Today I had my first job interview in I don't know how many years.
I volunteered to talk to Emmalee's class about my career -- and they 'interviewed' me and peppered me with questions like, "Are you the boss?", "Do you have friends at work?", "Do you work for money?", "Why did you move here?", What equipment do you use?", "How did you learn?" and more.
I was scheduled to talk for 25 minutes and even though the bell rang after 25 minutes, they still sat with their hands up with questions to ask. I was very impressed with their attention and questions. I was the first person to present to them, but still...
Jim will be coming in on the 23rd of November, so he can try to show me up then. He will be bringing in bribes of marketing trinkets and stuff! You know... anything to make accounting sound interesting.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Here we go again!
Its like a bad dream. Andrew's ears are leaking AGAIN. Have been since Saturday afternoon... The good news is that it means his tubes are working properly. Bad news is that it means he definitely has an infection.
He woke up this morning insistent that he couldn't go to school because he was too sick. First his ears hurt. Gave him the ibuprofen. Then his throat hurt. Then his foot. Then his tummy. Then his leg. Then his arm. Then his head. Then even his gums. He was pulling out all the stops. I told him I was calling the Doctor and made an appointment since we were flying out on Thursday and didn't want to have any complications like earlier in the month.
Saw Dr. Ratner and she said it was definitely a virus. His ear drums looked good. Tonsils looked fine. But if we just used ear drops, we might not keep all the bad stuff at bay long enough for travel, so she brought out the big guns with Augmentin 400. He's on it for 5 days. Let's hope it kills everything and we have a smooth trip.
After seeing her, I convinced him he was well enough to go to school since he was silly enough to roll on the floor through the whole doctor's appointment!
He woke up this morning insistent that he couldn't go to school because he was too sick. First his ears hurt. Gave him the ibuprofen. Then his throat hurt. Then his foot. Then his tummy. Then his leg. Then his arm. Then his head. Then even his gums. He was pulling out all the stops. I told him I was calling the Doctor and made an appointment since we were flying out on Thursday and didn't want to have any complications like earlier in the month.
Saw Dr. Ratner and she said it was definitely a virus. His ear drums looked good. Tonsils looked fine. But if we just used ear drops, we might not keep all the bad stuff at bay long enough for travel, so she brought out the big guns with Augmentin 400. He's on it for 5 days. Let's hope it kills everything and we have a smooth trip.
After seeing her, I convinced him he was well enough to go to school since he was silly enough to roll on the floor through the whole doctor's appointment!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Off to Bondi
After Luna Park, we set off for Bondi Beach -- a favorite of Andrew's because Miss Jowett lives there! Since its an icon of Australia, Jim figured he HAD to take his parents there. And since we only had his car and mine, we crammed into his car. Needless to say, I opted to drive since the last time we crammed 6 people into that car, I was stuck in the back and not so comfortable!!!
Had lunch at a cafe named TRIO right across from the beach. It was very nice and the food was good.
Afterwards, we walked across the road and the kids and Jim played a bit in the surf (yes, still FREEZING COLD) while the three of us just watched. Didn't stay long because no one was in swimming gear, Bill & Mary aren't too fond of the sand, I hate cold water and we needed to get back to have dinner at the Fords. All good reasons, although not good enough for the kids!
Had lunch at a cafe named TRIO right across from the beach. It was very nice and the food was good.
Afterwards, we walked across the road and the kids and Jim played a bit in the surf (yes, still FREEZING COLD) while the three of us just watched. Didn't stay long because no one was in swimming gear, Bill & Mary aren't too fond of the sand, I hate cold water and we needed to get back to have dinner at the Fords. All good reasons, although not good enough for the kids!
Luna Park
Today we had a big day planned. Andrew had cricket at 8.30. Then after cricket, (ok during) Jim got his hair cut. We picked up Bill at home after he saw Dr. Ratner for a blood pressure re-check. Picked up Mary and the kids and headed down to Luna Park. 
Luna Park is one of Sydney's favourite icons. You can soak up the atmosphere and the magnificent views while the kids enjoy the rides and games, or have a go yourself and relive your childhood. Step back in time at Coney Island, test your driving skills on the Dodgems, see what's happening in The Big Top or just sit back on the Ferris Wheel and make the most of the bird's eye view. 
That's exactly what Jim, Mary and the kids did. At $20 per ticket to just go into Coney Island and use the Ferris Wheel and Carousel, I decided to sit this one out! 
The kids loved it. Emmalee especially -- she could have stayed all day at Coney Island just riding the slides and then riding the Carousel.
This pretty much sums it up...
Friday, October 26, 2007
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Getting ready for Halloween
Looks like everyone is getting their Halloween costumes all ready... 
So far the preparations for the 2007 Northbridge Halloween Trick-or-Treat walk are going well. After sending out the Evite, not even four days later, I have over 60 people RSVPing that they will be going. That is including parents and siblings, but we are getting a GREAT turn-out.
I hope the actual even lives up to everyone's expectations since it seems to be getting built up quite a bit!
