Wednesday, January 15, 2014

6

Our littlest boy is six!  I kept saying to him all day “Are you sure you’re six?  I think you’re tricking us, and you’re really only three.”  He thought this was hilarious, and tried to convince us he really WAS six!  Those six years have gone by so quickly…
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It’s always hard trying to decide what to give Jasper for a birthday present, as his birthday is so close to Christmas.  So this year we decided on something different, and put together a ‘mystery’ holiday for him.  We chose a few days in Hobart, and picked out some fun activities to surprise him with.  I printed out some photos and brochures, and made some cards to glue them in, and wrapped each one up separately.  Just before we got to each activity or place, he unwrapped one to find out what was happening next.  He had such a great time, and we all enjoyed the little holiday!  On his actual ‘birthday’ day I gave him an album full of photos of his holiday.
Off in the car!
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First stop was Richmond, where we stayed in a gorgeous little cottage…with a spa!  Jasper was thrilled.  We checked out the beautiful bridge, and had a wander around the Old Hobart Town model village.
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Then indoor rock climbing – this was one of his highlights.  We stayed there for three or four hours!
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The next day was spent at the aquatic centre, visiting the museum, eating ice cream, and playing at playgrounds…(I can’t believe, looking at these photos, how many layers of clothing we’re wearing!  I’m typing this in 38 degree heat now – hot for Tasmania - and we were freezing in Hobart only last week!)
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On our final day we went to see a performance of Robin Hood in the Botanic Gardens – it was absolutely fantastic.  The boys loved it, and were talking about it all the way home (I think it’s on for another week or so – if you’re local, check it out!) – just so funny!
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Wow…now you really are six!
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0…1…(somewhere in here he lost the mohawk he was born with!)…2…
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3…4…5…
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Happy birthday, sweet cheeky Jasper!  “We always thank God for you…and pray for you constantly.” (Thessalonians 1:2)

Friday, January 3, 2014

Christmas moments

Happy New Year!  Nothing quite like a fresh start – so much potential.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing!” Isaiah 43:18-19

We’re loving the warm(ish) weather, and getting outside as much as we can – lots and lots of bike riding, tennis, cricket and fishing (boys) and walking (me!).  I’m still finding a few minutes each day for sewing though; photos coming soon of a dress I recently finished.  In the meantime, here are a few photos from our Christmas.  So precious to spend time with special people!

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Scary!

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Inspired by watching tennis on television…

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Fun with family!

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Taking care of important business.

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Hope you had a happy new year!

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Happy Christmas!

Nearly time to celebrate!  We’ve been wrapping gifts (super cute gift bow template from here)…

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…having first adventures on the sewing machine (first time on the sewing machine for both boys!  They sewed a Christmas house each, completely by themselves – from selecting the fabric, cutting the pieces, sewing on the button door-handle, and using the machine.  I supervised and hand-sewed the opening closed when they finished.  So proud of them!  House idea from here)…

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…and making biscuits to give to our neighbours.

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All this making and baking and buying and wrapping and decorating is so much fun, and spending time with people we love is so special.  But through it all, we’re keeping our eyes fixed on the real meaning of the celebration! (Gorgeous printable from here)

jesus is the reason for the season

When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.       Luke 2:15-16

We wish you the very happiest Christmas, and a new year full of joy and peace.  Remember that tiny baby born so long ago – born just for YOU!

Saturday, December 14, 2013

catching up…

What a whirlwind the past couple of months have been!  Still not quite over yet, but I can see calmer times ahead.  Here’s a quick update on goings on in the happy nest…

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Niche!  It was an absolutely spectacular day – thanks for coming along!  It was so lovely to meet so many new and returning customers, and Albert Hall looked amazing.  Fingers crossed we’ll be back next year!

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Decorating the tree and watching the Christmas parade…

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Enjoying the gorgeous flowers in our garden…

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Plus lots and lots of sewing!

Hoping that the leadup to the celebration of Jesus’ birthday in your home has been busy and joyful too!