Judee d's Days of my life!

This is my last post:

2010-05-22T12:15:00.002+10:00

Today is going to be my last post on this blog.
I feel that I have moved on from being a blogger and feel that I have so much in my life going on that I haven't had the time to blog.
Good bye to all my loyal followers and my God keep you all in his prayers forever.
Please stay healthy abd safe.
Love
Judy
xxxx

Thoughts..........

2009-02-16T15:47:00.002+11:00

After such a terrible week here in Victoria it is time for everyone to celebrate.
This is what the bush does.
A bushfire burns everything in sight and then not long after comes NEW LIFE......

The bushfires in Victoria we a tremendous strain on a lot of people, not just those that have lost someone ( my sincere sympathies) or lost property, or fought the fires, helped others in some way be it volunteering or just dropping off goods or donating money, we have been given new life by helping others.
Life must go on and I know it is hard to get over such a tragedy but it is true, life still must go on. As the time we all think that it will never get better but the circle of life shows that it does.

It has my two oldest grandchildren, Taylor and Cassie. They were thinking the other day what it would be like to not have toys, or a house to live in, or more tragically no Mum or Dad, Then out of the blue they got on with their life. Not that they forgot they continued.
May everyone find the light at the end of the tunnel and head for there as there is NEW LIFE.

To my special friend Becky and her partner Darryl, this week also bought about a very hard time for them. After carrying a beautiful little baby for 37 weeks she was born sleeping.
Unless you have gone through the pain of losing a child, I don't think anyone would know how hard it it. My love and thoughts are with them both and may their short time they spent with Amelia Grace give them the courage to grow. Love you both heaps.

After my section of tragedy and love
May you all today go and kiss and love your children and your family as you never know what tomorrow will bring. but remember that it is the circle of life.
Please keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Semi retirement?

2009-01-19T10:27:00.002+11:00

I have been semi retired for about 1 week now and I don't now if its what it is cooked up to be.
What have I done:
Cleaned my house,
cleaned my house
cleaned my house,
looked after my grand kids
looked after my grandaughters friend
gone shopping
made two library bags,
cleaned my house
cleaned my house
cooked two cakes (at this rate I will soon put on heaps of weight)
cleaned my house
ironed, yes you read right, I ironed
washed clothes,
washed clothes
cleaned the house
checked out the internet
Killed two spiders. Wasn't I brave and they weren't just daddy long legs they we dinnersize huntsmans. (well dinner size might be exagerating just a little bit maybe they were the size of bread and butter size plates) lol
waited for bigpond to put on the internet (Now I am still waiting for a wireless modem)
How many times can you clean a house, you ask. Well,
I have had a nine year old grandaughter for the past week and her 9 yo friend over to stayone night, my 5 yo grandaughter stayed over also for two nights, so with all of them, it has made a big tonado through my house, let alone all the washing.
I am going to do some gardening today but it is going to be hot so not sure how long I will stay outside.
I have to start some more exercise otherwise I will end up ten tonne Tessie.
Well I am going to go and find some old clothes and do some gardening.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

2009-01-03T19:20:00.004+11:00

What a lot of news.

First, May the peace and calm of christmas and new year be with you all this time of sharing and love.

second.

I am going to semi retire. Yes you heard right or should I say read right......

As of today 4th January 2009 Arty Pants retail shop closed. We will go online and hence the reason for semi retirement.

We have had people coming into the shop saying they are sorry for us, well i must put everyone right.

Jodie and I are extremely happy that we have at least tried a retail shop, but

the time has come for us to back off a bit. Jodie with her family and me with my champagne and relaxation.

The shop did really well but to be truthful the only people in retail that would make money would be the Landlords.

In this era of internet, I think it is stupid for anyone to open a retail shop.

The prices can be a lot cheaper online as the suppliers sell to online customers at the same price they sell to those that have overheads, hence the lower prices. Customers will be happier. (we will not be one of the greedy type on the internet and we will have lower prices. You also have to take into consideration that we also had to pay exhorbitant rates, outgoings, cleaning, insurance, and then more insurance and garbage collection, maintenance for a shop that is not yours but you still have to maintain it for the landlord, and then when you are finished with it you have to get it back to a better condition than it was when you took over.

You don't have to be tied up with staying in the shop for hours on end. I can be home and undertaking my housework and not having to pay someone to do it for me because I am never home.

I can still have the same customer service as we have had in the shop only it would just mean that we do it via email etc.

I can get a bit of sunshine on the body receiving vitamin d instead of via tablets. and still check for orders while sitting outside.

I do not have to rush out every morning just to open a shop, I can stay at home and wait or then again I can go out and still wait.

I will be more relaxed and hence my husband will be more relaxed and hence a happy family life.

I can finally get my house how I want it. i still have boxes that I have not unpacked and tomorrow it will be 12 months since we moved here.
I can go back to being a grandmother to my four wonderful grandchildren instead of being a grouchy grandmother who is always tired.
I can spend some more time with my children. I know they are all adults now but they are still my children and I love them all to bits.
I can be a mother to jodie again instead of being a retail shop partner. I know we will still be partners, but online it will be a lot more relaxed.

Thanks to all of you that helped us out during our time with Arty Pants Retail Shop, for without your help and encouragement we would not have survived this long in retail.

Thankyou for your support, Jodie and I have really appreciated it and believe me we have taken all the advice.

We had people in the shop today who are sad for us we are no, they can be sad that the shop has closed we appreciate that but do not be sad for us rejoice with us that we now have a life and you in return will still have Arty Pants but only difference will be that it will be online and we will have more time enjoy it with you all.

Thankyou again

Keep smiling and healthy

love

Judy

How time flies>>>>>>>

2008-11-22T13:53:00.002+11:00

I have just spent the week really busy. No not at the shop but I have looked after Andrew and Chelsie yesterday, and andrew Last Friday as well then I had Wednesday off work and had Cassie and took her to kinda on Wednesday. I do so love looking after my Grandkids. Taylor's weekend last weekend and boy she is really growing up. She will be 10 yes that right 10 next Feb. Double digits. Won't be long and it will be uncool to hang around Nannie. At least I have a few more years for the others. At the moment at least they All still think that Bill and I are cool.
Bill has spent more time lately at the Doctors than he ever has. He has had to have some very uncomfortable tests. Results will be back next week when he goes back to the specialist. We will know if he has to have an operation and then spend 6 weeks off work.
We have some big news happening with regard to the business so stay tuned. That is if anyone still reads my blogg as I've been rather slack lately.
It is less than 5 weeks left until Christmas, haven't even started Shopping. How scarey is that.
Winter has come back to Melbourne. Here it is 22nd November and we are lucky if we are going to make 16degrees. The wind is very strong and the rain is coming in stops and starts. I know we need the rain but we don't have to have the cold with it.
Mark and Mel have moved into the bungalow for a short while.
Jodie and Jeff aregoing great and this weekend spending it renovating the girls bedrooms. Including putting up their new beds. Cassie is sooooooo excited, Chelsie doesn't realize what is going on.
Melinda and Glenn had a leak in their ensuite and have ended up with New carpet through their bedrooms and a whole new ensuite.
I will go and leave you with the thoughts of
Christmas is coming.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Spring has sprung!!!!!!!

2008-09-05T14:16:00.002+10:00

Beautiful day and beautifu sun and little chilly but I assume in the sun it would be great. Oh how I wish I was outside on a day like today.
I am at work in a chilly shop. I can't wait for it to get just that little warmer......I can only hope.
I haven't much news at the moment. Life has been boring..... everything is going smoothly. Good I suppose but just a little boring.....
I know, if my mum were here she would say to me that bored people are boring people, so I guess I am boring. Mum would say go and FIND something to do....life is wonderful and there is plenty to do........Yes I know I am boring.
I am going to get on with my boring melodramatic life.
Will post again son, if I am not bored.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Such a lot of news......

2008-08-11T15:49:00.004+10:00

Yes I know, it seems that bloggers throat has been cut and the food hasn't been getting through. Well at least my info.
Such a lot has happened over the past 7 weeks.
My new grandchild Andrew is 7 weeks old and growing more and more each day. He is the spitting image of his Dad. Glenn. He is smiling and such a cutie or should I say sooooooo handsome.
Onto the other grandchildren.
Taylor is 9 and half now and is such a delight. She stays with Bill and I on a Thursday. She tries to get away with heaps but I keep reminding her that we bought up her dad and anything she is trying now, we have already seen before. The ofther day she asked Bill if she could have another icecream, Grandpa said no she immediately asked me and of course I also said no. Her reply to that was damn, it doesn't work anymore........What a devil.
Cassie stays with Bill and I on a Tuesday night. I don't know what it is about Tuesdays but we always seem to be playing games. Either hide and seek, what's the time Mr wolf, or wipeout. I suppose Bill and I are her playthings.
We don't have Chelsie over to sleep on a regular basis as of yet, but I am sure the time will come. I am sure Chelsie has been in this world before. She grabs your attention with the slightest little thing and really tries you......I suppose we'll survive.
I have had a cold for the past 4 weeks and have felt absolutely atrocious. I went to the Drs last week and he said why didn't I come any earlier. My reply was that if I had come earlier her would have said it was viral andthere was nothing He could do, at least this time I got some atibiotics.Still not feeling 100% but am on the mend. Bill also has been sick for the past week. He has the worst bark I have heard for quite a while. Will he go to the dr.....NO.
About 6 weeks ago I found out a friend of mine has Breast cancer. she has started chemo. She is feeling quite ordinary at the moment, but knowing her she will bounce back. She has to stay positive.
Then last week I found out that my 43yo neice has bowel cancer. she will have to go throu chemo as well. My sister is distraught but we as a family have to support not hinder.
Please think of Connie and Julieane and send them both all your strength. Spare a dollar or two for the cancer research and remember that the best cure for cancer is awareness. Check your breasts and if you have any changes anywhere in your body please do something about it immediately.
Well I am going to go and do some more work. I will try to getback earlier that 7 weeks.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Introducing Andrew Bradley.....

2008-06-23T13:08:00.005+10:00

Isn't he just handsome. He weighed in at 9pound. He was a pretty big one. All well.

Bill and I are just so proud.

Keep smiling and Healthy

Love

Judy

Its a BOY!!!!!!!

2008-06-22T13:25:00.002+10:00

Andrew Bradley Hamilton was safely delivered at 2.44pm on Saturday 21st June,2008. He weighed in at 4090gr (9 pound) 51cm length (20.78in) and 34cm head size.
Both Melinda and Glenn are estatic. As for Bill and I, we are pround grandparents again.
Our other three grandchildrens responses were:
Taylor: what's the Bradley for is there two? What colour eyes does he have?
Cassie: It's a Boy, it's a boy! It's a Boy.
Chelsie: She was a sleep and when told said nothing, but what can you expect she is only 15months old.
Parents other siblings:
Jodie: Fantastic,
Mark: Another boy in the family for me to corrupt
Kerry: Congratulations.
Melinda is well and glad that its all over.
Just been shopping and bought, his first football, car, truck and tipper.
and of course some blue items of clothing.
Will share photo's maybe tomorrow.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

I.m going to be a Nanna today.....

2008-06-21T11:06:00.001+10:00

Melinda is in Labour, I will let you all know................I think its going to a longggggg day

How time flies.....

2008-05-14T09:24:00.002+10:00

It has been one month since Mum passed away and I can honestly say it has been really hard. During that time we have also had mother's Day. This was the first Mothers Day that I have not spent with mum. Yes in my entire 54 years. I went to the cemetery early and I was amazed at the array of flowers that were there. It just seemed like a sea of flowers. That was the first of many firsts so I will just have to get on with life. I can hear her saying that to me now. Get on with it. She will always be with me just in the next rom.
The funeral was one wich I a;m sure she and Dad are sitting up there and saying well she did us proud. I did the eulogy. My brother was normally the speaker of the family but has he died 12 months prior I had the honour of speaking. I didn't cry once as I new Jim would never have done that and I gained support from having my three children Jodie, Mark and Melinda standing with me, just by my side. I read a letter that Mum had written approx 15 years ago and in that letter she said she will always be in the next room. Talk to her as if she were there with us and put no special tone in our voice. That letter gave me heaps of strength also. It all went well, a sad day but one filled with lots of golden memories. I am a better person and so is this world because my mum was part of it.
Now for some happier things.
On the 30th April, Arty Pants opened a Specialty Invitation Section. We have all the paper and card and accessories, you could possibly ever want for you special invitation, whether it be a wedding, 21 18 or Golden wedding, we have it. We can even customise your invitation if that is what you would want.
Arty Pants also was an exhibitor at the Picture to Page Expo in Burwood for the first week end in May. Apart from a good weekend we got lots of exposure.
Our Website and forum are back up and running again after some not nice people hacked into it and destroyed our data base for our shopping cart. We have got a lot more secure site. The only problem was that the shopping cart will take a bit longer to put back up.
AP held our Mothers Day sale on Saturday 10th and we got a remarkable response.
Next is our retreat on 23-25th May. We are going to Camp Manyung in Mt Eliza. I am sure it will be fun.
On the personal side.
Melinda has only 4 weeks left to go till her due date. She hasnt had the best of pregnancies but I am sure she will be glad when its all over and she has a little baby to be with her to cuddle.
Jodie and I are giving her a baby shower on Saturday 17th, not sure where i am going to put everyone but I suppose they will fit.
Jodie has been working too hard at the moment. and her girls are sick this week. We took Chelsie to buy her some first time walkers (shoes) it was so funny seeing her walk for the first time in solid shoes.
Mark, well Mark is still Mark. Nothing ever changes for him. He is back working as a plasterer and doing really well.
Bill has been the support and my rock over the last month. Gee I love him with all my heart. Not going to say any more, than that, I love him.
Jodie and I started Weight watchers Last week. We were exactly the same weight for our first weigh in, then with our second, Jodie lost 3 kg and I lost 1.1kg. Different weights but I am still extremely happy with my loss. Soo you will se a trim and terrific Judy. Watch out fella's LOL.
I am going to leave after this marrathon book I have just written and if you are still with me
Please......
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

A Sad Day......

2008-04-15T06:59:00.003+10:00

An amazing woman, one who was like a stamp. She left her mark on all whom she met.

A kind, Supportive, Loving, Cherished, Fun Loving, always the life of the party.

She gained respect from all. The young, the middle aged and the Old. but she also gave respect to all in return.

A woman who would be there for you in need, for that shoulder to cry on, one who was a strict person and and didn't stoop to lower her standards. If she thought it was right she would tell you so, if she thought it was wrong she would also tell you. She always loved us, maybe she didn't like what we did but she would always say she loved us.

She is now gone to a place where peace reigns supreme. She is up there with her devoted Husband Ed, her daughter Valerie, and Son Jim. Her brothers Neil and Bill, her brother in law Eric, her mum and dad. I can see her now. Sitting up there with a champagne in her hand and singing away with her family and looking down on those down here saying I love you all. I am only in the next room. Call me if you need me and I will be there.

This Amazing woman is MY MUM. Marjorie Parkinson

I was so priveleged to have her around me. She was my rock, my all.

It is so hard to lose a mum who has meant so much to you, whom you have loved and had that loved returned a thousand times over.

I am priveledged and honoured to say I was with her to the very last, holding her hand.

She died on Saturday, 12th April 2008 at 4.30am at Somercare Aged Care Facility. A strong lady to the very end.

Mum, I love you and always will and I already miss you. Please be there for my call.

I have lovely memories and they are definately golden.

It was a privelege to be her daughter.

This photo was taken on 1st April 2007.

Tell your Mums you love them, tell them that you care, show them that you are here for them and let them know that you repect them for who they are. They are a special part of your life. Cherish them forever.

This all I will say at the moment,

Mum's funeral is on Thursday 17th April.

Life must go on and that is what she would say.

Next week I will return with photos of my holiday in Qld, I promise.

Keep smiling and healthy

Love to all the mums out there.

Judy

Such excitement for Arty Pants

2008-02-21T12:05:00.002+11:00

Jodie and I are just so excited. Arty Pants has been nominated for an ABIA (Australian Bridal Industry Academy) Award. To nominate Arty Pants for the ABIA Awards, please go to www.abia.com.au and select ABIA Brides or Click Here for a direct link to the voting form.
I will write more later.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

Yes I know I'm just slack!!!!!!!

2008-02-19T12:42:00.002+11:00

Hi all.
Here I am again to give you a run down on my life and what has been happening.
Bills had a birthday,
Melinda and Taylor have a birthday tomorrow.
Bill and I along with Taylor and Cassie, leave for a family holiday to QLD on Sunday.
It is also to be a business trip as I am popping in to see a few suppliers while I'm there. Bill and the Girls will just have to go to the park or maccas.
We are only going up as far as Caloundra on the Sunshine coast fo a couple of days. We are taking the girls to Australia Zoo, then we are heading back to the gold coast for 1 week. Of course I have been told that we are going to dreamworld, Movie world, wet and wild, seaworld andI think we are going to go to Currumbin.
The shop is going great and at long last the cleaners for the centre have been sacked and new ones started today. The old ones were supposed to be here twice a week, well if their cleaning was twice a weeks worth then for the amount we paid the centre should have been a lot cleaner that it was.
Well I arrived at 9.30am today and the New cleaners were there and I could see a difference then and believe me it is 12.50pm and they are still here. The musty smell has gone already and replaced with a clean smell.
I am just so happy. We kept our shop clean but we were let down by the arcade. Well no more.
From my last post I had a bit of a grumble about the sad dreary things happening in todays society, I must admit I did get onto my soapbox and go on and on, but that's gone. I am sorry if any of you found it boring.
I bought a new camera. This one was to replace the one that was stolen from the shop last August. Finally got around to it. So maybe I will be able to brigten up my blogg with photos. I intend taking lots on the trip.
I am also taking the laptop to I might be able to blogg while i'm away and maybe update you on our journey and excitement.
For my overseas visitors to my blogg, I hope I will be able to give you an insight on some Australian Sights and theme parks.
Well until I blogg again
Please keep smiling and stay healthy and look out for the new exciting journies of the Davis family.

