21st PARTY INVITES

Jess here, just needing addresses, would love as many of the family to come to my 21st, the more the merrier its the 4th oct (long weekend), sending invites out now, some are already in the mail.

my email is jesstully@hotmail.com or text eme your addresses ASAP 0438256602

i need:
Nath's, Mandy's, cec and rays, meg's, wendy's, toni's, sara's plus any others, if you want to come out to bourke to catch up send me your POSTAL ADDRESS'S ASAP!!!!
thanks heaps, lisa, jane, stewart, belinda yours are already in the mail.

all the family is well talk to you soon
jess xoxox
xx

Murwillumbah signing in

Hello everyone,
A quick note to say hello. Just like everyone else very busy here. Our life at the moment is revolving around Sebastian, He did a UMAT exam today and begins his trial H.S.C exam on monday. UMAT is a national exam to do medicine it is only part of the whole process. He has to get an interview as well as getting the marks in UMAT and the H.S.C. There are very limited places for undergraduate medicine. It is prefered for students to do it post grad. He feels after today he will be doing it post grad he did not like it. I am a little bit of a fatalist and think what ever is meant to be will be and if he is meant to get it he will.
So all you prayers' out there pray for him.
Every one is well, stewart is on the big diet he is great lisa and Ron are good and all my clan are absolutely beautiful and wonderful.
Asha is back at UNI now her leg is healing it is still in a big boot cast however, the Doctor feels it should come off in the next two weeks.
Despite the cast she still managed to pick up a fellow at the races one of Ronnie and Lisa's ex students. We couldn't stop laughing she forgot all her dresses for the races, she still managed to pull something together had a great day won and picked a bloke up. (mind you the bloke is the premier or Q.L.D's nephew)
Lisa was talking to me the other day and said OOOH I don't think I like it when I know the person !!!!!!!!!!!
Have to go will get back on later, love to every one Happy birthday Belinda for the 29th. (getting closer to the big 50!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Love to every one Jane xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Josh, Michaila, Elisa, June / 08

This is for Sara. You asked for a photo of Charlottes' fam.  I tried to upload one with Charlotte & Mike, but got the wrong one. Will try again next post. Dear family:

I am SO excited, sleep wont come tonight, I'm sure. Today, I received the DVD that Terese put together & of course, had to see it NOW. It was better than everyone had said. I rang Mo, but of course, she is not home. Surprise. However, I asked her to ring me when she gets home. What a wonderful record of Mrs. Junies' life, & family. She looked SO happy, & I'm sure she felt as happy as she looked. A wonderful night. I didn't recognize Russ###. (Don't tell him or Nath##). I'm back on a high again. I tried to ring Bernice to tell her it had arrived, & of course, had been SEEN already. But she too, was out. No news here, same old, same old, clean, church, Lions, M. on W., etc. etc. Had a trip to Calgary, & straight down to Whitefish. Back last Sunday.Have "hearing" & "eye" appointments on 31st., then down to Whitefish again for a few days, (garden I HOPE). Will need to go back to Calgary by then, as Charlotte has tickets to Fiddler on the Roof,

for the girls, on 7th. Aug. We have a 70th & 90th birthday on 9th., then our annual cricket is on 10th. Have spent the last few days "getting organized" for cricket with Moira. Have lunch on Wed., with Monica, who is WAY worse off than I am.  After the 10th, I'm afeared that I will have to settle down to do some serious thinking about getting some work done here. Church garden has been taking up most of my spare time. I am going to "make the garden smaller" this Autumn, to lighten the load for next year. I enjoy doing the families' gardens, but the soil at the church, & the lawns, are in a very poor condition, so is a chore rather than a pleasure. O. K.

already, I'll quit complaining & get back to thinking of the DVD, much more fun##.

Sara, I don't know how you are going to fit into a SMALLER house?? Good luck with the move.

I'm thinking that Customs have kept the leather mitt, as Mo & I posted our separate parcels

on the same day, so they should have arrived relatively close together. "Gotta go". Talk soon. Love to ALL the family. I'll ring Mrs. Junie tomorrow, also Bernice. We want to hear from some of the young'ens, so off the couch with you all, & get to the computers. It's the only nourishment (soul) that Mo & I get.  A BIG than thank you, to Terese for a fabulous job of the DVD. Love Kell

No, I'm still here

I'm still here, but it's only a few hours since my last post. Oh the things I can do in a few hours, not much productivness mind you. I've ordered the dishwasher and picked up 10 more boxes for packaging.

Here's the sore part. I pulled 4 very old matchbox cars from my dresser this morning, meaning to wash them up and put them on ebay. 2 old english taxi cads, a rolls royce and a very very old convertable something. 2 times I put water on the stove to boil to wash them in and two times I've boiled ther pot dry (I was on this thing!). So I put some SARD in the pot to try to soak the burn off it then rinsed and repeated but this time put the cars in to soak. Wasn't happening quick enough so I lit the stove then went to my room for something. Wasn't long though when I remembered the pot was on the stove so I came out to check it. The flames were only a foot high so I threw a tea towel over the pot (secretly hoping that wouldn't catch alight). The flames died and I took the lid off the pot to ashes floating threw the air and there were my four, what would have been very profitable cars, a silvery slop in the bottom of the pot. A good pot too mind you. I just checked on the put, I'd put it in the sink with cold water. Looks like I either re-heat it and pour the cars out or just hoik the lot to the bin. The latter I think. I daren't look on ebay for comparissons, please no-one else do it or tell me either...

Oh well, that's 4 less things I have to worry bout selling...

Ciao, again.

Sara xxxxx

Hopefully the last post from Roselands...

STILL i'm the only one here, Is everyone alright? Well, this might be my last log-on for a few weeks b/c we hope to be in the other house by this w/e. Tony's cactus today, still in bed. I have heaps to do but will have to take my little terror with me and she fairly gives me curry when we're out. Has to be done so haven't a choice.

Must get to it. Hope all are well and I'll get back on when I can. Already there's tension in the house and we're not even in it!

Sara, XXXXX

SALUTATIONS from Sara!

Morn'n all, it's 8am and I have the kids dressed and eating breaky before the church run but I'm still in my jammies and slippies. Have an hour and a half so I'll be right, once I decide what to wear...

Well we have "Bernice Brezzing In, Anna Bay Antics" and "Greetings from Grafton" so I thought I'd add my own little ditto :oP. Have some more lined up but they won't kick in for another week or so.

Spent yesterday up at the house, emptying and re-arranging. Came home at 3pm and I thought Tony would be cactus but he didn't go to sleep 'til 10'ish. He's stressing about the move. The house is half the size of this one and we barely squeeze in here. I've booked a council clean-up for Tuesday. They don't allow rubbish to be put out on the street until the night before but that aint gonna happen so we'll put it all out this arv' and give the tip rats a chance to come and take what they want (I'm a tip rat too but there's not much here I can keep).

Tony will get up soon, maybe, then go hire a trailer then call Marc to come down and help him load up. "Good luck" I told him but he reckons he'll get him moving. When we went to the house yesterday Tony opened every lock on the door, there are three and pushed and banged but couldn't get in so he walked up the drive, by Marcs window to try to open the back gate. By the cursing that went on I realised he couldn't get in there either so he got the mobile out and phoned Marc. Yes, he was there so came and opened the door.

Tony's up so I'd best roll and get us to church so he can start doing his stuff here. Aunt Mona, I have your mitten on and it fits well over all the other gloves. Aunty Kell, customs may be holding yours or they may arrive tomorrow. Thank you.

Better go. Love to all,
Sara xxxxx

I love the rain!

