tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25365146984755716022012-02-10T02:37:20.645-08:00Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.comBlogger1031100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-72869672096422903902012-02-10T02:37:00.000-08:002012-02-10T02:37:20.674-08:00

Have you seen this before? Or perhaps this: We keep forgetting all about it, and then randomly, someone will ask us if it's my Justin. Why yes it is. Or, we get yet another letter from an adoring fan in the post. Or it gets 'returned' to us as it ended up in some one's inbox in error (are you kidding me?!) Thankfully, we don't get hate mail anymore.  (I know!  Started to freak me out a bit

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-8575031256880053712012-02-09T01:26:00.000-08:002012-02-09T01:26:07.168-08:00

Yay!  Happy Birthday to Sophie! While we were having a holiday in Waihi, Sophie turned one.  What a special little girl is our niece.  I know, we're biased, but we're allowed to be.  Gran put on a lovely little birthday party for the kids. Sophie was enthralled with us all serenading her, and the boys were very thankful that she so thoughtfully had a birthday so they could scoff lollies and

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-47648630610924948612012-02-07T17:09:00.000-08:002012-02-07T17:09:45.999-08:00

Samuel is 5 and started school yesterday. How we all made it to this point is a mystery to me. Even just being organised with all the stuff we needed was hard enough! I had my 3rd boy, Quinn, and ended up in hospital with him for 6 nights.  On the day I was released, I was so relieved, cos the last day to get Sam's uniform was the next day! So in the pouring rain, I ripped down to the school and

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-60895008378695628602012-02-05T23:51:00.000-08:002012-02-06T00:03:29.062-08:00

So, I read a few blogs.  A while back, a friend's husband sent me the link for Kiwi Mummy Blogs.  On there I have enjoyed reading a few women's blogs, including Mummyzilla's.  Maybe it was the name that first attracted me, but I find I have a bit in common.  I was recently inspired by her post here:  http://mummyzilla.blogspot.co.nz/2012/01/12-in-2012.html. I totally related to how our blogs

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-72524954609971955632012-01-30T13:34:00.001-08:002012-02-04T23:04:02.357-08:00

Blog 5 years ago, this very minute, I was 11 hrs away from established labour. I had no idea what I was in for! I was going to be a near- perfect mum. Patience, creativity, wisdom, nurturing would all be who I was. How ridiculously naive I was.  One thing I overestimated was labour. I'd been fearing it, & wondering when it would start for a week. Would my waters break at the mall? Would I know

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-83697988713692194952012-01-28T14:55:00.000-08:002012-01-28T14:55:42.803-08:00

His hair is bleached blond and tassled from the sea air. He toddles along the boardwalk, struggling to keep up with us. A plaintive little voice calls out, "Dada, you hafta help me carry my bucket..." The epitome of cuteness. It occurs to me at that point, that many years ago, my husband was a cute blond 2 year old boy. In a snapshot moment, I wonder if he was like this lil guy. Innocently

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-92210266721206637632012-01-28T14:46:00.000-08:002012-01-28T14:46:42.821-08:00

So, another shot today. Today I rigged my line with a special spaceship sinker. Truly! It helps catch UFO's... Like the first object I hauled in off Waihi Beach - a latex rubber glove. Yum. Not. We all hung out down there together. The boys again running around like mad things in the sand, the wonderful guy I married wearing the baby, and me. Trying not to look like a total goon while

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-64884658138864029592012-01-26T16:28:00.000-08:002012-01-26T16:28:21.327-08:00

I have always enjoyed a spot of fishing.  My Dad taught me everything I know, and now that knowledge has been added to by the fishing guy at FCO.  I went in last week with a specific, impossible request.  I don't want to spend a lot of dosh, but I want a rod that will be able to be used to fish off a both (with my Dad), and to fish off the beach.  The fishing guy (Mr FG) looked at me like I was a

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-39752571240611343782012-01-21T01:06:00.000-08:002012-01-21T19:40:18.686-08:00

Amanda in Action So, Tuesday last week dawned...  blimmin cold and overcast and very very windy!  However, I had a free day, and Manda was going fishing, so I decided we would go join. Some of you may remember my post last Christmas about a trip to the Cadbury Snow Globe we did...  Well, similarly, I was amused this day.  It's not like it was the best beach day.  At all!  However, in true boy

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-88693444024334008922012-01-18T02:21:00.000-08:002012-01-18T02:21:15.155-08:00

First Bath Ever by Dada  In our house, Dad does the first bath.  Why?  Well basically, because after my first birth, I didn't trust myself to be able to stand for long enough without fainting.  So from there it became tradition.  Poor Quinn coudln't have a bath till he was a week old due to the lure.  So I was really looking forward to cleaning the little guy up!  As you can see by the photo,

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-21897214665383907572012-01-16T22:38:00.000-08:002012-01-16T22:38:38.460-08:00

It's so cute.  And so appropriate too.  Graduation + congratulations = gradulation! Samuel had his last day of kindy while I was in hospital after Quinn was born.  I was quite sad to miss it actually.  I know it's not a big deal in the grand scheme of things, but it's a big deal to me.  It kind of signified the end of his babiness.  :(  He's a big boy now, who'll be going to school!  Much to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-24308071820053194322012-01-10T18:09:00.000-08:002012-01-10T18:47:21.772-08:00

It's a little morbid. So I've been told. I have reached 35.  For those of you who are not yet carrying this number, this means you now tick the next age bracket on forms.  Yick. It says in the Bible, "to every man is given three-score years and ten".  That's 70 years. I'm halfway there! So before I go out to the yard and find a bit of mud and start wallowing in it, I do the grown-up thing (

