To Be Well Connected...

 Guess what?

I gave my sister the 'gift' to keep us connected. Here is a photo....

I have one too


But. Guess what?

She bought me a gift too

Guess what?


Here is a photo...

She has one too

How weird...

I only told her I had a gift for her. Not what it was

Talk about being connected

 Ciao for now...

 

Hey Little Sister....

I'm just waiting. To pick up my sister and her kiddies. From the airport. They are coming in late but we will have fun for the next 4 days with family, frivolity and relaxation. Actually she is my only sister and we are around 2 years apart. I adore her but you probably know that from previous posts. She doesn't live near me and it is a shame really as we could have had some unreal babysitting schemes set up and even sleepovers so one couple could have, well, couple time. Not to be. Never mind.

We have an older brother too and he is coming for the weekend with his 4 year old who just loves his cousins. It is lovely to watch them all jumble in together. I am looking forward to family but some sister time too. We chat and talk and share... You know? Just be together. I talk to her nearly every day. She is wise. And funny. And beautiful. I am lucky. I know it. I like her as a person too.

I have bought her and I a gorgeous coffee mug each. To use daily and think of each other. To be connected. I have also bought her and I some pyjamas too. For the same reason. To share positivity. To draw strength from connectivity. To be connected over the miles. To bring each other closer.

In think this is important. Not just for us but for all women. T know they are being heard, being thought of, loved for who they are. I have spoken about this before and I think women do this very well, this 'being connected' business. I will post some photos and let you know how it goes.
Ciao for now......


Just Martha

Posted via IPad

Master T-isms....

On top of the world...

Due to popular demand, I have some more Master T sayings....

• "Milk increases your pheromones?". He was actually meaning that milk made his teeth stronger. How does he even know about pheromones?

• "Mum when I wash my hair it sort of bounces around when I run. Why is that?" "Because it is clean. Hair is supposed to do that"

• "Mrs X from school is on parole" Now, my ears did prick up only to find she is on sabbatical. Same but different.

• On seeing Bear Grylls find a road in one of his shows and run 'to find people', I commented that how would he know which direction to take. Master T looked at me like I was an idiot and said 'both directions lead to civilization'. Oh. Dup. Yeah. I guess you can't have a road leading to totally no where...

• He is reading a Bear Grylls book Mud, Sweat and Tears and so is his uncle who has warned me that there are raunchy bits coming up but he thought Master T might have passed them as they were both up to the same chapter. I thought I had better check this out as he never mentioned anything. So I asked him and this is the bit he thought was 'gross'.... 'milking it for sympathy'. Yep, his 11 year old brain conjured something up alright... He also mentioned something about 'snogging' that he thought meant 'two people rubbing their..... noses together'.
  
  
   
•  Miss T on the other hand is all knowing and guffaws at things I say. I don't think the English language is safe from any generational interpretation. My general verbal conversations are met with laughs and  a shake of the head at my apparent innocence. I am not safe to freely converse is would seem. Don't mention hooking up around a 13 year old and expect to be discussing a catch-up. Apparently....

Ahhh, gotta love them...

Ciao for now......





Just Martha

Posted via IPad

?Impossible...

Image

I am doing a quick post as I'm waiting for some relatives to come for dinner and then the SF's Mum is staying a couple of nights and bringing a girlfriend too. So, hmmm, that makes 8 for dinner. Lasagne cooking as we speak and a nice salad. My Dad is bringing focaccia. He is posh like that that. Maybe a lemon-drizzled cake for dessert. Sound nice?

I have neglected you all. I'm so sorry. As you know I finally finished my Cert IV and low and behold, there was a casual teaching job advertised so I have applied for that. As I previously wrote, the idea was to sell myself so after being up until 2 am for 5 mornings, my application was emailed with 20 minutes to spare. Phew!!! I HATE working like that.... rushed until the very last second. However....... I did get very c-r-e-a-t-i-v-e towards the end. Sleep deprivation and deadlines does that to a girl. They wanted to me to prove how I knew stuff. So, I did. I even went as far as to explain in great detail how I could use the photocopier as part of my 'communication' skills. Do you think it was a bit extreme of me? Seemed a good idea at 2 in the morning let me tell you. So, 23 pages later..............

