figure it out. Whatever the cause, I seem to be going through one at the moment, having sliced the top of my finger off with a newly sharpened knife and setting fire to an oven mitt within a 24 hour period. Thankfully I am experienced enough to act quickly when these happenings occur. Although I have to say fire isn't usually my forte. I hope this phase is done now.

Kim x

2010-08-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

I just cleaned my car. What a horrible job. With bits of biscuits, Macca's chips, banana peel and general rubble smooshed into every surface, it took someone at the carwash place less time to clean their commercial bus than for me to vacuum mine. Wonder how long this cleanliness will last? Couple of days?

Kim

Winter won't bring us down

2010-08-15T19:56:00.001-07:00

Sure it's been raining. Raining and cold. The wind stinging with rain, coming in from all directions. Dams are full, tanks overflow, roads are hazardous. But it puts a big smile on our faces. It brings promise that this summer will be a very, very good season.

When the weekend finally comes round, we don't stay indoors moaning about the winter weather, instead we get out amongst it. Putting Thaw magazine to bed was the right thing to do as we can finally enjoy weekends as a family without working! We all load up in Dotty and head off, usually with a pretty vague idea of where we want to go. We just head to Creswick and take it from there. If there's a market on we'll go to it....the amount of treasure we've bought is great. We found a great old wooden shoe cleaning box, an old ladder for our high bookshelf, an old tin First Aid wall unit, and books galore. We've been to the garden of St Earth in Blackwood and got seeds for the next veggie season. We've hit the Daylesford and Trentham markets treasure hunting. We picked up fresh trout at Tuki, we relaxed fireside at the cute cellar door of Captains Creek Vineyard quaffing their stunning Pinot Noir.

If your lucky enough to live out in the country like we do, then I recommend a drive around to check out all the water in the paddocks and the creeks. We had a ball yesterday driving over flooded creek and river crossings in the Kombi. So much fun!!! Creeks are running for the first time in years, some that I've never seen flow before!

And to keep inline with our new balanced work/life balance, we've booked a trip over to Tasmania in Spring. We're more excited than the kids! This happiness is sickening.

xoRo

Yippee!!! Another road trip!!

Dotty. Our vehicle of adventure out for a bush picnic.

Garden of St Earth, Blackwood

Garden of St Earth, Blackwood (The most important tree in the collection)

Trentham falls FLOWING!

Picnic at Trentham falls

Daylesford Sunday Market (At the old train station)

New duffle coat of pure wool from Creswick Wollen Mills. It's made to last, unlike the crap from available at our wonderful department stores.

Stunning Trout we bagged from Tuki, one of these ended up smoked and used in a delish pasta dish last night.

Hi-jinx at Captains Creek Winery.

Our dream weekender cottage at Captains Creek

Running through the Olive Trees. No doubt they were up to no good.

It rained outside, we sat here and drank the Pinot. It sucked. Wish you could have joined us. Really.

The Cellar Door

The booze.

The mud.

A Dooer-upper?

And my truck is finally legally mine....all fixed and ready for hauling and hunting!

Life gets in the way.

2010-08-11T17:08:00.000-07:00

In answer to Ro's question from my perspective, I have been busy doing other stuff. I certainly spend a lot less time in front of a computer now that we no longer do Thaw. And I have to say I am loving it! I was the picture of domestic goddess-ness yesterday. Picture this - me, in an cute little apron, baking cakes and cooking dinner at 4 in the afternoon! "Who is this woman, and what has happened to Kim?" I hear you ask. Well, I just have to admit that sometimes I really enjoy this "stay at home Mum" thing. I figure I had better enjoy it while it lasts. Oh, and yesterday wasn't really the norm, I just made a promise to Laney. She tells me I am definitely still "in".( Masterchef, that is.)

The girls very proudly display their butterflies on the fridge.

I found some great crochet patterns at an Oppy the other day.

Yesterdays cake

And a fruit and nut loaf for us grown ups

All baked with the help of my new little beauty

The chocky cake is from here. The CWA cook book handed down from lovely MIL.

Have been enjoying my colourful scarf I just finished

Few works in progress. This will be a cardie for Tia.

Granny square blanket for us, in the making.

I've been meaning to post a finished photo. Here's Tia's elephant.

Is it just me....?

2010-08-10T21:42:00.001-07:00

Is anyone blogging anymore? Does anyone care. Has this race been run?

No Shame.

2010-08-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

I have absolutely no shame in admitting that I like Willie Nelson.

In fact he's part of a long line of 'country' artist's that get a good playing in our house. I've been ruthless with my iPod lately, removing the music that just isn't me. The stuff that is left over is all quality, and gee what a surprise! Most of it was recorded 30+ years ago! Seriously I'm really tired of the new shit. Most of it is just that, and has been since the 80's. There's only a handful of albums each year that really float my boat. The rest are just filler.

I was lucky enough to go backstage and meet Willie after a show about 10 years ago. Magic moment. He played for 3 hours, until his fingers were bleeding. Kim fell asleep. I sat starry eyed, at one of my musical hero's.

If your new to Willie, try these albums, Red Headed Stranger, Teatro, Spirit and for that really early stuff try, Country Willie sings his own songs.

New Philosophy

2010-07-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

I'm really liking this philosophy, it's simple. I dig simple, I can do simple.

When I was waiting for my tattoo in Brooklyn this was the wall I stared at. I sat outside pondering the stencil work before me, while 'Brooklynites' wondered past devouring melting ice creams in the sweltering heat. Taxis and cars zoomed past and honked their horns indiscriminately, it's New York after all. Amongst all this chaos it's a great place to think in some sort of bizarre way. I pulled out my camera and made the record of this moment. Every picture I take is a record, an assistant to my ageing memory. As I get older I love looking over old picture albums, who doesn't? I'm intrigued by who we used to be, how we used to be, what we used to think. Thank goodness for cameras, yes?

xoRo

So what've the girls been up to?

2010-07-15T17:01:00.000-07:00

I know you have all been wondering what Kim and the girls have been up to, while the boy has been galavanting about on the other side of the world. Well, I am glad you asked... ok, so you didn't, but I will tell you anyway.

Instead of focussing on the fact that Ro was in New York, exploring galleries and museums, and enjoying dinners out with friends, shopping without kids and enjoying strolls in Central Park, and the fact that I was left all alone, back in freezing cold Ballarat, all alone, to look after the children, all alone. (Not that I'm bitter. Oh no.... far from it.) I decided to catch up with friends and family in Melbourne and have a mini holiday of our own. And quite honestly, it was lovely to see them all. We girls really enjoyed the school holidays, and enjoyed some proper, good fun, quality family time together.

OK, we did miss Ro a bit. And we are very happy to have him home.

Here are some pics from our adventures...

Watching movies in bed with Molly...

Look what the beautiful Daisy is sleeping under.... wonder who made that?

A ride on Thomas the tank engine with cousin Charlie. Toot toot!

Meeting our little second cousin Alice.

Staying with my wonderful Mum.

Enjoying our new table and chairs from Ikea. Yes, they are Master Chefs at work you see.

And we are enjoying our NY souvenirs.

It's great to be home.

2010-07-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

I'll catch up with you all in the next few weeks......

Hugs.....

No Idea

2010-07-09T16:16:00.000-07:00

I'm in Manhattan and I'm trying to make sense of the place. In reality the best thing is to not even try. I'm coming to the end of my adventure and although I love the crazy world that is NYC.......I miss my girls, all three of them. But I digress.

NYC is amazing as f$%^. Everything the Beastie Boys told me it was. I've been watching baseball, admiring world art and semi-enjoying $1 hot dogs.

I've spent so much time in central park, like a lazy bastard. I even treated myself to a romantic row boat adventure. Let me tell you it was good but without my lovely girls kinda weird.

I've definitely fallen into the trap of buying a heap of unnecessary crap and over spending but I knida don't give a crap. It's New York.

I got my new ink in Brooklyn and I rode the subway, seen amazing art and drank NY cocktails like Johnny Cash wrote good songs. The art museums reminds me of Europe and the bad service reminds me of Melbourne.

If you have time.......pictures here.

All in all I'm super dooper stoked to be here.

Steph...FYI....it's not just another big city. Its a melting pot of whatever your heart desires.

If I could make sense of it.....don't you think I would.

2010-07-07T18:04:00.000-07:00

I don't have much to say. NYC is what it is.

Check it.

Wedding Days

2010-07-04T14:50:00.000-07:00

If your interested, I've popped the Declan and Tori NYC wedding experience pic's on my website. Take a peek. It's pruuudy.

