Life with the five

Conehead hat

2012-01-15T01:07:00.000-08:00

Since I have been having some trouble in releasing my overall pattern (actually its not even ready for testing) I hope that this hat will do for now. I am sure this could be made to any size by adding (or subtracting) increase rounds/sections.

9mm hook with super bulky yarn
Note: Join with slip stitch at end of each round and start with ch2 in each round

Start with 4 ch
Work 6hdc into first ch made,
Join with ss, start each round with ch2,
2hdc into each st,
Work hdc in each st
2hdc in first st, hdc in next til end round
Work hdc in each st for 2 rounds
2hdc, hdc in next two st til end round
Work hdc in each st for 3 rounds

2hdc, hdc in next 3 sts til end round

Work one round of hdc

2hdc, hdc in next 4 sts til end round

Increase so there is sts divised by 4 (eg. 10x4 = 40sts in total)

Work one round of hdc

Work 2-4 rounds for band alternating 2 front post and 2 back stitches. (ie. 2fphdc, 2bphdc til end round) You could do dc stitches if you prefer.

Please respect my work and not sell this pattern. Feel free to do what you will with items made from the pattern.
mychildrensmother on Ravelry.

Roadtrip - the Victorian coast

2012-01-10T00:04:00.001-08:00

Victorian coast

Photos by my 8 year old son, when we went to Apollo Bay stopping a few places along the Great Ocean Rd, this is at the Round the Twist lighthouse. We have been doing a few daytrips most recently which I always enjoy and the kids like as long as there is plenty of food and fun places to visit. I took pics too with my own camera just not at the lighthouse - I was able to set up my Eye-fi card which is cool as I can have my photos on the tablet and the notebook. Its meant to share on FB but doesn't. I found it shares my photos taken on the tablet (and even uploads these to the notebook which I find amusing) but not the ones taken with my camera. Not sure how that works!

Thoughts on vaccines

2012-01-04T04:52:00.000-08:00

This is not really tongue in cheek, regardless of the way I portray myself as not trusting vaccines, but I am still curious.

So the people who are too sick or weak to get vaccinated are? And are those people, breeding grounds too like that some say my children are? Are my non vaccinated kids making my vaccinated kids sick?

My 6yo is still alive, he has more than survived, that is, he has not had a so called vaccine preventable disease despite him never been vaccinated. So I assume he has not passed on any diseases unless he is just a carrier which just doesn't makes sense to me.

This makes me wonder if it matters that the risk of my children getting any of these diseases that vaccines are meant to prevent is important. If the risk in my area is low and my kids are not in childcare and that children over 5 are not at risk as much and then a child who is breastfed is also protected, not to mention other factors that means our risk is low....? And even if the risk was high, is it fair for the individual family to make that judgement and choice and not the Government and medical profession?

So why vaccinate? In theory to potentially protect other children? Because other children are more important than my worries for my own children. And not to mention my 8yo is not well enough to get any more vaccinations due to what happened to him 7 years ago. I am still worried that could happen to my younger children and why should I risk that?

My eldest child is fully vaccinated for her age, yet she still has had far less needles than what most one year olds have been given these days. She was given breastmilk during each needle except at 12 and 18mths and 4 years since I was no longer breastfeeding at that stage. She was vaccinated by the early childhood nurse .Except for her 4yo needle which I organised because she was enrolling in school and I was not informed I could decline. It was just the done thing right? She yelled and screamed and cried and though embarrassing maybe she was right to fight it. I feel guilty for it. My eldest son was vaccinated at the council building which was just awful, the feeling I got when I took him for his one year of age should have stopped me that day. Children lining up to get their free stabs. Its cringeworthy the more I think about it. I was not informed I could decline. Just do it cos the Government would not offer it it was that risky. I feel guilty for it.

I was so undecided about vaccines for a while but decided to delay with Av and now he is over 6 and I am less undecided I guess. Two more sons and the youngest is 7months. My two youngest are still breastfed and I feel more comfortable about not vaccinating. I declined and refused to sign when I had Av saying I will delay til I feel more comfortable and then again with my 4th child. When I had my 4th child, the nurse seemed to be more convinced by what I was saying rather than what was in her book about convincing parents to vaccinate. She told me in an indirect way that I could take the vaccine pages out of the book as they would be useless to us. She gave up by the time I had my 5th and didn't even ask about vaccines. The woman is so stubborn, she even forgoes the medical profession and births on her own...sovereignty anyone?. Rights and responsibilities need to go hand in hand, support for people to choose for themselves would be nice though.

Maybe I am tempting the idea of someone convincing me to vaccinate but its yet to happen, there is no sense in their argument or logic to my sensibilities. I respect it makes sense to others but not to me. Maybe if ignorance was bliss then life would be easier. But alas ignorance is not.

Grade 6 graduation

2011-12-26T14:17:00.001-08:00

After 7 years at school, plus Kinder, my daughter still wants to do more. This is the one who was asking to go to school at 16 months and thought carrying a backpack meant she ws ready. My boys were not so keen to go to school though now my 8 year old loves school though for a different reason. My girl is very social though she tells me she is the quiet one in the corner at school. I find this hard to believe as she is outgoing and has no problems talking to people or interracting and is looking forward to being in the high school play and doing debates and public speaking. I see she is more like her Dad in some ways but quiet like me but only when it suits her! As a toddler she would even go and talk to strangers but she never ran off to do it. My eldest son is going into grade 4 next year and he is very much into the academic aspect of school rather than the social one. He is not fussed if he has friends and just wants to learn. I find it interesting they both have plans for the future, its not something I thought much about at their age apart from just wanted to be older. Their reports were fair. I understand its not in the interest of the school to be that honest in the reports, they want to be kids in with their age groups even if they are ready for harder work. For example, my son loves maths and knows a lot that hasn't been taught at school so its just revision for him. He excelled at reading and writing this year and he was tested as reading at the 15 year old level which is just about on par with his sister who reads at a 14.7 year old level. I must say though, if they want to attend school, I am glad it was the primary school they are at. It is a state school with enough funding so we never have to worry about fundraising, its an open learning school which basically means there are no real classrooms and my daughter this year was in the Independent Learning Program which was set up for the students who were ready for working on their own. She was also in the SRC which shows her leadership skill. In saying that, my 6yo is not keen on school, he is so free and not ready to be moulded I guess you could say. My girl is excited about starting year 7 at the high school next to the primary school so its not going to be too different, just a new building with new teachers. She knows some of the older students and her best friend will be in year 8 so I try not to worry! The campus is year 7-9 so is not a huge school, probably not much bigger than the primary school so I m happy about that. Still very nervous,, its probably my memories of my schooling that makes me feel that way.

It was amazing to see my daughter graduate primary school, it was made very special and I am glad the school put so much effort in to the event.

Christmas day was spent with family and the kids were as always spoiled with gifts, of course getting what they really wanted from their parents, which is a real joy when you hear "Thankyou Mum" and "Merry Christmas, you are the best" "When I am dead, I will still remember you" (N) and "159 points"(A). Oh yeah! So I guess the stress is worth it. Not a huge fan of Christmas for the consumerist event it has become, with its confused Christian/Pagan view on it. I just think its hard to remember what its all about when it seems all about the gifts these days.

So as the yeaar 2011 comes to an end I am grateful for my family, my husband and my children especially as they have been always there, we love to spend time together, hope that never ends through all the stages we go through. I so enjoy the learning and growth of each child, each stage, each dynamic, its amazing to me.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T20:40:00.001-08:00

The five

2011-12-13T00:09:00.001-08:00

A fortnight before Christmas

2011-12-11T23:15:00.001-08:00

Its coming towards the end of 2011, where did the year go?

My blog doesn't like me so I have not been keeping up at all. Some tasks are difficult on the tablet but I don't have a PC to use atm. I could use my daughter's computer or even her netbook but they are so slow! I feel spoiled with this new technology. I find t interesting that I have almost 10 things (Kindle, tablet, media player, netbook and a few christmas presents!) hooked up to wi-fi but I don't have a PC that I can use...without giving up cos its useless! My PC actually fell asleep and doesn't want to wake up, maybe due to a cpu issue.

My daughter starts high school next year and to be honest I m very nervous about the prospect, I rather she stay home and skip the whole social awkwardness of high school but she is not me and she loves school and her prime reason for attending is to be with her friends.

Christmas is almost upon us, Av has been asking how many days - he can only count to 12, which is interesting as J can count to 10. Av didn't really count or talk til 4 so he is busy learning dfferent things.

N is getting very much into technology and he is not a little boy anymore. Still very much a reserved person, he enjoys reading and dreaming about tech products he could invent or own.

Bub is 7 months today, crawls around the house, loves to pull himself up to stand, getting into mischif and mouthing anything he can reach. He likes food and I am trying to keep him on just organic fruit and veg but he is so wanting to eat it all.

Hopefully I can work out the best way to add photos. I have been creating, a few Christmas things and slowly working on other projects.

The Greater Good

2011-11-09T23:05:00.001-08:00

▶ THE GREATER GOOD on Vimeo: Couch Mode

I had tears watching this. Its been over 7 years since my little boy reacted to a series of vaccinations 2 days before 1 year of age.

Melbourne Aquarium

2011-11-08T05:54:00.001-08:00

A day out with my Mum and my children at the Melbourne Aquarium on my mother`s birthday.

Crawling baby

2011-11-06T17:12:00.000-08:00

We have settled okay into our new home and though its far from perfect we can make do.  Day has been crawling and getting around the place. A typical day sees him crawl/play/discover, feed, sleep and repeat. He is 6 months in about 5 days and I amazeId at his character  that is shining through. He smiles, laughs, giggles and enjoys being tactile as well as all those wonderful things most babies do. He also cries which surprises some people as he is so calm and easy going.<br /

I am working on a new pattern which I hope I can release as my first paid pattern.<br />
Its crochet shortalls for babies.<br />

I have been enjoying  steep learning curve with new technology. I have a Asus transformer. I bought it primarily to use while knitting/crocheting as I heard people usingiPad for that purpose. After much research I thought the TF101 was the best option. I am quite happy with it though having not ever owned an android phone or tablet its all news to me. One thing that I can't do is edit photos ie. rearange or drag photos into my project pages on Ravelry.  Yesterday I discovered Ballero, Ravulous as well as County Plus which can be synced with Ravelry which is great. I really like the ease of Ballero and it has a local yarn store locator which I imagine would be useful with a phone especially.

Interview with J

2011-09-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

We moved house last weekend without too hassle. The new house isn't too bad, the lounge room is tiny and the house is small but we will manage.

J turned 3 the week before on the 21st September.

He has really started to talk now. Here is an interview I did with him today. Chuggington is a common answer since he is kind of obsessed with that show. Towards the end he got bored but he loved the attention. My bigger boys also wanted an interview so will get to that too.

My favorurite food -cheese
My favourite sport -chugging
My favourite tv show- mama need chuggington
The coollest person -chugging
My favourite thing to learn- chug chug
If I could go anywhere in the World- eshop
My favourite colour- lellow
What to do when I grow up-eshop
My favourite song- rocknroll
Favourite book- chug
Me in 3 words -erp mtambo chug please
When I was little I liked- movie
My favourite season -mummy shop
Favourite thing to do- bout laughing you cake
Favourite snack- Brewster eat it
My best friend -no mummy no mummy (hugs biggest brother)
My wish- yep yes best smoker

Interview with Av ( desperate for a turn at answering questions then bored halfway through)
My favorurite food - pizza
My favourite sport - Karate
My favourite tv show- Transformers
The coollest person - Justin Beaver
My favourite thing to learn-Karate
If I could go anywhere in the World-Transformers land
My favourite colour- blue
What to do when I grow up- be a person who could make dress costumes
My favourite song-I don't really have a favourite song
Favourite book- mm ahh I'm ..I don't have a favourite whatever you said.
Me in 3 words -
When I was little I liked-
My favourite season -
Favourite thing to do-
Favourite snack-
My best friend -
My wish-

Interview with N (currently reading about music and loves the maths involved, smarter than me)
My favorurite food - chippies
My favourite sport - basketball
My favourite tv show-That 70s show
The coolest person - Albert Eintein
My favourite thing to learn- Science
If I could go anywhere in the World-(stated our new address in full including the World, Universe)
My favourite colour- aqua
What to do when I grow up- build a house
My favourite song- Neumes - its an ancient song
Favourite book- I read all books
Me in 3 words- clever, clever and clever. There should be a comma (edited!)
When I was little I liked- sucking on my mother's shoulder
My favourite season -Super Winter
Favourite thing to do- read one chapter book in a day which is really easy
Favourite snack-fruit
My best friend- Unknown :)
My wish-Don't have one.
My favourite memory- Seeing my brother being born.

things I know (about J)

2011-09-12T18:24:00.000-07:00

yayforhome

Joining on this as I have been meaning to write about my toddler in particular because time just flies and I have a memory like a sieve. Which of course is why I take so many photos, even of the most mundane things my kids do. Would love to talk about all my kids but if I concentrate on one at a time it makes for better quality time to provide the best answers :). Interestingly someone stated you can't have quality time without the quantity. A little like how practice makes perfect, you can't know someone without spending some time with them.

Anyway, my son is almost 3, in a week actually.

