Kathryn...

Life... in all season(ings) and spices...

2008-10-30T13:38:00.004+11:00

It's been even longer than usual since I last blogged. My life has changed forever in the last few months. Not in a catastrophic way, but I have been touched by God's greater plan for my life.

A few months ago (and some of you already know this) my Dad got really sick. He nearly died. He spent ten (10) weeks in two different hospitals, much of that in an induced coma. The impact on my life has only hit me recently.

Today, my Dad is alive! It's the little things that you begin to appreciate when people you love go through things that in turn encourage you and make you stronger. I cried when Dad actually talked to me on the telephone a couple of weeks ago. Dad usually says "Hi, I'll get your Mother for you" (he has even done this unitentionally when we have called for him!). On this occasion, he talked to me.

Recently he has been able to write again. For a man who left school at fifteen he has beautiful writing. For Dad, this was a great dignity returned to him.

I was reminded this week of those who want to exit the pain of this world under their own terms. I am not naieve to their point of view, but I believe that God has a much bigger plan for us. I am glad my Dad always believed that he would live if that was God's plan, and be promoted to Glory if that was His plan. Dad fought the pain of this world - so far he's winning.

Kath :)

Protocol?

2008-05-07T20:29:00.002+10:00

I know, I know, I haven't blogged for ages. The truth is that the idea hasn't really grabbed me until now.

Recently my husband received a Facebook "friends" request from an ex-boyfriend of mine. To be honest, I was (and still am) surprised at his gall.

This is someone that (yes, I know how long ago it was) was not welcome at our wedding, and certainly after how he has over the years emotionally and psychologically treated many women (some who were under 16 at the time)is not welcome in our home.

How would you handle this situation?

Kath :)

But Mummy...

2008-01-11T15:15:00.000+11:00

Here's my first major faux pas for 2008 (Happy New Year by the way). We were running on time this morning, Sean was all ready for Little School (LS = Daycare) with his shiny new Bob the Builder backpack (that he bought out of his Christmas money), his LS T-Shirt on and his hat. The car ride was great - no blockage on the bridge. We pulled up infront of LS and...

"But Mummy... there's no-one there"
"Of course there is... c'mon"
"But Mummy... there's NO-ONE there"
"Sean, let's go inside... Oh."

Guess where we will be 8.15am NEXT Friday morning...

K xo

106 50/52...

2007-10-05T15:55:00.000+10:00

Today Grandma received her Reward. God released her from the shackels of life and welcomed her to His embrace.

"May" 1900-2007

Kath :)

Parallel Sacrifice

2007-09-25T11:11:00.000+10:00

A couple of days ago I was talking to a friend of ours who about 10 years ago had a kidney transplant. I didn't know until that conversation that their mother was the kidney donor. I don't know why, but that really put a whole new view on the situation for me.

The parallels between our sibling in Christ's gift of life (both by birth and by organ donation) from their mother and God sending Jesus to earth as a baby and then raising the 33 year old man from the dead really amazed me.

God does work in mysterious ways...

Kath :)

Which Dr am I?

2007-08-20T22:01:00.000+10:00

D'oh - I was hoping I would be number 9 (ie Christopher Eccleston) he's cooler

You scored as 10th Doctor, Rude and not ginger.Dressed in a smart suit and very helpfull, you don't let people get away with things, and with your glasses you won't miss much!

10th Doctor

67%

1st Doctor

67%

9th Doctor

50%

5th Doctor

50%

3rd doctor

50%

4th Doctor

33%

2nd doctor

25%

Davros

25%

a Dalek

17%

7th Doctor

17%

8th Doctor

17%

6th doctor

17%

What Doctor Who character are You?
created with QuizFarm.com

Wow you're fat!!!

2007-08-20T11:49:00.000+10:00

If the link doesn't work it's Ps John's 18 Aug 07 post...

Anyone had any situations as interesting as this? (If so, I hope it wasn't me that said it!)...

Kath xo

PS Thank you God for the rain!!!

This makes me sick!

2007-08-16T17:34:00.000+10:00

I felt enraged when I read the headline, and physically sick when I read the article. I wonder how muslims feel about this. For my two cents worth, Allah is not mentioned in the Bible, and I equate calling/referring to God (in the Christian sense) Allah far worse than referring to a woman as a wench, or c*#t. I hope this Bishop sees the error of his ways and repents.

Thoughts?

Let's all call God Allah: Dutch bishop - World - BigPond News

Kath.

Hospitals and Hugs

2007-07-28T10:33:00.000+10:00

Spent yesterday shopping (alone!) but knowing something was near... or someone was far...

Spent early hours of this morning at the hospital with Sean (Ian was there too) ... too little to treat (just a tummy bug)...

Spent this morning washing, dishwashing and asking God to calm my soul...and strengthen my back... He sent angels to give me virtual hugs...

Each year it gets a little easier... and a little closer to Eternity and not wanting to steal it from those already there...

Hugs (and Garden Gnomes!) to you all...

Kath xo

Man flies 5600 km for wedding a year early

2007-07-11T15:14:00.000+10:00

Man flies 5600 km for wedding a year early hmmm... Personally, I wouldn't send him an invite for next year...

Kath :)

Nothing reminds like metal piercing into your chest...

2007-06-27T12:29:00.000+10:00

I actually forgot to blog this until this morning... Not for the ultra-conservative or faint hearted!

Last Tues night at Bible Study 'Kath the clutz' returned. Many of the Sydney/Hurstville crew would remember how clumsy I was in my earlier years. Well, it returned last week... I spilled a drink all over Kelly's table... twice! I then had the horror of feeling a stabbing sensation in my chest, I looked down to find my underwire popping up my shirt and stabbing me in the process... To make matters worse, the underwire popped up again this morning whilst I was having a serious talk to a visiting missionary...

Kath :)

Remembering Ruth Bell Graham (1920-2007)

2007-06-25T16:51:00.000+10:00

Remembering Ruth Bell Graham (1920-2007)

I found this article from an e-news letter I subscribe to called Crosswalk.

Kath :)

Pilgrimage to God's Land

2007-06-06T12:56:00.000+10:00

Last weekend I had a trip back to Sydney for Andrea's Hen's Night. My lovely hosts on Friday night (thanks Kel & Dave!) really spoiled with a lovely dinner, very comfortable accommodation and to top it off an excursion to God's Land sipping an offering from Grind...

I then went and visited my parents (Happy Birthday for today Mum!), who showed me off to EVERYONE they knew while we were out shopping, then came Saturday night... Dinner at a undisclosed location for Andrea and her friends. It was a great time to catch up with old friends, but boy was I glad to crawl into bed! Big thanks to Kirsty for putting me up and being my taxi.

Following my last post re our sponsor child M, Sean has a vague understanding of M (and tries to say his name!) and looks at the photos on the fridge... very cute :)

Kath xo

The last few weeks...

2007-05-29T15:03:00.000+10:00

I have been just crusin' along the last few weeks, nothing has really jumped out at me as being 'blog-worthy' at the time, but looking back...

Went to Sydney for Uncle Stan's funeral (early May). It was a beautiful service, a good time to honour a great bloke and a true gentleman to boot.
Had the famous "how soon is too soon" job interview (see previous post) and still have not had a lot of action on the job front.
Mother's Day - very quiet... Ian was exhausted from the previous day's fishing at Forster. Don't be too hard on him, he rarely gets to go, it was just bad timing.
Sean's accident. If you haven't heard as yet, Sean has bumped his front teeth. He was climbing on a bookshelf at daycare (that his carers had told him not to) and it fell on him, splitting his top lip, knocking back one of his top teeth and chipping off half of the other top front tooth. We are thankful that adult teeth should be here in about 3 years! Also, after my HICAPS claim, it only cost us $8 for the dentist visits (yes, there were two).
My Birthday... 25 since 2000! I share the day with Drew Carey, Joan Collins, Seabiscuit (he and Joan were born 1933) and Rosemary Clooney...

That's about it...

Kath :)

Letters from Afar...

2007-05-29T14:50:00.000+10:00

Today we received a letter from our sponsor child, M, in Africa. This was the first time that Sean has had any real knowledge of him. It was actually M's report card and a photo. I realised trying to explain why this little African boy was sending Mummy a photo was going to be hard, so we are going to "introduce" Sean to his sponsor-brother (?) M tonight when Ian gets home.

