tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31044169299520021772024-03-14T01:28:07.515+10:00 CraftyPJMumLifestyle Parenting DIYBeckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.comBlogger421125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-37730685700663356012018-02-26T12:06:00.001+10:002018-02-26T12:06:53.180+10:00AROUND HERE LATELY <br />
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Well hello there....<br />
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It’s been a while between blog posts, I needed time to gather my thoughts and to heal, both inside and out. Most of you would completely understand and I thank you for hanging in there and offering all kinds of support. I have gained so much strength through my on line friendly community and the words Thank you just don't seem enough.<br />
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These past few months have been a crazy whirl wind around here.<br />
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January came hurtling towards us at great speed with a couple of birthdays to celebrate. The biggest being that the baby of our family turned 18.<br />
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How does one even begin to comprehend the reality of their youngest child turning eighteen ? I cried rivers of tears leading up to this day. Its true when they say that the days are long but the years are short. I am still trying to wrap my head around how quickly we got to this point already. All four of my sons grown up and needing me less and less. This statement may not be completely true, I know that to some point we all still need our parents no matter how grown up we are, it just feels this way for me right now I guess.<br />
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Not only did January mean that my baby boy was now indeed a man, it also bought with it the news that he had been accepted into University, and not any University but one that would take him to Brisbane. It was time for this kid of mine to begin his life's journey....<br />
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I am not going to lie. My head and my heart were a jumble of emotions. So proud that he had got into the University and course of his choice, but heartbroken that it was to take him so far away from home. Today as I hit publish on this post he is attending his very first day of University, the start of working his way through three years of study that will ultimately see him become an Advertising Photographer.<br />
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January was also the month that we picked up our new car.<br />
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February was needed to try and relax a bit before my husband returned to work after almost four months off since our accident. That has also been a huge adjustment, but as each day passes and we start to get back to normal life, we realise more and more how blessed we are to still be here.<br />
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<i>A QUICK UPDATE</i></div>
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We still have many scans and appointments to attend for our son </div>
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but thankfully he is beginning to heal and Doctors are</div>
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very pleased with his progress so far.</div>
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As parents, this has been one of the hardest times of our lives.</div>
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But we are so blessed with how his healing has gone. He is a strong young man</div>
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and if he can get through what he has over the past few months</div>
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we know that he can overcome anything that life throws at him.</div>
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I am recovering more each day physically, </div>
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its been a long hard road, but with each passing day</div>
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I getting stronger.</div>
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Emotionally it is going to be a long precess</div>
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but I am determined to overcome this awful accident no matter what it takes.</div>
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My husband is doing well.</div>
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He may not have had as much physical things to overcome</div>
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but emotionally he was struck down too which is to be expected.</div>
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He has been such a rock for me </div>
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and without him I wouldn't be where I am today.<br />
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Linking up with Denyse for <a href="http://www.denysewhelan.com.au/">#LIFETHISWEEK</a></div>
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-17754266142733519672018-01-02T17:18:00.000+10:002018-01-02T17:20:23.804+10:00An End OF An Era <div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><i>Pause Rewind Stop</i></b></div>
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It’s only the second day of this brand new year and I’m already taking a step back in time. Back to November when unfortunate circumstances made me miss one of the most important days of my youngest sons life.<br />
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On November 17th 2017 my baby boy graduated grade twelve, the last of our boys to do so.<br />
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I should have been there, I should have been standing with the other parents sharing this momentous occasion. My son deserved my presence, he should have been able to see me in the crowd knowing that I was supporting him and sending him all my love. He deserved to be able to look in my eyes and see just how proud I am of him. We should have been able to share this time in his life together, but some random man on a country road took this away from us. He stole this precious moment, one we can never get back.<br />
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Anyway<br />
In the weeks leading up to his graduation, I would often stop to take a moment and think back over the years and how fast this day had approached. Sometimes it left me shaking from the sheer power of what this day would mean.....<br />
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There are no more school days for our family. There would be no more morning rush doing the school run in my pj’s, no more lunch boxes to pack and no more mid morning calls asking me to bring them forgotten homework.<br />
This was the day that my job as a school mum came to an end. My baby Ben is all grown up now, he has left school behind him and is about to enter the next stage of his life while I will be left behind watching from the sidelines praying that he will still call me and say....<br />
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“ I need you mum”<br />
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Ben,<br />
You bring so much joy to our family. From the second you were born you completed us.<br />
Your smile brightens every room, your laughter contagious.<br />
I am ever so proud of the young man you have become, the future is yours, go out and make your mark on the world.<br />
I am so very sorry that I missed your graduation, it’s something that I will regret for the rest of my days. Please know that not once on that day did you leave my thoughts or my heart. You mean the absolute world to me, you make everyday worth living.<br />
As you head off to university next month, know that no matter how far apart we are you can always count on me to be there for you. I’m just a phone call away.<br />
I will always love you my possum. Good luck on your next adventure.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-8077523364636864422018-01-01T16:58:00.003+10:002018-01-01T16:58:52.320+10:00Farewell 2017 Hello 2018 <br />
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Are you like me and happy to start fresh with a brand new year ? <br />
Are you ready to bid a fond farewell to 2017, and make 2018 your best year yet ?<br />
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ME TOO !<br />
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Last year started off pretty well with not much to complain about. Generally 2017 continued to be a pretty awesome year. As a family we were living well, loving fiercely and pretty happy with how our year was progressing. And for the most part our family was doing A OKAY.<br />
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That was until October when our lives took a disastrous turn. A trauma that rocked us to our very core .....<br />
(But more about that at a later date when I feel ready to share)<br />
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This year I’m not making any “resolutions”, I’m just going to follow the path that life decides to lead me. Hopefully it takes me along a path of happiness, wellness and adventure, but who really knows what lies ahead ? These past few months have shown me that nobody ever knows where life will lead them, that in the blink of eye everything can change, and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it.<br />
So with that in mind I’m going to make sure that I enjoy the little things that life has to offer, I’m going to take that walk and make time in my day to visit my favourite beach. To spend more quality time with my family, but also take the time to enjoy solitude, to centre my being and find an inner peace that will hopefully stop me getting so frazzled over the little things. Because after all there is nothing at all wrong with improving ourselves and the way we live this life we are gifted.<br />
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Are you making any New Year resolutions ?<br />
Or are you just going to go with the flow this year ?<br />
Whatever you have decided to do, I hope that 2018 is kind to you and yours, and brings nothing but love and happiness your way.<br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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Linking up this first post of 2018 with <a href="http://www.denysewhelan.com.au/">Denyse</a> for #LifeThisWeek<br />
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-90295122386271742392017-10-09T09:10:00.000+10:002017-10-09T09:10:17.478+10:00FIVE PLANTS THAT HELP TO REPEL MOZZIES<br />
Summer is just around the corner bringing with it long lazy days by the pool, backyard BBQ's with family and friends and the return of the dreaded mozzie who on there own are enough to turn summer fun into summer misery.<br />
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If your anything like me, you attract the mozzie with a vengeance. They attack you in swarms sucking the life out of you, leaving your skin with huge itchy welts.<br />