The things I know about J

He "needs" things. Most things he says a preceded by "Need (wee, Chuggington, drink, bood, hug etc)"
He has beautiful eyes that are most like the colour hazel. He was born with blue eyes that slowly changed over time.
He was slow to speak but his vocabulary is becoming impressive day to day.
His words often cut off the first sound eg. car is 'ar

He has started calling his brother "Rammy". He calls baby brother by his full name or "Baby Born" though he has recently dropped the 'born'. He often asks "Where Baby doe (go)?" if he can't see him. He adores his brothers and sister even if they do upset and annoy each other too. He calls his sis "Alah" and his older brother by his shortened name - actually said his name first out of all the siblings.
He does not say his own name.
Usually responds to questions with a "NO!" or a "Yes" if it sounds favourable!
His favourite tv shows are "The Hive" "Chuggington" and "Roary". He can find the latter two if his Dad has youtube on.
Refuses to wear my knitteds anymore.
Likes to wear nothing or at least no pants. This is normal for that age I assume. He can dress and undress and sometimes he wears his clothes inside out or back to front and will try wearing clothes that are too big ie. he will grab whatever he can find so it may be girl size 14 or big boys sizes.
His mean tantrums often end with him asking Mama for a hug.
His favourite toys usually have wheels, he likes cars, trains and trucks. Also Lego and likes to join in games with his brothers or hang out with his sister. He likes to pick up baby and wishes he wasn't so "big, hebby (heavy)"
He loves his sleep and food. He is a big healthy boy. He often eats and drinks and naps whenever he needs to.

I love him so much, life just would not be the same without him. He was freebirthed, now free schooling, he has to be free thinking which I appreciate as hard as it can be as a parent at times.

Limbo

2011-09-07T23:51:00.000-07:00

In limbo, life is. In this incredibly cold Winter, we have had no gas heating, relying on cheap heaters to keep warm, no mean feat in this house in Melbourne. Its sad that we didn't fight to get the heater fixed, we are really too nice. We knew the landlord wouldn't want to fix anything yet would he live here? Lack of ventilation, no smoke alarms, rising damp, the list goes on. But I refrain from ranting too much. He has plans to demolish so we are moving out. The house he started to build in the backyard is basically a concrete slab with tubing for plumbing purposes.

Only recently did we get our youngest son's birth certificate, he is almost 4 months. We literally have no money to move. But it seems we do have a house to move into. Its nearby and okay though small. A good reason to minimise our lives even further. That does interest me but my daughter did say "Stop making wool stuff! You would have more room" That is definitely my addiction. But I can't say I have stash. What would I do if I didn't make too much for my babies and even myself? At least my joy continues when others get use out of what I make too.

Tama pattern is great. I have made a few of these I think though modified as it wasn't designed for babies. I love them as they are easy on/off unlike cardigans.

I have won a few KALs on Ravelry which is a bonus as I just enjoy being involved. The patterns I have received only encourage me to knit more. :)

My almost 6 year old is an appreciator of what I make. He adored the neckwarmer I made just because so he claimed it. Also found a somewhat unattractive sweater I made for my daughter years ago and he has been wearing it every day. I love that.

I have been teaching my daughter's class to crochet a granny square. It is hard work and requires patience but there is some success. I think they are more excited about a baby at school. They were taken aback about him feeding not from a bottle but from his Mama. That is unfortunate that society has taught our children that babies are fed with a bottle. I know and respect that some are but most babies at least have a drop of the good stuff.

Smiling bubby boy.


One of 4 skirts I crocheted for my girl.

Newborn 2 button vest pattern

2011-08-17T21:05:00.000-07:00

Its been a while, busy with 5 but still knitting and crocheting (something I figured out how to do while feeding). Too much going on including a notice to vacate so more about that later. In the meantime a simple knit vest pattern.

On 4.5mm needle with 8ply or light worsted should make a 0-3mth size.

co 50. Knit flat
k8, pm, k10, pm, k14, pm, k10, pm, k8
Knit 15 rows, kfab before and after markers in next and every other row.
Buttonhole (yo, ktog) worked in row 3
Cast off between markers for armholes/shoulder.
Make buttonhole and cast on 6 for the underarms.
Option 1 - join after 3 rows garter, inc 8sts, ss. Could include eyelet row. Or make cable in middle - in bulky the owl cable looks great.
Option 2 - Continue in garter st til length desired
Option 3 - Open vest with ‘window’ to embellish.22 sts fronts garter, 26sts back ss

Basic instructions that I hope are clear enough, let me know. Available only for personal use and not profit.

Not perfect

2011-07-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

Been kinda busy with 5 children and one being dependent on me. I am not perfect, just like life and my country. I know Australia is not perfect, plenty of problems, which country is perfect? But I do love where I live. I have no interest in going eleswhere to be honest but that has more to with my distrust of planes staying in the air while I am on it. Anyway, I have found a video that sort of sums up how I feel about my country of birth. "Not Perfect" by Tim Minchin.

I am not perfect but I am very happy in my life. I am living by instinct but still with a desire to learn and grow. I swing between being extremist in my views then I read something or experience hardship then I relax and figure we can only do the best with what we have. Its all a journey that does not start with perfection, its all practice even to the end.
Big kids are enjoying the school holidays though my daughter is very keen to get back to school as she has been invited to participate in the Independent Learning Program. Basically she will be responsible for her own learning and choose most of the topics to research. Maybe like unschooling but she can use the resources at school. I am happy for her.

J is talking more and more each day. Using pictures and him repeating the words has been helpful. He reads along with Av and Dad.
Day is 2 months old now. He likes cuddles so he is mostly in arms. There is some help with N being very much into just coming by and taking him from my arms. All the kids are helpful at times and so I am coping with a full house at this time. I am not keen on any more children, I am very happy with the five. I am happy that the 4 boys and girl I always thought I would have became a reality.

Just a few photos of my smallest boy who likes cuddles, breastmilk (though he often brings it up), babywearing, co-sleeping and looking at Mama and sometimes smiling. He is grown more in the past 4 weeks than in the previous. He is now close to 6kgs. He enjoys nappy free tummy time, may think about EC soon.

The birth of D

2011-05-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

I always know when I am pregnant. I didn't bother getting a pregnancy test but I guess I was in denial or maybe I was protecting myself from a possible loss. At 6 weeks I started to get severe nausea. The morning sickness was horrendous. I was basically bedridden for 6 weeks, could barely eat or drink and I felt useless and depressed. Thankfully my husband and daughter were fantastic during this period. The house didn't completely fall apart without me. The nausea continued til about 21 weeks as it slowly became less debilitating. Nausea still continued to rear its ugly head but not so violently. Its worth noting I rarely vomit and having nausea without relief really took it out of me.
At about 28 weeks I started to experience pre labour. I felt tightenings and expansions mostly in my pelvis irregularly over the last 10 weeks or so of the pregnancy. I did consider that I may go early this time but I didn't.

My estimated due date came and went on 8th May - Mothers Day. Baby was very low in the pelvis, I never had much back or rib pain and for this I was glad as I enjoyed the movement and I was still active and going out with my family til the night of 10th May. This is when I had loss of bloody mucous plug - I had been losing a lot of mucous but this blood was long awaited. I was excited but nothing was happening so tried to rest.

For 2 hours I was restless and decided I would like to use the pool. I was feeling unsure at this point. I couldn't really feel much but pressure in my pelvis. I was in the pool, it was like I needed to push but my anxiety was holding me back. It was as if my waters needed to break, I resisted. I said "This is scary" many times. I got out to go to the toilet worried I would be stuck on there and have a baby on there so hurried back. Things really slowed down. I resigned that nothing was going to happen so we went to bed. Nothing much happening til the morning of the 12th May. I had decided to give up my anxiety and accept what was to happen. I really wanted something definite to happen and for my husband to stay home but he was needed at work. I thought that if nothing happened before he went to work, it wouldn't til at least the evening.
He left for work and I started to fill the pool. I figured if nothing was going to happen I would make use of the comfort of the pool.
I filled the pool but had to empty some as it was too cold. My daughter got up for school and wondered what was happening. Nothing much was happening as my daughter came in. I wasn't worried about the big kids going to school. My daughter helped me to keep the pool warm with kettles of boiled water. It was a big job and she was so excited. I had to calm her down though. It wasn't helping being asked many times, "How long now?" "How many cms are you dilated?" etc. "Will the baby come?" "Yes, maybe next week but eventually." Finally she calmed down and I felt a sense of maturity come over her. Only 11 but what a lot to expect of her. She was kept busy with pool warming and entertaining J - mostly cuddling.
Meanwhile my husband was calling every hour or 2. I told him that the contractions (which I only felt low in my pelvis, never across my belly or back or elsewhere) were slow and steady - 10 minutes apart so I was still not sure if anything was going to happen. Maybe that night or in the following week. Maybe the pool would slow it all down which I was fine with.

He called at 4 when I made an attempt at asking him to come home then as I was sick of it all. He said he would be back soon, 5:30pm. By that stage I had sent the big boys to their room. My toddler was singing as I moaned but when the fierce contractions came I had to scream and this led him to leap into big sister's lap. I got back in the pool as a feeling of almost needing to bear down started. My daughter was sweeping and tidying up the mess on the floor that her brothers had made which I thought was great for her as I didn't want her to just sit there and watch. I know she was incredibly curious and wanted to see how I was getting bub out. When the boys heard my waters broke, they hugged each other and jumped about! Not long after I started feeling a very strong feeling in my butt (think bowling ball)- I had to scream through the contractions, this was tough. It was too late, I had to get this baby out. I was wanting to be pregnant for a while longer, I wanted to knit and do anything else. Not having a baby, but I hadn't a choice. This baby wanted out, so I pushed and the top of his head was out, oh my gosh this hurts. I felt his head, it was hard yet soft. Not something I could describe. Flexed head.
A second almighty push got the head all out. He was not yet free so I knew I had to push to get the shoulders out. It was probably quite fast and intense but at the time it may as well be in slow motion. I think when I had him on my chest the first thing I said was "Hello Hello" according to my daughter then "You hurt me, really hurt me!" Thought I'd never recover but days later I was feeling fine. The shock probably didn't help at all. After bub was born the boys came in and N couldn't stop saying "Is it real?" over and over. Av looked stunned, he just stared at D. Initially J was keeping his distance but he seemed to like "Babe Born" pointing at him and smiling.
Not long after I felt the placenta coming off the wall. I had the urge to get it out. The kids were on Dad watch and couldn't wait to show them what we (really me!) did that day! He came in the door as the placenta was birthed. It was in a weird shape (scrunched up rather than flat I remember with the others) so I was trying to guide it out very gently.

Our 5th child, forth boy was born at 5:17pm on 12th May 2011

At some stage I was telling the kids to take pics but they were struggling so the first pics are weird! This photo by me.

Hubby asked if we should keep bub attached so D was lotus born on 15th May at 10:30am.

D's birth announcement

2011-05-14T00:36:00.000-07:00

My youngest child was born on 12th May 2011. It was quite an eventful birth but details will have to wait. Our little boy is wonderful and is very spoiled with the love of 6

My big boy is 8

2011-04-28T23:43:00.000-07:00

My boy is 8 now. I love what he wanted for his birthday, new clothes and lunch at the vegan cafe GloHealth. He is my least demanding child, always grateful for what he receives, still quite sensitive and thoughtful. Its amazing how different all my children are and I appreciate all their qualities.

See my boys. My younger boys seem to be more rough and like to wrestle, and to do more things together. They have been bonding more lately which is always a joy to see as a parent.

My middle boy is now yellow belt. I was excited for him to go to his grading but then on the day I had pre labour that seriously stopped me in my tracks. This pregnancy has left me clueless or maybe its just teaching me how unpredictable life and birth can be.

The holidays were fun though we didn't do too much in the first part. Easter was a non event as we were most excited about celebrating my son's birthday.

I have been knitting a little.
A vest for my youngest son.

Bonnet in red llama yarn.
After preparing the tallboy I realise that I went overboard creating for the little one. What's new. So I am trying to make non newborn stuff now.

Knitted crane for Japan.

Hotshot for bub in Summer, knitted in cotton fleece.

Double stranded Versa with star buttons from the Bird and the Fish.

Now I am slowly but surely getting organised for the birth of our fifth child, I am feeling fine and I am just enjoying the last days (I don't think it will be more than a month but in May) of the family dynamic as it is.

Av has learned the alphabet, knows all the letters and can write the capitals and lower case. He can count to ten and extended himself to add small numbers together. He can also count to Japanese to ten. This is what he wanted to learn for himself.
Meanwhile J has been picking up a few new words and saying them more clearly than he has older words. We are having a townhouse being built in the backyard which is interesting to see happen on a weekly basis. J says "House" and "Dirt"

Achievements

2011-04-04T20:52:00.000-07:00

"I am schooling myself without a teacher. "

Av said this to me and what a great way to demonstrate unschooling is working very well for us. He is enjoying writing out letters and copying words from books. He can now write out his full first name. I have not sat him down and taught him on purpose! He just started wanting to write and recognise letters, words and numbers. He has been asking lots of questions though. He asks me about letters and numbers and has an amazing interest in them, almost all of the sudden.He enjoys playing computer games and looking through our old encyclopedias. I am so grateful he is at home and I am loving the opportunity to see him learn every day. He is such a happy boy. Though I must say it is funny when we talk about homeschooling with friends they seem to think we are at home all the time and he will not get socialisation. I hate that word for a start but the good thing about homeschooling is the many opportunities to learn, grow in different places and meet people. Not just for our sons but also for myself and my family. I am anti social in many ways and yet I did go to school, so if that is what school is about, it failed in my experience.