MY WEBSITE

If your interested, I've popped the Declan and Tori NYC wedding experience pic's on my website. Take a peek. It's pruuudy.

MY WEBSITE

NYC

2010-07-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

It's such an amazing place. So much to write about at this stage I'm just taking in. The diversity of people and demographic is phenomenal. It's busy, smelly, noisy and yet impressive all at the same time. This time of year it's super hot, next week we're due for a super heat wave, ouch!

I must admitI feel a little bit like a country hick visiting the big smoke, but I'm just keeping my head down and getting on with the experience of it all, no matter how much of a dag I feel like.

The wedding which I'm here to photograph was bloody rad. Central Park, sun beating down, good people and plenty of love to go round. Today however has been of a much slower pace. My first day since I arrived to sit down and chill for a bit. Now the work is almost over and I change hats from photographer to tourist.

I hope you're all enjoying the cold weather.

This week

2010-06-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

The past week and a half has been so chilled out, I am a bit excited that this is what I have to look forward to now that Thaw is no longer my responsibility. I really feel a lot more relaxed and happy. I have really enjoyed being able to spend "quality" time with my girls, and have time for other important things that needed to be done. Here's a snapshot of the last 10 days...

Kim x

Fantastic cubby constructions

Enjoying cake mix.... yum

Picking berries from the Hawthorn bush for sauce-making

Sitting on the bus with an excited Helena on the way to the Fire Station

Watching her hold the big hose

Visiting the Museum with cousin Charlie

Enjoying cupcakes from the Farmers Market

Picking up pine cones with Dad

And walking through the fairy garden

a little less embarrassing

2010-06-27T19:02:00.000-07:00

Finally I have got the pick-up looking semi-decent. All the stickers are removed (sorry Shaz) the unnecessary bullbar, lights, Tarzan horn, canopy.....all removed. And I even replaced the '4 Horseman of the Apocalypse' exhaust with something a little more 'Driving Miss Daisy'.

It's now at the shop getting the RWC inspection. Which will no doubt give me the fright of my life. But there's nothing like living eh!

Then it will be ready for foraging trips, fishing adventures and man trips to hardware stores....arh arh!

Stateside, The home of cliche

2010-06-24T17:14:00.001-07:00

Our house has been a little busy lately and not necessarily in a bad way. We've been sick with colds and broken bones etc but we certainly haven't let that get in the way of doing things as a family. it's been a good thing working from home for three weeks. I've never spent this much time with the girls. But that will change for a few weeks as I'm off to New York for a working holiday next week. I'll love being in a new city but I will miss the family especially having spent so much time with them of late. But it is going to be a great adventure. Although I must admit I am a tad nervous. America has produced some great things and not so great things. I'm sure the experience will be life changing in some way. I shouldn't have written that...I sound too grown up and smart and stuff. Completely not me.

Anyways, I have this wedding to shoot in Central Park this time next week for a Sydney couple who are just super sweet and lovely. They've given me a real opportunity to be more creative with the images which I feel very liberated about. But not too liberated...if you know what I mean...huh huh?

After the wedding I have just over a week to do my own thing, coke, hookers that sort of thing, mixing with 'the people'. One of those free days will be spent at Sylvester Manor, an organic farm out in the Hamptons on Shelter Island. On this historic place they run a great organic farm, and I'm getting a guided tour with the operators and take some pics....the place looks amazing, and I can't wait to meet the guys running it. A day away from the hustle and bustle surrounded by veggies and people who love to grow things is my kind of paradise. Well that is apart from the coke and hookers.

Correction....

2010-06-13T18:16:00.000-07:00

Let's just make it perfectly clear......'The Ugly Beast' is a work horse....nothing more nothing less. And all the bogan paraphernalia is coming off! That includes the bullbar, lights, stickers, Tarzan horn etc. This is what it will end up looking like. I really wanted to do before and after pics but Kim beat me to it! Ouch!

New beast

2010-06-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

Ro and I have purchased a new beast. And yes, that is exactly what it is. Ro decided he needed a pick-up for all his fishing trips, picking up stuff that you need a trailer for, and taking things to the tip, etc. So he started shopping around. He has wanted an F100 for as long as I have known him. This one was at a bargain price. I wonder if you can imagine why? Some photos below might give you a hint...

An excessive amount of lights, mudflaps, aerials and stickers perhaps...

I mean the stickers were very tasteful...

What the....?

This one needs no explanation...

My personal fave...

Oh so many to look at, where do you begin?

Oh, the irony!

Busy, busy

2010-06-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Finally we have got the magazine off to the printers today, so we have finished our last issue of Thaw! It seemed to take forever to get this one done, but I am happy we took the time to make this one a good one to finish off on.

On the home front, we have been working on some other fun stuff too...

We have hung our ham. This is our first attempt at jamon, (Spanish dried ham). It will be a bit like prosciutto - if all goes to plan. It has been in salt for 8 days, (this is me getting all the salt off) and now needs to hang for about 6 months.

We are still processing the olives that Ro picked about 2 weeks ago. About 20 more days.

I am in the process of making a crocheted elephant for Tia. My first attempt at a toy. Just needs ears, eyes and a tail.

Kim x

Great plans

2010-05-30T22:28:00.000-07:00

This week - oh dear, what a week! Recently Ro and I celebrated our wedding anniversary, but we didn't do anything special, so we decided to do something this weekend. We had big plans - a romantic getaway to Dunkeld, with a booking at the restaurant for a 10 course degustation at the lovely Royal Mail Hotel - for Friday night. The kids were all excited about staying at Pa's and we were excited about the idea of peace and quiet, gorgeous food, a sleep in and room service breaky in bed. Doesn't that sound delightful! Well....... who decides to break his foot the night before? Ro. That's who. So what's the sensible plan? Cancel plans. Do I sound bitter? Ok, so I was a little disappointed. But then, I really am over it now. Really I am....boo hoo...

Good news - Ro is doing OK now. There's nothing like a little wine to cure what ails ya.

The funniest part of this whole thing is that the next day, when Ro came home from the Doc's, hobbling around on crutches, our little dog Peggy decided she had an injury too. All day she walked around on three legs, with her fourth in the air, never touching the ground. We actually thought that she had an injury, until we realised it happened the moment she saw Ro on his crutches. She wouldn't even jump up on the couch for a cuddle, we had to lift her up. Otherwise she would have to put weight on her back leg - ouch! Hehee. She miraculously came good the next day. Thank goodness.

Kim x

Plaster Caster

2010-05-29T19:11:00.000-07:00

So I was like standing up and then I was like......not.

Now I have to wear this stupid plaster and hobble on crutches for 3-5 weeks. I am struggling with being dependant on people. But the good thing to come out of it all is that Kim knitted me a sad face sock monster to cover my exposed toes. What a darling nurse she is.

Love is a new pair of Uggs

2010-05-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

In my relationship with Rohan we each have our roles. There are many different jobs and tasks within our household that need doing, and we pretty much know who does what. When it comes to money Rohan is the one who spends it (wholeheartedly and without hesitation), and I worry about it (and try not to spend too much). It's just the way that it is. So when I got upset the other day, and told Ro that I was frustrated with the way he spends, and pointed out the fact that I hadn't even bought myself a decent pair of slippers for Winter yet, he took one look at the state of my old ones, and decided it was time he did what he does best and spent some money. He knew I wouldn't go and do it, so yesterday he shopped and last night he came home with a new pair of good quality ugg boots to replace my old ones. Gotta love him. My feet just don't know what hit 'em. They are so warm and toasty I had to take them off occasionally last night to cool my feet down. Aaah, delicious! It's the small things.

Kim x

Can you tell which ones are the oldies?

Los campesinos desayuno (Peasant's Breakfast)

2010-05-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last May I was knee deep in house renovations. It was cold lonely work. So a wedding job in Dunkeld was a welcome respite for my plaster and paint covered hands. The clients I photographed that day have turned into great friends who I stay with for every wedding job I have in 'Dunkers'. And to make things even more interesting Conchi and Clinton (pronounced Clint-tone) share a passion for great food and wine. Conchi like myself has a Spanish background and it seems she has the innate ability to cook amazingly delish food with what ever she has in the stores. Conchi's Saturday peasant style meal was a late night supper to comfort the most restless of souls. I was so impressed with her side dish of chickpeas with tomato and herbs, and all my ooo's and aaarrr's convinced Conch to give me the left overs for my morning Kombi breakfast. What a darling!