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Not much fun huh !<br />
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It doesn't seem to matter how often I spray repellent, they always seem to find a way to bite me.<br />
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So this year I have done some research on others ways that I can help to give the mozzies the boot, and it seems that there are some plants out there that can help repel the beast.<br />
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<b><i>Lavender </i></b><br />
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Lavender is a plant that grows well indoors and out which has a double advantage when it comes to mosquitoes. Lavender help repel the pest as they do not like the scent that the plant gives off. So planting some in the garden or keeping a pot of lavender indoors will help to keep them at bay.<br />
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<b><i>Basil</i></b><br />
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The smell of basil is loathed by mosquitoes. Rub the fresh leaves onto your skin for a natural repellent that will deter the most pesky mozzie.<br />
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<b><i>Marigolds</i></b><br />
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Besides being edible and adding a gorgeous splash of colour to your garden beds, marigolds are useful for keeping mozzies away from humans and aphids away from your plants and vegetable gardens. A handy little plant indeed.<br />
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<b><i>Citronella</i></b><br />
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The original bug repellent that is a common ingredient in almost every store bought repellent out there. Add one of these attractive plants to your pool or BBQ area this summer.<br />
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<b><i>Peppermint</i></b><br />
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Peppermint will fill your garden with a gorgeous scent as well as repelling the warm weather pest. A natural insecticide, it kills as well as repels.<br />
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Remember these plants are just some species that help to repel mosquitoes, and wont do the job all on their own. They are just a preventive and other measures need to be taken as well.<br />
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Make sure that all containers around your home are empty of water, and there are no puddles of water that will attract mozzies, and always keep a repellent spray handy to keep those nasty little critters away so that you can enjoy your summer like you deserve.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-66707882016536098892017-10-03T07:15:00.000+10:002017-10-03T07:15:18.178+10:00AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR PRIME MINISTER - Malcolm Turnbull <br />
I wasn’t going to weigh in on the marriage equality debate, but I’ve changed my mind. And as a woman that is my prerogative.<br />
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You see Mr Turnbull, I honestly don’t understand why you are against marriage of same sex couples.<br />
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Do you see it as some kind of threat ?<br />
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I can’t see the point of wasting precious time and funds by asking Australians to vote on something that should be a no brainer. It doesn't need to be hard.<br />
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Tell me something Prime Minister. Are you scared ?<br />
Do you think that by making same sex marriage legal, you will look weak ? That you will look like a follower ? Like someone who is under pressure to conform to society ?<br />
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Well let me tell you Mr Turnbull you are weak, and I believe that you are scared. Of what I am uncertain, but to many your weakness and lack of courage is obvious.<br />
Lend me an ear Prime Minister, as I have something to say to you, something that you ought to know.<br />
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I am the proud Australian mother of an openly gay son. A son who deserves respect, a grown man who deserves the right to make his own choices, an Australian citizen who deserves to love and marry the person he chooses just like you and me, because he is just like you and me. <b>Human </b>and nobody has the right to deny a human being happiness.<br />
You say fairness and equality are at the heart of Australian society so tell me, why are you not playing fair ?<br />
As a parent yourself I am sure that you want your children to live long and happy lives, so why do you want to deny my son the same right ?<br />
I have no doubt that you would want your children to feel loved and complete, so why do you want my son to live through life without the contentment that marrying your soul mate gives ?<br />
I am also sure that you would stand up for your child if push came to shove, that you would stand up and support your child in a fierce manner that only a parent can. And you know what Malcolm Turnbull, that is exactly what I am doing. I am standing up for my son who should have the same rights as his brothers, I am supporting my son publicly and I am being fierce Mr Turnball as only a mother knows how.<br />
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What right do you have Prime Minister ?<br />
Can you answer that question honestly ?<br />
Were you not voted in to lead this country and its people, not degrade some of them of their human right ?<br />
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Marriage is the commitment of two people who love each other, and no one that walks this earth should be made to feel ashamed of who they are, who they love or who fulfils them.<br />
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Mr Prime Minister, as a mother to four sons I must ask you.<br />
How would you honestly feel if one of your children was to be treated differently than another ?<br />
Let me answer it for you.....<br />
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It would break your heart !<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck </i></span><br />
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-86747751576158815742017-10-02T12:22:00.003+10:002017-10-02T12:22:38.246+10:00AUGUST / SEPTEMBER Health and Fitness Update<br />
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Here we are almost ten months into the year and although progress has been made on this health journey of mine, I haven't nearly progressed as much as I would have liked by now.<br />
Its true that I have lost weight not gained, but I really thought that my goal would have reached half way by now.<br />
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I wont give up though and that is what counts right ?<br />
Isn't loosing weight slowly better in the long run ?<br />
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The challenge for August was to go meatless....<br />
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Yeah um I think I maybe managed this once or twice but this is just not an easy thing for me to achieve. With a house full of men to cook for and satisfy, I found myself still serving up a portion of meat onto my plate as well. My meal serves have halved so that is certainly a good thing, but technically l “failed" this challenge. I am not beating myself up about it. I just don't think that I am cut out to go full on vegetarian.<br />
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Septembers challenge was to find a workout buddy....<br />
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My workout buddy is usually music on my phone. I plug myself in and off I go. Other times I walk with my mum. As she was away for most of the month my workout was done alone or dare I say it not at all.<br />
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<strike>Very naughty I know</strike><br />
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For October I am pledging to outdo myself and exercise as many days of the week as possible, even if it is just a walk.<br />
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The challenge for the month is to "savor your meals" and with the hot weather arriving, I am planning on serving up delicious salads that I know will demand to be savored.<br />
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Its time to stop putting things off and ramp it up a notch. I need to stop procrastinating and DO all of the things RIGHT NOW !<br />
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-85643682832068955852017-10-01T12:06:00.002+10:002017-10-01T12:06:42.642+10:00TAKING STOCK - September 2017<br />
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Are you on the same roller coaster as me ? The one that seems to be hurtling towards the end of the year faster than you ever thought possible ? It's like I blinked and September vanished into thin air. It certainly is a reminder for us all to stop and take in the little things that surrounds us.<br />
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<a href="http://www.meetmeatmikes.com/">Pip </a> really was onto a good thing when she started <i style="color: purple;">Taking Stock </i>each month to keep a diary of sorts for everything that she wanted to remember. So many of us have joined in with her, and I love taking a moment to stop and think of what went on in my life at the end of each month. So without any more rambling, here is my September.<br />
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<b>Making </b>time to do some craft again. Its been a long time between projects and it feels good to be making stuff again.<br />
<b>Cooking </b>large amounts of fried rice. I cant seem to feed my family enough of it.<br />
<b>Drinking </b>Kombucha. Where on earth has this been all my life ? I know that I am slow to the party, but I cant get enough of this delicious beverage.<br />
<b>Reading </b><i>The Mummy Bloggers </i>by Holly Wainwright. I had really high expectations for this book, but was kind of disappointed in it. I also read <i>Spin Cycle </i>by Ilsa Evans and really enjoyed this one. Seems it was the month of Aussie authors for me.<br />
<b>Wanting </b>time to slow down. How is October already ?<br />
<b>Looking </b>for new recipes that will cut down time in the kitchen over summer. I will be trying many new salad recipes on my family and was wondering if you have any summer meals that you would like to share with me ?<br />
<b>Wishing </b>I could pack up and take my family on a holiday. One day it will happen. One day.....<br />
<b>Enjoying </b>life right now. Time spent with my family and just generally taking the time to stop and smell the roses. I've finally got it into my thick head that there is no point stressing over the small things.<br />
