Tracy Anne Little™

Project 2011 - Lesson 8 Past And Present

2012-01-28T08:30:00.000+13:00

It wasn't just Trelise's clothing that was exquisite so was her flagship store. It was magic from the moment you walked in, until the moment you walked out. Using Anna's Project 2011 Template 8 made recording photos and memories from this beautiful store a breeze.

It is so sad that it closed down. It was a real feel good store and one that everyone loved.

Next week I am working with Anna's Project 2011 Template 9, we are fast approaching the end of this journey and as each week passes me by I get more and more excited knowing that my project is nearly finished.

tag

2012-01-27T20:07:00.003+13:00

The boys had tag last night so I went along, as I love watching and photographing the games. It is a fast paced game that everyone seems to thoroughly enjoy playing. Daniel's game was first up, they were playing there mixed team. Then Michael's team were playing an ex Glenfield Rugby players team.

Both boys teams were successful which is always a bonus.

Michael has been named in the Glenfield Sevens team playing in the Mount Maunganui Sevens tournament this weekend, so we are heading along to support them. It should be a good weekend, and could possibly our last family weekend for a while, as Michael has been nominated and accepted by the International Rugby Academy to attend a 3 week High Performance Players' course. If the funding is approved he will leave Monday or Tuesday (as soon as we get back from the Mount and book his flights). It is a huge honor for him to be nominated and will be an extremely beneficial experience for him as both a person and a player.

meeting molly (photo overkill)

2012-01-27T17:22:00.003+13:00

We went to see Jan yesterday and the kids finally got to meet "Molly" Jan and Phil's new puppy. She is absolutely gorgeous, super friendly and quite a character.

Chris and Molly

Alexandria and Molly

Joshua

Alexandria and Jan

the gorgeous Miss Molly

it was so hot, that Jan got Molly's paddling pool out

feet first

Christopher

Daniel

Miss Molly shaking off that excess, showering Christopher in the process

she spent ages fishing for this twig in her paddling pool

Pooped

sausages and beans

2012-01-24T20:22:00.000+13:00

Daniel tried some sausages the other day and couldn't stop going on about them, so today I hunted them down. Old English Sausages and Chorizo Sausages from Butcher Jacks. I didn't mind the Old English Sausage but the Chorizo was just too spicy for my liking. Christopher did an awesome job cooking them. Michael and Daniel are at Tag training.

Christopher and Alexandria found I had beans growing in the garden, please note the "had" as between the two of them they ate any big enough to eat.

It is the final week of school holidays for the kids, which means it is preparation week. Alexandria and Christopher start school exactly one week today. Monday being a public holiday for Auckland Anniversary. Daniel and Joshua start on Wednesday.

On the internet front, apparently our issues have now been rectified. I received a call from Orcon today and although Chorus still haven't done exactly what was requested, we have internet and a home phone. Orcon will monitor us for a few days, then tidy everything up.

I watched the movie "The Descendants", it was quiet good, but I think the main attraction was George Clooney. The music was lovely, and the story was sweet. I don't know what all the hype is about to be honest. So it is back to my book, I am currently reading The Promise by Lesley Pearse so far so good.

Standing O

2012-01-22T20:03:00.002+13:00

Standing O 22/01/2012

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template No 42

Anna Aspnes - Encouragement WordART No 1

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Mist

Thanks Marnie!

markets

2012-01-22T19:50:00.004+13:00

I love Sundays and Glenfield markets. It means I don't have to cook not that I ever cook on a Sunday, cause it is Walter's night. Anyhow thanks to some of the rugby boys, Alexandria wanted to get a hair wrap, I should of just come home and done the You Tube thing but there are never enough hours in the day and I think my patience would have run out.

She is happy with it. Between us we had a huge variety of food - I thoroughly enjoyed my Banana Crepe then my Spare Ribs from That's Asian drive through on the way home.

It has been a pretty quiet day on the home front, the weather was absolutely miserable this morning with torrential rain. Daniel and I went to the supermarket and got absolutely soaked.

Savoury Muffins

2012-01-22T13:13:00.000+13:00

4 cups self-raising flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups grated tasty cheese

1/2 cup diced ham/bacon

1/2 diced onion

6 eggs

4 cups milk

Preheat the oven to 200ºC / 392ºF. Grease 24 muffin pans

Combine flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Use a fork to roughly mix add Cheese, then bacon, then onion. In a separate bowl mix together milk and eggs, pour over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The mixture should be quiet wet. Divide mixture between muffin pans. Bake for 20 minutes or until rise and golden brown. The mixture is set when it bounces back to the touch. Leave to stand for 20 minutes before removing from the pans.

to be continued ...

2012-01-21T18:14:00.004+13:00

our internet dramas just go from bad to worse, the technician was told that we would not be home after 11am today, he rang us at midday as he prepared to enter our home to install the second line. Total Incompetence!!

When he rang we were out at Waitemata preparing to watch our boys play in a Sevens training tournament and also catch up with some good friends of ours, who currently live out that way.

Walter, Christopher and Leo

Leo and Rebecca's son Savea.

I pity anyone at the end of one of these tackles Michael makes.

The last game was Glenfield v Glenfield, it was a lot of fun and everyone enjoyed themselves laughing and joking with each other on the field.

Brotherly Love :)

Alexandria with her friend Riley

When we left home this morning it was cool overcast day, it didn't stay that way. It has been a wonderful afternoon, now I am looking forward to an early night after a bit too much sun.

Art - Anna Aspnes (unique and amazing)

2012-01-21T10:05:00.000+13:00

Unique And Amazing

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template No 42

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Mist

Anna Aspnes - Encouragement WordArt No 1

Project 2011 - Lesson 7 Creative Stories Within Stories

2012-01-21T08:30:00.000+13:00

I am so excited to share this weeks installment of my project, created using Anna's Project 2011 Template 7 and a kit of Anna's I have always adored ArtPlay Palette Mermaids.

I was going to talk about how adaptable Anna's ArtPlay Palettes are but in actual fact this whole project is totally adaptable. I did mention to Anna that she should have called it something other than "Project 2011" as I am the perfect example of not using it for that purpose. I am absolutely loving the pdf's that come with the templates, Anna has a wonderful way with words and hasn't gone all technical. She has kept it simple and easy to follow, you don't have to follow the pdf's but for me they have taught and are teaching me lots. It is time to move on to the next template which is Project 2011 Template No 8

see you next week :)

internet blues

2012-01-20T22:03:00.000+13:00

We had a new phone/internet line installed late yesterday afternoon, with 1820 disconnects so far this billing cycle something drastic needed to be done. Has it make an ounce of difference to our connection? NO in fact we are worse off than when we started. At least before the technician did his thing we had decent speeds now we are restricted to a snails pace which is absolutely pointless.

An Orcon manager named Jess, did ring to find out how the changes supposedly made yesterday had affected us. I told her the truth that I honestly felt no physical changes had occurred because the technician had not been into the house, so how could a line have been installed? She was astounded as she said the notes given to the Chorus technician were easily understandable and it was clear what needed to be done.

Later this afternoon Jess rang once again, to say she had taken this further, and gone to her Manager who had rung a Manager at Chorus - they are now promising to be here in the morning to install the new line. Is there a light at the end of this tunnel? I hope so, because I am well and truly over this.

Walter ended up going to Tokoroa last night, he stayed over returning home late morning with Joshua, it is great having our family back together again! It is not quiet the same when one is missing.

Michael and Daniel had Tag football last night so Christopher, Alexandria and I went down to support them and whilst there I photographed the games.

It was a beautiful evening, but by the third game the temperatures started to drop and there was a definite chill in the air. We picked up a takeaway on the way home, ate and practically went straight to bed.

After procrastinating and asking lots of questions I signed up for Kayla Lamoreaux's "Finding Photo Flow" it is a class that will give me the tools to take my photos from overwhelming to organized. At the moment as long as I know the date my photos were taken I can find them. When I don't know the date it is a long slow process locating what I am looking for. I am excited about this class and looking forward to getting stuck in.

whanau

2012-01-17T12:23:00.001+13:00

Sunday afternoon, we made a late decision and caught up with the Whanau at Long Bay Beach. All up there were 18 of us, and it was an awesome afternoon/evening. Even when it rained on us it didn't stop us enjoying ourselves.

Alexandria with her cousin Jonelle

Christopher

Alexandria on the Boogie Board

(From Left to Right) Daniel, James, Lynx, Angelina, Linda, Lanieta, Laurence, Tremain, Opal, Walter and Charlie

The boys playing touch rugby

the cousin pow wow - deciding what to do next.

(From Left to Right) Jonelle, Opal, Christopher, Daniel, Tremain, Michael, Lynx, James, Alexandria and Lanieta.

harvest

2012-01-14T16:51:00.000+13:00

Alexandria and I harvested our potatoes today, we made a huge mess everywhere but were pleasantly surprised at how many potatoes we managed to find in our two tubs.

it is the first time we have ever planted potatoes, and we will be definitely planting more.

This afternoon we went tiki touring, Daniel wanted to look at rugby boots because his have just started splitting and Walter needed some sports shoes for rugby trainings. We stopped in at this "Earthquake Liquidation Sale" Daniel picked up a pair of boots that were 75% off retail

for Walter's shoes we ended up going to Rebel sport where he found something suitable for 30% off. Thank goodness for the Summer Sales!

Time to go and harvest some taro leaves to make pulasami for Walter for dinner. We had a late lunch whilst we were out so no one is currently very hungry, but I know it can be successfully be reheated.

Art - Anna Aspnes (random fun)

2012-01-14T09:05:00.002+13:00

Random Fun

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Journey MultiFoto Template

Anna Aspnes - Layered Edge Overlays 1

Anna Aspnes - Script Tease Friends 1

Anna Aspnes - Different Strokes 8

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Crush

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Barren Sunrise

Anna Aspnes - Artistic Edge Overlays 2

Anna Aspnes - Stitched LoopDa Loop White 1

available @ Oscraps

Project 2011 - Lesson 6 Repeat Outside The Box

2012-01-14T08:30:00.000+13:00

this week I worked with Project 2011 - Template No 6 this particular template is absolutely perfect for sharing lots of photos! And learning about repetition has been a fun learning curve.

I used Annas' ArtPlay Forget Me Not which I adore for my backgrounds and sketched flowers and birds, and the tiara is an extraction of the actual tiara Alexandria wore.