Since then I've made two versions, one with Borlotti beans and one with Chickpeas, both incarnations are equally delish. It's a simple rustic dish, with as much garlic as you desire, whatever fresh herbs you like (Rosemary, Parsley, Oregano or Thyme), some Spinach, Borlotti Beans or Chickpeas and a tin of diced tomatoes. Heat olive oil in the pan, then add chopped garlic (I use 4 big cloves), then in with the beans and tomato. Simmer and then add you herbs and pepper to taste. Best served on crusty toasted bread, I used 2 day old Sourdough left overs......so yummy and crunchy when toasted.

It's the best winter comfort food, breakfast, lunch or dinner.

So thanks to my Spanish friend Conchi!

I love these kids!

The view from the Kombi looking north to Mt Sturgeon. A photo taken with an iPhone does it no justice.

Every time I stay at Conchi's she is miffed by my determination to stay in the Kombi. But waking up to a view like this is just perfect. Although it wasn't warm.

Farewell thaw

2010-05-20T15:44:00.000-07:00

Lots has been going on here, and I am happy to say that very soon we will have less on and more time for relaxation. We have made a big decision here, and decided to stop making Thaw. This will mean more time for the more important things. And even though we are sad to see the end of thaw (although it may not be the end, if we manage to sell it) we are very happy with our decision, and ever since making the decision we've felt really excited at the idea of having all that time to do other things. Basically, family is the priority.

So, when we had a small party for Thaw contributors this weekend, to say thanks for all their hard work, it was perfect timing for a farewell drink as well. We had a ball with so many of our thaw friends under the same roof for the night, and the merriment lasted well into the night and the next morning.

It has also been a big week for Helena who had her first transition day for school next year - (oh my, I can't believe she will be at school soon!) - and had a ball meeting and playing with other kids who will be preppies with her next year.

On the crochet front, I have about a million new projects, but none of them finished, so I will take some pics soon to post.

Ro and I are looking forward to putting this issue to bed this weekend, and settling into a more organised and fun household. I have already thought of many little household jobs that I will now have time for! Yay. (And that was serious people, not even sarcastic.)

Kim x

A few of our favourite Thaw gals!

Marce and Steph at our little soiree.

Sophie and Teags

The awesome school Laney will be going to next year.

Tia enjoyed the games, too.

This is what my cosy little crochet corner used to look like, but I have been getting excited....

and you can no longer see my basket.

My weekend

2010-05-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while since the weekend, and I am about to start a new one, but I have to comment on my mothers day even though Ro has already covered it with his beautiful pictures.

I had a gorgeous weekend. Ercildoune was a wonderful way to spend the mothers day, but prior to that I got to spend a lovely day with my Mum and Sister at the Stitches and Craft show. I had so much fun, got very inspired, and really loved spending the day with my awesome mum and sister. It was a day full of laughs, love and craft, what more could I ask for?

Then I got to spend the night hanging out with one of my oldest friends - we've been friends since we were 15. I loved hanging out, and felt like there just wasn't enough time in the night to have all the conversations we wanted. We gave it a red-hot go though. I don't think either of us paused for breath the whole night. I have to admit I was a little hungover the next day too. But I needed the wine for lubrication of my vocal cords!

Don't you just love spending time with great friends.

Kim x

A cute present from Ro for our anniversary.

The apron I made for Mum - bit dodgy, but made with love.

Laney and I made her Nan's a pasta necklace. This is the dying process

This is the receiving part

My beautiful photo's are framed and hanging on the wall

My favourite part of Mothers Day... hanging out with our girls on the grass in the Autumn sunshine.

Backyard Produce swap

2010-05-11T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have a few fresh jars of my home made Zucchini Relish......grown in my backyard and now turned into a delish relish perfect on cooked meat, in toasted sandwiches or my favorite, on beagle with roast lamb and melted cheese.

If you have some produce you'd like to swap just contact me and we can work out a fair swap. What I'm after is backyard produce, eggs, veggies or jams for winter, which I have bugger ll left.

Also if anyone wants to swap for some fresh Rhubarb I have a batch ready. Let me know if your keen and I'll cut them and swap them.

I have a swap box going on my front veranda. If you're a local I'll pop my stuff in it and just leave your swap item in the box. Easy!

I start with 2.2kg of my home grown Zucchini

Add some heat with Kims Dad's home grown chili

Add some colour (one of these onions I grew myself)

The bright colour comes from the peppers, the green capsicum I grew myself.

With some secret spices and lots of love.......

Heritage at Ercildoune Homestead

2010-05-09T01:02:00.001-07:00

Mothers day was supposed to be spent with Mum and Dad and our family at Ercildoune Homestead, but Mums back went out during the week so we popped in to their house for a cuppa and then we went off for our afternoon adventure. We pulled into the car park and started our lunch picnic. Within 5 minutes we had people all over us seemingly drooling over the kombi.......it's always a nice thing when folks tell us of their kombi stories. Post kombi conversation we had a ball walking through the homesteads garden and buildings and where in heaven. The place is so dreamy, every little detail oozing with tales from the old days. The current owners have done so much work over the years it's mind blowing. They must get so much joy from the place.

By the end of the day the girls were so exhausted it turned feral and slightly hilarious. We packed up and made the most of what was left of our 12th wedding anniversary. It's been a big wearing week with a few mishaps here and there........slumping on the couch with the one person in this world that understands me is just sublime.

xo Ro

Mind racing

2010-05-07T21:20:00.000-07:00

I have just been catching up on a few blogs, and found myself back at Attic24. I am in love with the interiors of these awesome old caravans and campers. It has made my mind race with ideas for our Dottie. And since I bought some vintage fabric at the Stitches and Craft show the other day, I am thinking about new curtains or bunting, and of course crocheted blankets...

Our Dottie. I will post some interior shots when I start the make-over.

Hacker Husband

2010-05-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Hi guys, it's Ro here. You remember me? I used to hang out on another blog but fell out of love with it, caused some major family disputes and thus decided not to have an online opinion. I've deleted my blog of 4 years, deleted my Facebook page and twitter, don't get me started. All in the name of limiting my online life. It was just taking up far to much valuable time. I'm in the process of cutting out a few things in my life that waste my time. However.....

After consultation with my better half, we've decided that I can be a guest blogger here. But I'm only allowed to put pretty pictures and talk about our life minus the attitude. We'll see how long that lasts. I am a cranky old bugger. Example....this Saturday morning I find myself cursing RAGE. The music is becoming pre-packaged uber hipster. Every Gen-Y seems to like dressing up in American Indian head gear with feathers and beads or the super 'original' style of wearing animal faces masks. It appears that 'they' are scared to be original and just follow someone else's clever idea. And that poor interpretation/eighties music revival is just as annoying as those tights that look like jeans. You know the ones I mean. Man am I over seeing tights on the wrong legs. And I'm sick and tired of shallow people so concerned about how people view them. They seem to go to great lengths to tick all the cool boxes. You know what I mean, those kids that HAVE to be seen at the rights festivals, shows, cafes etc...AAARRRGGGG.

So I failed on my first guest post. Do I look boooovered? I have so much to be happy about with our lovely life so I'm going to share that.....mostly. The fun times, the food, the garden and our dream project of one day finding that block of land and building a dream cottage and planting a vineyard and orchard.

I wanted to start my first post with something nice....a Saturday breakfast. But now I can see my word count getting out of control so I'll stop ranting and talk about my breaky.

Yesterday I had the kids to look after while Kim was out of action for the day. After a bit of cabin fever locked in the house I thought I'd take the girls out to a special secret spot that I love about 20 minutes out of town and takes some nice pics for Kim's mothers day gift. This special spot just happens to have heaps of mushrooms of all varieties growing under the pine tree's. And keeping inline with my ever growing hobby of foraging for free food I picked a few Saffron Milk Cap's (Lactarius delicious) for the next days breakfast. These little treasures are really a meaty mushie. They seem to take on the flavours of whatever else is in the pan, and this morning I kept it very simple by frying them with some butter, garlic (Daylesford Organics of course) and Chirizo (Vic Market). And what better to place it on but a bagel from Glicks (which we now get home delivered with the milk!)

These are the ingredients.....

And this is the dish.

These are the pics I took for Kims pressie.

These are pics of my 'special spot'

Focus Kim!

2010-04-27T22:05:00.000-07:00

Why can't I focus on the jobs that really need doing, and just get to it? I have a list as long as my arm of things to do, but can't seem to tick anything off. It doesn't help when people don't call me back, and aren't available when I call them, my printer just won't communicate the way I want it to, and it's too wet and cold here for my washing to dry. I have child-free time, and instead of achieving anything, I am finding myself reading blogs, which is not very productive at all. Oh well, I had better get back to it. Focus Kim, Focus!