<b>Waiting </b>for rain. It is so dry here that our grass is brown and crunchy and water restrictions are tight. We are hoping that we actually get a long over due wet season this summer. Without the cyclones of course.<br />
<b>Liking </b>my new fan in our bedroom.<br />
<b>Wondering </b>how long its going to be before our pool is invaded by our sons friends and the house and yard is full of wet towels.<br />
<b>Loving </b>the colour green.<br />
<b>Listening </b>to Pinks new songs and Busby Marou.<br />
<b>Buying </b>new dresses to get me through the hot summer months that are on their way.<br />
<b>Watching </b>trash TV as always lol<br />
<b>Hoping </b>that the last few months of the year pass a little slower.<br />
<b>Needing </b>more time with my family.<br />
<b>Questioning </b>why everything in life has to cost so much money.<br />
<b>Smelling </b>all the pretty flowers that are in bloom. I really love spring time.<br />
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<b>Wearing </b>cool dresses, and pyjamas on the school run <strike>still </strike><br />
<b>Noticing </b>that my family don't NOTICE all the work I do around the home for them.<br />
<b>Knowing </b>that it is only thirteen days until Pinks new album is released and I can not wait :)<br />
<b>Thinking </b>about the job interview I have on Tuesday and freaking out.<br />
<b>Admiring </b>people who know exactly who they are and are completely at ease with themselves.<br />
<b>Getting </b>ready to start painting the house.<br />
<b>Opening </b>birthday presents. I really was a lucky lady this year.<br />
<b>Closing </b>closing the door on forty two and welcoming in the year of being forty three.<br />
<b>Feeling </b>tired.<br />
<b>Dreaming </b>of going on a cruise some time in the future.<br />
<b>Hearing </b>the birds early in the morning. Such a lovely way to wake up.<br />
<b>Celebrating </b>my birthday and the North QLD Cowboys making the NRL grand final. Come on boys you can do it .....<br />
<b>Pretending </b>that my boys are still little and we still have all the time in the world.<br />
<b>Embracing </b>this fabulous family that my husband and I have created together and knowing that without them my life would be totally incomplete.<br />
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How was your September ?<br />
Did you celebrate any birthdays or anniversaries ?<br />
Are just as baffled as me as to where this year has gone ?<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-60010262907958126032017-09-26T15:29:00.000+10:002017-09-26T15:29:27.659+10:00A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE IN PICTURES <br />
With the baby of our family in his final weeks of school, I have found myself drifting off revisiting times gone by. Big occasions in life will do that to you, make your mind wander and replay significant moments, cherished memories that make your heart and your family whole.<br />
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Its been twenty four years since I became a mum. Twenty four years of happiness, sadness, laughter and many mistakes made let me tell you. But you know what ? that's okay. Because without all the ups and downs we wouldn't be the family that we are today....<br />
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It started out here. High school sweet hearts.</td></tr>
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Then we became a family...</div>
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Two years later, we were blessed with our second son. Making us a family of four...</div>
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Another two years passed and what do you know, another boy blue to join our crew...</div>
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On the day that son number three turned one, we found out some news </div>
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that was rather unexpected, but gave us so much happiness.</div>
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We were going to be blessed with another bundle of joy...</div>
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Making us a family of six and our family was complete.</div>
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Our dynamic may be about to change and change is never easy. But with all these beautiful memories tucked under our belt, I know that we will be okay, and that no matter where life takes us we still have many years of memories left to make.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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Linking up for this weeks <i>IBOT</i> with <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">www.kyliepurtell.com</a>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-65947681320412020502017-09-05T13:16:00.002+10:002017-09-05T13:16:09.697+10:00DIY QUICK & EASY WALL ART - TWO WAYS !<br />
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With Spring in the air, it seems as though I have my craft and diy mojo back.<br />
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FINALLY !<br />
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I have no idea where it went, maybe it was just lack of inspiration, motivation or just plain lack of time. Who knows, but lately my mind has been buzzing with ideas for my home and that makes this crafty mamma very happy.<br />
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If your like me at the moment, you may have limited cash flow. Things are a little tight right now, which doesn't leave much for me to frivolously throw it around on unnecessary items.<br />
So with a little imagination, I have come up with two ways to decorate the walls of my lounge room that are easy to achieve and are easy on the pocket.<br />
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Animal prints seem to be the go at the moment. There are so many beautiful artists out there creating such fabulous pieces of art work it is rather hard not to be inspired. My take on these is an easy way for you to get in on the animal themed wall art, without spending a fortune. </div>
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<b><i>ANIMAL WALL ART - OPTION ONE </i></b></div>
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I found these gorgeous blank cards at<span style="color: orange;"> </span><span style="color: purple; font-style: italic;">Thrifties </span>when I was buying a birthday card for a friend. They took my eye with how amazing each of them were and I just had to have them, and at $2 a card they were cheap enough not to break the bank. With the cards in hand I next headed to every woman's favourite store at the moment <span style="color: purple; font-style: italic;">KMART </span>with the hope of finding frames that would fit the cards perfectly. </div>
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And I had a win ... These frames were a bargain at $4 each meaning that in total my crafty diy project cost me $18 in total. Nothing to complain about there. </div>
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The outcome ... is cheap, easy but a gorgeous way to get some art work on my bare walls.</div>
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<b><i>WALL ART - OPTION TWO</i></b></div>
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Keeping in tune with the animal theme, I decided to make over this stag clock that I had hidden away. Purchased quite a long way back from <i style="color: purple;">KMART </i>I never got around to hanging it. </div>
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Looking at it recently I decided that I no longer wanted to use it as a clock and my mind started ticking.</div>
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I began by pulling the clock mechanism out, then using some gorgeous vinyl contact that I purchased from <i style="color: purple;">Bunnings </i> proceeded to cover the stag.<br />
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The outcome is an unusual piece of art that was quick, cheap at $17 in total and very easy to achieve. It also makes me very happy to look at each time I enter my lounge room.<br />
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I had been after some affordable art for my lounge room, and these ideas were just perfect for what I was looking for. They look great, and were very achievable. Now I am on a roll and I cant wait to add to them.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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Sharing these diy tips over at <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">www.kyliepurtell.com</a> fot this weeks IBOT<br />
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-62182258045905058922017-08-31T09:39:00.000+10:002017-08-31T09:39:35.704+10:00TAKING STOCK - August 2017<br />
Hello there.<br />
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So its time for us to bid a fond farewell to August. This year is just flying by isn't it. It feels as though we just welcomed the cooler weather of winter and poof ! Here we are ready to walk on into spring. I have enjoyed this winter immensely. The weather has been absolutely perfect here in north Queensland, so much so that I wish we could have days like these all year round.<br />
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Anyway enough chatter about the weather, its time to <i>Take Stock</i> just like <a href="http://www.meetmeatmikes.com/">Pip</a> did.</div>
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<b>Making </b>progress in our back yard before the heat comes. We have been planting new native plants to attract more birds to our yard, re-planting the veggie patch and making time to clean out our enormous shed. It feels good to be almost on top of it all.</div>
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<b>Cooking </b>some delicious new dishes courtesy of <a href="http://www.theannoyedthyroid.com/">The Annoyed Thyroid</a> and <a href="http://www.baby-mac.com/">BabyMac</a></div>
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<b>Drinking </b>coffee, lots of coffee. I have needed more than a kick start in the morning lately.</div>
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<b>Reading </b>some fantastic books lately. <i>Her Perfect Life </i>by Sam Hepburn. <i>Behind Closed Doors </i>by B. A. Paris. I am really into the crime and thriller books at the moment, tho I did just start <i>The Mummy Bloggers </i>by Holly Wainwright. I let you know what I think about this one when I've finished it.</div>
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<b>Wanting </b>to paint this darn house already but finances just are not allowing it at the moment leaving me very frustrated.</div>
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<b>Looking </b>for books on the 5:2 diet. I have heard great things about it and I am wanting to read up on it to see if it is right for me.</div>
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<b>Deciding </b>on Christmas presents for my boys. Are really at that point of the year already ?</div>
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<b>Wishing </b>winter would last forever.</div>