Next week we will be working with Project 2011 - Template 7 until then I hope you are having fun and gaining lots of knowledge from the pdf's in this workshop.

fallen off the face of the earth?

2012-01-12T20:51:00.002+13:00

I am actually still alive and kicking but I have been extremely busy this week.

Monday saw the return of Michael, his flight arrived back in Auckland at 6.30pm but he still had to shuttle back to the shore with the team. The day dragged on and on whilst we waited. I cleaned and baked and cleaned some more. I just wanted my boy home to hear all about his experiences whilst away. Walter and Daniel headed to the first training of the pre-season. When we finally collected Michael, we swung by there training - Michael wanted to catch up with Walter, Daniel and some of his mates. I wanted to see how big an audience the rugby clubs website and Facebook had attracted and was pleasantly surprised.

Tuesday I was looking after a friends kids, it also saw a visit from the Takarangi Whanau, we sat and chatted for what seemed like hours. It was great to catch up! Then the cards came out and the boys started playing Euchre. Dan and Daniel were playing against Michael and Raniera and I am sure the two "D's" were cheating, although I couldn't work out how. It was classic watching them. Michael and Daniel followed the Takarangi's home for a swim, and ended up playing cards again before rushing home to pick up there Tag training gear and heading to training. I had a committee meeting to attend, so I left as soon as Walter came home, it was a long meeting, but I think we actually achieved quiet a bit. There is so much to do before the beginning of the rugby season.

Wednesday, caught up with the washing, did the grocery shopping, same shit just a different day. I planted my chilli plants in the vegetable garden, everything is growing like weeds thanks to all the rain. I picked my first tomatoes of the season which are absolutely delicious.

Today, Michael returned to work. Alexandria and Daniel need new passports, so I took them to the chemist to get photos for the application forms .. they are not the prettiest photos

I felt really sorry for Alexandria, as she got up this morning and washed her hair especially for the photo and the lady told her she had to tie it back as you have to have a gap around the head. Whilst in the chemist Walts rang, he came to the shopping centre we were at and picked up Daniel taking him out in the car with him for the day. Christopher and I dropped Alexandria off at her friends house for what was to be her first ever sleepover playdate. Which meant it was just Christopher and I.

We headed out to Albany where we wandered around the mall, we had hot chocolate at Eve's Pantry and wandered around a bit more. Christopher has a thing about "RED" he loves the color. We went into Hallensteins and they had boys red skinny jeans and shorts. We managed to secure a pair of the jeans but the shorts were sold out instore (but just quietly not online, so I grabbed him a pair for his birthday next month).

On the way home we had to drop Joshua's laptop off at the computer technician as he spilt milo one evening, and it rendered the keyboard useless. It happened a few weeks ago but still worked thanks to an external keyboard. But I thought whilst he is away I would get it fixed.

We had a late lunch at "That's Asian" of Korean BBQ Spare Ribs and stir fried vegetables, then returned home.

modeling his new skinny red jeans.

caught in the act, Christopher up a ladder picking plums before the birds get them

I have just had to go and collect Alexandria from her first ever sleepover, it wasn't a success. She has had a brilliant day with her friend Jennifer but I think it was just a bit much.

instagr.am

2012-01-08T17:09:00.000+13:00

we were fixated to the television again today, for the second and final day of the Sevens Rugby tournament in Queenstown. Harbour's first game was the Quarter final against Waikato just after midday, so we had a no rush, extremely relaxed morning. Once midday hit so did the visitors, our nephew James was the first to arrive, then the Otene Whanau.

Michaels wrist band for the weekends' tournament

Michael didn't get any game time against Waikato, and Harbour went down 19 - 7. But he got his opportunity in the semi final against Taranaki, who proved they were highly skilled and managed to deprive Harbour of the ball. Michael scored a great try in the first half and had another in the second half, but instead he saved one of his team members from doing the undie run (for non try scoring players in the tournament) by passing him the ball in what was the final seconds of the game.

It has been an awesome experience for Michael, the first of what will no doubt be one of many opportunities that will open up to him. Harbour ended in the top 8 out of 16.

the early morning view from Michaels hotel window in Queenstown

As for the rest of the day, our weather is absolutely atrocious. Obviously summer is going to be extremely late to fully kick in. This morning it was so chilly I had to put on a sweatshirt. It is totally crazy! I can almost guarantee that when the kids return to school in February, summer will start.

Alexandria's hair when I took out her plaits

I have just started using an iPhone application called Instagr.am it is a lot of fun. I am still in the learning phase, and am sure in no time at all I will be an old hand at using it.

Art - Anna Aspnes (brothers)

2012-01-08T08:58:00.000+13:00

Brothers

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Friends

exciting debut

2012-01-07T19:36:00.000+13:00

it has been such an exciting day ... We have been glued to the front of the television watching the 2012 Pub Charity Rugby Sevens in Queenstown, as each game progressed so did the number of people in our home. We ended up with 17 watching from the comfort of our lounge and dining area. It was Awesome!

Harbours' first game was at 11.10am against Canterbury, Michael came on in the closing minutes of the game and scored a fabulous try, if the kick had gone over it would have resulted in a draw for Harbour, but alas it didn't so Harbour lost 19 - 21.

This is the only way I know how to share his try, I used my iPhone to video the television, so it isn't the best recording on earth. Turn up the volume to hear the commentators lol - "Freak Play"

Harbour's next game was at 1.50pm against Tasman, now this one they had to win - Sorry Rachel, hope you still love me? Harbour won 24 - 21 Michael stayed on the bench.

There final game of today was at 4.50pm they were playing against Bay Of Plenty, it was a nail biter, Michael again stayed on the bench.

Harbour are now through to the Cup Quarter Finals tomorrow, they play Waikato at 12.05pm not sure who is coming to watch but it is going to be and exciting game and afternoon. Fingers crossed Michael gets out there again, but if he doesn't he has learnt so much from this whole experience and has many more years ahead of him.

michaels try

2012-01-07T16:35:00.000+13:00

Project 2011 - Lesson 5 Say What You Feel

2012-01-07T08:30:00.000+13:00

I can't believe how quickly this project is growing, these are pages 8 and 9 :) this book is going to be so fabulous for Alexandria. She will be able to read about her experiences and all the photos are finally in one place, not all over the show like they are currently.

This week, I followed Anna's Project 2011 Template 5 and through reading the pdf I learned to express myself with more adjectives and adverbs. I am becoming more and more confident as the weeks go on about telling the story.

I am a little ahead of myself, and have already started working on next weeks blog post based on Project 2011 - Template No 6 because I just can't help myself. As I see this project grow I get more and more enthusiastic about it.

edible plants

2012-01-05T19:36:00.002+13:00

I visited the garden centre today, and came home with some more edible plants

Raspberry Ebony

Grape Candice Seedless

Thornless Jewel (Blackberry)

Lycium Barbarum (Gojiberry)

I am planning on planting them along the same fence line as the passionfruit, which is thriving!

Our weather hasn't been the greatest, Alexandria is still not 100%, she has mastered the art of snoring these past few days. Yesterday, we sat on the bed and braided her hair. It means she has a few days of not having to worry about it, until it comes to having to take the braids out. It took us a couple of hours but it made her happy.

Joshua went to Tokoroa to spend a couple of weeks with his Nana & Poppa today. Walter's brother Frankie and his wife Cathie were heading back to Taupo after spending a few days in Auckland with there daughter and her partner. So they dropped him off en-route.

Michael is heading to Queenstown and the Pub Charity Rugby Sevens at 5am tomorrow morning, he is currently running around the house packing.

I should have an early night, but the minute I go to bed, I will be picking up my kindle to hopefully finish reading "The Hunger Games" it is an awesome story.

Art - Anna Aspnes (skimboard)

2012-01-05T19:06:00.002+13:00

Skimboard

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Always Layered Template

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette MiniKit No 4

Art - Anna Aspnes (Footprints)

2012-01-04T08:57:00.000+13:00

Footprints

Created Using:

Oscraps - Cozy (Anna Aspnes contribution)

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Everyday

Anna Aspnes - Different Strokes 6

Anna Aspnes - Hipster Plumes 26

Cluedo

2012-01-03T17:23:00.000+13:00

and the "Cluedo" wars begin. I don't know how many games these four have played this afternoon, but it is quite a few. It is funny listening to them as they suss out strategies to win. I remember having this game as a child and my brother and I were good at it, mum taught us well!

Alexandria has been sick since last night, she has high temperatures, a sore throat and stomach ache. I decided she is big enough in both age and size, to start taking paracetamol capsules instead the paracetamol liquid for kids. I don't know what she has, but will keep an eye on her. Hopefully it is just a quick passing bug and tomorrow she will wake up a box of birds.

I have just started reading "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins on my kindle. My interest was first sparked when Daniel and I went and saw Breaking Dawn at the movies. The trailer to "The Hunger Games" movie was also shown and it looked good. I thought I will read this before the movie is released then my plan is to read "The Game Of Thrones" books after my girlfriend Liz highly recommended them.

Speaking of Liz, she came and visited us just before Christmas with her gorgeous kids.

Naoya, Sana and Emi

Michael made a special trip home from work at lunchtime to see Liz as they only come back to NZ once a year, the kids were drawn to him like the pied piper.

Just before Christmas the daughter of very good friends of ours Michele & Greg, asked me to take some photos of her and her sister for Michele for Christmas. We had to postpone a couple of times because of the weather, but when we finally got out for the shoot we had a ball and I managed to capture some amazing moments between these two.

Siobhan & Claudine

OK it is a Family dinner night. I have already eaten the roasted onions, just waiting for the rest of the vegetables before I start carving the meat. I can smell it as I type and am salivating.

Happy Birthday Joshua

2012-01-02T20:09:00.002+13:00

today is Joshua's 15th birthday. On Friday, Walter and I took him out in the hope of finding him a gift, our first stop was a music store where he dreamed of owning whilst playing a $36,000 baby grand piano. Well that is NOT coming home any time soon. We were honestly getting nowhere so we ended up taking him to lunch and coming home empty handed.