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-58077427948142149402012-01-06T01:02:00.000-08:002012-01-06T01:02:38.832-08:00

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittensBright copper kettles and warm woolen mittensBrown paper packages tied up with stringsThese are a few of my favorite things Oh yes, any girl who has romanticised about anything, has learned the lyrics to that song, sung so... effortlessly and dramatically by Julie Andrews.  2012 has begun.  Many people are sitting about making New Years Resolutions

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-42915669845742721232012-01-02T12:40:00.000-08:002012-01-02T12:52:28.874-08:00

If you know me, you know that I'm a little... old-fashioned I guess.  A bit of a Nana.  I love to crochet, sew, cross-stitch and a few other needle-working type things.  In the same vein, I love fruit cake.  It's a dying love amongst my friends.  Most would choose something else, like a rich mud-cake, or a citrus cake etc.  Me?  I adore a good fruit cake. Last year, I went in search of the

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-61672760000519063662011-12-28T16:06:00.000-08:002011-12-28T16:06:43.761-08:00

Photos by Mellissa Gallichan Trying for babies. Pregnancy. Pending birth. Birth. Recovery. Getting to know the rhythms of your newborn. Attempting to maintain the facade of 'normalcy' despite being woken multiple times during the night. Anyone who has experienced any of the above, knows what I'm talking about.  It's struck me lately, that it's a teensy bit like the brotherhood that I

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-37654679880418377362011-12-26T00:59:00.000-08:002011-12-26T01:00:18.360-08:00

So the whole year winds down...  or builds up to Christmas.  Depends on how you look at it. With the busyness of everyday commitments, and getting children to various destinations, and being involved with things at church, for me it often feels like it's winding down. But really, it builds up to Christmas. Especially for kids. Christmas means holidays, and time with Mum & Dad where they are

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-59195535631476637202011-12-23T01:05:00.000-08:002011-12-23T01:05:20.920-08:00

So when 7 boys hang out...  This is a sample of the ideas of fun they come up with.  (Admittedly, the 3 smallest boys weren't involved, but they WANTED to be!).  Didn't take long before Keelia decided to get in on the action too...  Then all 5 got in and off down they went again.  And again.  And again... TAKE ONE...    TAKE TWO...   TAKE THREE!!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-82418150719853020562011-12-22T00:24:00.000-08:002012-01-18T02:23:35.098-08:00

Yes, it took us two weeks. Yes, we did know we were having a boy. Still, it took two weeks.  :o) We like to make sure we choose a name with a good meaning, and also one that seems to fit the child. So what does Quinn mean?  It means "Intelligent; Godly insight".  Mateo means "Gift from God".  And this little guy is exactly that - a gorgeous gift from our God.  Chilling out after a feed...  

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-63921822168343479852011-12-16T19:21:00.000-08:002012-01-18T02:23:35.093-08:00

Sam & Zach love him... After a week in Middlemore, I was ecstatic to be told we were able to go home.  It was all I could do to keep myself from packing everything up first thing in the morning.  I knew I had to wait till at least 4pm for his last lot of IV antibiotics, so it was lovely to have my Mum come and spend time with me, and then Kat. So in sum-up, the Peds doctor came and did one

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-20998128011331484172011-12-11T16:54:00.001-08:002012-01-18T02:23:35.084-08:00

The first night was pretty standard. Me-sore, tired... But I was so happy to no longer be wondering when labour is going to start. Him-sleepy... And so LOUD! I needed to sleep with him on me, skin to skin as much as possible to see if it relaxed his breathing. So off to the land of Nod we'd go, only to be harshly transported back with a jolt when he'd go from silence to full-on yelling! Then it

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-62687003294642871552011-12-10T14:10:00.001-08:002012-01-18T02:23:24.341-08:00

So, I asked Justin to start this post with his thoughts...  Sorry folks, he only managed the title.  :) Reporting direct from Middlemore; thanks Amcor! Meeting my precious boy Our third boy has made his very speedy entrance into this world of ours on the 8th of Dec at 7.08pm at Botany via Waterbirth (I do so love water-births!).  I was a week overdue and have to confess, I woke up that

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-61404184645969178692011-12-03T16:44:00.001-08:002011-12-03T17:26:01.267-08:00

First Cuddles with my Nephew! Yippee!  Marcel & Sarah's baby arrived safely on the 28th Nov 2011 at 10.17am via c-section after a long and hard labour of 31 hours.  We are all so stoked to have our wee nephew in our life and think he is so completely adorable!  Sarah did so amazingly well, and was such a trooper - we're all very very proud of her! Josiah, in true Gallichan form, was no

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-60984760533509186122011-11-30T16:23:00.001-08:002011-12-03T17:22:34.671-08:00

113cm around, (photo by Mellissa Gallichan) My dear sis gave up her time and worked with rather 'difficult' subjects to get some photos of us as a family.  I wanted to do this before our newest little baby arrives and the family dynamics change yet again, forever.  We who are four, shall become five!  We are so very much looking forward to meeting our baby and having the privilege of being

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-68556130015136137302011-11-23T21:57:00.001-08:002011-12-03T17:22:19.998-08:00

Photo's by Mellissa Gallichan There are moments in mothering that just completely melt my heart and make me want to be able to shut my eyes and 'photograph' the feeling so that I can revisit it over and over...  The way that Isaac completely believes in the power of a Mummy-kiss is one of these such moments.  It took me a while to start this with him, because Samuel wasn't ever distracted into