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<b>Enjoying </b>pottering in the garden and baking biscuits. Guess I'm showing my age now lol.</div>
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<b>Waiting </b>for our dogs to out grow they annoying puppy stage of digging and barking. Grrrr.</div>
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<b>Liking </b>all the spring flowers that are staring to bloom. I really love this time of year. It has to be my favourite.</div>
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<b>Wondering </b>how hot it is really going to get here in Mackay this summer when we are already hitting 27 degrees here in August.</div>
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<b>Loving </b>The Block 2017. I stopped watching the last few seasons. The contestants did nothing for me and it seem to move too far away from the original. This season however has me glued. Much better guys, stick to the winning formula.</div>
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<b>Listening </b>to <i>Busby Marou </i>and of course<i> Pinks</i> new song <i>What About Us</i> I just love it. What about her speech at the VMA's what a role model and not just for her daughter but for women all around the world.</div>
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<b>Considering </b>cutting my hair again. I know, I know short, long, short. I should just make my mind up hey lol.</div>
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<b>Buying </b>plants, presents, a pom pom maker, food and more food.</div>
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<b>Watching <i> </i></b><i>Suits. </i>Why on earth has it taken me so long to watch it ? I mean come on ..... <b><i>HARVEY </i></b>!</div>
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<b>Hoping </b>that the rest of the year goes by a little slower.</div>
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<b>Cringing </b>at the state of my wardrobe. I really need to take some time and clean it out.</div>
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<b>Needing </b>to wash my car. Seems nobody else will do it !</div>
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<b>Questioning </b>our government. There is no need to spend all this money on a plebiscite for same sex marriage. Just pass the damn thing and put the money to better use. I don't know how this Country is running with our current government, I really don't.</div>
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<b>Wearing </b>shorts that are way too big for me. I didn't realise how much weight I had lost since last summer. I have a long way to go but the idea of buying some new summer stuff has me slightly excited.<br />
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<b>Noticing </b>just how close my boys really are lately. It warms my heart to see them getting along, spending time together laughing. Makes me think that I have done something right.</div>
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<b>Knowing </b>time is getting closer by the minute until my baby graduates high school. </div>
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<b>Thinking </b>what maybe next on my horizon once I am no longer a school mum and all that comes along with that.</div>
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<b>Admiring </b>women who know who they are, are successful and have purpose. </div>
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<b>Opening </b>myself up to new possibilities in life and hoping something good comes along that I can sink my teeth into.</div>
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<b>Closing </b>cupboard doors, wardrobe doors and any darn door behind my husband. Hey mate.... I am not your maid nor your butler. It takes no more strength to close them or open them !</div>
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<b>Feeling </b>a bit lonely lately. </div>
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<b>Dreaming </b>of a holiday. Its been two years since our last one and we haven't even made it away even for a weekend since.</div>
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<b>Hearing </b>birds singing every morning. Its such a happy way to wake up.</div>
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Well there is my August. Did you have a memorable one ? Were you lucky enough to get away ? Did you cook something new and delicious ?</div>
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I love hearing about what everyone has been up to. Taking Stock really is a good way to record memories of months, even years gone by. <a href="http://www.meetmeatmikes.com/">Pip</a> really was onto something when she started this up.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-62323187663021857902017-08-29T09:03:00.002+10:002017-08-29T09:03:33.285+10:00TODAY, TOMORROW & THURSDAY<br />
I woke early this morning, it was still dark outside but the distant stirring of birds meant the day was about to begin. It is a big day, one that has been thirteen years in the making, there have been tears, there have been fights and there has been stress, so much stress. But here we are still standing, still pushing through.<br />
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A lot is riding on <i style="font-weight: bold;">today, tomorrow and Thursday </i>My baby boys future lays dependent on these three isolated days of his schooling life. All thirteen years of learning have reached their summit as he takes the most important exams of his life so far. The QCS {Queensland Core Skills}<br />
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I have mixed feelings about <i style="font-weight: bold;">today, tomorrow and Thursday</i>, on one hand its exciting to know that as a family we have reached this milestone together. That as parents we can pat ourselves on the back and be proud that all of our four sons have made it through grade twelve and have been able to do so with their heads held high. On the other hand <i style="font-weight: bold;">today, tomorrow and Thursday </i>brings us to an end of an era. No longer will we be the parents of school students. No longer the parents of kids who are struggling to make sure that all expectations are being met whether it be making sure school attendance is high, that homework is completed and that study is being done. Today, my job as a school mum hits its last legs, I am on the home run now, and to be honest I have cried tears of joy, tears of sadness and also tears of unease as I wonder if there is any more that I could have done to prepare my baby boy for these final schooling moments.<br />
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So today my darling boy,<br />
Try not to put too much pressure on yourself. You can be proud of what you have achieved so far and all you can do now is march on into these exams and do your absolute best. I know that you have done all there is to prepare yourself for this moment and as your mum I couldn't be prouder.<br />
I hope that I have done enough for you, that I have been supportive and encouraging, and that I have not done you any injustice. That over the years you have been able to count on me being their for you no matter what.<br />
You are my last baby, my baby Ben, my possum. You have grown into an incredible young man and I cant wait to see what your future brings. Your dreams are big as are mine for you, and soon they will be within your reach. You can do it Ben, you can make your dreams reality. I have all faith in your ability to make it in this big wide world.<br />
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Almost eighteen years ago you came into this world completing our family. We love you unconditionally, every single one of us. So take this and our support with you into these exams <i style="font-weight: bold;">today, tomorrow and Thursday </i>and smash it just like I know you will.<br />
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Love mum.<br />
xxxx<br />
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Linking up for this weeks IBOT with Kylie over at <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">www.kyliepurtell.com</a>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-1145588987095559582017-08-22T08:08:00.000+10:002017-08-22T08:08:44.437+10:00SPOTLIGHT ON - Jess Crawford ARTIST <br />
Art is one of the great pleasures in life. It is something I love to surround myself with, and I believe that life would be very sad and boring without it.<br />
Instagram has been a fabulous window for me to find some fabulous Australian artists, artists that I may never have had the pleasure of finding other wise.<br />
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One of those beautiful artists that I found and followed was <a href="http://www.jesscrawfordart.com/">Jess Crawford</a> An original mixed media artist, Jess's beautiful artwork demands attention. Stunning and exciting, it drew me in, in all its colour and glory.<br />
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<b><i>SPOTLIGHT</i></b><br />
<i><span style="color: purple;">JESS CRAWFORD</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hIRl_otFKU/WZpN5dqCCkI/AAAAAAAAJCo/5iEUzUp_27sq2C6lNCNJxYjklCzeNci-gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="452" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5hIRl_otFKU/WZpN5dqCCkI/AAAAAAAAJCo/5iEUzUp_27sq2C6lNCNJxYjklCzeNci-gCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6091.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Jess lives in a small country town in South Australia with her </div>
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husband and two gorgeous sons.</div>
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Her art journey in mixed media began in 2013</div>
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when she was given the "BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENT EVER"</div>
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year long painting tutorials.</div>
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The training she had was not just tutorials but the birth </div>
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of Jess's own authentic expression </div>