It's raining, wish it were pouring. I love the rain and don't mind how long it lasts. It's all concrete in the city so doesn't bother me with any mess.

Aunt Mona, I received your mitten yesterday, thank you very much. I tried very hard to logon to the blog with Tony's laptop from bed last night but it just wasn't working. I've told him before that it's too old and full of rubbish. Yes, the mit' is a bit roomy but is good to put over top of all the others I wear. It's also a 'right' but will wear into place in time. Thank you. I'm going to see the Doc' tomorrow to enquire of relief for the cold feeling/nerve pain or whatever it is. Taking Hokey also as he has what I thought was tinea between his big and second toe on the right foot but it has spread under all the toes and the arches of his feet are covered with tiny little bumps, like goose bumps. The same on top of his hands. My girlfriend says there's a viral thing that's called 'foot & mouth' that tends to spread in the younger age kids so may be that.

My cleaning lady is still away so the agency has sent a man round to do the house for me. The place is a dump with boxes everywhere and nowhere to store anything so I asked him to just make the beds up for me and vac the floors. I wasn't going to say anything as I didn't want to jinx myself (I don't believe in that but Tony does and prefers I not say anything)... Anyway, we ARE moving whether Marc is ready for it or not. I went there today, intent on re-arranging to save Tony some work on the weekend but although I had keys for all the locks the door wouldn't budge. I'll ask Tony to make sure Marc leaves the place enterable, is there such a word? He had moved into his parents room but kept his old room as his own little 'pad'. He reckoned he'd move back into his room this week but I doubt he's done it. All the rooms are the same size, so Tony & I in the front, both kids in the middle and Marc in his but he wants half the back room (office) also, as a dressing room. Initially I didn't give it much thought but told Tony there's no way. He can live out of 1 room like the rest of us. Oohh I could go on but as I told Meg, I won't...

I have to take heaps of photo's to put on Ebay to offload 'stuff' that's too good to toss but no room to keep. I shouldn't be sitting here dilly daddling but I'm surrounded by mounds of washing, clean and dirty, boxes and bags. It's difficult to know where to start. I have been very lazy of late and relying heavilly on the clothes drier. Makes it easier not having to climb up and down the back steps and dodge dog crap down there. Mum would love to come down but she is much more help to Aunty June and she enjoys being there with her too. Aunty June is so upbeat and doesn't complain at all. She amazes me.

Sounds like Tony is home with Hokey. He took Ange' to school with him to collect Hokey. She loves to go for a 'drive' and runs for the door if one should so much as look at it. She's a funny little possum and I think will be very bright. As with Hokey at this age she counts to ten and to thirty with assistance (alternate numbers). She knows all her farm animals and shapes. Getting around the colours, says 'thankyou' not 'ta' and 'you're welcome' but only Hokey and myself understand her completely.

I'd better go. Hope all are well and Jacob gets his computer back soon. Thank you Aunty Meg for baking Angel her birthday cake. She had a great time blowing out all the candles and playing with her cars.

Love to all,
Sara xxxxx

Hi from Pilot Mound

Good morning all. A very quick 'Hello ', I have no business sitting on my butt doing nothing when I have so much to do, but I have a quick question for Meg. Where did you take the photo of the windmill and tank? We should both buy shares, lots of shares, in Kleenex! I loved it!
Not much to say. I am having friends in for supper tonight and hope to cook little cornish hens on the rotisserie on the BBQ, but it is raining just now, so they may have to go in the oven. I have dessert (a MUST in most households, NOT in mine, except for visitors! Bill loves to have visitors!) all ready. Made a choc cake, wasn't happy with it, so made it into a Black Forrest dessert ! Will take the leftovers to the complex tomorrow afternoon...they will think they are getting treats, I wont tell them its leftovers!
I haven't talked to Kell in a few days, she is down at Kates, should be home tomorrow I think, so I will catch up then. Cec phoned just before she left, so she phoned me to bring me up to date. I am waiting to hear from her again to know when to phone June. I dont want to call her if she isn't feeling well. I think Meg said she had gone up town by herself last week, so had to be feeling OK then. I was happy to hear Peter had gone over to the coast to fish....not my favourite pass time, but each to his own! And it would do Pete good to get away for a day or two I am sure.
Best go. I have to take Smoko to the boys at the Complex at 3pm, need to get veg. ready, etc.
We plan to go to Pincher sometime in Sept. I dont know when, but told Bill we need to set a date, as the month is already filling up with committments. We may go on up North in Saskatchewan to have a look around on our way home, it is beautiful country, a lot like home, and we both love it. Must go. Love to all. Mona

Hi from Pilot Mound.

Anna Bay again!

Forgot to mention that I was sorry to miss out on seeing all the family who were out at Bourke when I was there, Meagan and Briony Bob and Trish and everyone else that was there!! Could have had a mini reunion while we were all there.Meg

Anna Bay

Hi there all,

Sorry you didn't get to post your photos Jacob before your dad took your computer away. I will post a couple on your behalf.xxx Yes, Jacob is back in NZ after a 3 week stint out here. It was wonderful having my big boy home but the time just flew by so quickly and before I knew it myself and the Kleenex company were at the airport last Saturday saying goodbye. I wont go into that bit. We packed in as much as we could while he was here, including a dolphin watch cruise, yes the blighters were out and chasing fish. Dinner at Hogs Breath for his 17th birthday, a trip up to Tea Gardens for a bit of a fish, (dolphins decided to surface and chased the fish away) didnt catch any and ended up having the famous warfside fish and chip cones. 5 delicious pieces of hoki and chips in paper folded in a cone shape. Go Kart racing at the indoor center over at Thornton, Jacob tried his hardest to beat the fastest lap time of the day, but fell short a bit. Next time mate. A trip out to Bourke to catch up with family, all are well and getting on with life out there. Tully came over to Newcastle to fish while I was out there AND mind you landed a very nice size flathead off the Swansea breakwall. Way to go, the old Jew fish is still alluding you Tully, you had better get back here and have another go. Greg went to Sydney and picked up Sari and little ones and they had a few days here with us then I took them Back to Sydney when I took Jacob to the airport. There is a lot more we would have liked to have done but it wasnt to be. Now I am back at work if you could call it that, and Marcus is at school. He had sports today--FISHING at Nelson Bay Breakwall. No luck. He has landed himself a weekend job at Bakers Delight at Nelson Bay on the weekends and school holidays and is very pleased with himself, plans on a new skateboard deck, car, etc etc. Oh yes and he is also trying out as a trolly boy over at the Salamander shops for after school work. He will be on a bigger wage than me.

We are still having a nice winter warm days mostly with the odd spell of gale force winds and showers. the shed got a bit too cold there for awhile and I had to wear a beanie to bed, most attractive but effective. Thanks Sari for the loan of the beanies.

Marcus and I went and saw the movie The Dark Knight with the deceased Heath Ledger, not a bad show I must say. Havn't seen Mumma Mia yet Bernice, but will make an effort to go to the cinema again soon. Aunty June is doing ok, she has finished her radiotherapy but starts her brachytherapy this Friday, a weekly session for the next 3 weeks. On Tuesday she had a blood transfusion which gave her a bit of a lift and she went into town yesterday by herself something she has not done in quite a while. Stay well Aunty June, we are all praying for you, stay strong.

Mum is still over at the Terrace with Aunty June for support and to help her out when she can. I think it is doing them both the world of good having each other to lean on.

Great photos Lisa looked like you all had a great time up there. Louth Races are on the weekend of the 8th August. Ronny I know you would just love to go out there its a great weekend and this is the 50th anniversary so its going to be bigger than Birdsville. Greg is going to go, I was thinking about it but have other plans in the making.