Autumn fun

2010-04-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this weekend. At one stage I was sitting toasty on the couch, blanket across my knee with my crochet hook working, the heater next to me keeping me warm , watching the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice... oh Mr Darcy! What more could a girl want? The girls and I had a walk and a play at the park. Loving those Autumn leaves! And if I block out all the housework I had to catch up on, and a small row I had with Ro then really it has been perfect. Here's to remembering the fun times!

Made this little bag for a 5 yo friend who has just welcomed her baby sister into the world, and I don't want her to miss out on presents.

Pincushion swap

2010-04-24T15:58:00.000-07:00

I recently took part in my first crafty blog swap, which was from Kate's blog. The pincushion swap. It was fun to have a new project, but as soon as it approached the deadline, when it had to be in the post, I was frantically trying to make it look pretty, as I left it to the last minute, because my original plan didn't work out as I hoped. So I dropped it in the post on the cut-off day, (when family was visiting for the day and I was distracted), and posted it without any nice note or anything, and felt self-conscious about the standard of it. (In my haste I didn't get a picture to show you, so you will have to just imagine it.)

So you can imagine my feeling of guilt when I received my pincusion and I was totally put to shame! It arrived with some cute star pins, and a lovely note explaining her inspiration for the design of it. A lot of thought went into it, and although I felt guilty, I was so delighted to receive it. Check it out! Thanks so much Linda!!

Note to self - don't leave things to the last minute!

Pleasing ourselves

2010-04-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

We have been getting away a bit lately, and it has been fantastic! Since we bought the Kombi we have had quite a few problems with her, but she just took us down to Nelson for a long weekend, and she did a very good job. We all love climbing inside Dotty when it's raining outside, and I'm sure she loves it too. Here are some pics of stuff and things from the past few weeks.

My blanket is nearly done, just needs a scalloped edge I think

The view from our verandah on the recent Mallacoota trip

The beloved Pa with the grandkids in Mallacoota

Tia discovers jaffas

Laney and I see who can make the tallest poker chip towers

The sun set in front of us on the way to Nelson this weekend

The girls snuggled in their new PJ's in Dotty

The girls made new friends in Nelson, and had some races. On your marks...

get set... GO!

Tia wasn't very competitive. Preferring to stroll

We drove home as the storm arrived

Thaw update

2010-04-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

We have a new website for Thaw, and it is also a new blog. Please check it out, and change any links you might have to our current blog to

www.thawmagazine.com.au

Cheers,

Kim

Love this...

2010-03-31T19:58:00.000-07:00

There are not many blogs (apart from local ones) that I make sure I read regularly, but Attic24 is one of the ones that I do. I love it. My lovely friend Steph introduced me to it, and Lucy makes me want to pick up a hook and start crocheting every time I read about her latest project. Just had to share....

Images from Attic 24

White picket fence

2010-03-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

In all the cliche American movies they talk about the ideal "family life" including the white picket fence. Well we must have it all now ;-)

I took these photos last night.

Green house

2010-03-28T16:35:00.000-07:00

This is what the house looked like just a couple of weeks ago....

Then we hired some helpers to give it a facelift. So I left for Melbourne for the weekend, with the house looking like this...

and came home to see that the windows were looking much prettier...

and the house was changing...

only one thing left for Ro to do. Smash up that ugly fence!

And look at her now!

Sanity

2010-03-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I get so stressy about things, and then one of my girls makes me laugh and snap me out of it . I had to take this picture because I had just been getting really annoyed with the traffic when Tia made me laugh so hard, and I wanted to catch that cheeky look on her face. What would I do without my girls?

Beanie

2010-03-01T14:12:00.001-08:00

I bought a cute little retro crochet pattern book the other day, and since I have been doing nothing but making badges and other stuff thaw related, I decided to spend a night making a beanie for myself. Unfortunately it was more Laney sized, so it's now hers. And she looks so darn cute in it, doesn't she?

My creative space...

2010-02-18T15:33:00.000-08:00

I have decided to join in with Kirsty's creative spaces for once. I am working on my crocheting project still, and really excited that it's now half done. I hope the bub who I am making it for enjoys snuggling in it, just as much as I am enjoying making it. My basket with yarn and hooks are taken everywhere with me at the moment. Out in the back yard so I can crochet in the sun, on trips to Melbourne and Daylesford - can't let a chance to crochet go to waste.

I got excited as I realised I was nearly half done. The little one...

became a full granny square...

then joined three others...

and had a little border added...

and then joined the rest of them.

So I have half a blanket now, and I can't wait to block it, and get the shape right. It looks a little wonky at the moment.

I do love the colours, though. They make me smile.

Thaw crazies

2010-02-16T12:45:00.000-08:00

Thaw is driving me a little batty at the moment, but I am determined to make it through the next 24 hours with my sanity intact. We go to print today. I am so tired! But sometimes a girl just has to grin and bear it. I feel a bit like Laney looks in this photo. x

Fun and games

2010-02-10T17:43:00.000-08:00

What you been up to lately, you ask? Well here is an idea for you....

Thaw is on it's way to print next week, and Ro and I are trying to remain calm, and survive the next seven days ;-) In the meantime here are some photo's that show what we have been up to in the past couple of weeks, since I have been a bit slack with posts.

Hanging out in the back yard with friends on the hot nights...

Helping Ro out at the bridal expo in Ballarat...

...where our girls fancied themselves models.

Getting worn out with the heat.

Shearing our poor old Peggy who now looks rather rat-like

Hanging out and eating great food with new friends...

and causing a ruckus with old (as in "we've known since birth", but not "old") friends...

Enjoying friend's dog's beds...

and the lovely rain.

Our tomatoes fancy the rain too.

And when we all get a bit delirious from the heat, we dress up our big girl in my earrings, bangles, necklaces and make-up and she pretends she is in one of Dad's fashion shoots.

Cuddles Day

2010-02-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

Tuesday and Wednesday are my work days. Usually my wonderful Dad has the girls for those days, and I get to have uninterrupted time in the office. It's very productive, and it means that when I have the girls to myself on Thursday I notice just how many cuddles and kisses I get because they are happy to have me to themselves again. We have had fun playing on the floor - "let's attack Mum" games, drawn pictures, done housework, watched some TV, been grocery shopping, and even given the dog a haircut. But best of all - I have had a million cuddles. And I have just officially renamed Thursday "Cuddles Day".

Oh what fun, to be pushed around the house in Dad's office chair.

Looking out the door

2010-01-28T16:50:00.000-08:00

Because I have small children, sometimes I will look out of the room I am in, just to check what's going on in the next room.

Sometimes, I just love what I see.

From the office I sometimes catch Helena twirling to the music

From bed it might just be our hallway

From the living room it might be Tia, who wants out!

Camping

2010-01-22T20:58:00.000-08:00

It was lots of fun camping last weekend. Although the weather was ordinary, and we had to stay undercover of the Kombi's annex for a lot of the time, it was fun hanging out with friends and family for three days.

This is our little campsite, with Kombi, car, annex and two tents set up. Little squishy.

All the kids loved the hidey places in the Kombi.

Sarah and Laney played Barbies inside, while it rained.

We "grown-ups" enjoyed talking and ...

sensible activities like putting nappies on our dogs. Oh Fraggle, you patient dog!

Oops, forgot Ro

2010-01-13T15:44:00.000-08:00

OK, so a friend of mine pointed out yesterday that she thought it was funny that Rohan didn't make it to the list of things that excite me. Clearly she hasn't been married for 11 years, and doesn't realise that the excitement has gone. No! Just kidding. (Goodness me, wouldn't want to give the wrong impression.)

In all honesty he is definitely one of the things in my life that brings a smile to my face every day. (He makes me laugh more than anyone.) And there is no need to worry, because we say "I love you" to each other every day, so I'm sure he realises that he has that affect on me.

Just in case - Love you, sweetie.

My special man, having cuddles with Tia

Excitable me

2010-01-11T16:09:00.001-08:00

This year has been pretty awesome so far. Ok, Ok, so it's only been a 12 days, but it's a good sign. I have already started a new work schedule, and am not allowing myself to work when the kids are with me, so that I am "with them" properly. The kids are happier. And this makes me happy.

Since I am happier, I am noticing lately that there are lots of things around me that get me excited when I just look at them, so I thought I would share them with you. They just make me smile.

My lovely new case with my lovely new camera in it.

When my girls spontaneously start dancing in the living room.

My newly bought, but old, basket with my new project in it.

Our kombi who's just waiting to be taken to the beach this weekend.

Our new travel journal from Lark, which I can't wait to write in.

OK, so this shouldn't really excite me probably, but in this heat, it does!

My My Sister Pat bathers. Yet to be christened.