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into the world of art.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-isED7c4uijU/WZpN8isrDNI/AAAAAAAAJC4/dfsAevOvBqMAzxd1j85Y8TrEXPaIb38nQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-isED7c4uijU/WZpN8isrDNI/AAAAAAAAJC4/dfsAevOvBqMAzxd1j85Y8TrEXPaIb38nQCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6086.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">There are many fabulous ways that you can make one of Jess's pieces your own. Her </span><a href="http://www.jesscrawfordart.com/" style="text-align: left;">website</a><span style="text-align: left;"> has a link to her store where you can purchase beautiful works to hang in your home, buy notepads, cards, wrapping paper and even jewellery showcasing Jess's original artworks. You can also commission Jess to create a custom order just for you. </span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TFg_JqzfFI/WZpT2UsG-uI/AAAAAAAAJDc/xaAj0yRaq3IovTdmAtVjwKZrm0jOVaapACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TFg_JqzfFI/WZpT2UsG-uI/AAAAAAAAJDc/xaAj0yRaq3IovTdmAtVjwKZrm0jOVaapACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6087.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SFC1U0_tKrM/WZpT3KUFSrI/AAAAAAAAJDk/vvTc6UhIEhIhluMpvU2y9TggW1qnJMRnACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SFC1U0_tKrM/WZpT3KUFSrI/AAAAAAAAJDk/vvTc6UhIEhIhluMpvU2y9TggW1qnJMRnACLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6088.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">And if you have ever needed something extra pretty in your life each month, subscribe to Jess's <i style="color: purple;">BRIGHTENS THE WAY </i>subscription box.</span><br />
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<b>In each box you will receive </b></div>
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* an A 5 size post card to put on your wall</div>
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* 4x6 inch greeting card</div>
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* an A 5 size notepad to write all your dreams that brighten your way every day</div>
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<span style="color: purple;">and </span></div>
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* a surprise to add to your stationery collection {like a cool pen or funky gift tag}</div>
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Jess has also just announced that she is releasing a beautiful calendar for 2018 showcasing one of her art works for every month of the year. Pop on over to her <a href="http://www.jesscrawfordart.com/">website</a> to pre order your calendar or subscription box now. You will not be disappointed.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OUDrHZXXKYo/WZpPaV3scvI/AAAAAAAAJDI/ksVUWboGpMEtWG0ejqVVdjsTLu8KDNxswCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="639" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OUDrHZXXKYo/WZpPaV3scvI/AAAAAAAAJDI/ksVUWboGpMEtWG0ejqVVdjsTLu8KDNxswCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6089.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is how you can follow or contact Jess so you can see for yourself just how talented she is.</div>
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Sharing this spotlight on the fabulous Jess with <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">Kylie</a> today on IBOT.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-49633521424846398712017-08-15T13:32:00.000+10:002017-08-15T13:32:23.562+10:00MINI CINNAMON "DONUT" MUFFINS<br />
Are you a sucker for donuts ?<br />
Are you a fan of muffins ?<br />
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Then check these babies out....<br />
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If you bake one thing this week make it these little bites of heaven. They are AMAZING ! and as per usual I found the recipe while scrolling through the magical world of Pinterest, and I just had to make them, taste them and now share them with you.<br />
The original recipe is from the fabulous blog <a href="http://www.chocolatechocolateandmore.com/">Chocolate Chocolate and More</a> There are so many delicious recipes on this blog so go check it out.<br />
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<b>Mini Cinnamon "Donut" Muffins </b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wveP8U2lHm8/WZJqiOpy-6I/AAAAAAAAJB0/VwZpHjbgzAYDfWc0XsCZllMb3yHdnIx5QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wveP8U2lHm8/WZJqiOpy-6I/AAAAAAAAJB0/VwZpHjbgzAYDfWc0XsCZllMb3yHdnIx5QCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_6055.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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2 cups plain flour</div>
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1 1/2 cups sugar</div>
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2 teaspoons baking powder</div>
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1/2 teaspoon salt</div>
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</div>
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1 1/4 cups milk</div>
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1 egg</div>
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2 tablespoons butter, melted</div>
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1 teaspoon vanilla essence</div>
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<b>Topping</b></div>
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6 tablespoons melted butter </div>
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3/4 cup sugar</div>
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</div>
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Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon into a large mixing bowl and stir through.</div>
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In a separate bowl, whisk gently together the milk, eggs, melted butter and vanilla.</div>
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently through until just combined making sure there are no large lumps left in the mixture (small lumps are fine)</div>
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Fill greased mini muffin tin 2/3 full and for 15 minutes in a moderate oven.</div>
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Remove and allow to cool.</div>
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For the topping - melt the butter and in another bowl mix together the sugar and cinnamon.</div>
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Dip the top of each muffin into the butter, than coat with the sugar mix.</div>
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Keep refrigerated.</div>
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Enjoy.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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Sharing these little bites of heaven over at <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">Kylie Purtels for IBOT </a></div>
Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-14709567209134724532017-08-09T10:05:00.000+10:002017-08-09T10:05:46.285+10:00MINI CHEESY MUFFINS<br />
I am constantly on a mission to find ways to keep the fridge full of tasty snacks for my hungry crew of boys. I always have fruit on hand, but lets face it, that is not always enough to keep a growing boys growling stomach satisfied. <i>Believe me !</i> So I am always looking for cheap, easy and moderately healthy snacks to fill their bellies.<br />
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These mini cheesy muffins are a huge hit with my tribe and so easy to make. Great for lunch boxes ( <i>if they last that long </i>) or just to snack on they are made with ingredients that most of us already have at our disposal.<br />
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<b>MINI CHEESY MUFFINS</b><br />
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2 cups of self raising flour<br />
2 cups of grated cheese<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 cups of water<br />
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Preheat oven to 180 degrees. </div>
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Prepare mini muffin tin by sparingly spraying with olive oil.</div>
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In a bowl and the flour, cheese and mix well.</div>
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In a suitable jug, beat the eggs and add the water, stirring well to combine.</div>
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Pour the egg mixture into the bowl of cheese and flour, and mix well with a metal spoon.</div>
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Spoon mixture into the muffin tin and bake for 10 minutes or until golden.</div>
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So easy and so yummy. Give these a whirl and I will guarantee they will be a hit.</div>
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Enjoy</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-26881086884178355782017-08-08T08:18:00.000+10:002017-08-23T08:07:07.090+10:00EDUCATION.COM - A World of Fun Learning <br />
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A few weeks a go I shared with you a post from education.com. <i>You can find that post <a href="http://craftypjmum.blogspot.com.au/2017/06/educationcom-making-learning-fun-and.html">HERE</a> </i>They are committed to helping your child fulfill their learning potential no matter what stage of learning they are at. Concentrating on educating children from prep to grade five, education.com provide your children with in-depth understanding of reading, spelling and mathematics, just to name a few.<br />
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There is no such thing as "one size fits all" when it comes to education. Each child has unique challenges and goals and education.com offers many different resources to help meet the educational needs of your child.<br />
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Together with <a href="http://education.com/">education.com</a> I am happy to share with you one of the worksheets on offer, to show you and your child that learning doesn't have to be a struggle, that it can indeed be a fun way to raise kids' confidence in learning.<br />
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<b>Dive into an under sea adventure with this fun maze</b></div>
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<b>from Education.com !</b></div>
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Find more great <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.education.com/resources/kindergarten/&source=gmail&ust=1503473400496000&usg=AFQjCNESwuFbrOXkyaYVY-HeNY4l--kluQ" href="https://www.education.com/resources/kindergarten/" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">resources for kids here</a><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHcyL5DRQmQ/WZvg2Wh2rdI/AAAAAAAAJD0/eO3Hsa_rQ0YcwdyuGQ1ZvbMA_ZLtI-5FgCLcBGAs/s1600/quiz%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="269" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHcyL5DRQmQ/WZvg2Wh2rdI/AAAAAAAAJD0/eO3Hsa_rQ0YcwdyuGQ1ZvbMA_ZLtI-5FgCLcBGAs/s640/quiz%2B1.png" width="486" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Answer at the end of post </td></tr>
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How fun was that ? Education.com has more of these activities on their web site along with many more fun and exciting ways to learn. Head over and sign your child up today and show them that learning doesn't have to be a chore.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldLpG0P76GA/WZvhOWLvFCI/AAAAAAAAJD4/INCX2ecBXNktB5UEBuBpiFe8WyvGJ4GEACLcBGAs/s1600/under%2Bthe%2Bsea%2Bsolution.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="335" data-original-width="254" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldLpG0P76GA/WZvhOWLvFCI/AAAAAAAAJD4/INCX2ecBXNktB5UEBuBpiFe8WyvGJ4GEACLcBGAs/s640/under%2Bthe%2Bsea%2Bsolution.png" width="484" /></a></div>
