Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year from Australia...

Well 2011 is almost upon us and the festive season is in full swing. Here in Australia we are experiencing devastating floods and ferocious bush fires - such extremes of nature. And although it seems trite I find myself thinking back over the past year. There have been highlights and lowlights and lots in between.

The boys enjoyed their first year of school and by all accounts it was a huge success. They surprised me though, because Harrison was the one with the glowing report. Seems he IS able to stop talking when he tries and he has worked hard on concentrating in class and is a kind classmate. Mitchell is a social butterfly (no surprises there) and needs to work on his organisational abilities, but he is reading extremely well and enjoys maths. We have been blessed with wonderful teachers and great SSOs who have made this past year such a special time. Lets hope 2011 is just as successful.

Jackson has been a joy - he is a happy boy and loves cuddles and food (but not necessarily in that order). He isn't walking yet... but will be soon. He is loving having the big boys at home and falls into an exhausted sleep at 7pm, usually only stirring the next morning. He has started playgroup which has been a lot of fun. He is growing like a weed! Now in size 1 and threatening to burst out of some of his cute clothes. He goes swimming once a week and loves the water. It is hard to believe he is only 15 months old as it seems like he has been part of our family forever.

Kev is still at Air Movements and doing reserve work in Aviation Medicine. He works with a great bunch and we had two Xmas parties to enjoy. He is still an avid gamer, but family commitments don't allow as much time for him to enjoy his hobby - nevertheless he seems to sneak in the odd game purchase here and there (grin). He is due to go away to the USA for 6 weeks mid year if it all works out - was initially hoping we would come too, but that has had to be shelved as we look for a new home.

I am busy with the three boys and looking after our home. Life is never dull, but it IS tiring. Now and then I think this "job" would be far easier if I was 20 years younger! I try to do a bit of scrapbooking, but haven't got the motivation at present. I have a lovely group of friends in SA and with a bit more organisation and planning (on my part) I hope to see them a bit more often. I have managed to get away for one weekend this year with some friends which was lovely... must do that more often.

YES! We are STILL househunting! It is not nearly as much fun as you would imagine. After all three little boys do not want to be dragged around looking at houses. Mitch said yesterday "Mum when are you buying us a house"... to which the only response could be "when Daddy lets me" (grin). We are finding it hard to agree on a place to live, mainly I think because I am keen for a fairly new home or a well renovated old home and Kev is more set on the suburb he wants to live in. Nevertheless we will persist (groan).

The big news in our extended family is the imminent arrival of our beautiful niece - due in approx 6 weeks. Can't wait to have an excuse to peruse the pink aisle at the local shops. Hoping that she doesn't make an early arrival and behaves for her Mum & Dad and big brother Liam.

Apart from that we have just returned from seeing Kev's parents in Queensland. Yes, apparently Queensland is beautiful one day and perfect the next... but NOT when we decide to visit and the region experiences the worst floods in 140 years!!! We spent most of the week inside, venturing out for the occasional swim or to brave the shops, but we had fun. Thankfully the boys received a Nintendo DS each for Xmas and so were happily occupied for many hours. They also loved seeing their Nana and Grandpa. We were joined on the adventure by my Dad and our dear friend Pat. To say it was an interesting time was an understatement. Up until the morning of our departure we were unsure if we would be able to get through to the airport (a 5 hour drive south), but we managed to get there and with plenty of time. Now the post holiday washing and cleaning begins... oh joy.

Well I must get back to the chores - wishing you all the best for the festive season and hoping the New Year will be a time of blessings.

Love Lisa
xx