Home again, home again

2010-01-09T16:57:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted any house pics for a while, so thought it was time...

I had to share these beauties with you. They are enormous!

And these are just pretty...

I think we might have to work on the shape of the heart, but you get the idea. I got quite emotional looking over the photos. Aah... memories.

Laney and I made these lanterns this morning.

Christmas and New Years over

2010-01-07T15:50:00.000-08:00

Well I know I have fallen back into my bad blogging habits, but I have excuses.. really. I have been busy getting myself into some new good habits. Over the festive season, I, like many others, have been reflecting on the past year, and realised that I really wanted and needed to make some changes in my life.

The past year has been a rollercoaster of a year. And although it was really tough at times, it was also kinda special at others. We bought this home of ours, which was a definitely a highlight. We celebrated our baby's first birthday, and watched her walk for the first time. Our big girl started kinder, and ballet - which she has really enjoyed. Our magazine has grown and changed, and helped me learn so much - about people, running a business, and myself. We also bought our sweet little Kombi, and took it for fun trips. On the other hand, this year has brought some tough times. With the magazine putting a lot of stress in our lives, the renovations being tough on Ro's body, moving house (which Laney really didn't enjoy) and Ro and I generally feeling overworked, and underappreciated a lot of the time. BUT wait, this year is going to be different! And I am already organised and ready to face the year with enthusiasm.

I have written a list, of all the things that I want to achieve this year. I have already cleaned up my desk, and started a new work routine that will allow me to prioritise my time better. There are going to be more trips away - with nothing but R & R on the schedule. There will be more playtime with the girls. There will be work days that are planned and productive. And there will be a healthier lifestyle with plenty of walking and water. And there will also be time for just Ro and I to have adult conversations that don't involve children, thaw or house stuff. Oh, and lots of dinners with friends and family.

I hope you are having a wonderful start to the year, with many positive thoughts about the future. I know I am.

Cheers,

Kim

Some Christmas snaps (with my lovely new camera)

We dined alfresco on Christmas day, with family

This was the biggest hit on the day - Tia's new car

Tia has a new favourite nook

We recently spent the afternoon at Kate's farm. (Thanks Steph for suggesting it!) She crocheted up a storm while I watched in awe.

Tia loved the chooks

Laney ran around with the other kids while we just chilled here.

Kimbo in the Kombi

2009-12-21T17:37:00.001-08:00

We have been away for the weekend and I am now frantic with all the things I want to do before Christmas. Aargh! I love this time, but I am a little crazy at the moment. I guess I could have not chosen to go away and relax on the weekend. But with our Kombi beckoning us away, how could we resist. I think I might just be more crazy now, if I hadn't taken the time off. It was so nice.

Highlights of the weekend...

Holding Tia's hand as she did laps of our campsite, because there were tears whenever we stopped. (She will be walking so soon!)

Watching Laney run away from the waves, and then run straight back to the water.

Watching Ro fly our new super stunt kite on the beach.

Sitting around drinking beers with new friends.

Talking to Ro, with no (Thaw, computer, housework) distractions.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas.

These photos are courtesy of Ro's blog. He took some lovely photos.

Craftiness

2009-12-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Not that long ago I joined a group of crafters who are a very talented and gorgeous bunch of chicks. They are all lovely to hang out with and I have lots of fun catching up with them once a fortnight. Although initially I felt a little intimidated by the talent they all have for their chosen craft (as I am a wannabe, and not really good at anything crafty) I have found that they have inspired me to do things more creatively in general. As I started planning for Christmas, I have been thinking, "what can I make for....." or "how can I wrap these". Instead of just going to the shop and buying presents and patterned wrapping paper, I am willing to give myself a go at doing it myself. This is not something I really would have attempted in the past. And I am really enjoying it.

I love to cook and bake, and generally struggle to find time for it, but I have been making time to do it. Making cupcakes and chocolates. And I have also been practicing my new crafty skill of crocheting. It's nice to find something that relaxes me, and involves "making". So thanks to all of you lovely girls, for inspiring me.

My first attempt at a crocheted flower, which I made into a brooch for a friend's birthday.

My first crocheted heart. It's hanging on our tree now.

My little hand-made chockies which I gave my crafty friends at our last get-together.

What's going on?

2009-12-09T16:25:00.001-08:00

Our little Dottie is sick, and hopefully will be OK by the weekend.

Laney is coming down off a week-long birthday high.

We've been enjoying dining alfresco in our new pergola - until the weather turned! This is Ro showing off his homegrown potatoes.

Kisses...

Barbie roasts with all the veg from our own garden.

Discovered we actually had a kitchen table under all that mess.

Love this picture Laney drew of me in my car.

Crazy house

2009-12-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

OK, so I know I have been slack. My Mum, blogging friends, old friends in Melbourne and anyone else who I see tells me I "really should update" my blog. I realise I have been slack, and I apologise wholeheartedly. Just to let you all know what has been holding me up - it's this little thing called Thaw. My, how I would like to swear as I write this, but I am just not that rude. OK, so maybe I would if this was verbal, but I just can't bear to write it. This issue was a.. well... hard one. We left lots of things to the last minute, and consequently had a rough couple of weeks leading up to the print deadline. There were temper tantrums from the adults instead of the children, there was lots of wine consumed, and a lot of late nights and restless sleeps. But in the end we got it done, and came out the other end with a magazine. And I think it looks pretty good, just quietly. I promise I will post more regularly now.

Tia loves that tinsel

No real tree for us. First we have to put it together.

Our little backyard is an awesome oasis now. So green and now with a table and chairs under cover.

This is where we have hung out every night since Ro put the roof on the pergola, and we got our second-hand table and chairs.

The kitchen table represents the last few days well. Laney's birthday presents and thaw orders ready for the post.It's been a crazy balancing act.

A special day on our advent calendar. Our beautiful Laney's 4th birthday.

Anne of Green Gables

2009-11-12T19:51:00.000-08:00

I have been watching this classic mini-series with Laney and as a mum I think I even appreciate the little red-headed girl even more than I did when I was a little girl myself. She is feisty and sticks up for herself, is honest, imaginative and clever. I just love it. The characters are just so good, and I love the idea of having many "kindred spirits" come into your life.

OK, so I also had a thing for Gilbert.

This is just before she breaks her slate over Gilberts head, I think. Love that bit!

Busy again...

2009-11-09T20:03:00.000-08:00

I have been taking photos lately, so that I can show you all what I have been doing, without having to write much. I much prefer saying it with pictures. (Thanks to Pete for some of the family shots.)

We bought Laney new bathers recently, so we had to model them. Here's serious....

Here is excited...

We've done a bit of drawing...

Picnic-ing...

Catching up with family for important celebrations....

The happy couple talked about wedding plans...

We enjoyed the weather...

by having bbq's, and eating sausages in bread...

and now the restrictions have loosened, even watered the garden with a (shock, horror) hose!

Look at the gorgeous rewards Ro's hard work in reaping...

I have even been experimenting in preparation for the silly season...

My blanket will be ready, just in time for Summer. Oh well.

Health update

2009-11-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

Man, it is hard to be disciplined when you go down to the beach for a break. The beer and fish 'n' chips were calling to me. I was very well behaved considering the temptations around me, and have still managed to maintain the 4 kilo weightloss that I have achieved so far on this new regime. But I certainly didn't lose any weight while we were down there.

Had a wonderful time playing in the sand with the girls in Apollo Bay, where we stayed for just two nights. Just what the doctor ordered for all of us. We couldn't get the smile off Helena's face. (Not that you would want to really.)

Am getting around as much as possible by foot and by my fabulous old Malvern Star. (Love my new basket. It fits quite a bit in there.) Let's hope the weight keeps coming off.

Hope you are enjoying the sunshine as much as me.

Spring is in the air

2009-10-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

What a glorious day it is outside. I have just been for a walk, by myself, to do some errands, and felt an extra spring in my step as I enjoyed the sunshine! Laney and I have our new Summer dresses on - Laney's cost a whole $1, at the church fete this weekend.

On the weekend we had another wonderful time. One of the things we did was go to a friend, Sarah's, birthday party at Plaster Funhouse, which is now a feature in the garden. And we rearranged all the books on the bookshelves since we had purchased a lot more lately. Fun, fun fun.

Oh and the diet is going well so far. Not feeling so hungry all the time like I was in the beginning.

Just have to show off how my blanket is going. Having fun.

Laney in her new dress

The books, during the chaos.

The bookshelves after the reshuffle.

The view out the kitchen window this afternoon. So nice! All we need now is the grapes to grow
over the pergola, and a long table and chairs for underneath. I'm commissioning my dad to make
them from recycled timber.

