Ingitargirl

Blogging

2011-07-01T01:08:00.000+09:30

Of late I have spent more time reading blogs than writing them, but I feel like wandering back into the world of the random blog soon.

Not tonight though... I have a husband to go spend time with

But expect thoughts on mothering, homeschooling, food, heart and personal growth issues and other random thoughts soon!

Taliese's Wish List

2010-11-29T20:09:00.017+10:30

Clothes (size 4) - No branded stuff please
Duplo or Leggo
Little animal toys
Wooden Toys
Books
30cm bike and helmet
African style drum
ceramic tea set
Tiny things for dolls house (eg things from this place)
Hoola Hoop
Hat
Check out Windmill for lots of great ideas!
Sleeping bag
Boogie Board

(updated Dec 2011)

Sara's Wishlists

2010-11-29T20:09:00.016+10:30

(updated Dec 2011)

Sara's List:

Lip gloss
Stamp album
Kids sized shovel
A dog
A rabbit
Boogie Board
"Little house on the Prarie" books

Mummy's extra ideas:

Books
Parasole
Children's poetry book
Hoolla hoop
Craft kits (specific project)
Leggo
Wooden toys
Rollar shoes
Puzzles
Pretty clothes - size 5
Pretty shoes - size
Pretty belt
Hats

Garbag in, Garbage out

2010-02-24T11:19:00.002+10:30

I heard this song on the radio recently... very though provoking for me. (must learn how to add videos direct)

Josiah's Wish List

2010-02-10T15:20:00.013+10:30

~~Sand pit and sand~~
Wooden toys
Skin Drum
Wooden Train Set
Ball
Tonka Truck
Cloths (size 1-2)
Check out Windmill for lots of great ideas!
Duplo
Beach towel
Little outdoor basketball ring for toddlers
Plastic trike

I need a Label/ Buisness Name

2009-11-18T00:44:00.012+10:30

I am getting pretty frustrated being nameless, I am giving away the things I have made and would love to have some kind of tag on it, that says a name. Kind of the start of something, a seed for the future! I sold some hair clips this week, which was actually harder than I thought it would be... anyway I need to get them to the buyer by Dec and would like to present them with my label if possible...

So here is a list of random words I like and I am offering a free set of hair clips to the person who comes up with the best response here! I might not choose the name, but inspire me! It doesn't need to be from this list at all (it's just there to give you a feel for the image I'm going for), or be a real word. Just leave a comment bellow and a way of contacting you!

Happy, Little, Toot, Squeak, Moo, Ingridients, Saraliese, Sunshine, Lilly, Poppy, Fluffy White Cloud in a blue sky, Basil, Boo, Pea, Millie, Button, Sweet, Rainbow, Watermelon, Cute, Tot, Love, Heart, Smile, Kids, Made, Buttercup, Daisy, Giggles, Tickles, Birdie, Fun...

Things I have made

2009-11-17T23:12:00.001+10:30

The Big Blue Frog Song

2009-10-26T16:34:00.003+10:30

And while I'm in the mood for finding out the lyrics of the obscure songs my parents used to sing, heres the full version of one my Mum used to sing! (the bits in bold are the bits Mum sang.)

"I'm in love with a big blue frog,
A big blue frog loves me.
Its not as bad as it appears
He wears glasses and he's six foot three.

Well I'm not worried about our kids,
I know they'll turn out neat.
They'll be great lookin' cause they'll have my face,
Great swimmers cause they'll have his feet!

Well I'm in love with a big blue frog,
A big blue frog loves me.
He's not as bad as he appears,
He's got rhythm and a PhD.

Well I know we can make things work
He's got good family sense.
His mother was a frog from Philadelphia
His daddy an enchanted prince.

The neighbors are against it and its clear to me
And its probably clear to you
They think value on their property will go right down
If the family next door is blue.

Well I'm in love with a big blue frog
A big blue frog loves me
I've got it tattooed on my chest
It says p.h.r.o.g. (its frog to me!)"
P.h.r.o.g.

Now I can sing it right to my girls! LOL!

I Love Little Baby Ducks

2009-10-26T15:21:00.004+10:30

My Dad used to sing me a song when I was little (that he now sings to my girls) and it went like this...

"I love little baby ducks, pick up trucks...

And I love you too!"

I always assumed there was more to the song, and finally bothered to look on Google and discover the rest of the lyrics...

I still like Dad's version best!

What A Friend

2009-10-25T15:34:00.011+10:30

This hymn, has so often been a great source of encouragement and challenge to me,

What a Friend we have in Jesus

"What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do your friends despise, forsake you?

Take it to the Lord in prayer!

In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised

Thou wilt all our burdens bear

May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer

Rapture, praise and endless worship,

will be our sweet portion there."

Joseph M. Scriven

Pride Comes Before a Fall

2009-10-22T16:29:00.019+10:30

A few weeks ago I was cocky, downright smug... I had seen some things and was feeling pretty good about myself and about my relationship, kids and life. I even remember thinking 'pride comes before a fall'... but I took no heed. I found myself somewhere, they would never have gone, few people would have been so stupid...

And soon enough I find myself being humbled... It really hurts you know. To see yourself as you are, so see your own fault and failings ... to have the finger pointed at you and after my anger fades to be able to whisper ... oh it's true! How pathetic, how vile, and to look into loving eyes hurt and the importance of my own rights and hurts fade...

To see that they (the hurts) are not as important as they felt, that I am not so important at I have any right to make him feel like that. I thought I was the victim, and then I saw I was the perpetrator...

And then this is real love that comes and holds me anyway, and exhausted we despair, that we didn't look to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, that we didn't look to him.

In the words of the old hymn...

"O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer."

It was a terrible night, one of our worst, but yet somehow today has yet been sweet, theres healing still to happen and wounds that would have been better to have never been made, but I am so thankful for the power of forgiveness and the fact that we both could so quickly enter into that!

And the good thing about trouble, is that what you have suffered for, you don't easily let go of. I trust that this experience, while we would never have chosen it, will bind us closer together, strengthening our bond. (but it's a fine line and you don't want to dance too close to that edge!)

Preparing for Christmas

2009-10-17T11:35:00.025+10:30

I have been thinking lately that, while it really irritates me to see all the Christmas stuff in the shops already... it might be a good idea to follow through with the plans I make every year and start thinking about what I can do now to prepare for Christmas. To make it a beautiful and memorable time together with family, reflecting on Christ's birth, instead of a time when we are all a bit stressed and flustered and irritable with one another... collapsing on boxing Day glad that it's all over.