So far the preparations for the 2007 Northbridge Halloween Trick-or-Treat walk are going well. After sending out the Evite, not even four days later, I have over 60 people RSVPing that they will be going. That is including parents and siblings, but we are getting a GREAT turn-out.I hope the actual even lives up to everyone's expectations since it seems to be getting built up quite a bit!
No Roots
I finally broke down and got my hair colored and cut today. Been putting it off, but the grey hairs have been starting to get to me. And the color was looking drab (ok, I didn't notice it until after it was colored how bad it WAS looking... why didn't someone tell me???)
So, now that it is done, I will have to wait months -- it is over double to get the same exact things done here as it is in Kenosha. UGH!
So, now that it is done, I will have to wait months -- it is over double to get the same exact things done here as it is in Kenosha. UGH!
Rain is so peaceful
Today walking to school this morning I was struck at how peaceful a spring rain shower can be. There was no one around and it was just quiet. The smell of fresh rain, fresh grass and the flowers just filled the air. It wasn't raining hard enough to even need an umbrella most of the time -- and when I did, I could just hear the pitter patter, split splat of the raindrops.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Added two students today!
Today was another day of scripture at Emmalee's class. I got TWO new students today. First one was expected -- Grandma Rhomberg. She wanted to go along to see what religion in a public school was like. Hopefully it was ok! The 2nd new student is a girl named, Cleo from Bella's class. She is new to Northbridge and joined the group today.
I surprised Mary by calling on her to answer a question. Figured if everyone else had to answer, so did she. The kids recognized her from Emmalee's new day last week, so they wondered why she was here again. That was funny to hear, "Why are you here AGAIN?" Oh, out the the mouth of year one kids!
I surprised Mary by calling on her to answer a question. Figured if everyone else had to answer, so did she. The kids recognized her from Emmalee's new day last week, so they wondered why she was here again. That was funny to hear, "Why are you here AGAIN?" Oh, out the the mouth of year one kids!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Planning Halloween
As the token American here at Northbridge, I have been requested to organize a Halloween activity for all the kids here in Andrew's class and a few of Emmalee's friends.Biddy and I met last week to figure out where the walk would go and then decided the times. Today, I hit the e-vite site and set it up. By the end of the day, I already had six families that had said yes!
Our plan so far are to meet at Tilly/Fred/Jack Kemsley's house at 5.45. Then is a group/mob we will all walk and hit about 7 houses between there and our house. At the end, we will do a little Halloween party in the front yard. You know... bobbing for apples, haunted objects (spaghetti for worms, grapes peeled for eyeballs, cauliflower for monkey's brains, Fresh green beans - witch fingers, Rubber glove filled with flour - dead hand, Pig ears (dog treat things) - dried bat wings, Limp, slightly warm, oily cabbage leaves - skin and maybe a few other ideas.
Should be a good time!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Happy Birthday to Me
We celebrated my birthday a day early since Jim and I are going to Melbourne tomorrow for my real birthday and the birthday weekend.Both kids made me a hand-made card. Jim remembered the type of cake I told him I wanted THREE months ago (and I had forgotten about!) and we had take-out Thai for dinner. It was great!
Monday, October 15, 2007
10 Months and 1 Week...
Its been 10 months and 1 week since we moved here and I FINALLY picked up my golf clubs and three sets of shoes from quarantine. Nothing like putting it off...
Sunday, October 14, 2007
It's a School Night...Finally
The kids are being put to bed at the crisp hour of 7pm in anticipation of the big week of school they are going to have next week. Thursday and Friday were late nights, so we need to get back on track. With Emmalee waking before 6am (yes, 6 am!) every day, she is pretty exhausted, even if she won't admit it.
Have the uniforms all laid out. Its summer uniform time, so we no longer have to wrestle with tights or shirts and dresses to get overly warm in. Hard to believe we have only one term of school left before the end of the year. Where has the time gone?
Have the uniforms all laid out. Its summer uniform time, so we no longer have to wrestle with tights or shirts and dresses to get overly warm in. Hard to believe we have only one term of school left before the end of the year. Where has the time gone?
Bowral, NSW
They left around 8.15 to get there and have a good part of the day to explore and visit and still make it back here for dinner. In fact, they got back with enough time for Bill to take Emmalee over to the golf course to practise putting for a while!
Evidently Bowral is where the cricket legend, Sir Donald Bradman AC, grew up across from the cricket oval.
The village is supposed to be full of shops and cafes, so I expected to hear all about the great lunch they would have in a cafe. Instead, as I help a sleeping Andrew out of the car when they arrived home, I find out they enjoyed the cuisine of Mackers (McDonalds). Go figure...I expect there were three begging for it, so Grandma and Daddy got outvoted! Both kids were so exhausted from all their exploring and the busy week that they slept the whole way home.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
The Vineyard
Jim and I snuck out for a quick dinner on the town. After he went to mass with his parents (I kept the kids because they were so exhausted, they would never have made it through 6pm mass without exploding or imploding)
We found a place in the Entertainment Book (where else???) and made it there by 7.30. We parked on the street and against Jim's better judgement, we fed the parking meters. I didn't want us to get one of the $79 parking tickets that Crows Nest is known for. He didn't think there would actually be rangers out looking -- but I knew better. In fact, when we returned, the car behind us had a ticket waiting for them. I think Jim was a little bit happier that I convinced him!