Judy

What about Happy Things!!!!!!!

2008-01-29T20:18:00.000+11:00

I mean it......... How dark and dingy is this world and the media. All we hear about is who died, who killed this person or that person, Who stole from this person or that person, who called the police about his girlfriend and then refused to let them in.......the list goes on. What about all the happy things that have happened in the last week. Surely someone has some happy news....
Come on people stop mining other peoples business and start tell some happy things. Maybe then the media will give up if we don't watch or read about it, maybe people will stop killing other people, maybe people will stop stealing from others, all because they don't get the recognition. Maybe Corey from the wild Narre Warren Party will stop acting as if he's a film star and maybe then the world will become a better place to live.

How about some happy things.
Let me know the happiness surrounding you all.

Remember to smile and love and then the whole world will smile with you.

STOP being so dark and dreary and chear up and love what you all have.

YOUR LIFE!!!!!
Make the most of it.

Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

New Year, New House!

2008-01-09T20:57:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year to all. I hope you didn't indulge too much.
What has been happening in the past 9 days. Well Grab a coffee as it is a loooonnnnnng post.
Got your coffee. ok
1. I packed all our things and lots of them and moved in to a beautiful little but extremely comfortable house. It soon became our HOME We officially moved on the 4th January, with our friend Jason moving with his moving truck. He is such a Godsend. Hot weather and all but we finally had everything moved and sort of sorted out by 10pm. The fella's partied on until approx 1am. I am not sure what the neighbours thought. We again have introduced ourselves well. Bill and I got to bed approx 1.30am. Or should I say fell into bed.
2. Bill had me up at 7.45am on Saturday morning as our new fridge was to be delivered at 8am and Ididn't want to scare them off with a look of me in bed. (especially as we slept in the lounge, until we set up the water bed).
3. Right on the dot of 8am the truck arrived and we at last had a new fridge. We got an upside down one. The fride at the top and freezer at the bottom.
4. Then it was down to more unpacking, and unpacking and unpacking. What a mess, but we finally got it done. Well most of it.
5. We went shopping to fill the fridge and freezer as we had let a lot of things run down in the cupboard. Well approx $300.00 later and we were done. Whew.
6. We slept again on the mattress (air mattress) as we really wanted to freshen up the paint work. But Bill and I decided on Sunday morning that the paint was just right and suited our colourings. So no sooner had we decided than the bed was installed. All we needed was for the water to heat up. No won't be sleeping in the bed again tonight. I think that made it 8 nights on the air mattress. It certainly was a sight seeing Bill and I climb in and out of bed. Glad it was only the two of us watching.
7. Monday was my birthday. I got a cordless drill (wtf) from my darling husband. Well when we went to Bunnings on the Sunday there was a cheap cordless drill and I asked Bill to buy it for the shop, so he told me it was for my birthday.lol..He is going to buy me a new camera later. so really he isn't that horrible.
I had Taylor stay overnight on Sunday and then Monday morning Jodie dropped off Cassie and Chelsie, so i looked after all my three grandaughters. It was really a great day. I sort of pottered around the house while at the same time looking after the girls..
Taylor Cassie and I made Jelly in small cups for dinner that night. They enjoyed being able to help me.
After Chelsie woke from her nap we headed for the park that is just around the corner. I didn't have a stroller for Chelsie so the Girls and I decided that Chelsie would fit into one of the Dolls pushers. So off we went. Taylor pushing Chelsie in the dolls pram and me holding Cassies hand. I wish I had my camera, I think it would have made for some great Scrapping.
After approx 1 hour at the park and tears later from Cassie not want to go home we did
I put on the roast beef (hoping that the oven would work) It cooked to perfection, then there was the vegetables. The Jellies were set so as I had made two too many I let the girls have one each and Chelsie ate half of her one.The Girls then started pestering me for a bath. (We have a spa bath in the new house. I told them they could have a bath at 5pm. I forgot that Taylor can tell the time and I was asked to run it right on the dot.
For Dinner we had Jodie Cassie and Chelsie (Jeff was sick), Mark and Mel and Taylor, Melinda and Glenn, Jason, Bill and I. It all went without a hitch and I think everyone enjoyed their meal. (and the Jelly of course. Then it was birthday cake time. Cassie told Jodie that I had to have a Dora cake. So Jodie organised a cake and candles and i also had Dora the Explorer on the top. Cassie thought it was great.
Everyone left at around 9/10pm and Bill and I went to bed. I must say I thoroughly enloyed my birthday, I enjoyed looking after the three girls and I enjoyed cooking dinner and I enjoyed have my family around me. A great start to my next year.
WORK
As for work. I went into the shop on the 2nd (we had a big sale start and it went off with a bang) but then in the afternoon I left Jodie and Jenny and went home that was the start of my moving holiday.
Well I went back to work officially on the 8th and even though I was so busy over the holdiays and will moving I still enjoyed going back to work. (call be stupid if you like but I did).
Holdiays over and back to the girndstone but I am much more realxed than I was in 2007.
Well I think I will have bored you all to bits but I will try not post too big a post next time, but you all know how hard it is for me.LOL

Well I am going as i think it is time for bed, you all know that the elderly need their beauty sleep.
Until next time.
Keep smiling and healthy
Love
Judy

Last day of 2007!!!!!!

2007-12-31T10:15:00.000+11:00

A round up of 2007 in a nutshell:
Great year with a few sad moments but looking forward to 2008 as I can feel that it will be an even better year.
Why you ask? How does she know this?
My answer my dear friends is this.........

Bill and I love each other and we have a wonderful family. My life evolves around my family. The support I receive from Bill and the rest of my immediate family is something very special.
I have a new grandchild arriving and as you all know my Grandchildren and children are my life and I love them all
Moving into our new home.
I will be 54 and a proud 54yo at that..............
I will lose weight and then I will become a healthier person.
Arty Pants has got lots of exciting BIG things planned.
I have wonderful friends. Remember friends are like stars. You don't always see them but you know they are ALWAYS there.
I don't know yet but I just know...lol

Have a wonderful New Year. Please stay safe.

My wish for you all is "2008 brings you all peace health and happiness."

Keep smiling and healthy and see you all again in 2008.

Judy

Christmas Wish

2007-12-23T11:50:00.000+11:00

This will be my final post for 2007.
My wish for everyone is Peace, Love and lots of Family and friends to share this happy season with.
What do I want for Christmas? I get asked this from my family.......
The answer: to have them around me, for the day to be happy with lots of love and peace, to be able to see the faces of the Grandchildren as they open their presents, to listen to what comes from their innocent mouths and know that that is what Christmas and having a loving family, is all about.
Enjoy every moment and please stay Safe and look forward to seeing you all again in 2008.
I read these words on Ngaire Bartlams blogg They came from her heart and with peace and love and I feel it is very appropriate for this time of year, so please sit back with a wine and enjoy the read..

"So my Christmas wish for you , dear Reader, is :to see the lights in your life.... and not the shadows. To embrace to fact that you are loved.To rejoice that life is good, and that you have the power to change what is not good. If you have loved ones safe , and food in the fridge, and have hope for the future, then you and me are among the most wealthy people in the WORLD. And THAT is a GIFT, baby!!!
And so.....Whether you will spend Christmas at huge parties with huge gifts, or at home with loved ones and a good meal. Whether you are ready, willing and waiting for Christmas, or dreading its arrival.Whether you believe in a higher power, or simply in the power of yourself.However you choose to spend this holiday season, may it be....... your best yet.
Joy, Happiness, Love, Fun, and ALL the GOOD things to you, and those you hold dear.
But of all these wishes for you, my biggest wish for you , dear Reader,is peace. Real SATURATING peace. "

Ngare Barlam

Please keep smiling and healthy and again Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Love

Judy

Only 7 more sleeps

2007-12-18T21:01:00.000+11:00

til Christmas day. I get so excited. I think it is because I sit back and listen to all the little kids. They all a just aweinspired about this big man in a red suit.
The Christmas Lights all around and the Carols being played in the shopping centres always makes me realize that Christmas is just around the corner.
I do not agree with Santa being in the shops so early no do I agree with all the comercialism about Christmas but giving seems to be a better gift to me than receiving. Don't get me wrong I do enjoy a present but it doesn't have to cost the world and if someone has put some thought into it that means more to me than anything really big.
Christmas seems to hold a magical and mystical feel about it.
Peace and goodwill to all.
I still have some shopping to complete and hopefully I will be able to do that either tmorrow or Thursday.
It is my mums 88th Birthday on Thursday. We didn't think that she would make 58 let alone 88. Quite an achievement for her. She is the oldest living relative on her side of the family.
On Saturday I have a birthday party to go to for my niece Georgina. She is 4. On Saturday it is also Mark's new Girldfriends birthday.
Then Sunday it is Cassie's 4th Birthday. She is having a party on Sunday night. She is very excited about her birthday.
Then on Tuesday (yesssssssss Christmas Day it is Jodies Birthday) I don't know what it is with all these birthdays around Christmas but Happy Birthday to all having birthdays at this time and I hope that you all enjoy your special day.
I am looking forward to having some time off work from Christmas Day until I return on the 2nd January. The only problem is that Bill is still going to be working. Although he will have off on Christmas Day and then New Years day.
I am finishing this post with all my wishes to you all for a wonderful Christmas. May you all enjoy you families and friends and may peace and love follow you all always.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

I have very big happy happy happy news..........

2007-12-06T09:31:00.000+11:00

I wanted to save this for its own special post so this is why I am poosting again.

I AM GOING TO BE A GRANDMOTHER AGAIN.

Melinda and Glenn are expecting their first child in June 2008. They are both just so over the moon.
Bill and I are also quite excited.
Families seem to grow so fast.
Bill and I were married in 1974. had out first child in 1976, second in 1979 and third 1982......
then our first grandchild 1999, second 2003, third 2007 and now a fourth in 2008.
How excitement.
As I said in my last post .....You never know what is around the corner...So be prepared.....It is not always bad news....
Keep smiling and healthy
Love and smiles
Judy

What can I say but ...................

2007-12-06T09:11:00.000+11:00

Since my last post

Mark had a seizure at work. At 28 and he had his very first one. He went down like a tonne of bricks.. He has an appt at the seizure clinic in Jan. until then he just has to wait. He was informed at work that unless he can get a clearance certificate from the dr he is not allowed back on site. So what does he do for money?????????? Christmas is coming up and he has a daughter to buy pressies for........
Last night Jodie Bill and I went to an award night for Hampton Park Networking Group. We had a lovely meal and drinks and the powerpoint presentation was great to see all that had been accomplished over the past year. Then it was time for award.
ARTYPANTS received a framed certificate for it's help behind the scenes.(Artypants (Jodie) did all the designing for the posters and large signs and was a sponsor for last years festival. This year apart from supporting the group we also did any of the photocopying required during the year and we printed the certificates for the awards night. Even though we are no longer in Hampton Park. We started in Hampton Park and we have a lot of customers who have supported us and we will not desert them. We now will also be concentrating on Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce but will keep our heads in at Hampton Park.
As Secretary for the group I also received a Certificate and a gift from them for my support as secretary. The gift I received was a kneaded angel. It is approx 6 inches high and is made from bread dough and glue. It so cute.
We are moving homes early January and from now until then I will be packing. This along with trying to organise Christmas is just going to be a hoot....lol
My mum had another fall on Sunday...It look like she has broken a rib. This just goes with the broken pelvis and broken wrist... all in approx 13 weeks not bad for a lady who is nearly 88yo. She seems quite healthy apart from the breaks.
I also have become a great great aunty. My great nephew Benjamin has a little boy Jett Phoenix. He was born last Wednesday 28th November. He and his Mum and Dad are healthy and I think his Nanny Robyn is still floating on Cloud nine. My sister Valerie would have been just so proud to become a great grandmother, it is unfortunate that she is looking down on hime from that wonderful cloud up above. That makes my mum a Great Great grandmother Wow

I am going to go and will leave you with the thought....
You never know what is around the corner.....so be prepared

Keep smiling and healthy
Love
Judy

What weather

2007-11-21T19:26:00.000+11:00

Boy have we been having some extremes. Monday it was 36degrees celcius and Tuesday 37 then today Wednesday down to a top of 15. Go figure. But it was a relief from the heat.
I worked Mon, Tues and today I had the day off. I sort of bludged......... Yes I really did not much. I headed to the shopping centre after lunch as I had to excange some clothing I had bought for mum. It was tooooooo small. Boy I think it was more bother than what it was worth. One lot of clothing I had the receipt for and the other I didn't. I ended up getting it sorted but only bought her two pairs of summer pants. (1 Long and 1 short) I couldn't get any tops as they were all for the real youngies nothing that would be suitable all t-shirt types, so I didn't get any tops, I got some socks and a couple of singlets. So that should keep her going until Christmas.
I came home and Bill was cooking dinner. Usually I cook on my day off but he beat me to it. What a great husband.
Now I am doing some final things on the computer and then I am sitting and relaxing some more. I can't believe it.
This weekend Jodie is off to a scrapbooking retreat (Friday to Sunday) so I am manning the shop all weekend. Including the crop on Friday night and then up early Saturday and then back again on Sunday. Oh boy it sound very daunting. But I suppose I have done it before so whats the difference.
No other news on the home front, but will keep you informed if any pops up.
Thanks everyone for popping by, but please leave a comment, I am starting to feel a little unloved.
Keep smiling and healthy
love
Judy

2 posts in under a week

2007-11-16T13:53:00.000+11:00

Imagine that, I have been quite busy but this week I decided that I will find time to post.
After my busy week last week with dr's appts, I am looking at that no news is good news. I haven't heard the result of the mamogram, but the dr hasn't phoned so I am not phoning him.
This week has flown. I suppose when you get older the time flies quickly.
I have commenced my Christmas shopping and only have a few items to get to cover the kids, then as far as everyone else is concerned I will worry about them later.
We are having Christmas lunch at our place this year and then for dinner we will have everyone. So I can see a very busy day ahead of me.
My mum had another fall on Wednesday, but again no breaks so I suppose this will be her life at the moment. She is very frail.
As far as the family are concerned all is well with them all.
Jodie Jeff Cassie and Chelsie are doing really well. Chelsie is sort of crawling and has four teeth. She certainly knows everyone by showing us a beautiful smile when she sees you, Cassie is Cassie. She is looking forward to her four year old kindergarten next year. She certainly is ready for it. She stays with Bill and I once a week and runs the house when she is with us.
Mark and Taylor. Mark commenced a new job last week. At the moment it is only casual, but hompefully it will turn into a full time. Taylor seems to be really happy at the moment. She has been going to a smaller school for nearly 3 terms and has adjusted really well. She stays with Bill and I every Thursday night and then once a fortnight she stays for the whole weekend. She also runs the house when she is there.
Melinda and Glenn. Well I can't say toooooo much at the moent, but will soooooon. I promise.
Bill Well Bill is bill and still his easy going self. I love him just so much.
The shop is going really well. I actually completed a page last week so hows that.
We are having a sale at the moment. We need to turn over some stock to enable us to get a stack of new products in.
We are closing the shop on Christmas eve and will reopen on the 2nd January. This will at lease Jodie and I to have a break, even though it is only a small time.
Well I am going to go and leave you all with
Enjoy every day, as life is too short.
Keep smiling andhealthy
l
Judy

Here I am again.

2007-11-10T16:15:00.000+11:00

I haven't got lost, I have just been extremely busy as usual.
What with work, personal life, dr's appts and argueing with my dr, I am exhausted.
Work has been chaotic. Today Jodie held the First Arty Pants Birthday Party for a young 13 year old. We had 8 plus the birthday girl and all went extremely well.
We have also beeen holding our November clearance. We are trying to clear old stock to make way for a lot of new products.
My Personal life has been nothing out of the norm, except lately it is just mixing work and pleasure. It will only get worse with Christmas Silly season approaching.
Then onto Drs appt. I got told off by my doctor because I hadn't had my recent mamogram. Yes for someone who preaches that awareness is a cure, I have not upheld my end of the bargain. And for you who I have been preaching to....I am really sorry. My Dr tells be that it is not good enough and then my husband gets on to the band wagon then so do all the family and then do our customers and most of all Jenny. Again I am really really sorry. Yesterday I went and had my Mamagram and then I had to have an ultrasound. It seemed to take so long,
but I suppose I forgot. Well anyway it is over again for another year. I will get the results next week.
Now I have said I am sorry, don't expect me to do it again.lol
My Mum had another fall last weekend, but luckily this time she didn't break anything. When I told her I didn't know what we were going to do with her with her falls, she told me that the nurses are exagerating and that she DIDN"T have a fall. I thinks she must have forgotten. Oh well no harm done. Mum has put on so much weight in the last 12 months. When she entered the nursing home she weighed only 45 kg. Before she broke her pelvis she was 62 kg and now she is 59.5kg. But she looks so healthy
I used to have trouble getting clothes to fit her as she was under a size 8(ladies) now I have to buy size 14's, how's that for a change.
Well I think I have given you a run down of my life lately So I am going to love and leave you all.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

I thought it was time.....