These thoughts also tie in with reading this blog about raising contented kids, (esp the bit about contentment starting with us) and my own thoughts about contentment and the new creative streak of late. I'd like to hand make as many gifts as I can, as well as preparing people(family members) for and sounding out how they feel about getting and giving gifts like those from TEAR, SIM and Baptist World Aid. My idea is to spend half on a gift for the person they can unwrap and half on one of these. We did this last year with Dave's Mum's side and I think it worked, I hope people will be happy with that... (best of both worlds)

It will also include a return to fly lady for her tips and ideas for getting ready for Christmas and making a plan of what I'm going to make when and how and for whom, as well as the list of those I need to buy things for. I'll also encourage my fam to start writing wish lists via last years blog, which always makes things easier (when you have a direction)

At the end of the day I want my kids to reflect back on Christmas and feel warm and fuzzy, to remember the special dessert of drink they loved, the family traditions and rituals and the love felt between us! I want them to enjoy giving to others and that to be a great focus to them and for them to be happy and thankful for what the receive! I want them to really know that Christmas is about Christ's birth and why that is important. More than anything I want that to be real and meaningful to them!

I think that being involved with things like the Christmas Child shoe boxes, getting them to make things for others and thinking about the traditions we would like to do, putting as much time and effort and emphasis on that as gift stuff (if not more)

When I think about that is it really surprising that kids focus on the presents part of Christmas, if that is what they see us putting effort into, running around and stressing about? Do you have any more ideas for helping prepare of a helpful focus on Christmas and what its really about!

My Beautiful Tummy!

2009-10-16T09:04:00.007+10:30

Comments by Sara (aged almost 4) on my tummy:

"Mummy your tummy is soooooooo pretty! It has pink and purple on it!"
"Do you think I will get a tummy like that when I'm a mummy?"
"Pink and purple are my favourite colours!"

My tummy when Sara was still in residence

Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-14T09:32:00.004+10:30

'

.

Creativity and Inspiration

2009-10-06T10:08:00.011+10:30

Well I just recently participated in the Great Down Under Nappy Hunt, it was a lot of fun and I got to see lots of fantastic businesses run by Mums like me, just making cool things to sell. It really seemed like fun! Couple that with spending time with the Cath from Ginger Crush I felt inspired! I have long toyed with the idea of making hair clips and other things that seemed within my realm of ability and suddenly I feel like before I have even done much research at all I'm on the road towards being one of those creative Mums! I'm excited, I feel like spending, I'm lying awake thinking of ideas ....

But the niggle at the back of my mind it that I'm not great at follow through. (I can't count the number of great ideas that never happened or took a very long time) I know I should just start by making them, then if they turn out any good, give some as gifts and then if the response is good THEN start thinking bigger.... but I'm already planning a store and all the things I can make in my *spare time* (LOL)

Oh and we want to have another child soon, so... yeah I'm highlighting here how unrealistic I am in hope that my brain will slow down a bit, but it's not it's just getting excited!

I have ordered some supplies and plan to go to spotlight or Lincraft this week to get more, I really can't wait!! I think it would be cool to have a name in mind now, so when I give a gift etc I can sort of have a label in prep for IF things ever get more serious.

I can't really read Dave's reaction to this, which in part I am grateful for, he is being supportive and not saying much, I imagine he has his reservations...

So any ideas re the name? I want something cute and happy and fun but not just tied down to hair clips.

All I have so far is "Sweet Ingridients" or "Saraliese designs" but neither hit the spot with me...
I also thought of "Cute as a Button" but a quick google showed that it's already taken.

Also let me know if your interested seeing what I make (I'm sure I'll post pics here when I have
made some things)

Pet Caterpillars

2009-08-01T14:15:00.009+09:30

While Dave was away, one of the things the girls and I did, was get a pet... we found some caterpillars in the garden and decided to keep them... actually there were LOTS of caterpillars but we caught 2 and put them in a jar with some holes int he lid.

Sara showing Taliese the caterpillars

The next day I decided the jar was too small for the 5 caterpillars we now apparently HAD to have (believe me it was a hard bargain getting Sara to be content stop at 5!) So the Caterpillars moved home to a more spacious plastic container with a pair of bloomers for a lid (with the pants bit tied up! I think it also made a prettier house!

I did not realise not much these small creatures both poop and eat - the bigger space was definitely a good move! I also did a bit a research on Google (this blog, this other info) and learned that caterpillars are actually very picky eaters, so we needed to give them the type of plant they were on to eat everyday - they won't eat just anything and they won't eat anything that's not fresh! I unfortunately wasn't able to work out what type of caterpillar they are, so we are not sure weather to expect a moth or a butterfly - I'm guessing a moth)

Well there was one busy weekend when I forgot to feed them, leading to an incidence of cannibalism of a smaller caterpillar, after which I convinced Sara to let the little caterpillars go and just concentrate on the two original inhabitants "Jack" and "Alisa" (sometimes "Talisa").

Two and half weeks later we are enjoying feeding our very hungry caterpillars and watching them get very FAT! (Hmmm reminds us of a favourite book!)

We are really hoping to see a metamorphosis take place - How cool for the girls to experience the reality of this transformation take place as they build cocoons and emerge a completely different creature!

In other cool caterpillar news - last night Dave noticed that one of out shrubs was absolutely COVERED in caterpillars - maybe the news got out there wasn't a lot of squishing going on in our yard? We have not dubbed it the caterpillar tree! (not sure if you can see in the picture?)

I will keep you updated when we have further developments in this little adventure. What an amazing thing it is to enjoy children's wonder and joy at things I would otherwise overlook!

ADDIT: Unfortunately while one caterpillar did form a cocoon, no moth or butterfly ever emerged (prob due to some rough handling) and we had to release the other caterpillars when we went on holidays! Will try again next year!

My other Blog

2009-07-30T22:44:00.003+09:30

Pics have been uploaded to Wilsonwalkabout of our adventures in Tasmania earlier this year (yeah slack I know!)

Reflections on disappointment with God

2009-07-29T15:38:00.011+09:30

I have been interested recently to reflect on both my own feelings in certain situations and a few conversations with others about their experience of God - including reflections of disappointment that God isn't doing what I/ they want Him to!

The undertone seems that I have been trying really hard to be a 'good Christian' in this area, and God hasn't rewarded me/ done what I wanted Him to! and the sypathy in me says ... "C'mon God a little encouragement would be a good here..." but I realise that this attitude really is way off...