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-1205282589420139472011-11-09T15:31:00.000-08:002011-11-09T15:31:10.637-08:00

What the crazy?!?! This cheeky little sod who clearly has an ego the size of an elephant, was high-tailing it across my warm deck in the middle of the day to... what? I mean, what did he think he was going to accomplish apart from aggravate the hippo-woman of the house who has decided him and his species completely offend me!! Some Snail Facts: 1. "Snails have thousands of microscopic

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-81858421221894127512011-10-24T20:08:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:10:12.119-07:00

Soo....  the garden is still growing great, however, I have been invaded. Truly!  So I planted some Marigolds, you know, to keep the pests away.  See the top left of this photo.  I surrounded them with eggshells to keep the infernal marauders away, but apparently, I have the 'tough' variety.  Night 1=1 marigold down, night 2=another marigold down, night 3=another!  Then nothing.  The other 3

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-22430567007941870572011-10-10T19:52:00.000-07:002011-10-24T20:10:41.989-07:00

I've never really felt that I 'nest' as such, before a baby arrives. However, my husband thinks I do. (In the past, this takes the form of a wife suddenly having a tantrum about things around the house that need to be 'sorted' and the husband deciding for his health's sake, he'd better pitch in and help the wife 'sort' her stuff before she explodes. But I never get into cleaning.) With baby

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-23754085473495978062011-08-21T16:07:00.000-07:002011-08-21T16:18:22.805-07:00

So I gave it a shot last night. We’ve been talking it up a little for about 2-3 weeks, and he’s been so excited, to the point of crying when he’s had to go back to his cot after story time & prayers. He’s also been prepped that the dummy stays in the cot. No dummys in big beds. Justin left for Melb last night, so I figured this week is a good one to try so I don’t have to worry about the

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-56025973969274992862011-08-06T22:54:00.000-07:002011-08-06T23:13:41.201-07:00

This weekend Samuel started swimming lessons. I have to confess, I was nervous. Not for him, but for me. I thought the chances of him having a total meltdown and deafening everyone in the pool, were pretty realistic. Why? Well, only because he has never 'willingly' put his head under right up till last summer. And even then, he only did it about 3 times, when he was trying to be the same as

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-77214030832076003402011-07-26T21:21:00.000-07:002011-07-26T21:33:59.809-07:00

Today was another 'boy' day. :o) Yesterday we went back to watch the 'hoctas' down in Papakura where my brothers are working. Today Marcel offered to take the boys with him on a trip to the dump in Tuakau. I decided to go along for the ride (sorry little unborn bubba for the bumpy ride and thank you for making me feel sick most of the day afterwards!). At first, Sammy was very unhappy and

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-20035618250540957952011-06-13T19:00:00.001-07:002011-06-13T19:26:05.764-07:00

What a little boy's dream! Today we were lucky enough to see my brothers in action at work. But even better, we got to see a hocta at work - very close up! This helicopter was coming very close to Matt too. Exciting!A team of boys spends a couple of weeks out in the mangroves cutting and bundling up the trees. (Yay! I hate mangroves. Alot. They creep me out. I know, people will be

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-70521897322039180112011-06-03T20:04:00.000-07:002011-06-03T20:14:18.522-07:00

We have a rule in our house - 'no-one is allowed to touch the camera except for Mama & Dada UNLESS we specifically ask Sam to take a picture'.However, as you can see below, sometimes when I download the photos on my camera, my eyes are assailed by over 30 pictures at a time of toys, furniture and flooring which I KNOW that I did not take. This time, after going through about 20 shots of the

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-12727770591955549302011-06-02T20:20:00.000-07:002011-06-03T20:33:09.832-07:00

The baby Lee has turned 2.He has grown up so fast since Christmas. In January, I accompanied my hubby on a work trip, and Isaac was only saying about 20 words. When we got home a week later, he had over 100 and he hasn't looked back since! He's now saying 2 & 3 word sentences, and actually trying to make conversation with us. He's running so much better than he was too -even in gumboots!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-41709636493990285412011-05-24T20:39:00.000-07:002011-06-03T20:59:22.859-07:00

Number 3 is growing nicely. According to Babycenter.com, it is the size of a 'medium shrimp', about 7.62cm or 3in.So far this bubba is making it's mark on my world quite effectively. I shan't upbraid you with a litany of complaints, but lets just say, pregnancy, is "not my favourite thing to do" as Sammy would say. I am already looking forward to the end of Nov when this small one (Please, let

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-66713161753228982102011-04-29T20:03:00.000-07:002011-06-03T20:39:45.807-07:00

See Sammy's news...We decided it would be special (to us, anyway) for Samuel to share our big news. We let him in on it at 6 weeks, and he has been a total star keeping it a secret. We are very proud of him.Our new little Lee is set to arrive approximately Dec 2.It has been very rewarding being pregnant with Sam being old enough to understand. He's very interested in when this baby will be

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-69228684034336020972010-12-26T15:46:00.000-08:002010-12-26T15:47:10.760-08:00

Cadbury has had a Snow Globe set up in various locations around NZ. It sounds magical right? You get in, snow swirls around you, the kids get to experience a little of a cold christmas. My cousin & I decided to ditch the house work, and 'do it for the kids'.Hmmmm....We travelled over to Devonport (30mins) and drove around for a carpark (20mins), trying to stay happy and light-hearted, all the

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-29049533294826021022010-12-26T15:24:00.000-08:002010-12-26T15:24:30.298-08:00