2007-10-14T20:42:00.000+10:00

I should post again.
Been quite slow the past few weeks, it is about time that things slowed down for us.
Jodie and I went to paperiffic on Friday. Boy was that an experience.
Two prams later, hundreds of people and mad scrapbookers who didn't think that we should have had our prams.....You can imagine my reply to one lady (who by the way was about the 5/6th person) I told her in no uncertain terms that, 1. we had paid to come in and no one said that we were not allowed prams, 2/ If it wasn't for the kids where would scrapbooking be as most people scrapbook children, and last bust not least 3/ These children were the up and coming scrapbookers of the future and they have a right to learn about the craft. She didn't like me telling her off and walked off in a huff.
There were ladies who were so impatient to get somewhere that they would step over the kids in the prams just to get to the other side. Didn't want to wait for us to move. Even if we wanted to move we couldn't because of the crowds. We met up with Bec and Andrea and then we all took it in turns to go down the aisles and we left the kids at the ends. A much better idea.
I thought they should have had it at a better location, as it is always too busy for a small place and I think this year the location was even smaller. I didn't get the opportunity to sit and do any make and takes but I stood and watched a few and got some good ideas. Then it was time to head for the Trade event. It was great to put a face to a name. A lot of our suppliers we talk to on the telephone but do not see them in person, but Friday was great. New goods and it is sometimes great to see the goods in real life. Sometimes the computer does not do them justice.After buying a small number of things I realised that entry, parking and food cost more than I spent inside. I came home with $20.00. Jodie and I got back to the shop around 6pm and i helped set up for the crop Friday night then I said I would go home as I was going to open the shop early on Saturday due to the Cranbourne wave off for the moto GP.
I was home about 10minutes when the Nursing home rang to say that mum had had a fall and was being taken to hospital as they thought she had broken her wrist. I go to the Hospital and waited, and waited and waited. We were told that because she was not an emergency case we would have to wait. In the end I asked to nurse for some pain medication for mum, and she told me that she would try and see a senior dr, as the younger ones will not order medication unless the patient had bee seen by them. Approx 5 hours later mum got her pain medication and also an authorisation for her to have a x-ray(still no doctor). Mum had the x-ray and 1 hour later after at last seeing a doctor, it was confirmed that she had broken her wrist and had an impacted fracture. (This means that it was not sitting in the right place so would have to be fixed under anaesethic(sp?) but wouldn't be able to know for sure untill 6am Sat Morning after a consultation will the orthopaedic specialist. They wanted her to stay in hospital but after the last episode in hospital (six weeks ago)I didn't like this idea and and suggested that I take her back to the nursing home where she would be much more settled and then if necessary they ring to get her back in. I didn't like the idea also about an anaesethic(sp?) especially at her age.
It was agreed that she go home and we do it my way. I got her back to the NH at 4am and by the time I got home it was 4.45am so much for me opening the shop early. As of today we still haven't heard from the hospital, so mum's own dr will asess her and handle it. She seems to be coping quite well.
Thankfully Jodie opened early and Bill drove me down at approx 9am. It was quite an experience, watching all the motorbikes in the main street of Cranbourne. There were people everywhere. The Bikes had backed up for approx 4 blocks and there was entertainment and all. I expected it to be rather noisy when they all took off but no not so bad. They were waved off by Mike Doohan. The kids all had checkered flags and Aussie flags. They were quite excited. Then after they had gone the street was cleared and back to normal, quite astonishing. Then tonight after the race the amount of bikes, busses and cars coming back from Phillip Island was spectacular. The street was again lined with people. The kids out again waving flags. Jodie got lots of photos.
Well here we are to tonight again and I am ready for a sleep. So I am going to love and leave you all.
Please stay safe and love you kids and families. Tell them all that you love them Life is too short not to say those 3 small words "I LOVE YOU"

Long week!!!!

2007-10-03T18:31:00.000+10:00

My FIL's funeral was held last Thursday. I think we gave him a fitting send off. Very emotional but very fitting for him. One of the songs was The Old Man sung by the Fureys. The first time I heard this song was two months after my own father passed away, when Bill and I went to see the Fureys in concert. I cried all the way through and last Thursday was no different. It has some beautfiul words and very fitting for a Father who has helped their children through thick and thin.
Friday was Mark's Birthday, 28 and still maturing. I think he enjoyed his day. We had dinner for him on Sunday night when all the family got together. Bill and I are in our element when all our children are together. It is great to see them all interacting well together.
Sunday Bill and I went to the nursing home to see my Mum, unfortunately I think she is going to be the next, although we never know. She is still unable to walk due to her fracture of her pelvis and I think she will never be able to walk again. But you never know Mum may fool us all. She seemed quite contented but still confused. At one stage whe said did i know that Judith's husband has a job at last ( I was quite shocked, as I am Judith and my husband has never been without a job since I have known him. So I am not sure who she was talking about) I asked her if it was bill but she said no I can't remember his name. So who knows.... aS least she is contented. Still not the life that she would want to live. Maybe this is not the place to state that I believe in euthanasia(sp?) but too bad. Since my father had alzheimers and he lingered on for years I have been a supporter. I knew it was not what he wanted but I couldn't do anything about it. and again Mum although contented and in her own little world, it is still not what mum would want. From such intelligent parents to people who have to have their arses wiped, not very pleasant. I get onto something better, sorry to waffle on.
Jodie was sick Tuesday (yesterday). but Today I have had the day off and it has been FANTASTIC. I even cooked dinner (meatloaf), I finished all the washing, drying and folding and still had time to myself. i feel quite relaxed at last.
I am going to go and enjoy the last of my day off, back to work tomorrow.
I hope this finds you all healthy and please keep smiling.
love
Judy

RIP Frederick Donald Davis

2007-09-22T21:16:00.000+10:00

My FIL Fred Davis passed away today aged 86. He was taken to hospital yesterday morning at around 4am. When we saw him yesterday he was in a semi conscious state and breathing quite laboured. Today when DH rang the hospital they said they didn't expect him to last the day. He died from pnemonia. He is know sitting up on that bright star with his wife Betty. He is looking down on his family and telling us he is happy and looking after us all as usual.
My DH (Bill) is holding up well, but just more quiet than ever.
Even though they are old you sometimes expect that they will live on forever, but no We all have to go at some stage.
Not sure of the funeral date as yet.
He is notin pain now and breathing well at last.
Enjoy eternity Grandpa (this is what we all called him, I suppose it stuck from when we all had our kids and referred to him while they were around.)
Love all those that you have around you and never forget to tell the ones you love just that, that you love them. Thank your parents for what they have done for you and never leave words unspoken as it may be too late .
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

I've been a baaaaaad girl.......

2007-09-11T19:01:00.000+10:00

Jodie informed me tonight that I had spelt Chelsie's name incorrect. I am not sure where but if I have I have to correct it You spell her name CHELSIE.....I am so sorry Jodie and Jeff and of course Chelsie. Am I forgiven?
I am also sorry that I haven't blogged lately.
What has been happening........
Days seem to come and go very quickly. I think it might be that I am getting old.
I am sick of being sick. I have had a cold for the past few weeks, ever since the opening of the new shop. Maybe I'm working too hard.
I am always tired. Maybe not getting enough sleep.
AM I happy? Yes, I have the best family out and I love you all so very very much.
What more can an OLD, HARD WORKING, TIRED lady want out of life.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

What's been happening.????????

2007-08-19T17:43:00.000+10:00

The last week has been rather hectic for me.
Saturday last week, we had a great day in the shop, when it slowed down at about 4.20pm I decided I would take a small break and play solitaire on the front computer. BAAAAAAD idea, I heard the back door of the shop open and close and I thought it was Jodie, but when Jodie didn't appear I got up to investigate. I saw a person wearing a black windcheater with a hood heading out the door. I immediately ran, but no one was there. I thought I was going crazy, until I came back in to the office and realized by handbag had gone, I rang the police and while I was waiting I then realized that my laptop had also gone. So handbag with money, d/licence, medicare card, bank cards visa cards and my working with children card had all gone with my bag. It wasn't the money but more the cards and all the running about applying for new ones, I was puzzeled as to what I had in my bag, as I knew it was rather heavy, and I thought but my purse and money wouldn't weigh that much. It wasn't until Sunday late morning that I remembered that my digital camera and my card were also in the bag. My card had all the photos of Melinda's wedding that I took. I know I have the professional ones but these were the personal ones of the reception. Bugger. Can't cry over spilt milk and too late to remember to lock the back door, and too late to not leave my handbag in clear view. I can only say well I'll have to start again. At least we were insured for the replacement of the laptop, the camera and by bag and purse but its just a pain. To know that you have been violated. As the police said I was lucky that I didn't happen to go down to the office while he was there. He could have had a knife or anything, so I suppose I am lucky. Maybe I should buy a tatts ticket.
Then everything going really well the past week with the shop and again on Saturday arfternoon at approx 4.30p.m I had to ring the police. This time we had a 13 yo girl dissappear from the shop. Finally after 20-30minutes of looking with her mother we found that she had walked home. I think last night I should have had a stiff brandy. My heart was racing quite fast with all the drama. I have decided that next Saturday I am going to be a lot more aware and nothing is going to happen.
That tatts ticket is really looking good. What do you think? It can only get better.
Well during the week Laura (customer of Arty Pants) had a baby boy, so congratulations to Laura and Dave and Kaytie on the safe arrival of Luke, your precious son and brother. Maybe a scrapbooker in the making.
Still waiting on news from Chrissy. She it due I think either today or tomorrow. Good luck Chrissy and Scott, can't wait to hear the good news.
Our first real full week of classes in Cranbourne. Started Sunday with Jodies 2in2, Andreas doodle it and transparency, Becs Staxs of cards and Jenny's beginner class, only one to wait on is The Kidz Klassz that begin next Saturday with Fathers day items. The other classes have just taken off and well recieved and so the kidz klassz have lots of bookingzzzzzzzz. Shae has done a sample for the Penz and the Canvaz klazzes still going to do the sample. If I haven't put in enough zzzzzzzzzz I just thought I would add some more because I think it is nearly time for me to go and relax and then go to zzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy.

Time for another!!!!!!!!!!

2007-08-13T20:45:00.000+10:00

No I am not going to rant and rave, its no use crying over spilt milk. Saturday I was sitting at the shop, and I heard the back door go. I thought it was Jodie coming in, as she said she might come in. No one came , so I got up and as I was walking up the back, I saw in the mirror in the class room a figure of a person wearing what I think was a black windcheater with a hood. I immediately ran. but when I got there there was no sign anywhere in the corridor, so I went back inside and found that my handbag was not there. Stupid me had forgotten to lock the back door. but then I realized that it was not just the handbag, but my laptop. I had only had it for about 4- 5 weeks. Rang the police and waited. Then I rmembered that I had cash in the h/bag as well. that was a bummer but cancelling all the cards and getting new ones and having to pay for them was what I am upset about. The police informed me that the computer would have been sold withing 1 hour of taking it, and it was a windfall for them, but not much I can do. After a restless night Saturday, I was thinking that my h/b was rather heavy, what did I have in it. Then Sunday Morning I remembered. MY Digital camera, and worst of all I had purchased for Melinda's wedding a bigger memory stick (1gb) and all the photos were still on the stick. I now do not have a camera OR THE PHOTOS. Thats is what makes it worse. I have the professional photos but the photos on the stick were from the reception. What a bummer.

I have spent all day on the phone cancelling all the cards and getting replacements but it sure doesn't help. I also have contacted the insurance they were supposed to email to me the claim form but so far nothing has turned up. Will ring again tmorrow. I have calculated approx $2500 - 3000.00 gone. in goods and cash. Well I suppose that is what insurance is for, thank god.

We have had a very busy few days at the shop and the classes are going wild. Jodie had a class yesterday and she had 13 booked in. All seemed to have a great time. Well done Jodie and thanks to Bec and Andrea for helping out.

Good luck to Andrea, Jenny and Bec who have classes booked for the next week.

Kids classes are slowly starting to fill up and Shae and I are doing the class samples on Friday night. Wish us luck.

Jodie has been very busy organising the monthly kits and I must say they are just scrumptious. Everyone who has purchased them has been raving.

Another thing that has been going wild is the mystery packs. we have people buying one then coming back for more.

On the home front: Mark is going great and his leg is slowly healing, Jodie has been busy with the shop and her two children being sick and now Jeff is sick, so she is snowed under with sickness. Glad she seems to be staying well. Melinda also has had a sick husband thankfully she is ok. Although Her, Jodie and Bill are a bit upset at collingwood being defeated by RICHMOND.

Bill well he had had my car resprayed. I do not drive around in an old taxi but a new blue car, a bit different to a mottley yellow car. I wonder if it will go faster......even though it is not red.

I am leaving you all here with the thought it is not what you have in material good but what you have got in your family protect them.

Keep smiling and healthy

l

Judy

I'mmmmmmmm soooooooooo sorrrrrrrrrrrryyyyyyy

2007-08-07T19:45:00.000+10:00

Yes IU really mean that, I am so sorry.
Since I last blogged a lot has happened.

The New shop Arty Pants, opened in Cranbourne on the 28th July 2007 Shops3/4/5 Bella Centre, 33-39 High St Cranbourne Vic Next to the NAB or for those who frequent the pubs, diagonal to Kellys pub in Cranbourne.
My Son Mark has had a new change in his life, and I am so proud of him. He is a New Man.
Mark also broke his ankle (but then we were told it wasn't broken, then told it was and then told no it wasn't who do you believe. Then after a Cat scan no breaks but he has badly damaged all the tendons and ligament in the ankle, so they are keeping it in plaster until the 6 week time is up and then see shat they are going to do.
We closed the shop in Hampton Park on the 20th July, ( On the 22nd it would have been 12 months since we opened a retail store.
So many wonderful people came out of the woodwork and helped us pack up and un pack the shop. Thank you everyone you know who you are.
I have had to go a see a cardiologist. (maybe open heart surgery I was told ,I think I was told this just to scare the absolute s**t out of me) Well it worked. I have been told now that they are trying fluid tablets to see if they can get rid of excess fluid to make my heart beat stronger and not harder. It seems that the muscle around the heart has thickened and was not allowing the heart to relax, which in turn made the muscle become rigid which in turn made it worse. so I have been told. Well not one any more but two fluid tablets in the morning definatly make me we we we weeeeeee all the way where ever I go. And then they decided to change my blood pressure medication. I go back a see him again in 3 weeks. I wonder what else they will come up with. Well at least I am losing weight ( must have been holding a lot of fluid because I have droped quite a lot.
On top of all this, I get the most horrible cold.....Cassie had this the weekend the shop opened, whe wasn't the well little chickadee at all, all she did was sleep. Then when Cassie was on Antibiotics and was getting better, Chelsie got sick, all she has wanted is her Mum then surprise surprise Last Wednesday guess who started to get sick You guessed it....Me! By Saturday I had lost my voice and then Sunday all I wanted to do was sleep, then I though I was starting to get better but it went to my chest and again I feel terrible. I understand how Cassie and Chelsie felt. Well today is Tuesday and I am still not any better. I have Thursday as a day off so if I am still sick,maybe I had better head for the Drs.
Melinda a Glenn have been sick with both of them having time off work
Now Mark is sick.

Who started all this sickness.

Apart from all this we are all fine and doing great.

Again I am sorry for not blogging earlier but..........

Keep smiling and healthy

Judy

bad bad blogger

2007-06-09T15:31:00.000+10:00

Yes I know, I haven't posted for such a long time. Well I do have an excuse. Arty Pants is moving to bigger and better premises and I have been really busy trying to sort everything out.
I think everyone will be surprised to find out this news, but we feel that it is for the better. Jodie and I are quite excited, but aprehensive due to all the hard work that is ahead of us.
I have been blogg jumping but I admit that I haven't had the time to post on my own blogg. Also I have been watching all the goings on on the Arty Pants forum.
The shop has been rather hectic over the past few weeks and we are holding massive specials all the time. Then one of our suppliers and myself have been organising Childrens classes for the upcoming school holidays, what a lot of fun.
On the home front, all seems to have settled down since the birth of Chelsie and the wedding of the year. Melinda is in the midst of scrapbooking her photos, and she is doing just a great job. Chelsie is now three months old, doesn't time fly. She is gooing and gahing and on the verge of laughing. Everytime you see her she is smiling. She gives just the greatest biggest smile ever.
Cassie is just the wonderful big sister,sometimes she is toooo kind.
Taylor has started at a new school and from what I can gather she just loves it. She seems to be the really big kid on the block now. She idolises Cassie and is just so grat with Chelsie.
Jodie is coping well with the two kids and Mark seems to have settled in well without Danni. Melinda is just loving her married life and is still teaching.
Bill, well what can I say, Bill is just Bill and so supportive as usual.
Mum is so settled into the dementia section of the nursing home and is just so calm, it is amazing.
My only down side at the moment is that I am lonely......... Lonely you say, yes I am lonely. I used to speak with my brother Jim on a regular intervals, but i am finding that I am really missing him. I know that he is happy, but I just do wish that he was as least able to talk on the phone. and as for my mum, I used to speak with her daily but she also can't hold a understandable conversation, so as you can see why I am lonely, not for the love and conversation of my family but for what I can't have. But life must go on and I will cope. I have some wonderful friends and a suppoortive family.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

Arty Pants forum is up and running.

2007-05-16T19:44:00.000+10:00

Arty Pants forum is now live! www.artypants.com.au/phpBB2. Take a look and start chatting. The colours are still not correct and if you have any suggestions please let us know, We are open to all suggestions.
Jodie has worked long and hard on organising this forum so I think she has done a wonderful job. There was a lot of stress sweat and tears gone into the organising as well as looking after a 9 week old baby and a 3 year old and owning a shop and running a house, so here's 3 cheers to jodie. Wel done!!!
This is just a very short blogg so I will blogg again soon.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

Mothers Day!

2007-05-13T10:30:00.000+10:00

I wish all mothers out there a wonderful and peaceful Mothers Day.

Enjoy and celebrate that you have brought into this world new life.

Life is too short for regrets, tell them daily that you love them:

love them for who they are,
acknowledge them for who they are
respect them for who they are,
enjoy them for who they are.
they are Your children,
they are individuals
BUT they have their own mind.

Enjoy your day.

Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

RIP William Houghton (Bill)

2007-05-06T11:52:00.000+10:00

I have just spent 1 hour blogging and I lost it. I think it might have been for the best, because it was very depressing and negative and I don't think any of you would want to read through such blab. No more tears or negativity.
My Uncle Bill (Bill Houghton) passed away last night and I have been sitting here typing how bad cancer is and how it sucks. I have had tears rolling down my face and onto the keyboard, so maybe thats what happened, I fused it .
Anyhow CANCER SUCKS. (as Dawn Stan would say).
My Uncle Bill was the best uncle and a wonderful man.
my condolences to my Aunty Marion, Billy and Judy, Bob and Sheila and Carol and all their families. He is like an eagle soaring high above all and watching over everyone who cared.
I think that is enough to say. No more hours of feeling sorry.
Be happy Uncle Bill, and say Hi to Dad, Val and Jim for me.
Awareness is the cure for cancer everyone so please be aware.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy
xxxx

My tag of interesting information.

2007-04-28T21:22:00.000+10:00

I have been tagged by Janet.

Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

I do not like anyperson touching my feet. I can't even stand Bill's feet touching mine while we are in bed. I have told Bill that he will only get to touch my feet when I'm dead.
I have really curly hair and I hate it. When I was younger I used to have long hair and I would have a shower before bed every night and wash my hair and tie it back to tight so that it would dry like that. Didn't fix the curles but I did only have wavy hair during the day.
I am the youngest of my family. I have two sisters and 1 brother and they are all alot older than me. Valerie was 16 years older, Marjie was 14 year older and Jim 11 years older. My mother was 44 years old and my father was 48 years old when they had me. I always told my parents that I was an after thought.
I look more like my Aunty Joan (including our ways and mannerisms) than I have ever looked like my Mum. Maybe their is something my family never told me.
I was 20 when I got married and was 22 nearly 23 when I had Jodie.
During my second Pregnancy, I was six weeks pregnant when I had a curette, and the baby survied. (Mark) I didn't know I was pregnant until I was 5 months. and then it was a shock, as I was told after the results of the curette that I would never be able to have any more children. I went on and proved them all wrong. with two extra children.
On every wedding cake I have made I have always put in a special little something on the decorations signifying the individuals of the couple. eg. Melinda and Glenn got tiny little blackboards signifying they are both teachers. Jodie and Jeff got a paint brush and a knife signifying their love of art. I have even put in a little carrot signifying the love of carrot cake. quirky I know but that me.

Now I tag.....umm let me think. Chrissy, Connie, Mel Diener, Dawn Stan, Steph, Bec, and anyone else who has not been tagged. I can't think of anyone else who has not been tagged.

Thanks Janet for tagging me. It is amazing the things that you think of. Once I got going I had trouble stopping.

Wednesday we held an all day crop. It was a really great day and everyone said that they enjoyed themselves. It was a full house and we were asked when we were having another.

Friday night again we cropped and had a full house again. and next week is booked out as well. The crops are certainly taking off.

I worked again today, I am really tired on a Saturday after the Friday night crop, as I open the shop on the Saturday morning. I had a very productive day today and got all our paperwork ready to do the accounts ready for the accountant next week.

Tomorrow Bill, Mark and I are taking Taylor to the aquarium. I am sure we will all have fun. Taylor is so excited, as she has been waiting to go there for a long time. Yes i'm taking my camera of course.

Bill, Melinda and Taylor went to the nursing home today to see my Mum and Bills dad today. Mum asked Bill if he went on the honeymoon with Melinda. I know you have to laugh at the comments you get from them both, otherwise you would end up crying all the time. They both were happy they said and comfortable.

Well I am going to get some rest and its off to bed for me.

Keep smiling and healthy.

Judy

Badddddddd Blogger!!!!!!!!

2007-04-21T11:51:00.000+10:00

Yes that's me. I am sooooo sorry, I have been recuperating after such a busy time.

In a matter of 2 months, I have had my brother pass away, the birth of another Grandaughter and the wedding of my youngest daughter Melinda. They say that the only time you usually see all the family and that isat a wedding and funeral. This is just so true. I have seen more of my family (distant family) in the past two months than I have seen of them in the past two years. How sad is that. It doesn't help that we are spread over three states.
I am still working long hours but I must say it is very rewarding. No not on the money side of things, but to be able to work in a place that is also your hobby, it is just, just just............great.

My life at the moment is, work Monday thru to Thursday 9.30a.m.. - 5.p.m. Friday 9.30am to by the time the crop is over leave the shop at the minimum of 1.am saturday Morning. Then work in the shop Saturday 10am - 5p.m. and then Sunday 11am - 3 p.m. As of Tomorrow I will be having Sundays off and Jodie is going to work the 4 hours as Jeff can come in with her and help out.(she can't feed while serving, unless she wants to flash her boobs). Jodie has been coming in on a regular basis but it is very hard with a 6 week old baby and a 3 year old, just to get organised. But all the amount she comes in helps me. Thankyou Jodie for all you do...

Bill has been fantastic... I could no ask for a better husband. The support he gives is remarkable.(i don't know what I did to score such a catch, but whatever it was I must have done a great job of it.) Thankyou darling for standing by me in thick and thin. I love you.

I have rambled on enough,
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

The finish to a wonderful day.

2007-04-12T07:44:00.000+10:00

After lots and lots of photos, it was on to the reception. With fun and dancing.
We had a DJ and he was setting up during the time between the ceremony and the reception. Majority of the guests went up to the RSL to enjoy the hours space, a lot just stayed at the reception centre. I must say that the AMBERLEE Receptions is definately the place to have a function. Nick and his staff were just so accomodating. We had a couple of elderley people. My Mum and Bills Dad< They wouldn't have made it if we went to the RSL. So they supplied us all with Tea and Coffee and biscuits. This was definately not part of the costs, but just as an added extra. Then I was asked if they could take out some hot nibble to guests who where trickling back. I said we hadn't paid for the hot nibbles, only pre dinner drin ks. Nick told me he hated wastage and he had quite a lot left over from the night befores wedding and would I mind. Of course I said I have no troubles. They served them and I think everyone had had their fill.

Then came the time for everyone to take their seats. Would you believe 8 people didn't even show up. We paid $65.00 / head for everyone and 8 didn't even show up. How rude. Especially when three of those were people who had rund up to ask if they could bring someone, and then thay didn't show. Any how the night was a big success.

The soup: choice of Pumpkin or Hearty beef and vegetable.
The Main: choice of Roast leg of Lamb or Oven roasted chicken.

There was so much food on each plate, that I don't think anyone could have been hungry.
On each table was: Red and white wine, beer, and soft drink and water. They just kept on refilling and replacing all the bottles as one was finished they would bring in another. Great service.
Then it was time for the formalaties. Boy I was so tired, I am glad that it is up to the Father of the Bride.
Bill got up and spoke quite fluently (after a small hic cup when he forgot what he was saying). He thanked everyone who had to be thanked, welcomed Glenn into out family and said how proud he was of his Little girl.
Then Arthur spoke (Glenn's Dad) he also did a remarkable job.
Then as Glenn would say, it was up to the MAN. Glenn told how he loved Melinda and Her smile and that he was glad she had said yes to him. He thanked everyone, especially William and Judith (yes that it was he said he was going to call Bill and I on the night and He did, He knows how much we hate those names, but we just get on a laugh and always will and he will continue to call us them) and then he spoke of his father who I think got a biger and bigger chest with what Glenn said about his dad was just tear jerking. Then he thanked the wonderful bridesmaids and flower girls and of course his groomsmen. They all looked stunning at that long table. This littlies behave really well.
Stuart then replied and then it was time for the telegrams, they themselves I think make a wedding.
Tony (Groomsman, at Bill and My wedding, 33 years ago,) Proposed a toast to the Parents of the Bride and groom.Thanks Tony you did a great job. He filled in for Jim. (my brother who passed away 6 weeks ago) Jim was always the person who got up and spoke at all our family occassions, He was greatly missed on the night.
After that it was time to cut the cake and the bridal walz. What alovely couple.
After lots and lots of dancing.
THE DESSERTS.
They cought out a buffet of desserts. We had to pick out six - eight desserts for the night. The way the crowd decended I think it was well worth it and well received. I must say, not much left.
Then more dancing, and then it was the Garter and Bouquet throw. Melinda wore my garted I wore at my wedding but we bought a new one for her to wear also and that was the one that was thrown. It bounced of quite a few hands and then finally landed in Colin Houghton's hand,(One of my 2nd cousins) He proudly wore it on his arm for the remainder of the night. Then the bouquet throw. We were quite surprised at how far Melinda threw it. (Melinda has no coordination skills at all). Cindy Herdman jumped, (would have made any footballer proud) and she got the bouquet. Her Mum and Dad I think were saying oh nooooooooo!.
Then it was time for Melinda and Glenn to leave. We formed the circle while all the goodbyes and thankyous were said and they it was through a long tunnel they went out the front door. They were going in the photgraphers car (so noone could get theirs) as they were leaving I said my usual phrase as any of my kids go anywhere (Be good). Melinda's reply, I don't have to anymore I'M MARRIED! I think that said it all. They were going to the Frankston Beach for some night photos by the photographer. If anyone ever needs a photographer, I would have not hesitation in referring JAMES Babone. He was fantastic, well worth his money and went way beyond his duty.
Melinda and Glenn went and stayed at their own home in Cranbourne that night and left early Monday morning for Surfers Paradise.
After everyone left it was time for packing up. The presents(lots of them) the left over cake and then it was taking Mum back to the nursing home and then HOME.
Bill and I were completely and utterly STUFFED. I think it was just the fact that we had had such a busy time before the wedding with a funeral, with preparations, the birth of a new granddaughter and marrying off our daughter along with still working and running our own businesses. We couldn't just take time off and still get paid.

Melinda and Gleen returned home yesterday from QLD and said they had a fantastic time and again thanked Bill and I for all the work and effort into making their wedding day just superb.
And what Bill and I get out of all this,
We see our Daughter smiling and just so happy and in return we are just so happy that all is ok.
Life goes on! The circle of life! I seem to have this in a lot of my bloggs lately.
Bill and I always happy and don't interfere in our kids lives unless there is a need. We always say: IF OUR KIDS ARE HAPPY WE ARE HAPPY, BUT IF THEY AREN'T THEN DON'T GET ON THE WRONG SIDE OF US.
Life: A very long time. You are born and supported by your parents fully until you can get your own things. Then once you are old enough to support yourself, then you are on your own. If you make a wrong decision, you have made your bed then you must lie in it. Get yourself out of trouble, but at all times, we are there to support you mentally and help you mentally. You make your own decisions, whether good or bad, but they are your decisions and can't blame anyone else for them. It you fall we are there for you to help you climb up that ladder again. We will be there to share your good and bad times and know that our love has no boundries. We will love you forever, we may not like what you are doing or have done, but will ALWAYS stand beside you.
Keep smiling and healthy.
l
Judy

Sorry TOOOOOOOO tired!!!!!

2007-04-03T20:15:00.000+10:00

I will blogg again tomorrow night, I am just so tired and I need more sleep. I have more photos of the wedding reception and will share I promise.
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

continuation of the Fairy Tale

2007-04-02T19:24:00.000+10:00

We were all seated when the Music commenced.

Out first were the Flower girls, Cassie (3) and Taylor (8). They were just beautiful. White dresses with a blue sash and carrying a basket of red roses. just superb. The two of them were just so confident and so different to the rehearsal. They walked slowly and smiled at all you took their photos. They took their place at the Gazebo. Next was Shona, Melinda met shona during her nursing course and have been friends ever since. Traveling to NZ together and nightclubbing. Shona has a beautiful smile, and her comment was that the day was just like a dream. Then came Adele, Melinda and Adele met at school and have been friend since Grade 5. Instead of Schoolies week at the end of year 12 they both traveled to China for 22 days. Adele was the one with the rose petals and pancakes in the morning. Then the maid of honour. Kristy. Kristy and her family lived next door to us for over 13 years and Melinda has been friends with Kristy since Kristy was 4 and Melinda was 6.Such a Beautiful Friendship, Like diamonds. Kristy stated that she thought she was more nervous than Melinda. She has only ever been to 2 weddings and this was her 2nd and best.

Then... after a short pause.

Melinda and her father Bill arrived. arms gently entwined, what a magical sight, the smile on both was wonderful to see. Bill stood proud and tall of his beautiful daughter. Walking up to the gazebo and handing his daughter to her husband to be.

Now Time for some photos

This was when Melinda saw the horse and cart for the first time and Bill Melinda, Cassie and Taylor travelling in the carriage.

Then there is the proud father of the bride, Bill and his daughter Melinda. Can't you all see how proud he was? Then it was time for the Vows. It was such a lovely but simple ceremony and one filled with plenty of love. They with plenty of cheers, they were pronounced Husband and Wife. Mr and Mrs Glenn and Melinda Hamilton. They made a lovely couple and quite obviously deeply in love. Then it was time for the fun photos and fun.

Melinda's Maternal Grandmother (Nana) and her Paternal Grandfather (Grandpa)..They were quite honoured to be part of their grandchildrens wedding. Although I am not sure if either really new what was happening.

Then that right me in a hat and all dolled up with Glenn, Melinda and Bill.

Melinda and Glenn enjoying their time with the horse and cart.

And then finally tonight I will leave you with OUR FAMILY.

In the front are Taylor and Cassie, Left to right

Jeff, Jodie, Chelsie, Judy, Glenn, Melinda, Mark and Bill.

The Davis Family as we are: Full of fun and laughter, Love and happiness and we wish everyone out there a wonderful night, and may they share their love with their own families, as we share ours.

I will post again tomorrow with more of the fun of the night with the reception details and MORE photos.

Keep smiling everyone and keep healthy.

Love and thanks,

Judy

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

2007-04-02T09:24:00.000+10:00

What an absolutly wonderful and magnificent day.
The weather was tremendous, no rain in sight, the sun was shining, the birds were even singing and horses were very well behaved.
The day started at 6.30am. Adel, one of Melinda's Bridesmaids stayed overnight on Saturday, got up and cooked Melinda Pancakes for breakfast and threw fresh rose petals over her for good luck, it is apparently good luck, and boy was the bride to be pampered.
7.30 off to the hairdressers for Adele and myself
8.15 Melinda Shona and Kristy arrived at the hairdressers, then it was Jodies turn then my mums (Marj) and then the very excited flowergirls.
The makeup run started at 10.30, as we were finished at the hairdressers, we headed home to the have the makeup applied. It all ran so very smoothly.
The flowers arrived at 9am and then it was Bills turn to take them off to Glenns house.
I picked my Mum up at the Nursing home at 9.30am and was back home at 10.15
Mark decided at 11am that he needed a haircut, so I took him down to Fountain Gate and while I was there I just happened to get a couple of bottles of Champagne. Before I left I decided to put on some homemade sausage rolls for the girls to nibble on. (I forgot them), Thankfully
Kristy and Adele decided to go near the oven for some reason, and found that the oven was warm. Saved by the bell.
When I got back from Foutain Gate we cracked the Champagne. 2 bottles do not go very far when you have 9 women,three men getting ready for a wedding. But it was just enough to wet the whistle.
At 2p.m. Taylor's shoes broke (Flower girl) so Melinda (Veil and all) along with her 3 Bridesmaids headed off to Fountain Gate to get some new shoes.
While they were gone Helped Mum get dressed.
Home again home again Jigety jig came the Bride and Bridesmaids, then the rush started.
The photographer arrived at 2pm and set up, and started taking photo's of everyone before they got ready. They got some beautiful shots of My mum with her 24 Great granddaughter (Chelsie).
The bridesmaid were in one room, I was in another with Melinda, Bill was in the ensuite having a shower. She LOKKED Awesome!!!!!!!!!. It just a speachless moment when you see you daughter first in her wedding dress and veil knowing that she soom will be a married woman. That initial sight is breathtaking.
PHOTOS PHOTOS and MORE PHOTOS, those of you that are married would understand that statement. You get sick of smiling.
Then it was time to get the flowergirls dressed. They were sooooooooooo patient. and they toooooooo looked georgeous. They got their necklace and bracelet on and they were ready. For a Three year old and an eight year old they were just so well behaved.
Then time for mum to get dressed.
Stocking, skirt camisole, jacket and then beieve it or not a hat. Yes I wore a hat. I felt just so special.
Then I looked over at Bill, standing in the background, in his stunning black suit, with his Silver vest and tie. I now know why I married him 33 years ago.. Maybe in the background but always there. Thankyou darling.
I walked out to see my 3 kids, Jodie looking soo well and beautiful in her tuorqoise tope and straight hair, my daughter Melinda in all her finery and looking stunning in white, and then my son Mark, what a stunner. Black Suite and vest,and turqoise tie. He is not always around but to see him standing there watching in awe as everything unfold around him was tremendous. Bill and I are just so lucky to have 3 absolutely together kids. They wouldn't miss anything that the other is doing. Thankyou my darlings you all are a credit to your Mum and Dad. We love you. Thankyou.
Then after more and more photos, it was time. The cars were waiting out the front, one for the Bride and her Father and the two flowergirls, and one for the three bridemaids and mother of the bride, Jodie Jeff, Chelsie, Mark and Mum (Marj)were off in Jodies car.
One minor stop, Cranbourne Hall. and there waiting was a beautiful white carriage, with two beautiful dressed white horses, and gentleman dressed in red top, just to sett off the occasion.
Out of the big car and into the Carriage went Bill, Melinda and the two flowergirls. I don't know who was so excited. The adults or the flowergirls, Taylor kept on saying I'm going in the carriage.
Off again. What a great site. Melinda and Bill even told us they had Japanese tourists stop and take photos, it just looked magical.
I was first to arrive at the reception centre, I jumped out of the car and made my entrance, The group and atmosphere was estatic, there were kids and parents from the schools at which Melinda and Glenn teach.
Mark and Jeff were handing out order of service sheets, the Celebrant welcomed me and then it was off to the Gazebo where I went and greeted my new son soon to be. He and his groomsmen were up there looking very dapper indeed. The groomsmen in their black suits and blue ties to match the bridemaids and the grrom........well what can I say....There in his black suit and gold tie, very stunning. I think the longer he waited the more nervous he got.
The the shout went up, There they are in a horse and carriage....... It was just all so fairytale like, I feel like I am writing a book.
I am going to close this blogg this time for now and will return soon with the remainder of the farytale.............and photos.