Kath :)

Taree - Tropical Coffee Co

2007-05-10T16:48:00.000+10:00

I have decided to post more reviews on Hunter/Mid North Coast, Family and just Fabbo Cafes and food places... Feel free to email me 'guest reviews' if you find stuff in said categories.

Tropical Coffee Co (Pulteney Arcade, Taree)
I stumbled across this little gem when I (seriously) felt God guide me down an arcade I don't normally frequent in Taree yesterday. The atmosphere was tastefully islandesque with quite a few tables, but still a comfortable amount of room.

Service was very prompt - but not too prompt (see previous post). Staff seemed very genuine in wanting to help and were just as happy when I 'just wanted a cheese and tomato toasted sandwich' for lunch. It came with a small side of sprouts and a scattering of potato crisps on the top.

I broke with tradition and had the Rose Grey tea ($3.50) which came in a 3 cup plunger. The first cup was great, but the second (and it's my fault) was plunged too long for my liking.

Opening hours 7am-3pm Mon-Fri. They're not open weekends because, simply they don't need to be. They are booked out nearly every morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, so if you're in the area best to get in early. Would be an ideal place to sit and write/blog for a little while.

How soon is too soon?

2007-05-10T16:42:00.000+10:00

I went to a job interview yesterday for a job that teeters on my interests more than my previous experience. I had a really good feeling about the people I would have been working for and their business "plan" (it's a new franchise). In today's snail-mail I received the 'thanks for coming' letter. To me this is a little too efficient... especially since I saw them walking out of the post office yesterday...

Thoughts? Feel free to include interview horror stories!

Kath :)

On the Road (Again)...

2007-04-30T17:11:00.000+10:00

We're off to Sydney tomorrow. Firstly to have a (belated) Birthday celebration for Sean with my side of the family, and secondly to farewell Uncle Stan.

My (Great) Uncle Stan served in WWII and was a great person to boot. We are all richer for knowing you Uncle Stan.

Kath :)

Sean's 2, Job Hunting etc

2007-04-20T16:08:00.000+10:00

Yesterday my little moo (Sean) turned 2!!! I haven't uploaded any photos yet, but suffice to say the little tacker is an assassin with wrapping paper! He's also very good at eating cup-cakes and has *finally* learnt to give me cuddles that use both his arms and make me feel loved. Certainly a big difference from last year's birthday.

On the job front, I am looking for casual/part time work again. I have also put in an application for a full time job that has a lot of plusses (good experience, basically the same money as I was earning when I left Sydney), but is a fair way from home. I also sent out several cold call emails and another application today (24 in total)... We'll see...

Kath :)

How Good is God/My Beautiful Son!

2007-03-16T10:25:00.000+11:00

This isn't a boo-hoo story, but a public Thank You to God.

This has been the "tightest" fortnight for us financially that we have ever had. It's not that bigger deal, we are very fortunate and have another paycheque coming in next week, but it just means we have to stick to what's in the pantry and the odd loaf of bread. It has been a little stressful, but we are a lot better off than many people in our town, let alone country.

Sean was playing with my travel coin purse this morning. When I got him out of the car at daycare I found it had just over $4 in it! I was able to get more than just the bread that I had planned!

Praise God – I knew He wouldn’t let me down, and he sent such a smiley little messenger!

Kath :)

What's good for you...

2007-03-07T09:11:00.000+11:00

How many times have we been told to do something because it's good for us? Reading Dr Vale's blog yesterday (http://marveladay.blogspot.com/index.html) reminded me of things we do because of habit, or in the case of children, because we are told we must.

Lately Sean and I have been cleaning our teeth together in the morning. I take my part of this task for granted, after all I have been cleaning my own teeth for near on 30 years. For Sean it is a new habit. I didn't realise how much he has taken note until he produced his toothbrush (with "paste") mid afternoon yesterday.

Reading Dr Vale's blog made me ponder on our habits - however simple, like the soap we use. It also made me think about those things that we don't really notice, but are part of our habits (ie we file them under "routine"). Coffee, email reading, etc make up part of my mornings. How often are our routines (especially if you are house-based) really productive? I will tell you after my 2nd cup of coffee...

K :)

I'm Back!

2007-02-27T14:13:00.000+11:00

I wonder how many posts I have with this title...

Some of you would already know that the past couple of months have been rather hard on me and my family. We have had a lot of illness (ranging from depression to a cousin succumbing to cancer) and things really didn't come together all that well for a little while. The one thing that has kept me going through all this is Jesus's unfailing love and his wonderful embrace.

Recently I subscribed to FlyLady.net after a friend (thanks Deb B!) kept talking about this lady. This lady has (albeit cyberly) helped me to peel away the negitivity so I can see my Saviour with more clarity. As a result, I have had a little more energy, a lot more patience and have been able to serve my son and husband a bit better than normal.

I urge you to find Jesus - find the facts for yourself, and find out how it feels to want to live!

Kath xo

Kath - kid + Perenti = Sanity!

2007-01-17T10:29:00.000+11:00

Sean is back at daycare today. I have had him going round saying "Wenny" "car" "choc" and "Nanna" for nearly 3 weeks now - it has driven me mad for the last two weeks now. I love him but I sincerely thank God for Wendy!!!

Kath :)

110 Kph...

2006-12-01T13:27:00.000+11:00

I *finally* got my full licence yesterday. Only 15 years later than a lot of my friends.... I should get to Sydney about 15mins quicker now ;)

Kath :)

Grumpy Old Cow...

2006-11-22T10:14:00.000+11:00

Firstly, Congratulations to Ian Thorpe - you are an inspiration. I doubt you will read this (well, you never know, retirement may turn into a life of blog-dem), but you do us southerners proud! I wish you success in every avenue of life.

Smithy is SAVED!!! (okay stop laughing any UK Bill fans). YAY!!! I am not one of those girls into prison-boy chic. Ug! I actually looked Alex Walkinshaw up on some talk shows on You Tube. Alex, keep up the good work - who knows, you could be the new Christopher Ellison before you know it!

Well, I guess it's my turn (again) to be grumpy! I recently hired the 2 Grumpy Old Women DVD's from the local Video store. Here's the list...

To my horror the younger 'Grumpies' were only about 10 years older than me!
Happy Meal Toys - Sean received a toy music thing (that I can only assume is an infantile I-Pod substitute) that sings "I like to move it" over-and-over-and-over again. Thank goodness he hasn't worked out the master switch...yet.
The anti-Christian pre-Christmas saturation. I'm not anti-Santa, but seriously, if you aren't prepared to keep baby Jesus in Christmas, don't be a hypocrite and take the Holiday Season's benefits. Santa does not equal Saviour!

Anyway, that's my rant and rave for now...

Kath xo
Reading: my driver qualification test handbook, Peter Costello's Bio (still!)
Watching: Grumpy Old Women, Little Britain (Season 2) and Kingswood Country.

Weird Sites

2006-11-12T16:14:00.000+11:00

I don't know how many of you (like me) click the "next blog" button if they have a few spare minutes. As a result, I've decided to start "showcasing" weird (in my opinion) sites and blogs. Here's a blog on "Hott Cops" - yes that is hot with two t's - that makes my Smithy dedication look somewhat, well, boring. By the way, she's a mustache chick - ewww! Oh, just realised that it says over 18's but the main page is innocent enough...

Kath :)

Perenti Website

2006-11-05T15:34:00.000+11:00

Yay! While showing a friend how to Blog yesterday (and she showed me how to Ebay) we stumbled across the Perenti website.

Kath :)

Blessed Be Your Name...

2006-11-05T15:25:00.000+11:00

Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name

Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say...
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name

Blessed be your name
When the sun's shining down on me
When the world's all as it should be
Blessed be your name

Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there's pain in the offering
Blessed be your name

You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name

by Beth & Matt Redman

The Music List Thingy...

2006-11-03T18:24:00.000+11:00

As seen on http://marveladay.blogspot.com/ (and I am sure I have seen it somewhere else, initially I thought it was dave but I could be wrong), I needed some 'me' time today so here it is... I hope this doesn't come back to me in a few years time (particularly my now outed like for Karaoke, Ronan Keating and Eminem...)