10 Dec, 2005, he married me.Some would ask why. That's irrelevant now, cos it's done! :o)Five years of marriage and we are still best friends. Of course, there have been barnies. We laugh at each other's humour, take each other seriously, and sometimes, not so much. I feel blessed to be married to a man who understands me (as much as any man ever will), encourages me to be a better person,

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-58635568977272454562010-12-17T01:01:00.000-08:002010-12-17T01:25:43.075-08:00

It's happened.Stitches.3 of them.Was I cool? Yes, I was very cool. Panic did not visit my home that day. Irritation did very briefly, however. Sometimes I feel like such a bad mother!Samuel was upstairs on his bed, "thinking about stuff" he later explained, when I hear a thump breach the silence. I stood at the bench waiting for the cry. Nope, pretty sweet. Oh no, there it is.Wailing.It

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-23363843748078253842010-12-14T00:57:00.000-08:002010-12-14T01:24:19.441-08:00

I've had a rocky road with Christmas.Don't get me wrong, it started out great!Every year my Mum shouldered all the work and man, we DID Christmas! It involved a tree-weeding session (helping out some poor tree in the wops on the side of the road that was only going to get culled at a later date anyway) in the dark. This usually involved Dad saying "lets get that one" (6ft tree) after 5mins.

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-86056036588040321502010-12-09T20:12:00.001-08:002010-12-09T20:27:57.054-08:00

I wouldn't usually blog about something so mundane, but it went so well!Which, you ask, the Dentist, or Santa?Check the photos and you'll see.(You wouldn't realise he 'knows' this Santa - he was practially 'climbing' up me to get away when I attempted to put him on Dave's knee.)So now you see, it was the Dentist that went well. :o) Which was a relief to me, cos when Sam went the first time at

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-39175771255948453772010-12-05T17:04:00.000-08:002010-12-05T19:58:55.430-08:00

When Sammy does things, he does them properly!Today I got that dreaded call from kindy.Your son fell off the jungle gym. He is fine, but we have the ambulance coming just to check him out to make sure for certain.Sigh. Even when you hear those precious 3 words "He is fine", your heart still stops for an illegal second, while it catches up with that.Then I get the next bit of news. Well we

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-4082421394376110552010-12-03T01:28:00.000-08:002010-12-03T01:37:47.889-08:00

I am downstairs having a visit with my cousin when the sounds of hysterical laughter float down to us. I ignore it. Afterall, they can't be in too much trouble can they?...dum dum dummmm (as in sounds of doom)My curiosity gets the better of me. I go investigate. I almost wished I hadn't. On the way up the stairs, I meet Samuel - looking distinctly 'grey'. Oh-Oh I think, I should have come

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-17856688088373847942010-11-24T11:17:00.000-08:002010-11-24T11:36:50.930-08:00

Lately I've had the odd feeling of seeing Samuel as a 'little person' rather than just a child. Sounds odd, I know, it feels odd! When my babies were first born, I found it so difficult to see them as anything but babies. The thought of them old enough to actully go to kindy or school was truly bizarre. We are now almost at the close of Sam's first year of kindy, and lately I've been struck

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-42618431198189035082010-11-21T16:25:00.000-08:002010-11-21T16:26:21.204-08:00

I was privileged to be with Jo and Mike at the birth Finn Christian Pointon. There is truly something amazing and miraculous at witnessing this small one push his way reluctantly into the world. I know its all been said about how strong women are and how it's crazy that they can go through all that pain willingly to get a baby out of it, but it REALLY is TRUE!I think that during birth, you get

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-55832898691425199722010-11-01T18:38:00.000-07:002010-11-21T18:38:28.420-08:00

We have all been looking forward to the arrival of the new little Gallichan.Due to the complications with Erika, this time Kat was scheduled to have a Ceasar. I went in with Matt & Kat to hospital to wait it out with them. There is something rather unnerving waiting to be carted off to have your belly opened for a baby to come out. It was also surreal knowing that when Kat went away, she was

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-50299644502789389242010-09-21T17:45:00.000-07:002010-09-21T17:53:15.344-07:00

Today we were lucky enough to join The Funky Monkeys concert with WonderMums! The kids loved it - even Isaac! Here's a few pics of Sam, Erika & Isaac dancing and getting very excited!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-56435609970415570602010-09-15T19:44:00.000-07:002010-09-15T19:56:09.109-07:00

Today we were lucky to bring Paige home from Kindy with us. Once I made the mistake of baking with her, and she decided that's what we were going to do with our afternoon. Given I had to make supper for a bunch of girls tonight, I decided this is a good idea. Well, Zachy came crawling out asap and climbed up too, so we had to get another chair. He washed all the dishes. Paige is very good at

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-9635004307156958822010-09-07T02:03:00.000-07:002010-09-07T02:12:25.356-07:00

Spring has sprung, the grass is ris'I wonder where da birdie isThere he is, up in the skyHe dropped some whitewash in my eye!I'm alright, I won't cryI'm just glad that cows can't fly! So, my Mum's ducks got down to biznez, and they maked a bunch of babies. And dem babies is so blasted cutsie! They're not good parents though, so Mum has em all up in the house nursing them. The 3 grandkids are

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-91765418739617242822010-09-05T02:17:00.000-07:002010-09-07T02:25:56.165-07:00

Fathers Day was great for the men! Was great for the wimmen-folks too getting to cook for them, and buy them presents and write nice things about them in cards. We are SO lucky!Samuel cooked his Dad pancakes - he poured the batter, flipped them and got them out of the pan all on his own. I'm very proud of him! After brekkie we went to church then out to my folks for lunch with the family. The