The Vineyard was promoted as a Moroccan style restaurant, so I wasn't exactly sure about the food I would have to choose from. The back room (where we sat) was made up of low tables, pillows and chairs, so it was less a restaurant style and more a living room style.
We ordered lamb kafkas with yoghurt sauce for a starter. I got a really good drink made up of vodka, limes, brown sugar and cranberry juice splashed on top. YUMMY!
For dinner I went with the Orecchiette with cauliflower, mushrooms, crispy bacon, white wine and cream sauce. It was excellent. Jim had the Scallop risotto with asparagus and saffron, and fried proscuitto. The proscuitto was crispy on top and when he took a bite, he was overwhelmed by the saltiness. So, I told him to crush/crumble it over the top of the risotto and was quite impressed at the difference it made to the flavors. Everything went so well together. We'd definitely recommend it to others.
After dinner we walked around a bit since Jim really hadn't done much exploring in Crows Nest. Most shops (all) weren't open, but he was able to see the food choices and what stores there are in case he ever feels the need to shop (but I doubt it!)
We found a place in the Entertainment Book (where else???) and made it there by 7.30. We parked on the street and against Jim's better judgement, we fed the parking meters. I didn't want us to get one of the $79 parking tickets that Crows Nest is known for. He didn't think there would actually be rangers out looking -- but I knew better. In fact, when we returned, the car behind us had a ticket waiting for them. I think Jim was a little bit happier that I convinced him!
The Vineyard was promoted as a Moroccan style restaurant, so I wasn't exactly sure about the food I would have to choose from. The back room (where we sat) was made up of low tables, pillows and chairs, so it was less a restaurant style and more a living room style.We ordered lamb kafkas with yoghurt sauce for a starter. I got a really good drink made up of vodka, limes, brown sugar and cranberry juice splashed on top. YUMMY!
For dinner I went with the Orecchiette with cauliflower, mushrooms, crispy bacon, white wine and cream sauce. It was excellent. Jim had the Scallop risotto with asparagus and saffron, and fried proscuitto. The proscuitto was crispy on top and when he took a bite, he was overwhelmed by the saltiness. So, I told him to crush/crumble it over the top of the risotto and was quite impressed at the difference it made to the flavors. Everything went so well together. We'd definitely recommend it to others.
After dinner we walked around a bit since Jim really hadn't done much exploring in Crows Nest. Most shops (all) weren't open, but he was able to see the food choices and what stores there are in case he ever feels the need to shop (but I doubt it!)
Taronga Zoo
They saw the koalas, the giraffes and of course did the walkabout with the kangaroos and wallabies. I think they really enjoyed themselves.
Have a Go -- Cricket
Andrew really seemed to get into the whole process. He has the natural athletic abilities like his dad, so I am sure he will do well. Archie on the other hand, really REALLY enjoyed chasing after the balls that people hit. The look of sheer excitement on their faces is really priceless.
Friday, October 12, 2007
BBQ at the Youngs
Julie Young had arranged to have everyone over for dinner Friday night so that both her in-laws and mine could meet. Steve's parents and his aunt Trudy were flying back to the states on Sunday, so it was one of the last opportunities to do it.
Around 3pm, I started to get a headache. Actually I woke up with a funny eye (left). It was itchy (has been all week) and looked awfully reddish -- maybe a bit bloodshot. So I skipped the contacts and just went with glasses. So, when the headache hit, I laid down after taking the ibuprofen with codeine. Thought that would knock out the headache with a rest. Didn't work so well, headache kept getting worse. By 5pm I decided it was a migraine. UGH!!! Haven't had one of those in a while.
Jim finally got home around 6 and they all went over to the Youngs without me. I couldn't stomach the thought of that much noise with the way my head was hurting just feeling my pulse throbbing. It actually took two Imitrex and complete quiet to start to break it. I laid in bed listening to the wind howl -- it had blown in something fierce. I couldn't quite tell if it was raining anymore, but it sure was windy. Think that maybe this change of pressure could have added to the headache pain, too.
Around 3pm, I started to get a headache. Actually I woke up with a funny eye (left). It was itchy (has been all week) and looked awfully reddish -- maybe a bit bloodshot. So I skipped the contacts and just went with glasses. So, when the headache hit, I laid down after taking the ibuprofen with codeine. Thought that would knock out the headache with a rest. Didn't work so well, headache kept getting worse. By 5pm I decided it was a migraine. UGH!!! Haven't had one of those in a while.
Jim finally got home around 6 and they all went over to the Youngs without me. I couldn't stomach the thought of that much noise with the way my head was hurting just feeling my pulse throbbing. It actually took two Imitrex and complete quiet to start to break it. I laid in bed listening to the wind howl -- it had blown in something fierce. I couldn't quite tell if it was raining anymore, but it sure was windy. Think that maybe this change of pressure could have added to the headache pain, too.
Mike is Back!!!!