1. favourite beatles song: Penny Lane
2. favourite rolling stones song: paint it black/Ruby Tuesday
3. favourite doors song: Riders on the Storm
4. favourite bob dylan song: too many…
5. favourite led zeppelin song: stairway to heaven
6. favourite tv theme song: The Bill, Third Watch, CSI & CSI: Miami
7. favourite prince song: Red Corvette
8. favourite madonna song: Respect Yourself
9. favourite michael jackson song: n/a
10. favourite queen song: Under Pressure
11. favourite motorhead song: n/a
12. favourite ozzy song: n/a
13. favourite public enemy song: n/a
14. favourite song from a cartoon: Jetson’s theme music
15. favourite bruce springsteen song: i’m on fire / born to run
16. favourite depeche mode song: n/a
17. favourite cure song: n/a
18. favourite song that most of your friends haven’t heard:”We’ve got Tonight” duet Ronan Keating & Lu Lu
19. favourite rem song: end of the world
20. favourite beastie boys song: (you gotta) fight for your right to party
21. favourite clash song: n/a
22. favourite police song: Don’t stand so close to me
23. favourite eurythmics song:When Tomorrow Comes/Thorn in my Side
24. favourite beach boys song:Good Vibrations
25. favourite cyndi lauper song: True Colours
26. favourite song from a movie:It’s an instrumental, but it’s near the end of The Thomas Crown Affair (with Pierce Brosnan and Renee Russo)
27. favourite duran duran song: Hungry Like the Wolf (good Karaoke song)
28. favourite peter tosh song: n/a (he’s a reggae artist similar to Bob Marley)
29. favourite johnny cash song:n/a
30. favourite song from an 80’s one hit wonder: video killed the radio star - the buggles
31. favourite song from a video game: n/a don’t play them
32. favourite kinks song: lola
33. favourite genesis song: In the Air Tonight
34. favourite thin lizzy song: boys are back in town
35. favourite inxs song: Never Tear Us Apart
36. favourite weird al song: Like a Surgeon – still remember the video clip…
37. favourite peter gabriel song: sledgehammer
38. favourite john lennon song: he was nothing without McCartney.
39. favourite pink floyd song: Money
40. favourite cover song: Pretty much anything by Nina Simone or Ronan Keating.
41. favourite white stripes song: n/a
42. favourite dance song: re-jigged 80s stuff usually does it for me... not that i actually dance :) I’m with the Dr on this one.
43. favourite u2 song: The Sweetest Thing (I waited years for this to be released as an ‘A’ side) & Where the Streets Have no Name
44. favourite song from an actor turned musician: n/a
45. favourite disco song: ymca - the village people
46. favourite power ballad: November Rain – Guns N Roses
47. favourite guns n’ roses song: welcome to the jungle – Noooooo, November Rain
48. favourite the who song: Who are you
49. favourite elton john song: Candle in the Wind – the Princess Diana tribute
50. favourite song, period: 80’s and Jazz
51. favourite ryan adams song: Ryan or Bryan Adams? If Bryan, then ‘Run to You’
52. favourite green day song: good riddance (time of your life)
53. favourite alanis morrissette song: Ironic
54. favourite jamiroquai song: Cosmic Girl
55. favourite foo fighters song: monkey wrench
56. favourite david bowie song: Fame/Suffrogette City
57. favourite metallica song: Enter Sandman
58. favourite jeff buckley song: n/a
59. favourite pearl jam song: Better Man
60. favourite grateful dead song: n/a
61. favourite def leppard song: Rocket (?)
62. favourite dixie chicks song: n/a
63: favourite cowboy junkies song: n/a
64. favourite james brown song: i got you (i feel good)
65. favourite barenaked ladies song: one week
66. favourite creedence clearwater revival song: Have you ever Seen the Rain?
67. favourite garth brooks song: n/a
68: favourite chuck berry song: n/a
69: favourite willie nelson song: on the road again – you’ve got to listen to the Vege Tales Version…
70. favourite tom petty: n/a
71. favourite van halen song: Dreams
72. favourite old school soul song: hmm, not sure
73. favourite song that totally kicks righteous ass: Lily was here – Dave Stewart
74: favourite song of yours that everyone else hates: Cleaning out my Closet - Eminem
75: favourite zz top song: n/a
76: favourite ac/dc song: thunderstruck
77. favourite blondie song: heart of glass
78. favourite bob marley song: No Woman No Cry
79. favourite violent femmes song: Blister in the Sun
80. favourite alice in chains song: n/a
81. favourite wallflowers song: One Headlight
82. favourite james taylor song: n/a
83. favourite counting crows song: Mr Jones/their cover Round Here
84. favourite blues traveler song: n/a
85. favourite drinking song: anything you can karaoke to – Amen Dr!
86. favourite hendrix song: Foxey Lady
87. favourite break-up song: Better Man (Pearl Jam), Respect (Madonna)
88. favourite allman brothers song: n/a
89. favourite rusted root song: n/a
90. favourite dave matthews band song:n/a
91. favourite elvis costello song: not sure…
92. favourite beck song: n/a
93. favourite muse song: n/a
94. favourite radiohead song: creep
95. favourite stone temple pilots song: n/a
96. favourite the eagles song: Hotel California
97. favourite janis joplin song: n/a (I’m sure I will kick myself later)
98. favourite coldplay song: Fix You
98. favourite soundgarden song: black hole sun
99. favourite 70s song: Moondance – Van Morrison (had to look up a 70’s chart…)
100. favourite joan osborne song: I only know “One of Us”

Kath :)

For any (other) Smithy tragics out there...

2006-10-25T12:08:00.000+10:00

enjoy!

(if you can't follow link go to www.thebill.com (see link on side) and go to the interactive then games pages).

Kath ;)

News Flood...

2006-10-04T11:06:00.000+10:00

Usually there 'ain't much happenin' in my world that is blog-worthy. This week there seems to be quite a bit that I feel I should pass on...

Firstly we're glad to hear that dave www.cafedave.net is on the mend. Welcome back mate!

Sean is getting even better at walking. He now walks to the car (ie ours) and says "car car". He also runs over your feet with his ride-on car.

Talking of bubs, Stump the Pastor http://www.pastor.us/ has an interesting article on Baby Wigs. If your little munchkin is like Sean, it is something that they will never need but is amusing anyway.

Dr Maya Vale - a well respected Sydney based Christian "blog commentator" has had a few good posts lately. Well worth checking out at http://marveladay.blogspot.com/. Dr Vale I am sure would welcome invitations for speaking engagements (prices on application).

Off to Sydney for a brief trip this afternoon - trying to get ahead with my Christmas shopping - back Friday.

Kath :)
SAVE SMITHY!!!

Eating Humble Pie?

2006-09-29T13:33:00.000+10:00

Further to my recent post on Whinging... yesterday afternoon while Ian, Sean and I were in the garden, a familiar car drove up our street, and quite obviously parked in front of our house. It was her.

Her is the person who I had an interaction (fight? confrontation?) with on Sunday. I referred to her in my previous post as DN (dangerously naive). I went inside and answered the door. Her had a bunch of flowers and a pyrex dish in her hand and a sheepish smile. Great. Here it comes... forgiveness.

We had a good discussion over a cup of tea (yes, I apologised for where I felt I was wrong and that I had hurt her) and we both clarified a few things.

I guess her and I are now the level of colleagues - well, I guess we are. We both want to serve God by bringing others to know the Messiah's love that we know (and clear up a few operational and clerical issues in our Church along the way). I wouldn't say we're friends, but I don't hate her and I know that I can love her.

By the way, after Sean was in bed and we heated up our part of the pyrex-clad offering, Ian turned to me and suggested that it may have been humble pie. I felt my heart rate go up and the pit of my stomach tighten... "here we go" I thought.... Isn't forgiveness a bitter pill to swallow...

Kath xo
PS It was actually shepherds/cottage pie - humble pie is actually a sweet dish (thank you internet). K

This N That...

2006-09-27T11:16:00.000+10:00

Most of you know how much I love my son. Some of you know how much I love Wednesdays when a wonderful woman called Wendy looks after my son (she's a dynamo!) as well as four other tots.

Today was no different in the land of Wednesday. I dropped Sean off at Wendy's, bought the paper and went for my coffee (skim latte this morning) at Perenti. Watching the world go by in almost silence... hmmmm

K :)

Whinging about Whinging...

2006-09-26T11:11:00.000+10:00

Further to Barb's recent post (link to her blog on right) I have to say that there is a lot of whinging in the Church. Just as bad (and damaging) is the non-whinging. What do I mean by that? Well it's when people don't say anything or do anything about bad situations. Why am I saying this? Because I felt more than a few (needed) "ouch-es" when I read Barb's blog.