Until then
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

Less than 24 hours

2007-03-31T16:46:00.000+10:00

The cake is fianally finished.I finished it this morning and it is now at the reception centre.

Well tomorrow at 4p.m. Melinda will be marrying Glenn. What a wonderful couple they will make.

Everything is finally ready, all we have to do now is to get the hair done, makeup makeuped, drink a few leisurely champagnes and get ready for the big day.

We looked at the flowers today. Van Wyk Flowers are the best. I certainly can recommend them. Melinda got to do a final view of them today and even pick what color ribbon, and if anything needed changing they would have done it today. What service. They will even deliver for a small charge of $10.00. Couldn't pick them up for that price. and then as we were leaving them they handed me a bouguet of roses for the house. FANTASTIC service.

Time for Bill and I to start relaxing.

The weather is supposed to be good.

I will post again with photos of the day on Monday, so stay tuned.

Until next time.

Keep smiling and healthy

Judy

Thursday already!!!!!!!

2007-03-29T07:32:00.000+10:00

How time flies, it seems just like yesterday that we held Melinda and Glenn's Engagement party and here we are only three more sleeps until the BIG WEDDING.
The plans are all going great.
I have to thank quite a few people:

Jodie, thankyou very much for all your hard work you have put into the invitation, Rsvp cards and finally yesterday the place cards, They are a credit to you and it just shows that the money put into your education definately was not wasted. You certainly have excelled this time. You have a two week old baby along with a three year old and you have still managed. Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou.
To Vanassa, thanks for arranging the decorations for the Gazebo, it is greatly appreciated.
To Jenny and Marni, thankyou from the bottom of my heart for all the work you do in the shop, without you two I would still be stressing as to when I would be able to finish the last minute shopping for the wedding.
I have been offered many hand for the preparation for the wedding to all of you that have offered Thankyou.
Yesterday, I was to go and ppurchase a small heart cookie cutter for one of the decorations for the cake, I happened to be talking to a lady and gentleman who came into out shop for the first time YESTERDAY. I hadn't met either of them before, complete strangers. The conversation got onto Cake decorating and the heart cookie cutter, she said she thought she had one in her stash and that she would check, Approx 2 hours later the gentleman came back into the shop with a cookie cutter in his hand. Hows that for firendship. I have it on loan until today. Thankyou Sharon very much. It was really appreciated.
To the many people who come into the shop with wishes, thankyou. Your kindness is very much appreciated.
And finally to my darling husband, Bill, thankyou for your support through the past few months. Without all the love, support and encouragment you have supplied me with I would be in a little pile on the floor.

Last night I finnished the bonbonieres, the place cards, the table settings, have everything ready to put into the car this morning to take to the Reception Rooms. I did some more decorations for the Wedding cake, (still not finished but will be by Friday night ready to take to the Recption rooms Saturday Morning).I then put a treatment into my hair, gave myself a small pedicure, I must say I finally got some time for ME.

I think after Sunday, I will be offically exhausted.

Thankyou all again for your support.

Keep smiling and healthy

Judy

6 more sleeps

2007-03-26T13:25:00.000+10:00

Well it is down to single digits until the wedding. It is becoming the wedding of the year the way things are going.
We had a rehearsal for the big day yesterday Sunday, It all went extremely well. Having a three year old as one of the flower girls is going to be mighty cute. We asked Cassie to stand near Taylor and hold her hand and she put her hands on her hips, stamped her foot and said an outright NO! i DON'T WANT TO. Of course we all laughed. I wonder what she will be up to on Sunday. We then told the young girls to pretend that they are holding their baskets with flowers. Taylor held hers at the right level, Cassie held hers up around her head. Then is was practising for the walk up the aisle. Well Taylor walked rather fast whilst holding on to Cassie's hand and Cassie looked like whe was flying. Ater all the fun side everything went off really well. The Boys weren't quite up to their old self, They had Glenn's Bucks night on Saturday night and I think they were all a little under the weather.
Talking of Weather. I have heard that the day is supposed to be around 22 and sunny. So should be a good day.
After the reahearsal, Bill and I and Melinda and Glenn went in to the reception hall and did the final preparations and paid all the moeny. This went off really smoothly as Well. This is the same reception house that Jodie and Jeff had their reception in, but I must say that the NEW OWNERS are a lot more organised. Even down to arranging to order a Taxi for the Newly weds at the end of the night and the time. We were extremely impressed.
Melinda rang the photographer and he will be at our home at 2.20p.m. on Sunday as we will be leaving at 3.20p.m
The Bridesmaids are staying over on Saturday night and I think they are all going out for Dinner on Sat night, They asked Bill and I but I declinded as I think Bill will take me out on Friday night as Friday is our Wedding anniversary. We will have been married for 33 years. You don't get that long for murder, do you? Bill can never remember whether our anniversary is 30th or 31st March . It is quite funny actually. I wonder if he will ever remember?
I had better go and do some work
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

Countdown until wedding

2007-03-20T19:34:00.000+11:00

With only 1and half weeks to go, I have been rather busy trying to sort out the final arrangements.

Met with Glenn's parents on Sunday Night. Bill cooked a lovely meal and then it was down to business. Numbers stand at 113 plus 2 children (the flowergirls) It has been decided that each family pay for their own guests and we split the bridal party and the kids guests 3 ways. Then it was the cost for the celebrant, cake, cars, flowers etc etc. These costs also are being split 3 ways. Bill and I are up approx $1000.00 with this arrangement. We are not complaining.
Monday night Melinda Glenn and I went to see the reception rooms to arrange menu(can't let you know the menu yet, will tell after the wedding,I will say it is YUMMY, especially the sweets) and colours for napkins, and all the final arrangements for the reception and paying the money. All went very smoothly. I must say that the new owners are very easy to speak with and we have had not hassels.
Tuesday, I opened the shop, then left Jenny and Marni to manage it. (Jodie came in again, I don't think she trusts me. Ha Ha). I went to Frankston, collected my outfit, bought a hat, bought shoes for mum to wear, organised the items I need to complete the cake, bought stockings, ribbon for bonbonieres, and after approx $600.00 later and a cup of tea and some lunch, I left Frankston and returned to the shop.
On my return today, the boxes for the bonbonieres were delivered to the shop, so that another thing I can get on to.
I went home to a wonderfully clean house. Debbie Hemple came in today and did a marvelous restoration to my house. Thanks Debbie, it was great to go home and not have to do anything.
I am now just relaxing, checking out blogg world and then I think it might me time for bed. ready to start another busy day.

Jodie dropped Chelsie off to Moniques today and then came into the shop with Chelsie, of course I had Nannie cuddles. It is wonderful to have a newborn around again. They smell just so scrumptious. She did try to get some food from my boobs but I told her in no uncertain terms that they are a dry agrument.

I have decided that the time has come, I must get my beauty sleep.

Keep smiling and healthy

Judy

Photo At Last

2007-03-17T19:08:00.000+11:00

Blogger is being nice, today. I chose this photo as I feel that it is such a beautiful photo of Chelsie. I did a layout last night and I think it turned out really well.

Aren't I just so good at bragging. I don't care if you don't like me bragging , you will just have to put up with it. I am a proud Nanie.

Jodie and Chelsie are going home from hospital tomorrow (Sunday). Cassie is just so excited that she is taking Chels home. (She has already shortened her name.)

Keep smiling and healthy.

Judy

I have photos

2007-03-16T23:17:00.000+11:00

Unfortunately, blogger won't let me load them at the moment. Will try again tmorrow. If any of you are near the shop drop by.
I have even scrapbooked a beautiful page tonight.
Can't tell I am a very happy grandmother. Do you think I am biased?????????
Until next time,
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

The miracle of life.

2007-03-14T22:30:00.000+11:00

Thank You Jodie and Jeff for another wonderful Grand daughter. She is just so perfect in every way. I was sitting there tonight cuddling her and looking at the beautiful lips, nose and eyes, then you look at the long fingers, and then her toes, just all so perfect. Another creation made by you two.
I looked at Cassie, who is just an adorable 3 year old. Her tenderness with her baby sister and the way she cares when she cries. Then the way she was carefully watching you feed her, then the way she reacted when she saw her umbilical cord, the ways she has grown herself in past 24 hours from the baby in the family to the big girl.
Then I look at my wonderful daughter who just 24 hours created the miracle of life, and bought Chelsie into this world. A daughter who 30 years ago was not much smaller than this new born baby, with again the beautiful lips, nose and eyes, then the fingers and toes again all just so perfect.
Life is one big Circle.
The miracle of life.
Keep smiling and healthy.
L
Judy

Welcome to a New Granddaughter.

2007-03-14T13:23:00.000+11:00

CHELSIE OLIVIA ARMITAGE,made her way into the world at 7.33p.m. on Tuesday 13th March 2007. She weighed in at 3kg 3gr. Jodie, Jeff and Cassie are on cloud 9. and by the way so is Nannie. Chelsie had a few problems with breathing last night and was in a humidicrib until 1am this morning. She is now in the normal crib with her Mum, and doing fine.
Jodie did really well with her labour and nicely said after, that maybe she will be able to make the Crop for Kids on Good Friday. What a scrapbooker.
I am going and will give more news as it comes to light.
Mayber next blogg I can just happen to find some photos.

Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

News!!!!!!

2007-03-13T16:49:00.000+11:00

I have some very important news!
Can't tell you yet,
Hopefully tomorrow. I promise as soon as I can tell you I will.
All I can say is that I am on tender hooks, and have been since 8.30am today.
blogg tomorrow.
Got you all thinking now haven't I.
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

2007-03-07T20:36:00.000+11:00

What a busy day.
I had the day off today. It was so good just relaxing. We not really relaxing but doing things for the wedding.
I collected the mail, ticked off more replies, then I went shopping. Yes, I was supposed to have my hair cut and coloured, but last night I found I had nits.......yes that right, nits, so I bought some nit stuff . Then it was off to bras and things... I decided that I really should have a good fitting bra, my old one was so uncomfortable. The one I got cost me $50.00 but I feel like I am not wearing anything at all. Great. Then it was off to spotlight to do some snooping. Yess I said snooping. I looked right through all their products and found that ours are quite comparable to theirs in price and a lot beeter in quality. I liked their shop fitting better that ours and I got some wonderful ideas with regard to displays.Then I was off to Vanassa's. Had some indepth talks with regrds the Beanie Kids. If the company who carries then, doesn't get off their you know whats and sort out our big problem we will not be carrying them anymore. Can't elaborate anymore yet but mayble one day.I then went home and put that stuff though my hair. Gee it is strong smelly stuff, and I am sure it can't be any good for your hair but anything to get rid of those horrible things. I left in in for an hour, they say only for 20 minutes but I wanted to be sure. I need my hair done next week. I think I might have suffocated them with the smell.
Then it was off to the wholesalers for the wedding invitations. They are closing down and I needed to pick up some product.
Then it was home for dinner and then I have just done the minutes for the H/P Network group for which I am secretary
I have had many phone calls today business, wedding and pleasure. I was ready to throw the phone. Now I am writing on my blogg and then it will be off to bed for me.
Such a busy day, but I haven't really accomplished much at all.
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

Life goes on.....4 weeks to go

2007-03-04T10:25:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone,
four weeks until the birth of another grandaughter and the wedding of the Davis family for 2007.
We are running quite a tight ship at the moment.
Jodie is just so tired, but because of the darling website host, refusing to give us a password she cannot get the internet sorted out for Arty Pants and change it over, she is refusing to have any time off as she says she hasn't the time. Come on Col, do the right thing and hand over the correct password. afterall it should have been under Jodie's e-mail address from the start. Don't you just hate the idiots who think they own everything.
Jodie has only 4 weeks to go until her due date, but I think this baby will come ealy. Lets hope so, so she can attend the wedding along with having a beautiful little darling child.
While we were in Adelaide last Wednesday, Melinda bought her veil, fancy having to travel all the way to Adelaide. It is nicer than any we had seen in Melbourne, but again a lot heftier price. The Hair trial went smoothly on Friday night and her hair will look lovely.
The replies for the wedding are now coming in quite steadily, and so far we haven't received any inabilities. The roses are the next thing for the wedding cake........Lovely Red ones. Won't they look absolutely stunning.
The flower girls have a fitting on Thursday night for their dresses, and Melinda's dress should be finnished with the alterations. We are having a meeting at the reception room today at 4p.m. Here we will measure up the Gazebo and chapel for the decorations. also the planning for the rehearsal. Excitement plus in the Davis household at the present.
On the work front, the shop is going great and the amount of wonderful people you meet and those that turn up at crops makes going to work wonderful.
I had better go as I need to open the shop.
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judyxxxxxx

Celebration of a life well lived!!!!!!!!

2007-03-01T20:07:00.000+11:00

Just returned from Adelaide, where I attended the funeral of my darling brother Jim. The funeral was fit for a king and in my eyes he was the king of brothers.

The church was full to the brim with people from all walks of life. Family and friends from all over Australia. Friends from his Personal and Business dealings spoke of Jim with very high regard, but one thing they all had in common was that he always handled himself with the highest of dignity and his relationship with all was the same. His philosophy in life was that the higher a bamboo grows the lower they must bend, and he would never ask someone to do something that he himself could not do, and if he asked someone to do something better he always had to be able to do it better. But the fun side of Jim Parkinson was one of Red wine and music. And this was another side of Jim that was mentioned with high regard.

Jim was Manager for Ansett in South Australia . He was transferred to Adelaide in 1989 and was highly regarded by many in the aviation industry. He had dealing with the passengers to politicians and the media and knew how to handle the situations that were dealt him at all times. He left Ansett in 1995 and became a consultant...He then had dealings with the SA Tourisism commission and the Racing Fraternity.

The pictures above were from the front and rear cover of the order of service. It was like a full blown production but definately one suited to Jim.

His wife stood in front of the packed congregation and spoke of her love for my brother and how eventhough their marriage was only 12 years long it was filled with love and music . She stated how blessed she was and that it was a privelidge to say she was married to Jim. She spoke of his illness and how hard the last two years were, but how she was honoured to have nursed him, especially in the last 8 weeks of his life.

Jim's ex wife Val, was in attendance and I am sure it must have been hard for her, but she also was there out of her love and the 27 years of marriage that she had with Jim. She was so proud also to have spent 27 years with Jim. Although their marriage didn't work out it still is part of the lives of both of them and that time held many memories that were shared also.

Jim and Val had two daughters, Donna and Joanne. They both were there and I believe were so very proud of their father. They both mentioned the jigsaw sandwiches that Jim created when they were younger. (He cut out messages in their sandwiches like a jigwaw puzzle, this today is continued with their children). Jim, Val and the girls travelled the world and they were all reminiscing of their times away. and the fun they all enjoyed.

Donna had three children Max, Tom and Bethany and Joanne has two children Bella and Will.

Janet has two children from her previous marriage (Janet's 1st husband and two of their 4 children were killed in a tragic aeroplane accident in Broken Hill. The accident happened on the eighth birthday of their youngest daughter Sophie) Marie and Jean-Paul were also in attendance, they told of their love for Jim and that although he never tried to take the place of their father, he came in very close with his wisdom and love and guidance. Marie has a son Sebastion and is expecting another in July and Jean Paul has two daughter Harper and Millar and a son Cuba.

Jim was known as Grandpa Jim to all his grandchildren of which there were 9. He loved each and every one of them and gained much loved and delight in return from them each.

After the funeral we returned to the family home and were treated to such a spread of food and of course wine and champagne.(It wouldn't be a Parkinson get to gether without the wine and champagne). Jim was definately there in spirit. The love that was shared along with the tears and loving reminiscing of a wonderful man proved that he was there with us. I can just imagine him drinking red wine with my dad (dad drinking scotch) and saying gee was I that good a person.

I was greeted by many in attendance as "definately Jim Parkinson's sister" They said I have his eyes, his cheeks and most of all his smile. I feel quite priveledged to be told this.

Sorry this is such a long blogg, but I thought you all would be interested to hear about the Celebration of Jim's Life.

Jim's death will not be in vain if everyone out there remembers that CANCER can strike without any notice, so please each and every one of you, please be aware. Awareness is the answer to CANCER. Remember AWARENESS.

Finally, I would like to THANK everyone who has sent e-mails, cards, messages on my blogg, or made a point of personally spoken to me or sent messages via Jodie, Melinda and Mark and of Course Bill.

The love, fun and wisdom of Jim Parkinson will remain in this world, and I am proud to have had Jim Parkinson as my brother, and the world is a better place to have had Jim Parkinson in it.

Thanks for listening

but most of all

Keep smiling and Healthy.

Love to all and thankyou.