Mary even had time to get her camera and take a few photos. He just sat there and didn't seem bothered -- maybe even posed a time or two for her so she could get his front and side shots!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Getting the Old Gang Back Together
This morning Sophie organized a playgroup at the Willoughby Park for any of the KJ kids and their families. I think about 8 or so went. It was a nice turnout.
Emmalee played with Rachael (Kyle's big sister) and Andrew played with the boys. I took Noah off of Nicole's hands for a while so she could visit, since he is a bundle of energy. He LOVES spinning of the spinning rides. And swinging...
At the end of the playtime, I was ambushed. Emmalee asked if Rachael could come home with her. I figured no problem. So then Andrew said he wanted Alex to come over. So, I arrived at the play with 2 kids and left with four!
Had a nice playtime at home. Fed them lunch and the girls played school and dolls for the next 3 hours. The boys on the other hand were much more active. Outdoor sports, basketball (they broke Andrew's b-ball backboard), dinosaurs and more. Plus they had fun eating Tim Tams.
Emmalee played with Rachael (Kyle's big sister) and Andrew played with the boys. I took Noah off of Nicole's hands for a while so she could visit, since he is a bundle of energy. He LOVES spinning of the spinning rides. And swinging...At the end of the playtime, I was ambushed. Emmalee asked if Rachael could come home with her. I figured no problem. So then Andrew said he wanted Alex to come over. So, I arrived at the play with 2 kids and left with four!
Had a nice playtime at home. Fed them lunch and the girls played school and dolls for the next 3 hours. The boys on the other hand were much more active. Outdoor sports, basketball (they broke Andrew's b-ball backboard), dinosaurs and more. Plus they had fun eating Tim Tams.
99 Bottles...
Our version of 99 bottles of beer goes something like this...
4 bottles of Bombay Gin on the island4 bottles of Gin
Take one down, have a few rounds...
3 bottles of Gin on the island
And repeat...
p.s. thank goodness for duty free alcohol shopping.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
LibraryThing
I found this cool website that allows you to catalogue all the books in your personal library. Even add the ones you are reading from the library. You can go in and give reviews and tag the books with themes and content. Then eventually it will help recommend other books based on your information.I like it because I can see what books I own, go in and write a bit/review about them and then have it there for the future. When someone asks if I have read a good book lately -- or what I am reading... I know my memory stinks, so maybe this will help out.
When you click on the book covers on my blog, it will take you to amazon.com and you can read ore about it. Pretty cool! Who knows, maybe I can start an online book-club this way?!? Reading around the world...
LibraryThing
Boy the house was silent
I actually had the whole house to myself today. Emmalee and Andrew went to a holiday art workshop, "Construction Art" with Grace from 10-3. Nicole drove them there, so I said I would do pick-up duty.
Bill & Mary chose today to be the day to take the bus down to the city by themselves. They hopped the 8.34am bus and made it to the city in time to take a Captain Cook Harbour Cruise (a 2 1/2 hour cruise around Sydney to see the sights and get a little narrative of the things all around). Then they were off to the Sydney Tower to get the view from above. Then some shopping.
So, I was home all alone. You would think I would take a nap since I had complete silence and no Jim to harass me over doing it. But no, I decided to make a few birthday card since I am out. Then re-organize some of the things in the pantry that needed to go into sealed containers to keep out pantry moths since we are going into spring/summer. Then around 2 I decided to tackle the art cabinet for the kids. UGH!!! That was a project. We haven't been able to close those doors completely for a while (OK, at least without slamming and running before things fall out). I went through all the broken/not working crayons and markers. Got rid of loose papers and drawings I didn't think they would miss. And now we have room. Imagine that. If only I could stay that organized. And apply it to our bedroom and my desk.
Bill & Mary chose today to be the day to take the bus down to the city by themselves. They hopped the 8.34am bus and made it to the city in time to take a Captain Cook Harbour Cruise (a 2 1/2 hour cruise around Sydney to see the sights and get a little narrative of the things all around). Then they were off to the Sydney Tower to get the view from above. Then some shopping.
So, I was home all alone. You would think I would take a nap since I had complete silence and no Jim to harass me over doing it. But no, I decided to make a few birthday card since I am out. Then re-organize some of the things in the pantry that needed to go into sealed containers to keep out pantry moths since we are going into spring/summer. Then around 2 I decided to tackle the art cabinet for the kids. UGH!!! That was a project. We haven't been able to close those doors completely for a while (OK, at least without slamming and running before things fall out). I went through all the broken/not working crayons and markers. Got rid of loose papers and drawings I didn't think they would miss. And now we have room. Imagine that. If only I could stay that organized. And apply it to our bedroom and my desk.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
All Better
I would have to say that Andrew is feeling much, much, much better.
Not sure if I would have said that on Friday, when we had to go to the Opera House to pick up Grandma's glasses and the whole way out to the car, Emmalee and Andrew fought. Just like old times. We didn't even get down the driveway before both were in tears. Then again, maybe I would have said it too... actually I did. Told them that if they were both feeling well enough to fight, then they were well enough to go to the city and that no-one was THAT sick!