My lack of speaking up (and whinging to Ian and a couple of close friends) culminated to an almost yelling match (with admittedly someone I don't particularly like) on Sunday morning.

This person was wrong in my eyes with what caused my whinging (and even anger), but I should have been bigger than them and nipped it in the bud earlier, which makes me equally as wrong.

Had it not been for two others who were also victims to this person's living in a blissfully (and dangerously) naive existence, I think many of you would have heard me yelling from Sydney.

The verdict? Thankfully God chose my words, so my point was put across, but had it been left soley up to me, I wouldn't have been happy until the dn (dangerously naive) person was in tears. Yep, I'm a bitch - that's why I need God.

Kath :)

The Waterboy(s)...

2006-09-12T12:25:00.000+10:00

Mum's Pilates again this morning. It was great because we had a babysitter (thanks J!) to look after the little 'uns. Sean and his buddies decided to play musical waterbottles which was funny, but when I had a drink (yes, it was my bottle) I distinctly tasted Jatz - hmmm... I think they took some free samples...

KYB tonight... please pray that I am prepared - spiritually, mentally and have patience...

Kath :)
Watching: Not much
Dislikes: David Tench, Germaine Greer and batty old busy-bodies!
Likes: The Smithy storyline on The Bill (okay, I've had spoilers), Jamie Oliver in Oz...

I Love You... and Sew Bad!

2006-09-11T13:49:00.000+10:00

Sean has done it again! This time we were wishing Ian's Mum Happy Birthday, and when I put Sean on the phone again to talk to Nanna he said "I love you". I think this may have been the best present she has received.

On a less happy note, I went to the sewing shop in town today and was chatting to the ladies who own/work there. We were talking about prices and the subject got to nappies. These two women basically couldn't believe that I didn't use cloth nappies and that their children were toilet trained by the time they were 1 - I nearly cried. I can't remember the last time someone made me feel so awful. I can say for certain that Spotlight will be getting my business from now on, even though it's an hour's drive away.

Kath xo

Shame Germaine

2006-09-07T13:32:00.000+10:00

Greer continues Irwin attack

Love him or hate him, most of us have an opinion on the life of Steve Irwin. I personally liked Steve and appreciate the work he did for conservation in this country. Like many of us, he made mistakes too, but like a worthy role-model for our children, he admitted to them and tried to make the world a better place. Steve, I only wish you knew the beauty of the Creator as well as His creation.

Germaine Greer is, like the rest of us entitled to her opinion. However, in this blogger's eyes, Greer has yet again gone too far. We talk about tall poppies in this country and how many people like to cut them down. I never expected Ms Greer to be one of the poppy 'hench-womyn'.

Greer had her time in the limelight with her so called feminism and liberation of women. It is time for her to put on the sensible slippers and dressing gown and potter around the garden or at the leisure centre. I am ashamed that I share the same birth-country as her. In my view, Ms Greer has done NOTHING for either women or this country. As one of my wise friends pointed out, it is because of her we have women who struggle with the pressure to do EVERYTHING - hold down a full-time job, run a household and raise a family as well as contribute to the community in general. My friend and I agree that there is nothing wrong with these things, but we feel that it is because of Greer and the like that it is now becoming expected of women.

I wonder what kind of memorial Ms Greer will receive at the end of her life...

Kath :)

I'm So Proud of Our Sean....

2006-09-06T10:07:00.000+10:00

There are days when I hunt around for a ventilated postpack to post him off to my sister in Walgett (no, her name is not Betty) and there are other days when he just makes me beam with pride...

Not sure if yesterday was a postpack day or not, but I was at Mum's Pilates and Mandy was counting for one of our exercises. We then heard a child repeating her counting. I was taken aback (lying on my mat) when my friend next to me said "Kath, that's Sean". I had this warm gooey feeling of pride (and surprise).

Later when I told Ian this he replied "well, it's not surprising where he got 1-2-3 from". It's what we say when he's about to get a smack... hmmm.....

Kath xo
Reading: Gardening books (composting is particularly big for me at the moment)
Watching: Too much (that's typical)... last night's The Bill, wishing JAG was on earlier!

Sean - Now With Added MOBILITY

2006-09-02T20:01:00.000+10:00

Well, I can tell you all now (since Ian's parents are away and my parents, Jen, Virginia etc now all know)...

Sean walked last Monday. He does (only once or twice per day, mind you) these really cool zombie steps with his hands in the air and then falls over. No holding on to anything, no grabbing onto Mummy's jeans...

He's growing up so fast....

K :)

Back to Normal?

2006-08-31T12:48:00.000+10:00

Some of you may know the *issues* I have had with our computer. They are now fixed, and I have gotten back into routine. Mind you, this is after me being sick, getting some work (yay!!!) and now Ian being sick.

This morning I went to Playgroup (first time in 3 weeks). I prayed before I went that things would work out well without my sidekick. They did! I miss T (sidekick) but apart from shrill screaming from excited pre-schoolers it was really good. I am glad that Satan didn't attack us today. Yay God!!!

This brings me to another point. I guess this is a sign of the times... but... the other night I was looking at a link to one of The Bill fansites. They are also a Smithy fan, but they seem to be obsessed to the point that I think it's a full-time job for them and I am worried. I am praying for this person (I think female), but does anyone else have any ideas on how I can help them/her? I am worried that their obsession may start to cross over into the actor's real life. (feel free to email me offline if you don't want the world seeing your comment).

Kath xo

All Systems Go!

2006-08-29T18:36:00.000+10:00

Hi Everyone,

Well, it's been a few weeks, but all is good again in computerland - thanks Jen9!

Kath :)

Gray's Anatomy V Scrubs

2006-08-01T14:02:00.000+10:00

Am I the only person who cannot tell these shows apart?

Virtual Hugs...

2006-07-27T08:43:00.000+10:00

I think that the above link for today says it all. To dear friends far and not-so-far I send hugs.

It's never easy, you don't know for how long or what to feel, the memories are still there. We all remember in different ways, for some the memories are nearer than others, for the others, much water has passed under the bridge. To want them back is to try to take Heaven from them.

May they rest in perfect eternal peace and the warmth of God's brilliant light.

K xo

Captain Sean...

2006-07-14T16:32:00.000+10:00

Security clearance has been granted. Here's Sean with Park Air 1 - one of the helicopters belonging to NPWS (or DEC). It landed the other day at the RFS helipad in Gloucester.

I wonder if Sean is going to follow in his Dad's (and Uncle Anthony's) footsteps...

K :)

Welcome aboard (insert name). This is your Captain, Sean...

2006-07-11T22:17:00.000+10:00

Sean had his first sit in a REAL helicopter today - he was grinning from the moment he spotted the chopper parked on the helipad!

Photos/more detail later in the week they need security clearance (seriously).

Kath :)

Grumpy Old Woman?

2006-07-05T15:20:00.000+10:00

I was watching Grumpy Old Women last night on ABC. I was shocked at just how much these 40-60 something year old women I am like! My jaw dropped when I saw that they motion to people who drive whilst talking on mobile phones and glaring at people who litter (or chase after them). I can't believe that these women are just like me - only older!!!

No wonder I tell people I'm a grumpy old cow!

Kath xo

Not so Hell-ish...

2006-06-21T12:25:00.000+10:00

Thank you for the cupcake recipe Fiona!
The Dragon's form!!! Keep it up Boys!
More recruits to Rugby Union... poaching or natural progression?
The Socceroos... I almost (like the song says) "want to jump and scream in a stadium, full of Australians"...
Rocket Man (Sat 7.30pm ABC) - pick or pan? (ie anyone ready to fess up to watching it?)

K xo

Rot in Hell...

2006-06-21T12:17:00.000+10:00

Apologies to any British readers... or any Aussies that taped The Bill last night and are yet to watch it.

Last night's The Bill episode (shown in Australia) was the best in YEARS! Finally "Gabriel" David Kent met his demise (yay!!!). Smithy (as usual) saved the day! "Gabriel" Kent has spent the last two or more years terrorising the poor innocent (not in the biblical sense) plods at Sun Hill. He has clocked up several murders, deception, "incest" (posing as one officer's long lost son after having an affair with her), rape... need I continue?

Rot in Hell Gabriel!!!