As Dave reminded me "who are we to think God owes us anything!" HE sent His son to DIE so that we , being unable to save ourselves, could live!

God is gracious and does give good gifts to his children, He does bless us and provide beautiful moments on union and intimacy in our walk with Him and He does so much for us - but really it's not to be taken for granted!

What it comes down to for me is the state of our heart - Are we really serving him or hoping that he will serve us if we do x y z? Are we really in surrender to His will? Are we willing to suffer? Are we willing to OBEY? To walk in faith ... or are we still living in a form of rebellion to Him?

Well it is really surprising if I'm not experiencing God, when I'm holding out on Him? Thinking I'm doing this really hard thing because I believe it is the right thing and God would like it and therefore ..., but not being willing to give everything to the One who gave EVERYTHING for me?

Also if I'm not willing to grow or learn what God is lovingly and patiently doing IN me, resenting that he hasn't sent a quick fix to my problem/ made everything easier/ fixed that person already, I'm really looking at the wrong thing and it's not surprising that I'm left feeling disappointed and it's not surprising that nothing is changing.

If Dave had written this post it would be full of scripture, and I am sad that this isn't, because without the word of God it is lifeless, just my own thoughts and ideas. Just shows that I need to get into the Word more so that it flows out of me!

A Week Flying Solo

2009-07-14T14:52:00.003+09:30

Dave is away this week leading camp for high schoolers (yrs 9-12) aimed at working with churches to equip and train them in leadership skills. I really feel very excited that he is involved with this.

So while he is doing that I am at home with the girls. Last year it was awful as both girls were very sick, but so far this time it's going great!

Several things have contributed to this: One we prepared ourselves and the girls better. I have sought support (thanks Stefan and Ali!) and thus been able to give my support to Dave more whole heartedly. We have both covered this time in prayer - and also it is beautiful to hear Sara and Taliese praying for their daddy. :) David wrote them letters and they (well more Sara) have really responded to this.
I am relying on God for my strength and am generally in a better place with Him anyway! Dave has also really blessed me with thoughtful notes and encouragements before he left!

Sara has been fine, being older she seems to understand what is going on. Taliese however, does wake up distressed and searching everywhere for her Daddy and is more clingy than normal, but it's OK. We will be OK.

Also I am enjoying the different way I an relating to the girls, not sure if it's just because it's a change or what but we have been doing different things together (like catching caterpillars and hosting a clothes swap)

We also enjoyed a Veggie-face lunch!

However, I am regretting making this week so busy though - I think next time I will use the time to just be with the girls in a different way!

So my focus for the rest of this week will be prayer and trusting in the Lord - looking to learn more from him as well and a few chick flicks and some relaxing time out!

(UPDATE: Unfortunately I didn't spend more time with God, got sick and fell apart on the last day - but the first half was really good!)

Homeschooling thoughts

2009-07-13T13:43:00.006+09:30

Several of Sara's peers are soon heading off to Kindy, and so I'm thinking I should delve deeper into what exactly it is that we are going to do now that we have made the decision to home school for the first few years.

Do I buy a curriculum, write my own or a do a bit of both. Do I buy one curriculum or a bit from a few vendors? How do I choose which one to go with? Where do I even start this research? How do I want to structure school time? How do I actively incorporate learning into homelife too?

Jenny kindly re-lent me the book I didn't read the first time - so I guess getting stuck into that will give me some direction to some of these questions... Would probably also help if I ever get along to a home school park gathering...

I want to focus more on the love of learning and understanding instead of marks and results as such. I think this will give the girls a great foundation to achieve whatever in the future, because they LOVE it rather than because they have to. Although I will have to try to follow the government guidelines more closely year by year, as we plan to send Sara to school at grade 3, but if I were planning to go the whole way we could take a more relaxed pace. (letting them go a ahead in some areas and take their time in others)

So far my key areas would be Maths, Phonics, Writing and Bible study. (I'm pretty sure science and art/ craft will happen pretty naturally too - science more than art)

Hmm... have much to think about! Not to mention I have still to sell home school to Sara (who really has no idea what school is but thinks it would be fun to have me walk her there)

Less is more

2009-07-08T21:08:00.012+09:30

I have been challenged recently about how consumer driven our society is... how consumer driven I am...

It started with thinking about Taliese's birthdayand all the toys the kids have... why do people HAVE to buy them stuff and NEW stuff to make themselves feel like they are acting in loving way. Do the kids really value all the stuff they have... do they really need more to make them happy, smart, contented, etc...

(The problem is I understand because I love shopping and I love buying stuff and I love giving gifts too... just gotta change my thinking about how to do this well without buying into consumerism.)

Then I started reading this blog which moved the issue closer to home. These people are trying to not buy ANYTHING for a year. Admittedly she know how to wield a sowing machine ... but it's a big challenge to change my thinking on this. (No new clothes, furniture, DVDs, sheets, toothpaste, toilet paper etc... no consuming)

This article also had some ideas in how to help the environment and make lifestyle changes that reduce the amount of stuff we use and chuck etc. And this is always a good reminder of the long term impact of it all.

The bible says, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." 1 Timothy 6:6-7

I am challenged to make changes, live with less and to tear down some of the idols in my life that I simply cannot live without! (and I'm sure Dave will be happy with all the money we save). Baby steps to start with... I think the most important change will be how I think and feel about it all. Contentment.

These girls seem pretty contented with their blueberry and grape necklaces ...

Home Birth Dreams probably won't become a realilty

2009-06-24T15:15:00.004+09:30

If you have no idea about whats happening in Australia with new legislation affecting mid-wifes and their practices read here.

Basically what I understand is that as of next year, home births will be illegal because mid-wifes won't be allowed and doctors won't do them. The only way is to go it alone with no professional support, which I know Dave won't be comfortable with.

I think that it's terrible, no matter your opinions on it, everyone should have the choice to birth where they feel most comfortable, esp as the research shows that homebirth is safe! (Some statistics here). Also here is a cool article to read if you are interested in a doctors perspective.

So realistically, given the speed of my labours, next time I may be forced to be one of those demeaning car park birth stories - I can't think of anything worse...

Just doing my bit here to raise awareness of what is going on.

Australian Experiences Quiz

2009-04-29T21:18:00.009+09:30

Bold is been there and done that.

