Day 59 - Friends catching up.

It is funny how accustomed to you become to certain routines and how reliant you are on certain people. We have been so busy since starting daycare and working a couple of days a week and beginning to edit the local CARMBA newsletter. We haven't been able to catch up with all our usual people.

Mel and Patrick, who I have become accustomed to seeing at least once a week came over today after nearly a month of not seeing them. At first the kids were a little shy, but it certainly didn't take them long to warm up to each other.

Ava had obviously just gotten used to seeing her pseudo mum Mel so often that she cried hysterically when they left.

Day 58 - Plans change

We were planning a fun morning at Queanbeyan's Carnivale today, however upon arrival at the park we were a little disappointed with what we saw before us. A few food vans, some chairs near the stage and a jumping castle were certainly not going to keep the girls entertained for the morning, so off to the park we went. Pity it rained a little this morning which meant the only thing we could play on safely was the swings. Not that the girls complained. The swings are one of their favourite park items.

Oh well all good plans change. Thank goodness the girls were happy with these plan changes today.

Day 57 - Reading time

After helping my sister finish moving today, the girls enjoyed coming home and playing with all their toys.

When I got home they had all their books out and most of their toys all over the floor. Nothing really unusual for them. My daughters do love reading and books. Mostly they love having their books read to them. I captured a great father/daughter moment today with Shane reading 'Row, Row, Row your boat'. As he was reading the girls were doing all the actions including screaming on demand.

This is one of my favourite moments captured in time.

Day 56 - New House

Today we went and helped my sister start moving into her new house. 

The girls and I went across in the morning with Jenny and boy didn't they have fun, running around in circles, chasing each other, playing hide and seek, they even had a little nap there. You would think I never let them outside to run around!

Not sure exactly how much help I was, but by the end of the day I was exhausted.

Day 55 - Wedding Anniversary

Today was our Wedding Anniversary.

Shane and I have been married for 4 years. Each year we often buy presents that are from the traditional and modern anniversary list (found here). This year seemed a little tricky with the combination of fruit, flowers, nylon, linen, silk and appliances to choose from.

I think we covered nearly all bases between the 2 of us, thank goodness neither of us purchased an appliance.

It has definitely been an amazing 4 years, I can't wait to see what the years to come bring us. Hopefully we well begin to remember to wish each other Happy Anniversary before we leave the house together!

Day 54 - Cuddles

Ava is our very cuddly baby. She often comes up just for a cuddle.

After a day at work and a trip to the doctor for all 3 of us today, we enjoyed dinner with my family. While waiting for dinner, Ava climbed up on the lounge to sit with Andrew and have a little cuddle. Andrew despite often sitting quietly and playing by himself or watching television, is always picked for a quick cuddle.

Lucky Ducky, I am sure his sister Madison would kill to be in his spot somedays.

Day 53 - Horsey Rides

Laying on the floor has become one of many hazards in our house.

As soon as the girls see you laying on the floor they make a beeline straight to you. The climb on and jump up and down like they are riding a horse. The best part is they even make the 'clip clop' sound with their tongue as they bounce up and down.

Thanks girls. I am grateful you are not too heavy...yet!

Day 52 - Soup for the Soul

I woke up rather sick and feeling very sorry for myself this morning. Poor Carlyn who stayed the night was ready for work and very politely listened to me have a little whine about how poorly I felt before she left for work.

I lay on the blow up air bed Carlyn slept on and had a little early morning doze, obviously grateful that Shane too was feeling a little below par and had the day off work, so the girls didn't bother me too much.

So on the menu for tonight was Chicken Noodle Soup, certainly something that usually makes me feel better. I'm hoping for a better day tomorrow.

Day 51 - A trip to the park

The girls and I went for a trip to the park today while a sick Shane stayed at home for some quiet recouperation time.

We met Jenny, Sam and the kids there and let the kids run wild. I was grateful that Sam got up on the equipment with the girls and played with them. The extent of climbing I had to do was up to the swings to push them! We all had a great afternoon in the sun, until poor Andrew fell off the slippery dip. Was a great stack from what I saw of it.  Olivia, who has taken a little while to warm up to him, held Sam's hand as we walked back to the car. Far too cute.

I was hoping the trip to the park in the afternoon would wear them out for a big sleep that night. I was rudely mistaken. Oh well maybe a full nights sleep tomorrow night.

Day 50 - Helpers

Wow 50 days! This year is flying by!

Today I hosted a learning ladder party at my place today, while Shane was down the coast. The girls were both so excited by all the exciting new things that Candice brought along with her.

They enjoyed playing with Jerry the giraffe along with reading many a book (how unusual for my girls!) It is a pity they were both a little cranky today, in particular Ava. I am hoping for a really good night sleep and some eye teeth to pop through so she isn't so miserable tomorrow.

Thanks to everyone who came to the party today it was lovely. Thanks Jenny for helping me!

Day 49 - Ambidextrous?

Both Olivia and Ava love drawing. Whether it be on a piece of paper, in the picture book or on their etch-a-sketch. Quite often Oliva demands us to draw, usually in a rather high pitch voice.