Kath xo

I'll risk the Greens!

2006-06-19T15:57:00.000+10:00

SMH showed an article re lack of vegetables in diets. This isn't an obesity scare, it features cultures that don't have (or have very little) vegetable and fruit matter in their diets. Enjoy!

K :)

I can see clearly now the rain has gone...

2006-06-13T14:51:00.000+10:00

Well it was a great song covered wonderfully by Hothouse Flowers back in the 80's or thereabouts, but the words perfectly describe our holiday. Yes, we have been away for the last almost 3 weeks and from the second week until we left Sydney yesterday it rained almost non-stop!!!

Here are some hilights (and some not so bright) snippets of the last few weeks (in no particular order):

Thanks to dave for re-jigging my site. I got to *finally* catch up with the ever lovely kel whilst he was tinkering. BTW kel is a fantastic restaurant chooser!!!
My Mum had a special Birthday - we had a good time and she seemed to enjoy herself. I think that was one of the least stressful family gatherings for a long time.
Andrew's 30th - Fiona, if you're reading this, can I have the cupcake recipe? It would knock the socks of the CWA chicks!
Rain at Vincentia (Jervis Bay) from the Tues-Fri. We left on Friday (sorry Kate & Steve!) because the weather was sooooo bad! There was actually condensation running down the inside of the windows.
The night out with "The Andreas" - I can't remember when I last laughed so much!
Spending time with the 3 most important people in my life: Ian, Sean & Jen. I love you all so much.
Seeing the Sydney Bienale (no I haven't checked the spelling) - I enjoy seeing art from another angle.
GO the DRAGONS - 2 in a row (at least)!!!!
GO the Wallabies!!!! (Yes, I was at the June 11 game)
GO the Socceroos!!! Okay, soccer is now officially a sport. But it will N E V E R be Football! Real men pick up the ball and run with it!
Seeing quite a few old friends (who aren't really old, but you get the drift).

Kath xo

Can't Wait V Heart's not in it...

2006-05-21T20:13:00.000+10:00

As usual, it's been too long...

Can't Wait for...

Our holidays - they start this week
Seeing some of the Sydney crew again (yeah, dave, when's it going to be?)
Smithy to go to prison
Smithy to get out of prison

Heart's not in it...

Blogging (sorry, but that's pretty obvious by my lack of blog)
Cleaning (we have a house sitter, and she bites if you ask nicely enough and I want to leave the house clean for her)

See some of you in Sydney...

K xo

Should he stay or should he go?

2006-04-26T21:11:00.000+10:00

There has been a lot in the press lately about the possibility of Mark Gasnier leaving the Dragons (St George Illawarra) to sign up for Rugby Union.

This hilights an issue that I feel very strongly about. I love both Rugby League and Rugby Union. From St George Illawarra to Southern Districts and beyond there is one thing that is going to link these codes fairly closely over the next few years... The Salary Cap.

Why can't a player who has X amount of talent be paid whatever he is worth. To me this includes on-field talent, and marketability. Missionaries (okay, hear me out) have to raise their own support to go and do the mightiest job off all, and yet various organisations won't let these athletes have the opportunity of earning whatever the "labels" are willing to throw at them. The corporate world is based on the highest bidder wins. Why can't they allow those who can make the bids into the Rugby League arena?

Whilst I don't think Gaz is quite worth the bikkies that Rugby Union is allegedly going to throw his way, wouldn't it be better that he stays in League and be paid what he is worth there? In my opinion the salary cap has it's place, but have any of you been on the same rate of pay for over 5 years?

It's time to get a bigger cap, or let the corporate giants throw their (endorsed) caps into the ring.

Kath :)

PS Matt Giteau, if you're reading this, please sms Gaz the name and number of your hairdresser!

Don't call me Baby!!!

2006-04-24T11:12:00.000+10:00

This is literally about the 5th time I have attempted to blog this over the last few days, so bear with me!

Easter Weekend we went to Sydney for Sean's 1st Birthday party with his Grandparents and my sister Jen. All was good - Sean was spoilt!

On our way out on Sunday to see our friend's new baby, Tara, we stopped by at a familiar place...

Another First...

2006-04-07T16:28:00.000+10:00

I wish I had a picture of this... took Sean out for his first Babycino today at Perenti. It was a great way to mark the (almost) end of a very busy week (more on that later).

It's moments like these you cherish forever!

Kath xo

St George Illawarra 44 - Rabbitohs 10 !!!

2006-03-26T21:35:00.000+11:00

Firsty, I would like to apologise to Nathan Brown and the Dragons. I really had a bad feeling back in round 1 that this year was going to start off like the past few years. Today's result restored my confidence.

GO THE DRAGONS!!!!

Kath :)

Walgett...

2006-03-14T10:24:00.000+11:00

Visiting Jen in Walgett. It's 712km from filling up at Gloucester yesterday morning to Jen's. Not sure if I took the shortest route, but with Sean in tow, things just take that *bit* longer - I'm sure Erika can relate!

Ate at Cafe 64 this morning - no photo, just a lot of orange out the front, and some pretty good coffee on the inside (and great service!). Makes a change from my stop at Dunedoo where there was a sign up "Instant Coffee now available $2.50" - they would have had to give it away to get me to think about drinking it (I still had 3 hours to drive).

Q: is it wrong to Panadol your child to keep them quiet in the car?

Kath xo

PS: Panadol came up as "vandal" in spellcheck! Oh, the irony!

100th Post & Dragon eaten by Tiger!

2006-03-11T23:11:00.000+11:00

I believe this is my 100th post. Firstly I would like to thank Ian for being understanding about sometimes finding out what I'm thinking via blog. Secondly I have to thank dave and all the crew (well it's really him and kel (hugs to you kel)) @ cafedave. Last, and not least, thank you Sean, my little source of inspiration, perspiration, frustration and cuddles.

Now, on a more serious note. Nathan, (you know who you are) I am not pleased. I trust that you won't let the Panthers get the better of the boys next week. Only 8 days to go - use the time well. Do not put me to shame in the family tipping comp!

K :)

50 and not out...

2006-03-08T12:02:00.000+11:00

Last weekend some of you may have seen me darting about in Sydney. We were down for Ian's Parents' 50th Wedding Anniversary. The family got together and threw them a surprise 50th Birthday party at a local Chinese Restaurant.

On Sunday morning we had a cake at Church morning tea. Surprised? You bet!

However, all the partying took its toll - Ian, Sean & I woke up yesterday with Gastro... and we had to call Ian's parents up here to help with Sean.

Happy Anniversary Mum & Dad P!!!

K xo

Like Mother, Like Son

2006-02-28T16:39:00.000+11:00

Today Sean had his first "haircut". Amanda did a great job in giving Sean a trim. Yes, he wriggled but he was pretty good. Must take after Mum...

Our Church has started "40 Days of Purpose" (Rick Warren). I have read the first 2 days - did you know that when things hurt us, God crys with us? We often take for granted how much He loves us.

Kath xo

They're little treasures, aren't they?

2006-02-24T14:46:00.000+11:00

Taken on Wednesday...

Sign of the Times?

2006-02-21T08:03:00.000+11:00

Just received 3 hoax emails re: banking. The big deal - it was actually in relation to the bank I actually bank with, and not a bank that I have never delt with. The syntax of the emails reminded me of a friend I once worked with who English was her 2nd language. Also the banner was a different shade to the real website.

Nice try guys, but not good enough for this cookie!

K xo

Just cruisin' along

2006-02-16T17:02:00.000+11:00

As usual, I haven't blogged in ages. Not much about me to write about (all the good stuff comes with a confidentiality clause)... Sean is getting into EVERYTHING. Is it wrong to be relieved to hand him over to babysitters (thanks Emma & Tim!!!) and then hand him over to a carer the next morning (thanks Sandra!)?

At a bit of a crossroad in my life at the moment - hard to know (or wait to know) what God's saying...

Kath xo

So much to say...

2006-02-07T15:29:00.000+11:00

I am sure some (if not all) of you can relate to this. Something happens, and you go "I should blog that". Well, that has happened to me several times in the last week or so. The biggest things have been in relation to Sean:

Sean's first word: Nan-na. This happened at Bible Study week-before-last. Since then he has said Mum-ma, Ad-da (Dadda), and Bub-Bub.

Sean's first wave: at Bible Study last week. I wonder what tomorrow night will bring!