1. Heard a kookaburra in person.
2. Slept under the stars
3. Seen a koala.
4. Visited Melbourne
5. Watched a summer thunderstorm
6. Worn a pair of thongs.
7. Been to Uluru (Ayer’s Rock). I climbed it when I was seven!
8. Visited Cape York.
9. Held a snake.
10. Sang along with Khe Sanh.
11. Drank VB.
12. Visited Sydney
13. Have seen a shark.
14. Have used Aussie slang naturally in a conversation
15. Had an actual conversation with an indigenous Australian (Aboriginal).
16. Eaten hot chips from the bag at the beach
17. Walked/climbed over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. (But I've seen it!)
18. Used an outside dunny, and checked under the seat before sitting down.
19. Seen Chloe in Young & Jackson’s. (????)
20. Slept on an overnight train or bus (We'll tried to anyway!)
21. Been to Sydney’s Mardi Gras (and not interested either)
22. Have gone bush-bashing.
23. Taken a sickie
24. Been to see a game of Aussie Rules football.
25. Have seen wild camels (again maybe - but I was very young so not sure)
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Had a Tim Tam Slam
28. Ridden in a tram in Melbourne
29. Been at an ANZAC day Dawn Service.
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Held a wombat.
32. Been on a roadtrip of 800km or more
33. Seen the Great Australian Bight in person
34. Had a really bad sunburn
35. Visited an Aboriginal community
36. Seen a redback spider.
37. Have watched Paul Hogan
38. Seen Blue Polls in person
39. Wandered barefoot in the bush/outback
40. Eaten Vegemite
41. Thrown a boomerang
42. Seen the Kimberleys
43. Given a hitch-hiker a lift. I’m not usually the one driving.
44. Been to Perth
45. Have tried Lemon, Lime and Bitters.
46. Tried playing a didgeridoo
47. Seen dinosaur footprints.
48. Eaten Tim Tams
49. Been to Darwin.
50. Touched a kangaroo.
51. Visited the Great Barrier Reef.
52. Listened to Kevin Bloody Wilson (who?)
53. Killed a Cane Toad. (but I've been a witness)
54. Gone to a drive-in theatre.
55. Have read and own books by Australian authors.
56. Visited Adelaide (Yay!!!!)
57. Know the story behind “Eternity”
58. Been camping
59. Visited Brisbane
60. Been in an outback pub.
61. Know what the term “Waltzing Matilda” actually means
62. Gone whale watching.
63. Listened to Slim Dusty.
64. Own five or more Australian movies or TV series. (If I can count a Colin DVD, then we have three - Galipolli and Man from Snowy River)
65. Sang along to Down Under
66. Have stopped specifically to look at an historic marker by the side of the road.
67. Eaten a 4′n’20 pie
68. Surfed at Bondi.
69. Watched the cricket on Boxing Day. We'll if you count a church cricket match - I've even played!
70. Visited Hobart
71. Eaten kangaroo.
72. Seen a quokka
73. Visited Canberra
74. Visited rainforests
75 Used a Victa lawnmower.
76. Travelled on a tram in Adelaide
77. Watch canefields burning. Only smelt them.
78. Used a Hills hoist
79. Visited the Olgas
80. Used native Australian plants in cooking. But my Mum has and I might have helped her...
81. Visited the snow.
82. Chosen a side in Holden VS Ford. Holden - but really I don't care that much
83. Visited the desert.
84. Been water skiing. (Good old youth group camps!)
85. Read The Phantom. But not religeously or anything - all the other funnies are better!
86. Visited Parliament House.
87. Gone spotlighting or pig-shooting. Bunnies - youth group camp again!
88. Crossed the Nullarbor. (don't think so - I'd have to ask Dad)
89. Avoided swimming in areas because of crocodiles.
90. Listened to AC/DC. Probably if it was on the radio and at peoples places
91. Called someone a dag
92. Voted in a Federal Election
93. Have been swimming and stayed between the flags. but there aren't flags around as often as TV makes you think they would be!
94. Had a possum in your roof
95. Visited the outback
96. Travelled over corrugated roads.
97. Hit a kangaroo while driving.
98. Been well outside any mobile phone coverage.
99. Seen an emu.
100. Have woken to the smell of bushfires

{80/100 not too bad}

Out of the mouths of Babes

2009-01-25T20:55:00.004+10:30

Recent prayers of Sara aged 3.

"Dear God, Thankyou that you are my Daddy. Thankyou that you can keep me and have me and not my parents" (an interesting thought from such a small girl)

"Dear God, Thankyou that I didn't want to go to sleep and now I do."

A tea time moment

2008-11-13T20:42:00.006+10:30

I was feeding Taliese last night and was getting frustrated that she kept just licking the sauce of the pasta as opposed to taking it all into her mouth so I said, "Taliese will you just eat it?" Sara reached over and patted me on the arm gently saying "It's OK hunny, that's just what babies do!"

An All Nighter... in the name of... TAX!!!!

2008-11-05T09:25:00.001+10:30

I cannot believe that Dave stayed up all night doing tax last night! What a waste!

Goodbye October

2008-10-31T15:13:00.008+10:30

Every year I wait for the end of October with 4 year old type excitement, a shining light in the year... and wonder what joyous fun and special moments are to come, and then when it is over I bid it farewell with some kind of strange medley of relief, reflection and disappointment.
Some years I am sad to realise that it is over and there is no more, other years (like this one) I am glad to move on and look towards Christmas planning and preparation and the other things that make up life, and make us feel glad, stressed and excited. I am realising that this time of the year I can be a bit self orientated, and think that while it is nice to be spoiled (it feels good that those who love me would want to do so), it would be good to approach it with less invested in it, and thus be able to care less, come what may, responding with grace and sweetness to everything and nothing!
Anyway this is my ode to October

"Farewell my friend, the deceptive light
Goodnight and bring on November
More healthy focus to my heart bring
Next year teach me contentment!"

Taliese's Birthday

2008-09-23T20:27:00.012+09:30

I know it was ages ago, but I just downloaded the pics from the camera!

So here was what we all got up to on 21st July 2008

Happy 1st Birthday Taliese!

After opening pressies and singing to Taliese in our bed, we got up and had a yummy (healthy version) pancake breakfast!

We had a lot of fun at Kindergym!!!!

Then we went out for lunch at Bongiorno's, Taliese's first ever meal bought out!

First Babycino!
Which She didn't like that much in the end and Sara polished off for her!

Then after a nap in the pram we went on to have more fun and yummy foods at the Plaza play area

All in all I think she had a good day!