By yesterday, I was stressing over what to buy him, I had no clues nor did he. Daniel and I went out as I thought we would just buy him bits and pieces that he needs and put them in a basket. We ended up buying him a mini wheelie rubbish bin which we filled up to half way with plastic bags, then we added the board game Cludeo, a packet of potato chips, a couple of bottles of blood orange drink, a couple of packets of biscuits, some face scrub, face wipes, spot ointment, razors and razor blades, PK chewing gum, udon noodles, miso soup, box of chocolates, a phone card, and last but not least a $5.00 which was what he ended up telling us he wanted.

he was pretty stoked with his stash :)

"Happy 15th Birthday Joshua"

Love you lots and lots xx

Art - Anna Aspnes (sunday night markets)

2012-01-02T14:40:00.001+13:00

Sunday Night Markets

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template No 17

Anna Aspnes - Distressed ToolSet No 3

Anna Aspnes - Hipster Plumes No 16

Anna Aspnes - UpcycledART Paperie No 5

Project 2011 - Lesson 4 Deep and Beyond

2011-12-31T08:30:00.000+13:00

My wrist is on the mend, if I keep taking it easy and don't over do it - I am sure it will be 100% by 2012. Which is a joke, as in a matter of hours 2012 will be upon us, the start of a new year. The start of new moments captured, and more memories recorded.

This week, I took on Project 2011 Layered Template 4 and I think I have beaten it! I have never really been into journalling, but slowly as I move through this workshop. I am learning and gaining more confidence to write what is going on, to say how I am feeling and to express myself with words.

I am really excited with the way Alexandrias' book is progressing, and I am looking forward to getting stuck into the next workshop Project 2011 Template No 5 . For now, until next week...

I wish you the Love of friends and family

and Peace within your heart.

I wish you Health

so you may enjoy each day in comfort.

I wish you the Beauty of Nature

that you may enjoy the work of God.

I wish you Wisdom to choose priorities

for those things that really matter in life.

I wish you Generosity so you may share

all good things that come to you.

I wish you Happiness and Joy

and Blessings for the New Year.

I wish you the Best of Everything

that you so well deserve.

Happy New Year!

mouthguard

2011-12-30T20:08:00.004+13:00

Our weather is absolute crap, it has been pouring down most of the day, and doesn't seem to be letting up. I am just hoping that we don't flood like others have.

The Harbour Sevens team had training games today against Northland in Mahurangi. I left Christopher and Alexandria at home with Joshua as there was no point in taking them in this weather. Daniel and I however, accompanied Michael. We got up to Mahurangi and within a few minutes of Michael taking the field we were searching for an accident and emergency clinic. He didn't wear his mouthguard and ended up getting a boot to the mouth

the moment the teeth went through the upper lip

We drove back into Warkworth and found a medical centre, where we were turned away, they said they were too busy to treat out of towners, yet there was no-one in the waiting room??? As we left someone on the street pointed out Kowhai Surgery, so we popped in there and even though the waiting room was chocker, they saw Michael straight away. What an awesome experience, the nurses and doctors were fabulous!

and the moral of the story is "Wear Your Mouthguard"!

after christmas update

2011-12-29T18:45:00.000+13:00

Our Taro and the Watermelon plant - I am so thrilled with the way the Taro is growing, neither Walter or I know how to grow it or what we are doing, it may actually be time to "google"

I transplanted the corn after we ate the lettuce, giving it more room to grow.

The Triffids - Potatoes and Tomatoes

Apparently I have to wait until the flowers die on the potatoes before I start harvesting, but again I am not 100% - google will be my friend in this instance as well, or my Yates Vegetable Garden book.

Boxing Day here in NZ is normally a non event, we chill out whilst cleaning up after Christmas Day. This year we decided to check out the shops and the Boxing Day Sales. Unfortunately most of Auckland decided to do the same. We went up to Albany Mall and just driving to the Mall was a mission so we drove straight through the back roads and headed to Glenfield Mall. We managed to find a car park, and had a wander around, but there were just so many people, it was crazy. On the way home, we stopped in at Good Guys and Walter bought me a Lowepro Passport Sling Camera Bag. It is cool and a little more feminine than the Slingshot 202 I already own.

The rest of this week has been pretty quiet. Walter has only taken off the statutory days, so he returned to work yesterday (Wednesday), I spent the day doing family tree research on and off whilst attacking the pigsty Christopher and Alexandria call there bedroom.

Ex cyclone Fina is starting to rear it's ugly head, it has been a doomy gloomy day outdoors, and the heavens have just opened and it is pouring down. My gardens will be loving all this additional water, but we sure aren't.

Christmas Day

2011-12-26T09:44:00.004+13:00

For the first time in years I didn't host Christmas Day, we went to Laurence and Angelina's here in Auckland. It was great to see all the cousins together having fun.

The Boys - Tremain (red t-shirt), Lynx, Joshua, Michael, James, Daniel and Christopher

Nana

Poppa

Christmas Lunch

We had a great day returning home late last night exhausted. We were asked to stay, but I don't drink and I like my own bed so we came home.

Art - Anna Aspnes (from here to there)

2011-12-24T21:35:00.002+13:00

FROM THERE TO HERE

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Grow Like Weeds Layered Template

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Everyday

@ Oscraps

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:30:00.002+13:00

Christmas Eve at Campbells Bay Beach. Fish and Chips, and good old fashioned family fun.

Wishing everyone an absolutely fabulous Christmas, may it be filled with much love and laughter.

Art - Anna Aspnes (Merry Christmas)

2011-12-24T11:39:00.002+13:00

Merry Christmas

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - White Paint No1

Anna Aspnes - Silver Snowflakes No1

Anna Aspnes - Retro Holiday Add On Brush

Anna Aspnes - ScriptTease Gratitude

Anna Aspnes - Painted Photo Blendz 5

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Retro Holiday

Anna Aspnes - LoopDaLoop Star 1

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Solids Retro Holiday

Project 2011 - Lesson 3 QuoteBlendz and Lists

2011-12-24T06:59:00.001+13:00

My wrist is still not good, so doing normal tasks hasn't been easy this week, it is funny the little things we take for granted. But Anna's lesson 3 was calling, if you haven't grabbed it, it is available HERE. When I first perused the lesson I was intimidated but her instructions were easily understandable and once I started following them I really enjoyed the process.

I didn't clip a photo to the QuoteBlendz as I wanted to keep it simple, I tried clipping a paper to it but it lost its impact. I loved how it turned out and know I will be using that technique again. Page two was even more fun. The photo I originally intended to use I couldn't find as the website it was on has now been deleted :( I thought I had screen captured it many years ago but it seems to be evading me.

I loved creating this page, I clipped a paper to the photo mask on the template and then added the photo of Alexandria which I masked so that the background wasn't showing. Once I had achieved that I changed the photo to black and white then blended it into the background paper which was from Anna's' Artsy Blendz Snow Paperie No 2.

Wishing you all A Very Merry Christmas, I hope you have a fun filled day full of much love and laughter. Take Care and I will be back with Lesson 4 next week. If you want to make a head start it is available HERE

strawberry jam

2011-12-20T08:22:00.002+13:00

I have always wanted to make some strawberry jam, and with the cheap strawberries at the Sunday Night Markets it was too inviting not to try. 3 punnets of strawberries was approximately 1kg and I had bought 10 punnets.

Alexandria removed the greenery, and roughly chopped them into a large saucepan

Joshua then mashed them with the potato masher, then I added 1kg sugar

Daniel then dissolved the sugar over a low heat whilst stirring

once the sugar was dissolved, it was easier to stir (remembering I am a one handed bandit at the moment) so I bought the whole lot to boil until it reached setting point

then I poured into jars. 1kg made 2 jars.

It is so delicious - the family was already eating it last night.

wrist

2011-12-19T14:48:00.000+13:00

I am still not 100% the stupid voltaren (anti inflammatories) that the doctor prescribed had reeked havoc with my stomach, even after making sure I ate before taking the stupid things. I hate pills, but my hand was so swollen I thought I had better do as I was told for once in my life. Today (Monday) the swelling seems to have subsided quiet a bit, but there is still pain in my wrist although I don't know which pain is worse - my wrist or stomach.

We went to Sevens on Saturday to watch Michael play for North Harbour in the Northern Regions Mini Sevens Tournament. He played out of his skin and deservedly has gained a spot in the North Harbour Sevens team going to the NZ Nationals in Queenstown in January.

Congratulations Michael - we are super proud, happy and excited for you x

Above are a few photos of him during Saturdays action ... the rest of the photos can be found HERE

Daniel also played in a Sevens tournament for Glenfield in Waitemata, his team won the plate final! Unfortunately we couldn't get to his Waitemata in time to watch him play.

Standing O

2011-12-19T09:12:00.001+13:00

Standing O 18/12

Teddy Bears Picnic

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template No 40

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Solids Retro Holiday

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Retro Holiday

Anna Aspnes - Magic Sprinklez No 2

Thanks Jacqueline!

Project 2011 - Lesson 2 Quotations

2011-12-17T08:00:00.000+13:00

I am pretty much out of action, as I have done something to my hand, which is swollen and extremely painful. Daniel took me to Accident and Emergency this morning as I am unable to drive. We saw a lovely doctor who sent me for X-rays. These were inconclusive, so she decided to put my wrist into a splint, and my arm in a sling to help with the reduce swelling. She has given me painkillers and anti inflammatories. I have been told to do nothing for 48 hours at which both Daniel and I laughed. I am the mother of 5, and had been told to do nothing!!! Dream On! When we laughed she actually growled us, and said this is serious putting Daniel and I in our place.

I have done some work this week on my Project 2011 Anna Style. After reading through the Lesson 2 - Quotations which is available here I collected my photos and started placing them on the template Anna provided. I was being a bit of a perfectionist, but then decided to not to stress so much when creating. The photos had a lot of yellow in them due to the lighting, so I went with that color scheme for these pages using Anna's Art Play No 1.

I use words from the garments Alexandria was wearing, on my page as they were parts of the collection she was modeling. Then I wrote a story telling Alexandria how her modelling came about.

I am super happy with this, Anna has really helped me express myself and I can't wait for more. Adding the odd word here and there really helps to tell the story. I showed Alexandria the pages last night and read her the story, she loved it and can't wait for more.

I am sorry this week is so brief but i am not great at this left one handed typing business. I hope everyone is well and that you are enjoying following along with me. I would love to see your projects, if you would like to drop me a link my contact details are HERE

end of year concerts

2011-12-13T21:20:00.000+13:00

Walter, Joshua and I are just back from Alexandria and Christophers' End Of Year Concerts. They were both absolutely fabulous! Christopher was actually involved in all four concerts because he is a member of the schools Kapa Haka group. Michael and Daniel didn't attend due to having Tag games.