Today is not so hot up here - it looks like we're in for lots of rain. Coincindently, our concrete paths are being formed up tomorrow.

Kath xo

Back to Earth

2006-01-23T12:02:00.000+11:00

The baby is sleeping, the hubby's at work, not a creature is stirring...

Today feels like my first day back to reality since early November (ie before we moved house).

Cheers to 2006!

Kath xoxo

PS Off to coffee this arvo!

All together now...

2006-01-08T16:51:00.000+11:00

This morning we had our town's annual Combined Churches Service in the Recreation Centre. It was great to have people from the Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist, Outreach Centre and Uniting Churches all worshipping together. Amen!

Oh, and in response to the Sean V Wrapping Paper question - it was Santa time - no paper, just a stocking!

Kath xo

So it's a little late...

2006-01-06T10:42:00.000+11:00

Here's a photo from Sean's first Christmas Day. Angel V Reindeer. Found out that Sean doesn't like (babyfood) Chocolate Custard - what have I bred???

I am who I am...

2005-12-12T22:13:00.000+11:00

Many of you will call me racist, and going by many definitions, I wholeheartedly agree. I believe that you have the right to leave a country if you don't agree with its laws and don't wish to participate in its culture.

In fact I believe the biggest form of racism is lack of assimilation (ref: paraphrase of Barbeluik). As far as I am concerned black, white, yellow, Middle Eastern, Asian, whatever, if you are prepared to love and respect our country and the people in it, then you are welcome here. Sure, there are some cultures/races that I like less than others, but I don't actively go out to cause them trouble. I may boycott Halal products where possible, and businesses that are obviously racist against Australians (ie signs totally in other languages, staff that ignore etc), but NEVER like this...

By now most of you would have heard about the "race riots" in Cronulla over the weekend. What you may not know is that many of the original aggressors are in fact long term residents and even citizens of Australia. What worries me is that (on BOTH sides) how can anyone who was raised (and particularly educated) in this country think that their behaviour (both the original aggressors and the rioters) is acceptable? In KINDERGARTEN you are taught "use friendly hands" - did these people skip Kindy?

How dare anyone attack innocent citizens (ie the people who just happened to be in Cronulla) let alone Ambulance Officers and Lifeguards. Australian, Middle Eastern, in this case I don't care who it was. Show some respect - if not for others, for yourselves and the Ambo's and Lifeguards.

Yes, I am proud to be racist - if you don't want to abide by this country's ethos (let alone laws) - go elsewhere - I do not welcome you or YOUR racism against Australians (whether Australian by birth or naturalisation) here.

Kath

Did anyone pray for rain?

2005-12-11T16:46:00.000+11:00

Many of you know that I have been praying for guidance and that numbers increase for Kids Friday Live. On Friday night we had the Church's Christmas event (which I had invited the kids to bring their families to). Not only did 2 sets of parents attend (ie come in the door) but HEAPS of kids and some carers (they stayed outside). Praise God!!!! Here's to the others coming inside next year (with their carers/parents).

Kath xo

He's not Baby Jesus, he's my son...

2005-12-07T18:48:00.000+11:00

It's been around 40 degrees for the past few days - thank God for aircon (seriously, he made it happen financially).

What a week Sean has had...

Yesterday when I went to collect him from care the carer said "he might be a bit sweaty - the other kids were trying to wrap him up to be "Baby Jesus"". Awww :) I knew two of the other kids which made it doubly cute.
On Sunday, he had his first swim (Gloucester pool). Surprisingly it was still worth it after the Swim-nappy, rash shirt and pants, babybanz (v.cute) and sunscreen. In true fashion my son ditched the baby banz... and I forgot the camera!
Caught him watching The Simpsons tonight...

Kath xo

The Fire's Out

2005-11-29T10:05:00.000+11:00

Last week was a bit-too-much-on-my-plate kind of week. The stress subsided after Kid's Friday Live on Friday night. It was the Christmas party, and this year it was a real success (except for a couple of cheeky (but harmless) kids). This year was a real difference to last year. We also have a praise point - one of the other girls (ladies?) from Church has offered background help on KFL nights - Praise God!!!

On the Sean front - he's 7 months old now and nearly crawling. He also smiles a lot (not like his grumpy Mum!). He listens to Vege Tales (just hope he doesn't develop a complex about eating cucumbers and tomatoes...) and likes to dance around - they grow up too fast!

Kath xo

Okay, Okay, Okay...

2005-11-26T10:49:00.000+11:00

It's been a big couple of weeks - landline/internet installed Thurs... getting stress nausea heaps... typing with Sean on knee... need super vitamins to up with it all...

The Mayflower is Pulling into Port...

2005-11-07T11:48:00.000+11:00

WE HAVE KEYS!!!! WE HAVE AIRCONDITIONING!!!! and over the next 48 hours WE (will) HAVE CARPET!!!! Yep, the Pilgrims are moving to Mayflower (yes, that's the official name of our new home)! For the cafedave readers out there, there was a piccy back a couple of weeks ago...

Don't Go Bert!!!!

2005-10-26T23:09:00.000+10:00

I just read the tragic news that Bert Newton is abdicating from Good Morning Australia. I think I need a bex and a good lie down.

Kath xo

My little Star!

2005-10-26T10:59:00.000+10:00

At last! Photo of last Tuesday's 105th Birthday Party for Grandma :)

105 Not Out...

2005-10-19T14:48:00.000+10:00

Yesterday was Ian's Grandma's 105th Birthday. We were in Sydney for the big day, which was celebrated at her nursing home in GL (God's Land - aka Sutherland Shire).

There were 2 photographers (one from the Leader, one from Wesley Misson who runs the home) and they snapped a lot of photos of Grandma, and Sean!!! The place was decked out with pink (like a Barbara Cartland convention) and we had a great time. We left just before the Line Dancers arrived...

Sincere apologies to those who we didn't catch up with - we do take bookings in advance ;)

K xo

Note to self... Don't let Pastor get a blog...

2005-10-07T10:42:00.000+10:00

Found this blog (http://www.pastor.us/) by hitting the "next blog" button on my blog...

Note to self... Don't let Pastor Peter get a blog...

On a semi-related matter - (one for Julie) my Koorong Catalogue showed that Stryper has a new album... What the?

Yay for Today!

2005-10-07T10:31:00.000+10:00

I will cheer your day up with the blonde things I did yesterday. Firstly I walked out of the house, packed the car (with Sean safely in the car) and drove off to go to Taree (an hour away) with both the front door and the wire screen door W I D E open. I then had lunch at McDonalds and thought some "jerk" was motioning rudely about my driving skills (and he looked like he was in an unmarked police vehicle). He wasn't. When I parked at the next stop I realised that I had left my drink on the roof. NOT a good day... today is already better...

Kath :)

The "Real" Grand Final etc

2005-10-05T12:54:00.000+10:00

Firstly, congratulations to the Wests Tigers for the win over the weekend. You will have some Dragons breathing down your back next season. Speaking of my beloved Dragons - they WON the Jersey Flegg (under 21's) grand final against Parramatta. Well done boys!!!

Our Bible Study group is studying a series on "Decisions" and it has got me thinking (we're up to study 6, so I'm a bit slow on the uptake) about how little we (okay I) rely on God's guidance for my everyday decisions. I don't mean "Lord, should I wear jeans or a skirt today" etc but decisions like "how should I spend my time/finances" and the not so big stuff... food for thought - and action.

K :)

Anyone for a party?

2005-09-30T12:55:00.000+10:00

It seems that in the UK and US mums are opting for "parties" of people to be there for the big event. Are they mad? I was in too much pain to swear let alone know who was in the room. Apart from Ian and the medical staff I really only would have let my sister, Jen in the room, and even she opted out!

Another interesting site I saw this week was uglydress.com - not sure where I got it from, but it's very funny. The site shows many very ugly "fashion" events that should never have happened. Worth a look.

Kath xo

Dragons' change in direction...

2005-09-22T21:13:00.000+10:00

Found the above article (www.smh.com.au/news/league) today in regards to St George Illawarra's leadership over the past few years. It was interesting to see Nathan Brown (Coach) quoted as saying that he wasn't a great captain. Unfortunately I have to agree with him there, however, when you follow players such as Mark Coyne (who's only fault professionally was that he played for Queensland in State of Origin) it is hard to come up with the goods when you haven't been trained to be in that role.