Time to get serious

2009-10-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

I am embarking on a health regime!

OK, so I have to put this out there, much like the Magda Szubanski's and Julia Morris' of the world, because once you announce it to people, you have to stick to it, so that you don't look like a big loser. Well, actually a Biggest Loser is probably what I want to look like, but then you get the picture.

I don't want to lose a HEAP of weight, but just get more healthy, and fit. When I had my first bub, I lost all the (10 kg) weight that I put on, in a matter of 6 weeks (miraculously), so I just went to town when I was pregnant the second time. Big mistake! Tia is already 1, and I have still only lost 10 of the enormous 18 kgs that I put on with her pregnancy.

So here it is. I am going to do it. You just watch me. I have to. (I really want to buy new clothes, and refuse to buy them for my current size!)

Could totally see myself wearing something like this, this Summer. How pretty is it!?

From the Sartorialist

Craft, friends, family - fun!

2009-10-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

What a week I've had. It's just been filled with good stuff, and I really have enjoyed it. Thursday last week was craft night, and it was at my place this time. What a fun night we all had. Rohan decided to join us all, and he almost became a new member - thankfully I reminded him that he couldn't join, because I need him to stay at home on craft nights and look after the girls. Phew! Was great to see all the girls, and talk about craft, babies, crocheted penises and all the usual stuff.

Friday night - friends, wine, fun.

Saturday - walk and lunch at the pub with my beautiful girls in the sunshine, while Ro photographed a wedding.

Sunday - Just the four of us. Walk to cafe for brekky. Drive to Daylesford for market. Drive to Hepburn for lunch/picnic/wine/play/ on the grass at Lavendula.

How much fun!

Laney hasn't learnt how to cuddle gently yet. "She's just so cute!"she says.

Tia is randomly standing up and having little "Ta-da" moments - not walking yet though.

Laney is obsessing about her upcoming birthday and Christmas, and marking things she wants in catalogues with a "x"

Tia has just discovered that the baby in the mirror is actually her.

Just love this shopping list that Laney has been working on.

Really enjoying the crocheting. Just need more patterns.

Motherhood

2009-10-01T20:11:00.001-07:00

Been thinking about motherhood a bit lately. It can be so exhausting at times, but it is also the biggest source of joy in my life. I adore my littlies, and they continue to amaze me on a daily basis. I think that the fact that my other half posted this on his blog the other day, is also one of the reasons I have been thinking about motherhood. That, and talking to a good friend the other day about it.

I don't really think Rohan had any real idea of what he or I were into, when we became pregnant for the first time. He was inspired to take this photo of me when Helena was about 18 months old. It was a little homage to mothers taking care of their family, without complaint. We are mums, cleaners, cooks, lovers, friends and more.

Respect, to all you mums out there. And to my mum, love you!

Relaxation at last

2009-09-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Crochet attempts 1 + 2

And 3.

After a big weekend, Laney was in bed by 6.30 Sunday night.

You can tell I've been relaxing this weekend. Look at my crocheting achievements!

I have had the best weekend. It wouldn't have been possible without the fabulous Louisa and Sarah, babysitting our girls. Thank-you gorgeous girls.

For more details just check Ro's blog. Spa was splendiferous. So relaxing. Just a shame that my big girl was sick when we got home. Went to doc's today, and she is ok.

Feeling great. x

Backyard bliss

2009-09-13T21:37:00.001-07:00

What a weekend. There was some sunshine for a change and we all got outdoors. Ro got busy in the backyard and completely changed the look of it, by rendering the back wall which is the neighbours brick shed. It looks completely different now. Instead of seeing a grey drab wall, there is colour. It will look even better when there are plants growing up and around it.

Stay tuned for more photo's when he builds the next part. I was going to tell you what we plan, but then it might spoil the surprise mightn't it ;-)

This is the garden on Saturday morning, looking out my kitchen window

This is the garden this morning

This is what the backyard looked like when we bought the house. A lot of concrete and a lot of wasted space.

This is the backyard today, with heaps of indigenous plants, vegies and fruit trees.
Laney added her special touch. A picture of Daddy working in the garden.

A closer view

Fathers Day

2009-09-11T21:42:00.000-07:00

Even though Rohan said he didn't want anything for Fathers Day this year, as he never really fusses about these days, I insisted on organising him a special gift. He loved his handmade gift that Helena made him at kinder, and said that it was all that he needed, but I felt the need to get something myself too. So I sneakily asked my gorgeous and talented friend Lou to draw him a picture of our girls, to surprise him. She created such beautiful pictures, and when Rohan got them, he got all emotional and overwhelmed. It was a lovely moment. So I thought I would share them with you...

B@#tch

2009-08-26T15:59:00.000-07:00

This morning I was called a "bitch" by my 3 year old. And before you all gasp at how terrible she is, I have to tell you it was definitely the first time she has ever said it. You should have seen the look on her face when she registered from my reaction that it was obviously not a word she should have said. It was actually very funny. It all started when her Dad joked with her that I was a "silly billy" or something to that effect. She then whispered to him that "no, she is a bitch". (Oh, I'm giggling as I write this). Then (when he stopped laughing) and I said, quite seriously, that it was not a nice way to describe anyone, and that she really shouldn't use it the word, she began to get all misty eyed, and hugged me and told me she was sorry and loved me. I had to tell her how funny it was to hear her say it, and I knew she didn't realise what it meant, so that she didn't burst into tears. Gosh they're precious little things at this age. Let's face it, I am sure she will be calling me that behind my back in about 10 years or so, but in the meantime, I will enjoy my sensitive little angel.

Here's the little angel in her cubby. Four poster beds are the best for cubbies!

Weekend fun

2009-08-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

I have had such a great weekend that I don't even mind that it's Monday. We finally got the magazine off to the printers, so the stress in the house has just left the building. We had friends over all weekend. Friday night Lou came over with her gorgeous girl, so Laney had a ball playing while we adults got to chat.

On Saturday one of my best and oldest friends, Jules, came to visit with her boyfriend (the lovely David). She and I have been friends since we were 15. She is the one who I got drunk with for the first time, who I have gone on a million camping trips, music festivals, big nights out, sleepovers with. We spent the night getting updated on all the important details in each others lives, and reminiscing about the silly things we've done in the past. The boys listened to records on the old Astor turntable and we didn't stop to take a breath. What a great way to spend an evening.

The next morning we went out for brekky, which we haven't done in ages, and then caught up with another friend, Steph, in the afternoon. It's so nice to spend the weekend with friends.

Hope you had a good one.
Kim

Laney and I had to bake cupcakes to finish off such a good weekend.

Our little Tia just smiled most of the weekend.

We painted a section of the study wall with blackboard paint. Can't wait to buy some chalk.

My life in photos

2009-08-19T03:24:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a lot of photos lately, so thought I would show you what's going on in my life visually for a change. They don't compare to Rohan's photos but, meh... what can you do?

"Why did you stop tapping at this, Mum?"

"I think I made a mess Mum"

Chaos!

Kids tell it how they see it.

2009-08-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

I just got dressed and asked my big girl casually how my shirt looks. Her response was "ummmm... it's ok, maybe you should roll your sleeves up?" "Really?" I ask. "Yeah, 'cause it looks a bit dorky." Laughter ensued.

Kim

Soldiering on

2009-08-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling quite horrible lately. Strep throat is so nasty. Ro describes it as swallowing razor blades, but I liken it to the feeling of having a marble covered in velcro in the back of your throat so that each time you swallow, your tonsils squeeze it, and get ripped apart. It doesn't really matter how you describe it, it doesn't make it any easier to cope with. Ro took the wine approach at night, to make him feel better. I was too much of a baby, and found that swallowing wine hurt too much, and soon gave up on that quick fix. I chose to alternate between paracetamol and nurofen.

It's hard being sick when you have small kids. Once they are three/four you can kind of leave them to their own devices, but an 11 month old actually needs a lot of looking after. And unfortunately a 3 year old just isn't responsible enough to look after their baby sister for you - no matter how much they try and tell you they are. So you really need to just soldier on and take a rest when you get the chance. Thursday morning it started and I am happy to say that after a visit to the docs and some antibiotics, I am now feeling quite human again.

I managed to drag my sorry bum out for a crafty gathering on Thursday night with some lovely talented girls and boy. Felt comfortable with them very quickly, which doesn't happen so often, so was a very nice night. It's great to meet like-minded people, who are down to earth and are happy to talk about their childhoods and what's important in their lives. The only down part for the night, was that since my throat was so sore I didn't get to taste all the fabulous food they had on offer.