I've concluded that I would employ me. I sounded quite perfect on paper!!! Now, if only there wasn't an interview (if I get one of course!!)

So, yesterday marked the beginning of the school holidays and I took the kiddies shopping and out for lunch. Today I have a long walk on the beach with some friends and then went to meet some other friends who were camping close by. I came in handy as there was a split head to fix!!!

So, some visitors have arrived. Best go and be the hostess with the most-est. Looking forward to bed let me tell you. Did I tell you that I have started my challenge again? I told the Silver Fox that next time he saw me I would be wearing a flower on my lapel!!!

So far so good.....



Ciao for now...



 

Connections...

Image

Do you feel connected? To your family, your friends... yourself? Hmmm, can be an issue can't it? I like to be creative about connections and am a firm believer in 'it is the thought that counts' type of concept. Let me tell you a little story. Or 2...

There was a Mummy and her adult daughter, (also a Mummy), who lived far apart but were very close. Now the Mummy went and got herself the big 'c' and never to do things by halves, she required surgery, chemo a-n-d radiation as treatments, all in a row. Now the daughter was b-e-s-i-d-e herself with role conflict. She had her work and her family to look after but really wanted to be there for her Mother. She was also in the medical field so had an idea or two of actual and potential issues her Mummy might face. (Are you keeping up? There are a few mummies in this story). Also being in the medial field I am so very aware of family supports, stress and health so I wanted to do something to easily connect these two beautiful women going through a tough time. I bought them each a 'tea for one' set, plain white, which they opened together. The idea being that when they were apart, they could easily think of each other whilst doing something relaxing like have a cup of tea. And they did. And it was relaxing. But the point is they were connected. Easily with just a little lateral thinking. Now I take no credit for her wonderful recovery but it was an easy way to show that others are thinking of them, offering support and helping the sisterhood to remain connected despite the fact that lives get in the way.

I did a post some time ago about the moon and that we all look at the same moon. The point was that with girl power we could direct kind thoughts to the moon and those needing kind thoughts could receive them as simply as looking up into the sky at night and asking for them. Girl power indeed. I think this is a way of keeping us all connected and after the success of the R U OK? campaign, I think a lot of us need such a connection. Even those you might not suspect. (Thinking of you my sweet friend...)

My sister is coming for a few days over the school holidays and even though we have the best intentions, the kiddies haven't seen each other all year. Plus, my darling sister and I planned to have a couple of nights together every year. And we did. 4 years ago. So, i am determined to enjoy our time together plus keep us connected so I have bought just her and I a little present. The same. So we can use it and think of each other. i won't tell you what it is because she is my biggest fan (or atleast she better be...) but I will share of photo or two after the event.

So, why don't you think about the girls in your life and think of something to strengthen those everyday bonds. I doesn't need to cost much. Something that says 'I love you', or 'I am thinking of you'? Time is fleeting and i am a big fan of appreciating the every day...





 Ciao for now...

 

Moments...

Image

Although splendid, my life is pottering away (that's for you Glenda) with the everyday and is in a constant bargaining state. 'If i do this then I can do that' sort of everyday conversation. I have had to think quite laterally of late. My car smelled 'funny' and was losing water on a daily basis. Not much but even my girl spidy-senses could tell something was amiss. Luckily I didn't choose to drive miles to Anaconda that day because my water pump was pooped. I know this because I found a highly recommended mechanic and was armed with a list from the Silver Fox as to what to check. He was a mechanic you know in a past life so it is never a profession I have frequented due to SF fixing everything. But alas, he is away and even if he were to come back the logistics of ordering parts and him fixing the car would totally overshadow any family time. I pick it up tomorrow and my sweet girlfriend is picking me up and taking me. Awww!