Judy. xxxxxxxxxx

2007-02-24T13:54:00.000+11:00

The funeral for my brother is going to be held on Wednesday in Adelaide. Bill, Melinda and I are heading of there on Tuesday and returning on the Thursday. Not looking forward to the trip, but I wouldn't miss being there to remember his wonderful life.
To all those wonderful people who have left messages, phones and sent cards, thankyou from the bottom of my heart. He certainly was a wonderful strong man who will be sadly missed. But as Janet said, His angel wings will be soaring over us and looking after us now and for eternity.
This morning went with Melinda to organise her bridesmaids dress and the flower girls dresses. They will all look absolutely fantastic.
The cake has been started and well on its way. After Thursday will be concentrating more on the wedding again, especially the cake.
Had our usual crop last night. We all had a wonderful time, I was a little subdued last night, and didn't feel the mojo to crop, but I have some wonderful ideas, especially of my brother. The others all did great work. Jenny announced that after the wedding and baby celebrations, we will be planning a weekend away. Yes just to scrap to your hearts content. But please be patient, it will have to wait for planning until AFTER the wedding and Jodie's had the baby.
I had better go as I have lots to arrange.
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

RIP: Parkinson James Edward

2007-02-23T08:19:00.000+11:00

Two Years, Two weeks and Three Days after being diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and Doctors giving 6 months to live, My Wonderful Brother Jim, has passed away. He was a fighter and did her fight right up until the very last. James Edward Parkinson passed away 23rd February, 2007 at approx 5.55am.
Jim you meant the world to me. Your ideals were the ideals I would like to attain. You were strong and realistic. You were the life of the party. You were the Red wine drinker, the speach giver, the person who you could tell everthing and know that it wouldn't be passed on. Nothing was ever too much for you. You were the open ear, who would listen to everyone, but would then tell them what maybe they didn't want to hear, but then again maybe they did, but it was the truth. Some people didn't want to listen, but it was their loss in the end. You were a wonderful Son, Brother, Husband, and Father, and the best Grandpa Jim any child could ever wish for.
Your life over the past 14 years has been tumultuous. You eventualy realised that an unhappy marriage was not one that you stay in just becuase of the children. You stay because you want to stay. After 27 years of marriage it took you such a long time to realize this, but eventually you did. Your life with Janet was one of Love, and Music. This is not saying that all was red roses because I know it wasn't but the love you two shared was a bond that was amazing to see.
Whilst growing up, you were 11 years my senior, but even though you wanted to put me on the road and let a car run over me. I know you loved me. You tried to teach me my tables, unfortunately you didn't succeed. You taught me love, and fun.
I will always remember my 50th Birthday Party, you told me you couldn't come as money was tight, but then 1 hour before the party started, who should turn up on my doorstep, but my wonderful big brother. We partied into the early hours of the morning, but we were still bright enough the next day to continue. Then that big life of the party brother, picked up a tiny, delicate 2week old Cassie and with amazement kissed her on the head and said what a darling little angel you are. This showed me you were the strong, wine drinking, fun loving, macho man with the very tender, gentle side.
I love you and always have, and will miss our long talks and coffees, and of course drinks.
I will look after Mum just as we had talked of. Janet will still be on my telephone list and always will be.
Sleep peacefully my darling brother.
Love always
Keep smiling and Happy
you little flossie
Judy

Invitations are out......

2007-02-13T20:57:00.000+11:00

Well that's one job done and only ??????? to go.
Posted the invitations today for the wedding. Organised the transport, booked the hens night and arranged the bus, picking up my outfit on Saturday. Still have to lose more weight, but I am not worried I am sure this will happen.
Having a Baby shower for Jodie on Sunday, so looking forward to that.
As you can see I have been really busy lately with the Wedding plans, baby expectations, shop and just me.
Tomorrow I am having another day off. It feels really strange have days off. but I think Jodie and I need them off.
The shopping centre has been really busy this week. Bilo in Hampton Park is changing to Coles and will reopen on Monday 19th February as Coles, watch the prices drop dramatically on Monday and then give it a week, watch them go up double.
I feel that I am in a rutt at the moment, I am not sure where I am. Maybe its just that I have so much to do. and just don't know where to start.
Maybe I should start at the beginning and white things down. That sound linke an idea. Sorry about my ramblings but I am talking to myself lol.
I spoke with my sister in law last night, and Jim (my brother) is still not really well, and is getting distressed. I suppose it would distress anyone when they know they are dying... Must keep up for the family. I love you Jim
I am going and may post more tomorrow when I am more refreshed.
Keep smiling and healthy.
L
Judy

All abou t me!!!!!

2007-02-10T13:11:00.000+11:00

YOU.

a cuddler? Yes i love a warm fuzzy cuddle, don't seem to get many lately.
A morning person? Normally yes, but not after a late night I like my sleep.
Are you a perfectionist? I like things done well, but not bodgy, if that's being a perfectionist, then I am a perfectionist
Talented? I scrapbook and decorate cakes, lately I have being painting, maybe talented
In your pajamas? No I got up at 11am and got dressed immediately
Left handed? No.
LAST....
friend you saw: My friends at the crop night last night.
Sent text: our accountant with info re Bas Statement...How boring
LAST NIGHT.....
wore: to bed? Old but comfortable nighty mu favourite
made: Scrapped a page last night and then made a cup of tea this morning
watched: some stupid quiz show on television at 2.30am today
got any plans: working this weekend and then going to the aftermath of a Christening, missing the Church bit.....
FAVOURITE...
number: 7
color: yellow but not to wear. This was my school house team color many long years ago.
season: spring-not too hot and not too cold!
CURRENTLY...
.missing: time to spare to relax and enjoy life and spend with my family
needing: sleep sleep, sleep sleep, oh forgot to stop, I nearly fell asleep.
wanting: peace, for all
Q's and A's
q:first thing you did this morning: got up showered and got dressed
q: last thing you ate: 2 dim sims
q: do you have anything bothering you? YES people who say they will do something and don't and also those who are back stabbers. If you are a back stabber, please do not visit my blogg again, thankyou.
q: what's the last movie you saw?: buggered if I can remember
q: where is the last place you went? to Wally at the Hampton Park Hardware to get a key cut for the shop, but then that's another story. read jodies blogg for update on that. too long a story for me to post as well.
q: do you wish upon stars? Yes, my Dad's on that star.
q: are you a friendly person?: Yes…. My Kids are always telling me I talk toooooooo much.
q: where did you sleep last night?: Thank God, in my own special water bed, and not in the shop ( Ready Jodies Blogg)
q: what color shirt are you wearing? Red and white stripe t-shirt
q: when was the last time you really cried? When I had bad news about my brother. (for those in the know he is still going but only just
q: what was your last thought before you went to sleep? I just hope I sleep tonight.
q: what are you about to do? work at the shop
q: if you could drink anything right this second, what would it be? aLemon drink, I currently have one. But I wish it was a big glass of champagne.
q: what's your job position called? Jack of all trades, and thats no kidding.
q: what's your favorite month(s)? J January usually on Holidays, but unfortunatley not this year.
q: what was your elementary school's mascot? Didn't have one
q: what's your favorite bottled water? I think is is called tap water. I fill the bottle myself.
q: what were you doing at 9pm last night? Scrapping with some wonderful people
q: did you attend your high school prom? Had a formal, it was one that the nuns invited plenty of Boys along and they were one side of the room and the girls the other...How boring...
q: did you go to someone else's prom? No They weren't really the rage way back then
q: do you prefer coffee or tea? Tea mostly white, no sugar as I'm sweet enough.
q: something to read within 5 feet? Scrapbook Creations..
q: how much french do you know? Learnt french as school, but too long ago to remember.
q: ever crash a car, been in an accident? yes, ran over a 1 year old boy running out onto the road. and as far as a crash with another car, 1, but he ran up my arse when he wasn't looking.
q: do you look good in yellow? definately not, I look really sick
q: do you sing? mostly to myself as no one else listens.
q: ever sing in public? - When I was at school, I sang in the school productions. Bit too old and croaky now.
q: least favorite color? Like most colors, but I suppose the least favourite would be orange (bright)
q: ever had dippin dots? no.... what are they?.
q: how many driving tickets have you had? not that many, can't say too much
q: do you own your own house? not at the moment
q: at what age did you/do you want to get married? married at 20. nearly 33 years ago
q: have you ever been married? Yes am currently to a wonderful man who drives me completely insane. Tells me I didn't tell him something when I did. He needs to get his hearing tested..
q: how many kids do you have/want? I have 3 children (two Girls and a boy) and 2.5 Grandchildren all girls.
q: do you like anyone right now? plenty of fella's out there (for the girls in the shop Security) I really love all my family and friends.
Chrissy and Connie you're both tagged!!

See you all next time
Remember if you a backstabber, no offence, but please no not visit my blogg again. You will all know who you are...... and I know you are visiting.
otherwise, thanks for visiting and
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judy

Boy, she is getting touchy!!!!!

2007-02-08T21:44:00.000+11:00

We wrote out the invitations out tonight. We ran out and needed 15 more??????? Oh No. Will have to get some more printed tomorrow. Melinda started to cry! She says she has so much to do and no time to do it in!!!!! Just that it is getting so close. She is also hormonal at the moment. All these things joined together and you have one very upset young lady. HEEEEELP!!
I just gave Melinda a written list of things she has to do, and she is to mark them off as she has done them. Just noticed, after we said bye to her, that she has left it on the Dining table Oh boy... what is a mother to do. Pull out my hair, I think.
On another note I also have a long list of things to do........ but I think mine is under control. I Think?????
I should really be getting my beauty sleep instead of blogging, but if I went to bed I would just not sleep. So whats the sense.

Organised Jodies Baby shower invites today for the 18th Feb. and sending them tomorrow. Not much time but I hope people will come.
Then we have to send out invitations for the Hen's night. What happened to the bridesmaids organising it.

I had yesterday off and spent my day cleaning the house, cooking dinner ( surprised Bill, it was his first dinner I have cooked in such a long time) then I spent the rest of the day doing bookwork. I have every Wednesday off from now on. Jodie has off every Thursday.
Tomorrow we have a rather large crop night. So it will be busy. Classes will be finalised tomorrow as well.
I have decided to finish the bookwork tonight, so I am going to go and leave you wonderful people.
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judyxxxx

and one makes four....

2007-02-03T21:35:00.000+11:00

Guess what, I have completed another layout.......... I seem to get all these great ideas, but never seem to put them down on paper. I completed another lo on Friday Night crop. I think I have even surprised myself.
I even know what i am going to do for my next layout....hows that.
Went shopping today. Jodie was at the shop today so I went with Melinda to by an outfit for the wedding. We went to Shadstone. and walked and walked and walked. It is such a big place, but believe it, I didn't find anything. Went to Myer and David Jones as well but still nothing. Melinda was also looking for shoes for the wedding, but she also found nothing. Three hours later we came out of Chady only buying a drink and sandwiches. We were going to go to Knox, then I remembered a shop in Frankston from where I purchased my outfit for Jodie's wedding. So Off to Frankston Melinda and I went. Boy has that place changed in five years.... I haven't been shopping in Frankston for at least five years, and the new shopping centre and cinemas and all. I was really surprised. Any how, we went into "the shop" and was looking around and getting further and further dissappointed as the sales lady was telling me that I was at the end of the summer fashion and the Autumn Fashion wouldn't be in until the end of February/March. i decided to try on a couple of outfits, but was heading into the heights of depression. When, lo and behold she found an outfit that was the only one left..... I said yes I'll try it. Loved it. I need to continue the walking just to lose a little more and with some control under garments the fit will be wonderful. It was slimming and completely just what I was looking for. (thankyou Galants in Frankston. You have saved my life again.) So I am out of my quick depression and am on the lookout for the shoes (not stiletto), handbag and believe it or not a hat. Then I am finished. What a weight off my shoulders. Then we decided to go looking for shoes. Melinda found some for her, they are beautiful and not stiletto and I am sure she will be able to stay on them. Then looked for shoes for me but I am not that worried as I can at least color them if necessary. The Handbag is another thing I am not worried about. The Hat I am going to Factory warehouse, the sales lady is ringing me next week to tell me of the address.
Then it was off to the Cake Decorating shop. Melinda knows what she wants, but I was just looking at the shop in Frankston, that I used to work at as a Cake Decorator, They have some upto date information. I haven't done a cake since Jodie's Wedding in 1999. So this week I am starting on the cake. Will post a picture, when I have finished it.
We decided that as it was 4pm it was time for another drink, so we stopped for coffee and a well needed break. We both left Frankston quite satisfied. Then it was off to Fountain Gate to pick up Melinda's engagement ring that was it for warranty checking. So we arrived home at 5.30p.m quite exhausted. I then went looking for my garter, that I wore at my wedding and so did Jodie. Melinda is wearing this on her wedding day, then I noticed my wedding dress. Just the Petticoat was enough. The waist is so small. Gee I was tiny nearly 33 years ago. Melinda tried on my wedding dress. I was even smaller than Melinda is today, and she is only a size 10... Memories are golden. Then I was looking into the stuff in my Camphor wood chest. Old letters (loce letter I wrote to Bill in 1971 and Cards from when we were going out. Many long years ago. Then we came across some of the Kids old school work. Melinda was facinated that I have kept such things. I even have the account from the Broardbeach International Hotel on the Gold Coast ( from our Honeymoon). the account was for $31.00 thats for 7 days in 1974. I even have a photo of the hotel. By the way the Broardbeach International is no longer there. and the vacant property around it is not longer vacant.
Again Memories are golden.
Tomorrow (Sunday) Jodie is again working in the shop and Melinda and I are heading to Jeffs shed (Melbourne Exhibition Centre) to the Gift fair for traders. Another big day. We intend being in Melbourne at 9am in the Morning.
Well after such a tiring day and an enormous blogg of my exciting news. I am going to close and hope that you all out there have a wonderful night and remember that memories are golden.
I might even scrap the items I found in the camphor wood chest.
Keeps smiling and Healthy,
L
Judyxxxx Sleep tight..

Scrappin' up a storm!!!!

2007-01-28T20:45:00.000+11:00

Yes that's right, I have been scrapping. I completed 3 lo's Friday night and have another on the go. I will share with you all soon, Jodie is going to scan for me, maybe she will show me how and then I can do it too.
I think it helps having photo's you like to be able to get the mojo juices flowing. Friday night it just seemed to happen. Jodie and Jenny were quite surprised!!! It's not that I have never scrapped before but this week I just seemed to know what I was going to do, and I just got going. Maybe I should get going a lot more often.
The wedding invitations are ready for the printer, we have the list of names ready to go on the invitations, so soon they will be all out. Next weekend I am shopping with Melinda to try and find an outfit to wear. Maybe my birthday suit. AGHHHHHHHH Not with the weight on I look terrible. So I had better find that outfit otherwise I might turn everyone off their meal at the wedding. Melinda also want to find some shoes...white with a small chunky but not thick heal.. Now that explaining it lol.
I think everything is arranged so far. Only 9 weeks to go.

Saw my Mum today. Gee she looks well. It is over 3 months since she has had a smoke. So I think that is why she is looking good. She is at last putting on weight. Fancy an eighty seven yo lady smoking. She used to smoke like a chimney. Not any more. It is good to see.
Bill and I went out for Dinner tonight, just to food star in Narre Warren. Not that fantastic but it was good to go out and not have to cook..
We saw Jodie, Jeff and Cassie, after seeing Mum. We were given the royal welcome from Cassie, she is such a cutie. Love her to bits.

I am going to stop rambling for now.

Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judyxxx

Happy Australia Day to all !!!!!!

2007-01-26T09:14:00.000+11:00

Hope you all have a wonderful Australia Day. What does Australia Day mean to me?

Freedom,
Wonderful life style,
Living in peace with your family,
Health,
Happiness,
The ability to smile.

What does it mean to you?
Let me know.
Have a great day
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judy

The Natives are quiet....

2007-01-24T22:08:00.000+11:00

For the last few days it has been peaceful. No trouble. I think the uped security and visible police presence has helped. Also that we are not prepared to accept any more crap from these young whipper snappers..... I am prepared to stand up for my rights. As a shop owner they have no right to intimidate me.
On this subject, Everyone has the right to treat other how they feel they should be treated. Please do not listen to others and then act. Take the time to listen for yourself, suss up the subject and then act. Do not be in a hurry to throw stones. Just because someone else might not like that person (they may have their own reasons) does not mean that you have to not like that person as well. Time for peace and harmony. Give people the chance. Everyone has some good in them. It just has to be realeased. Even the little darlings (s*** s) they just need to be given a chance. Shown that doing the wrong thing is not the way to go. Given a chance to rectify the problem. It is when they are still physically hurting others that they need to be stopped. Really they are quite innocent. and if we, as Adults can't handle them there is something wrong. Stand up for your rights. don't listen to what others have to say. Keep on going and doing what you want to do and don't let others stop you. You have as much rights as others do.

Just about organised Melinda's invitations,
Jodie and Melinda have organised Melinda's Hen's night and Jodies baby shower.
We have 9 1/2 weeks to go until d day or days. so much to do and not enough time to do it in. But I am sure we will get it all done.
I have seen some wonderful layouts done recently. they are all very inspiring. There is great work out there. Just look.
My brother is still not well, but still hanging in there and fighting. Keep fighting Jim, we are all there behind you.
Bill and I looked after Cassie on Monday night. She didn't want to go home. I think she just wanted to spend some time with nannie and Grandpa. She thoroughly enjoyed herself and the same time it gave Jodie bit of a break. We went food shopping, i forgot how hard it was to shop with a 3 yo. Then we came home and she wanted to watch a dvdv ( this is how she pronounces it). then she wanted to ride her bike, then she had to help make drinks, then it was bath time and then dinner. We bought Icecreams for after dinner and she was in her element. Then bed time. I must admit that it was good to get her into bed. but at the same time Both Bill and I were rapt to have her stay over. Thankyou Cassie for making our day.
I am going to go to bed as i am really tired,
so until next time, keep smiling and healthy.
Judy xx

I've learnt more about life in 6 months.....

2007-01-18T19:27:00.000+11:00

Well today puts the icing on the top of the cake. I have learnt more in 6 months, than I have in 53 years...
There was a fight again outside our shop (in Hampton Park Victoria). Two girls this time....and fight they sure did. Took 4 security guards to break them up. Quite scarey. Learnt afterwards that one of them was pregnant. and the same group assulted a lady from the video shop last night.
I have seen lots of different things during the time of the shop opening than I have ever seen in my whole life, and I was brought up in Yarraville, Altona, Sunshine and Albion(the Western Suburbs the so called tough area) I new these things happened, but just didn't realize that they happen around us.
In the last week there has been trouble with the little s***s each day, there has been:

shoplifting,
s***s giving the elderly cheek
a window was broken on the shop next door to us last Sat. and then paint thrown at it. The beer bottles that were thrown at the window are still on the footpath.
The rubbish bins being full and rubbish being strewn over the place.