Meanwhile he is also enjoying his Karate classes. He has his grading slip to attempt yellow belt next week. He had a practice dojo tournament and showed skill in kumite, his kata isn't so great (maybe he can blame his unco parents) but he received certificates for both and is proud of his achievements.
My big kids are doing well at school. My big boy received a bronze certificate in Mathletics which he loves to do. He has never done homework sheets in past years but his teacher has been strongly encouraging him this year and he actually does it now. I think he avoids it because its a waste of time...
My daughter received a SRC jacket and she wears it all the time and takes pride in her new responsibilities.
J is starting to use more new words. He can put on a mean tantrum but he is still fun to be with.

End of March, my husband celebrated his 35th birthday. We had a great day, with the big kids asking if they could spend time with their Dad rather than go to school. It was a great day with lunch together then just dinner with the two of us.

We celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary on 3rd April. I love my husband more and more each year. We have had some really tough times like most couples but its been as though we are seeing eye to eye more and more. We used to fight over housework and parenting. Then he conceded parenting was my domain being the primary carer (or moreso babies need their Mama in the first 5 years but Dad can still be very much involved) but now he has educated himself about the things that most people haven't even thought about or even heard of. Such as homebirth, unschooling, vaccinations, etc. I am very fortunate that he is home most of the week with his odd work roster but he has become more equal in parenting. He has been attacked over these choices more than I have - but he has chosen to be more open about them too.

Now 35 weeks and as always I have been low and compact. No rib pain or back ache, I feel quite fortunate. Nausea still rears its ugly head but I manage. Hoping that I can be organised in the next few weeks so I can really enjoy those last few weeks. Questions that I don't like to answer - How long do you have? I am sure it will be in the next 8 weeks or so....Do you know what you are having? Um, a baby.....

Craft break

2011-03-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

A pair of longie with added pocket. The longies are crocheted and the pcoket was knit so I could embellish a watermellish guitar.Yes I do like guitars.
I am currently having break from crafting, firstly because I literally have no yarn stash and have no money to buy more and secondly to focus on the pregnancy and doing a few other things I have been wanting to do. Namely, reading a few books (Red Tent and Birthing From Within), cleaning house properly (washing walls and all that fun stuff) and just enjoying my family as it is now. I am working on a latch hook rug but its slow going as its a fair size. I am very aware I wont have much time or inclination to craft for the first 6 months of being a mama to 5.

Another pair of longies. These were both made with BWM yarns and will fit bub at about 6mth I think.

A staying home dress. Its very cute, I love the idea of making dresses but don't have much reason to. My daughter is 11 and going into ladies sizes so its fun to make baby dresses even if I do get to gift it.

I do enjoy the Versa. This one I made to the 10ply pattern with 12ply yarn.

Slippers that fit J, he actually likes these.

Made a few washers, and scrubbies as they are always useful and use up cotton scraps.

So I am in my 34th week of pregnancy and its all good. Interestingly when I have prelabour I get so excited about the idea of setting up the birth pool, of going into labour and giving birth. I am looking forward to it. But at other times I am worried. I don't feel ready, even with at least a few weeks to go til I think I will be in labour, it seems its so close. This pregnancy has gone rather quickly (though when I had the severe MS it went incredibly slow) and I can see it will have an end and think maybe going to 43weeks wont be so bad. But then with J, 42 weeks felt so right so its normal to me.
Our landlord has pulled down our sheds (rather his friend did and the boys loved watching) and the carport too. Our backyard is a shambles as we wait for a skip to load it into. A temporary fence will soon be put up and we will lose our big backyard to a new townhouse the landlord is building. This is not a surprise to us as he let us know his plans before we moved in so after 2 and a half years he has begun to make a move. The silver lining is our rent has been reduced and we may move into the townhouse when its built, the garage may work as another room and we can get out of this house that sorely needs to be renovated at the least or rebuilt at best. I just wish it would happen before bub was born as I am finding it hard to nest at this stage and get much done as we have so little space. Financially we are doing it tough but we will adapt, happily we pay off the van this year and hopefully this will free us to do what we really want to do, lifestyle wise but we shall see. I almost feel trapped at this stage. At any rate, I am rambling.

My 5 year old boy received his first certificate at Karate last week. This means he is yellow tip or 9th kyu. The sensei thinks he is working well for his first grading to yellow belt. He is very excited (though initially surprised and chuffed) to be doing Karate and working towards something.

He is also enjoying copying the letters of the alphabet and random words he finds. I am glad its his choice to do this as he is learning for himself. I have only said its easier to understand computer games when you can read so maybe that is his motivation! He also enjoys basic numbers and can now count confidently to ten. He is learning the alphabet and even though most children knows these things as toddlers, his depth of understanding seems to be great. He asks lots of questions and makes some interesting conclusions and I love his freethinking ways!

We have a deal that he can go on the computer if he helps clean the loungeroom and get dressed. He used to hate cleaning up the smallest mess but now without complaint, will tidy up and even sweep. He even says "Its easy to clean!"
Its been 2 and a half years since my youngest child was born into my hands, lifted out of the water and onto my chest. I was amazed by his barrel chest and big lips, which to this day he still has. Only child of mine who didn't have breastfeeding lip (where the lip tends to get dry in the middle because of sucking) possibly because his lips are so big and they curl when he feeds. This is a wonderful thing I can do for him, feed til this age and beyond. Since I have been producing colostrum he is very interested again.

Just for remembrance sake, just moments after his birth, which took his father by surprise. It was such a quick and easy birth after experiencing FER (foetal ejection reflex), a great example of a normal physiological birth, a truly natural birth.

Summer, did it ever arrive?

2011-03-06T17:14:00.000-08:00

Its now Autumn, and I don't remember a Summer. I think we had the occasional hot day but for the most part its been cold! Even being pregnant, hasn't kept me warm.
February saw my daughter turn 11.

On her birthday, we took her to dinner at Smorgy's, then the next day we took the big kids out of school to take them to the NGV as she was keen to visit an art gallery.

She also was nominated and won the vote to be a SRC at school. This involved preparing and presenting a speech in front of half the school (grade 3 -6 students vote). She aint shy like me. She enjoys being involved and takes great responsibility in her new calling. She isn't doing any other activities at this stage which is her choice.
My 7 year old is enjoying school and likes being the youngest in the older grades. Nothing wrong with my childrens self esteem. Makes me so proud and happy for them when they tell me how good they are at something, realistic too when they don't understand things too, asking questions which I sometimes can't even begin to answer.
Meanwhile, Av has started Karate classes which he adores. He usually attends twice a week. He is learning at home but he doesn't recognise it as homeschooling, just does what he likes to do.
J is teething. Hands shoved in the mouth and slobber has given me the clue that he is getting more teeth, and he then told me. "Teeth" pointing into the back of his mouth. He hasn't been too upset though. He has taken to feeding on me about 3 times a day and for longer periods. Colostrum is available now. Toilet learning regression has been frustrating - not sure why this is happening but we try to take it in our stride and hopefully all works out by the time bub is born. He is still not talking much but says a few words and is able to communicate sufficiently. He now realises there is a "Bae" (baby) in my belly rather than a "Ball"!
I am now in the 32nd week gestation. I love this baby. I didn't feel as strongly with my other babies so its a wonderful feeling. Not in my ribs yet, quite low and compact actually with lots of movement and sensations which I honestly continue to enjoy. One thing that has stood out for me is that I can look at my four children and not think its many kids, someone is missing. I assume its this bub in utero who is keen to meet us and us, him. I say 'him' because I have always thought I would have 4 boys and 1 girl but I could be wrong. I am happy with either gender but honestly having a girl will be a surprise.

I have been busy crafting for baby. Actually getting the hang of embellishing too.

I have enjoyed making quite a few matching sets ie. hats and tops.

Made plenty of woollies too. Most yarns I have been using lately have been from the Back Room at BWM in Bendigo. Noro Taiyo is in there too, love the bonnet especially with the long repeats of colour.

Newborn pair of crocheted overalls using doubled sock yarn. Probably only fit once but I think they are cute.

Completed Kid Blanket for Av. I still found it narrow but still big enough for a 5 year old. It may be slightly heavy for a younger child to carry around.

Now its Autumn and I hope I can make good use of my time as the time draws nearer for me to meet my next baby. There is many things I want to do, need to do. I have been reading a little, having only just finished "Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering" by Dr Sarah J. Buckley. Her writing about instincts and the references to back up why we should leave birth alone is awe inspiring. Of course, it all makes sense to me but its nice to read about an educated women who had 4 babies at home (the last unassisted), believes in delayed cord clamping (even having lotus births), co-sleeping because its safe and makes breastfeeding much easier which in turns makes for happier families, full term breastfeeding where she speaks of feeding her children to 4 years and beyond. So people can say all they like about "those crazy hippies", but gosh they are smart.

Here are my awesome 4 in our bed, the two youngest are asleep. No room for the parents so the big kids are sent to their rooms and Av carried to bed. J can stay. Over the years we have had musical beds. My daughter loved co-sleeping and stayed mostly with Dad til I had Av when she started sleeping with her 2.5year old brother. Av was not keen on co-sleeping though we still slept in the same room. He liked his own space and slept in the cot. Shortly after he turned 2, he slept with his older siblings. Soon after, my daughter conceded she was too big to share a bed and has since enjoyed sleeping on her own in her room. She still loves to have sleeps with her brothers in the lounge room on the weekends. This is usually when J will not join us at night. Its not that comfortable sharing a queen size bed with a pregnant woman, a big man and a toddler but we manage. And interestingly I haven't had the chronic shoulder/back pain I was suffering with before I became pregnant. I feel quite fortunate, with not feeling any such pains, at least not at this stage. Still with around 10 weeks of pregnancy ahead of me, my best bet is to continue looking after myself. I didn't have any fears with my last pregnancy with J but more have come up in this one but I will process these thoughts as I trudge along. I think my main stress at the moment is how will I manage with 5 children in a small house. Ideally we would move house but its seems like the impossible, with no money to spare, but I do look forward to more space in due time.

33

2011-01-27T22:02:00.000-08:00

Its my birthday present! Lame maybe but I like that I can make something for myself. Made from Karaoke soy/wool.

I have been making many things for the baby. I am not buying much at all, I don't need to. Above is J holding Junior in Victorian baby's cape crocheted in Karaoke soy/wool. He notices babies now and calls them 'bay'.

Receiving blanket in soy with corn edging. Think I will enjoy using this. I love making blankets but babywearing and co-sleeping usually means you don't often use them.
Lots of crochet baby things...

The yarn is fair trade and organic alpaca 4ply dyed to be a gradual gradient in Gypsy Rainbow colourway by Jolly Jumbuck, which was lovely but maybe not the best choice with the pattern. Without a diagram I couldn't work out the pattern so I made it my own way. Its very long using 110grams but hope it may be useful.

Have been knitting too...

Dreamerz organic cotton/milk singlet.

This Versa for J. I hadn't made anything for him in a while so it was sad when he didn't show much enthusiasm for trying it on. Versa is a fun pattern though so I am glad to see it in action.

Finally finished putting the squares I made in 2010 together, 16 crocheted and 4 knitted.

Also another WIP finished. Most of the work for this bath mat was in tearing up the sheet to be crocheted.

Also been working on my embellishing which I am quite happy with. I think organic wool is a joy to do needlework with as opposed to cotton which I struggled to do.

As for what our family have been doing, the children have been enjoying spending time playing with the neighbours. They often play together since we moved here but even moreso lately. They go to different schools so I think that is a good thing. Not that they are in same grades anyway. Av is younger and being 5 is asked if he is going to school. Thankfully he is happy to stay home and learn as he has been in the past 5 years.

This week we took the kids bowling as they sometimes enjoy doing. J loves it too. Here they are playing air hockey which is a fun pasttime too.

We had our first family BBQ! I am vegetarian so its not as exciting as it was for the kids and hubby! Rye bread around sausages with fruit/veg juice to wash it down.

On Australia Day (Invasion day) we decided to take the kids to Eureka Skydeck. They know the building well and spot it whenever we are near the City. Last time we went there was also Australia Day 2 years ago when J was only a small baby. This time we went in the evening. I think many people had the idea to watch the fireworks from a new height.

Since I am posting photos and most of my photos lately have been cruddy (can I blame the camera?) so I want to share this one which is offensive to children apparently. That is why my children think its normal and wonderful, right?

Witnessed in our house by children for almost 11 years. "Some Western person say that's disgusting...." This is the longest I have breastfed for (28mths and counting) and I can't see what the fuss is about. Not to say its not challenging because to me it really is, yet its normal. Full stop.

Holiday recap so far

2011-01-18T22:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas has come and gone.

We had a fairly relaxed day at home and at each of our mother's places. The children got many gifts even though they didn't get much from us. I think they were happiest with the gift they asked for and received from us.
New Year was celebrated in the City. It was very crowded yet surprisingly pleasant.

Family days out have been great.

Whether at the beach near home or on a day roadtrip its good to see the family enjoy time out.

Melbourne museum is a favourite with our children. So much to see and they get to play too. I know I learn something new each time we go.

Brickvention is a Lego Convention held at the Melbourne Town Hall. The boys were so keen, they even waited 2 hours in a line that went around the block.

We took a family day out in Bendigo. I don't remember it being so far from home! But we did enjoy the day. We first visited the Bargain Room at the Bendigo Woollen Mills before having lunch by the lake. We visited Cold Rock Ice Creamery and the conservatory.