Contemplating birth

2008-08-15T19:08:00.005+09:30

I am writing this blog at risk of creating a scandal (if anyone actually ever reads this blog), but I have been thinking a lot about babies, and birth, and the timing of the next etc of late!
Prob cos I know so many people who are pregnant! :)
Dave's not really open to too much discussion right now, but I thought I'd write about my thoughts...
The more I look into it, the more I REALLY would like to try for a home birth next time!
I really like this midwife's approach to facilitating natural birth.
I looked at our private insurance and we were thinking of changing anyway and if the numbers work out for everything else, Australian unity look like they cover independent mid-wifes!!!
Now I just gotta workout when we think might be the best time to have number 3? (Not soon for those wondering, we'd like Taliese to be around 3 when jr is born and would have to have been with new insurance for 12 months before we could use cover for mid-wife)
But then, why bother ... from experience these things happen when they do! :-P

Adventures in EC land

2008-07-26T11:46:00.003+09:30

After what has seemed like a potty pause (Taliese getting upset when placed on potty - prob coz it was cold, and generally missing a lot) we are having a new breakthrough! YAY!

It started about a week ago when I noticed Taliese whacking herself on the side of the head. It was very funny, and I was a tad worried that she would hurt herself. Later that day it happened again and it really seemed like she was trying to tell me something.

It wasn't until the next day that I remembered that ages ago I had dabbled with a sign for potty that was tapping just above your ear with your hand. (I don't think i had done it for at least 2 months - given up really)

So I asked her if she wanted to pot and she grunted enthusiastically!

I took her and she sat happily and produced a large wee and poo! Since then we have tried to respond to this signal, resulting in MANY less dirty nappies and a happier girl on the potty.

She still gets very upset when we miss it and she has a dirty nappy, and she seems to be more consistent with the sign, when she is not tired and already has our attention (either that or we just miss it at other times altogether?)

Anyway it is progress and clear communication, so that is VERY exciting! Yay for less pooey nappies!

Sara's Funny Ways

2008-05-31T16:15:00.005+09:30

We were dirving past Hungry Jacks and the following conversation took place

Sara: There's a farm back there!
Ingrid: Pardon?
Sara: There's a farm back there mummy!
Ingrid: Ummm... what do you mean?
Sara: Old McDonald had a farm .. Eee -I Oh!

I thought this was very funny!

I was also disturbed that she knew enough about fast food to know the name McDonald's and could recognise a fast food joint! So we are NOT going to the outing to McDonald's with play group this week! If the weather is nice we might go find some ducks to feed instead! I think that can wait and for the mean time let enjoy the simpler, more nutritious things!

Things to do before I die

2008-05-29T22:12:00.005+09:30

Got a list of 101 things to do before I die in the mail (advertising)

To be honest a lot of them were dumb, but thought I'd write a list of the ones I would like to do one day having adjusted some of them to suit my desires!

Paint a self portrait (or even just take a class in painting)
Bury a Time capsule (might be something fun to do with the kids one day!)
Plant a tree and carve your name in it (a 25 year project)
Go on a holiday with no luggage (maybe when the kids are all grown up)
Have a night at the Opera
Learn another language (then visit the country)
Spend Christmas Day helping out
Spend a week at sea (will probably be sick, but what an experience)
Horse ride though the surf (good idea for a date Dave?)
Make pasta from scratch (another fun activity with the kids)
Swim with an animal
Sleep outside under the stars
Cook a meal made only from things I grew
Catch a fish (and then eat it that night)
Ride a giant rollercoaster
Build a tree house
Do a night time zoo excursion
Give a homeless person my lunch
Go for (a carry all your gear on your back) bush walk (on the Heysen Trail)
Build something that will outlast me
Research my family tree
Cut my own hair
Make a snowman and a snow angel
Watch the sun rise and set on the same day!
Wrap myself a present for my birthday (Oooooh I do like that idea - I like pressies!)
Play in a huge pile of Autumn leaves
Take evening classes with a friend (something arty sounds like fun!)
Write a letter now to my grandchildren
Read all the plays of Shakespeare
Do the 40 hour famine
Give blood (when I'm finally not pregnant or breast feeding)
Send a message in a bottle
Make a kite and fly it (another fun day with my cuties)

So that's only 33 out of 101, but I might add to this once I've given it some thought and mark them off as i do them.
I'd like to see the movie "Bucket list" for more inspiration sometime.

Little Ingrid

2008-05-11T15:47:00.002+09:30

Here is a video me as a kid that we just got converted from an old super 8 reel!

Ahhh those were the days ... All Mum and Dad's attention to myself! (I think I must be about 18 months old)

House Wish List

2008-05-10T00:37:00.007+09:30

This is a list of stuff that no-one really wants to be given as a birthday gift, but would be nice to have/do oneday.

Renovations
Vegie patch
Fresh paint
Enjo Stuff
Built in Robes
Bathroom fixed
Book shelves!
4 slice toaster
Outdoor setting

Sara's Joke

2008-03-17T01:11:00.004+10:30

On the way home from Mama and Papa's house in the car, while discussing her fun time with them!

Sara: Papa pushed me in the bushes.
Ingrid: Really ....??
Sara: Noooooo.... (laughing) Papa pushed me on the swing!

It was hilarious!

The Great Down Under Nappy Hunt

2008-03-12T14:57:00.003+10:30

The Great Down Under Nappy Hunt is on! And I am having lots of fun searching for nappy icons through the web! Check it out (There are prizes too!)

http://www.diaperdecisions.com

Dave has even been getting into it too!

Taliese's Dedication

2008-03-01T14:41:00.005+10:30

Taliese's Dedication

Taliese Isabella Wilson
will be dedicated to God on
March 30th at 10am
during the service
at Burnside Christian Church
88 Lockwood Road, Burnside

It would be lovely if you would join us!

A lovely morning!

2008-03-01T14:17:00.005+10:30

This morning I woke up GRUMPY! Taliese has been waking me up at night (think it's that little tooth I can feel coming through) and I was just tired!
I felt annoyed that Dave hadn't just decided to get up and look after the girl and let me sleep. (Hmmmm... maybe he was tired too and was enjoying his Saturday morning?) All pretty unfair, but I was feeling pretty flat tired and thin skinned!
Well I got out of bed took Sara to the loo and started to get ready with some very ungracious grumbling and generally not helping anyone else to start the morning off well.

[I hear you say ... but the title says it was a lovely morning... is it sarcastic or do things get better?]