Well tea time is over, a chicken stir fry and preped to make spring rolls for tomorrow. Bath and then bed with a book. Love to all

Meg

New Zealand here

Hey everyone,

Just letting you all know im back in NZ.

I'v got a couple of photos to put on here and i hope you like them

bernice breezin In

Hi all , I have been working on this photo for days! Peter had said they did not have a "family photo with all of them in it So Meg sent me this photo of Liz and I cut,,copied, painted, tucked. etc etc Manually! As I don't know how to do it on computer, and this is what I come up with. I have enlarged and put on A4 photo paper for Peter and family and will mail it this week. my gift to them, I was going to put it in a lovely frame first and send but then I thought "It would be like sending ' Ice Cream to Mr Whippy', Peter could make a much nicer frame himself!! Hope you like it Tully's. Cheers.

Kell, yes thanks for the info on Canada, I did find Pincher Creek and Pilot mound I just put them on the internet, also white fish, got the run down on the towns totally, quiet interesting..Pilot mound sounds really quaint, friendly and safe. I have sent you The Laverty girls dvd on Junes 80th The one I have been raving about. You will love it. I sent it last week. I also sent one to Lisa she can copy for her family for me. also to trish and asked to give to Jenny and the tully's to copy. And Toni -lee can give to Meg to copy. ...Oh belinda I will be sending yours this week.

I just watched "Mamma Mia" it was a good light hearted Movie, Meryl street was great! and I do like the old ABBA songs to!! I watched"Bucket List" last week loved it so.

Megan it was nice to hear from you again, sad to hear about the Bourke orchards' closing down. Paula payton was back in Bourke for a few days and got lots of Oranges to take home and Stewart said he got a bag of them from her and they were so delicious.

Lisa ..the photos are great! god their lovely looking girls aren't they. Hope Asha didn't wear the Heels', Ha Yes Stewart was telling us about Jane's dream!! Good on her.

I was going to read the Blog letters before i started this and then I had trouble transferring this photo to where i wanted it to go so i could put it on the blog and had so much trouble..so i got way laid, and can't remember what else i wanted to say. So I will catch up on everyone next time.

meg when is jacob going home? we thought this weekend? did he. Hope he enjoyed his stay.

Well folkes I am off, my Team... South Syd Rabbitohs are about to run on so its Beer and footy time...catch ya later...bye now love Bernice xx

Racing!

Hello Family,

Last day of our holidays before heading off to work again tomorrow. Have had a great two weeks, busy with family and lots of fun. On Tuesday night Jane, Asha, Sebastian, Brydie and Jess ( family friend, Seb's age) arrived and the party began! We had lots of fun and laughs. Ronny and Zappa went to Puppy Pre-School just before the gang arrived. It was graduation night at pre-school and naturally Zappa was top of the class! Even has a certificate! ( I am deliberately going over the top with the pre-school thing - we are not that obsessed - yet!).

Wednesday was Ramornie Race Day, Grafton Cup on Thursday. Wednesday is fun to take a picnic, table and chairs etc. Thursday is too crowded to take a picnic so we always make Wednesday our day. Wednesday morning was a beauty salon at our place! Facials, treatments, hair straightening and make-up were all done for each other, very girly and Ronny stayed right away! Once we were all dolled up we headed out to the races - but not before we studied the form guide. Considering that none of us are serious betters, we did very well. The day was loads of fun. The best win of the day went to Jane - had a dream about two numbers and a colour - and it came in - a long shot, so it payed very well. Asha was betting very well that day too! Actually, I think we all came out in front in the end.

That night we then went out to dinner as it was a friend's birthday. Just such a fun day. the hardest part of the day was keeping the blokes away from Brydie and Asha - especially at the pub that night. The boys were like flies to honey. Asha could hold her own, but as Brydie is only 16 tomorrow, we were all out to shield her. Still, lots of laughs!

All headed home on Thursday morning and Ronny and I cleaned up. Ronny was about to start another job, and I said - lets go to the races! So, we dolled up again and went on our own. It was fun just hanging with Ronny and catching up with lots of old friends. Betting was not as lucky that day, but it did not latter. Did not lose much, all part of the fun of the day.

Will include a few race day shots.

deliberately not doing much today, easing back to work tomorrow.

Love to all,

Lisa

Thank you

Just quickly again, thank you Aunt Mona and Aunty Kell for the mittens, I'm anxiously awaiting them. I hope also Aunty Kell, that Customs don't stop them. I have a wrist support band, a thermal elastic type glove, a woollen glove and a woollen sock on at the moment. It's barely comfortable temperature-wise.

Yes, the rehab doctor at Ryde tried botox on me back in 2001 but no go. Works on some but not on others. I'm one of the 'others'. Never mind.

We, kids and I are up at Gregs at the moment. Greg came down to Sydney on Monday to pick up Diane's book shelf to bribg back to his place so I decided to com back with him and then back to Sydney on the weekend when Meg takes Jacob back to the airport. Gives thge kids a bit of a break.

Tony phoned me a couple of hours ago to tell me one of his mates (husband of ex-wifes best mate) had a heart attack while waiting to see the doctorfor chest pain and he died in the doctors office before the ambulance arrived. He was a bit shocked as the bloke was the same age as him. I told him to pull his finger ot and get to his parents GP to see about his own health issues as at least that old bloke knows the family history.

Better get off here. Angelina hasn't slept today and I want to get her through the tb for an early night.

Thank you all again. Great to hear from you again Megan and also you mentioned on Facebook abot Aunty Mandy, how you didn't recognise her. I've been meaning to say "how good did Mandy look at Aunty Junes Birthday?" I thought she looked AMAZING and her own boobs and all. I had asked what face cream Trish used and Mandy said that she thought she used 'ponds'. I thought about it and remembered that Mum uses ponds and it aint done her no favours so I'll stick with the ones I have and see in another 40yrs if they worked or not!

Got to go,

Sara xxxx

Margs wedding gift

Gday again. I am breaking all records. The photo is for Marg. They gave it to us for our wedding.
Charlotte had it re-framed & I  wanted Marg to see it.

I tried to upload a photo of pictures Junie gave me a couple of years ago. Didn't work so next time.

Sorry about your LONG drive Jane. Mo & Bill have 830 miles each way when they visit us. Another 180 miles both ways if they go to Whitefish. Peter & I used to go to see Mo & Bill but havn't for several years now. Too much for Peter.

Sara Palso is Alex. I'm not sure where it came from, but probably pal.  Alex calls Doug Bubba.  I don't know . I'm moving from ? to ?, with no particular order. Bear with me. I have notes but NOT organized notes. Sasquatch is a fictional large hairy monster which lives in the mountains & fishermen (of course) & other  travelers encounter him at the most inopportune moments. So far everyone has escaped him. A Yeti is also a monster The Abominable Snowman. People are happy just to glimpse him from afar.  Saskatchewan is the province between Mo Manitoba & me Alberta.

 Sara, that drug Botox makes you beautiful)  has been used, with limited success with people who have suffered a stroke. Might be worth your while to check it out on the net.

I posted your hand warmers yesterday. Hope it doesn't tale too long.

 The leather mitt may not make it.

Bernice, a million years ago you asked about my e-mail address fulla & where it came from. Quite a few of us, (me of course,) used to call Johnno fulla & it seemed like an easy name to remember.

Calgary stampede wound up Sunday night. I watched the four finalists in all 6 rodeo events. Wow, What talent. It is always the best part of the show, & so nice to see it up close & personal  on T. V. So much nicer than being in the dust, & crowds at the show with all the noise.. A  bloke,

Anthony Bolo, from Brewarrina, came in fourth (still in the money ) in the saddle bronc event.