I have been having a go at embellishing knitted items. I am quite happy with the strawberry I did on this vest. I am getting the hang of it and I wont say I completely suck at it now.

I have been making a lot of newborn items so I wont bore myself or others with copious amount of pictures or details so just a few examples. (If you are interested, find me on Ravelry.)

Crocheted singlets made in 4ply cottons for testing. As you can see I enjoyed making these as there is 4.

I have made lots of mittens, booties, bonnets and hats.

Bibs too.

Of course a few soakers too many

This was a test knit, Lee pullover. I did a heart embellishment on it which was a little rough but I think I am getting better.

I have been having many pattern ideas but usually they stay as pictures or notes in a book. I would like to develop some pattern ideas but I don't think I have enough passion or enthusiasm for it.

Test crochet hat, Urban Shells to fit a child.

The children have such a short time at home before school starts. Grade 6 and grade 3 for my big girl and big boy. Av will be at home, he has wanted to learn to read so he trialled Reading Eggs online which he really enjoyed and I can see he has learned a lot. For a child who had no real interest in the alphabet, he has surprised me with learning phonics and the like.
J has been going to the toilet all the time now, he has been out of nappies for a couple months. Sometimes he sleeps with us, sometimes not. He comfort feeds and to me he is still very much a baby but his speech is slowly improving so its nice to hear him communicate in more verbal ways.
Currently in week 25 of the pregnancy with a very active baby and gladly no nausea to speak of these days.

Summary of the decade dubbed the "Naughties"

2011-01-05T19:29:00.000-08:00

This will test my memory, trying to remember the last decade. Its hard enough remembering what I did yesterday. How could I forget I became a mother in 2000....

My first child surprised us all by being a girl! We didn't try long to conceive her, we were married 2 months before I became pregnant with her. I knew I was in the family way when we traveled to WA and came back driving across the Nullabor and just didn't feel quite right. A doctor hadn't a clue so waited til we came back home to see the family doctor, not having a clue ourselves what to do next. We didn't know about home pregnancy tests (now I know they are unnecessary - I knew I was pregnant!) and what on Earth do you do when pregnant anyway? Trust the doctor? Well I couldn't even back then. But I did all that was expected, went to all the appointments and thankfully only one ultrasound and it was quite stressful anyway. The labour went well as the midwives ignored me - probably assuming I would labour for at least 10 hours. We didn't rush in so by the time I arrived in hospital I was in established labour and it went fast. Obviously they had no idea how far I was. When a midwife asked to perform the first internal (which didn't happen), I was required to get out of the shower where there was much relief. My waters broke and 13 minutes later my daughter was born. I had a tear that required much stitching. I found that hard to deal with and took gas. Having a baby and becoming a mother was a surreal feeling. I was shocked by how difficult being so depended on was yet I adored my daughter and didn't want to be a way from her.

Unfortunately in many ways I ignored my instincts and did things like controlled crying, avoiding co-sleeping and not breastfeeding beyond 12 months. When you know better you do better. So after some trials and being sick with Graves disease which required 2 weeks in hospital with surgery, I finally became pregnant again.

We co-slept from day one. I had a son in 2003, we as a family became close, we fell in love, it was a wonderful time. Unfortunately it was a traumatic birth for me. I had a borderline third degree tear which took 6 weeks to recover from. It was a beautiful time in our family though, my daughter at 3 years, 2 months became a big sister. She told me she loved me for the first time when she first met her brother. And she started to become more outgoing when he arrived.

I thought my idea of having 5 children was not ideal at this stage. I could be happy with the boring average of 2 children, the pigeon pair. We left it to nature - as we do, and soon enough I was pregnant with my third child. My eldest son was quite unwell with severe eczema and still in nappies when our next child was born in 2005 so it was challenging. He was 2.5 years old and I believe quite put out by the new arrival. I had wanted to accidentally have him at home, having a freebirth appealed to me. I thought it would be my only chance at not being treated disrespectfully by strangers who thought they knew better. I wanted to avoid a tear so read up about breathing rather than pushing through contractions. I still had a tear but my recovery was better despite the place of birth, the hospital again. I had planned to birth in the birth centre but I was kicked out for borderline iron levels which meant I was high risk according to them. This meant I had a drip and catheter post birth, not with consent. As soon as he was born, I knew I would have a freebirth the next time. I had had enough. I researched unassisted pregnancy and unassisted birth and I was not going to do it any other way. There was no question....

Until of course my husband expressed shock that it was still on my mind when I became pregnant with my 4th child. Ultimately it was my choice, so we planned for a homebirth, buying a birth pool which was actually something my husband had always wanted for us. Water birth was just something not available to us in hospital. It was the best choice I ever made for our family. I am still dealing with issues related to my hospital births but being able to knowingly avoid it was exactly what I needed to do. In 2008 I had my wonderfully normal physiologically natural birth at home in water.

It was special - I brought him out of the water myself after a short undisturbed 1.5 hour labour and foetal ejection reflex where it took only about one minute to push him into the world. (I pushed for less than 3o minutes in all my labours).

I had my first babymoon and I could easily say I was on a high for close to a year. I never knew I could enjoy pregnancy, birth and the newborn stage! It was awesome, no other word for it. I did things as my instinct dictated, we still breastfeed, co-sleep and cuddle as needed. J is 27mths now and we are expecting our 5th child in this new decade - May this year.

Okay that was just about my babies. I have to add that I did see some bands live and participate in other hobbies that I adore (I do not want to estimate how many kilos of yarn I have knitted and crocheted into wearable garments or other items). I saw magic dirt (the best band in the world) play a few times which I am grateful for, the bass player passed away sadly also.

We traveled to quite a few beautiful coastal and rural towns and loved our roadtrips.
I became an aunty to nieces and nephews and we lost my Pop, my husband's biological father and sister.
Thankful for my photos that helped me to remember some of these things, also for being online so I can try to keep a regular journal of happenings in my childrens' young lives.

In summary this decade was a learning decade. I learned to be a better mother, wife, person. And guess what? Still not perfected so I keep trudging forward doing all that I can with the knowledge that I have been fortunate to require all the while making more mistakes to learn from. And I still don't know how to trust in people, but I have learned a lot about love.

Oh Christmas tree

2010-12-20T00:36:00.000-08:00

Its been a busy month with Christmas upon us again. We were loaned this tree and lights. The kids adored adorning the tree. The decorations are all handmade. I have tried not to be a scrooge about how I feel about the over commercialism of Christmas and enjoy what this time of year has to offer. It has been great to catch up with people and even see our family for lunch yesterday.

My daughter received her first badge through St Johns cadets as a junior at their last get together for the year where her family was welcome to attend. I met and talked with probably the most intelligent people I have ever met. For an example of topics discussed, danger of vaccination, social engineering (George Soros, Bill Gates), the corruption of the banks, the danger of out tap water, how Cancer can be treated with bi carb and oxygenated water, etc. And I am normal for having a homebirth and considering homeschooling. Its enlightening listening to such people.

My big kids performed in their school concert which was fun for them.

We took the kids to Scienceworks on a school day which was great because once the school groups go home, the kids have more free reign especially in the Nitty Grittyy Super City which is a lot of fun to watch.

We have been having fun going to the beach .

I welcome beach weather. We are still having cold, even freezing days in Melbourne while some places around the country floods. When it is cold, I feel unwell, the nausea hasn't been so bad as the weather has been warmer but the cold sets me back. Fortunately the pregnancy is going very well. I haven't any other issues to worry about. I am now 2o weeks and I look forward to the new year and welcoming another baby. Though I must be honest and say I am enjoying very much having my children grow up. J has been out of nappies for a fortnight which is fantastic.

Unschooling Monday

2010-11-29T19:41:00.000-08:00

Okay, we are late but after seeing a few other blog posts linked to Owlet's beautiful blog, I decided to blog about our unschooling endeavours.
We have a 10 year old and a 7 year old attending primary school. They fit in well and rather be at school and until we can move from this house that we hate, we will support our children in attending school. At the same time, our 5 year old will not be attending school next year like is expected. He has not attended kinder or child care. He is not shy or stuck at home, he has many friends of various ages and though weary of strangers he is not shy. Honestly my children are more confident than I am and I have been through 12 years of school.
Our 2 year old has mostly been only with us, he has stayed at his grandmothers' houses once each without much of a problem. At this stage, he doesn't need more than to play and have his family available for cuddles. He mostly sleeps with us, but occasionally he will sleep with his sibling/s.
All of our children love to draw. My daughter draws amazing pictures that come alive, they appear animated. Our boys draw well too but I cannot draw, my husband can. They love craft and can get along well together as they create. We got them all a craft box and that was very exciting for them, they usually only get a crafty activity periodically. They go through craft activities so quickly.

Av's drawing of a tiger.

Children are still awesome

2010-11-27T02:09:00.000-08:00

~Even though you appear nuts, you love your kids and want MORE. Yes, your hands are full. No you can not afford them. Yes, you sometimes mix up their names. This is not actually an indicator that you have trudged too far down the path of insanity. It is just LIFE. And life can be hard, but children are still awesome. You see the beautiful moments, where everybody gets along and where there is just a touch of the divine in your home.

This made me cry as I totally understand this thinking and it is how I feel.

A picture by my 7 year old son, neat writing included. Today the children received a box of craft supplies, they were so rapt. All 4 love to draw. J says "'raw?" He especially likes to draw on skin so maybe a future tattooist? I am not very artistic at all but their father is.
Though somewhat rare, seeing the children play together and create together today was divine.

Umpteenth!

2010-11-18T15:52:00.000-08:00

Umpteenth is a new word for my daughter. She is 10 and reading Anne Frank diary. Anne Frank was a 13 year old who with two families was cramped into a secret part of a building to avoid the Nazis in the early 1940's. Her teacher gave her the movie to watch of their life in the annex. Anyway I have noticed her understanding and comprehension has improved this year. Her maturity has also gained, she is less a child and more able to speak to me about things more broadly, though her understanding is not always complete - neither is mine. We went in to to see her teacher the other day and she was tested as having the reading level of a 14.7 year old. She has also improved with her Maths. I think her teacher expects us to be amazed and tremendously proud. Honestly we are proud of her anyway. She has her strengths and weaknesses and is a whole person. She has talents that cannot be tested. What I am happy with is when she is proud of herself.

We originally went in to the school to see my son's teacher. We were given an appointment for two weeks ago and he "lost" it. Not sure why he didn't want us to see his teacher. I promised him we would not say anything but nice things! Of course! He has nothing to worry about. He loves maths but he doesn't think he is good at anything else like writing and reading. Truth is his writing is very neat and he can construct clear sentences. He is actually quite the perfectionist. His reading is tested as level 40 which is the highest level they test to grade 4. He is 7 and will be in grade 3 next year. He was surprised when I told him his level, he didn't believe me. When we were talking with my daughter's teacher, she was asking her about fractions but she doesn't quite get it. My son quipped, "A quarter is bigger than a tenth." She was amazed, "How do you know that?" She told him he should be learning his timetables. He said "I know most of the timetables, but I need to learn my 9x." So the teacher showed him a 'trick' where you put your hands out. If you want to work out 2x9 you put down your 2nd finger and you get 1 before that finger and 8 after so its 18. For 9x9 you put down your 9th finger, you get 8 and 1 so 81. I watched his face as she explained it and I think he was shy at first but he is so cluey he got it and the amazement in his eyes made me tear up! Seeing your children learn and understand is a real joy.

My daughter wanted to homeschool next year but she is unsure. I think a good compromise would be part time but we can't agree. I am not keen on my daughter going to high school but she is old enough to choose and I really want her to have that choice. I know many children can't choose to homeschool but I want my children to have that choice. At this stage, my two youngest will be homeschooling in a natural learning style as they have been for their first formative years. Av is 5 and has no real interest in school (and I do believe he has a say). I am very much hoping for a tree change, to be able to move away from where we are currently living and have an improved lifestyle that suits us. If that happens, I am sure homeschooling will be a more viable and accepted option. Where we are living now, its fine for us now but when bub arrives I do worry how we will manage. As I continue to spring clean I hope that decluttering will help but having another person in a small house may send us over the edge.

Av has just started running with his Dad and big brother. J loves to run too which is cute. Av can really hold his own and that was the concern that he wouldn't be able to keep up, well he did surprise his Dad with his fast pace. I do not run, its my thing, my daughter has no real interest in sport either unless its fun games. BUt I can see Av and his brothers will probably try sports as they get older.

J has started asking to use the toilet which is a great small step!
Nausea is still lingering in this pregnancy but its only slight and usually its not all day so I am feeling more positive as I approach 16 weeks. I have been making a few things so will share.

From German sock yarn, wee cuties crocheted.

Young Einstein in a newborn size knit in Woolganics 8ply next to a Versa in 6mth size knit in Malabrigo Twist. The Versa pattern is awesome. I can see myself referring to this pattern for vests in the future.

One day emergency hat was a fun easy knit made as a mini KAL in the BDD group on Ravelry. Using some gifted acrylic.

eden's adam singlet knitted in Zanz cotton. I think this was my 15th, I do like this pattern though I have altered it to the shape I like and I like the garter panel all the way down the side. I have tried to go easy buying things and nappies to buy for baby as its very easy to buy. But this is a cute set. I am expecting another boy but I could be wrong! I have always thought I would have 4 boys and a girl.

Gorgeous crochet pixie hat using up some 8ply wool scraps. Yarn cafe, the Polwarth dyed by me.