Christopher performing the Haka with his Kapa Haka Group.

Walter and Alexandria watching

Alexandria and one of her best mates - Jennifer.

I took a little video of Christopher performing the haka tonight. (If you cannot view the video here please try this link) ENJOY!

I was back on the phone to Orcon today, as we have hit 655 disconnects so far this month (our billing cycle finishes on the 22nd). I was told again that they have changed the settings at there end to a "safe setting" and that now the issue should be rectified - ha ha I have heard this before and it has done diddly squat, so obviously I will be back on the phone to them tomorrow. I have wasted so much time trying to sort out the issues we are having with our phone and internet, that I am about to admit defeat and am looking at other options.

helicopter christmas tree

2011-12-13T07:58:00.001+13:00

a couple of weeks ago a helicopter was used to aid in the installation of the Telecom Christmas Tree on Te Wero Island, whilst the installation was happening the helicopters rotor blade caught something and the helicopter crashed. The pilot amazingly was shaken but not hurt.

Last night, we had my cousins' daughter Rachel and her partner Jamie visit for dinner, it was an awesome evening, just a pity it wasn't for longer. When Daniel and I took them back into the city, we decided to take a detour - actually we took a couple of detours (one unexpected), the first was to the Telecom Christmas Tree, that is now referred to as the "Helicopter Tree" because of the above.

It was bitterly cold, and very quiet down at the tree on Te Wero Island, so we had free reign but the weather soon had us running back for the warmth of the car.

The Tree

Under the tree is old fashion telephone boxes, which are direct lines to Santa

Rachel jumped in and gave the man in the big red suit a ring, she was less than impressed with his voice.

Lying on the bean bags under the tree looking up (so pretty and peaceful)

We then headed up to Rachel & Jamies' hotel, dropped them off and headed to the Harbour Bridge onramp which was CLOSED and a detour was in place. We went back where we had come from around the block an up through Ponsonby. The problem with that is there were heaps of cars trying to get on the motorway at the same time, so it was extremely slow moving. We did eventually make it home :)

PS Photos taken on my iPhone

night markets

2011-12-11T20:23:00.001+13:00

A Sunday Night Market opened last month at Westfield Glenfield, tonight we finally got around to investigating it ...

It was incredible, the divine smells of the food cooking hit us first, then the crowds, it is quiet flamboyant and definitely an awesome experience.

the food is so cheap and there is a huge selection of stalls to chose from, which is probably why it is so busy. There is definitely something for everyone.

We will definitely be visiting again! Our weather is just starting to pack in, apparently we are in for a wet week - great for the garden if nothing else. Speaking of my vegetable garden, I picked our first lettuce from it today, and used it in Michaels chicken rolls when he returned home from Sevens training. Michael, Alexandria and Christopher can all have it in rolls for lunches tomorrow as well.

I am off to read my book, I started reading Dianne Duvall's latest offering "Night Reigns" this morning and it is seriously as good as her first book "Darkness Dawns". Nothing is going to get achieved until I finish this book, she is that addictive a writer.

sevens

2011-12-10T19:39:00.001+13:00

What an awesome but long day out! We attended the Black 28 Sevens tournament where Michael made his debut playing for the North Harbour Sevens team.

Alexandria found a food stall selling Prawn Kebab and Mussell Fritters. The prawns were for herself, the fritters for her father.

Walter and Daniels possie for the duration of the tournament. The car was parked right behind them, so they had easy access to the picnic basket in it. The only problem being that they managed to flatten the car battery, so we need to get a friend to jump start us when it was time to come home.

The Glenfield Rugby Boys playing for North Harbour - Jack, Rangi and Michael.

Check out the frown! Michael did extremely well. He is thriving from the knowledge being shared with him from seasoned experienced players in the squad, but he is very hard on himself.

We are all very proud of him making it this far!

Project 2011 - Lesson 1 Six Word Stories

2011-12-10T08:09:00.000+13:00

I have been reading and re-reading Annas' Project 2011 Lesson 1 and thinking to myself, can I pull out now? as I am really feeling overwhelmed. But then I read through slowly, clicking on all the links Anna provided in the lesson and I think I can pull this off. I really enjoyed the Six Word Stories site for inspiration, it is so cool and it is amazing what stories can be told with just six words. The three word movie really bought it home to me, just how much I over analyze.

Here is the title page to my book, created starting with the template Anna provided in Lesson 1. I will be honest and say I have never been very good at sticking to templates. But I am actually quiet proud of it! I have to remember to "KISS" - Keep It Super Simple and to let my six word story tell you what my book is about.

And if you didn't get the gist of it from my six word story, my book is going to be for our daughter Alexandria (hence the big "A"). It is going to tell the story of her modeling experiences for Trelise Cooper Kids from 2006 through to 2009. Trelise has since discontinued her range of childrenswear, so whilst it is still fresh in my memory I want to capture and record the moments.

My Cover was Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette No 12

Anna Aspnes - 12x12 Polka Dot Edges

Anna Aspnes - Project 2011 Template 1

So how are you doing? What did you think of this lesson? Were you overwhelmed? Do you like to journal? Or do you take the easy road and let your pictures tell the story? You can upload your cover page to the gallery at the Oscraps HERE. See you next week with Lesson 2.

internalising a really complicated situation in my head lol

2011-12-09T07:42:00.001+13:00

Welcome to my silly season, we aren't just contending with Christmas, we also have the end of the school year, heaps of sport and functions coming out of our ears - Oh and not forgetting our ongoing issues with our internet/telephone provider!

Daniel finished school a few weeks ago, Joshua finishes at lunchtime today after a short prize giving. Then their school officially shuts down until the end of January, when we will be forking out for new uniforms and god knows what else, as it is the schools 50th Jubilee.

Christopher and Alexandria finish next friday (16th) they learnt on Tuesday who there teacher for 2012 will be and what classroom they are in. Christopher will be in Year 6 (his final year at primary school) and in Room 11, Alexandria will be in Year 4 and in Room 10. At least there classrooms are close :)

They both have there Christmas Concerts on Tuesday evening, which is always an awesome evening out. There are four concerts depending on what year your child is in. Christopher is performing at all four concerts with the kapahaka group, so he is going to be well past his used by date by the end of the evening. They are both starting to bring home the artwork they have created during the year, there are some really cool pieces I am hanging out to get my mitts on.

This weekend Michael is due to debut for the North Harbour Sevens team. So we are heading to Suburbs Rugby club tomorrow where the Black 28 Sevens tournament is being held. It should be an awesome day out.

I spent the day up at the rugby club on Wednesday cleaning, there is so much to be done! I figure if "Do It Right the first time" then it won't have to be done again. I have removed literally thousands of staples from the beams, doors, walls, you name it there are staples! We are having a function there next Friday, which is also the first time the club has been opened since the new crew took over. We have one small hiccup that the chiller in the main bar not working due to this weeks fire, but when there is a will there is a way!

Daniel is finally home, he returned last night from OPC. He thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. The programme involved him taking part in activities such as bush-craft, navigation, mountaineering, rock climbing, abseiling, camp-craft, caving and mountain adventure based learning. All the participants work together as a group during the programme, learning about the environment, teamwork, communication, decision making, accepting challenges, facing fears and above all that life is a fun-filled adventure. Last night he slept on Mt Ruapehu.

There has been an advertising campaign on the television here ... an anti drink driving campaign that has gone viral, it is actually bloody good and has been a huge hit.

the quotes taken from the ad have been numerous, I personally love "internalizing a really complicated situation in my head" but the kids all love "ghost chips". Alexandria is always leaving us little drawings around the house, this one she left on her dads desk

Ghost Chips :) lol - I love the way she thinks!

fire

2011-12-06T19:16:00.001+13:00

as I sit here on hold waiting for Orcon technical support to answer the phone, I will blog whilst I have a internet connection. We are now standing at 429 disconnections in 13 days! We rarely have a home telephone that works, and when it is working it is only brief.

I received a call from Cathie, the secretary of Glenfield Rugby advising me that there was a fire at the club. I freaked out, because Joshua and I had been working in the kitchen this afternoon. Then I started questioning the work we had done, and if we could have been the cause of it. I jumped in my car which I had cleaned thoroughly when we returned from the club, only to find I had a flat battery. So I jumped into Daniels car, and get this ... his car had a flat battery as well. In the end I had to wait for Walter to get home to jump start my car, so that I could get up to the club. Upon arriving we were greeted by a fire engine, the fire had been extinguished by this time.

Apparently someone had been seen having a cigarette up the back of the clubrooms, they must not have put it out properly and thrown it in some of the leaves that had accumulated by the back stairs that lead into behind the bar. The fire completely killed the refrigeration compressor, so there is no way of keeping the bar chiller cool, it is a complete replacement job.

just before we left to head home, Christopher said mum take a photo ...

as only Christopher would.

I have now been on hold for 28 minutes, a technician turned up at the house this afternoon trying to get me to sign a document stating the work he had performed was to be charged to myself. I refused to sign the document, as there wasn't a problem with our internet or phone until we changed over to the Orcon Genius. The technician told me to ring Orcon and get them to change me back to regular phone and not this VoiP system which he thinks is the issue. Yay Adam from Orcon has just answered the phone I am trying really really hard to stay cool and calm, collected went out the door last month.

weeds

2011-12-05T18:49:00.001+13:00

I actually achieved today - a lot. With the internet connection being so unreliable, I decided to catch up on the laundry and whilst waiting for a load to finish washing, I starting pulling weeds. I ended up clearing a whole garden which was an over grown mess, so was absolutely stoked.

Tomorrow, I would love to attack garden number two but I will wait and see. It is also an overgrown nightmare full of weeds and agapanthus.

The passionfruit vine is slowly growing, and has hooked itself on the mesh.

Christopher doing his homework, or not. He was trying to watch You Tube, note the trying.

I have been on the phone again today to Orcon technical support but I seem to be running around in circles. I am going to ring every single day until I see some action. We have just hit last months total of disconnections 405 in 13 days, which is not good enough. The thing is we have been with Orcon for 3 years, and have never had any issues until we changed over to this new fang dangled Genius service - which is supposed to be more cost effective. Yeah right! Cost effective because we are so frustrated with the disconnections, that we don't use the internet or in the case of the males in this house - the playstation.

raining pouring not even mentioning snoring

2011-12-04T16:59:00.001+13:00

the rain just hasn't let up today, I had to postpone a photo shoot booked for tonight which was a huge disappointment, as I was really looking forward to it. But on the bright side, at least tonight I don't have to water the garden.