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-88950083417837307672010-08-10T00:08:00.000-07:002010-08-10T00:22:52.632-07:00

So, Isaac is now 1 year and 2 months old.MOBILITY: Still not walking, but he is very proudly standing alone. And the things he chooses to climb certainly make up for the lack of walking! Appears to have no fear. Isaac loves to stand up with his hands in the air and say "yay!!" and look for every adult in the room to look at him and praise him.PEGS: Up till 2 weeks ago, he was still only

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-23966202896729707102010-07-17T04:37:00.000-07:002010-07-17T04:40:58.819-07:00

Before I became a mother, I dreamed about far-off places to visit. I dreamed of living next to mountains, lakes & beaches. To taste the food of other cultures, to soak in details like how they live each day.Before I became a mother, I thought I knew what it was to love someone sacrificially. To really put their needs before my own. I thought I knew what it was to be selfless.Before I became a

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-36771775602886058272010-07-10T03:52:00.000-07:002010-07-10T04:03:36.114-07:00

Wow - today was gorgeous! Clear blue skies, crisp cold air and a few magnolias blooming! So spring IS on it's way even though it was the coldest day in ages... So with our sick boys in tow, we headed off to the gardens. Every other person and their kids were there too... Sam fed the ducks, and Isaac had a go at Mama's ginger beer. And he would not relinquish the bottle till we got home.

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-10666923225941512292010-07-05T14:35:00.000-07:002010-07-05T16:35:12.706-07:00

Samuel has always had far too good a grip of the English language than is good for him. I thought it's time to collect a few and share...On our way camping at Easter, Isaac was screaming. Loud. Sam finally pipes up with "Mama, we need to leave Zachy at our house so he can't cray at me!!" (April 2010)Farewelling Justin to Melbourne, Jus & Sam were in the McD's line. Sam notices a MAF guy (or

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-54125988300862072312010-06-10T02:17:00.000-07:002010-07-04T02:32:22.558-07:00

Far out - a year has whizzed by with this boy! He has been a complete pleasure and joyful addition to our family. I have loved watching him grow and see how much he loves his big brother. For his party we had an animal party. So many of his friends did a really awesome job of dressing up. Isaac went as a white tiger, and Samuel as a blue dinosaur. Aunty Lissie made a bunch of animal

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-91859447676655529802010-03-03T23:18:00.000-08:002010-07-03T23:25:21.734-07:00

So up till February, all Sam's drawings have pretty much been scribbles. Then suddenly, and yes, I do mean 'overnight', he comes out with these!As you can see, here we have a car, and the brown circles with lines? Those are Suns. First he drew the lines that look like a ladder, then he added a cirle into it. The yellow sun is me showing him how they go, and then he drew the brown one next to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-72345908779267371822010-02-28T22:59:00.000-08:002010-07-03T23:12:47.786-07:00

Wow, I know everyone tells you it goes fast, but it really has! When this baby was born, we felt like Kindy was miles off! That we had a whole lifetime before it came up. We enrolled Samuel in Kiddywinks Kindy next to our church. He got to go along with his cousins, Paige & Hannah, and his good friend Josh from church. I wondered if he'd be a bit shy, or cautious, but nope - he went right on

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-28662805302768908442010-01-11T16:01:00.000-08:002010-01-11T16:16:58.760-08:00

Soo... I was cooking dinner last night.Cutting up Skirt Steak for a casserole.Samuel came in and wanted to help - I told him he could watch (after he'd dragged in his huge dining chair) but not touch. The meat was all bloody and not good for him to touch.Me being naive mother and all, decided to take this one step further... (Yes I can hear all you veteran mothers having a darned good laugh to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-62485382413001798822009-11-09T01:46:00.000-08:002009-11-09T01:51:57.749-08:00

Today we went to a cool party where an activity was to make a rocket for the kids. What fun for the Mummies! Sam wasn't very interested in the project till it started to look like 'something'. He's been playing it in all afternoon now! And even Zachy had a go. You can tell Zach thinks he is SOOO cool being in there with his big brother!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-47232249355557062692009-10-04T01:45:00.000-07:002009-10-04T01:45:41.938-07:00

This is officially the shortest his hair has ever been. He was born with 4x as much! I have to say, it was a bit of a shock when we'd finished, and I'm still not sure of it. It certainly makes him look older, which always makes an emo Mum feel ... well... emo!We started out just doing a short back and sides, but every time the clippers touched his head, he started giggling and wriggling

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-12972650599476936422009-09-29T00:17:00.000-07:002009-09-29T00:17:51.697-07:00

It seems clothes are not necessary for Under-3's in the Lee household. However, he did require a hat. I guess the glare off of the TV was a bit much for him...I don't think there's anything else to say about this...