I once worked for a company that didn't believe in training their non-floor (it was retail) staff (ie admin etc, without giving too much away). As a result there were a lot of low paid, low morale workers, and in the end it cost me my job. All it took was a shallow over-achiever and I was pretty much cornered into resiging.

It's like this with our Christian lives too. If we don't keep up with reading God's Word (the Bible) and keeping in contact with Him (by praying) then how can we captain the team of younger (or even new) Christians and encourage them? Just how Browny and I both didn't receive training for our jobs, may Churches (and even people) don't seem to think that you need to put any effort into your spiritial life apart from showing up on Sundays, let alone to commit themselves to a Church or Bible Study/Small Group. How would you feel if someone said to you "I really value you as a friend, but I can't be bothered going to your house or spending time with you"? Pretty shocking, yet we constantly do this to God (I am very guilty of this). Our actions tell God that we aren't interested in what He has to say, and are not interested in coming over to His house or hanging out with His other friends.

Let me challenge you this week - try your local Church (or go back to your regular Church). Why this week? It is harder to go when exciting things such as Football Finals and AFL Grand Finals are on. Ready to take the challenge? Feel free to email me if you want more info or to comment anonymously.

Kath xo

Solid Gold!

2005-09-16T10:12:00.000+10:00

Yesterday we had success with Sean and solids (he spat out the rice cereal last time, not that I blame him). Yesterday's fare was puree pear, with the addition of rice cereal in this morning's sitting. He actually grabbed the spoon when I thought he had finished...

I have been carrying a virus or something this week which has knocked me around a bit, I hope Sean doesn't catch it.

Kath xo
Reading: Peter Costello's biography, Watching: Hitch (v.good!!!), Mood: apathetic, Sleep: open to interpretation...

Blame & The Dragons...

2005-09-11T13:31:00.000+10:00

Blame... I read an interesting post on the Jews for Jesus Blog (link above). It's interesting to think of the happenings due to hurricane Katrina as somebody's "fault". I am guilty of that too. With the Aussies initially stranded there after the destruction, I said to Ian that "they (the Embassy staff high enough up the food chain) should all be fired" for not going to the aid of the Australians that were caught up in it all. Bob (JFJ blogger) brings a good point - the comms etc were all destroyed... Food for thought...

The Dragons... Last night was FANTASTIC - GO THE DRAGONS. I hereby officially apoligise to Nathan Brown for my lack of faith in him and the team earlier in the season. Even if you get this far Browny, you have succeeded!!! To the powers that be at the St George Illawarra RLFC - SIGN HIM UP FOR AT LEAST ANOTHER 3 SEASONS!!!!

Kath xo

Whinging... and the KKK

2005-09-06T22:45:00.000+10:00

I have had so much to whinge about lately... everything from sexist pigs at church (there are two men who unfortunately I have absolutely no respect for, to the point of not being able to shake one of their hands on Sunday morning because he makes me so sick) to not being able to order my Ikea catalogue online - maybe 'cos I'm not a 'dr' ;) ...

Last night I saw something on Andrew Denton's Enough Rope that gave me a peace that I haven't had for a very long time. Denton had a guest named Johnny Lee Clary - an ex-KKK leader who has turned to Christ and is now preaching the Word, and helping bring a lot of people to Christ. You can get transcripts off the ABC (Channel 2, Sydney) website, and Johnny has a website too (johnnyleeclary.com). There have been a few things I have struggled with over the years, particularly in relation to a certain racial/religious group, that Johnny put in a new perspective...

Kath :)

The New 'Today' Show Weather Guy?

2005-08-25T17:15:00.000+10:00

This morning the Today Show (Ch 9) presented its weather segments from Gloucester. Here's a photo of Sean with Steve Jacobs (and me !?!).

Kath :)

2005-08-22T16:34:00.000+10:00

GO THE DRAGONS!!!! Well, the Dragons' (St George Illawarra) form has certainly been something to write home about. With their 25-22 point victory over the Eels yesterday at Kogarah (Oki Jubilee Stadium) no one could slam them. Even 2GB (we were listening to the game on the radio on the way home from Sydney (yes, we drove past the oval on the way)) played an "ode" to them... They are no 3 in the Rugby League top 8 at the moment.

This has got me thinking. To be more exact, it has got me thinking about the loss of faith many of us Dragons supporters have had over the past few years. With 3 coaches in 5 years and the last great captain was Mark Coyne (sorry Brownie, but it's true) back in the late 90's. Is it really the coach or captain's fault exclusively when a team fails to deliver? I must admit I now think not. In the absence of true leadership the followers will stray.

This is the issue that has been brought up in the media over the past week in relation the the Wallabies (Rugby Union for those who don't know).

Your thoughts?

Kath :)

RIP Barbie?

2005-08-16T14:24:00.000+10:00

I noticed an article in the Sydney Morning Herald (www.smh.com.au) that shows the loss in popularity that Barbie is facing. Her competition? Bratz Dolls. Yes, dolls that are like evil teenage versions of Barbie. How do I know this (apart from the article). I have been know to purchase them in recent years for my niece. In fact, as we speak, I have some Bratz paraphanalia on layby at Kmart!

So what is the appeal of Bratz over Barbie? In my honest opinion, there is only one. Bratz dolls are a little more realistic in the physical department. I am a Barbie girl from way back (although I only had Sindy dolls when I was little - Jen got the Barbies...). Barbie is elegant, stylish, rides a Harley (but you shell out the bikkies for these) and has nicer looking stuff than Bratz dolls.

Feedback???

Kath xo

It's all in a day's work...

2005-08-14T21:20:00.000+10:00

Firstly.... GO THE DRAGONS!!!! I have no sympathy for any Bronco's fans out there - see you in the finals!!! The photo on the left is Sean (taken about a month ago) - see, even a child could predict the fantastic victory!!! ;)

On Friday I went back to work - it's just a day per fortnight in the local school office, but it was enjoyable. Sean went to Tina's (his family day-care person) and I went off to work. By about 9.30 I had adjusted to the separation anxiety...

We'll see how it all goes - Sean seemed to enjoy himself, he slept most of the time!!!

Kath xo

Speed-Hump Day...

2005-08-10T17:52:00.000+10:00

Well, the title says it all... It's Wednesday, and the middle of the week. The week started off well, in Sydney infact. I started Monday morning with a trip to the MECCA of the South (ie God's Land (GL for short)), Miranda Fair. Guess what? They have a KRISPY KREME stall there!!!! YUM!!! I managed to resist (just) but will definately visit on my next trip to GL.

Yesterday I was at home all day, today at a Creative Memories Workshop...

Kath xo
Reading: not much, attempting Sue Townsend's Public Confessions of a Middle Aged Woman (thanks Andrea)
Watching: The Bill, the office (series 1) Washing: 4 loads yesterday

Up and Down...

2005-08-04T17:35:00.000+10:00

This week and a bit is a bit of a mixed bag... The anniversary of my friend Paul's death and funeral, and the anniversary of finding out that I was having Sean. I keep hovering emotionally thinking about Paul, and how Sean never met his "Uncle". That's not to discount all Sean's other Uncles and Aunties (biological or otherwise), but Paul's passing somehow seems to hit me harder. Sometimes I think it's because I live so far away from the others (ie our mutual group of friends from Sydney) and don't "live" with Paul not being there... other times I think I am lucky because there are less constant reminders here...

Kath xo

PS There is a Smithy calendar this month on thebill.com - yay (even though it's not as good as the last one)!!!

Blatantly Political

2005-07-27T16:46:00.000+10:00

I just read on smh.com.au that Bob Carr has quit!!! I am not normally this blatantly political in my blog, but I am THRILLED!!!! What a pitty that there doesn't seem to be anyone on either side of politics in NSW that would be good enough to be premier.

In honour of my least-favourite politician, lets suggest my top-5 (light-hearted) possible replacements...

1) The Wiggles - they get kids off their backsides and into action...
2) Terri (Georgie Parker's character in All Saints) - can keep a hospital in check...
3) Alf Stewart - makes Summer Bay a respectable place to live...
4) Rove... punctuates the laughing stock that the hospital system is thanks to Bob Carr
5) Merrick Watts... oops, that was serious...

... or add your own...

Kath :)

Any Volunteers?