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You can sign up </div>
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<a href="http://education.com/">HERE</a> and put your child on the right path to learning </div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-4972009889419619212017-08-07T08:45:00.000+10:002017-08-07T08:45:58.656+10:00JULY - Health and Fitness Update<div>
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July July July where do I begin. </div>
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I failed my self challenge for about half of the month. Then I had an epiphany of sorts, gave myself a good talking to and stopped dishing myself up so much food. Since then...</div>
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Success !</div>
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I've started drinking more water again and enjoying it.</div>
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Who knew !</div>
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Eight months in and still not a great physical change but inside I am starting to feel much better. I am sleeping better, I have more energy and even though you cant really tell as yet I have lost a few kilos. </div>
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This past week I literally woke up and told myself enough is enough. Its time to ramp up this challenge and make it worth its while and I started exercising. </div>
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And guess what...</div>
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My legs and arms feel as though they are about to fall off but I feel good. So good in fact that I look forward to my session each day. </div>
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For the month of August, my challenge is to go meatless. I know that I cant go full on vegetarian. (I love meat way to much for that) but I am willing to go there and give it a go for the sake of the challenge. I am going to have to do a bit of recipe hunting for this one, as I just know that my family of men are going to turn their noses up at any food that does not contain meat.</div>
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On that note, is there such a recipe that is full on vegetarian that will fill my families bellies ? Please help a sister out with this one if you can.</div>
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As for everything else, I will continue to drink plenty of water, eat smaller portions and exercise each and every day. The year maybe eight months in and nearing its end (crazy) but I think that slowly I am getting a hang of this better, healthier living. </div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-59635505846859146602017-08-02T09:35:00.000+10:002017-08-02T09:35:33.677+10:00EASY CHEERIO SLICE<br />
Looking for something tasty, easy and fairly healthy to serve your tribe for afternoon tea or as a lunch box filler ? Then this no bake slice is the perfect thing to satisfy the sweetest tooth without added sugar and takes only minutes to whip up.<br />
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This easy cheerio slice cereal bars are kid friendly, but also a tasty treat that even the grownups will enjoy with a cuppa.<br />
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<b>Easy Cheerio Slice</b></div>
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* 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter </div>
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* 1/2 cup honey</div>
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* 3 cups of cheerio wholegrain cereal </div>
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Line a slice tray with baking paper.</div>
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Add peanut butter and honey to a large saucepan and sit over medium heat. Heat and stir until mixture just starts to simmer.</div>
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Stir the cereal into the peanut butter mix until evenly coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared slice tray and place in the fridge to cool and set.</div>
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Once set, cut slice into bars and store in the fridge. </div>
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These have certainly gone down well in my family and is something that I will continue to make and keep in supply. </div>
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Give them a go with your family. I am sure they will enjoy them as much as mine.</div>
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Enjoy</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-88791946342224685852017-08-01T12:54:00.005+10:002017-08-01T12:54:57.601+10:00TAKING STOCK - July 2017<br />
So today is August 1st.<br />
We are now into the eighth month of 2017. Can anyone tell me how this has actually happened ?<br />
I mean wasn't it just last week we were ringing in the new year ? My mother once told me that the older you get the faster time goes.<br />
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Huh.<br />
Seems she was right.<br />
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Pip had a great idea when she started Taking Stock. A monthly post of memories if you will. The good, the bad and the down right ugly. Everything that adds up to make the month that was.<br />
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<b>Making</b> - Plans for new gardens in the back yard. Hoping that our dogs are now old enough to leave well enough alone. That is the trouble with pets sometimes.<br />
<b>Cooking </b>- Only six nights a week now that my eldest son has taken to cooking on one of his days off. Now if only I could convince the other members of my family to cook dinner once a week I would only have to cook on the weekends.<br />
<b>Drinking </b>- Water and red wine. Mmm Must give up the wine again.<br />
<b>Reading </b>- <i>THE PARTY </i>by Robyn Harding. I cant stress enough how fabulous this book was. It had me sucked in from the very first page. I have my fingers crossed that this will become a movie. Do yourself a favour and read this one.<br />
<b>Wanting </b>- A holiday <i>desperately. </i>We actually haven't been anywhere since our trip to Melbourne. That was two years ago.<br />
<b>Looking </b>- For work. Its a slow process with so many others also in the same boat.<br />
<b>Playing </b>- Candy crush. I know, I know pathetic.<br />
<b>Deciding - </b>On paint colours. It is a big decision.<br />
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<b>Wishing </b>- I had a spare twenty thousand dollars so that I could send my son of to uni next year without financial stress.<br />
<b>Enjoying </b>- These beautiful Winter days and cool nights. I am not looking forward to our long hot Summer. It is not that far away truth be told.<br />
<b>Waiting </b>- Always waiting for my boys in the car. Same car park different day *<i>sigh</i><br />
<b>Liking </b>- Being busy, getting stuck into things around the house that sometimes get neglected.<br />
<b>Wondering </b>- If the renovations on our house will ever be finished.<br />
<b>Loving </b>- All the new growth on my indoor plants. Seriously they are going nuts !<br />
<b>Considering </b>- Buying a new rug for under our dining room table, but don't know where I would start looking for a square one. Any ideas ? Anyone ?<br />
<b>Buying </b>- Shoes and outfits for going on interviews. I didn't realise how much my mum wardrobe had taken over my life.<br />
<b>Watching </b>- Housewives of New York City. This season is <b>THE BEST</b> !<br />
<b>Hoping </b>- That I will soon see results of the diet and exercise that I have been throwing myself into. Its time to bring this old chick back to life and wave goodbye to all the damage that I have done to myself.<br />
<b>Needing </b>- A few extra hours in the day. I am sure that I am not alone there.<br />
<b>Smelling - </b>The sweet scent of Spring in the air. I hope we can hang onto it a little longer this year before feeling the full force of the North Queensland Summer.<br />
<b>Wearing </b>- Shoes and not just thongs. My goal is <b>NOT</b> to have that thong tan line on my feet this year.<br />
<b>Following </b>- Some amazing new accounts on Instagram lately. Maybe I will share my favorites in another post someday soon.<br />
<b>Thinking - </b>About buying myself a pair of new ear rings. It has been way to long since I got something new and shiny for myself.<br />
<b>Admiring </b>- All the ladies out there that have not let mental stress get the better of them and let themselves go. I am so mad at myself right now. I just hope that I can undo all the damage.<br />
<b>Getting - </b>Nervous about my baby boy moving away next year. Time has just gone by way to quickly.<br />
<b>Opening </b>- My eyes to the fact that not everyone in this world is genuine and stand by what they say.<br />
<b>Giggling </b>- At Yummy Mummies...How is that even real ?<br />
<b>Feeling </b>- Happy and enjoying spending time with my husband in the garden. Its nice to see the progress we are making together no matter how slow going it is.<br />
<b>Snacking </b>- On apples and strawberries. I am trying <b>SO</b> hard to be good and stick to a strict diet.<br />
<b>Helping - </b>My parents out while they are away by looking after there home and my mums gardens. That is the one things my mum has always had no matter where they live, beautiful gardens.<br />
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So that was July around here in a nut shell. Busy but easy going. I still cant believe how fast this year is passing us by. Have you done anything exciting ? Been anywhere ? Read anything that you think I might like ? If you have, please share.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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Linking for IBOT with the lovely <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">KYLIE</a><br />
<br />Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-28394295065921940712017-07-04T09:26:00.002+10:002017-07-04T09:26:38.185+10:00 CHICKEN PARM MEATBALL SKILLET<br />
Its that time of year again where you look for and crave comfort food. Not only does the consuming of such foods warm the body and the soul, but they also warm up every nook and cranny of the coldest of homes as they bubble away on the stove.<br />
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Feeding a large family brings with it all sorts of problems. With everyone having an array of different tastes, it can be hard to please everyone, every night.<br />
One meal that does get the thumbs up and mouths watering when I dish it up is <a href="http://juliegoodwin.com/">Julie Goodwin's</a> recipe for Chicken Parma. Easy and delicious, this recipe puts the local pub Parma to shame. Try it for yourself, I dare you to disagree.<br />