Now I am bargaining with myself because I have that application to write to do some casual part time teaching and have since found out it can be from 5 - 25 pages long when addressing the 10 point selection criteria. Apparently I need to, ahem, 'sell myself' which is a new concept to me as I wasn't really brought up that way. I only have until Friday to do it and once I get started I should be okay. But, you see, my life is getting in the way. There is still kids, food, shopping, banking, work, folding etc to contend with. Also, I have started another Challenge at the gym and am quite exhausted at the end of the day. Will be I suppose until I increase my fitness somewhat.

So, I need to remind myself, as above. To enjoy each moment because each moment is my life.

If you are going to pop in, give me notice so I can hide the ironing...







 Ciao for now...




 

Just Be Splendid...

Image

I think today is a day to just be splendid. Do you think so too?

It was so h-o-t- here over the weekend and I had a lovely day with Miss T: lunch, shopping, chatting... She thanked me for such a wonderful time. It might have something to do with the fact I bought her new swimmers and a top but it was really wonderful to be able to chat and not be in any great hurry to be any where.

Master T was at Scout camp for the whole weekend including Friday night AND Saturday night. He returned filthy, tired and happy. After a scrub, I removed a tick from his shoulder and he was asleep in bed in 3 minutes. Now that is camping!!! He wasn't too hard to get up this morning either! Just splendid really.

The Silver Fox was fishing all day and he too was exhausted but happy. A chat with us and he was off to bed.

See? All in all life is quite splendid. I hope your is too....


It is so nice that I have my computer speed back again. I have learned my lesson indeed.


Ciao for now...

 

I'm Grateful...

Image

I am grateful for the every day. For simple things. For the ability to take pleasure in the routine. Like setting a table. Or making a meal. Basic stuff.


Thank you for the every day.




 Ciao for now...


 

A Good Throttling...

Image

Although I am no stripper, I have been throttled! For not paying my internet bill. My infallible system of placing a 'tick' on my calendar when bills have been paid, has let me down. Alas, I ticked when I shouldn't have and as a result the system has flaws and IS fallible. Darn it. I should have paid on time and now I am on a 'go slow' punishment and punishment it is. I tried to find a more fitting picture but have already dedicated 25 minutes to finding this one so it will have to do.

You get my point I'm sure, in a lateral sort of way. However. I wonder where so many strippers get strangled that they needed to make a neon sign to press their point? Hmmm, gets you wondering doesn't it? Funny old world.

I digress

I'm being throttled and I can only say that at present, I am unable to view your lovely blogs and only just able to read emails. I must point out that I have paid the bill but they must enjoy throttling in their otherwise mundane day.

I had so much to tell you too....

It will have to wait.






 Ciao for now...


 

Who Lives Here?...

Image

Maybe Peter Pan?

Or Captain Hook by the look of that chandelier. He would probably have loved it.

I know that is a portrait of Eva Peron over the fireplace. Picked up at a flea market it was

It is, apparently, the living room of one Nanette Lepore. She is a fashion designer from New York



Hmmm, I still think Captain Hook would love it!




Ciao for now...
 

Kindness...

When I was 9 I was involved in an accident - sort of. I rode to the 'corner' shop on my bike to buy some glue, when I looked back and saw the neighbour's dogs running up the road with such joy at finding me. Now, said shop was about 2 kms away from home which wasn't really that far because it was near the school and I went there every day.

The dogs started to fight with the old Labrador at the shop so, using my childhood problem solving, I crossed the main road and unfortunately the dogs ran back across the road and were both killed by the same van.

Sad, but that is not why I am telling you. We were minding the dogs for our neighbours who were overseas so it was really terrible to tell them. That's not why I am telling you either.