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-55749222939932874262009-09-06T19:19:00.000-07:002009-09-06T19:30:46.703-07:00

I decided that 2yrs 8mths is old enough to start cooking. So Sammy fried all the little saussies & bacon all by himself. He did so well - I was very proud of him. He carefully carried his cooking down the hall to the bedroom, then sat up on the bed like a little king himself eating his breakie. What a guy!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-71666905553025253512009-09-06T11:15:00.000-07:002009-11-06T11:30:22.645-08:00

In August, Keelia turned 5. Now Sam asks if he can be 5 so he can go to school too. Aww... Keelia's party was 'beautiful'. It was a ballerina party, and they even had a ballet lesson, and then performed for the adults. So cute. Julia did an awesome job of planning/creating every little girls dream party. I've put in a few pictures below so you can see what I mean. All the food was in keeping

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-6596561295697674572009-08-31T20:42:00.000-07:002009-08-31T20:42:46.487-07:00

I left Zachy in Sammy's room to 'play'. I came back just in time to see Sam mashing his hard hat onto the poor bubba's head... :) Usually they get along famously, but the other day...Zach was unsettled in the morning, and crying. Sam informs me "Mama, Izick's crying his guts off!". That was funny enough but still it continued. I strap them both in their carseats, then dashed back inside

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-91145192990990742222009-08-19T22:45:00.000-07:002009-08-19T22:52:20.834-07:00

I felt the need to publish this photo - who needs a double pram? Not us. :o) I have to confess tho, that I have had some VERY disapproving looks from other mothers on our outings. I guess they look at Sammy and think he'll just biff his brother when he's had enough. But he very politely calls out "Mama, I don't want Isaac now", and that's the cue to get Sam out of the pram. He waits

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-18572952023696339122009-07-31T21:08:00.000-07:002009-08-31T21:16:02.748-07:00

Nate just steals the hearts of everyone. He was ultra cute at his party - crawling about playing with balloons, kids and getting loves from the adults. Totally LOVED his cake - one of my favourites. Kids got into playing Pass the Parcel, and some of our older ones are actually starting to get it (go Sam!).We have loved having Nate in our lives and are looking forward to seeing him grow up!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-86753505250925861702009-07-09T01:55:00.000-07:002009-07-09T02:13:53.005-07:00

What a heart-warming smile this little angel has! He was gracing us with these from his third week. He's not too generous with them yet - makes them worth working for.

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-34045804859909769672009-06-22T19:17:00.000-07:002009-06-22T19:22:08.788-07:00

I believe it's an awesome time watching an older sibling take in the new baby as their own.We've seen him ask for cuddles from 'someone' just to hand him off to Mama and tell that person that they're not to cuddle him...He tells him to stop crying (trying to explain that he's a baby and it's how he talks is ... interesting).He sets up all his cars under the playgym and plays right beside Isaac -

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-74541119225132849082009-06-13T01:05:00.000-07:002009-08-31T21:16:49.974-07:00

Our wee Josh is wee no more. He has turned one with all the enthusiasm of a fun-loving little boy. I was trying to get a good photo of him brooming his car around, but man, he can crawl fast! He is a real credit to his parents who have done a fantastic job with him. We love you, Josh - Congratulations!!!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-50907902897921781552009-06-11T01:33:00.000-07:002009-08-31T21:17:04.917-07:00

Our wee Erika is no longer so wee anymore. She turned one on the 11th with all the sweetness in the world. She is such a wonderful part of our family, and we are all delighted by her gorgeous smile and beautiful personality.Matt & Kat have done a wonderful job of raising her - she is a real credit to them. We are proud of you all!As you can see in this photo Michael took, Sammy & Erika think

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-56721882097548062062009-06-10T17:54:00.000-07:002009-06-10T17:54:42.296-07:00

Anyone with kids, especially small kids, will enjoy this article...

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-65499686865754459072009-06-05T21:20:00.000-07:002009-06-05T21:53:18.356-07:00

Only took 6 days this time. :o) Thanks for everyone's positive comments on our choice too. As much as we loved the name Miles, we felt it would be a little ironic to dub him that.The above pictures show Sam's first request for a cuddle of Isaac - as you can see, he is delighted. Nothing like that sight to make a Mama really proud! The second shot is of Sammy cuddling his brother this

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-73436928819483103272009-06-04T20:32:00.000-07:002009-06-04T20:52:54.482-07:00

Wow! It seems so long ago now, that we first experienced the miracle of being entrusted with a new baby. We are so blessed to be experiencing that again, 2 years & 4 months later.This little (?!?!) guy is un-named, but not for much longer. He was born at Papakura at 3.54am on the 31st May 09 after 2 1/2 hrs of labour, shocking his poor mother with a birth weight of 4.890g [10lb12oz]. (Here I

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-59644910886899142852009-05-11T19:28:00.000-07:002009-05-11T19:28:45.333-07:00

37 weeks Pregnant with Baby #2. We don't know what the gender is and are fully looking forward to the surprise. This lovely photo was taken by Mellissa's boyfriend for us on Mother's Day (along with a heap of others). So I don't have much sickness now (yes it was rather regular right up till 26 weeks, then every couple of weeks up till 33ish weeks), am more motivated than I have been through

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-20252272485780292462009-04-22T18:45:00.000-07:002009-04-22T18:50:12.389-07:00

A HUGE congratulations to my sister Mellissa. I'm so proud of all the hard work, effort & total committment she had given to achieving her degree. Last night I was privileged to attend her graduation ceremony. It was a big moment seeing her all decked out like that, with John Key as guest speaker to boot. Mellissa has always been very talented with young children, and the Centres she has worked

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-83832389085114258022009-04-20T15:04:00.000-07:002009-04-20T15:32:43.621-07:00

The new baby is due to arrive in 5 weeks time, so we decided it was time to take the plunge and graduate Samuel to his big bed. We explained to him that he was going to sleep in the big bed because he was a big boy now! And he could take his special toys in there to sleep with him (Baby, Wombat & the 2 little pillows). We also explained that once he was in bed for teh night, he wasn't to get

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-70865452861361274752009-04-11T18:58:00.000-07:002009-04-11T19:53:53.781-07:00