What is happening to the generation and society today.

I always saw this type of behaviour on the televison from American shows, I Hoped I would never see it happen in Australia, let alone in the area that I live and work.
The time has come for us civilised people of the Lucky country to stand up and make things better. Don't know how to start, but if anyone has any ideas, please let me know as I am ready to fight. Not the physicial type of way, but stand up for my rights.

On a better note:
Apart from the trouble above, I have had a wonderful, enjoyable time since Christmas with some upsetting times, but more good times than bad.

I have turned another year older (and wiser). Not sure if this is good than bad.
I have had my hair cut again, (this time in preparation for Melinda's wedding on 1st April 2007 (only 10.5 weeks away.)
Been with Melinda to look at the reception house and gardens where she is getting married.
Commenced organising the Wedding invites.
Arranged for a Dinner with Melinda's In Laws, to discuss the reception and money,
Had a massive sale in the shop which went really well.
Rearranging the shop to fit in more new stock.
Spent relazing, quality time with my family, including my two terrific grandchildren, Taylor 7.5 and Cassie 3 Years old.
Actually spent time with Bill, my equally wonderful and terrific husband.
Spent quality time with my 87 year old mother.
Worrying about the health of my brother, Jim. He is currently seriously ill in hospital. Jim is living on borrowed time at present ,but I just wish he would live on more borrowed time. but unfortunately, that is not looking promising.
Connecting Broardband at home so I can again communicate with you wonderful people from blogg land.
Meeting some wonderful and enjoyable people, and meeting some not so wonderful and enjoying people.
Enjoying Life.

But

I can quite honesly say that Life has its ups and downs, but it spreads itself out and you must take the good with the made. How boring would life be without variety.
Don't forget if you have any comments on reclaiming our rights, please let me know.

Keep smiling and healthy
Judy
xx

It's Christmas.....4 sleeps till Santa

2006-12-21T15:02:00.000+11:00

I know I have been a bad blogger, but time has not been on my side. I need70 hours in each day, just to get through what I must in the next 4 days...Don't know how I'll manage that one.
Lost the credit card the other day. Only realized when I went to use it on Tuesday Night. Now I am at the mercy of the banks.
On a happier note. It was my Mum's 87th Birthday Yesterday. I picked her up from the Nursing home and took her to the shop. Then I had her hair permed and cut. I have made a new woman of her.
On Saturday it is Cassie's 3rd Birthday. Gee time flies when your having fun Such a Cutie....
Then on Monday its Jodie's Birthday. Yes thats right Christmas Day. Jodie is 30. I don't know about her, but I certainly feel OLD..... Fancy have a 30 year old daughter.
Having the week off between Christmas and New Year. Can't wait
I will not blog this side of Christmas so I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, one that is peaceful for you all. And a very Happy ,and Prosperous New Year. Please be safe.
Until next year Keep smiling and Healthy.

Judy
Arty Pants
www.artypants.com.au

Gee I'm bad.......

2006-11-12T11:50:00.000+11:00

I haven't posted on my blogg for about 1 month. How naughty...
My excuse is I have been rally busy....
1. I have found out that my new grandchild is to be a Grand daughter. I am really excited about buying pink things again.
2. The shop is going really well. I enjoyed last weekend off and spent the time with Taylor, Bill, Mark and Danni on Saturday and we all went to Werribee Open Range Zoo. Had a really great day.
3. Sunday I slept until 12 noon. Gee I was really tired.
4. Worked Monday
5 And really enjoyed Cup Day. Although I didn't even have a bet on the cup. It had to be a first for many years. The only time I bet is on Cup day and this year I enjoyed my time without even 1 bet.
6. Worked Wed, Thurs, Frid, Had a massive crop on Friday night again and we are booked out for the next one already. We have to look into all this and try and add more!!!!!!!!!. Everyone has such a great time., Although it is a late night for Jodie and I we still enjoy the night. It is also our time to enjoy with our friends that we have made through the shop. I still say I don't have top drink to be crazy, I think people realized this this week.
7 Worked Saturday and organized more Christmas Decorations for the shop. Big changes again in store for the shop. We have to find more room.......Where oh where??????
8. Saturday night (Last night). Went to the celebration Dinner Dance at the Hampton Park Hall for the 80th Birthday Party for the Hampton Park Progress Association. Had a great night, the food was tremendous, the band was great and I think I wore Bill out again with the Dancing. Happy Birthday Progress Association.......
9. Today. Here I am agin working. Then this afternoon I am heading off to Richmond to a Trade Demonstration.......Maybe new products........Have to wait and see.

And this has just been my last week.

More excitement to come in the next few week still.

I invite all to attend the Hampton Park Festival on the 26th November 2006 9.30 - 3.30p.m. Santa is arriving, there will be lost of stalls, live band, jumping castle and more. Hope to see you there.

Keep smiling and Healthy.
L
Judee
xxx

Friday 13th

2006-10-18T09:03:00.000+10:00

Had a great crop night last Friday. As it was Friday the 13th we decided that we would offer special incentives.. We gave everyone who attended 13% off all their purchases for the night, we also had a special seat giveaway. We had 12 people attend, was 13 but you know the last minute problems arise, but everyone who attended had fun. We decorated the place with spider webs and skulls and skeletons. A lot of great work was achieved that night and Jodie and I feel so priveledged to be able to work and play with such a lovely group. Thankyou to everyone. I took some photos of the night. Just for you all to see!!!!!!!! I hope they work as they were great pics. The last one shows what time we finished. Didn't get home until 1.15p.m.
Doesn't look like the pics worked, I'll keep trying to upload.
The shop has been extremely busy the past few days, We had another Crop yesterday (this is our Tuesday Morning crop). We have to have a smaller group on a Tuesday as we have to use the back room. But all enjoyed themselves.
We now have new paper racks............ We have got rid of the old white oong ones and can fit a lot more paper in, and as well as in a smaller area. so we have more room.
The family are well and all is good.
Keep healthy and of course smiling!!!!!!!!!!
L
Judee

It's time......

2006-10-05T08:40:00.000+10:00

for me to do another post......lol....I know Connie I am just a slacker....... But I have been busy.
I have enjoyed the last two Sundays OFF. and had a really relaxing time........
Saturday I went into the shop in the arvo, thinking it would be slow..... so I pulled up a chair near the back table(comfy chair) got myself a drink(if I hadn't taken some medication I would have had champagne LOL...but this time it was a cup of tea...had the left over choclates from the night befores crop turned on the TV to settle is and watch the AFL Grand Final. I started to watch the opening and then it came........the mad influx of happy scrappers who hate football and their partners had either gone to the match or were watching it at a friends or having drinks and football at home.. I was so busy, there went my relaxing afternoon.. I did get to watch the defeat of the Sydney Swans by West Coast Eagles by 1 point.. I was going for the Swans, as my team was just being held up by Carlton Yes the Bombers. They bombed out really well this year. Maybe Next Year. I think we should have a Grand Final Crop at the shop next year to accomodate those unhappy scrappers.............What do you think.
We had the two Grandkids, Taylor and Cassie stay the night and we went to Macas. they we came home and watched Stuart Little 2 then it was bed time.....Nannie and Grandpa we sooooo tired.
Then Sunday, we had a sleep in, or should I say Nannie did....lol.
We went and saw my Mum in the nursing home, then droppped Cassie off at Jodies, went to a Christening in Cranbourne then went back to Warneet for the Arvo in the sun, then back to Cranbourne to drop off Taylor at Marks, then home...A lot was achieved in the day but is was relaxing.

Then back to the Grindstone on Monday and the same routine......Breakfast, shop, Dinner Shower and Bed... for two weeks this is what it will be....Come on the 14th October. My weekend Off . A sleep in ARH!!!!!!
Keep smiling and healthy

Judy
xxx

Awakening

2006-09-23T15:48:00.000+10:00

I got this from Sue's blogg, I hope you don't mind sue, but I was quite impressed with the wording, I hope you all think the same as I do about it. It is awakening!!!!!!
The awakening
A time comes in your life when you finally get it. When in the midst of all your fearsand insanity you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out -ENOUGH! Enough fighting and crying or struggling to hold on.And, like a child quieting down after a blind tantrum, your sobs begin to subside,you shudder once or twice,you blink back your tears and through a mantle of wetlashes you begin to look at the World through new eyes.
This is your awakening.
You realize that it's time to stop hoping and waiting for something to change or for happiness, safety and security to come galloping over the next horizon. You come to terms with the fact that He is not Prince Charming and You are not Cinderella and that in the real world there aren'talways fairy tale endings (or beginnings for that matter) and that any guarantee of "happily ever after"must begin with you and in the process a sense of serenity is born of acceptance. You awaken tothe fact that you are not perfect and that not everyone will Always love, appreciate or approve ofwho or what you are... and that's OK. They are entitled to their own views and opinions.And you learn the importance of loving and championing yourself, and in the process, a sense ofnew found confidence is born of self-approval. You stop bitching and blaming other people for the things they did to you (or didn't do for you) and you learn that the only thing you can really count on is the unexpected. You learn that people don't always say What they mean or mean what theysay and that not everyone will always be there for you and that it's not always about you. So, youlearn to stand on your own and to take care of yourself and in the process a sense of safety andsecurity is born of Self-reliance.
You stop judging and pointing fingers and you begin to accept people as they are and to overlooktheir shortcomings and human frailties and in the process sense of peace and contentment isborn of forgiveness.You realize that much of the way you view yourself, and the world around you,is as a result of all the messages and Opinions that have been ingrained into your psyche. And youbegin to sift through all the crap you've been fed about how you should behave, how you should lookand how much you should weigh and what you should wear and where you should shop and whatyou should drive, how And where you should live and what you should do for a living, who you should sleep with and who you should marry and what you should expect of marriage, the importance ofhaving and raising children or what you owe your parents. You learn to open up to new worlds and different points of view. And you begin reassessing and redefining who you are and what you reallystand for.
You learn the difference between wanting and needing and you begin to discard the doctrines and values you've outgrown, or should never have bought into to begin with, and in the process you learn to go with your instincts.You learn that it is truly in giving that we receive. And that there is powerand glory in creating and contributing and you stop maneuvering through life merely as a "consumer" looking for your next fix. You Learn that principles such as honesty and integrity are not the outdated ideals of a bygone era but the mortar that holds together the foundation upon which you must builda life. You learn that you don't know everything, it's not your job to save the world and that you can'tteach a pig to sing. You learn to distinguish between guilt and responsibility and the Importance ofsetting boundaries and learning to say NO. You learn that the only cross to bear is the one youchoose to carry and that martyrs get burned at the stake.
Then you learn about love. Romantic love and familial love. How to love, how much to give in love,when to stop giving and when to walk away. You learn not to project your needs or your feelingsonto a relationship. You learn that you will not be more beautiful, more intelligent, more lovable or Important because of the man on your arm or the child that bears your name. You learn to look at relationships as they really are and not as you would have them be. You stop trying to controlpeople, situations and outcomes. You learn that just as people grow and change so it is with love.... And you learn that you don't have the right to demand love on your terms just to make you happy. And, you learn that alone does not mean lonely...
You look in the mirror and come to terms with the fact that you will never be a size 4 or a perfect10 and you stop trying to compete with the image inside your head and agonizing over how you "stack up." You also stop working so hard at putting your feelings aside, smoothing Things over and ignoring your needs. You learn that feelings of entitlement are perfectly OK....that it is yourright to want things and to ask for the things that you want...that sometimes it is necessary to make demands. You Come to the realization that you deserve to be treated with love, kindness, sensitivity and respect and you won't settle for less. And, you allow only the hands of a lover who cherishes you to glorify you with his touch...and in the process you internalize the meaning of self-respect.
And you learn that your body really is your temple. And you begin to care for it and treat it with respect. You begin eating a balanced diet, Drinking more water and taking more time to exercise. You learn that fatigue diminishes the spirit and can create doubt and fear. So you take more time to rest. And, just as food fuels the body, laughter fuels our soul. So you take more time to laugh and to play. You learn, that forthe most part, in life you get what you believe you deserve... and that much of life truly is a self-fulfilling prophecy.
You learn that anything worth achieving is worth working for and that wishing for something to happen is different than working toward making it happen. More importantly, you learn that in order to achieve success you need direction, discipline and perseverance. You also learn that no one can do it all alone and That it's OK to risk asking for help. You learn that the only thing you must truly fear is the great robber baron of all time, FEAR itself. You learn to step right into and through your fear because you know that whatever happens you can handle it and to give in to fear is to give away the right to live life on your terms. And you learn to fight for your life and not to squander it living under a cloud of doom.
You learn that life isn't always fair, you don't always get what you think you deserve and thatsometimes bad things happen to unsuspecting, good people. On these occasions you learn not to personalize things. You learn that God isn't punishing you or failing to answer your prayers.It's just life happening. And you learn to deal with evil in its most primal state the ego.You Learn that negative feelings such as anger,envy and resentment must be understood and redirected or they will suffocate the life out of you and poison the universe that surrounds you. You learn to admit when you are wrong and start building bridges instead of walls.
You learn to be thankful and to take comfort in many of the simple things we take for granted, things that millions of people upon the earth can only dream about; a full refrigerator, clean running water, a soft warm bed, a long hot shower. Slowly, you begin to take responsibility foryourself by yourself, and you make yourself a promise to never betray yourself and to never eversettle for less than Your heart's desire. You hang a wind chime outside your window so you can listen to the wind. You make it a point to keep smiling, to keep trusting, and to stay open to every wonderful possibility.
Finally, with courage in your heart and with God by your side you take a stand, you take a deep breath and you begin to design the life you want to live as best as you can.
***Author Unknown***

All for now
Keep smiling and Healthy
Judee.

I've been tagged!!!!!

2006-09-18T09:44:00.000+10:00

Thanks Connie, as I have said, I'm like an elephant and I don't forget. I suppose except if Ive been busy. lol. Thanks anyway. It has forced me to update.

If you could build a house anywhere, where would it be? Somewhere nice and peaceful , out in the bush with not too many people around
What’s your favorite article of clothing? T shirts and 3/4 pants.... anything summery
Favorite physical feature of the opposite sex? tight sexy bums.......
What’s the last CD that you bought? Now don't you all laugh, I think it was one for Christmas, many Christmasssssssss ago.
Where’s your favorite place to be? I agree, tucked up in my nice warm BED!!! i wish i never had to get up!!!
Where’s your least favorite place to be? Inside on a nice sunny day
What’s your favorite place to be massaged? My back and neck but then again I love to be massaged, I can go to sleep.......
Strong in mind or strong in body? I would have to say my body, I seem to be able to move anything, but I must admit that the older I am getting the weaker I am getting. Then for my mind it seems to be going faster that anything, you just ask my kids....lol
What time do you wake up in the morning? When I am working 7.30a.m. when I am not wellllllll last weekend I got up at 11.59a.m. Sat and 10.30a.m. Sunday. Lazy hey.
What is your favorite Kitchen appliance? My husband and I bought him 32 and half years ago, and I wouldn't trade him in for anything..........
What makes you really angry? Manners, nothing worse that opening a door for someone and them just ignoring you.......ARGH.....
If you could play an instrument what would it be? I can but not well. The key board, but always wanted to play the guitar
Favorite color? Yellow, but if I have to wear it I must say pink/ mauves and blue
Sports car or SUV? Sports Car. MG to be exact
Do you believe in an afterlife? I think I do, as I talk to my father quite regularly, and I would hate to think that i talk to myself on such a regular basis.
Favorite children’s book? The famous Five. I used to love them and I used to get so enthralled in all their adventures.
What’s your favorite season? Summer... You can always turn on an airconditioner or cooler to get cool, but you can't always get warm enough.
What is your least favorite household choreGrocery shopping and putting them away. Anyway I haven't done it since I opened the shop, Bill does it for me.
If you could have one super-power, what would it be? To tell what people are thinking???????????
If you have a tattoo what is it? No.....I think they are stupid and a complete waste of money.......
Can you juggle? I'm all thumbs, so I suppose the answer is no.
The one person from your past that you wish you could go back and talk to? My Dad, he was my inspiration.
What’s in the boot of your car? I don't have a car, so nothing.
Which do you prefer, sushi or hamburger? Hamburger difinately as I hate raw fish, the thought turns my stomach.
I will tag.... Stephanie Lim Sorry Steph (stephyl.blogspot.com) and of course Jodie. Ha Ha Ha, How's that for laughing at me!!!!!!

Well as you can all tell from this tag I am a simple person who enjoys peace and quiet and family life.

I still haven't got a picture of my hair cut, but I am sure it will happen soon.

Will try to blog a bit more often connie. Sorry.

Keep smiling and healthy.

Judee.

No more hair.....

2006-09-03T20:52:00.000+10:00

I feel like a new woman. Everyone says I look 10 years younger. Does that mean I am old or does that mean I am young. I am not sure.
If I may say so, my hair looks good. The grey has been covered by blonde tips and the hair is short tapered into the neck and around the ears. I can wash the hair and just rub my fingers through it. It is wonderful.
It is amazing how a new look can change your whole outlook on everything.
Happy Father's day to all the fathers and congratulations to all the mothers who helped make the fathers fathers. Do you understand. As I say, if it wasn't for women there wouldn't be any fathers so again congratulations to all.
Melinda has moved into her house and it is looking good.
Jodie has been packing all weekend and still not finished, her pregnancy hasn't helped, her morning sickness lasts most afternoons and having Cassie to chase after and moving at the same time is it no wonder she is tired all the time. That is all on top of running a shop with me.
Jodie moves next Friday and may I say she is looking forward to being able to relax in her new house.
Well to you all, as soon as I can get a photo of my new hair do, I will. so until then
Keep healthy and smiling
l
Judee

Today is a new day.......

2006-09-02T09:22:00.000+10:00

All things are possible.
Today is the day for the hair cut and color.
Yay a new me.... can't wait. I will at last be able to control where the hair goes, it won't stick out everywhere.