Why I remember this story is that a lady stopped her car and offered to walk me home. And she did. It was a long way for a lady in high heels. She explained the situation to my Mum and Dad who were home. My Mum made me a cup of tea with sugar in. It which I thought was weird as I didn't take sugar. But. That is not why I remember the lady.

The adult in me knows she was very kind and caring and it was a wonderful thing to do. But, when she went to go, it was getting dark. She was 2 kms from her car in a maze of unknown streets.

How did she get back to her car? Was she lost for ages? Did my Dad drive her? I hope so because I have worried about my unknown guardian for y-e-a-r-s. I hope she was okay. And I hope she wasn't so scared that she regretted her kindness to me. Because she was so lovely.


do you remember the kindness of strangers?



Ciao for now......


Just Martha

Posted via IPad

Lazy Sunday...

The table was set with lights and tea lights... noice!

After 2 doses of antibiotics Master T was commando crawling along the floor, with his Nerf gun, to  ambush his sister who was on the computer to her friends. Obviously feeling better.

Dinner went well. I have known these girls since our kids were in Kindergarten together and although we are quite different, the connection has remained. It was great catching up with news and gossip. There were many laughs to be had. A great night!!

It was wonderful. Everyone brought a course which was delectable from the home made babaganoush, the key-lime 'tart' and the chocolate fudge. The main turned out okay. Note to self: when the recipe says 12 minutes, it is probably right. I was a bit concerned with undercooked chicken so ended up with overcooked instead. Never mind.

Here is a terrible photo:

lemon myrtle chicken with sweet potato and ricotta tarts...

 So here we are, still in our pjs. We have missed breakfast and are now thinking about getting lunch .... Bliss after a busy week....





Ciao for now...
 

Interesting Week...

Image

• Master T has now succumbed to an ear infection and a sore throat that kept us both up a-l-l night. His Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI) sure is causing trouble. He told his Dad he had an 'upper body infection' - he wasn't far off by the looks of it!! So off to fill that script. 

• The electric gate doesn't seem to be working so we were held hostage for a while until I rang the Silver Fox. It must have been a bit early for him though because he was telling me to 'see the grey thingy - open that whatsy on it'. What the? That's my language. Miss T is off to see and cheer at the grand final of her soccer competition with her team. Cool huh? (That's how we know the gate isn't working - she had to get picked up by her friend's Dad instead)

• My radiator seems to be leaking which is a pity as I want to drive a l-o-n-g- way today to go to Anaconda - a camping store so I can look at their sale. 70% off sounds just too inviting to me. Do I risk it? without NRMA? Naahh....

•  I'm having the girls over to dinner tonight and am making them a special chicken dish done with yoghurt and coriander and tumeric with a filo pastry basket of sweet potato with ricotta and spinach. Sounds pretty grand doesn't it. Hopefully it works out as I have not had a practice run...

•  I am applying for a casual teaching position which i can hopefully do in the evenings. All part of the plan. all part of the plan...

• Have a lovely weekend no matter what you are doing. Smile at strangers, give kind words when needed and give from the heart...

 Ciao for now...

 

Simple...

Nice huh? Look at the shape of that lamp. Sheer bliss. And blue. I l-o-v-e blue.






Ciao for now......


Just Martha

Posted via IPad

Poorly

Master T has been busy and taken on an upper respiratory chest infection, vomiting, temperature a-n-d conjunctivitis.

Greedy huh?

Major role conflict for me as my colleague is on leave

Luckily my parents stepped in for a little while. One doctor's visit and a trip to the chemist later, clean pjs, shower and clean sheets... He is smiling a little. This last bit is my recipe to help someone get well. Usually works...

What do you do when your family is poorly?




Ciao for now......


Just Martha

Posted via IPad

Dream Legs...

Image

She seems to have my dream legs...........



Sigh.......



Maybe if I get get cracking on this chocolate-smelling thing these legs will be mine. Mine I say... Bwahahahah.


Nice shoes too

Ciao for now...

Secret Deal...