Samuel LOVES chocolate! Possibly not as much as his father does, but definitely it's right up there! This morning I hid (obviously) his eggs around the garden, ending with Mr Cocoa Bear hiding in a bush. He had great fun looking for these & stashing them in his bucket.Listening to his Easter Bible Story, didn't ellicit quite as much devoted attention, but that's to be expected with a boy who is

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-4642335615967228172009-04-10T19:56:00.000-07:002009-04-11T20:00:47.907-07:00

The mind of a child is an absolute mystery. I walked into my room to find spuds scattered around in the vicinity of a yellow pick-up truck, parked in the ensuite. It took a minute, but then my eyes strayed to the candalabra... Obviously the empty prongs needed spuds! I would truly love to know what on earth he was thinking! I put him in the picture, took a photo, then advised him to truck

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-10061398833841110342009-03-31T20:46:00.000-07:002009-08-31T21:17:29.746-07:00

Far out, time does fly at this age (my age I mean). I wonder if that has anything to do with the amount of kids around. Riley turned 5 in March, and wow - what a big girl she is! She had a Princess & Prince party which was heaps of fun! All the kids dressed up and Carla cooked up a home-baked storm again (choc hazelnut slice for people travel as from far as Awhitu for!).Riley took to school

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-29443739738457427052008-10-31T17:53:00.000-07:002008-10-31T17:59:26.574-07:00

Myself & Samwise were waiting in line to pay for Cot sheets. The lady in front of us was paying with her back to us. Her shirt had ridden up, and her pants ridden down leaving a band of flesh and a small Builders "you-know-what". Then I see Samuel’s finger tentatively advancing form the buggy till he poked her slightly plump back (thankfully missing the "you-know-what"). She jumped a mile,

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-21810009264903677092008-10-23T15:28:00.000-07:002008-10-23T15:33:04.993-07:00

This morning after enjoying an Avocado which I've been watching all week waiting to ripen, I began to feel ill. Sam was happily playing in the lounge, so I decided to race to my bathroom where hopefully he'd not hear me. As soon as I began to empty the contents of my stomach into loo, I can hear him fretting all the way down the hallway till he finds me kneeling over loo... He runs up, puts

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-61451649079158759152008-10-09T16:01:00.001-07:002008-10-09T16:09:23.810-07:00

Yes, I can almost hear you all laughing at me and wondering what the big deal is. But Samuel is a child who has always seemed to think fruit is evil. It is apparently "yuck" and feels "yuck". He has NEVER let orange or mandarin pass his lips. (Apples & banana has been tolerated, and anything cooked is great. But no grapes, strawberries, stonefruit or citris...) On Fathers Day we were shocked

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-7859003617212296282008-10-02T18:29:00.000-07:002008-10-02T18:34:17.721-07:00

This week our new unborn bubba is the size of a sesame seed. Yet, it's heart is already dividing into separate chambers and it's brain is beginning to develop. It never ceases to amaze me how God ensures there is evidence of human life right from the very start! We are due 29 May and very excited. I can't wait to meet this little Bubba. Sammy will be the most ecstatic toddler when he gets to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-61218747755015246432008-09-28T23:35:00.000-07:002008-09-28T23:58:53.056-07:00

Whoever said motherhood is glorious can not have had one's 20 month old walk into their lounge stating "big mess"!They can't have dished up a meal and seen that same child pick bits out saying "yuck!"And they most certainly can't have changed the nappy on that child while he screams like you're using acid on the wipes...Whoever said motherhood is glorious can not have had one's 20 month old pour

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-67053270020733671262008-09-08T21:19:00.000-07:002008-09-08T21:23:50.319-07:00

September is bringing with it some sunshine! Yay! Cos now my outdoors mad baby can get outside to play. Doesn't stop him coming back periodically to check in with mum. :o)

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-42772758721222631312008-09-08T19:38:00.001-07:002008-09-08T19:43:59.795-07:00

Hugging is very healthy.It helps the body's immune system. it keeps you healthier. It cures depression and reduces stress. It induces sleep. it is invigorating. it is rejuvenating. it has no unpleasant side effects. Hugging is nothing less than a miracle drug. Hugging is all natural. It is organic and naturally sweet. it contains no pesticides, preservatives, or artificial ingredients and it is

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-75255970753778779612008-09-03T22:23:00.000-07:002008-09-03T22:25:42.231-07:00

Robbie is a huge part of our lives, and we are so sad to see him leave our shores to move to Brisbane (today we saw him off at the airport amidst much tears). Robbie has been the permanet smile, good mood, and funny joke in our family functions for years and years. We were lucky enough to meet him when I was just 12 years old. Pretty much since then we've had him staying during holidays, family

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-23592169326651001552008-08-26T22:10:00.001-07:002008-08-26T22:14:59.541-07:00

Well, one underestimates how hard it is to keep an 18 month old-going on 12yr old off one's laptop! He is always asking to see "Baby?" and "Sem" (Sam). Every chance he gets he's up on that chair poking buttons and playing with the mouse. When Mama happens upon his misguided curiosity, he quickly "presses" as fast as he can before he gets removed. So cute tho!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-78993364911039385312008-08-23T19:44:00.000-07:002008-09-08T19:47:04.178-07:00

When Sam lays eyes on a baby, he just has to go and say Hi, and ask to "howld?". So we carefully position the baby with a ready 'rescue' reflex in place. He loves to point out their eyes, nose, and feet to us. All the while saying "oohhhhh". Last night at our girls night, he was lucky enough to be holding Nate again. He goes "oh cutie!". So funny how much they absorb.