Watching her draw is very interesting, I know that she is too young to really know which hand she is going to write with, however, she is quite ambidextrous in both eating and drawing.

And the teacher in me is so proud to catch her holding her pencil correctly (well nearly, close enough for a child under 2!)

Day 48 - Spontaneous!

I have discovered the lazy side of me coming out. After working 2 days, yes I know it is only 2 days, the last thing I want to do is go home and cook dinner on Thursday night. So today, after an eventful day, Shane and I took the girls to go visit poppy and suggested a spontaneous night out for dinner.

So Jenny, Sam, Austin, Andrew and Madie joined Poppy, Shane, the girls and I for dinner at the Rendezvous cafe in Queanbeyan and you just stop short of rolling yourself home after eating dinner. They always have huge meals and give you complementary cheesy garlic bread while you wait for your meal. Certainly a winner in Olivia's eyes and mine, because it keeps her nice and quiet!

The night was topped off by Austin (pictured above) calling over the waiter and saying 'Excuse me John, may I have another Orange Juice Please?' Excellent manners! And yes the waiter's name was John, he had on a name badge!

Day 47 - Wet Weather

A rainy Wednesday welcomed another day of casual teaching for me. However, I am grateful that it wasn't complete wet weather, meaning I didn't have to do indoor wet weather duty, the kids got to go for a run around outside to burn off some energy. Pity recess, which is later in the afternoon at the school I worked at, wasn't so pleasant. Kindergarten and wet weather does not make for a fun afternoon!

It is getting a little difficult to take photos when I am working, I really am going to have to become a little more proactive or creative when taking photos on these days.

Day 46 - Maxie Magna

I picked up our newer (well technically older!) car today. We purchased it on the weekend. We've been hunting since Christmas, I really wanted a family car, definitely one with a bigger boot than we currently have.

I found this 2004 Mitsubishi Magna VR-X AWD Series II in a car yard in Fyshwick. Drove it, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I put the car seats in, this becomes my new ride and yes I am looking forward to cruising about town with the girls in tow. But those Nelly Nissan lovers, don't despair, she will still stay in the family, I am not sure I could part with her just yet!

I really must get over this obsession with naming my cars!

Day 45 - Valentine's Day

Today is Valentine's day. Usually it is a day that passes by like any other in our house. When we got married we decided that we wouldn't celebrate Valentine's day with more than a nice dinner with each other and a card. Apparently, I broke that tradition this year.

I was in Woden Plaza on Saturday and Lollypotz had a mini shop and I saw a pot with some Beer and Fererro Rochers and thought that it was a cute present so I bought it for Shane. Which meant of course when he got wind of that, he decided that had to go and purchase something in return. Nothing like seeing your husband of nearly 4 years walk into the house with flowers and chocolates. Personally I think that it should happen more often! (hint hint Shane)

Nothing wrong with breaking from tradition every now and then is there?

Day 44 - Sunday Lunches

Look at these lashes!

Weekend lunches with my cousins has become one of my favourite new traditions since the girls have been born. There is always lots of laughs, way too much food and a wide variety of conversation topics...  today was apparently the day to have serious conversations with one another that really should have happened in private!

My Toblerone cheesecake worked out great as a congratulatory cake for Brett. We are looking forward to seeing him bulked up for the cougars in the next fireman's calendar.

On a side note, I think I must stop dressing the girls in white or buy shares in bleach companies.

Day 43 - Cheesecake

I have attempted a toblerone cheesecake this evening to take along for dessert tomorrow at lunch with the Simpson and Stubbs families. I have not used this recipe before, so I have my fingers crossed that it works... watch this space tomorrow to find out the recipe and the taste testing results. Jodi - I hope you have your tastebuds ready! I wonder if Cohen will have his first try of cheesecake tomorrow? :)

Day 42 - Big Girls Milk

Today's post is simple.

Gave the girls their milk in 'big girl cups' today. It is funny to watch them drink, the first time we gave it to them they basically tipped all the milk all over themselves. They take small steps and Ava who is always a clown discovered she could blow bubbles in it. Safe to say I didn't want to use that photo today.

My girls are growing up far too quickly. We've gone from bottles to sippy cups to real cups. Sad. It means they are growing up. Sadder.

Day 41 - "Hello Nanny"

"Hello Nanny"

The telephone, whether it be the home or mobile, is of great enjoyment for both the girls. They used to have a little toy one and would often walk around the house talking all kinds of gibberish.

Obviously after a day at daycare, Ava just wanted to tell Nanny all about it. We dialed Nanny's phone but she didn't answer. So Nanny got an amazing voice mail message. Lucky her. I wonder if she understood what was said other than "Hello Nanny" because I certainly didn't.

Day 40 - Growing out of fears

The girls have been scared of many things since they were younger. It started with cats, the vacuum, Men (yes I know poor Olivia), And this poor horse was once subject to many squeals for it to get away from them.