We have been having internet and home phone issues, this month we are heading for a disconnection record. Last month we had a total of 405 disconnections. In the first 12 days of this month we are up on 364, with the daily record being taken out yesterday, to the tune of 88 disconnections. We have been with this service provider since November 2008, but in September we changed to there new Genius plan and since then we have had nothing but technical issues. Our biggest problem is the phone doesn't work if there is no internet connection. So if we are on the phone and the internet goes down, we get cut off from our call. I have rung and spoken to technical support, they have sent out two technicians who have only made matters worse. I wish I could get just one person to deal with the problem instead of having to start from scratch every phone call. They send me surveys after each call asking "how are we dealing with this problem" and every time I reply "you haven't". You would think they would reply but alas no! To say I am disappointed is an understatement. Highly pissed off is more appropriate.

Thank goodness for my shiny new iPhone. I have been sussing out applications today and having a bit of a play. It has taken a bit of getting used to, but it is seriously cool!

Daniel left this morning for his course, he was a bit rushed as he slept in as long as he could. He must of known it was probably the last decent sleep he would get for a few days.

Art - Anna Aspnes (2011 book cover)

2011-12-04T15:04:00.001+13:00

The Cover to My 2011 Book

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Year In Review Single Layered Template No 1

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Thankful Heart

Art - Anna Aspnes (christmas cake)

2011-12-04T11:36:00.001+13:00

Christmas Cake

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Sweet Christmas

fish n chips

2011-12-03T19:10:00.001+13:00

there is nothing like fish and chips at the beach! then a bit of fun in the water afterwards

Alexandria

Christopher just before he hurt his foot

Joshua stayed up where we had dinner

Daniel

Michael laughing because he got dumped.

It wasn't very warm thanks to coastal wind. But we all enjoyed ourselves which is the main thing. Tomorrow morning, Daniel is leaving us for the Sir Edmund Hilary Outdoor Pursuits Leadership course in Turangi. He will have an experience of a lifetime and is due home late Thursday evening.

I can see there will be peace and quiet in the house this week.

I went to the garden centre today AGAIN. The good thing is they don't know me by name yet. I picked up some little tags to label a few things in the garden but I got carried away whilst doing it. Walter calls this my "graveyard" ha ha

so this is where everything is currently at. My potatoes are doing extremely well, as are my tomatoes. The lettuce are huge and taking up most of the garden. The taro is doing really well and every plant had good leaves. My edamame is plant in the green tubs with the wire thingie.

It is time for me to go and whip some cream to smother on top of our dessert - pavlova, cream and strawberries. I love summer food!

Art - Anna Aspnes (2010 christmas hangi)

2011-12-03T14:36:00.001+13:00

2010 Christmas Hangi

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Holiday Layered Template

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Santa Nicholas

Project 2011 Workshop - Introduction & Preparation

2011-12-03T08:59:00.000+13:00

I hope everyone has found the time to read through Anna's Project 2011 Introduction and Preparation. If you haven't it is available HERE in Annas' Oscraps Store. If you have I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts. I have been thinking about what sort of album I would like to create.

A few years ago, I made a book for our son Daniel it told the visual story of his rowing escapades. Daniel stepped out of his comfort zone and took on the challenge of learning to row. He blew everyone away by tackling it full on with energy and vigour. We were all so proud of him, and the photography opportunities were absolutely awesome.

If you have had a little time to have a peek at his book, do you see what I mean by it was a visual story. Just quietly, I was pleased to read that Anna isn't hiding the fact that she struggles with the writing component when creating her art. I definitely struggle in that department. I think in the 5 years I have been creating my art, I have only created a handful of layouts that actually have journalling on them. I love quotes and use them frequently, but more often than not I "let my pictures tell the story" - lame excuse Huh!

I said way back when I created Daniels book, that I wanted to create a book for each of our five children, something they will have to treasure forever. Life has managed to get in the way and I have totally missed the boat. This time around I will put my heart into it, it is time to tell another story. I will think seriously over the weekend and decide on whose and what story I want to tell. There are two that come to mind. I need to go through my photos as I am sure they will help me decide. You can see my photo organisation method HERE

It is time to have some fun, the beauty of this workshop is that we can work at your own pace or we can work together. My personal goal is to post weekly on a Saturday morning my time (New Zealand). If you want to work along with me I would love the company. You can share your created pages in the Oscraps Gallery HERE or on your own blog but please remember to link us up. If you need me or have any questions please click on the Contact Me tab at the top of this page.

If you want to look ahead and see what we are going to accomplish, you can view Anna's completed book HERE.

This is a NO STRESS project, so lets have some fun!

it is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas ...

2011-12-02T20:53:00.001+13:00

or a little bit like Christmas? It is sneaking up on me and I feel it is going to bite me on the bum. I have done no planning or shopping and now have 23 days!

We actually got the tree out of the shed on the weekend, but just haven't had the time until a combined effort today to assemble and decorate it.

I have been busy online, working behind the scenes for Anna, and creating a flyer for the forthcoming Christmas function at the rugby club then uploading it everywhere. Tonight Walter attended a coaches meeting, so now I have some dates to work with and that I can add to the club calendar.

Our replacement chest freezer was delivered this morning - yay! Now to fill it.

Joshua bought home the cake he has been creating and icing in food technology at school. It is cute, not sure I want to eat it, I might leave that to iron stomach Daniel.

waterwise

2011-12-01T16:57:00.001+13:00

Christopher started Waterwise today on Lake Pupuke, they went through preliminaries then went out on the water in a kayak. They paddled out to a buoy, then had to do a capsize, towing there kayak back to the lakes edge. Daniel helped ensured they got into the kayak correctly, whilst I photographed :)

this photo was taken straight after he gave me a big wet cuddle.

This evening Christopher had touch rugby, Alexandria has decided she no longer wants to play. The organization of her team is shocking. One week the coach is there and the next he isn't. There team is never mentioned in the school newsletter, and communication is rare. Her team has one training 30 minutes before the game each week, which is absolutely pointless. So much for making it fun and getting the kids involved.

Christopher in action. Unfortunately times clashed tonight, Michael and Daniels tag football was whilst Christopher's team was playing, so something had to give and it was the older boys sport.

papa smurf

2011-12-01T09:04:00.001+13:00

99% of the school year mornings the principal of Christopher and Alexandrias' school meets and greets the students in the bus bay. Yesterday he did the meet and greet but dressed up as Papa Smurf. It is a yearly thing he does to thank the community for getting in behind the school, and the character is voted on my the student. Last year he dressed us as Avatar.

He is such a great sport, and I respect the fact that he takes time out to meet and greet each child that arrives at school through the front gates.

Daniel and I had to go down to Noel Leeming yesterday, as we finally heard back from the insurance company and they have approved our claim for the freezer. Our new chest freezer is being delivered on Friday :)

I did a photo shoot last night for my sister in law ...

James, Jonelle, Sam, Jacob (Sams' Son), Opal and Lanieta

It was an insane evening as everyone was coming and going, Michael had Harbour Sevens training, and Daniel had Glenfield Sevens training and Walter was working late. By the time we sat down for dinner it was 8pm! Thank goodness I had done a pasta for the boys pre-training.

long exhausting day

2011-11-29T18:08:00.001+13:00

I spent the day at the Sovereign Stadium supporting Alexandria, who was representing her school at the inter school athletics.

the day started off at 10.15am with Sprints, first 100m then 60m.

at 11am there was a Softball Throw, followed by High Jump at 11.45am.

I bought Daniel home at lunchtime as he was bored, but I was thoroughly enjoying myself. Returning in time for the Long Jump. Then the final relays of the day.

Alexandria did extremely well in both her High Jump and Long Jump events, coming fourth overall but first out of her school competitors.

When we returned home at the conclusion it was only briefly as our nephew James had his final touch rugby game so we went along to support him.

His team won which was awesome.

Since coming home I haven't stopped, I have been cooking dinner, and multitasking as per normal I managed to get hold of someone at Orcon regarding our internet/phone. They seriously need to sort out our phone and internet connection issues as I am totally over it. I can't make one call without getting disconnected and frustration has now taken it's toll. The lady I spoke with informed me she has put through an urgent request to the technicians. I WILL be following it up each and every day until I am satisfied it has been fixed.

It is now time to go and finish cooking dinner, so I can put my feet up for the rest of the evening.

garden update

2011-11-28T18:18:00.001+13:00

We spent a lot of time in the garden on the weekend, moving plants and preparing the new garden.

The beans & the corn we planted in the windowsill greenhouses last weekend have definitely done there thing, so they have all now been transplanted into the vegetable garden.

the new garden courtesy of Kirsten is now operational, we transplanted all the herbs into it, and the abovementioned beans.

After the triffids we grew last year we decided only to plant two tomato plants this year. They are taking off, and for the first time ever, I am remembering to take out the laterals.

Our potato plants are thriving as well. I am so pleased with how everything is growing!

After moving all the herbs, it freed up some space in the deeper garden to plant the taro and the corn, we also added watermelon and capsicum. Alexandria planted some lettuce seeds into the windowsill greenhouses.

Yesterday, I spent more time on the rugby clubs website, Walter took a look at it and was blown away by how much I have achieved and loved the new easy to navigate look. It was the encouragement I needed. Daniel and I returned to the club and cleaning today, we started the mammoth task of cleaning out the kitchen.

I am getting really frustrated with our internet and phone. We changed over to Orcon Genius a few months ago - last month we had 405 disconnections, if the internet is down so is our phone. I have done nothing but complain and I thought finally the issue had been resolved, but it hasn't, as in the last six days we have had 122 disconnections! Walter and I even went as far as cutting palm fronds that were touching the line coming into the house, but it hasn't changed a thing. I can deal with the internet going down, what I can't deal with is the phone line being so unreliable.

Art - Anna Aspnes (dessert)

2011-11-28T17:13:00.000+13:00

Dessert

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Gather
Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Solids Gather Paperie

Art - Anna Aspnes (lifes a beach)

2011-11-26T15:54:00.000+13:00

Life's A Beach

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template 39

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Thankful Heart

Anna Aspnes - Striped Edge Overlay 1

Art - Fhung Of Ztampf!