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So while scrolling through Pinterest the other night I came across a meal that I just knew would be enjoyed by everyone at our dinner table, I just had to give it a whirl.<br />
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<b><i>CHICKEN PARM MEATBALL SKILLET</i></b></div>
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500 grams chicken mince</div>
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs</div>
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese </div>
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2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley</div>
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4 cloves chopped garlic</div>
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1 large egg</div>
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salt & pepper</div>
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3 tbsp olive oil</div>
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800 gram can crushed tomatoes</div>
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1 1/2 cups grated mozzarella cheese</div>
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<i>Extra Parmesan & parsley for garnishing</i></div>
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<i>Crusty bread & pasta to serve.</i></div>
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Preheat oven to 200 degrees Celsius. </div>
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Make Meatballs - In a large bowl, combine chicken mince, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, half the garlic, egg and season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined, then form into meatballs.</div>
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In a large oven proof skillet, heat half of the oil over a medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. Transfer to a plate.</div>
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Add remaining oil to the skillet and saute the remaining garlic until fragrant. Add the tomatoes and stir until combined.</div>
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Bring to a low simmer and then return the meatballs to the sauce, simmering for a further 10 minutes.</div>
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Top with mozzarella and bake until cheese has melted and chicken is cooked through.</div>
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Garnish with remaining Parmesan and parsley, serve and enjoy.</div>
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This dish was such a hit that it will be on high rotation in our home during the Winter months. All plates were <strike>licked</strike> cleaned at the end of the meal proving that once again Chicken Parma can warm you up even on the chilliest of Winter evenings.</div>
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Enjoy </div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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<i>* You can find the original recipe on this website <a href="http://delish.com/">HERE</a></i></div>
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Linking up for <a href="http://kyliepurtell.com/">IBOT</a></div>
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-56457566926752596582017-07-03T12:05:00.001+10:002017-07-03T12:05:21.764+10:00JUNE - Health and Fitness Update<div>
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Updating my health and fitness each month is about making myself accountable. Not every month this year has been smooth sailing, but writing it all here is making me asses each month, making me aware of the things that I need to improve, and those that are now coming second nature to me. </div>
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Thankfully Junes monthly challenge was an easy one for me. I love stuffing myself with fresh fruits and veggies. I always have, so I know that I do get a good intake of fruit and veg for my health.</div>
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Fitness wise. I need to kick it up a notch, to find the time and also put in the effort. I know that I have become lazy where deliberate exercise is concerned. Not good I know.</div>
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Can you believe that at one time I attended the gym six days a week without fail. </div>
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Drinking water has become second nature. At one time I would go days without drinking a glass of water. I just didn't enjoy it. Now it has become my main liquid intake, and its one habit that I am happy to have succeeded in. </div>
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Next month it is all about downsizing my portions. </div>
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A few years ago <strike>okay make that four years ago</strike> I lost a lot of weight. Downsizing my portions was a big factor in my success. Back then I purchased a smaller sized dinner plate to serve my meals on and so I will be pulling it out from the back of the cupboard to use again. </div>
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Please don't ask me why I didn't continue using said plate. Plain and simple, I thought that I had won the battle and would not return to my miserable self again. </div>
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Guess what...</div>
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I did and that is just life !</div>
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I hope that your fitness goals for 2017 are going well for you, and that you are enjoying the changes that you are making no matter how big or small they may be. Now please excuse me while I go put on my joggers and make myself go for a much needed long walk.</div>
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span></div>
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-86201069124676926802017-07-01T14:39:00.002+10:002017-07-01T14:39:25.545+10:00TAKING STOCK - June 2010<br />
Here we are again, the first day of a brand new month. Gee this year is whizzing by, I remember being told that as you get older time passes by more quickly, but this is getting mighty ridiculous. Seven months into 2017 and I still feel as though nothing that I set out to do has been accomplished. Do you feel that way too ? The upside being that we still have six months left to get our butts into gear and tick off a few things on this years bucket list.<br />
At least we have the gorgeous <a href="http://meetmeatmikes.com/">Pip</a> to thank for <i style="font-weight: bold;">Taking Stock, </i>to remind us that even though we may not be getting the big things in life accomplished, we are still making many small things happen within our every day lives.<br />
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<b>Making ; </b>more time to spend pottering in the garden. The cooler months give me so much more energy and motivation to get out and about in the fresh air.<br />
<b>Cooking ; </b>dinner every single night, and biscuits every weekend. Feeding five hungry men is a challenge.<br />
<b>Drinking ; </b>G & T's. I know I shouldn't be but, well, you know....<br />
<b>Reading ; </b>My Mothers Secret by Sheila O'Flanagan and The Good Girl by Fiona Neill.<br />
<b>Trawling ; </b>Instagram and Snapchat for fabulous new accounts to follow.<br />
<b>Wanting ; </b>for call backs to all the jobs I have applied for.<br />
<b>Looking ; </b>for new recipes. I am always on the hunt for new easy and delicious meals to fill my hungry crew.<br />
<b>Deciding ; </b>if I should cut my hair. Do you think that a new style would make me look more professional ?<br />
<b>Wishing ; </b>that the days would slow down a little. Before long it will be summer again <strike>yuck</strike> My last baby boy will be graduating high school and then Christmas will be upon us <strike>Noooooo</strike><br />
<b>Enjoying ; </b>my Winter garden and the pops of colour.<br />
<b>Waiting ; </b>for the chance to prove my worth.<br />
<b>Liking ; </b>that is school holidays and the horrible lunchbox is hiding in the kitchen draw.<br />
<b>Wondering ; </b>how much life is going to change around here when and if I start working again, and when we no longer are the parents of a school student.<br />
<b>Loving ; </b>having my two eldest sons home. Yes it is still going pretty smoothly <strike>for now anyway</strike><br />
<b>Pondering ; </b>life and everything that we could have, should have done differently over the years.<br />
<b>Listening ; </b>to all the nineties music of my teenage years and reliving the memories the songs provoke. Thanks Spotify.<br />
<b>Considering ; </b>getting my herb garden up and running again.<br />
<b>Buying ; </b>food. Always buying food.<br />
<b>Watching ; </b>Mad Men and loving it SO much. I only have four episodes left to watch.<br />
<b>Hoping ; </b>that I will find the perfect hall runner soon.<br />
<b>Cringing ; </b>at some of the music that I thought was fabulous back when. LOL<br />
<b>Needing ; </b>coffee coffee and more coffee.<br />
<b>Questioning ; </b>myself and why I am finding it so difficult to loose weight at the moment.<br />
<b>Smelling ; </b>freshly mowed grass, Winter rain, the first coffee of the morning and the scent of candles.<br />
<b>Wearing ; </b>my PJ's for more hours in the week than I should. I am still doing the school/work runs in them of a morning. <strike>I really must stop this</strike><br />
<b>Noticing ; </b>just how grown up my boys are these days and getting a little weepy about it.<br />
<b>Knowing ; </b>that it is just a matter of time before all my boys leave home and leave me wondering what is next.<br />
<b>Thinking ; </b>about changing the name of my blog but not knowing exactly what would be involved. <strike>Mrs Clueless over here</strike><br />
<b>Admiring ; </b>women who seem to have life all<i> worked out, </i>and wondering what their secret of faking it till they are making it is.<br />
<b>Getting ; </b>tired of my cranky, horrible back neighbour. I so wish that he would move.<br />
<b>Bookmarking ; </b>new blogs to read. There are so many awesome bloggers out there left for me to discover.<br />
<b>Opening ; </b>the fridge and wondering where all the food I just purchased has gone.<br />
<b>Closing ; </b>cupboard doors after my husband <i>EVERY SINGLE DAY</i> ! It is just as easy to close them as it is to open them dear........<br />
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<b>Feeling ; </b>like I am going to be roundand chubby for ever.<b> ^</b><br />
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<b>Hearing ; </b>my boys laughing and loving that they are all so close.<strike>most of the time</strike><br />
<b>Celebrating ; </b>my blogs fifth birthday. Welcoming a new fur baby into our home and my decision to return to the work force <strike>hopefully</strike> finger crossed people.<br />
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So that has been my June. I must also say that my ability to stick with my healthy eating and fitness plan has gone way out the window this month. I have no one to blame but myself of course so I am calling myelf a June fitness failure. Lucky for me July arrived today which gives me a brand new month to get myself back on track.<br />