Anyway we finally got breakfast eaten ... (actually I forgot to eat the toast i made) and everything/everyone ready for the pool and were running late. Got in the car and the battery was flat (Sara had been playing in the car and left the map lights on yesterday) The RAA was going to be an hour wait.
GRRRRRR... the day just working out to MY plans.

BUT... we had a really nice day! We ended up canceling the RAA and walking to the pool! I didn't really use the gym much when we got there - too tired and flat. But I relaxed and listened to my ipod after a brief workout, while Dave and the Sara played in the pool and Taliese slept. Then afterwards we walked home again!

We got pies from brumby's, bought a really pretty quilt for Taliese and some hairclips for Sara. We talked and just enjoyed each other. It was nice!
We think that maybe we will try to walk to the pool regularly on a Saturday morning!
It solves the problems of fitness (as the gym membership ends tomorrow), Taliese's morning nap (on the way there), quality time, and if we pack a lunch we could eat there then come home and maybe Sara would even fall asleep on the way home? (wishful thinking?)
Anyway it was really nice (even if we didn't get to go shopping for a new car seat) and I am so thankful to God for this unexpected and very undeserved blessing!
Well I am of to have a little nap!

PS Taliese was also able to stay dry all morning to boot!

What is the opposite of EC?

2008-02-19T13:46:00.003+10:30

The last week has been awful! i caught a wee today yay! But apart from that we have caught hardly any for days! And just when I was thinking of trying at home nappy-free.
On the up side we have been getting a few poos each day - but that is only because all of a sudden she needs to go MANY times a day! Once a day, morning poo was nice!
We are missing a lot too!
I fear teeth may be on the horizon! Either that or an entire day (Stefan's party) of no EC bothered her a lot!
I guess we sill just persevere and keep up the potty-tuinities from our end and hope she will settle down again soon!

Taliese's 6 month EC Update

2008-02-04T13:03:00.002+10:30

Age of EC tot: Taliese is 6 months old now! Wow how time flies!

We started at... 6 weeks old

Generally speaking we are doing... better than last week when I started writing this! We have just had a great week! One almost completely dry night, day, night (if that makes sense) We missed the start of one poo and that was all! The next day of course was terrible (EC - wise), but a busy day too.

How do you know your baby has to go / when do you offer baby a wee?
Timing: After wake up, and a while after feeds or if she hasn't been for a while.

Signs and signals: I must be picking up on some signs as we are having a drier patch but not observant enough to say what they are. generally i think it's her who is doing more amazing than me or hubby. Maybe wriggling or unsettled?
Farts are a good sign a poo is on it's way ... My hubby is better at just taking the time waiting around til they happen,. I tend to give her an op, no result then off to do something else again. I am very thankful for his involvement in this way and what that has taught me about the benefits of spending a little more time waiting! I am starting to experiment a bit with some sign language but not very consistent yet. I think it will be cool if she starts to push our hands away or something when not done as someone on here said their DD did.

Intuition: Just when I think it's been a while, or when I need to go.

Is there a difference for poos and pees? What cues do you use? We use 'pssss' noise for both and blow on back of head. Often just being over the sink is enough of a cue in it's self.

Which positions/receptacles do you use? Mostly the laundry sink (classic position) as right next to change table. At the moment she often looks down to see what's going on, so that is interesting. Also sit over toilet using classic position if out (me sitting too facing wall) and have used the potty a bit, but i often forget to do this at home. Potty is great for in the car after shopping and while we were away earlier this year! Still not great at going outside where there are LOTS of distractions, but will do it for a wake up absolutely busting type wee. Must admit I am often nervous she will poo too (and what would I do then) so I wonder if she is picking up on that?

Nappies, training pants or other? Cloth nappies between nuddie times and occasionally her big sisters training pants.

What are you doing away from home? Often nothing, if I am not out for ages she will often be dry anyway, esp if in sling. I do use the toilet when I can when out, but she doesn't tend to go often. Or a garden bed. We try to keep a potty in the car (but keep forgetting to put it back when it comes in for a wash) which is good for both girls esp after the weekly food shopping trip!

What are you doing at night? I try to take her at night feeds, sometimes she is already wet and other times she will still be dry. i have been keeping a bucket next to our bed, but keep forgetting about it and going to the laundry anyway (so tired!)

Who takes baby to the toilet? Me or DH. I'd like to support others to be involved, esp those who will care for her if we go out. Was very excited that my mum gave it a go (with success) while hubby and I saw a movie a few weeks ago. I hadn't said that the had to, but it was heaps good that they felt comfortable enough to try and toilet her.

Catches or Misses - how many and what times are especially interesting? we have BRILLIANT days and then normally followed by a day with every nappy wet. Thinking about looking at how my food affects her as I have seen some people write about that? (but also scared at what I might have to give up - LOVE chocolate!) Also probably related to busy days and my own levels of distraction.

Other insights: It is soooo worth it! I never used to know the bliss I read on here of no pooey nappies, but now we hardly get any from either of the girls.

What's your next EC goal?
My last EC goal was ...to be more observant, consistent and attentive regarding signs and signals. (Maybe getting better as we are getting more hits, or maybe she is getting better at putting up with my lack of observance?)

and to start using potty more and to get more confident wit Ecing out and about. Yes we are more confident generally and she is OK with the potty, but we still tend to use the sink more ... i think it's just such a perfect height.

A tip for this age/stage? 6 month olds are just delightful! How much more with sweet smelling cute little bottoms, on your lap and not worried about getting messy. :)

Baby Stuff

2008-01-23T00:44:00.002+10:30

Baby Essentials

Warm loving arms
Breasts (or a whole lot of gear to feed from a bottle)
Somewhere to sleep
Something to keep them warm (clothes, blankets etc)
Something to transport with in the car (if you use a car)
A good sling
Something to catch the poop, be that a cloth or disposable nappy or a bucket
Love

That's really all they need

A Plastic Free life?

2008-01-22T00:04:00.000+10:30

Here is a really interesting blog about a woman who has given up plastic! (Or specifically all NEW plastic in her life)
I'm totally impressed because she is a chocoholic, but won't eat it if it comes wrapped in plastic paper! (And for other reasons too)
Makes me think about how I could think more about how the things I buy are packaged! (Or even just work harder at remembering to take my green bags in when I shop!)

Personality thing

2008-01-12T22:54:00.000+10:30

Did this personality test, from Claire's blog.

I wish I could have a cow!