2011-11-26T15:51:00.001+13:00

Seasons Greetings

Created Using:

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Elfenoel

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Poltergeist Overlays

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Adventouriste ARTistrokes

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Adventouriste Solids

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Adventouriste Frame It

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Adventouriste ARTistitches

Fhung Of Ztampf! - Appliquette 3

Project 2011 Workshop with Anna Aspnes

2011-11-26T09:05:00.001+13:00

I am starting a journey - a very public one. During the US Summer Anna Aspnes ran "Project 2011" on her blog at the time I was unable to participate. But she has taken all the lessons from her blog and the bonus content from her "AnnaNews" and reformatted it. The intro and pre-work lesson will be available for free. The other 11 lessons which include a co-ordinating layered template, will be available individually and as a bundled product (as pictured above).

The following components and individual lessons (.pdf format) are included in the workshop:

Introduction and Preparation. A free component which provides an overview of the workshop which follows.
Lesson 1 Six Word Stories. Create a title page using 6 words.
Lesson 2 Quoted. Use quotes and the spoken words of others.
Lesson 3 QuoteBlendz and Lists. Explore the use of QuoteBlendz and lists.
Lesson 4 Deep and Beyond. Learn to dig deeper and widen the scope of your stories.
Lesson 5 Say What You Feel. Select the most fitting words.
Lesson 6 Repeat Outside the Box. Use repetition and move beyond double-page spreads.
Lesson 7 Creative Stories within Stories. Present your stories more creatively.
Lesson 8 Past and Present. Combine stories from the present with those from your past.
Lesson 9 A Question of Perspective. Tell stories from different perspectives.
Lesson 10 Comparison of Perspectives. Compare stories from different perspectives.
Lesson 11 One Word Conclusion. Create a concluding page with one word.
A Shutterfly Ready Photo Book Cover Template. Design the cover for your photo book or album.

Anna has also created an Add-on cover and 5 - 12 x 24 Double Page Layered Templates to expand the album from 20 to 30 pages.

These are now available in her store at Oscraps. I am going to be working with these products and blogging my journey. So if you are keen to join me, we can encourage and support each other - watch this space.

kapahaka

2011-11-25T18:51:00.001+13:00

Christopher was performing with his school kapahaka group, at the Onepoto Primary School Kapahaka Festival today, so Daniel and I went along to support him. What an amazing experience! There were around 28 schools performing, on two stages - an indoor one and an outdoor one. The atmosphere was pumping. The organizers were expecting over 5,000 people to attend, and they had catered adequately.

The food stalls were awesome! Daniel had chicken curry and chop suey meal for lunch and I had a hangi, which they had just dug up. It consisted of a chicken drumstick, lamb or mutton, potato, kumara, cabbage and stuffing. I managed to devour the whole plate, it was scrumptious!

When we returned home I edited the photos which are HERE. I don't know what Facebook is doing to them when I upload them, but it kills the quality.

tag

2011-11-24T20:41:00.001+13:00

I went and watched Michael and Daniel playing Tag Football tonight. It is the first time I have ever watched the game, so I wasn't really sure what to expect. It was fast and furious, but thoroughly enjoyable.

My "Jan" rose is blooming again, it is such a beautiful rose with a gorgeous smell.

The weather has been totally deceiving today, we woke to gale force winds, then the rain came and it was miserable. I went into Glenfield Mall as I needed to pick up a couple of things, and whilst there I popped into Telecom as they are now stocking the iPhone. I was talking to the sales consultant, about the plan I was on and found out that I could upgrade. Just as I received the news Hubby rang and after running the deal by him, he gave his okay for me to upgrade, so after a couple of years I now have a shiny new phone and a smart one at that. Now to work out how to drive it.

Published - Scrapbook News and Review

2011-11-24T10:53:00.000+13:00

Scrapbook News and Review

Volume 4 Issue 11/12

Scooter Gal

Created Using:

Lorie Davison - Prince Of The City

@ Scrapbookgraphics

Art - Anna Aspnes (Sevens)

2011-11-24T10:51:00.000+13:00

SEVENS

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template 38

Anna Aspnes - Kardstock Winter 1

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-11-24T10:50:00.001+13:00

Rainbows End

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - The Holiday Album 1

potty

2011-11-23T19:25:00.001+13:00

yup I think I am officially going potty. I have spent the last two days working on the rugby clubs website, I am happy to say that it is coming along in leaps and bounds. I sorted out the newsletter sign up, and I started a google calendar. Check it all out HERE. Today the original web designer made a few alterations for me which modernized the whole site. Now to fill in all the *coming soon* areas.

Daniel and I went to the Warehouse and Garden Centre yesterday, we managed to pick up a couple of big pots for my lemon and lime, so they are now happily repotted.

We also bought a passionfruit vine...

which is also now planted.

Last Night, I got a message from my girlfriend Kirsten, she bought two kitset gardens last year and only used one. So I was allowed to help myself, which I did. Thanks Kirsty!!

Walter and Daniel building the kitset together. I haven't budgeted for the soil or weed mat it needs yet.

My taro plants arrived today - they are currently still sitting in there pots. Timing!

After a lot of hints, I finally gave into Joshua and had his piano tuned and its pitched tested. The tuner dude was impressed that the piano which is well over 100 Years Old was in such good condition. But he said that it will need retuning again in 1-3 months :(

Art - Vinnie Pearce

2011-11-23T19:24:00.000+13:00

Oh What Fun

Created Using:

Vinnie Pearce - Fuchsia Christmas Collection

planting seeds

2011-11-21T16:42:00.001+13:00

Daniel and I went to the garden centre yesterday, to find something to propogate the soy bean seeds I had purchased online in. We found these little Jiffy Easy Windowsill Greenhouses, and whilst there picked up some Dwarf Beans, Honeysweet Corn and Chilli Pepper seeds.

I am not 100% sure about these, but figure if we do what the packaging says we can't go too far wrong.

After soaking the peat pellets in warm water they expanded to just about fill the container, then we planted our seeds. Covering the windowsill greenhouses with the clear lids provided, they now live on the kitchen windowsill.

Watch this space to see how they grow.

I am now waiting on the taro tubers I purchased to arrive, so I can get those planted. I would love to double the size of my garden but at this stage it isn't going to happen. Maybe one day!

This morning I was super organized, I had a list of things I wanted to achieve, but didn't have "sort out buggared freezer" on that list. At some stage our chest freezer died and a lot of the food in it thawed out. I called our friendly service repairman and he came out to have a look and said that the compressor had burnt out, and that there was no point fixing it. He then advised to ring our insurance company and make a claim. Which I did, so hopefully there will be a replacement freezer in the not too distant future. In the meantime I have squashed what didn't thaw into the tiny freezer in our everyday fridge.

Whilst cleaning up after the freezer incident I washed and washed and washed, in total getting 7 loads of laundry on the line, dry in minutes thanks to gale force winds, folded and put away. I love when the washing is up to date.

The winds have done damage to some of my outdoor plants, blowing over my lime and lemon trees. Tomorrow Daniel and I will have to buy a couple of big pots, as I refuse to plant them in the garden where they will get hit with flying rugby balls.

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-11-20T11:17:00.001+13:00

brrrrr

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Winter Frame Transfer 1

Anna Aspnes - Multimedia Snowmen 1

Anna Aspnes - Gold Paint Overlay 1

Anna Aspnes - Stitch By Anna Fall Mix 2

Anna Aspnes - Winter Word Transfers 1

Anna Aspnes - Kardstock Winter 1

Anna Aspnes - Original FotoBlendz No 13

family day out

2011-11-19T17:16:00.001+13:00

with no sporting commitments today, we decided to take the kids out somewhere fun. So we headed South to Rainbows End and what a day it turned out to be!

On the way there we stopped in at Chinatown on Ti Rakau Drive, it was an incredible place but I think it was too early in the day for us to be visiting as it was pretty quiet.

the next stop was Rainbows End where the fun began ...

We started by taking a journey to the centre of the earth in the Motion Master Experience, it was pretty cool. Then it was onto the Goldrush, the queue was so deceiving, we waited for nearly an hour to get the the final part of the Goldrush and that was the goldmine carts ride.

When we got to this point we understood why people were smiling ... it was because this is where you come out to the END of the queue, and you know what a wait those poor people have before the actual ride bit!

from the Gold Rush we walked to this ride called "Power Surge" I decided to take photos and not go on it, Alexandria had no choice as she is just under 130cm the required height for the ride - she was devastated.

Walter and Joshua

Daniel

Christopher and Michael

then I decided to be a big brave girl, as if Christopher could do it then surely I should be able to

... NOT! I don't know what I was thinking, but I do know NEVER AGAIN!

The family then queued up for the newest ride at Rainbows End called the Invader, I had had enough thrills for one day so I passed.

Spot the six of them :) and then again on the Corkscrew Coaster

The Enchanted Forest Log Flume was a nice ride, the whole family went on it .. Joshua and I sat together laughing all the way around.

The family photos at the end of the ride...

The kids all went on the Pirate Ship

from there it was back to the more exciting rides - the Power Surge, Invader and the Corkscrew Coaster. We all had a lot of fun, but when the temperature started dropping it was time to head home, as we had a dinner date with the Takarangi Whanau at there place.

We arrived a little bit late, as we wanted to stop off at home first, but when there we enjoyed a relaxing evening with a delicious BBQ dinner.

breaking dawn

2011-11-17T19:32:00.001+13:00

after sorting through rugby jerseys and socks for a few hours this morning, Daniel and I packed up and went to the movies. I have been hanging out for Breaking Dawn Part 1 to be released and today was the day! It was well worth the wait, I thoroughly enjoyed it, but now the waiting begins again as there is another 363 days until Breaking Dawn Part 2 is released :(

We had Touch Rugby for Alexandria and Christopher this evening, I have decided my days are not long enough. We rushed straight down to Becroft Park where Alexandrias game was kicking off at 3.45pm, but she also had training beforehand which doesn't really work but I am not the coach so will shut up on that one. She plays in a mixed team but her team has been put into a boys competition, so each and every week so far they have been getting a hiding.

Alexandria and Christophers friends were playing on another field at the completion of Alexandrias' game, so we watched a bit of there game before heading home. A couple of hours later we were back down at the fields for Christophers game.