Using Malabrigo Twist to crochet this newborn romper, I changed the shaping from the pattern as I am hoping it fits over a cloth nappy.

Puff stitch for the first time in this hat crocheted in Malabrigo worsted. I love the colour and the style.

Buzz

2010-11-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

J wearing the Term Time vest I made. He is now starting to speak and tried to say "Upside Down" but it comes out, "Up, down" which is quite cute. He loves food and is still feeding though I have the feeling he isn't getting much but for the comfort he needs. I think there may have been colostrum, but I can't express anything. As for toileting, he sometimes makes it to the toilet but he may be some time away from throwing out the nappies. He is very much my baby, looks it and acts it. I gave him a haircut - just a fringe trim so it wasn't forever getting in his eyes -and he looks slightly older. My big kids lost their babyness much earlier.

Pregnancy is tough. Emotionally and physically. At least now the nausea is much easier to deal with and is not a constant reminder that I am expecting. I had some depression and it was very difficult to handle but I am trying to deal with what comes at me as it comes. My shoulder and back is not as bad as it was pre - pregnancy so that is a positive and quite strange and unusual really. I am trying really hard to keep a balance to my days so I can manage the things that need to be done and still feel in good health. The best thing about being pregnant is feeling those movements and feeling sensual. Also nesting for bub, for me that means organising clothes and making things.

This top was meant for J but its too small so its for bub.

I am also now crocheting again.
To be able to knit and crochet again has brought some joy back in my life - ie. doing something I enjoy.

On Sunday we visited my brother and his family in Kidstown, Mooroopna which was fun for the kids.

Little boy gets big, turns 5

2010-11-07T15:03:00.000-08:00

I now only have one child under 5, life should be easy! But though the children may be slightly less demanding especially on a 24 hour basis, attitudes take over, they become their own people and headstrong people come up to battles! They can certainly have their own arguments that I do not wish to be a part of, eg. He took my toy...She stole my pencil....He scratched me...

Anyway, it it wonderful to see my children grow and learn. When a birthday comes up, its a good opportunity to look back and see how much they have grown and learned. Av turned 5 on November 2nd. All he wanted was toys, especially Transformers. We bought him 2 plus How to train a Dragon DVD. He is a fan of dragons. I also had new clothes for him but he complained he didn't get enough. He liked his new outfit.
He wasn't keen on going out so we took it easy at home though we did go out for lunch. I helped the big kids make a cake and that was a surprising success. I love seeing the skill it takes to make creative cakes but how pleased was I that I can still remember how to make a basic one! No we don't bake much.

We had a surprise birthday party just with us and Nanna so he could have fairy bread and balloons.

So crafty - making a person

2010-10-24T03:15:00.000-07:00

I couldn't be more excited than to be at this stage where I can say I am pregnant and not be as sick as I was. I am 12 weeks and the past 6 weeks were extremely stressful and difficult. From week 4 - 10 I could barely eat and my only relief from the nausea was sleep. I believe I spent up to 22 hours a day in bed. It was all I could do. I felt like I was doing nothing though honestly I was making a baby and that takes a lot of energy. The last two weeks were easier but still no fun. I have more energy the past few days and less nauseated so I am grateful for that. Time spent catching up on a test knit that I feel awful about because its been a month in the making. Term Time vest for littlies who don't go to school. Knitted in Malabrigo chunky. It is a size 2 and does fit J (now 25mths old) but he wasn't very impressed with it but he was cranky today. J even had a mega nap.

And to catch up on all that Spring cleaning I had planned, first to catch up on washing and general cleaning up. I was motivated today and that was great to see things getting out of the way. Please let it continue.

My littliest boy turned 2!

2010-10-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

My littliest boy turned 2 about a fortnight ago on the 21st September.

We are still breastfeeding, albeit only once a day. This is my doing, not his wanting because I am having a hard time with my health in particular. Anyway I am very happy he is 2 and having the good stuff.
We spent the day basically eating! For lunch we went to Pancake Parlour and then all you can eat for dinner. It was way too much food but it was fun. J adored having his Dad's hand to hold and the cuddles. I didn't really get a look in.

He loved the cake. The day before, Av really talked up the birthday cake.

Just an update on the knitteds I completed last month. I haven't knitted much since as I have been too unwell.
This was a test knit called Elisaac sweater. It is knit in 8ply Woolganics and Yarn Cafe.

Finally finished a Little Hoodlum for J with Yarn Cafe.

And its so nice to have some warmer weather. There are flowers everywhere saying Hey Its Spring.

R U OK? Creepy guy ruins weird movie.

2010-10-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

Today is R U OK? day. Please do not ask, I am far from okay. I have been mostly bed ridden for the past few weeks. Last night I made an attempt to go out just with my Mum as she had free tickets to see "The Other Guys" Its just a strange movie. About halfway, a creepy guy sits by me. My heart starts beating very fast and honestly I am scared. I am weak because I have been struggling to eat and the last thing I want is to have to fight and protect myself. I sit fairly motionless with my hands at my face, completely unable to concentrate on the movie. I feel him moving and then he turns on his mobile and shines it over the lollies I had. I turn to him, he asks if I bought them at the front. I say No. He says Oh at Coles?. Yes. I turn away wishing he would just move. I cough and he asks if Ia m okay?! I shake my head cos I am honestly not. He finally gets up and decides to shuffle past us. This is a mostly empty movie theatre and he chooses to sit by us and then push past us? It was incredibly creepy. By this stage I am annoyed and I am glad he has left us so I can breathe. I considered leaving the cinema and complaining to management because he ruined the weird movie. We leave and talk to the security just outside. They noticed the creepy guy and his friend. There is no phones that are safely nearby so security thankfully let us use their phone so I can call my husband to pick us up. Its quite possible that they were stoned and possibly looking for a wallet or something. I couldn't care less if he took my lollies. Normally I wouldn't be as freaked out especially when I am taller and bigger than some men but still feeling threatened in my space and unwell is not right. And crazies carry knives. You just can not feel 100% safe in this world.

Hats for Orlando and Rayner

2010-09-14T21:09:00.001-07:00

Child version of Waffle hat
I modified the original waffle pattern to fit a child and the pattern is on the designer's site here. I used Malabrigo worsted doubled.

Sunshine in Melbourne

2010-09-13T23:07:00.000-07:00

Get the complaining out of the way, the back pain isn't so bad now I have only been sleeping on my left side. I have a chest infection that is no fun. And nausea. Not morning sickness, gets worse as the day wears on. I feel like its all going against me, or maybe my health needs a look at, as if I am doing something wrong. So not used to feeling this way.
The sun shining today and its so wonderful, if only I was feeling better, it helps a little to have the sun visible.

My eldest son told me he hadn't been on a train in a while, hinting at wanting to go on one. So I thought it would be lovely to spend an afternoon with my big boy. His first word (apart from Ma-ma and da-da etc) was 'twain' at 8mths. He was talker as a baby though he is quiet and reserved in a lot of ways. He is very alert and takes in a lot of what is going on without saying anything til later usually. He loves Maths and has forgone practicing and performing in the school concert so he can do hard maths instead.
I think I surprised him as I offered to buy him a milkshake, lunch, shoes and an icecream. I remember as a child, what special time I had when it was just my Mum and I. There are similarities between us, he is a loner and quiet like I am and isn't so demanding. I loved spending time with him, undivided attention.

J adores his big sis. Here he is, trying to attack her with a kiss. My girl is now at school camp. She was incredibly excited about going, she has been to a few, with school and Cadets.

This one is her longest at 4 days.

My little boys have unfortunately been unwell. J has had conjunctivitis and a cough like we all seem to have varying degrees of. Its been a long few weeks. J also has had a few bouts of hives like his older brother. My big boy has been suffering with eczema again.
We did have a good day on Fathers Day when we took Dad out to lunch and bought his much wanted iPod to use while running. I feel 'not quite right' buying things especially when the ethics of such companies are questionable, but I can be sensible and not overbuy and avoid wasteful purchasing, making do with what we have. We have never bought a MP3 player before so its our first and I know it will get worthwhile use.

I have been making a few things for J for his birthday as he is outgrowing his baby clothes. He is quite built, not so chubby as not small! This vest is knitted with some bright Malabrigo worsted.

Rainbow singlet knit in 4ply sock wool - Zauerball.

Another singlet, this one knit in a beautiful soft bamboo.

J absolutely loves trucks, so when I found these buttons online, J was in awe, and even moreso when they arrived. This hat was the result from the KAL on Ravelry from TotToppers. Its the Salute hat and knit in Malabrigo Twist.

Av gave himself a haircut with kid scissors the other day. After I freaked out, we couldn't help but giggle since it reminded us of "Boy" the movie. "Its called a hair CUT!" Where Boy's father gives him a Michael Jackson haircut while smoking marijuana.

He also cut it at the back in a few spots.

My youngest son's birth month

2010-09-08T02:48:00.000-07:00

My baby boy turns 2 in just a couple weeks. I am looking forward to it, hoping that my challenging year will be over and maybe I can enjoy the family more. Its been difficult and I would like to have a break!
As for my back, its holding up, just. I have really bad nights and mornings, its fine during the day and I think I have worked out how to avoid that agony. Sleep on my left side. Where the pain seems to be originating from, it on the right of my spine. Its still uncomfortable but not with excruciating pain.

As usual I am still creating. I made myself a bulky circle vest which I love and wear a lot.

Winter has not dissipated so the weather still calls for keeping warm. Half of Victoria is under water. Oh and we have a minority government! Labor with independents and Greens support. Its been a long wait but hopeful we will see good things happen. Its meant to Spring so given strength I hope to continue the slow going Spring cleaning that is happening here. My kids are getting taller and clothes are looking smaller. Some will be passed down and I can see a few my daughter wore may even make it to J!

Cool hat for J. Unfortunately its too small.
I have been making many things for J's birthday and a few gifts.

Throwing Out the lies with the birth water

2010-08-18T00:41:00.000-07:00

Last night we attended the Melbourne screening of "Throwing out the lies with the birth water" by Rani O'Keefe (pic by BellyBelly Kelly.) [We were at the back, my husband is in this photo in blue.] I had to stand for the movie but it was worth it. Rhea Dempsey spoke about the need for women to have access to their birthing hormones and instincts and getting to that place where the neo cortex is gone! The way she explained it was very insightful. The movie was about the situation in the Blue Mountains where its become difficult for women to travel to birth and how its essential that women can choose to stay home.

After the movie, Alex Bhathal, a Greens politician from Batman electorate spoke on where the Green party stand as far as the Maternity Reform making it effectively impossible for women to have birth choices. They hope to have enough power in Parliament that they may start from scratch with Maternity Reform, that is really the only hope.

A video on how Julia Gillard has shown her lack of concern for women today in Australia.

Speaking of politics, the Federal election is on Saturday (21st August). At the moment we are in caretaker mode in Australia (with Julia Gillard as our first female prime minister). I think that means even campaigns are slow and boring!
In our electorate we are a safe Labor seat. I often see Labor posters and occasionally Greens but never Liberal. My daughter brought me a little info on the local Greens candidate on a mailout she found on the way home from school. I could only find one article on our local candidate. She is 1st on the ballot paper. My other choices are Family First and Socialist so I am decided. I will vote below the line on the white paper and for which I only have a rough idea how I will vote at this stage.
There are independants standing in 4 areas of Australia who need votes to stand up against those who oppose birth choices. Sally Anne Brown for Corangamite (VIC), Michelle Meares for Robertson (NSW), Amy Bell for Macquarie (QLD), Rebecca Jenkinson for Dickson, (QLD).
Michelle Meares, Amy Bell, Sally-Anne Brown and Rebecca Jenkinson are standing in marginal seats of Robertson, Macquarie, Corangamite and Dickson respectively.

Things, thoughts and thuds

2010-08-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

Just a few things I have made recently. Not feeling up to blogging it all. The Ultimate longies for the Budding designers Group KAL on Ravelry in Patons classic merino for a newborn size. Also in the same yarn, finally a pair of slippers for my daughter who has only been asking for a year or so. These were also a KAL for same group. I love the buttons as I discovered when I sewed them on they look like hugs and kisses. The skirts are a test crochet for a wonderful new pattern to be released in September called Coconut Ice. I am working on a third skirt. A scarf I made quickly for my daughter from funfur and sock yarn crocheted together length ways. An awesome hat for me using up leftover Noro yarn. Car seat straps in cotton with handmade buttons. The doll is a present for J who is turning two next month. It is an anatomically correct boy, I am planning to dress him over the next few weeks. For now he has a bonnet crocheted from sock yarn.

This is my friend's few days old gorgeous little girl. I made her children a hat each and this is the same bonnet I made for J's doll but done with a 4mm hook. I did the doll's with a 3.5mm hook. Isn't she lovely?!

Update on my back pain. I could use a scale of how I am feeling with agony being at its worse and painful being moderate and then there is uncomfortable where it isn't too debilitating. That is today, just uncomfortable. I have been crying a lot over the last few days which has me believing that maybe the repressed sadness is in my back rather than repressed anger as I have read could be the reason for back pain without known physical cause. I rarely cry and I have felt so much better after my recent crying! Its like a much needed release. I think I have found the spot where I may have injured my back - possibly from lifting and turning J while asleep to feed him. I have been limiting stress, refraining from yelling and just letting things be as much as possible. Trying to remember to breath especially diaphragm breathing. And of course limiting breastfeeds and carrying J. J is great, though his typical toddler ways leave me exhausted at least he seems to understand when I say no to feeding him. Toilet learning still seems a time away but I know one day it will all makes sense to him. My big kids got it at 2y10m, 3y6m respectively, Av at 18mths (going on the potty independently then no nappies at 2y1m). He is not yet 2 so I can only guide him.