2008-01-12T21:07:00.000+10:30

If I could have a cow, it would be a Dexter Cow. We would have fresh raw milk and it would be lovely. Unfortunately both my husband and the prospect council do not feel the same way! (And probably the neighbors too!)

But on the upside, it does look like we will have chickens (or at least a coop) in the near future! Exciting stuff!

The garden and fruit trees are (just) surviving, so we will have yummy corn, peaches, tomatos and capsicum soon! I'm not great at remembering to water when we can, so maybe it's just as well I can't get a cow!

PS We are VERY happy that Eric is home safe! Yay! Keep watching the Kenyan situation though as people are still dying and Eric's girlfriend is still over there

Trying not to worry too much about Eric

2008-01-03T14:35:00.000+10:30

So my brother Eric is in Kenya right now, which is apparently at present a very violent and dangerous place to be.

Here are some articles about what is happening there:

Basically from what I can gather the violence has been sparked by the election (and apparent dodgey-ness surrounding it's legitimacy), tribal fighting, general unrest and lots of violence and killing.
I am worried for Eric, and just can't wait for him to get home next Tuesday!
For those who pray, please remember him, and all those in danger over there right now! that peace will be restored soon!

Things to do around the house

2008-01-03T13:20:00.002+10:30

Today we have been tidying up around here, after returning from Goolwa. Trying to find new homes for new toys etc and I have been thinking about all the things that need to be done around here/ i would like to do (some jobs easier than others) ... So I thought I'd start a list!

Outside:

Establish proper veggie garden - not easy with heat and water restrictions
stake the tomatos - oh well they died
Get a nice outdoor bench
Make a chicken coop and get chickens
Get a dog (in a few years)
Get a filter for the rain water tank
Organise system to use grey water on garden
clean out gutters (maybe get a gutter guard)
Out door setting
Get sand for the sand pit - done (but prob need some more)
Ideally it'd be nice to have a watering system (drippers?) of some sort, but we may never be allowed to use it, so it's probably not that important

Inside:

Work out what renovations we would like to do (bathroom/ extension etc)
Small shelve in laundry - done
pictures up in girls room - done
Get a Tall boy for our room - well we got a dresser
More clothes storage for girls - done!
toy cupboard (more plastic boxes) - we're on the way to tidier toys!
label rest of plastic boxes
do the dishes/washing/vacuuming (these ALWAYS need to be done - arghhhh!)
Bookshelves
Get rid of the freezes
more pictures up around - there are more but i still would like more!
de- clutter the front of the fridge - done!

and the list goes on!

EC Report (4 months)

2007-12-02T17:23:00.000+10:30

I'm part of an EC forum and submitted this post, so thought I'd put it here too!

Age of EC tot: Taliese is 4months Sara is 2yo (really being toilet trained using EC principles)

We started at... 6 weeks old with Taliese. Sara, we introduced to potty at about 18months (we didn't know any better then) in a very relaxed way and I only realised last week that I was kind of ECing her too but in a different way! (But the rest is just about Taliese)

Generally speaking we are doing... Taliese continues to amaze me! We are Ecing part-time and hubby and I are very happy with the progress. We ave good and bad times – normally more related to me not being tuned in (or giving her enough time to go) though. (thanks for all the encouragement when I was frustrated last month!)

How do you know your baby has to go / when do you offer baby a wee?

Timing: after wake up, and a little while after feeds. Finding day time wake up wees hard to catch this week as Taliese wake up in cot and makes no sound at all (soo contented, pity I didn't EC Sara, I always knew the instant she was awake!) so have to use intuition to catch these too. OK when we nap together or hold her.

Signs and signals: I find this tricky, but it seems at the mo if she gets really noisy in her chatter/ cooing a poo is on it's way. Seem to see poo signs for hours before poo , farts, stiffening at wee-ops etc., whereas a month ago there seemed to be no signs at all! She is generally so distracted during breast feeds at mo that I tend to miss plucking unless my husband says 'maybe you should EC her!'

Intuition: Just when I think it's been a while, or (since Monique suggested it), when I need to go.

Is there a difference for poos and pees? What cues do you use? We use 'pssss' noise and blow on back of head. Often just being over the sink is enough though she starts going before cue, on other occasions I really have to count to sixty (esp before poos) or I am too impatient and don't give her long enough

Which positions/receptacles do you use? Mostly the laundry sink (classic position) as right next to change table. At the moment she often squirms to look at us while going (cute) Also sit over toilet using classic position and have used the potty a couple of times (but she doesn't like it much) I find she is too distracted to go outside in classic pos. at moment.

Nappies, training pants or other? Cloth nappies between nuddie times

What are you doing away from home? Often nothing. I do use the toilet when I can when out, but she doesn't tend to go often. Probably because I'm not relaxed enough, or just a strange place. I do talk to my friends about what I'm doing, most are interested, but then it can feel a bit like performance pressure when I take her to toilet.

What are you doing at night? I try to take her at night feeds, but mostly already wet (with a bit more to do) as she starts the night in the cot (and as I said doesn't make a lot of noise about it) and then comes into our bed for feed til morning.

Who takes baby to the toilet? Mostly me, although my husband is getting more confident with it and is doing it more. I'd like to support others to be involved, esp those who will care for her if we go out.

Catches or Misses - how many and what times are especially interesting? Still a lot of misses, but interestingly she normally still has more to go, like she just got rid of a bit cos she was busting, but saved the rest for wee-op. Having said that I get a wee at most wee-ops and a lot of dry nappies too!

Other insights:

What's your next EC goal? To be more observant, consistent and attentive regarding signs and signals.
To start using potty more and to get more confident wit Ecing out and about.

A tip for this age/stage? Give time at wee-ops even if he/she has done a wee. Sometimes there is more.

A burning question? An tips to relax her (and or me) when out.
Also any tips for using potty. Is it best to start out by putting it on change table and use classic possition of facing me? I think when she gets used to idea she will like the interaction here.

A bit of everything really

2007-11-18T16:27:00.000+10:30

Just using this space to record some thoughts!

Welcome to the world little Nathan Bryan Mathiesen! (Well done Naomi you are fabulous!)

Brothers! - David and Nathan

Also his birth got me thinking about birth etc and today I stumbled across this homebirth site (through a link in an email) and wanted to recorded the link as I think it will be interesting to read, but not really interested enough in it all right now.
(As I may not have an option about home birth next time, it will be best to be prepared! Also heaps cool!)

Also while talking about parenting topics i finally looked up the wrap site and am keen to try and make my own one of theses days!