Christophers team is in the same boat as Alexandrias, they are getting a hiding each week. One has to wonder what thought was put into this competition when the sections were decided, if any. The boys are pretty deflated losing week after week. But there has been a huge improvement in there play.

bursting with news

2011-11-16T19:48:00.001+13:00

I have finally launched "Photos By Tracy" on Facebook. I take hundreds of photos almost on a weekly basis at different events. I am constantly asked how they can be viewed. For now, they can be viewed via Photos By Tracy. I haven't worked out the finer details, but they will come.

It has been an insane few days with the kids, there sports and the rugby club. We went and supported James (our nephew) whilst he was playing Touch Rugby on Tuesday afternoon, then it was a mad rush home to cook dinner as I had a Management Committee Meeting up at the rugby club. Because we are all new to the committee and there is so much to go over it went on and on. When I finally got home I was too buggared to do anything other than get into bed!

Wee man smashed into Daniel on the trampoline and kneed himself in the lip, hence the beautiful bruise, it is worse on the other side :(

Last night, I returned to the rugby club to talk to some of the older members, most of whom I know through many years of being involved with the club. I explained to them about my taking control of the communications/media. I pointed out my goals towards the rebuild of the website and they were so supportive and excited! Then Bungy, one of the older most respected members gave me the Grizzlies Legends Ledger, it has never been out of his hands.

In it contains the names of ex Grizzly players who have been made Legends of the Grizzlies. My Dads name is 14th! He has given me the Ledger to copy the Legend of the Grizzlies Oath, and the names of the Legends for the website. Bungy also asked me to write about my dad, whose legend is living on through my brother and I and our families.

Now for some huge news ... Michael has been named in the North Harbour Sevens Training Squad to prepare for the National Seven's in Queenstown in January 2012. Congratulations son, we are absolutely thrilled for you and so proud!

photo shoot and editing

2011-11-14T19:23:00.001+13:00

I have spent most of the day editing photos from the Sevens tournament on Saturday and also from 3 weeks of Alexandria and Christopher's Touch Rugby. I have been trying to think of a way I can share my photos with others - players, parents, actually anyone who is interested, but don't feel as if I am getting anywhere very fast. My funds are limited for something that is currently a hobby, so I have opted for the Facebook Page option. I am not entirely sure about it, but I will give it a go for now, when I am sorted I will share here.

Daniel and I went to the rugby club, as I wanted to take some more photos of the inside of the club for the website. I wanted some of the bar open so got him to put on a Glenfield polo shirt and get behind the bar ...

I buggared up, as I didn't realize until we got home that I should have taken that metal pole in the middle of the bar down. So we will be making another trip to the club to try again but we will wait until after the bar is painted as that is happening shortly.

The Reception Area

looking towards the reception area and bar from the dance floor.

from the other end of the club looking towards the dance floor.

Whilst there Daniel located a rugby jersey which had us both laughing, so we bought it home to show everyone else and will return it tomorrow ...

it was the signature under the logo that had us chuckling - it is Jordans! Years ago he came to NZ on a rugby trip with his Australian club Redlands. He actually stayed with Walters brothers family. We didn't make the connection until Jordan had been with us for about a month. Jordan has now returned to Australia and has recently debuted for the Australian Sevens team. We are so thrilled for him!

working bee

2011-11-13T17:16:00.001+13:00

we attended another working bee at the rugby club this morning, being honest I was shattered and didn't really want to go, but I dragged my butt out of bed and to the clubrooms. Joshua and Alexandria came along with me. Walter and Christopher joined us a bit later. Today we focused on the main part of the clubrooms. Cleaning and rearranging the furniture.

Christopher vacuuming.

I bought home a huge pile of senior rugby jerseys, I have to go through them and work out what is able to be sold to players for training jerseys and what needs binning. I will be heading back to the club during the week to take more photos for the website which I am currently working on, and to do a spot more cleaning.

Michael hurt his foot yesterday so has been useless today, as he is struggling to walk. Looks like physiotherapy will be on the cards for him this week.

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-11-13T17:04:00.001+13:00

Exhausted Possibilities

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Sophistica

Quote: When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven't.

club sevens (lots of pics)

2011-11-12T20:08:00.001+13:00

we spent today running from one field to another watching Michael play for the Glenfield Premier Sevens team and Daniel playing for the Glenfield Under 20s Sevens team. The games were 14 minutes long - 7 minutes each way. The Premiers played four pool games, and the Under 20s played two. The Premiers team came 2nd and the Under 20s team came 3rd. Both of our boys played made us proud!

The Under 20s

The Premier Team

The boys had lots of wonderful family support - Laurence, Linda, James, Opal, Lanieta, Jonelle, Chantelle and Mark! It was awesome to see you all up there. Thanks so much for coming! If you look closely in some of the above photos I can see you :)

It was an awesome day, the weather turned yuck after lunch, and the temperature dropped, so we will probably all be sick in a couple of days as we had all dressed for a beautiful day, but hey shit happens.

Tomorrow we are heading to the club for another working bee. I also have 400 photos of todays action to edit - yeah right! We will just go with the flow.

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-11-11T07:37:00.000+13:00

Cowboy

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Ablaze

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Ablaze Freebie

should I be worried

2011-11-10T20:32:00.001+13:00

that Daniel finished school today for the year and I haven't even thought about Christmas? Well, I have thought about it and even talked with my sister-in-law Linda about it, but I haven't done anything about it. It can go into the too hard basket at the moment. There are too many other things coming up that need my attention first.

I had to shoot up to the club today and sort out the gear for the Under 20s and Premier Sevens teams for the weekend. I had bought most of the gear home, but there were a couple of things missing from the bags. Whilst there I rehung all the Life Members photos that I had bought home to fix.

I decided that we needed a decent meal tonight, the menu was Roasted Lamb, Kumara, Pumpkin, Parsnips and Potatoes with Steam Cauliflower, Broccoli and Carrots. I had to head out to Christopher's touch rugby, so I put the lamb in the oven, everything else was ready to go. I asked Joshua to be put everything else in at the times stipulated which he did apart from the potatoes that decided to hide under a cloth. I did throw them in the oven when we got home, but weren't ready when we dished dinner.

Fingers crossed that tomorrow I hear back from the rugby clubs website designer. I sent through an email this morning asking for some alterations/additions to be made to the site, until they are done I can't really get stuck in.

hair

2011-11-09T19:24:00.004+13:00

Alexandria stayed home again today, she snored so loud last night "like father like daughter" I ended up sleeping in her bed as she was in ours. She seems to be improving but I don't want to take any chances. Daniel ended up taking care of her whilst I was out and about today.

I headed into the club just before lunch to pick up some jerseys for the Under 20s Sevens rugby team. I had to drop them off to a company to get numbers put on them for this weekends tournament. Enroute to dropping them off, I popped into Katrinas' salon Klassique Cuts & Colour as my hair was hideous. Katrina knows me well and the next minute I was at the basin having color stripper put on my hair, then inches cut off it. Once the color was remove it was recoloured and cut again.

I should have had the photo taken as soon as I got home when my hair looked awesome, but I have been running around after the family cooking dinner and cleaning up the house. Then I had to head out in the rain to Christopher's Touch Rugby practice and the supermarket. So the photo is a few hours later after a bit of rain and me fiddling with it.

I took a cool shot of Christopher whilst showing him how to take a photo of me :)

proud of you Daniel

2011-11-08T20:19:00.000+13:00

We are thrilled for Daniel who has been selected to attend the Sir Edmund Hilary Outdoor Pursuits Centre Leadership Course being held this December in Tongariro. The aim of the adventure based course is to assist senior students in taking on responsibilities and leadership roles encouraged at 7th form (Year 13) level. His place on the course is a privilege not a right.

Today was his final full day at school for 2011. He has to return on Thursday afternoon to sit his English exam, but has already gained enough credits to pass NCEA Level 2.

Alexandria was home sick. She has nasty smelling breath, temperatures, and a sore throat. I am keeping an extra close eye on her as believe it or not measles going around. My kids are immunized against it, but apparently it is a mutant variety called wild measles. We received notification that students at our littlest Littles school had been diagnosed, and then today we received notification that one of the older boys may have been exposed between the 30th October and the 4th November.

Check out my garden, I can't believe how much everything is growing...

the first sign of life from my potatoes, as the foliage appears I have to cover it with more soil, to encourage growth.

after last years triffids I have only planted two tomatoes this year.

and half a dozen lettuce, i will plant more in a few weeks. The rest of my plants are herbs - chives, garlic, rosemary, mint, parsley, basil, coriander and thyme. I will eventually move them into pots I think.

Our nephew James was playing Touch Rugby this afternoon at Hato Petera, so Michael, Daniel and I went along to support him.

His team played against and beat a Westlake team.

I started working on the Rugby Clubs website this afternoon, but I am restricted to what I can and cannot do as it was designed by a website designer - however, I will solider on and do the best that I can.

weekend

2011-11-07T14:20:00.001+13:00

It was bitterly cold on Saturday evening, we went outside to light our fireworks, but not before we dusted off the winter woolies and rugged up.

Christopher and Alexandria - our constant source of amusement watching the bigger boys lighting the fireworks, and yes, that is a firework in Alexandria's hand, it was the one and only she was allowed to light herself with her fathers assistance.

We actually had bought two boxes of fireworks, but only set off one as it was cold and windy so not the best conditions to be celebrating - we will save the other for a rainy day!

Whilst waiting for it to get dark outside, Alexandria and I watched the movie Temple Grandin, it was an amazing story about an incredible woman, both Alexandria and I thoroughly enjoyed it. We then watched the movie Mao's Last Dancer. (Alexandria fell asleep soon after it started). I have been wanting to watch it since it was first released back in 2009, Li Cunxin's story was beautiful.

On Sunday morning, our entire household was up early. We headed to the rugby club to assist in a working bee. The whole family got down and dirty cleaning out different areas of the clubrooms along with small group of others.

Christopher, Alexandria and Walter taking rubbish to the bin, with Michael and Daniel heading back from it. Joshua is there somewhere as well! He was in charge of sorting out a huge box of keys working out where they all belong and what they open. Whilst there we caught up with the Osborne Whanau who were at the club due to the North Harbour Touch Rugby Trials.

By the time we got home we were all exhausted, but there was no rest for any of us as we had the Takarangi Whanau coming for a barbecue dinner. We have been trying to catch up with them since the North Harbour rugby season concluded and this was the only free evening we had. The evening was enjoyable, the food was awesome - even if I have to say so myself.