Thanks to all those involved the other night. Looking forward to seeing you all in a couple of weeks.

Thawing out

2009-08-12T17:51:00.001-07:00

Since we have moved into the new place, Ro and I are enjoying the fact that we can get into our little shared office with ease, of an evening. Previously we shared an office with Tia, who was trying to sleep in there at night (obviously), so we couldn't really make a lot of noise, let alone speak to each other much. Now we get in there and get stuff done - turning to ask each other's opinion from time to time, and generally enjoying the productivity of it all. I honestly don't know how we managed before.

I am starting to get a bit excited about going to print next week. Although it tends to be a little chaotic at this stage of production, it's also great being able to see how pretty the pages look all laid out. The fashion shoot was last weekend, so the middle 8 pages look fantastic right now, so it's hard not to get excited. (Check out some of the teaser shots on Ro's and Steph's blogs.) I can't wait to see our baby in print. Here's hoping we can finalise everything in time.

Cheers,
Kim

Pleasant Market Stall

2009-07-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

The plan yesterday, was to see if we could sell some magazines at the Pleasant Street Market. The answer is a resounding "no". We didn't sell many at all!

The exciting thing though, was that I roped my friend Louisa into coming along and sharing the stall with me, and selling some of her gorgeous illustrations which she has printed on cards. And she had a lot more success than I did. I am so pleased for her. This is the start of something big for her, I am sure. Mark my words.

What would we do without friends?

2009-07-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I received a message from a friend, who was going to pop over for a coffee in the afternoon, and I mentioned in my message back that I was feeling a little flat. I said I was looking forward to seeing her smiling face, as this is exactly how I felt. And what do you know, when she arrived, I not only saw her smiling face, but a lovely bunch of flowers (with some chockie) that she bought on her way over, to cheer me up. What a gal!

The funny thing is, that I called her today, and asked if she would mind if I picked up her little girl after school today, for playdate with Laney (who has been asking for one), and she was pleased to hear from me, because she needed a babysitter this afternoon, due to a last minute meeting she has to attend. Doesn't it feel great when you can rely on a friend, and know that they can rely on you too. What would we do without them, huh!? I honestly don't know.

I get a lot of emails forwarded to me, about friendships, and all the reasons we should appreciate them. But I think it's when stuff like this happens, or after a wonderful weekend spent with friends having laughs, that you feel it the most. So to all my friends, old and new - life wouldn't be the same without you, thanks!

And thank-you for the flowers, Lou!

Kim x

Loving my kitchen

2009-07-20T05:14:00.000-07:00

I love this little nook in the kitchen.

We have a garden

2009-07-16T16:28:00.001-07:00

I know it has been forever since we posted anything, but it has just been a little chaotic here. I know that may seem weird, since we have finally settled in, and stopped the major reno's, but now we have to get back into work. Due to the reno's, and putting everything else on hold, I have had so much thaw stuff to get organised these last couple of weeks. And Ro has all his thaw stuff, photographic jobs, as well as a fulltime job to get back into. I am happy to report, though, that we are starting to get back into our routine. Ro and I have actually been getting up BEFORE the girls, and getting organised in the mornings. Ro has even been walking the dog in the mornings, and I am (pretty much) on top of the housework. And I even think thaw will go to print on time - haven't missed a dealine yet, but it always feels like we might.

On the weekends, Ro has been really enjoying getting out into the garden when he can, and he now has so much stuff planted. Before long we will actually have an established garden. It is looking so good. I am glad at least one of us in a green thumb. Here are some pics, which don't really do it justice.

Terracotta pots are a favourite of ours.

This Rosemary will provide a cute little hedge along the front path.

Lots of colourful bulbs will pop up soon, to surround this pathway.

Our back shed will one day be covered in these creeping beauties.

Vegies in the beds, and fruit trees along the fence... yum.

Indigenous Poa grow along the path, and other natives surround our Olive tree.

Our girls

2009-07-05T16:31:00.000-07:00

People often say to me that they wished they lived with a photographer, so that they always had someone who knows what they are doing to capture their special moments on film. But what they don't realise is that a photographer is like a plumber or carpenter - the last job they do is the one at home. I have been asking Ro to take some nice photos of the girls for a long time, and he mentioned he would take some this weekend gone. Well, he hasn't taken them. So I had to try and take some myself. They don't compare to his, but at least I have some. Our little Tia started crawling this week, and Helena is just becoming all "big girl" on me. She amazes me with the things that come out of her mouth. "Mum, can you please help me? I'm fuggling (struggling)". They are my little treasures.

Oh, and I must say, that I did realise why he takes so many photos of the house stuff, and not the kids. The house stays still!

Helena

Tia

New family member

2009-07-05T16:21:00.000-07:00

No, I am not pregnant or anything. We have just been given a beautiful kitten (free to a good home). He is a big kitten, as he is 6 months old, but he still behaves like one. Very playful. He has a lovely temperament, and is very well house-trained. (Cats are much easier that way, than dogs.) The kids love him. And he and Peggy are having fun together already. Welcome to the family, Bender.

The kids are happy

2009-07-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

I didn't mention in my earlier post that the kids are also obviously starting to feel more settled too. Both the girls went a little crazy as the move grew closer, and were really feeling odd about the move, I think. Tia stopped sleeping through the night, and started waking a few times each night. Laney started clinging to mummy, and even started crying when I dropped her at kinder. Apparently this is all normal behaviour, according to everyone I speak to, but that doesn't make it any easier. I am happy to say, though, that they are starting to show signs of recovery from the upheaval.

I think that the fact that I am able to enjoy days of fun domesticity helps. Laney has been dying to make a cake with me, and yesterday she and I made a low-fat chocolate orange cake. And to keep the big kid in the family happy I cooked a clay pot chicken dinner for me and Ro. It was nice to spend the afternoon in the kitchen. I missed that kind of thing while we were busy renovating. Too many toasted sandwiches, eggs on toast and take-away.

It's nice to feel settled again.

Kim x

Tia is enjoying the new floors, you can really slide around on floorboards.

How sweet it is...

2009-06-30T17:34:00.000-07:00

It's lovely to finally be living in the house that we have been imagining for so long. We have been driving everybody quite crazy, I'm sure, with all the plans we discuss with them, any chance we can. But we have had a very clear vision of what we would do with our "blank canvass" of a place, and now it feels like we have what we have been waiting for. I have to say that I am quite proud of the shelving in the living room. Not only because it was such a big job, and it has transformed the whole room, but because this is the only project where I have taken control and Ro hasn't really been involved. With all the stuff he has done to the place before we moved in, I was dying to be able to get my hands dirty. And finally I have.

The plans were drawn up a few weeks ago. The tradesman has come and built them to my plans. And I (along with the help of Lynne, yet again!) have sanded them, filled the gaps and painted them white. The end result, with all of our "stuff" in them, is quite a contrast from the blank white wall we had before.

It was so much fun filling the shelves on the weekend. Memories of overseas trips, daytrips to antique shops, childhood shenanigans and adventures all came flooding back as we unpacked boxes of photo albums, report cards, letters, and so many books and trinkets. For those of you wondering - "La Dolce Vita" (on our shelves) means "the Sweet Life" in Italian, and after spending a month there a couple of years back, we felt well aquainted with the phrase, and often feel very lucky to have the life we have, so we think it's a nice reminder.

I am working on more photo's for the blog. Shame I'm not the photographer that Rohan is. Might have to wait for him to take them.

Kim x

You can see how much the shelves look like my plans...

The bookshelf wall unit thing

2009-06-30T04:44:00.000-07:00

Finally we have a wall of sturdy shelves built properly, and to our specs. It's the first time I think we've ever done anything like this. And to be honest, even with the mixed reactions we are so happy with the end result. A few photos which don't really do it justice, it looks better in the flesh, with it full of all our crap!

How does anything get done?

2009-06-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't know how we get anything done in this house. This morning was fairly typical, and when I was just thinking about it, I felt the need to share the details. First I had to prepare three separate breakfasts (nobody eats the same thing in this house), iron shirts, hang out washing, take out rubbish. Then I had to deal with the spilled full glass of chockie milk that ended up on two chairs, the table, the fridge and the floor. Then there is the tradie who turned up to finish building our shelves in the living room, and keeps asking me to come into the room to see "How's this looking, boss?" (At least he is a nice man, and is doing a great job). Oh, and did I mention the giant framed picture that we had moved temporarily into Laney's room (while the tradie is here) that she knocked over, and smashed into millions of tiny pieces of glass?? It's absolute chaos here. I think you are getting the picture.