His ride, I thought, should have been a 3rd., but of course, I'm not a judge.

The Community judges have been in town for 2 days now, one more (at least) day left, so we don't know how we are doing. Of course, the whole country has to be judged, so it will be awhile before we see the standings.

I can't remember the other things on my to write about list, so will call it quits for now. Have golf tomorrow. Calgary on Thursday  Home Sunday.

Bernice, on your map (atlas) go down from Calgary towards Montana go a tad to the left & you should see  3 highway. To the right on the highway is Lethbridge & we are 65 miles to the left (west) of Lethbridge.

Thank you all for your e-mails, & of course the Blog. So good to hear from you today  Megan.

Take care all. I have not been able to get hold of Johnno for ages.  Love to all. Kell. P.S.

I have had to remove ALL punctuation marks, or else this would not post. Sorry if it all sounds a bit breathless. I have reread it & it sounds awful without the commas etc.

Return to Wagga

Hello everyone,

Briony and I have just returned from Bourke and I can tell you this, the weather agreed with me much more up there than that which I came home to in Wagga!! We had a bit of a flying visit as we both had a lot of things to do before school goes back on the 21st. We received healthy doses of Vitamin C each day that we were in Bourke. Sadly, tighter water restrictions saw the town's biggest orchard, Mansell's, walk away from their citrus crop and the townspeople were told that they could take whatever they wanted. It's a real shame as it is beautiful fruit.

Kell, Briony and I both work at Lake Albert Public School in Wagga. I teach Year One and Briony is the Reading Recovery teacher, she works one-on-one with the children in Kindergarten and Year One who are struggling with their reading. Briony's partner, Ashley, works at the University in Wagga in IT (Information Technology) and my partner, Jon, recently brought Pedders Suspension in Wagga and also owns a farm on which he makes oaten hay. The recent rain we have had here has made him very happy as his freshly sown crop has popped out of the ground and grown about an inch. The paddocks are now covered in a bright green carpet.

I was talking to nan (Cec) the other night and she told me that they had Uncle Rod and Oskar stay for a few nights. It sounds like they thoroughly enjoyed having their visitors and can't wait till they return; nan said that Oskar is the best little baby- an absolute pleasure to have stay!

One of my friends gave me the Women's Weekly cook book, "Bake" while I was in Bourke. It's a great book for all of you who enjoy spending some time in the kitchen, very inspirational! It seems to be a compilation of many of their smaller cook books. I have book marked quite a few recipes to try while I am on holidays... cooking for pleasure seems to get put aside during the school term, much to Jon's disappointment, and occurs only on weekends (if ever!).

Must go now so I can cross some more things of my "Holidays- To Do" list. Hope everyone is well. I have attached some photos taken from Jon's farm and also one of Banjo and the boys (Jon and Lindsay) fishing in Bourke.

Megan xx

Murwillumbah here back from the dead!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello everyone!,
Well I haven't fell off the edge of the world but let me tell you I have been there. I have just got back from Biloela Oh my God what a hole. and it was so far it is years since I have driven so far as we are so spoilt with the Gold Coast airport here we get cheap flights everywhere.
The reason I went out there was that Anthea has been teaching out there and she has been given a transfer to Gladstone. So Grace and I drove back following Anthea and helped her move. the removalist did every thing we had to clean and do all those revolting jobs.
We came back down the coast from Gladstone yesterday it was just soooo far. I don't know how you Bourkies do it. I use to be able to do it when I was teaching out at Dubbo not any more though.
It has been so long since I have been on the blog the last week of term is always very chaotic and busy it is also the local Esteidford and Grace goes in that for speech and piano, so between that and poor old Asha and the end of term I didn't really get a chance to get on to the blog.
Spoke to Ken and Bernice the other day and Bernice said to me to get on to the blog as people were wondering where I was.
I am off to Grafton tomorrow for the Grafton races a big day in Lisa and my calendar I have to go and get dinner for the troops so I will get back on later.
Oh Belinda I got a message from Patrick's work that you have been trying to ring me I tried to call you back will have another go tonight.
love Jane xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

P. S.

Jane & Cec,

I forgot to mention, like Mo, I was NOT a potato eater. However, since Cec & Jane "taught" me about Aussie potatoes, we have them on a regular basis!! I was supposed to make some for Mo & Bill when they were here a couple of months ago. However, we ran out of "eating" time, so put it off till their Sept. visit. I hardly do mashed potatoes any more, only if we have invited guests. ( I don't want 

everyone serving "our" potatoes, as they do with pavlova.

Everyone wanted my pav. recipe, so now I can't serve it, as it has become too popular!! There 

was something else too, but I have forgotten. If it comes to mind soon, I'll do another P. S., otherwise will wait for my next blog. Love to all. Kell

P. Creek checking in

G'day dear family,

And a good day it is!! Summer is still here, but I expect it to leave, unannounced, at any moment.

Must take advantage of every minute of hot weather. 

The judges for the Community in Bloom competition will be here tomorrow, so I have spent most of yesterday & today (Sunday), in the church garden getting it beautiful! (My back hates me, but it has to be done.)

This competition is provincial as well as national. We have won provincial several times, but

3rd is the best we have managed at the national level. We are in "village under 7,000" Pop.

category. All areas of a community are judged.  # of parks, trees, recreation facilities.  How

clean the streets etc. are, how neat, painted, clean, the main street is. How many  garden, (flower pots)  are around. If the businesses keep lots of flower pots, etc., etc. The whole community gets into the act, with front & back yards all fixed up with flowers etc.

The Industrial area is included, so they have to get all their "garbage" etc.  tidied, vehicles put

out of sight, grass cut etc. Flower beds help too.

 It usually looks very nice, but July is our driest month, so can be hard on the lawns when we have water restrictions. Anyway,  the town is in its' "Sunday Best", all ready for the judges. Our place here

has some very nice flower beds & is looking bright & colourful. The town has been around getting all the garbage etc. out of the lane ways. Streets swept. I think we are ready!!

Sara, I have a black leather, fur lined mitten. (Customs may not allow it in, "leather AND fur"!!)

I tried to get some "hot hands" for you on Friday. Unfortunately, all winter stuff was packed away, & Brian did not have time on Friday. However, he did find some for me on Sat., so I will have it in the mail tomorrow.  I will be putting a note in the package. It will be for the benefit of the CUSTOMS people, so, PLEASE ignore it!!

Lissa, I have never considered "dialogue" as my strong  suit, but hey! I'll take a compliment any way I can get one!!

I really enjoy having you "youngens" log on. We have really never had much of a chance to get to know you, so this works well. It would be great if Megan would log on again, & let us know how work is coming along, & WHERE she is working??

Jane, hope you had a great birthday??  Tell all!  Also, now that all the "fun" is over, we need some dates  & times re: visit to Canada. Have to get our calendars under control you know.

You said January. What do you want to do ( ski, no doubt), & what do you want to see?? How 

much time will we have ? Do  give a rough idea of plans as soon as poss.

Belinda Jane, are you still planning on coming?? When, how long etc.?? Have to get some beds hung up in the ceiling, stock the larder etc. etc.!! (Put fuel in the B.B.Q.) I think we will have quite a  crowd this year, as Char. & fam will be here, & Kate has invited Garrets' wife, Sara, family, & of course, Beth. Mo & Bill. Just as well she is young!! Should be fun, but hard on Peter.

The deer have been visiting us regularly, they like the fresh grass after it has been cut. Peter loves to watch them.