2005-07-19T17:02:00.000+10:00

I was at the Visitor's (Tourist Information) Centre today (to collect something from someone who works there) and there was a guy asking directions to (I hope I have this right) Pigna Barney Road. Wendy (the Tourist Info person on duty) didn't know where it was and was about to send him out to Pigna Barney Creek (?) until I politely interrupted and said that it was in the new estate where we're building. Turns out that the Council (and I assume RTA) are relying on the Real Estate Agents to be able to put a map together. Wendy nearly sent this guy 30km's out of the way - and he was here to deliver windows!

As I was leaving Wendy asked if I would like to volunteer at the Visitor's Centre. I politely declined (I have enough on my plate). This actually brings me to an interesting point (finally!). Do most Australians participate (ie volunteer) in serving the community? I would be interested to hear feedback on this, (particularly for unusual services) as I heard back in "Year of the Volunteer" (2003/2004?) that it is in rapid decline.

For all you Sean-watchers out there, he's doing well, kicking lots and making very cute "goo-goo" sounds.

Kath xo

It's been a while...

2005-07-16T18:09:00.000+10:00

Literally. These days I could fill a lot of blog space with Sean's milestones, accomplishments, cute moments etc, but that's not really what makes an interesting blog (unless you are in an online parent's group, or you are the grandparents, aunties and uncles reading).

Today I went out without Sean. No, I didn't forget him, he spent the day with Ian. I actually got to shop with ease (and I bought shoes) - something I have forgotten over the last 3 months.

The other subject I could fill a blog with these days is our new house. It's up to the frame and truss stage, and the bricks have been delivered. Hopefully we will be in by Christmas (this year).

Kath :)

Dein Perry, not Liberace!

2005-06-30T11:46:00.000+10:00

I was feeding Sean (10 weeks old) while watching Bert (Bert Newton, Good Morning Australia). The end band (ejazz?) played Copacabana. Sean DANCED to it (well, waved his legs and arms, and even "rejected" me while doing so)!!! I would never have pegged Sean as a Barry Manilow fan. I have only played him Colin Buchanan and Nina Simone...

I hope he is a Tap Dog when he grows up and not a caberet singer (I couldn't keep up with the sequin sewing!).

Kath :)

Never Assume...

2005-06-29T12:40:00.000+10:00

Some of you already know that I am proudly involved with CWA (Country Women's Association - Gloucester Evening Branch). Although I pretty much refuse to bake scones and knit/crochet hideous coathangers etc I do contribute other ways (eg cooking for catering gigs, letting octogenarians fuss over my son while the under 80's run the show).

Anyway, today I had to approach head office (which is in Potts Point (Kings Cross) - go figure...) for a logo for new (thanks Kath & Rhonda) name badges. Imagine my (pleasant) shock when I was put through to a woman that sounded like she was under 50. Double the effect when she said "Sure Kathryn, can I email that to you?". Trifecta when it was the right thing in a readable format!

Maybe it's time to shed the archaic blue-rinse image that my Auntie Beryl etched into my mind!

Kath xo

It's the Strangest Thing...

2005-06-28T21:23:00.000+10:00

I was channel flicking whilst feeding Sean today and saw Elmo on the TV (you know, the very cute red guy). Guess what? He's Left Handed! Cool! I'm right handed but my Dad, Sister, Husband and Mother-In-Law are all converted left handers (relics from the bad-0ld-days). I never thought I would be so fascinated by the "handedness" of a puppet!

Still here!

2005-06-22T16:45:00.000+10:00

Well I am still here - just haven't had anything interesting to blog about (that I am able to blog about) that doesn't involve baby-baby-baby talk lately.

There is good news though - my sister Jen has got a permanent teaching job, but it's out at Walgett (over 600kms from Sydney). She moved there over the long weekend. She's teaching there until the end of the year and I think she then gets moved to another school (hopefully closer to Sydney or Gloucester!).

Anyway, until I get the hang of "flickr" that's about it for the moment...

Kath xo

PS Feel free to email/comment me suggestions of topics you want me to nag on about if you really want a challenge!

PPS Sean now smiles at us - really cool!!! Can you believe he's 9 weeks old already?

How well do you know your FRIENDS?

2005-06-13T17:38:00.000+10:00

No, I'm not talking Rachel, Ross, Monica etc, but your actual friends. I received an email today which was all about that. You may have seen it before (or I may have forwarded it to you - don't be offended if I didn't - 'it ain't personal'). Here are the first 5 questions with my answers...

1. What time did you get up this morning? 8.25am
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
3. The last film you saw at the cinema? Meet the Fockers/The Bourne Supremecy (Can't remember which)
4. What is your favourite TV show? THE BILL
5. What did you have for breakfast? Mushrooms on toast

It made me think, how much do we really know about our friends. No, I'm not out to be nosy, or live in people's pockets, but if you know (or think you know) somebody well, think about how much you really know about them.

Most of you who know me will know that The Bill is my favourite show (although Alex, you will have to squeeze out more tears if they are going to even think about giving "Smithy" a BAFTA), but did you know that my favourite food is Indian, or that my childhood favourite toy was Rabbit Ears...

Food for thought...

Kath xo

A New Life?

2005-05-30T15:56:00.000+10:00

Yes, I am still alive! It's been a hectic week (most of it seems to be spent feeding Sean) but I thank God for the good times I have had with friends and family. This last week I have (due to my 30th Birthday) had a lot of chats with people over the phone and some time with friends and family (mostly not B'day connected). It was great having my sister Jen here for a few days, and meeting up with Kel & Dave for lunch. What was also good was a couple of my Gloucester friends taking me to coffee at Perenti (a fantastic coffee mecca in Gloucester) for my big day. To top it off, my cousin Janelle just called me, which was cool as we are both as slack as each other in the communication stakes!

Today we had Sean's 6 week check up at the Community Health Centre. All is good - he's putting on weight (thankfully he's meant to!) and is fairly happy at the moment. Mummy is doing well too - they get you to fill in a questionaire which essentially checks if you are suffering PND (post-natal depression). The good news is that they don't make you do this test while child is screaming at 3am!

Okay, so not the most interesting blog, but it just about sums up my "new life".

Kath xo

Good Times, and not so Good Times

2005-05-20T16:43:00.000+10:00

My husband has brought up the point that it has been a while since I have blogged (mind you, he doesn't have a blog, so he has to rely on mine). As usual, a lot has happened since my last entry...

Last weekend was a biggy. We went to Sydney to see our friends, and go to a 30th, a 21st (the same night), and mine/Ian's/Sean's combined 30th (me), 5th Wedding Anniversary (for the benefit of our new/re-acquainted friends) and meet Sean. Sunday night we gathered with a few friends and scattered our friend Paul's ashes (see entries from July/August 04) at Eleoura Beach (Cronulla).

Out of all the hectic-ness of the weekend, it was Paul's little memorial that made us stand still. As the 23rd Psalm says "He (God) leads me beside quiet waters". Well, the waters weren't still (silly me practically walked into the ocean with jeans and boots on) but we had a sense of peace knowing that Paul is in God's presence for Eternity (ie Heaven). Paul, we may be moving on, but we will forever miss you.

On a brighter note, Sean has discovered that he can rub his eyes with his hands, and he gives me death-stares when I try to put mittens, hats or anything warm (apart from his blankie) on him.

K xo

Mother's Day / Unusual Ministries

2005-05-09T11:25:00.000+10:00

Mother's Day
Yesterday was my first Mother's Day, and Sean, Ian and even Uncle Bob & Auntie Lesley came up trumps for me! All of the above sent cards (my uncle and aunt sent a new mum card) and Sean gave (well let Mummy shop) me a new top (wearing it to Greek Yum Cha next week, hopefully). Thank you also to those who sent me text messages - it gave me a smile or two!!!

I spent the day at Wauchope (pron War-hope) visiting Ian's family (even though Ian was at a conference in Orange), and Sean was an angel - he loves the car trip!?!

Unusual Ministries
On the way to Wauchope I was listening to a technology programme on the radio and there was an interview with a guy (in Brisbane?) who runs LanJam (www.lanjam.net if the link doesn't work) which is an outreach to the local youth. It's run in a Church hall on an occasional basis, and people come from far and wide to play computer games there. There is no alcohol, drugs etc but this hasn't hindered its popularity.

If anyone has any unusual (existing or previously existing) ministries that they know of let me know via comments and I will put the best ones (okay the ones that make me cry (happy tears) or laugh the most) on a new blog entry...

Kath xo