We haven't been doing much lately. I think the weather stops us from doing more even if our intentions are to go out and do more. We haven't had too much illness apart from the typical cold. I even had it which is rare for me. The big kids are not loving school as much but still go. Maybe because they see it as a normal thing. I would like to know more homeschoolers and do meetups, I think that networking would make the difference. The pressure they are putting on my daughter in preparation for high school is tremendous and not something that I see as necessary. She is 10 and in grade 5. We are hoping she will not attend high school but I think it is her choice.

My big boy is always learning what is next especially when it comes to maths. He knows fractions, money and division. He is 7 and in grade 2. I am always worried that he will get bored but he seems to be able to jump ahead of his own accord. His teacher seems supportive of him giving him more work but I doubt she does. He chooses not to do his homework. I don't agree with homework so I am happy for him not do it. My daughter stresses over it and I think its not necessary.

Meanwhile Av is learning what he wants to. He is keen on learning letters, words and numbers. I am not teaching him but guiding him, answering his questions and I believe he will learn what he needs to. He is almost 5 and has not been to school, I do not plan to enroll him. He is happy not to go to school at this stage.

How scary is this? My husband wanted to go from a run so we all went along with him. Not to run but to play at the playground. Unfortunately my eldest son got carsick so by the time we got to the Lake it was too dark and wet for play. It didn't stop Av!

Anyway, we were driving (husband was driving) there when I see and hear something slide down the windscreen. It was a hammer! After hearing about rocks and chemicals being thrown at cars and people for fun, I was freaked out. My husband told me that was the thud that happened last night. So it must have been thrown the night before, landing on the top but only slid down at that time.

Chronic Back Pain

2010-08-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

In an effort to discover why I am having so much pain in my back I figure I can try blogging/journalling it and learning as much I can about my body and maybe why its happening and how I can cure it. I have been looking into Knowledge Therapy and the idea that stress could be the cause rather than a physical reason. I have been having severe back pain for about 3 weeks now. I have no idea how people deal with it for months, years and decades. I often woke up with the pain - generally in my middle back, in between my shoulder blades. I have a shower which only relieves the pain ever so slightly. Sometimes the pain dissipates or lightens but gets worse as the day becomes night. I am not sleeping very well though I am very tired. Its causing me to think about dying - cos surely if I was a horse I'd be shot. I have no other reason to think of suicide so its concerning.
I don't recall having an injury but I do believe that the body is meant to repair and recover. I do not think the medical profession will (or is not capable to) help me.
I have looked at the way I sleep. I am sleeping on a queen size bed with my husband and youngest child. I usually feed bub once or twice a night. He accepts if I say no more. I tried sleeping on another bed but it was still uncomfortable in the morning.
At my husband's advice I have tried stretching more. A friend told me it is related to my posture so I have been more aware of that. Yet the pain has become worse. Today I bend over or down and I cry "Far Out" Its unbelieveable excruciating pain and agony. I hate feeling this useless. If this is psychosomatic then I can have hope. I pray that this will be over and I can get back to be a Mama who is not yelling and doesn't get upset when they want a hug because it hurts.

World Breastfeeding Week (My breastfeeding story and thoughts)

2010-08-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

This week is World Breastfeeding Week. I support breastfeeding, I have breastfed 5 children, 4 of them my own. The other child was a week old. His name was Benjamin and his family were Australian by birth but lived in South Africa, they had come home to have their first child. Unfortunately the mother was struggling with it all and was very exhausted. She basically collapsed on the floor of MCHN after a playgroup I was attending with my eldest daughter at 6mths of age. I offered to feed their child who was screaming while the mother talked to the nurse (who offered formula as her solution *sigh* ). I spoke to the father while I fed Benjamin, he contently fed and fell asleep which his father was very thankful for.

When I was pregnant, I didn't give much thought to how I would parent. We had little money and didn't really buy into the idea that babies need to cost a lot of money. My mother told me of how she managed without a pram and the like. I thought using cloth nappies and breastfeeding was normal, less wasteful and cheaper. I didn't consider I would have problems breastfeeding, it was was just how mothers fed their children. I don't remember seeing many babies being breastfeed as I was growing up but do remember when I was a teen I knew someone who was feeding her 5 year old. It was very normal and not something to freak out over. Even still when I had my daughter I thought I would feed her til she was 1, no less, no more. I weaned her 2 weeks before her 1st birthday because she was biting me and I couldn't handle the discomfort at the time. I was upset that she didn't feed til her first birthday. Thankfully when my second child started biting at 8mths I persevered and he self weaned at 18mths. My 3rd child self weaned at 21mths. My 4th child is still feeding at 22mths. I did wean him from day feeds because I found it challenging to feed him so much during the day and neither of us were happy. He continues to feed at night on demand, sometimes once, often many times during the night. I really want to feed him til he is 2. Breastfeeding is not so easy as they get older but it is still beneficial. It could be said I have had an easy time of breastfeeding but it wasn't without its challenges. Sore nipples and mastitis and lots of feeling touched out. Our culture barely tolerates breastfeeding so it is hard for women to keep feeding their babies til the recommended age of 2 and beyond. I know embarrassment is one of the reasons why women stop or don't attempt to feed. And other people's comments on it. When I was pregnant with our first my husband was shocked when at our 20w scan a researcher wanted to know if I was going to breastfeed ( I didn't think it was a choice as such) and he didn't want me to. Now he understands it but back then he had only known people to formula feed as he was (he was adopted but I wonder if he would have been breastfed otherwise). My mother in law was shocked my SIL was breastfeeding her 2 year old, saying it was illegal. My mother saying it's not right to feed past 2. It seems the world is against mothers nurturing their babies. As a society we are in such a hurry for our kids to grow up and be independent and never at their own pace.

I support breastfeeding. Not with any conditions.* Not "as long as it is done discreetly". Not "as long as the child is under 1" Not "as long as it doesn't upset anyone". Its not about others, its about nourishing and comforting a child. I wouldn't dare put any conditions on others especially childrens happiness and well being.

Drama over baby and keys locked in van

2010-08-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

Some may say its bad parenting. We locked our kid in the car. If we get technical, hubby left the key on a sleeping J unknowingly who then awoke to press lock on it. Fortunately it was not a hot day. My husband panicked, I tried to stay clam. Honestly I have been feeling awful with bad back ache and nausea and the last thing I wanted to do was go see a friend to take photos (for an ebay listing) but I was promised it wouldn't take long....
About an hour (time I am unsure about) later we conceded that J would not be able to get out of his car seat (that is their purpose, right?) to pick up the key he threw at the window and was lying on the floor. He had fallen asleep after realising it was not a game and it was no fun anymore. He was in some distress so I was glad he decided to sleep instead. We considered breaking the window but I suggested calling the Police at least for advice would be wise before taking that last resort. They were so helpful and sent out all 000 services because an infant was involved. Within minutes a fire truck with sirens blazing arrived.

If only J knew the treatment he was receiving. Four firemen jumped out of their truck with lights on and asked about our son and the locks on the car. Because J was asleep and heat was not an issue they asked if it was okay that they took their time ie. not break a window and unlock the car. I was happy with that. Not long after the Police and Paramedics arrived and basically watched. It didn't take them very long at all to open the passenger door through the sliding door on our van. The Police told us if needed, to break the front window because its cheaper and less damaging. But more importantly we are getting a spare key!
J was very upset when hubby took him out of the car. He was crying so the Paramedic said he didn't need to look him over. I tried to comfort him but he was quite inconsolable. I was trying to show him the fire truck as he loves trucks. I don't think he understood the drama at all. As the fire truck drove off he realised what it was and waved! He declined a drink but had a snack with his sister after a long cuddle with Mama. The big kids were not worried about it all but Mama and Dad were distraught and quite worn out. Av was out watching last night smiling his grin and then upset we decided not to see our friend. J seems more clingy today and I don't blame him.

Loose teeth and awesome kids stuff

2010-07-31T19:27:00.000-07:00

We took the little boys to Edwardes Lake for a play. I had some fun playing with the camera and trying shots with black and white and sepia as well as colour.

Both my big kids have had loose teeth in the past week or so. For my daughter its her 10th I believe, a cuspid. For my son, its his 3rd - his first top tooth lost.

This was our attempt at making a K (for our last name initial) with bodies. They did try different letters and J and Av didn't quite get it but it was a laugh! We opened up the lounge so the kids could play games.

Last week I made...

2010-07-31T08:01:00.001-07:00

Last week I made...
Originally uploaded by inakid

A mesh scarf and bag crocheted from beautiful dyed Zanz 8ply cotton. Gorgeous Seraphina shawl crocheted with Kauni Effect EQ.
Hat made from granny squares, in red Peaches and Creme cotton.
Yoked leaves cardigan knitted for dolls. I used bulky scraps.
I got a new camera last week. My first Canon and its quite nice! It takes clear photos without too much trouble. Unfortunately the story behind how I bought it involved bad customer service (another store from the one I bought it from). Anyway, I crocheted a case for it from Peaches and Creme cotton.

Melbourne Craft and Quilt Fair

2010-07-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

Someone needs to tell me next time I mention going to a fair, not to go! To me its over priced and crowded.
My daughter really wanted to go so I took the opportunity to have a day with just her and I. No school and no boys.

We took the train into the City. I initially forgot my camera and silly me forgot to charge it so I thought it would be easy enough to get another battery. I was wrong! I spent way too long waiting for service in the big M store. My store.. hmmm. Anyway I ended up buying a new camera from Dick Smith and promising my other one to my daughter (once charged) as I had be meaning to get a new camera anyway. Its my first Canon and its simple but works well. Easy point and shoot pictures as well as being able to program as well.

Finally we got the fair and it was very busy. We looked around and there was not much wool associated stalls so it was interesting just not as fun. The quilts on display were amazing.

Its too cold in July in Melbourne to eat icecream right? There was a beautiful looking gelati bar right near the Yarra that enticed my daughter so we indulged. It was so quiet then there was a crowd! It was worth the money and surprising it was good and not too freezing an idea...

Bigshot

2010-07-22T04:34:00.001-07:00

N Bigshot
Originally uploaded by inakid

My big boy was quite rapt to get something I knit just for him. Its the Hotshot pattern using Peaches and Creme solids worsted. I cast on for the size 4 size and it fits him well. He is 7 and usually wears size 6-8.

Windy City and random things

2010-07-15T03:51:00.000-07:00

Av saw Bob the Builder movie with his Nana a few weeks ago. I say that because I forgot to mention it previously. I just know there were other things I forgot to mention. My memory is not the best and that is why I initially started this blog.
J is not much of a talker but last week he awoke as the rubbish truck was going by our house and he said "Ruck!" He usually says "arc", he also says "Ah" for car, "War" for water and lots of other simple sounds that really could mean anything, but Mama knows.
He can settle himself to sleep, meaning he often goes to bed (or couch) for a nap. Though not keen on the potty he will do poos on it if I catch him needing to go. He is happy to sit there a little while if the trucks and cars are around him!

Its windy some days in Melbourne. Icy cold too.

We wanted to take the boys to the train museum while our daughter was at a friends' place but it was too cold for my liking. Look at those crazy kids on the playground.

This seagull clipped my husband and I took its photo!

The kids dressed up for a barn dance with the church. T and J danced some but the boys were not so interested.

Homebirth is pretty silly

2010-07-07T21:28:00.000-07:00

Okay then!

"I gave birth to my second daughter on the beach at Margaret River. Was told by the doctor the previous day I had least another week so we decided to go away for the Australia Day long weekend. Went into labour walking around with toddler who wouldn't settle down for the night in the tent. Initially my (ex) partner ...didn't believe me until I went outside and screamed and he came just in time to catch baby before she hit the sand! My daughter is now 32 and a great believer in
natural/home births. And no I didn't call her Sandy. :)"

That is the story of my birth. I was not a homebirth, yet a freebirth unplanned. I am quite sure I have been avoiding doctors all my life!

I do not think homebirth is silly. Nor is it dangerous. What is silly and dangerous in my mind is putting my life in someone else's hands when its not necessary. Which in turn is putting my child's life at risk. What the naysayers need to understand is, homebirth is not just a desire of the mother. Her rights come first and when you care and respect for the woman, you are doing same for the unborn child. Its not about doing all for the baby and forgetting the woman is a person. That is what is inherently wrong with my experiences having babies in hospital. Yes, I do matter. My physical and emotional wellbeing matter when I am caring for the precious newborn for whom people will do anything for when I am in labour. The contrast after I had my youngest son was immense. Was I so selfish to do what is best for me? To avoid the trauma? Not only for myself but my family too. Don't they deserve a happy mother?

Winter Holidays

2010-07-06T23:49:00.000-07:00

Its cold and its Winter so I guess that would make sense! Making much use of our woolly hats.
During the holidays we have been keeping busy and have taken the kids a few places but nothing too organised or different. They went bowling yesterday with their Dad. I wanted to go but I was in need of a break. Honestly I have re entered the red tent. It is a relief in a way, its been over 31 months since my LP. I had 2 early miscarriages in April and June. Anyway I do wonder if I will have another baby or if I should be just incredibly happy with the 4 I have, who are fast growing up.