Sara, you must not waste too much sympathy over anything I write. Bear in mind, there is a little, ( O. K., maybe a LOT!!) of "poor me. Poor me". I really can't (but do!!) complain very much, compared with a lot of people I know, who are faced with far worse conditions. Dougs' mother, Velma, is as least 10, maybe 15 years  younger than Peter, yet she is considerably worse. It is going to get a lot worse for me too, but I am so much better off than most. I can,& do, get away a lot during the day, & go out at night when I want. I wouldn't leave Peter alone overnight, but to go out for bridge or other social event is no problem. Also, he is O. K. with "one on one" (or 2), but doesn't like crowds any more. He used to be gregarious, now can't take  more than a few people at a time.

I havn't read  any old blogs, so don't know if I should be responding to anyone.  I will have to

be like Sara, & make notes as I read.

I don't know if I mentioned that I am now sporting, not one, but TWO hearing aids!! I have 

hardly used them yet, as I was "abed" with pneumonia  for nearly two weeks, & had bubbly

ears, so was unable to give them a good try. However, I've had them in for the past week or so,

& I must confess, I am a happy camper!!

No news, wanted you to know about the hand warmers Sara. They will be posted tomorrow, so 

with any luck you will get them in a week or so. Stewart posted me a parcel on June 26th,

didn't arrive till July 10th. I just hope customs wont take the mitt!! Love to you all, & get off

the lounge, & onto the computer!!    Kell

 

Pilot Mound signing in.

Good afternoon all. No, good morning. Afternoon for me. First, what the heck is going on with the blog? It doesn't want to accept the pass word! Wants me to have a Google account pass word ! It asked me if I wanted to change the password to mine, so I said yes and got on !! Same old pass word! Good to hear from all. No news to relate. I went to Morden this am and bought a new DVD player. I had to get Frank to play the DVDs and Videos for me...he brought his computer tower over for me, my computer and DVD player both said ' NO '. Frank played both on his computer and on his neighbours DVD player ! We will hook the new one up tonight and see how it goes.
Now I didn't take notes from postings, so have to rely on memory.....thats scary! But first and most important, Sarie, I knit. I gave my books away but still have needles and have borrowed a mitt book and have a bag of wool. I will look through and see if there is any black and get started right away. If not, we are going to Killarney tomorrow I think so can get some there. I phoned Kell early this am and she is going to check and see if she has mitts on hand and if so was to get them or it into todays mail. Make do with the sock till someone sends one, and I should have one in Mondays post. Lissa, what is your new job? What was your old job??? Lyn. A BOOK !! GREAT IDEA ! Think of the fun your grand kids would have in years to come !! Lets do it, and then up date every year or so !! I have to go soon, Bill is coming in for supper.....same old same old. He is out cutting lawn just now. A huge...and I mean HUGE.. thank you to all for DVDs and CDs and Videos. How I am enjoying them ! I just hope they dont wear out, or mine are at risk of doing so. Such a great time you all had....I know, I wasn't there, but you can see it in all the photos! I have finished scanning my Aussie photos (slides from years ago) and Frank and I are going to make a power point of them and then maybe we will look at them. I have a good start on my Canadian ones, too. They go on DVD. When all are done, I will have a nice little library of family photos on DVD and CD ! Then Kell gets the slide scanner to start on hers.
We didn't get wedding photos done (Bills family were to take them and cameras wouldn't work or something ) So the only pictorial evidence we have are the few slides Kell took. Bill worries about them, so I scanned them into the computer, showed him and he is happy. 38 years later, they are a bit grubby, so I am going to take them to a photographer friend, he will clean, scan, put on DVD and make an album for me. My anniversary gift to Bill this year. He'll be happy !
Have to go. I will go over old posts and make notes, maybe tomorrow, then sign in again. No spell check on this...last time I tried, I lost the LONG letter ! Read over errors !
I have to add, how great it was to see Rod and Jacquie and Michael in the pictures ! And it was so good that Jen and Sarie were able to be there. Love Oscar, Jacquie and Rod !
I'm off to get a meal on the table. (Have fresh beetroot and potatos. I love beets, dont eat potato. Bill could live on potato, doesn't eat beets!) The cucumbers will soon be ready, now there is good eating. ! Love to all. Heads up ! Moe.


.

A very quick sign in

Hi All
WEll talk about freezing! I hate it. I went to Wagga yesterday to see our (Bill's) uncle , he has had a stroke and not good at all. Ithink I went to say good bye and I have to say I hope it was good by as here looks to be no return and knowing Roy he would not want to be the way he is.
On a lighter note, I called in to see Nath at work and had a glass of wine, a large glass at 12.30 lunch time after the hospital visit.

I made use of the time in Wagga and had a meeting with the director of the Wagga art gallery. It was a long hard trip home by myself and had about 10hours sleep last night.

I have not forgotten my DVD for everyone. I am having trouble with my computer and can't understand why you spend 1000's of $ and they don't preform the way they should.

So I am off to work at the chemist now so have my hard drive with me and will see if the burner at work will do the job for me.

Lots of love to everyone.
Belinda xx

PS I notice we have 582 posts, would make a good book I think!

Just a Quickie

Real real quick, I haven't even had a chance to read the blog and seeing I'm on the veranda trying to work out what the hell I have to do next, I decided to log on to ask an enormous favour of anyone who may be able to help me. Here goes: Is there anyone out there who can knit? I am having a hell of a time trying to find mittens in Sydney and the cheapie Chinese shops only have them for babies. You see, my left hand is bloody frozen to the bone, is year round. A lot of it is nerve pain but F*** it is unbearable at times and trying to put gloves on is like trying be reborn again, but not spiritually. No, my hand's not big but I sware it is as tight as a fish's a*** when trying to dress it and I have to put up to three gloves on it at a time so it's a frig'n pain in the a***. I apologise for the language but it doesn't come close to expressing the frustration I feel over it. I know I shouldn't complain when there are others far worse off like Aunty June but I am SO tired of the pain and cold that I just have to ask for help if anyone can do it for me??? If I may be so bold as to ask for wool also? I will pay for it, without question, yarn, time and postage. I only want one, for the left hand. Black would be good (attracts the heat) but frankly I don't really give a toss. I'm wearing an old odd sock at the moment with a hole cut in it for my thumb but b/c it's made for a foot and not a little withered hand it tends to fall off... Yes, my foot is always frozen too but I wear thick woollen socks year round for it. I've heard of electric socks, even saw Major Winchester wearing them on M*A*S*H* but am yet to find where I can get a hold of them. The ski shops only sell mittens that are those big, thick, bulky things for skiing. I have to go, so much work (everyday crap) to do and not nearly enough time to do it all in. I will type a proper post when I can.

Love and kisses to all,
Sara XXXXX

Going's on in The "Gong"

Hi all back again, its freezing here today! we have winds like there coming from the snow!! It is snowing here not far away in the mountains..
.Meg do you go through Bathurst lithgow..area as it is or was snowing heavy there check your weather forecast for travelling if you haven't left yet. when are you leaving Bourke.
Hi lissa is always nice to hear from you girls, What new job have you got? I heard Hanna Williams is back and is ok and back at work, thats great! say hi for us when you see her please.
If Jess's 21st is on Oct long weekend we can't go(haven't been invited yet I know! Ha!) but we are going to Gold Coast for a wedding, we have booked flights ..but hey you do whatever suits you all and have a great time!! and yes tell Meg to make sure she brings back the photo of your MUm for me please, you tell your Dad we haven't forgotten my promise of a family photo with your mum included I am just waiting on a nice photo of Liz from meg.