Even though I am desperately trying to get ready for the Thaw production meeting tonight, and not having any success at all, there are little things that lift my mood. The highlight of the day has to be when I had both the girls on my knee earlier (because they both needed mummy cuddles at the same time), whilst Laney told us a story about two mice, who got lost in the forest, met friendly wolves, witches and took elephant rides, and lived (thankfully!) "happily ever after". It may be chaos, but it IS worth it.

Kim x

Oh, and just to let you know how the reno's are going, Ro has been busy in the garden, the shelves will be painted tomorrow, and my kitchen is nearly finished. Will post some photo's shortly.

la magnífica entrada

2009-06-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is the historic door from Loretto Convent in Ballarat, thanks to my lovely Mum for the photos and the resto work. I got word last night that Lynne has put the final coat on the front door....oh yeah!

Hopefully this weekend, we might hang the door (fingers crossed it fits) and dispose of that ghastly 'security' door that serves absolutely no purpose what so ever other than to make our entrance look more mish mash.

Egads it's a Kitchen!!!!

2009-06-16T00:39:00.000-07:00

The kitchen is looking a little different but still has a long way to go, at least it's no longer 'POO Brown'!

We need to put the final coat on the walls, and paint the bench tiles white, clean the masking tape off the windows, paint the skirting boards, fit out the pantry, install more internal shelves in the upper cupboards, and make the blackboard wall. Just ad it to the list of work still to be done around the house. It's enjoyable, but difficult with the kids and me being back at work. The place is amazingly functional when you can find it underneath the random power tools and renovating paraphernalia.

Eventually we'll be done, and it doesn't really fuss us, it's our little place and that alone brings a smile to our respective faces.

In the beginning....

Progress, well snippets anyway

2009-06-16T00:09:00.000-07:00

We can't wait to have at least ONE room totally finished but it seems like little unexpected things keep popping up.....and of course the cost of things is never what you expect. All the research you do seems to go down the drain. But there is progress, and we keep doing a little more each day.

One of the best things of this reno project has been the excuse for me to hire a selection of power tools that usually reside in the hands of 'real men' in high visibility apparel. I ditched the high viz but I did hire a Jackhammer on the weekend and took out 4 meters of unwanted concrete. Now the photos make the backyard look like a bomb site BUT with the concrete gone (sorry Dad) I can now start the landscaping and planting. Then the yard will completely change from a barren rental wasteland into a productive food bowl.

The hallway entrance is almost done, with the old green factory lamp shade installed and the antique coat rack I've been dragging from one rental to another is finally installed into the wall. Lovely Lynne (aka Mum) sourced a wonderful four panel front door from an antique supplier and it's actually a door from the old convent just up the street, it's an oldie and will replace the dicey glass front door which is horrid to say the least. The old door is in the final stages of restoration, I'm hoping Mum took photos so I can show you the work that she's put into it.

Here's a few pic's to give you an update.

sneak peak

2009-06-09T03:29:00.000-07:00

This not a true before and after because we haven't actually finished the tiling (this weekends project) but here is a sneaky shot to give you a little idea of what the fire place now looks like with our mantle piece. Just like the dentist using OralB we can't actually show his face.

Thanks to Pete, Lynne and Tone for their help on this one.

Feral before hand

The almost there gas fire

Colour.....Culture.....Love

2009-06-09T03:08:00.000-07:00

To top off five weeks of renovating the house I spent my last weekend at a Hindu wedding for a client. I've never been to an Indian wedding, and I feel very privileged to have been chosen. I got an insight to another world. The family was so nice and welcoming, the outfits and bling, like OMG! But the best part about it was that is was absolute chaos. Not like the normal 20min same same that I've had for the last four years, but real chaos. The Hindu priest spoke a different dialect, there were regional differences in the ceremony, it was just brilliant to watch. Loved every minute of it.

Busy, busy, busy...

2009-06-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Just a note to let you know that we are still busy doing stuff at the house, and haven't forgotten about the blog. There are just a few little added touchs that are needed in a few of the rooms, before we will be happy take some "after" shots. Want to get them done, before we do.

Ro is back at work today, so he was feeling a little sad to leave this morning. And although I don't have a workplace to go to (other than our home office) I have to get back into thaw stuff. It's nice to have an office, now, though. We are really starting to enjoy our new home.

Will make sure we take some photo's of our progress this week.

Kim

Helena and Peggy enjoying the warmth of our new heater.

Moving is such a joy!

2009-05-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well not really, but thankfully we are completely out of the old house and into the new house....'the new-old house'. It's been a big last few days, very exhausting, emotionally challenging and difficult on the kids. But at the end of our third day in, there are little signs among the chaos that look and feel a little bit like home.

Thanks again for anyone and everyone that helped out with the stage one reno's, especially Mum, Dad, Tone, Lou, Soph, Kirsten, Chad, Bec, Cath and who ever invented the Visa Card.

Ro

Stage one - FINISHED!!!! (almost)

2009-05-27T00:45:00.000-07:00

Today was my last day finishing off the last coat on the floors, three in all and it's starting to look sharp.

We have a shed installed (thanks Tone) and all the rubbish has been removed. Lovely.

I even installed the last set of blinds in the kitchen and cleaned the kitchen. We have a home.

Tomorrow (fingers crossed) we will have the new gas heater installed and the cable installed.

Friday we move in.

A few last minute jobs, of knocking out the love heart tiles under the heater, and handing the sanding after each coat of floor juice.

On my knees again. I have sores on my knees.

Bye Bye Love hearts!
My 'No Women allowed' Shed
I'm a messy worker.

Floors Floors Floors!!!

2009-05-25T11:26:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been...OH such a joy! It's a feeling that hangs somewhere on the balance of pure indulgent happiness and on the other less glamorous side, psychotic episodes of torment.

This is the story of how I approached phase three of my cunning plan of renovations, which I have coined....'Domination of the Floors'.

Phases 1: Show No Quarter, Fill the Gaps.

The first week of reno was all about filling in the holes and the cracks, 36 tubes of no more gaps now hold our house in place. The places was 'holier' than the Vatican. Up and down the ladder, 12" ceilings mind you. What a uplifting process it was. When I think about that job my mind drifts off....I'm running through a field of long grass and flowers, hair blowing in the wind, stopping to gently caress and cuddle soft little bunnies and other woodland creatures......then I go postal.

Phases 2: White is the New Black

The second week was all about paint. Some of it actually got on the walls the rest on me. Did I mention white?

Phase 3: Domination of the Floors

First I had to rip up all the carpet in the house, the dust, the sand. No matter how many times I wash I still feel dirty. What was revealed was hardwood floors....oh yeah, not chip board. But they were almost black. Why, because house's of this era used to get oiled to preserve them. I'll talk more on this sensitive issue later.

The next job was to bang down nails. Every nail in the house needed to be banged in with a mallet and nail punch. And not just a tap, these brutes need to go in over an inch, it's an Imperial house not metric ;-) and this requires a lot of yakka. Oh Joy! The problem is that because the house is so old there was nails from all sorts of different things that had happened in the house. Floor rugs had been nailed down, carpets nailed in, and generally nails for nails sake. I'm sure at some stage in the 1940's there was a family of 'Nail Enthusiasts' living in the house, that to amuse themselves on weekends they would gather in the lounge room and bang in nails for a good time. But because the floor was 'black' from years of oil etc I couldn't actually see all the nails. More on this later.

Next job was to putty fill all the holes made by driving in the nails. Thousands of holes. On my knees, or on all fours which ever hurt the least. Pretty picture eh?

I'm drawing closer to the fun part. The power tools! ARH ARHG

I hired a belt sander and disc edger, both beautiful machines. Shiny and silver and smooth and POWERFUL! They usually make light work of floorboard sanding, however due to the fact that our floors were covered in black muck they just baked the oil into hundreds of sanding belts and discs, and at $9.00 a belt it was looking pricey.

In any case a job that should have taken one day took three.

I've finished now and as a reward Kim is sending me off for a few days rest at Happy Valley Psychiatric Retreat.

HERE'S THE RUB.......

It was looking like an expensive job, what with all the burnt out sanding belts and discs and the 2 extra day's hire of the machines. But when Kim took all the hire gear and the remaining sanding belts back to 'XXXXX' Hardware store, she must have got served by some pimple faced twit that struggled with the buttons and paperwork required, which resulted in them saying something along the lines of 'It's a bit too difficult, how about we reimburse you for the unused sanding belts and don't worry about the extra days hire'.

Which means instead of paying THEM they paid US and didn't charge us for the two extra days hire. Gold!

(Figure 1: Me jumping for joy after finishing sanding)