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<i>There is always tomorrow.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
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<i><br /></i>
How was June for you ?<br />
Did you do anything special ?<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span><br />
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Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-40998914213960995432017-06-29T11:53:00.003+10:002017-06-30T19:57:30.563+10:00EDUCATION.COM - Make Learning Fun and Easy For Your Child. <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br />
If your like me, the education of your child/children is extremely important and giving them the best start in their education is essential.<br />
L<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">earning doesn't come easy to all of us, but the team at <a href="http://education.com/">Education.com</a> have taken learning to a new level, providing fun and interactive ways to help your child learn. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">When Jennifer from <a href="http://education.com/">Education.com</a> approached me and asked if I would like to publish a fully prepared activity exclusively to <i>craftypjmum </i>I jumped at the chance. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Here is an example of what is available:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
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What's My Number?<br />
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It's important to have a good understanding of numbers and their values. This guessing game combines logic with number sense. It suits all ability levels, as players' questions can be simple or complex. All you need is a deck of cards to get started with this <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.education.com/games/math/&source=gmail&ust=1498621972621000&usg=AFQjCNEjiVDYsHbTGhSE8kb_YSGRn8bXgA" href="https://www.education.com/games/math/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">fun math game</a>! Work in teams or individually, with any number of players. Why not invite the whole family to play?<br />
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What You Need:<br />
Deck of playing cards with the face cards (jacks, queens, kings) removed<br />
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What You Do:</div>
<ol style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Have the first clue-giver draw one card from the deck at random.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Tell the player who correctly guesses a card earns that card and the right to be the next clue-giver.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Encourage the other players to take turns asking mathematical questions in order to figure out what card was drawn.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Let the clue giver know that he should respond to each question with a yes or no answer.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">If the guessing players get stumped, the dealer should give out a few mathematical hints. (e.g. if you add 5, subtract 2, and multiply my card by 3, the total is thirty)</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Have the current clue-giver pass the deck to the new clue-giver.</li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;">Play until the deck is depleted or set a time limit and when time is up, the player with the most cards wins!</li>
</ol>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">
<br />
Pop on over to <a href="http://education.com/">Education.com</a> and learn more about this great program, and put your kids on the right path to learning with guided lessons.<br />
With over 30,000+ teacher-approved educational resources.<br />
Engaging games, songs, worksheets, Interactive exercises and many more.<br />
Easy to use on their own, with parents or teachers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>* this is not a sponsored post </i></div>
Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-91179136510914052852017-06-27T13:44:00.002+10:002017-06-27T13:45:31.395+10:00AND THEN THERE WERE THREE<br />
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It is true, I have always been a cat person. Cute and cuddly, I just cant go passed all the fury goodness. This week I took my cat loving to new heights and our family welcomed a brand new fur baby into our home. So I guess it is only fair to give myself the title of <i style="font-weight: bold;">crazy cat lady </i>and my family, well they totally agree....<br />
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Abby { <i>Old Nana }</i><br />
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She is the original fur baby.<br />
The leader of the pack.<br />
Abby is almost eleven years old and with the nick name of <i> "Old Nana" </i>you can imagine that she tolerates nothing from anyone. This includes the two newest additions.<br />
She is lovable, gentle and will cuddle up to anyone provided that she is in the mood.<br />
She does have some very bad habits though....<br />
She loves to eat salt and vinegar chips and BBQ shapes.<br />
She is not allowed to eat these by any means but sneak them as much as she can.<br />
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Penelope { Penny; Guts }<br />
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Penny was only six weeks old when we fell in love with this tiny fur ball. Now she is two and I cant imagine life without this beauty.<br />
She has spent two years trying to befriend Abby without success but she never gives up on her will to win.<br />
Penny is noisy, I have never heard a cat meow so much.<br />
Every single night Penny goes through what we call <i style="font-weight: bold;">crazy hour</i>. She goes absolutely crazy running around the house like her tail is on fire.<br />
Penny is a proper princess. She demands to be fed before I have my morning coffee and needs to be settled at the foot of my bed before I snuggle down for the night.<br />
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Nancy;<br />
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Nancy is our newest addition joining our family last Friday.<br />
She is two years old and we adopted her from the RSPCA after she was abandoned.<br />
She is so sweet, preferring the males of the house to me at the moment, but she is slowly warming up to me.<br />
Abby is not bothered with her at all. I think she is to old to care anymore. Penny however is very curious. She follows Nancy everywhere. This house is her domain as far as she is concerned and gets quite upset if Nancy sits in any <i>"her" </i>spots.<br />
There has been no fights between any of them that has caused any concern, so for now we share our home with three very different but very beautiful little ladies that make life far from boring.<br />
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Linking up for this weeks IBOT with <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">Kylie</a> <br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-90809628197472762252017-06-27T12:21:00.002+10:002017-06-27T12:21:43.229+10:00FIVE YEARS <br />
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Five years ago I pressed published on the first post for Craftypjmum. <i>You can read that post </i><a href="http://craftypjmum.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/hello.html">here</a> <br />
Short and sweet, I welcomed you guys to read a handful of amature posts that maybe someday some of you would click on and read.<br />
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Imagine my surprise when you did read them, and even more surprising, some of you are still here reading my offering of useless ramblings. If I am honest it is all kinds of wow and I want to thank you for sticking around.<br />
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I wasn't sure how long this blogging adventure would last for me. But as the years have past it has bought so much joy for me as I essentially write an online diary of my life. Maybe one day, when I am old and grey it will help remind me of the adventures that my life has taken me on. But until then I am happy to continue oversharing useless pieces of information with the hope that you will all keep clicking on the links and reading them.<br />
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Thank you all so much for the past five years of joy, especially you <i style="color: purple;">JULES </i>because without your help none of this would have gotten off the ground.<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3104416929952002177.post-1548337837573682032017-06-20T12:37:00.000+10:002017-06-20T12:37:22.114+10:00WINTER IN MY GARDEN<br />
Now that Winter is here, gardens tend to get a bit bare. Most plants stop flowering and go into hibernation, leaving gardens to struggle in beauty.<br />
Living in North Queensland however, I find Winter the perfect time to potter around in the garden. The temperature is perfect to prepare the beds for our harsh summers that bombard us with super hot dry conditions leading up to Christmas and the long wet season that usually follows.<br />
Though we may not be lucky enough to grow the same plants as in the cooler zones during summer, our mild winters give us the advantage of growing them in our mild winter, and with so many gorgeous tropical plants at hand, our gardens here can supply us with beauty all year round.<br />
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Succulents thrive in our hot dry conditions, and by moving them out of shaded areas and into the winter sunshine, they will continue to put on a spectacular show. I just need to cut back on the watering.<br />
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Petunias are the perfect annual to add colour in any garden. With so many varieties available they are all kinds of stunning. These ruffled ones are my favourite and the colour is amazing amongst all the green.<br />
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Natives bring beauty to any garden. I really need to plant some more at our place.<br />
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And who cant go past the classic rose ? This yellow rose has been going great guns for about four years now. It is the first one that I have had success in growing and it brings me so much joy. I love bringing the cut flowers inside and waking up to one by my bedside.<br />
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How does your garden grow in winter ?<br />
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Linking up on this dreary winter day with <a href="http://www.kyliepurtell.com/">Kylie</a> to bring some colour to your life...<br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><i>beck xx</i></span>Beckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08726487808710772500noreply@blogger.com0