Now, it seems to be normal daily occurrence for a sibling scrap. That's definitely the way to gauge my children's health. If you can't pick on your sibling... you are definitely sick! Good to have him back.
Oh, and his happy, goofy smile and non-stop chatter. That's another way... :)
p.s. He has taken to sleeping 12+ hours a night. I think he is healing/catching up on what he lost in the hospital. Jim thinks he and I are nuts for needing so much sleep. Figures we both should be caught up by now. If only I went to bed when Andrew did -- maybe I would!
Not sure if I would have said that on Friday, when we had to go to the Opera House to pick up Grandma's glasses and the whole way out to the car, Emmalee and Andrew fought. Just like old times. We didn't even get down the driveway before both were in tears. Then again, maybe I would have said it too... actually I did. Told them that if they were both feeling well enough to fight, then they were well enough to go to the city and that no-one was THAT sick!
Now, it seems to be normal daily occurrence for a sibling scrap. That's definitely the way to gauge my children's health. If you can't pick on your sibling... you are definitely sick! Good to have him back.
Oh, and his happy, goofy smile and non-stop chatter. That's another way... :)
p.s. He has taken to sleeping 12+ hours a night. I think he is healing/catching up on what he lost in the hospital. Jim thinks he and I are nuts for needing so much sleep. Figures we both should be caught up by now. If only I went to bed when Andrew did -- maybe I would!
The Results are In
Talked to the Dr. today. Actually two of them. First one is the one I really don't care for... she called to tell me there were no broken bones in my thumb. And that it will eventually heal. THE END.
Got back from running to the grocery store and there was a message from Dr. Ratner -- the one I like. She wanted me to drop in so she could see my thumb, even if nothing was broken. Just to see how things were going. Much different beside manner, that's for sure. She confirmed nothing had been broken or crushed. Offered to drill the nail (to which I said No Thank You!) and then decided along with me, the blood under the nail is definitely not going anywhere, so there was no need to drill.
Now, according to her, I just have to give it time to heal. It will take a while. Have to be careful with what I do -- even turning the ignition key hurts to the point I have to turn it with my pointer and middle fingers. Can't wear rubber gloves for dishes because the pressure of something on my nail just about kills me. And definitely can't fight with the kids. Not sure how many times they have 'bumped' it! At least I am not carrying Andrew around any more. Hopefully that means it will start to get better. One day at a time...
Got back from running to the grocery store and there was a message from Dr. Ratner -- the one I like. She wanted me to drop in so she could see my thumb, even if nothing was broken. Just to see how things were going. Much different beside manner, that's for sure. She confirmed nothing had been broken or crushed. Offered to drill the nail (to which I said No Thank You!) and then decided along with me, the blood under the nail is definitely not going anywhere, so there was no need to drill.
Now, according to her, I just have to give it time to heal. It will take a while. Have to be careful with what I do -- even turning the ignition key hurts to the point I have to turn it with my pointer and middle fingers. Can't wear rubber gloves for dishes because the pressure of something on my nail just about kills me. And definitely can't fight with the kids. Not sure how many times they have 'bumped' it! At least I am not carrying Andrew around any more. Hopefully that means it will start to get better. One day at a time...
Afternoon Tea with Grandma
Today I took Mary and Emmalee to the Gunners' Barracks for Afternoon Tea. I planned a nice little 'girls day out' for us. Emmalee loves tea parties and this is about as proper of a tea party as I will ever get to do, so I thought she was finally old enough at 7 to go along, too.
It was a beautiful day today. A bit breezy (OK WINDY!) but still sunny, so Mary was able to enjoy the view of Middle Harbour from our table.
Emmalee and Mary got tea (vanilla for Emme and Irish Breakfast for Mary), while I stuck with coffee. Still can't swallow tea -- too watery tasting. I think Emmalee drinks it for the milk and sugar cubes she gets to add. Not sure how many went in, but I think she sampled half of the sugar cube bowl during the course of the meal.
We got scones with double cream and jam. Then there were the egg salad sandwiches and chicken and walnut salad sandwiches. YUM!!! The tarts were tomato and feta cheese and Mary said they were really good. The sweets included the Opera Cake (chocolate and coffee), Raspberry slices, Orange and Almond cake, Strawberry and Cream tarts and my favorites -- the passion fruit mousse cookies. Everything was great.
After lunch we walked around the property and saw some of the sights and got great pictures. It might even be whale watching time, since we saw a boat full of people circling the harbour and they seemed to be looking for something! I took them over to George's Head -- which is the end of that area and they got another great view of the area.
Mary said this was a real treat and I am glad that I was able to do this with her and Emmalee!
It was a beautiful day today. A bit breezy (OK WINDY!) but still sunny, so Mary was able to enjoy the view of Middle Harbour from our table.
Emmalee and Mary got tea (vanilla for Emme and Irish Breakfast for Mary), while I stuck with coffee. Still can't swallow tea -- too watery tasting. I think Emmalee drinks it for the milk and sugar cubes she gets to add. Not sure how many went in, but I think she sampled half of the sugar cube bowl during the course of the meal.