Kell i meant to ask you in my email....I bought a world atlas book and was looking at Canada i found Alberta and i found Manitoba but i couldn't find Pincher Creek or Pilot Mound? what towns are they near? I will get on the computer and have a look later.

Mona have you received my "Discs yet? as I said before have you recieved the Laverty girls video-ing On DVD (not the still photos only) if not let me know and i will send it as its great. I might ring Toni-Lee to see if she has it and who she has copied it for? Hi to Bill.

Lisa hope you and Ron are enjoying your Hols we rang Jane for her Birthday.. she was in Biloelo (can't spell it) with Anthea but she will probaly get down to you before she gets on the blog at home..she said her internet was down...and too think I done all that 'stirring' and she didn't get to read it!!!!! Shame as "I love my own Jokes" HA! S0.....could you"Make " Her read my blogs.. she has to go back as far as the photo of my dog Kellie or maybe letter before!!!! Thanks Lisa.
What does Ramornie Day stand for? I ask jane...she said you and her day! in the sun at the races. Hows the Zappa going? I will copy and send the laverty girls video on dvd and you can copy for Jane, your Mum and maybe Stewart and he copies for Paula payton So thats good.

I copied my photos and video-ing for Trish and Bob (they are in Bourke now) and I done one for Tully's and asked Trish to take out to Jenny's for her to copy. There's too bloody many! But now I guess i will copy the laverty's for everyone as it is so good.

Sara did you get the DVD ..Kung Fu Panda hope Hokey enjoyed it, I haven't watched it yet I am getting Mumma Mia' and will smith's lastest "Hancock too. Hows things I will ring you soon. I have to finish off here so will get back on another day if i forgotten anyone or anything and catch up then....bye all love Bernice xx

a bloody long "quick hello"

Well the only news our way is that megs here with the boys, awesome!

oh and i have a new job, marcus wants to spend lots of time with jess at the vet surgery, jacob hasnt changed a bit just more grown up bless him hes great.

we have 2 rabbits one is named fly thats jess's rabbit and one is named lizzie (after mum) and she is mine and kells..

dad tried lizzie for size in the wok and let me tell you she was less than impressed at the sight of it. the rabbits love tourmenting the dogs.

i have axilottle babies or mexican walking fish and no meg they dont need a heater (meg fried the boys axilottles when they had them) little did she know they thrive in cold water..

no rain in bourke just the threat with big clouds but nothing coming from it.

we found some excellent pictures of mum the other day with the help of some famiy friends and dad got them blown up so he can put them around the house, hes even making beef wood frames for them they are excellent she is smiling big time in them it was taken as she walked through the gate into her surprise 40th party, bernice meg has a copy.

kelly and tammy are baby sitting all this week and its doing them good they dont like the early starts though.

invites for jess's 21st will be out shortly but beware it may be through this site as between all the paytons there are a hell of a lot of invites to write out..

would be excellent if we could get a few to come out fopr it JANE AND NATH jess has requested your presence without fail she said "if there is anyone she wants to get drunk with (she isnt much of a drinker) its you two.. no excuses for you guys..

looking at october long weekend but not sure try and keep it free though ALL.

mona my email adress is : little_tully420@hotmail.com

and i better bloody recieve one in the next week or two or i will be very upset..

(there is an underscore between "little" and "tully"

not sure if it shows up or not here.

hey aunty kell wanted to throw you a quick hello we have decided that you are most entertaining out of all the sisters because of your dialogue.

anyway thats it..

bourke n back out

lissa

xxx

BUGGER!

Be bollocksed, I just found the ferrari photo's on here and the best ones didn't load. All this time I've been going on about the gorgeous colour of red on the last one and the bloody thing isn't even there. I'll have to load it l8r b/c I'm using Tony's laptop in bed. So I know you won't be waiting (w8ing) with baited breath but I will put the pics on when I get out to the pc.

It's taken me this long to logon in the comfort of my bed but that's mainly due to my concerns that if I allow any updates of software available online for this laptop then it will probably affect something Tony wants to do and he'll be wishing I leave things alone but that aint gonna happen!

Tony's taken Hokey to work today but I reckon it will be a short day for Hokey. I rugged him up and dressed in old clothes with one of Marcus's old ski jackets. It was Marcus's but the only way I can get him to wear, use or eat something he doesn't want to I have to tell him it was, used or eaten by Marcus. Food still is an issue and we've he's gone to bed hungry a few nights now b/c he wouldn't eat dinner and amazingly Tony, as far as I know hasn't snuck any food in to him while I wasn't aware. But like Mum, not much gets by me around here, even forgetful as I am!

I cannot find the pedal for my sewing machine so my sewing pile is still on the kitchen chair and the machine still on the kitchen table. Tony pulled the laundry apart looking for it last night, which I suspect is how it got lost in the first place... I told him not to worry about it, it'll turn up when we move. I will look for it today while they are at work but I must get out of bed now to go do the groceries while it's still early enough and b4 Ange wants to go back to bed.

Oh, Jane Lisa Megan, ALL teachers. I'm painfully aware of my poor grammar, spelling etc (I remember too well those red pen marks in my school books with comment "full stop" and "comma" etc etc etc. Have I improved at all or are my sentences still too long? Should I be using more paragraphs? Taking a breath?

Ok, I'm going, ciao and love to all. Will post ferrari pics l8r, xxxxx

Hello, I'm still here...

Ciao (yes, it can mean 'Hello' or 'Goodbye'!) sorry I haven't been about, kids, family, life! You know how it is, especially Aunty Kell. I will write in point form as I've made notes on everyones posts. Here goes:

Big Girl, WELL DONE but in my defence I have only been playing the game since I bought the program after Marcus sent his DS home with me. I've managed 'Train' speed and my oldest age was 80 something, lowest 59yrs. I need to do more of my cryptic crosswords (Aunty Cook would be impressed, I remember her telling me to do a crossword and handed me a x-word dictionary to make it easier but I didn't like x-words so stayed on mums lap). It was Ted Slacksmith who got me interested in the cryptics. I used to walk over to Ned and Teds for a visit from the hospital, it was quite a ways away but he explained them to me. Then when I started in the I.T. industry, back when smoking was still allowed in the offices, one of the programmers always did the Daily Telegraph cryptics so I'd sit with him and learn. When I finally bought my own book I was hooked, they are very stimulating.

• Aunty Kell, I really feel for you, it must be so hard not only to nurse a patient with such a terrible disease but also for that person to be your own lifes companion. I cannot even comprehend the magnitude and stress of the work you do. I will continue to pray for you all. Oh and well done with the pic's, we hope to see lots more, of the family and everything. You are not prattling, it's the everyday life things that we all like to hear It's what you do with your days and how you are feeling, join Bernice and I in therapy, it really does help... :O). Would love to see pics of the kids (yours) and all the grandkids. I haven't seen a picture of Charlotte since you were all out here for christmas 30 or so years ago! Also a question, who the heck is 'Palso' and where does the name come from?
• Yes, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to everyone. I'm pathetic when it comes to them. I phoned mum to let her know Meg and boys were on their way home after Jacob arrived. She told me about all of Aunty Junes visitors and phone calls and I didn't even think to wish her Happy Birthday. Brain dead I tell you!
• Saskatchewan, that name always makes me think of Big Foot (Saskwatch?). Is that where he's supposed to be? There must be a family of Big Foots b/c there's no way one of those things could live as long as it's supposed to have been around. Same as the Lochness Monster, they're all a load of crap...
• 'Pre-school' Lisa? We'll have to start calling you two "Aunt Mona and Uncle Bill"! No offence Aunt Mo', I just find it amusing how the dogs rule the roost. By the way, how is your little Princess? I think I've mentioned the bloke who walks his poodle past Hokeys school? It's a full sized one and it's gorgeous. Lisa, do you guys ever slow down? You're like Bernice too, always someone coming or going or you coming or going. You all amaze me.
• Aunt Mona, are you ok? I haven't seen you in ages and miss your sessions. How are Uncle Bill and the stadium coming along? I haven't seen any of the cd's or dvd's yet, like I said, kids, family, life!!!
• Tony has to gas up the Pajero soon too, petrol prices getting rediculous.
• Now, this bloody move; Marc comes around the other day and exceptionally long story short, reckons he's decided to finally make the move. I'll believe it when I see it. I've done enough and am not doing any more for him, if Tony wants to he can. That's it, I'll say no more until boxes start getting packed...Again!