I've begun to leave things they are scared off out for them to touch and play with. I bought them a toy vacuum to help  them get over that fear, the horse is now being ridden around out lounge room complete with neighing and 'click clock' of the tongue sound effects.

I am still wondering how to get them out of the fear of men and cats... oh well, I guess plenty of time for that.

Day 39 - Henry Visits

Henry came for a visit today. He of course brought along Belinda with him who is just as delightful to see. He has grown up so much, such a little man as Belinda was telling me about. (You can see more of Henry on Belinda's Blog)

It was tough choice of photos today. I could have picked gorgeous Henry with his beautiful big eyes. Instead it is my inquisitive 2 going through Henry's daycare bag and discovering socks and formula containers. How unusual for these girls of mine.

Day 38 - Elmo

Once upon a time Elmo was a very scary creature. The girls never ever went near him, he sat in the corner. A very sad and lonely toy.

All of a sudden, thanks to a couple of Elmo presents from Aunty Jenny and family, he has become a much loved playmate, cuddle, kissing or dancing partner or just someone to lay and tell all your secrets too, which is what I think Ava is doing here.

Thanks Aunty Jenny and family for assisting the girls in overcoming their fears.

Day 37 - Home time

The first thing I noticed about the rental car was this prominent sticker on the window.

Pity these stickers aren't put in all cars because whenever I drive to and from Sydney there are always crazy drivers. I am not sure what it is about the highway that brings out the worst in some drivers. My trip home included being stuck in traffic just past the Bargo exit because of an accident, having a driver slam on the breaks in the overtaking lane because they saw a Police car pulling someone else over and many drivers who were either talking on the mobile, driving all over the road or just generally being in my way!

Made it home safely, albeit tired, after a great weekend away. I look forward to the next one already.

Day 36 - Wow, it is so hot!

Wow, Summer is definately here. It was so hot in Sydney today. According to the weather it was 41 degrees, I personally believe my car and it said 44 degrees. I am pretty sure at some point I melted.

We went and picked up Sonya from the airport in our air conditioned car and then found the haven known as Westfield East Gardens. Pity everyone else seemed to have the same idea. Then after a bit of chit chat and a cold shower it was time to go out to dinner. We met friends Bridie, Angela and Carly and ate beautiful vietnamese food from Thanh Binh in Newtown. It was some of the most delicious food I have ever eaten.

After a trip to a couple of pubs in Newtown we ventured home where Rocco, also known as Lickey Dog, decided to show us how much he loves Sarah. As promised this took over any other photo as today's photo of the day.

Day 35 - What awaits...

I have been planning a trip to Sydney for a couple of months now. Finally it has arrived. I hired a rental car leaving Shane with our Nelly Nissan for the weekend. After a very uneventful trip up to Sydney, I arrived to a glass of wine awaiting me and Ryan making a Mii of me for our evening of Wii Bowling.

I believe I am the bowling Champion on the Hansen Wii still with a score of 204. I am sure Sarah will call me and tell me when she beats it... (if she ever beats it!)

A night of chit chat, Wii and Wine (and water to attempt to  keep myself hydrated) was a great start to a great weekend.

Day 34 - Haircuts

It was the day for haircuts today.

Boy it was relaxing after doing yet another tragic drop off with Miss Ava hysterically crying again... nothing like a little Mother's guilt. Anyway, 1pm rolled around and I enjoyed my 30 minutes spent with my blessed hairdresser, Vanessa. Just a little tidy up and boy it always feels so much softer.

Along comes 4.30 and I take Madison to lovely Lindy at Hallistic Hair. She was such a good girl sat in the chair with her little wiggles cape on. A bit more training to keep her head super still and she'll be really enjoying her haircuts.

Thanks to the lovely hairdressers in my life. You are awesome.

Day 33 - Little People

I was surrounded by little people in so many forms today.

I did my first day in almost 7 years of casual teaching, and it of course wasn't nearly as bad as I thought, however it was a very relaxed day. Thank goodness. It will give me time to work myself up to a full day of teaching again!

I picked the girls up from Nanny and Poppy's and swiftly brought them home to the nice ice cold air conditioning. They had a lovely day with Nanny and Poppy of course.

While playing at home this afternoon I noticed Olivia refer to the little people character I have in my photo as 'Aysie' otherwise known as Ava. I am wondering if she has an amazing insight as to what exactly Ava is going to do with herself when she grows up...  maybe a Pilot or an Air Hostess... whatever it is, today, Aysie flew the plane to some magical place with Olivia. Too cute. I wonder if any of the other little people have names yet.... only time will tell.

Day 32 - Organised Much?

After almost having 2 years out of the classroom, I have my first day of casual teaching booked in for tomorrow. I have organised my books, stickers and stamp collections over the weekend ready for the early morning or late evening phone calls I may begin to receive. I know, I am hearing you think...'that is so unlike Peta to be so prepared!'

I have my trolley packed, my diary (cute handbags of course) ready and my alarm set... yes an actual alarm rather then the usual alarm of the twins squealing! I just have to find my courage and teaching brain ready for tomorrow!