Taking every opportunity to take photos of all 4 together.

Look at that grin! They are watching 'Alvin and the Chipmunks" squeakel. We later bought Avatar and 2012 and they enjoy watching that too. It may be a challenge getting the mattress back in the room. The big kids have been sleeping in a single bed on the loungeroom floor most of the school holidays.
My daughter has large project to complete on Cyprus before she goes back to school. It is causing her so much stress, I think the idea of radical unschooling seems favourable. She is 10, in grade 5 and she is doing a project of epic proportions. I don't think I did anything like that involved til high school. Year 10 even.
The big boys are going to see their Nan tonight.
Look at those expressions! That is the awesome 4!

Knitting

2010-07-04T23:14:00.000-07:00

I have been making jewellery and crocheting more than knitting but I had managed to do some. Most recently was the K-shirt tee.

In Peaches and Creme cotton.

My latest eden's adam singlet. This one is knit in Debbie Bliss eco baby cotton and I kept the garter panel done the sides and I much prefer it the way I think.

Riverstone, ribbed sweater I made for J, modelled by Av. It has the cutest polymer clay buttons resembling lemon slices. The yarn is from the Yarn Cafe.

I am currently working on a Hotshot, a hooded sleeveless top in 8ply organic merino.

A day in the City

2010-07-03T22:00:00.000-07:00

We haven't been doing much these holidays. We did go see Toy Story 3 at the Drive Inn but mostly we have been home tidying, eating and playing computer games. Well I have been tidying and decluttering, we have all been eating and the kids been taking turns on the computers.

On Saturday we attempted to have fun in the City, visiting Fed Square and ArtPlay near the Yarra River.

My daughter and Av wanted to go on the big wheel....

Yeah they had so much fun!...My daughter was freaking out, she is easily scared and Av was bored and couldn't wait to get off and see what his big brother was doing. *Sigh!*

We had Dinner before going home. It was a tiring cold day in the City!

Cooking and mish mash in June

2010-06-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking the camera I have is not that great but I am working out to use it and I am getting better results. There may be hope for me yet. I bought the camera because I felt I needed it and thought I could buy a better one and give this one to my daughter.

I have got very behind in blog posts so I will share a few things.
Av has been drawing and writing which is awesome.

We visited the school on the last day of term for school sports. My daughter won an award for sportsmanship in her grade level. She won a movie ticket so I took her to see Mamaduke.

Something else we have been getting into is learning to cook. My staple meals that I make are pasta, simple and cheap. I make a mean pasta sauce! I also make stir fry. All vegetarian of course. Apart from that I am not much of a cook. Av is very much into cutting vegetables and helping with cooking and we have felt inspired to learn to make a few things from scratch.

This is pesto pizza which is delicious! I have been even baking which is not really my thing. Using apple and pear to make pastries. We also made hash brown from scratch which is quite involved. Next on the list is making our own bread. Artisan bread sounds interesting.

I am still knitting and crochet more than I probably need to! I just can't help myself. Mostly hats atm.

Handwarmers for my daughter and I in Cascade Heathers red.

Hives

2010-06-27T22:19:00.000-07:00

He went out for 15minutes in the car and came back complaining he was bitten by mosquitoes. I thought that was strange because its winter. The next day it became worse, to the point he was crying for help. I figured out it was Hives and and a mild antihistamine helped straight away.

It was very scary. He is allergic to dander so he usually reacts with hives when licked by my Mum's dog but its never like this.

Just a reminder

2010-06-16T19:54:00.000-07:00

My daughter was getting upset that her tooth was loose. It was a milk tooth, and it was a reminder she is not all grown up yet! She has now lost 9 baby teeth.
She is very excited about going on camp this year. She talks about very little else so we will try our best to get the money together to pay for it.
Meanwhile our eldest son says he is not interested at all as he will have the opportunity next year. He really enjoys school. We met his teacher who is happy to challenge him in his school work which is great. He has mastered level 30 in reading. He doesn't think so but his reading is great - confident and he always gives a word a go no matter what length. He was reading about a web page that my husband was looking at and it was about Nazis or something and it was astounding to me. He is only 7. He loves maths and is forever testing me on my timetables! He likes problem solving and I go to him if I need help with something like putting things together.

Av has been learning too. At home of course. He is quite adept at using the computer and can type and write his name. His vocabulary is probably up to what would be expected of his age I'd imagine. He says some funny things but he can communicate very well now. Funny saying of the month - "It goes different with the nuts." He was suggesting his hungry older brother would like some grain bread! I love how caring and affectionate he is. He was such a rough nut as a toddler but now he is so sweet and loving, it is so wonderful. He is forever saying he loves me, giving me kisses, and showing compassion for his brothers and sister.
As much as I felt guilty about it, I decided to day wean J. I could see we were both unhappy and cranky and maybe the constant feeding was why. I am back to enjoying feeding him but at night and in the morning (and yes during the night some nights). Its not what I really want but its what we need. I see J smile more and come to me for cuddles and I am loving that. I also feel closer to my older kids too. J has now started to enjoy more other foods and is not as fussy which I think is a good thing. In about 3 months he will be 2 and I hope he can continue feeding til at least then.

The Awesome 4 - June 2010

2010-06-15T19:02:00.000-07:00

Treat Mama like a Queen day (End of the World)

2010-06-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

My daughter proclaimed that the public holiday we call Queen's birthday will be now Treat Mum like a Queen day. :)

We planned to go for a drive and we took a good friend with us. (On this day I had actually a great sleep, sleeping all night, woke at a reasonable hour, did some laundry and went food shopping and made a dip and sandwiches all before the sleepy head J awoke!)
It was a lot of fun and very relaxed. We drove down to Rye and had a picnic lunch. The kids loved playing on the beach, rocks and pier.

We arrived in Portsea at about 5 so it was too late to visit the National Park so we just went down to the Pier.

Not quite the end of the World, but the end of Victoria.

Back- Up Plan

2010-06-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

I really liked this movie. Its a little bit different to what I would expect from a mainstream Hollywood made movie. A love interest who is into sustainable organic cheese making? A group who promote homebirth and breast is best and feeding til self weaned? I thought it was really normal and awesome! While others may laugh nervously at all this, I thought it beautiful.

Handmade buttons and a jacket for me

2010-06-07T23:04:00.000-07:00

I wanted to try making some unique buttons for my projects. I at first tried Sculpey III then Premo which I prefer.

Bulky jacket for me from cestari yarn.

Extremely normal

2010-05-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

Its interesting that I am considered extreme or alternative in my thinking especially when it comes to parenting. Maybe when it comes to what society deems normal then I am not normal. But I do what is natural, what is normal and what is right for my family. Maybe it just shows what sort of world we are living in where the natural things are seen as strange and anything that seems normal to me is odd to most. Like breastfeeding, co-sleeping, avoiding drugs and vaccines, birthing at home. These are all normal to me but to some people, these things are not spoken of and when they are its often seen as crazy, wrong, stupid etc.

Society almost teaches us to detach from people. To not trust even from an early age, nobody cares if you cry, toughen up. I personally feel this, I do not get close to people. I want better for my kids. I want them to come to me for a hug, for a chat, have their needs fulfilled. And at a young age wants and needs are practically the same. I can't buy them anything that has more value than what I can give them every day without a sticker price. The unconditional love I receive from them is inspiring to me. They forgive my shortcomings and love me without wanting more than what I can give them. That to me, is just amazing.

So I am extremely normal. I don't hide the way I do things now. I used to...When my daughter was a baby, she so desperately wanted to co-sleep. All I heard was, Put her in the bassinet, don't let her get attached. Feed til one year exactly. Do what you are told, everyone else knows best.

Truth is, Trusting Your Instincts is all the advice I needed. I learned that the hard way.

My boys in their purple Eden singlets. I made one for J so they each have one. Knitted in Cotton Fleece (merino and cotton). It was too challenging getting a photo of them all together on this day so this is as good as it gets.

I made the King of too many soakers another soaker. This one is crocheted sideways giving a stretchy rib. I used Casacde 220 Heathers with Woolganics worsted for leg cuffs and tie. It is very roomy so he has it rolled up. I did 27 rows, with 33 rows it would be way too big. I find this photo comical. He adores playing with the phone and here he has his serious face on.

Colourful hoodie

2010-05-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

I am very happy with this hoodie. Crocheted from sock yarn Noir, so J will have a hoodie for every day wear and easy to wash.

Testing 123

2010-05-26T19:27:00.000-07:00

Been doing a few test knits lately. I made 3 pairs of handwarmers for the little boys out of a 50gram ball.

For justjussi, the Ember cardigan. I made one with a superbulky wool and then another with Folklore.

Wow, what can I say?

2010-05-24T23:33:00.000-07:00

A gift from some friends. Modern Mummas

I have been having some tough times with my boys having asthma and sleep teething issues. It makes for one very tired and drained Mama. The Mamas at MM banded together and got us a nebuliser, funhaler and some lovely gifts. I just can't express how much this means to me. Its just a wonderful expression to me how people can and do care about my family.

Manifesto of the idle parent

2010-05-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

Just because its fun and true. I took out the point about drinking alcohol cos we don't do that.

Manifesto of the idle parent

We reject the idea that parenting requires hard work
We pledge to leave our children alone
That should mean that they leave us alone, too
We reject the rampant consumerism that invades children from the moment they are born
We read them poetry and fantastic stories without morals
We reject the inner Puritan
We fill the house with music and laughter
We don't waste money on family days out and holidays
We lie in bed for as long as possible
We try not to interfere
We push them into the garden and shut the door so that we can clean the house
We both work as little as possible, particularly when the kids are small
Time is more important than money
Happy mess is better than miserable tidiness
Down with school
We fill the house with music and merriment

Tom Hodgkinson is editor of The Idler magazine and author of the best-selling How to be Free and How to be Idle.

Hard times and good times

2010-05-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Again, I need to catch up on blog posts. Our youngest son is a real rambunctious handful! I thought Av was rough, J is even more so. He giggles when jumped on and bangs on things and yells, and throws things. All the while, making me feel life is very full on. Nights are often late and days are sometimes are a blur. I do know I have a toddler. He is breastfed on demand and this is something I have to keep reminding myself is very normal and natural and right for us. Its hard when most of the World (at least the world I live in) disagrees.
He has started eating meals regularly but it hasn't stopped his appetite for boobah.

My daughter is up to standard at school and enjoying her artwork which she does mostly at home. Her teacher doesn't seem very supportive and seems to want her to exceed the grade 5 level in maths in particular. Get faster at answering?! As her parents, we are perplexed and we have told our daughter not to stress too much, and enjoy her drawing.
There is more I would like to say on this but I will leave it for now.

Meanwhile, our eldest son adores maths. He really enjoys anything to do with numbers. He invited us (my mother and I) to the school for a Mother's Day afternoon tea at the school. Av wasn't very impressed with the teachers telling the kids to do things, he exclaimed, "This is not for me." We laughed. Even though he has asked to go to school, its not something he wants to do right now so if I say ' in 10 years' that would suit us all fine. He has been enjoying some old encyclopedias that were given to us. He recognises letters - he found a photo of two sharks and saw the names underneath, he told me that they were the same letters (shark). Its these things he is learning on his own that make me see he is very much capable of learning the natural way.
He has started to ask about his name and knows how it is spelled though he isn't confident in writing his name yet.

As often as we can, we do things as a family. I love the time we spend just doing things on a whim, cos we want to! Today we went to Gisbourne to get some wool for a test knit I am doing for justjussi. At Foodworks supermarket of all places! We went for a little walk and a play at the playground.

Foto Friday - Mutual Adoration

2010-05-14T01:56:00.000-07:00

For me

2010-05-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

My slouch in Woolganics. Originally light green, I over dyed in black. Love it!

My shawler. The pattern was gifted to me by Jordan in the Ravaholics Mother's Day swap. I used Yarn Cafe Polwarth 12ply merino striped with Cascade Eco+ and the hood is Cascade baby alpaca.

Mother's Day

2010-05-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

A very special drawing from my 7 year old. The flowers are special - Morning glory, dandelion, sunflower, lavender, they are all different.

My daughter made me a delicious apple tea cake with help from her Nanna.

Some questions I asked Av (4.5yo)

What is your mum's favourite colour?
Purple!
What is your mum's favourite food?
Vegetables!
What is your mum's favourite thing to watch on TV?
Adult movies! *
What is your mum's favourite thing to do around the house
Clean up!
How old is your mum?
I don't know how much you are. (Screws up face)
What do you like doing with your mum?
I love you, Mum
I love my mum because
That's why....
Because like Dad does scary things!

What else? Mum, ask me more questions!

* Just to clarify I watch adult tv shows like Medium, SVU, NCIS sometimes and I tell Av its for adults.

My kids are awesome. They are honest with me, they tell me when I do wrong by them and they readily forgive me, the unconditional love is amazing. I am always trying to be the best Mum I can be and I think I get it mostly right but the best is all I can do.

I made my Mum a scarf and hat.

Ermeline

2010-05-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

A hoodie with a difference! The pattern is Ermeline which was gifted to me in the MM Ravaholics Mother's day swap. I used woolganics chilli and light blue. Its fun and gorgeous.

Hats and things

2010-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

I have been making a few hats, even a pair of mittens.

J has now found the love for hats and the weather the way it is, its a good thing. Check out those point teeth!
This hat is made in Malabrigo chunky garnet, its a cloche style hat but looks more like a sunhat on J!