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-14444308463109302312008-08-07T23:45:00.000-07:002008-08-08T00:15:59.677-07:00

At the end of a long & grumpy day with the smallest Lee, I began running the bath for him. Bathtime is the BEST time of the day for Sam, second only to 'shah' (shower) time with Dad in the morning. I left it running while we attempted 'weeezzz' in the loo. When done, I returned the lounge to sort the warming of his dinner leaving Master Lee in the bathroom. I quickly went back to the bathroom to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-38740677869007798922008-08-02T16:50:00.001-07:002008-08-02T17:17:33.776-07:00

Nate Joshua Smith was born at North Shore Hospital on 17th July 08 (one month after his Mummy's birthday). Carla is recovering well, but being challenged with being a mother of 3 children! Nate is very cute and definitely has the Smith-Neale jeans.I'm very proud of this Bubby and love him very much!Congratulations Smith family!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-14141334918843398942008-07-16T16:42:00.000-07:002008-07-16T16:44:39.555-07:00

We are sometimes rather stupid. :o) Two weeks ago, my wee boy successfuly says "bickie" - perfect pronunciation and everything. I was very proud. Making him say it for Nana, and everyone. Two weeks have passed, and now he's asking for a "bickie" everytime he lays eyes on my caketins! Thankfully, he's also asking for "harples" (apples) which he thinks all fruit and round vegies are, so we

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-81641425634435518172008-06-18T22:47:00.000-07:002008-06-18T23:01:19.053-07:00

Erika Amy Gallichan! Erika ('Strong Leader') / Amy ('Beloved'). Mathew & Katherine have had her at home now since Monday and she is doing great. She has even regained her birthweight which is good news for a baby born with Pneumonia! Thanks so much to those who visited - it really made their days!

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-70246422262186731602008-06-14T02:14:00.000-07:002008-06-14T02:16:59.507-07:00

Well, when your child starts to talk, it's a given they're going to repeat something unsavoury at some point. Samuel, at 16 months has started saying "oh crap" whenever he drops something or bumps into something. Sigh. I didn't even realise I said it that often, but obviously I must do. Thankfully it's nothing too sinister. I've attempted to make him say it for visitors (reverse psychology)

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-73980035841289015582008-06-11T15:36:00.000-07:002008-06-15T15:31:59.497-07:00

Jo had a baby boy on the 8/6/08 at 5.40am. Weight: 7lb 8oz, Length: 49cms; Head Circ: 34cms. I was privileged to be there and it truly is a miracle witnessing the birth of a child! Here's a wee pic of Sammy with his second cousin. He is also Beautiful! So beautiful! More updates later, I'm off to pick Jo up and take her home. 14/6/08 The baby has been named! Josh David Pointon. Yay! Great

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-88231733417315939292008-06-10T13:55:00.001-07:002008-06-10T21:24:15.889-07:00

For those of you know have met my sis-in-law Kat, she had her baby girl! 9lb 6oz, very large baby for a small Mummy! No name yet. In neo-natal unit due to fluid on lungs. Will update with a pic later.Update: Baby Gallichan has been on oxygen all day, and had a chest x-ray to see what the problem was, and found she has a chest infection. No reason why - just is. However mid-afternoon she was able

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-57135204068490931252008-06-05T18:16:00.001-07:002008-06-05T19:12:45.985-07:00

Well, the poor Lee household was in for a shock when Sarah stayed. She can't eat wheat! Anyone who knows me knows I love baking. And I couldn't use flour! Yikes. So we sourced some cheap Rice Flour (thank you Farro!), and started experimenting. And to our great joy & surprise - they worked! So I thought I'd share some recipies with you that worked fantastic with Rice Flour. Then if you have any

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-25307945603059196012008-06-03T00:58:00.000-07:002008-06-03T01:02:54.886-07:00

Sarah has been staying with us for 2 and half weeks. Been really nice! She is one of our Africa buddies. Sarah's been travelling for almost a year and is leaving us to carry on to South America and finally end up back in Uganda to live - for who knows how long? Uganda? I know. You'll have to ask her why...We recently took her over to Devonport for a squiz, and then on to Waiheke on the weekend.

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-1843648583441549282008-05-20T17:50:00.000-07:002008-06-08T18:01:25.116-07:00

Ahh... To be loved as a wife and mother is truly wonderful! We had Justin's parents for breakfast to honour Juliet as a great Mother. Then I got to open my pressies - the boys picked a lovely jersey for me from Just Jeans. Sammy got me some expensive chocolate. Then my family all arrived for lunch to honour my mum as a great Mother too! We all put in and bought her a lovely jacket. We all had a

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-22897367595570176052008-05-09T22:25:00.000-07:002008-05-10T00:44:15.292-07:00

So, we did a trip around Africa. What happened? What did we see? Who did we meet? Too much to put here. I'll put the bare details here and a few emails we sent from there. Here are also the links to the albums which contain the most interesting shots. Video to come later (we have 7 hours of footage to weed through!)For those of you who didn't read the emails (or who were there and don't need to),

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2536514698475571602.post-89012971005247203142008-05-06T02:33:00.001-07:002008-05-06T02:33:53.750-07:00

The Lees... Eco-friendly? Green-conscious? Not synonymous really… However, we had a baby, and prior to Samuel's grand entrance we did a parenting course. During this course they 'mentioned' stats about disposable nappies. Husband & I were shocked. Then were goaded by our consciences into doing something. We now use a modern cloth nappy system (means we're not using pieces of material pinned to

Moniquehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08170690497984354905noreply@blogger.com0