We got scones with double cream and jam. Then there were the egg salad sandwiches and chicken and walnut salad sandwiches. YUM!!! The tarts were tomato and feta cheese and Mary said they were really good. The sweets included the Opera Cake (chocolate and coffee), Raspberry slices, Orange and Almond cake, Strawberry and Cream tarts and my favorites -- the passion fruit mousse cookies. Everything was great.
After lunch we walked around the property and saw some of the sights and got great pictures. It might even be whale watching time, since we saw a boat full of people circling the harbour and they seemed to be looking for something! I took them over to George's Head -- which is the end of that area and they got another great view of the area.
Mary said this was a real treat and I am glad that I was able to do this with her and Emmalee!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Thumbwatch 2007 - October
3 1/2 weeks in and the thumb is not much better. In fact, I have had comments about my nail polish to being called a "Goth Mommy" Yeah, one black colored thumb nail does not a Goth Mommy make...
Are we glowing yet?
Can you see us from outerspace? Or at least from North America?
Today I went and had three x-rays of MY THUMB done. The orthopod at the hospital, while examining Andrew suggested I get it x-rayed to make sure the bone isn't crushed underneath the nail.
For some reason my thumb is STILL hurting. Its more tender on the top, like if a breeze or sheet happens to go across my nail. I definitely can't touch the tip of my thumb to anything. Or tap the top of the nail. And forget about doing anything I am used to using my right thumb/hand for. Its really out of my normal to be like this. I can deal with the black nail. Cover it with polish or wear a band-aid. But this not being able to bump it or hold things or do normal activities is getting old. My thumb is still swollen enough that I can barely get manicure scissors past the nail to cut the kids' nails. And if I put on rubber gloves to attempt to do dishes, I just about have tears in my eyes. Not being able to dishes isn't all that bad, but it cuts down on cooking, hand washing and more! Even washing my hair is a pain in the hand. UGH.
The films (yes, they are not done via email, but rather by real film) will be sent over later today after 5.30, so I should hear something tomorrow. After two rounds of Keflex, I can't say for sure if there is or isn't any infection under the nail. But if there isn't, I really don't know why it is hurting so much.
Let this be a lesson. DO NOT SHUT YOUR FINGER in a car door.
Today I went and had three x-rays of MY THUMB done. The orthopod at the hospital, while examining Andrew suggested I get it x-rayed to make sure the bone isn't crushed underneath the nail.
For some reason my thumb is STILL hurting. Its more tender on the top, like if a breeze or sheet happens to go across my nail. I definitely can't touch the tip of my thumb to anything. Or tap the top of the nail. And forget about doing anything I am used to using my right thumb/hand for. Its really out of my normal to be like this. I can deal with the black nail. Cover it with polish or wear a band-aid. But this not being able to bump it or hold things or do normal activities is getting old. My thumb is still swollen enough that I can barely get manicure scissors past the nail to cut the kids' nails. And if I put on rubber gloves to attempt to do dishes, I just about have tears in my eyes. Not being able to dishes isn't all that bad, but it cuts down on cooking, hand washing and more! Even washing my hair is a pain in the hand. UGH.
The films (yes, they are not done via email, but rather by real film) will be sent over later today after 5.30, so I should hear something tomorrow. After two rounds of Keflex, I can't say for sure if there is or isn't any infection under the nail. But if there isn't, I really don't know why it is hurting so much.
Let this be a lesson. DO NOT SHUT YOUR FINGER in a car door.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Dinner with the Bartons
Jim and I went out for breakfast at Schmooze this morning. First time since we moved here that we were able to do that without kids. Enjoyed a nice, leisurely breakfast.
Just before I had finished my omelet, we saw the Bartons driving past. They grabbed the table next to us and sat down. Was nice to catch up with them. Sophie had the kids at her parents' house in Ganada, NSW for the week and John had spent it working back here in Sydney.
We invited them over for dinner so they could meet Bill & Mary and the kids could play. Thought it would be good for Andrew to have some friend time, too!
Had already put pork in the crock pot for Pork Satay, slow cooker style so there wasn't much to do in way of prep for dinner. Quite easy. Sophie brought over a warm pasta with ricotta, basil and tomatoes. It was really good. Finished up with fresh chocolate chip cookies (some had them as ice cream sandwiches) for dessert since Mary brought more Crisco and I know how much Sophie LOVES my cookies!
Had good conversation, lots of wine (four bottles!!!!)
Just before I had finished my omelet, we saw the Bartons driving past. They grabbed the table next to us and sat down. Was nice to catch up with them. Sophie had the kids at her parents' house in Ganada, NSW for the week and John had spent it working back here in Sydney.
We invited them over for dinner so they could meet Bill & Mary and the kids could play. Thought it would be good for Andrew to have some friend time, too!
Had good conversation, lots of wine (four bottles!!!!)
and many topics flew past. Got through politics and kids, school and geography. Tried to stay away from sex and religion. Sent Sophie home with a bag full of cookies and a big smile on her face.
I think Bill & Mary really enjoyed meeting some of our friends. And its nice to have them meet Jim's folks, too!
I think Bill & Mary really enjoyed meeting some of our friends. And its nice to have them meet Jim's folks, too!