Been learning a lot more about additives in food, through a talk at GEMS and stuff my Mum has been going to and some reading too! It helps to inspire healthy eating!

Still doing the EC thing part time, with off and on again success! I love it though and it has just become the norm to offer both the girl a wee stop when they wake up or i think they need to go! Normally one of them has a good day while the other wees in their nappy all day!

And that brings me to cloth nappies! I am amazed at how fun they are! Naomi told me how to do the no-pin fold which i have been having fun with today. Also i am inspired to in the new year try my hand at sewing my own fitted modern cloth nappies (with my Mum's help!)
I am amazed at how Sara enjoys wearing cloth nappies so much more than disposable (and this preference had remained for some months so it's more than a fad or novelty! they must be more comfortable even though they feel wet. we are almost full time cloth nappy users now! Wow! V. interesting for me as i really didn't care about using cloth when Sara was little!

And now for a few fun family pics from our time on the beach friday night!

As you can see Sara enjoyed our Spaghetti picnic!

David and Taliese admiring the Sunset!

So hows that for a mishmash post!

Dry ALL night!

2007-11-12T21:30:00.000+10:30

Wow can you believe it but the nappy was dry from about 7.30 til 7.30 in the morn(or later, I'm not sure when she wet her nappy but we got up for the day then)
She even did a poo on the pot over night! What a clever little chicken Taliese is!

A very nice week!

2007-10-24T14:06:00.000+09:30

I have had a very nice week this week, starting with birthday celebrations on monday... for Me this time ! Yay!
Taliese and Sara were very good for me and Dave was very sweet too! I also enjoyed the use of a 'trumps card' for the day which was fun! (Not that a really needed it!) I think this might be the start of a new tradition for us!
We visited the museum and had a nice time there and basically just chilled around home in the arvo!! then out to tea with Dave's fam that night! Last night we had my fam around for a very yummy meal including poffetjes! yummo! Only downer was no candles to blow out.
Taliese has been ECing well today, which is encouraging as i thought she might be on strike after all the upheaval of the past few weeks. ahhhh!
thinking of moving Sara to the big bed this week, just need to pick up bed rail from a friend.
Oh and My friend Jacinda had a baby, Caleb on my birthday! I'm a twin! Yay!

(Addit: And then everyone started vomiting!)

DAVE IS TURNING 30!!!!

2007-09-25T00:25:00.000+09:30

FYI Dave's birthday is on Wednesday 26th of September!

More on EC

2007-09-24T23:50:00.000+09:30

This blog is in part for me to record some useful links I have become aware of, and also for those of you interested to get more info on this weird hippie thing we are doing. LOL (I'll add more links here if I find them later)

EC related links:
www.tribalbaby.org
www.bornpottytrained.com
www.diaperfreebaby.org

Oh an by the way, while we have days off as needed (which Taliese doesn't like much) we are still catching a lot of wees and some poop too!
I am finding this so fun, feel good about not using so many nappies and meeting a need I never new about. It is so cool sometimes, Taliese will be unsettled and I try comforting her, then think, maybe I'll give her a chance to wee. When I do and she does then often she will become more settled! WOW!
I have a lot more to learn, am basically at this stage just doing timing and intuition wees! Not observant or patient enough to read her cues too much yet! Also excited about making some modern cloth nappies soon!
Only sad thing is that bonds suits and the like, are significantly less attractive to me these days. Cute, but not very practical for outside of nappy wee-ing unfortunately :(

Additives in food

2007-09-19T17:32:00.000+09:30

Been a bit scared of late when reading ingredients lists to read all the numbers, even in food with "no preservatives" etc have lots in. Foods that I thought were healthy! To be honest, for all I know they could still be fine, but I'm inspired to do more research. (what are 'food acids' anyway?)
Found this site that could offer some answers if I ever find the time to have a good look.
Would like to know what the real badies to avoid are anyway!

More sleep!!!

2007-09-16T16:59:00.000+09:30

So excited! On several occasions this week Taliese has gone 7 (seven!) hours between feeds over night! I hope this continues! I may become a human again!

EC can work!

2007-09-09T12:57:00.000+09:30

Wow that web site was heaps helpful, have alot more to read still and lots to learn, but we are now giving the EC thing a go and have 'caught' lots of wees and poos! Very exciting for such early days! Can't believe it actually works! (Also missed quite a few, but thats all ok)

Stefan (my lil bro) is so cool! It was so fun watching him WIN last soccer game this morn! Some really impressive dive rolls too! Go the Tea Tree Gully Wanderers!

Also I am so happy that our garden now looks a little more tame! Thanks SOOOOOOO much to Eric and Stefan's help yesterday! It's a whole new world!

Baby stuff

2007-09-06T20:19:00.000+09:30

Baby carriers

I have been lent a hug-a-bub baby sling! I think it is great! Actually I think it might be one someone made as there are no tags and is slightly different to ones on web site, but it does the job and is sooooooo comfortable! Can't wait for next opportunity to use it again!

Elimination communication

I am sooo frustrated with this topic, I just want to know how to do it in reality, but can't get hold of a book. Amazon won't post it to Australia, not in the lib or any book stores or on ebay!
Info on the web is too sketchy and doesn't answer my questions!
Maybe we will be a nappy family after all! Oh well... just would have liked to have given it a go!

Edit: Just found a much more helpful web site!

In other news

Really enjoying Taliese's smiles and coos and Sara's gorgeous affection! So sweet

Ingrid's Wish List

2007-09-01T20:33:00.009+09:30

Something from the SIM catalogue
Something from the Baptist World Aid catalogue
Chicken coop or trailer or help to build it(please!!!!)
Necklace (silver) braclets
Chocolate
Stove-top Kettle (with large opening so easy to clean) - pref RED (not made of aluminum!)
Settlers of Catan (board game)
Scatergories
Sound System
Dress making scissors
Stratego
Domino trains
Monopoly card game - not being made anymore so this would be a challenge!
Haigs - lemon or dark choc truffles
Clothes vouchers
Electric toothbrush
Get my ring (from 18th) fixed/ re-done
Donna Hay magazine subscription
Training Terrific Toddlers book
Ostrich feather duster
Books or book vouchers (christian or secular)
Books: A slice of organic life, jamie oliver cookbook
Shoes
Make up - lip stick
Bath Pillow
Facial treatment
Metal Salad spoons
Table cloth
Massage
Pressure canner (group pressie)

NB. second hand is fine with me for any gift!