A chunky alpaca vest with owl cable. This is quite Milo - esque. Its a newborn size in chunky AL alpaca wool. I love it!

A very cute long sleeved crochet shirt in 4ply acrylic Baby Lustre.

A sweet crocheted sunhat in Baby Lustre 4ply yarn which fits J.

Most Learning Doesn’t Happen At School

2010-05-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

My husband and I were quite impressed with the kids' newsletter this week.

(Andrew Fuller‘s Handy Hints for Improving Learning
Most Learning Doesn’t Happen At School!)
Did you know …
"Children spend only 15% of their week at school!
They spend more time asleep - 33 %
(And some teens combine the two)
But most of their time 52 % is at home, awake, mucking
around, playing, and learning about life
- it’s what they do with that time that is important."

"Most of their future learning also wont occur occur in school. It is estimated that 70% of the jobs that will exist in 2020 do not exist now. It is estimated that 50 years ago a high school graduate left school knowing about 75% of what they would need to know in their working life - today's high school graduate will leave knowing 2%."

{Trying our best as parents to give our children opportunities to learn especially through fun and play.}

Urban Shells

2010-05-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

First CAL for the BDD group on Ravelry. Actually a KAL as well with a knitted scarf as well. I had this in my faves and I was happy that I could do this. Easy but interesting and clever pattern.
I used Cascade Arcadia, cotton angora blend.

The Awesome 4 May 2010

2010-05-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

I meant to make N a singlet for his 7th birthday, but it turned out too big and fit my daughter who is size 14.
I made another in size 4 for N and so now they have one each.

All singlets were knit from the eden's adam pattern from tikki.

Av's yellow and blue blanket

2010-04-28T11:37:00.000-07:00

Av's blanket for his birthday made 6months early. He requested a yellow and blue blanket but I ran out so I added more colours. Its narrow and long but it should still be fine for him to use.

MM Winter swap

2010-04-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

I found it challenging, what could I make for an older toddler who lives in a warmer climate? I decided a singlet and a toy plane. I really loved the set.

We received a wonderful vest which Av looked at and just knew it would fit him, he was rapt.

That's a wrap

2010-04-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

Soaker wrap knitted with Manos del Uraguay wool clasica. It is meant for a small baby and to be felted (fulled). I haven't yet added buttons.

I love rock n roll

2010-04-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Adam's Eden

2010-04-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

Another singlet, this one is a size 6mths, knit in scrap white cotton with Cascade cotton rich DK.

Beautiful boy

2010-04-24T09:02:00.001-07:00

Beautiful boy
Originally uploaded by inakid

My eldest boy turned 7 on the 22nd April. A gentle, sensitive, intelligent and deep thinking young person. Of all my children, he is my most quiet, so alert, soaking up information and learning all the time.
I remember as I baby I used to sing to him, "Close to You"

When he was born, our family fell in love. It was a fantastic time in that sense. But I did have a traumatic birth with him. I know from that experience, I cannot birth in the optimal way with strangers staring at me. I am not a social birther.

When my big boy was not yet a year old, he had his immunisations as according to the schedule. It triggered severe eczema. I am incredibly saddened by how much he suffered and us, as parents, felt so helpless. Contrary to what most people believe, eczema is much more than a skin problem.

He now has mild eczema, mostly on the outside of his elbows and around the knees. He also has suffered with asthma and allergies but he has been in good health in the past couple of years.

So, my boy is 7. I love his enthusiasm and excitement for learning and the way he knows so much and is always willing to share. I like how he wants to help me, and I love how I just know he loves me. I love my big beautiful boy.

Face of Birth

2010-04-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

A documentary set for release in 2011. This will hopefully open up more discussion on true birth and how women can make the right choices for them.

Merimbula family holiday Day 3

2010-04-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

Pancake breakfast on the day we left Merimbula.

The big boys had one each, J had at least one on his own and our girl got another one which she graciously shared with her Dad who would easily had many more!

It was such lovely weather in Merimbula. I brought along jackets and blankets which we did not need. Though the big boys wore their jackets?! My big boy got this jacket for an early birthday present. It is so cool (spot the Rickenbacker bass). Kids have the coolest things these days.

Anyway, it was better weather than I could have hoped for. Not too cold or windy or wet and not too hot either.
We headed back home via Canberra.

The trip took longer because there were several roadworks happening on the mountains and so it was stop start and then we stopped in Canberra for lunch but had to stop early for a toilet break. We stopped at the DFO and my big boy spotted shoes he liked and for $5 I thought it would be fine. Then of course Av wanted a pair too. They didn't have his size so he settled for socks. Actually he was very rapt with the socks. He wore a pair and carried the other!

We stopped in Gundagai and planned to stop in Albury for dinner but then moved on to Wangaratta for a quick dinner.

We had to stop often for power naps, the travel fatigue was an issue. What a trip!

Merimbula Family Holiday Day 2

2010-04-22T18:48:00.000-07:00

Without going into details, I was not feeling my best, so the kids went with their Dad to do arts and crafts in the morning. We then went for a short walk down the hill to the beach. It was beautiful, quiet beach with very few other people there.

J walked all the way down that hill and when it was time to go back to the cabin, he insisted on walked back up. He also insists in climbing into and out of the car on his own. Where is my baby?

Our water confident babies

The boys made a moat and sandcastle with Dad. Then J decided to throw sand. He even chased me with his newly found face of determination. "I mean it!" Also known as Mean Abram face.

The sand was easily imprinted and the waves were coming in and washing it away. My big boy in particular was enjoying writing in the sand.

Merimbula Family Holiday 2010 Day 1

2010-04-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

We started our roadtrip in the early morning on Sunday. The kids were so excited that they could go for a drive in their pyjamas. We stopped in Lakes Entrance so they could get changed and stretch their legs while Dad had a nap.

The kids love going to different places and sleeping someplace different. We stayed at a family cabin minutes from the beach. Colourful birds perched themselves on the verandah.

There was many things to do at the holiday park and only having 2 days there, we were limited in what we could do.

Pajamas

2010-04-22T11:18:00.000-07:00

This is the best indication of the colour of these longies I could get. I love them, they make for great pyjama pants on cool nights. This photo was taken in Canberra where we stopped for lunch. J was watching a man clean the windows.
The yarn is Manos del Uraguay wool clasica in Poisedon. The trim is Woolganics worsted merino. The pattern is my own.

Av in his brother's nest!

2010-04-17T11:17:00.000-07:00

Av in his brother's nest!
Originally uploaded by inakid
Just because I found the photo amusing - it wasn't set up. I don't think they would stay still anyway.
I made a few scrunchies for myself and my daughter from flurry yarn.

Sleep bag

2010-04-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

When I was testing the tikki singlet pattern (originally called Simplicity, now known as eden's adam), I thought it would make a great sleep bag so here I did! It is knitted in Cleckheaton silkee to fit a young infant. I love it very much! Could also work as a dress I think without the drawstring.
Knitted for the tiKKi kal. There many fantastic entries.

Hoodie weather

2010-04-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

Look at these rough adventurous types! J really does not hold much fear.

I used some alpaca and other yarns but its predominantly The Yarn Cafe yarns. I especially like the hood - the yarn is splatter dyed gradient. I added a tassel to the hood. Its fairly lightweight though the arms and the top part of it is heavier.

MM box swap (April 2010)

2010-04-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

What I sent - recycled pencil cases, patterns, sock yarn, fabric, jewellery made by me. What you can't see is the hand made hats, headband and glasses case and more fabrics. Also some fair trade chocolate.

I received some wonderful things including handmade candles, personalised stationary, handdyed cotton from ArteZanz, photo album (I am going to get a few prints to put in it soon), and stitch markers.

Kids and wooden beads

2010-04-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

I loved watching my boys make necklaces from wooden beads. They enjoyed it too.

Hats for a gift

2010-04-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

A couple of hats I crocheted for a friends' daughters. Their eldest is J's age and their youngest was just welcomed into the world. Bub is absolutely gorgeous and Mama is well, though tired, she is trying to keep up the breastfeeding.

NB sock, cocoon, pod, ...

2010-04-11T10:54:00.000-07:00

I made this because its just too cute, looks so warm, and I hope one day to use it! Knitted in Malabrigo chunky garnet.

Sweet knits

2010-04-10T10:41:00.000-07:00

My sweet boy doesn't hate hats any more! He even puts them on himself and doesn't remove them!

He requested to also try on this top which is meant to fit 6-12m. I bought the Hearts for Haiti in support of the Haiti relief effort. Both are knit in Manos del Uraguay Wool Clasica which is fun. The colours are beautiful but its hard to photograph true, the texture is lovely, like handspun and soft too.

Newborn soaker

2010-04-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

Knitted in Malabrigo chunky with one big button to fit a newborn.

Bulky Vest

2010-04-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Bulky Vest J 18m
Originally uploaded by inakid
Knitted from bulky Cestari undyed.

Lil shawl

2010-04-05T08:38:00.000-07:00

Meant for my daughter's birthday, she finally received it on Easter. Her brothers received tee shirts. Crocheted in Woolganics merino worsted.

School's Out

2010-04-02T23:53:00.000-07:00

School's out, not quite forever, but at least a fortnight.
On the last day of school, they held a sports day. Sports days when I was at school was serious business but this was very relaxed. We had a picnic too.
As is tradition, we took the kids out for dinner that night and then played games.

The past week has gone so fast. My husband is home for 4 weeks and he needs the break from his job which is hard labour with excessive manual handling atm and politics which is enough for anyone to leave. He has stuck it out for 10 years and is unsure what is next if he were to leave. Anyway, I am glad he is home to spend more time with us. He had his birthday and we went out sans kids as well as last night for our 11th wedding anniversary which is today.
J had his first night without me. He came back and drank and crashed.
This week we have taken the kids out as often as we could. Playgrounds and even to see "How to train a dragon" at the Drive In were lots of inexpensive fun.

18 Months

2010-03-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

J is now 18 months. He has 4 chunky molars.

They all came through together so I think they have caused him some discomfort, all helped along with boobah I am sure. He is still growing strong on breastmilk. He does eat other foods but he is quite fussy, or should I say discerning, about what he chooses to eat. Sleeps with Mum and Dad, feeding oft during the night, does not believe in daily naps other than in Mama's arms or in the car.

He is very content and a joy. He loves his brothers and sister and has a way of acting much older when they are around, though he is still the baby and cries if he needs to. He doesn't talk but makes plenty of sounds and can communicate nonetheless. He seems to know the Maori vowels AEIOU and laughs when I sing them.

J's hair is getting so long (rat tail) and even has the curls still. He has yet to have a haircut and I am in no rush to cut it at this stage.

J is becoming more aware of his body and though not using the toilet or potty he knows what they are for. He is likely to clean up an accident of his own accord. He loves making a mess (feeding himself or playing in dirt) and thankfully also likes to bathe. He likes to feed himself and drinks out of a big cup though he does have his own "sippy cup".

J likes to be involved in what we are doing. whether it is playing with Mama's wool or drawing like his big sister or just playing on the computer with his brothers. He also wants to go out with Dad whenever he goes out. He will search for his shoes and even if he has no other clothes on, its enough for him!

J likes to walk. We have rarely used the pram and lately I have noticed we rarely use a baby carrier. He likes to push the button when we come to the pedestrian lights. He straddles as if he is many years older, but he is still my baby.

For Xavier

2010-03-15T00:31:00.000-07:00

For my cousin's first baby.
The singlet/ vest is a test knit from tikki.
The hat was crocheted from an idea I had in my mind.

For anyone who would like to use it for personal use, here is how I made it.
(I used 3.5mm hook and 5ply wool/acrylic)
(Worked in DC) Started with 5sts, inc in each st for 2 rows, dc in each st for one row, inc in each st for one row, dc for 5 rows with no inc. Ribbing - alternate fpdc, bpdc for 4 rows

Depth

2010-03-15T00:13:00.001-07:00

Green Neighbours wip cu
Originally uploaded by inakid

Just because I like the photo....
(Neighborly pattern)
Works in progress include 2 hexagon blankets, a soaker wrap, freeform CAL and a singlet for a swap.

Baby shower

2010-03-14T01:24:00.000-08:00

Cong(r)atulations its a girl!

My Mum, my daughter and I celebrated with my cousin's girlfriend who is due with their first child.

My daughter loved the food and talking as well as the games which she did well at, winning a few prizes. It was so nice to hear how informed the Mum -to-be is on birth and that she wants for a natural birth.

She appreciated the gifts I made which is always nice to see.

Growing Up Green

2010-03-10T00:15:00.000-08:00

Sun came out
Originally uploaded by inakid
Another pattern I purchased to support Haiti relief.
Violet.
Knitted in Woolganics worsted.
It will be a great body warmer with our weather being so typically and unpredictably up and down. Hot one day, freezing the next.

Hays Paddock

2010-03-08T00:59:00.000-08:00

Hays Paddock has a playground for children of all abilities. I heard about it a while back and thought it would be worth visiting and the kids would hopefully enjoy a play there. The weather turned and our plans were not to be that day. Instead hailstorms ravaged Melbourne.

We made a detour at the smoke, visited a friend, the sky got dark and we had hail banging down on our car. We didn't realise how big the hail was til I saw photos online. As big as golfballs.

Here, Av holds hail for the first time.

This is at Hays Paddock. We arrived just as the hail came down.

On Labour Day we made another trip to the playground.

The kids had a great time. Of course, J fell asleep and missed out on the fun.