Here he is...  Mr "Pig" : original I know

This is Mr 'Pig'. He is very important to me. I bought him on my honeymoon and I am still amazed that his ears are intact after all these years (21 actually - thanks for asking. I was a child bride). He and I have a secret. For every $5 note I have in my hot little hand, I give to him. And, he is saving the money for me. For something special. Maybe a chest of drawers for my bedroom. Remember I was saving up for one before? Remember this is what it turned into?

Well, Piggy and I have been very disciplined. And secretive. Not from others necessarily. But sort of from me. So when I eventually go to count it, I will get a wonderful surprise at how much is there.

Do you ever do that? Sort of trick yourself? I do. My bedside clock is set 8 minutes fast and I still get surprised when I am earlier than I think I am.

Over the weekend when the Silver Fox was eating Crunchie Cadbury chocolate, I tried to 'smell' my way into tricking myself I was eating it and therefore satisfied. Apart from freaking the SF out with having his mouth frequently sniffed..... I regret to say it didn't work. Pity really. I thought I was on to a money-spinner with that. Imagine!


 Ciao for now...

 

Special Adults...

Image

When we were young, my sister, brother and I would hang out with our neighbours. They were a couple who were youngish and had no children. For Christmas, they wouldn't give us presents but would take us all out for dinner: Mexican, Indian, Italian. The only rule was that we had to eat what we ordered. They also used to take us camping and hiking and would teach us how to cook. We grew up and everyone sort of moved away but  I had a chance a few years ago to see them for afternoon tea.

The lady had a baby when I was 14 and I would carry it around in the sacky-pouch thing. It is only now that I know what the old ladies were tsk tsk-ing about. They thought he was mine! I suppose he did look like a bit me come to think of it.

This couple weren't married and as I brought in their mail once, I called them both by her surname. They had to sit me down and break the news to me. I can remember feeling horrified. I w-a-s pretty young. They must have felt awful!

I was determined, after looking back with adult eyes, to thank them for being so fantastic to us, for being so patient, so kind, so cosmopolitan. For introducing us to the world of foreign lands through food and extending our taste buds. They saw nothing great in what they did. Were very humble at my insistence that they were such an important part of our lives and assisted in making us who we are today. I don't think they really thought anything of it

Have you had any wonderful adult influences?

Let me know




Ciao for now...



 

Balance...

Image

Well, the SF is going today and will be back in 6 weeks-ish. It is heavenly having him here and Father's Day was relaxed and together. We are relying on the fact that he will be home for good at Christmas. Fingers and toes crossed. He is not good by himself - away from the everyday of us. Come to think of it we are not good either - sort of........ incomplete. I worry. My apparent full time hobby since he has gone. Not just about him, about everything. And, it takes us a little longer each time to find our equilibrium. Even though we chat every day...

We hate that...


 Ciao for now...


 

The Silver Fox Has Landed...

The SF is back for Father's Day. Yay! I left work early and took him to Byron Bay for lunch.


As you do....


Ciao for now......


Just Martha

Posted via IPad

Luscious Lemony Cake...

Liz' Luscious Lemony Cake... Yum!!!

Jane from Salvation Jane has published a recipe for Liz' Luscious Lemony Cake that has my mouth watering..


Go have a look






Ciao for now...

  

Spring...

Image

A Prayer in Spring

Robert Frost (1915)

Oh, give us pleasure in the flowers to-day; And give us not to think so far away As the uncertain harvest; keep us here All simply in the springing of the year. Oh, give us pleasure in the orchard white, Like nothing else by day, like ghosts by night; And make us happy in the happy bees, The swarm dilating round the perfect trees. And make us happy in the darting bird That suddenly above the bees is heard, The meteor that thrusts in with needle bill, And off a blossom in mid air stands still. For this is love and nothing else is love, The which it is reserved for God above To sanctify to what far ends He will, But which it only needs that we fulfil.

Ciao for now...