Well, I think that's it. Oh, did I mention in a previous post that Hokey was accused of cutting a classmates hair? Well, I told the teacher the next day and Hokey, his supposed partner in crime and the said boy were all questioned (I assume) and it turned out not to be Hokey at all. The culprit was found and his parents and the 'victims' parents were called up to the school and spoken to by the principle. The school has a zero tolerance policy toward anti-social behavior of any sort (anti-social is not the word I'm trying to think of but it will suffice).

Hokey is bugging me to go outside but it's too cold at the moment. I bought us all mud boots on Saturday so we can go out in the back yard and the can run around and not be worried about the slush or dog crap on their shoes. It's brilliant, don't know why it's taken me 3 years to think of it but we have them now so we're set for outside play. Peter Tully would be pleased, he told me "those kids need to get some sun, they're too white". I cited the dog crap and slush etc but he said "that's what a bath is for". I had no arguement so Peter, they are getting sun, when it comes from behind the clouds...

We were supposed to go to a Hot Rod show last Sunday but Tony had worked his butt off for 13 days straight and was too crook with the usual plus the head cold on top. He was then going to take Hokey to see Kung-fu Panda but missed the last session at 2pm. He feels crappy that he doesn't get to spend time with the kids but he still pushes himself on and on.

Ok, that's it. I'm off to have a cuppa, it's 12:12pm and I haven't had one since 0615, I'm hang'n!

Ciao, love and kisses, as always XXXXX

Just posted this then saw that Aunt Mo' had logged on, sorry, I brought the blog up yesterday I think it was but didn't get a chance to read so missed your post Aunt Mona, xxx

Pilot Mound checking in.

I am a sad person. If you dont want to hear about it, tough.! Just talked to Cook, and she told me Ken Wheelhouse died last year. I didn't know and am so sad. It feels like I've had a punch in the stomach...a BIG punch. My old mate. I could have visited his grave at least. Didn't send Rosemary a card even. And too late now. Any of you bunch who pray, please remember Ken in your prayers. Rest eternal grant unto him oh Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon him. And see you when my turn comes, mate!
It has been a funny day here today. Cloudy and rain this am. Cold and cloudy this afternoon and now bright sun ! I want to paint tomorrow, so hope it stays fine and warms up a bit. Put the primer coat on the deck railing two days ago, and want to get the top coat on and have it done with. Haven't been able to paint this spring, with the seeds falling off the maple and elm trees....so many seeds it looks like snow falling. This too shall pass.
No news. I looked at Kells ' deco's ' and thought I must take a photo of my roses and post it...cant decorate worth a hoot, but my roses are worth looking at. Then the rain and wind, and now my roses aren't worth looking at!!
I tried to get Kell on the phone, in case she didn't know about Ken, but no answer. So if you read this before I talk to you Kell, sorry.
Anyway , I really dont feel like thinking or writing, so maybe more later. Do keep up with the notes, as Kell said it is our life line to home. Lissa, Email me your address, please.
Love to all. Keep your heads up !! Mona Bill and I went through our slides and sorted and culled. Got rid of hundreds, but kept the ones that mean anything. Frank and I are going to do a power point of Aussie ones, then if I ever get done categorizing the Canadian ones, them too. I will put some on the Blog ......just little rememberances.....when we are done. Such fun going back. M.

I told you that I would  show you what a talented little decorator I am!! (Eat your heart out Belinda Jane!) Meg, I need your e-mail address. I am sure Bernice is tired of being my postman! Jane, do

you have another address, or just the school address? That address wont take e-cards, but treats them as spam. I don't send  regular cards anymore. Too late by the time I remember, so e-cards can all be sent ahead of time  (if I remember to post-date them!!) I did send you a birthday card, but your add. would not accept it. 

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY" for the 10th! No news. I wrote to Meg & Bernice today. ( Thank GOD for Bernice & Sara, (where are you Sara??) ) They are so faithful, & keep us all up to date. I regret to say, I am delinquent. Alas, when I get time. ie., night time, "the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak"!! Mo & I have just received C.D.s & a DVD from Meg & Lisa. I told you before, that Mo & I are STILL at the party! I have uploaded the 2 CDs, but couldn't open the DVD. Mos' "computer instructor" can open it on his computer, so is hoping to re-do it & get copies to us both. It has all been such fun. Bernice mentioned some pictures put together by the laverty girls. We HOPE to get a copy of that. We will gladly pay any expenses, just let us know. I am writing in the dark, lest I wake Peter. (Heaven forbid!) Anyway, dear family, it is only 10.30, but the old bod. is still not up to snuff, so I will sign off now, & continue with recouperation!!

Hope you are enjoying being home Jacob, & that Meg & Fam. are enjoying having you. Also hope ALL the school teachers, (including the White girls) are enjoying the break. Love to you ALL.  Log on, as it is our life-line.Kell.

Helloooo

Hi all Bernice here ....lovely to hear from you Kell....just got to know you are alive and well, you poor darling I think of you as if it was me and you just have to do 'the long yards with your soul mate...but it must be so hard for you(i have seen Alzheimer's Patients with spouses that love them and it is so very hard on the partner, please look after yourself too and get respite from somebody!! so you can be there for everyone else, and thanks for the birthday song for ken ie- e card.. It was so coool yeah get down ..hoe down!!! He had a great day, i made him a candle night dinner..with entree ..prawn cocktail,my seafood sauce. then' chicken palmajana' (made by uncle leonard) cooked to perfection by bernice with potoes with bacon and white sauce (by uncle mitchell)fresh brocolli ,peas,gravy, and then mango cheese cake with fresh cream (made by Aunty Sara-lee) I done well - done good..?? I did buy him a model car to add to his collection this one was a replica of a SS Holden that we actually had years ago so he thought that was magic!!

Hi to mona, have you recieved my discs yet ? hope you enjoy ...I must ask.. have you got the "video' plus photos that the "Laverty girls done for June ....Not the first lot of photos that toni-lee sent..these are their video plus photos of the venue ...but they have put so many other treasured photos on..and the way they have done it all is just magic and lovely for all to appreciate but they aimed it at June which is beautiful ....but I feel all the family should see it..I have it.. Natch!!! But I am all burnt..out for burning any more DVDs.so let me know any or all of you , Who does have it or doesn't and i will try to get it to you or a member of your family, they don't blog and said i could just pass it on...but >>>>>>

Toni-lee they said you have it..so you can copy for some and help me out with it..if you have seen it you know its worth viewing.......WELL DONE LAVERTY GIRLS.. A TREASURE FOR June..

A little thank you here for "TOM ' for being there for june at this time in need also..good on you :RED'

Speaking of red ..where are you my little Sara... Have you finally got a "therapist' Ha! ring you soon.