Crackerjack
It's on for young and old.... that's the tagline of the Lawn Bowls movie, Crackerjack, we watched a few months ago.Since Bill & Mary are here, Jim decided to take them down to the Lawn Bowling club here in Northbridge. Invited John Barton along for a nice even four-some.
Bowls (also known as Lawn Bowls or Lawn Bowling or its true name crown green bowls) is a precision sport in which the goal is to roll slightly radially asymmetrical balls (called bowls) closer to a smaller white ball (the "jack" or "kitty" or "sweetie") than one's opponent does. The first team to reach 21 wins.
Jim and Mary were a team and Bill and John were the other.
As you can see, its a fast paced sport. One where you DEFINITELY can't drink a beer, while enjoying the great outdoors. Oh wait... Sunday afternoon. Beer. Rolling Balls. Hmmmm, sounds like a fun afternoon for most guys (and Mary, too!)
Thursday, October 4, 2007
AWAKE
I got changed super quickly (Andrew still managed to fall asleep while waiting on my bed!) and dropped him off at Nicole Mattani's house. Emmalee was already there--in the bath getting cleaned up when I walked in.She had so graciously offered to watch the kids. Even come to the hospital and sit with Andrew if he didn't get released so I could make it to the show. Luckily it didn't come down to that. Andrew was OK with the drop off. It definitely took until the ibuprofen kicked in before his personality came back. He was happily excited to see Grace, that's for sure! (Ironic the name of JG's album is AWAKE, since Andrew couldn't stay awake and the goal for me is to STAY AWAKE for the show!)
Nicole insisted on driving me to the Opera House instead of having me take the bus, so I got chauffered right to the steps. Got there in time to meet Jim and his parents. We went inside and I had a quick bowl of yummy potato and cumin soup with bread and cranberry juice. Just before they closed. Luckily since I hadn't eaten really anything all day except sour gummy snakes and a half of a brownie left from the night before. Nothing like sugar to keep you going!
Saw all but 2 of the opening act's show. Katie Noonan was a bluesy/jazzy sort of lounge singer. Her voice was amazing, but the music wasn't really our type.
At 9pm, Josh Groban came out on stage. The opera house is much smaller on the inside than I expected, so it was more intimate that expected. There was a screen from the ceiling so we could see close up, too!
WHOA!!!! Josh Groban has the type of voice that was made for the Opera House. For a 26 year old, he is amazing. OK, even if he was 75, he would be amazing. His voice is just unbelievable.
Caught a cab back and brought Andrew home. Emmalee spent the night with Grace.
Tick Tock Tick Tock
The pediatrician came by this morning and gave us good news. He thought that since Andrew was responding well to the antibiotics and he walked a bit (ok, stood for a minute) that if he would actually walk today, we would be sprung!
I had gotten an email from Liz C, who mentioned I might want to have him tested for Lymes Disease since his symptoms seem to be following alot of the same ones that her daughters had. Maddie and Hadley both ended up testing positive for it (they are out in CT, but still...) With Andrew complaining of aches, the fevers, being back in IL and IA in June/July and bitten by who knows what when we were back that I felt he should be tested.
The doctor was vaguely familiar with it. To the point that he had 'heard of it'. But didn't know the real symptoms, how to test for it or anything else. Ended up googling it!!! After reading about it, they agreed and said they would run the test. It will take 10 days to get results since they don't have it here and have to send away. DUH! Interesting thing -- if (and hopefully not!) he has it, they would not have tested since they don't even know about it here. Kinda scary!
We walked around the Fairy Gardens they have downstairs as a retreat for the families that are staying in the hospital. The nurse on duty challenged Andrew to count the fairies -- but he wasn't interested. All he cared about was trying to walk and enjoy himself. It was really nice to see him almost back to himself!
We went back upstairs and he passed out for a bit. The nurse came by to remove his IV from his arm since it was bothering him, so his nap was short-lived but you could tell it wore him out to walk.
I was hoping that he would be better -- that is for sure. But Jim had also gotten us tickets to see Josh Groban at the Sydney Opera House and I was really looking forward to going. But only if Andrew was doing better.
The release was official at 5.30pm. We picked up his prescription and headed home!
I had gotten an email from Liz C, who mentioned I might want to have him tested for Lymes Disease since his symptoms seem to be following alot of the same ones that her daughters had. Maddie and Hadley both ended up testing positive for it (they are out in CT, but still...) With Andrew complaining of aches, the fevers, being back in IL and IA in June/July and bitten by who knows what when we were back that I felt he should be tested.
The doctor was vaguely familiar with it. To the point that he had 'heard of it'. But didn't know the real symptoms, how to test for it or anything else. Ended up googling it!!! After reading about it, they agreed and said they would run the test. It will take 10 days to get results since they don't have it here and have to send away. DUH! Interesting thing -- if (and hopefully not!) he has it, they would not have tested since they don't even know about it here. Kinda scary!
We walked around the Fairy Gardens they have downstairs as a retreat for the families that are staying in the hospital. The nurse on duty challenged Andrew to count the fairies -- but he wasn't interested. All he cared about was trying to walk and enjoy himself. It was really nice to see him almost back to himself!