Art - Vinnie Pearce

2011-11-07T10:55:00.000+13:00

Lights Up My Life

Created Using:

Vinnie Pearce - She's A Doll Collection

fireworks

2011-11-05T17:52:00.002+13:00

We had unexpected house guests last night, so it was a bit chaotic organizing everything but we got there in the end. Kate, Anaru and Aidan spent the night with us, whilst enroute to I am not sure where, actually I don't think they are sure either.

After they left, we went for a wander around Glenfield Mall looking at all the Christmas paraphernalia and the fireworks. Tonight we celebrate Guy Fawkes, I don't really know why we celebrate it . I do remember as a child going to big bonfires and burning effigies, but I never really understood why and I didn't really care because it was cool being so close to a bonfire and letting off fireworks. Over the years the true meaning has gone to the wayside thanks to retailers, this year there seems to be more retailers around than ever before, lots of people on the side of the roads selling fireworks from shipping containers. In NZ fireworks cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18 and may only be sold for the four days leading up to and including November 5. However, fireworks are able to be used at any time of year. I did cave and bought some yesterday for the kids as I believe that it is only a matter of time before they are banned completely and the only way we will see them is if we go to public displays.

Another retailer event is Halloween which was on Monday evening. Growing up we never celebrated it, in fact the only time we ever heard of Halloween was when it was mentioned on the television. Therefore our kids have never done the trick or treat thing. On Monday evening we had 2 sets (4 kids in total) turn up at our door, I bet if I had queried them they wouldn't have known why they were doing what they were doing other than to get free lollies!

Michael and Daniel had Sevens training this afternoon at Glenfield, so I went along and did some more work in the Gear Room. Then I snapped a couple of pictures before we came home...

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-11-05T11:14:00.002+13:00

Kiwi Valley Farm

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - 12 x 12 Multi Foto Frames 1

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Solids Scholarly

@ Oscraps

Art - Anna Aspnes (touch rugby 2011)

2011-11-04T10:34:00.001+13:00

Touch Rugby 2011

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Artsy Layered Template No 36

Anna Aspnes - Stitched By Anna Borders No 2

Anna Aspnes - Script Tease Sports 1

and again

2011-11-03T20:37:00.000+13:00

It was an interesting day yesterday, Alexandria stayed home from school as she had an upset stomach, then Daniel came home as his hay fever was really bad and the pill he had taken did nothing to sooth the symptoms. Then due to Michael working during the previous night he was also home. If I hadn't made a jar of chilli jam it would have been a totally unproductive day. I was itching to get back to the rugby club and into the gear room, but it didn't happen until today.

So these are the before photos I took the other day ...

and after getting stuck in today ...

I am thrilled with how much I have achieved, but the list is still as long as my arm. This room isn't finished yet.

This afternoon Alexandria and Christopher had touch rugby, thankfully before the weather packed in (it is absolutely pouring down as I type).

Thursday afternoons are a challenge, Alexandria's team training is 40 minutes before there games. She finishes school at 3pm and has to be down at Becroft Park by 3.05pm. Kick Off is 3.45pm - Dream ON! We will always be late as I can't even get home by 3.05pm on a good day and home is closer than the park. Christopher's trainings are on a Wednesday afternoons at school.

Published - Scrapbook News and Reviews

2011-11-02T13:57:00.003+13:00

I was thrilled to learn I had three Digital Art pages published in

Scrapbook News and Review

Volume 4 Issue #9/10

due to the terms of publication I couldn't share until now.

Blood Sweat Tears

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Palette Barren Sunrise

@ Oscraps

Our Musician
Created Using:
Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Thankful Heart
@ Oscraps

Fairy Dreaming
Created Using:
Fhung Of Ztampf! Phrench Phoebe
@ Scrapbookgraphics

slow progress

2011-11-01T16:28:00.003+13:00

I dropped the kids off at school today, and headed straight to the rugby club, where I started cleaning up and sorting out the Gear Room - there was so much crap stacked everywhere it took me a while to work out where to start.

I managed to spook myself, the rugby club is a huge building, I unlocked the door went in and locked it straight away as I was on my own. I then unlocked the gear room and was happily working away, when all of a sudden I heard this dull banging. Not wanting to open the door I went upstairs and peered out the window. There was a little old lady doing her tai chi with her back against the outside wall to the Gear Room banging against it. I had to giggle to myself as I sneaked back down the stairs and into the room so as not to spook her. As she probably wouldn't have expected me to be there.

after nearly 5 hours slogging ...

(folding rugby jerseys is an extreme time waster)

I think I got about half way in the organizational process, there is still a heck of a lot to sort out. Once everything has a place then I will start a stock take, so we at least know what we have to work with.

On the way home I did the weekly supermarket shop, but the weather has packed in so I got soaked loading it all into my car. I decided to be kind to Christopher and Alexandria and picked them up from school saving them from the downpour, although not saving Alexandrias' straightened hair.

Currently the Roast chicken and potatoes are in the oven. We are having an early dinner as Michael is heading to Hamilton, to work at the Waikato Hospital later this evening. He will either be back in the wee hours of the morning or tomorrow.

clean

2011-10-31T17:38:00.001+13:00

When I say I am going to clean something, I don't do things by halves. This morning, I met up with Cathie at the rugby clubrooms, and whilst she attacked the bar and I attacked the office, the above photos are the then and this is now ...

There is still a lot of work to be done, but Rome wasn't built in a day. By the time we finished I raced down to the fruit shop for salad vegetables, arriving home just before the kids. I was going to return to the club this evening whilst Michael and Daniel are there training, and start on the gear room, but that can wait for tomorrow as it is going to be a mission.

Needless to say other than the laundry, very little else got achieved on the home front.

ginger beer

2011-10-30T19:16:00.001+13:00

A couple of weeks ago I was voted onto the committee of our rugby club (Glenfield). I caught up with the Chairman, the Secretary and another club delegate this morning to have a wander around the clubrooms and see what exactly we have got ourselves into. The place is run down is a bit of a shambles but I am sure with a bit of elbow grease and a few hours, we will ready it for the 2012 season.

I have also started to collate the history of the club, as I feel it is important for future generations to preserve it, and thus far it hasn't really been done. I plan on catching up with a few of the old boys, talking to them and writing down there stories.

Michael bought me an iceblock at the dairy today - a Classic Brewed Ginger Beer one, from The IceBar Co. They are new on the market and are absolutely delicious, so refreshing. It was a strange sensation eating a bottle of Ginger Beer.

Our nephew James ended up spending the weekend with us, Michael and Daniel took him with them out to Waitemata yesterday where there were more Sevens Rugby PreSeason games. Michael is playing for the Glenfield Premier Sevens team and Daniel is playing for the Under 21 Glenfield Sevens team. At some point they played each other - the Under 21s beating the Premiers. The boys all came home with sunburn, and war wounds. Michael has a hematoma on his thigh, and Daniel has done something to his knee, give it a couple of days and I am sure to get a brilliant photo of the bruising.

It has been an absolutely gorgeous day, it got up to around 21ºC, with just a slight breeze. Bring on Summer, although tomorrows forecast is patchy rain.

Standing O

2011-10-30T18:48:00.004+13:00

Standing O 26/10

Heredity

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - Layered Template No 35

Anna Aspnes - Kardstock Neutrals No 1

Thanks Ona!

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-10-30T18:39:00.003+13:00

The Redwoods

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Pumpkin Patch

@ OScraps

paranormal activity

2011-10-29T11:19:00.000+13:00

I have to tell you the story of what happened here last night ...

Our nephew James and Rangi came over last night so all the boys decided to watch Paranormal Activity, projected on the big screen in the lounge. I had gone to our room and Walter came in telling me they were watching this movie. I know how scary it is as have been told by Michael and Walter, so i thought these guys will be sitting on the edge of there seats being big and strong, and just a tiny bit scared but not showing it.

I climbed out Alexandria and Christopher's bedroom window onto the deck, where I tapped my fingers across the ranch slider window. Only Rangi heard it, asking the others if anybody else had. I did it again, and this time they all heard it and they pulled the curtains looking out onto the deck but not opening the door. The next time they opened the door thinking it was a cat. I had hidden around the corner of the deck, so they didn't see me. When they had closed the door and I found a branch on the deck, so scratched that across the window and they ALL heard it - Rangi and James jumping up and moving as far away from the window as possible. I was laughing so hard on the deck I was crying.

Walter knew all along, what I was going to do so went into the lounge to watch - the boys reactions. He wished now he had used his phone to video it, because he said it was the funniest thing he had ever seen. When I eventually got caught they were all a little unsettled, listening to them telling the story had me laughing all over again.

gardening and touch rugby

2011-10-27T20:01:00.000+13:00

I returned to the garden centre today to pick up some compost and decided to pick up a few more plants. I had been procrastinating planting potatoes and after a lot of reading I picked up a pack of two polypropylene potato tubs and some tubers. I also got a Meyer lemon tree and a Kaffir lime tree which I hope to eventually plant in large pots.

my veges and herbs

the potato tubs where I have already planted the tubers, as the shoots grow I will add more compost to cover, and so on and so on. Once the plant is in flower there are side slits in the tubs that a big enough for me to harvest potatoes without damaging the plant. Hopefully we will have new potatoes around Christmas.

I also popped into the supermarket as I am paranoid, the gas leak on the Maui Pipeline has crippled a lot of businesses on the upper North Island. When I went into the supermarket today, it was obvious that bread was in short supply, so I grabbed 6 loaves.

This afternoon was the Touch Rugby season kick off for Alexandria and Christopher. Alexandria's team was playing at 3.45 at her school. So we hung around after school until her game kicked off. Her team is a mixed Year 3 team that has been put into a Year 3/4 boys competition, so they got absolutely hammered.

Then it was home for a quick break, before heading to Becroft Park for Christophers touch rugby game. His team is a Year 5 boys team and they played a Year 6 Boys from there school team losing to them 7-0.

Michael, Walter and Daniel watching the game :)

I finished reading my latest book "Hotel Vendome" by Danielle Steele, loved it, as I didn't have to think too hard whilst reading it, so now I am looking forward to finding something else to start tonight.

I think it is bed for me now, I am exhausted from my first dose of sun today :)

Art - Anna Aspnes

2011-10-26T18:47:00.004+13:00

Time Flies

Created Using:

Anna Aspnes - ArtPlay Encapsulate

available @ OScraps