Jane..Asha... Brydie ....anyone..where are you??? Asha... I figure if you are "layed" up you should be 'bored and you could get on the "Blog" and entertain your "RELS AND WRITE! and let us know what you have been up too!! you can leave out the "R Rated stuff if not say Hi to nan and Pop for us. I didn't hurt your feelings did i?? Nahhhhhh

Lisa..No worries the phone was running hot anyway...What .pre school is Zappa going too? is it training ..or babysitting?? Have a great holiday..I said to ken we will go to grafton one year for the races.....maybe not next but the year after maybe..as next year we are going to "Fiji" for a wedding but more on that later.

Jacob.... happy birthday darling hope you had a great day!! hope you have a great holiday and hope we get to see you before you have to go back..be in touch..love to Bro, unc, Mum.

I have to go the footy is on..hows that stinking QLD beating us in origin aye!! Oh it hurts so..next year.

Bye now ..hope all are well and as happy as can be......bye now ....love bernice xx

Hello family

Hi All,
Lisa here. Our two weeks holiday starts today - horay! Have busy plans, but relaxing in amongst it all is part of it. We go up to Ronny's brothers tomorrow in Lenox Head for the night. Then to mum and dad's on Monday. Hope to get the lawns mowed and Jane and Anthea are coming to visit for lunch ( will have to mow fast!).
Back to Grafton on Tuesday - Zappa has puppy pre-school on a Tuesday night! Wednesday we drive to Sydney to Ronny's dads for a few days, then his sisters. Back to Grafton for school again on Tuesday! Actually I am going into school on Tuesday, meeting my year 12's for rehearsals, but Zappa has pre-school that night.
Then we have a full house for the July races. Jane, Asha, Sebastian, Brydie and Jess (famliy friend), and Stewart and Kerrie arrive. Wedensday is the best day - the day before Grafton Cup. Ramornie Day and it is heaps of fun. Will all go out for a picnic lunch at the races. Always lots of fun and the town just pumps!
Am going to get domestic and bake some biscuits for Dad and Mum today. Do not play hockey until 5.20pm, so I have the day to do it.
well, better get started,
love to all,
Lisa

Kells' Artistic Abillity

More of Kells' artistic abillity

Dear Family,

Sorry Bernice, we are all a bit lax, but we DO enjoy you & Sara for being so faithful, & for keeping us all up to speed. Don't quit now!!! I always have good intentions, but by the end of the day, I am completely brain dead. During the day, no opportunity, as my buddy has to know where I am at ALL times. Very un-nerving, & VERY annoying. However, that is all part of the "condition", & one has to learn to live with it.

We are finally getting a taste of summer, but it will be short lived, as it usually is. Lovely today, 90F., & my old body does love it. I've been under the weather for nearly 2 weeks, so need a bit of T.L.C., especially weather-wise. It does manage to keep one more or less, sane!

Gardens all coming along fine.

Anyone who has a July birthday, will have received their "e-cards" early, as I forgot to post date them, (no surprise!!) I'll try & remember next time. I sent Jacobs' card to Sara, as I DO NOT HAVE Megs' add!!! Sorry Jacob, but it kept coming back. I don't know if it finally did go, but I usually do not have a problem with her add.

Dougs' family, (ie., sister & daughter) are now in Pincher. They were with Kate & Fam. for over a month. Velma has alzheimers too, but is WAY worse than Peter. They are spending the last few days of their holiday with her. No Lions club tonight, so I have a "freebee"!! Just as well, as I don't know when else I would be sitting here.

I'm not a golfer, but have two golf games next week, & a B. B. Q. in a town 65 miles away, on the way yo Calgary. I thought I'd invite Steve, if he can get away. He would meet me there. It's not a place for childa, else I would invite the whole family.

Charlotte & Fam., are on their way to Saskatchewan for a few days on Saturday. Michaila has been visiting in Toronto for the past week, should fly in tonight.

Doug & Dan arrive home from las Vagas today I think. They were there for Dans' hockey try-outs. I havn't heard how it all went. Dan & Drew leave for Hockey School in Boston I think on

Saturday or Sunday. They will be hockey for the week, then will probably spend a few days with Garret & Sarah. ( Lin knows Garret.)

While I was "under the weather" I took it upon myself to do a little "home decorating". (Mustn't waste time, must we??)

Anyway, I took pictures of my efforts, to make Martha, Laverty childa, & Belinda Jane jealous!! However, I CANNOT upload those pictures for the life of me!.  All I get is strange codes, that won't open, so I have no idea what is going on. You all HAVE to see how talented I am, so I am going to try another time!

Mo & I are STILL enjoying "the party". I look at pictures regularly, & Peter watches them on slide show. He doesn't know many, but he does enjoy it just the same.

I'm just prattling on here. No news, as life is pretty mundane these days. Calgary Stampede starts tomorrow, & the whole province goes wild for 2 weeks, then things settle down for awhile. Most locals go for at least a few days. Peter used to love it, & wouldn't miss it. Not interested now, as he can't cope with the crowds.

No news. Thanks to EVERYONE who sent us pictures. As I said, the party isn't over for us yet!!

Take care all, enjoy your holiday Jacob. Write often, as it is the Blog that keeps me going.

Love to all. Kell

Hey where are you!!!!!!!!!

this is bernice here!!! Ive' got a lot to say as usual but logged on and no one has been on here !!there is only about a hundred of you!!!!!!!!! that could be on here !!!! but NO....... anyway I'm warning you ........ if ever SARA or Me get a " therapist' This Blog is going to get very boring!!! which will be a shame!!!............................. LUCKY YOU...WE HAVEN'T AS YET........Sooooooo I need to talk ..........be back tomorrow.........Love Bernice xx

Anna Bay Antics

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU KENNY hope you had a great day. Havn't phoned as yet as I bet the phones are running hot. Will give you a call tonight.
Love Tom Meg Jacob Marcus Sara &Co Greg and Mark &Co.

Jacob here

Hello everyone. Just ketting you all know im back in australia and have been for 4 days haha.

The weather has been lovely, sunny, warm, a tiny bit windy but its been great. A big change from the cold, wet and windy area of Henderson Valley in New Zealand. Mum and i are going out today. Going to do a little bit of shopping and have lunch.

Can't wait to catch up with everyone, as i have missed you all so much. Don't know what the next couple of weeks will bring but im looking foward to it.

Hope everyone is well and haveing a lovely 2008. I hope it will be a great year for you all.

Lots of love

Jacob xoxo

Anna Bay

Good Morning all, a bit of a breezy start to the morning the gale force winds will pick up about mid morning. No use fussing over a hair do mother nature rearranges it the way she wants to. Jacob and I were going to catch the ferry to Tea Gardens and have lunch but I dont fancy being seasick by the time we got there. We are going to go birthday shopping instead. He is in the process of getting his learners drivers licence here, that will be part of his birthday present. It is so good having him home. He cooked tea for us last night and a couple of marcus's mates that blew in from up the road. It was nice being relieved of the task. We will call in to see Mum and Aunty June before they go off to radiotherapy. Bernice I have not been on the phone because Ive blown my phone bill way out and have to keep off the thing. I have cancelled the message bank as well, work was not happy with me but I was not happy with them either only being rostered one and two clients. I gave Jacob the digital camera as Marcus wasnt using it. But as soon as you turn it on it turns itself off. Ive spent heaps on batteries but Idont think that is it. Jacob said something about the chip in it. Oh well it might be what he gets for his birthday. Sarie I got hooked on that sukuko and got the jet plane beat that big girl. I had the brain age of an 80 year old there one day and 61 yesterday!!!!!! waiting for the 21 year old brain to come up.
Love Meg
Hope you all have a nice day, I know i will.