We went back upstairs and he passed out for a bit. The nurse came by to remove his IV from his arm since it was bothering him, so his nap was short-lived but you could tell it wore him out to walk.
I was hoping that he would be better -- that is for sure. But Jim had also gotten us tickets to see Josh Groban at the Sydney Opera House and I was really looking forward to going. But only if Andrew was doing better.
The release was official at 5.30pm. We picked up his prescription and headed home!
Like a lumberjack
All I could hear all night long, in between the beeping of the IV machines and moaning kids from tonsilectomies, was the sawing of logs. On my left, on my right and across the curtain from me. I have finally found a sound worse than Jim's snoring. I would have brought my music player and headphones with me, but I wanted to be able to hear Andrew if he needed anything. Didn't know that meant I had to hear all the moms on the floor SNORING. UGH!!!!
Eyemask blocked out the light, but its really hard to sleep with:
beep, beep, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzckkkkk, beep, beep, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzcuckkckckkckc, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzckckz,zzzzzzzzzzz, beep, moan, moan
Needless to say, I would have to guess that I got maybe 2 1/2 or 3 hours of sleep all night long. Man am I tired.
Eyemask blocked out the light, but its really hard to sleep with:
beep, beep, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzckkkkk, beep, beep, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzcuckkckckkckc, zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzckckz,zzzzzzzzzzz, beep, moan, moan
Needless to say, I would have to guess that I got maybe 2 1/2 or 3 hours of sleep all night long. Man am I tired.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Hump Day in the Hospital
Bright and early at 5.30am, Andrew had a rude awakening. The phlebotomist showed up at 4.30 to put the skin numbing cream on his feet and other elbow in preparation to take blood for tests. So of course, I was awake...
At 5.30 he was still asleep. That is until he had someone poking his left foot attempting to get a needle into the only vein left that wasn't already occupied or collapsed already. Dehydration and a little person make it difficult I guess!
I am thankful we didn't completely wake everyone on the floor. I figured we would.
After that, it was antibiotics, fluids and meds all day long. His fever kept going up and down. When he woke, it was back at 102ish (They work in centigrade here, so I knew it was 38-39 most of the time -- 37 is considered normal!)
Had to get back to back ibuprofen and tylenol pretty much all day long. The antibiotics were pushed 4x a day. Around 11, they ped came in and said that his sodium was much better and they didn't need to worry about dehydration as much. Still no walking yet though. The doctors were stumped by that. The orthopod ordered x-rays to rule out anything internal, but were going on the line that it was a viral arthritis reaction in his right knee. Poor kid is getting to be old hat at the x-rays. He plopped right down and had no problems with it. After all the pneumonia x-rays, he was quite excited to get another area photographed!
Rest of the day was spent in bed watching cartoon network and disney channel. Nothing like catching up on tv. If I didn't know better, I would say he just wanted to take advantage of it.
Jim came to relieve me for a bit at 5.30. I flew home to have dinner with Emmalee and Bill & Mary. Then shower, change and pack up for another night. Tucked Emme in and made it back before 8.30.
Andrew was just about ready to go to sleep -- if it wasn't for the kid across the curtains who was watching the Wiggles at FULL BLAST VOLUME!!!!! If I never hear Havenu Shalom Alechem
(Hebrew Song Of Peace), it will be too soon. There was no peace on the floor while it was playing. Plus the 12 Magic Barbie Princesses were blasting in the next curtain over. Luckily around 10 Andrew finally gave up the fight and fell asleep.
At 5.30 he was still asleep. That is until he had someone poking his left foot attempting to get a needle into the only vein left that wasn't already occupied or collapsed already. Dehydration and a little person make it difficult I guess!
I am thankful we didn't completely wake everyone on the floor. I figured we would.
After that, it was antibiotics, fluids and meds all day long. His fever kept going up and down. When he woke, it was back at 102ish (They work in centigrade here, so I knew it was 38-39 most of the time -- 37 is considered normal!)
Had to get back to back ibuprofen and tylenol pretty much all day long. The antibiotics were pushed 4x a day. Around 11, they ped came in and said that his sodium was much better and they didn't need to worry about dehydration as much. Still no walking yet though. The doctors were stumped by that. The orthopod ordered x-rays to rule out anything internal, but were going on the line that it was a viral arthritis reaction in his right knee. Poor kid is getting to be old hat at the x-rays. He plopped right down and had no problems with it. After all the pneumonia x-rays, he was quite excited to get another area photographed!
Rest of the day was spent in bed watching cartoon network and disney channel. Nothing like catching up on tv. If I didn't know better, I would say he just wanted to take advantage of it.
Andrew was just about ready to go to sleep -- if it wasn't for the kid across the curtains who was watching the Wiggles at FULL BLAST VOLUME!!!!! If I never hear Havenu Shalom Alechem
(Hebrew Song Of Peace), it will be too soon. There was no peace on the floor while it was playing. Plus the 12 Magic Barbie Princesses were blasting in the next curtain over. Luckily around 10 Andrew finally gave up the fight and fell asleep.
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