Having this morning off and Jodie is manning the shop. It is goingreally well. Past out expectations.
We had a crop last night and it was really enjoyable. Everyone had a real good time. New people which was good.
I had a slight accident in the shop yesterday. Of course I was the laughing stock of Jodie and Danni. I was trying to move 3 shop fittings and be independant and do it by my self, and of course what happened. They all fell over, stock and all. It looked like a bomb had hit the place.
How devastating. It took me 2 hours to get it all sorted out, so much for putting out all the new products. Never mind I have copped it all last night and I suppose it will continue today.....
I have strong shoulders.

Better go, I have an appointment with the scissors......
Keep healthy and smiling.
l
Judee

Annoying Hair

2006-08-31T18:33:00.000+10:00

Annoying Hair, ARGHHHHHHHHHH
I think, I think I think it is time.............
to have it all chopped off. well maybe not ALL, but a very short haircut. Tomorrow it is twelve months since I had my last very short hair cut, as I was going into hospital on the 2nd for a major op and I didn't want bed hair. Well twelve months later and i am well and I have decided that the time has come. A new me. I may even decide to go a different shade of blonde LOL. I will change the grey to a blonde. I think this is a good idea and a new me. Time for a change. Maybe when it happens, I will post a photo.
Keep healthy and smiling.
l
Judee

Trying to get all accounts up to date

2006-08-21T20:53:00.000+10:00

Been busy at the shop this past week, trying to get all the account work into the computer. We have the accountant coming out soon and I have just so much to do. I am going to the shop early tmorrow to try to get ahead befor I have to open the shop, no telephone peace and quiet.
Gee I've been boring lately, I only seem to talk shop shop and more shop, but I suppose that is my life at the moment. I seem to eat sleep and dream shop.
Jodie and Cassie are moving into our house next weekend, as they move in 3 weeks and Cassie doesn't like the idea of packing all their furniture. So it was decided that the best way was to get Jodie and Cassie out of the way and Jeff can pack and clean. What a good husband!!!!!! Still can't beat mine as he is so compassionate, loving, good cook and cleaner and listener. Sorry ladies he's not up for swaps. I am happy with what I have got. I am a very lucky person.
Must sleep now.
Keep smiling and healthy.
Judee
xxxxoooooxxxxx

No Title, still can't think!!!!!!

2006-08-17T20:17:00.000+10:00

The shop is going well but it is like putting a jigsaw puzzle together trying to find a place for every little bit of stock. We have a large shop and still run out of room.
All the new products are starting to come in which is sooooooo exciting. We are selling them even before we get the chance to put them on the shelves. Our first crop night is tomorrow and Jodie and I are really excited as we haven't even advertised it and it is full. Looks like a great night coming up.
I got some really great news last week and I have been made to promise that i wouldn't tell until I was told I could....welllllllllllll. I have permission.......I am going to be a grandmother again. How exciting !!!!!! I can't wait but I suppose I will just have to. I have no say in it. Jodie is due on the 1st April 2007. and guess what...date...that .....is...... Melinda's Wedding day. Jodie was supposed to be matron of honour but she has resigned her position of walking down the aisle, but with any luck will still be there as Cassie is going to be one of the flowergirls, and she can't miss out on seeing her daughter with that honour. We all think that it is rather coincedental, as the day that Cassie was born is the day that Melinda and Glenn went on their first date. So I wonder if that is an omen???????? Unfortunately I have had to tell Jodie that if she goes into Labour on the 1st April, I will have to stay at Melinda's Wedding. She does understand. But there is certainly excitement in the household.
Boy is our family growing. It started off with Bill and I, to Bill, I and 3 children, then Bill I 3 children and one future son-in law, then Bill I, 3 children and 1 Grandaughter, then we added 1 son in law 7 months later, then we added another future daughter in law, then another Grandaughter and a boyfriend and now we add another grandchild, and future son in law. Boy think of all the Christmas presents, maybe Bill and i will have to start saving now. I know I have just rambled but it was fun. sorry if it was boring. In a fewshort words our family has grown from 2 of us to 8 plus 1 on the way.
Bill has been just so wonderful, he is doing all the housework, cooking dinner and doing the shopping. Thankyou darling, I love you so very much.
I am going as I feel I should spend some time with Bill.
Keep smiling and healthy.
Judee
xxxoooxxx

Time to get strong!!!!!!!

2006-08-11T19:49:00.000+10:00

I still haven't had two days off in a row either has Jodie!!!!! I had yesterday off because of not feeling well, and Jodie has had a couple of hours off. We still need to work out our time mangement. this is really important for both of us.
Looking forward to Sunday when we are having a get together with our distance closer DT Members. We are getting together to say goodbye to Chrissy who is off to Perth. We are sorry to see her go but I can assure you I am sure she will continue to give us some wonderful lo's from across the Country. Look forward to seeing you Sunday Chrissy and all the best for your new challenge the other side of Australia. Sorry for the long distance DT members but I am sure we can make it up to you in some way.
Have you heard!!!!!!.
I have started a Junior Design team.
I have it open to children between prep(Kinder) year through to Grade 6. Most of the current JDT are from local school and come into the shop. They are each given 8 pieces of paper and two packs of stickers. I try and give them a choice of their favourite colour, it is amazing what they are bringing back. I know some have had help from their parents, but who cares it is starting them off in a hobby. By the way it is not only girls I have boys interested as well.
I have some exciting activities planned for them. They are coming in quite excited about their challenges.
One little girl came into the shop the other day to hand in her challenge and before she would leave she insited on a cuddle. How cute. At least it's keeping them off the streets and maybe when they are older it will help also.
So much for my good turn this week. If any of you have any aadvise of what else I can give these talented youngsters, please give me some advise. It has become bigger that I expected. Their challenges are up on the wall for all to see and will soon be having a pride of place under a big JUNIOR DESIGN TEAM Poster. If you can come into the shop please take time to check out the JDT.
All for now.
Keep Smiling and Healthy.

Judee

Tomorrow.

2006-08-08T20:25:00.000+10:00

Looking forward to some time off. I think it is time for us to start our roster. Jodie and I will talk about it tomorrow.They say tomorrow never comes, but I think it will tomorrow.
Have you ever thought about tomorrow.......
I think I am getting too deep in thought. so enough is enough. (This is what my Dad used to say, and if he did say it you always knew that ENOUGH WAS ENOUGH.......

Starting to feel better although the doctor hasn't given me any news to make me feel better. My blood pressure is up. I have to go for an MRI, a Doppler ultrasound, Cholestrole blood tests, Glucose tests. Take more tablets. Don't they think I have had enough!!!!!!!!!!!

No more winging. Time for bed.
Keep smiling and healthy. LOL.

L
Judee

Thankyou, you wonderful friends of blogg land

2006-08-04T21:02:00.000+10:00

Again thankyou for all you kind words you have all written. Yes I know I MUST look after myself better and I promise you all that I will.
I have promised my family as I gave them all quite a shock and I have promised customers the same as they all saw the ambulance....how embarrasing.
I have been to the drs and I have been given medicine and told also by him that I am not as young as I used to be. How insulting but true.

I promise. I promise I promise.

Thanks for all the concern
Keep smiling and Healthy (I should talk lol)
L
Judee

Can't think of a title

2006-08-03T17:51:00.000+10:00

Do you ever have days when you can't think of anything. Well today is that day for me. I didn't go to the shop until late 2.30p.m. and I was told off by Jodie and Marie that I shouldn't be there. It was my time for me... I am glad I turned up as the plumbing played up again and still isn't fixed, apparently the same problem as last time plumbers will be out at 8am tomorrow. Hopefully it will be fixed properly this time.
Connie came for a visit today and it was great to see her. Thanks Connie..
The shop is going well but my health has suffered a little I think I have just done too much. I spent the day in hospital yesterday after collapsing at the shop and I had a trip in a n ambulance. How exciting. I suppose I had better do as I am told and start taking it easy, I'm not getting any younger.
I am going as I am just so tired.
Keep smiling and healthy.

Judee

I can't believe the support!!!!!

2006-07-30T16:08:00.000+10:00

Just finished at the shop....remarkable... the hard work has all paid off. Thanks everyone.
I may be able to get back to some normality now.
I actually had time to do a canvas painting this morning at the shop. I liked it so much that I put it in the window. I was rather shocked at myself.
I had a comment about my clock today. People didn't realize that you could scrapbook off the page items. It is amazing the people that think that scrapbooking is only about photos.
Cards is another item that is an amazement to people. The fact that they can actually do it has surprised them.
I was going to get my mum into the shop today, but I slept in, so sorry mum maybe next week I get you into the shop. I am sure she will be impressed, as the last time she saw it it had no product in it.... quite a difference.

Poor Jodie has the dreaded "No Voice". She is getting very frustrated. She has done a tremendous job and is presently order new products for the shop.
The Taxi broke down last night, I can just vaguely remember hearing Bill get up, but then I went straight back to sleep...Poor Guy, not only does he work hard driving, he comes home to no dinner cooked, he has to clean the house and then his wife ignores him when he has a problem????? I promise it will change. Some normality coming soon.

Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

Can't believe its 6 days!!!!

2006-07-27T20:34:00.000+10:00

Gee the time has flown. I suppose it's because its been really busy. That has been great. We need to restoke up on products, so more big orders in the pipeline. Lots of new stuff.
Jodie and I are satisfyingly (if that is a word?????) tired. We go home exhausted, but we are just so happy. We look at the shop after hours and say THIS IS OUR SHOP!!!!!!!.
We really would like to get the time to sit down and scrap, but I suppose that will come when everything is how we want it.
Thanks again everyone.
To everyone who has purchased on line thankyou also as this is how we started. A very big thankyou to all of you. Our special is going for a little longer so enjoy.

Keep healthy and smiling.

Judee
xxxxxoooooxxxxx

THANKYOU EVERYONE!!!!!!!

2006-07-24T21:34:00.000+10:00

I know I can speak on behalf of Jodie by saying we really appreciated all the lovely visits and presents we received on the grand opening of our shop ARTY PANTS!!! We can honestly say that the opening and consequent days have been a roaring success and has made all the hard work, late nights and early morning well worth it. Meeting all the wonderful people we have met through the blogs was great. thankyou for coming a visiting us, and we hope that you liked the shop.
Our families have put up with quite a lot from us over the past few months and we thank them dearly for all their help and support.
Another person we must really thank is Vanessa, from the giggle pot, she has helped us with advise and support during these tiring and stressful days.
To Kim from delish, the coffee and hot chocolates were well worth it and we needed it just at the time you bought it over thankyou.
The community of Hampton Park have welcomed us with open arms and it is a delight being amongst all these wonderful people.
Again Thankyou everyone for your continued support and encouragement during this tiring time.
Thankyou also to Jodie for all her hard work and stressful moments and putting up with me.
Thanks Jodie and I love you just so much and I look forward toworking with you for a long long time.
To Melinda, your best wishes via Text just before the shope opened,made me go all warm and fuzzy. Thankyou and I love you heaps too.
To Mark , thankyou for your help Friday night, it meant a lot to us to know that when the going gets tough the tough get going and you were there to help us out. and you know that I love you.
To Danni, Thankyou Thankyou, Thankyou, your experience with the till and bar scanning was fantastic. Thankyou for all your late nights as well.
Jeff thanks for all your hard work you have put into making our shop what it is today. Thanks, thanks,thanks,thanks thanks, don't know how to thank you any more.
To my darling Bill, thankyou for putting up with me during my ups and downs, I love you just so very very much. xxxxxxxxoooooooooooo I promise I will try and get home at a more reasonable time from now on wards.
To Marie, thankyou for the support and encouragement during the opening, prior and after. Now don't you get yourself sick again.
Now for some very funny new for you all.
Today I went to officeworks and promptly got hit by a truck. No not my car, me personally, to that truck driver, I am really sorry for getting behind you, and thankyou for stopping when you did. Another couple of feet and I think I would be in hospital. I am quite sore and sorry for my self, but the show must go on.
If I have forgotten anyone, please accept my apologies, I am feeling like I have been hit by a truck.lol
Keep smiling and healthy
l
Judee
xxxxxoooooxxxxx

Blast Off!!!!!!

2006-07-22T19:42:00.000+10:00

and boy was it a blast!!!!!!!.

Had a great day and thoroughly enjoyed it.

We had so much fun and it was great meeting the DT members personally. Unfortunately the interstate members we missed meeting you this time, maybe when we TRAVEL

It was definately worth the late nights and early mornings.

Thanks to everyone.

I am going to bed and to SLEEP!!!!!!!!!

Keep smiling and healthy

Judee

xxxoooxxx

5am Saturday morning

2006-07-22T05:00:00.000+10:00

and the shop opens at 9am.

Aprehension and excitement..but on the other hand scary and tiresome.
I have only just home from the shop and I intend being back there at 7.am
I think I have completely lost my marbles. Maybe tonight I will get a descent sleep.
For those of you not coming to the shop for specials, check out the website..10% off for 4 days only to help us celebrate the opening.
I am going to get a couple of hours shut eye and hopefully I will be bright eyed and busshy tailed later.
Keep smiling and healthy.

Judee
xxxoooxxx

2 More

2006-07-19T23:52:00.000+10:00

11.50p.m. and a little earlier than last night, but after a busy day and an early start shop by 8am. I am completely exhausted. Can't do what I used to do when I was young...Oh they were the days.
I have another early one tomorrow shop by 7am. Going to a breakfast meeting for women in business???? How exciting.
I'm going to love you and leave you early tonight as I am going to be in bed before midnight and I have 6 minutes.
Hope to see you all Saturday....... If you can't make it look on the website for lots of specials????
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

3 morre sleeps how exciting

2006-07-19T08:11:00.000+10:00

Only 3 more sleep to go until the shop opening. If you are anyhere around Shop 65 Hampton Park shopping Square, 166 Somerville rd Hampton Park 3976.Saturday 22nd July don't forget to pop in and say hello. You can see the reason for our late nights. I got home at 12.30am this morning and am leaving soon for the shop again. Sorry I didn't post last night but I was just too tired.
Any way we are on track for the Grand Opening.

For all those not able to stop by the shop, check out the website on Saturday, I am sure you will get a bargain or two, three, or four. www.artypants.com.au

Better go and keep going
Keep smiling and healthy,

Judee
xxxOOOxxx

5 to go.......

2006-07-17T21:44:00.000+10:00

Hi Guys,
Gee i'm sorry I didn't post last night, but by the time I got home from the shop and the first thing I did was go to the computer and would you believe it the internet was down. How annoying. I tried again this morning but still no luck. But here I am tonight and home from the shop again and trying again and tonight it worked, we don't seem to realize how lost we are without the internet......
Only 5 sleeps to go.
Jodie is stressing about getting the info done for the dt. but I am sure you all will understand that she is very busy. There's is nothing like stress to help the world go around lol
Well I am going I think I can hear my husband calling lol....no!!!! I'm tooooooooo tired.
Keep smiling and healthy.
l
Judee

7 days to go

2006-07-15T18:16:00.000+10:00

Yes it is definately 7 sleeps. That is if I get some sleep. I got up at 8am adn went to the shop and have just got home to shower and then we are off to a 50th Birthday party. Hopefully not a real late night lol.
Got a lot done at the shop today, the shelves are slowly being stacked still a little more building. The play room was started 1 hour ago. and I think it will be great. but I hope Parents understand that we are not babysitters for them. They must look after their own children. Lots of toys and a TV to watch. I think the kids will be well catered for.
I am going and hopefully will write tomorrow night???? with more news. I am sure you will all be surprised at how big the shop is. The bigger the better for scrappers hey.
Keep smiling and healthy.
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

8 to go!!!!!!! or is that 7

2006-07-15T00:48:00.000+10:00

The reason I don't know is that it is 12.45am on Saturday Morning and I have just got back from the shop. And guess what I intend being back there early tmorrow/today oh I don't know what day it is. We have been setting up. It seems to be taking place we are at leasst getting product on the shelves and barcoding is coming along quite well. If I see another number I am sure I will dream prices when I eventually get to bed. But I am so tired that I am sure I will sleep.
Anyhow if I get time later today (Sat) I might post a blog, but I am sure you will forgive me if I don't as Bill and I are also going to a friend's 50th birthday. and guess what I still have to make him a card...that is if I can find any supplies lol!!!
Going to bed sleep dreams everyone.
Keep smiling and healthy.
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

9 sleeps to go !!!!!

2006-07-13T17:35:00.000+10:00

We officially have Electricity.................. and we are paying for it. I didn't ever think that I would be happy to say that I am paying for electricity, but I am really excited...We got an urgent call to go to the shop this morning as they wanted to connect us up.. One day early, we didn't mind we rushed off. and we can finally have the heater on so we won't be cold any more. Hopefully Phone tomorrow.
We are down to single digits now, and only 9 more restless nights to go. That is if we can sleep.
Been doing more barcoding and ordering and paying accounts and stressing, but we are feeling that we are at least getting there HOORAY.
Not a long blogg tonight as more to do
Keep smiling and healthy
Judee
xxxoooxxx

Another one...One too many.

2006-07-12T20:38:00.000+10:00

Hi again,
Just thought I would let you all know of a wonderful lady who is to undergo surgery for Breast Cancer on the 24th July. Her name is Dawn and her blogg is One Day at a time . I shed a tear for her today but she must stay positive. More reason to donate to NBCF raffle go to ngaire's blog Blog Me Baby. Say a afew to the big man up above for her and her family and give her all your strength.
Keep smiling
Judee
xxxoooxxx

10 sleeps to go.....

2006-07-12T17:17:00.000+10:00

My Darling Grandaughter Cassie My Youngest daughter Melinda and My Eldest daughter Jodie

10 sleeps, and surprise surprise, Supposed to have power by today....Guess what NO POWER. Supposed to have ph by tmorrow night guess what NO PHONE. We only have 10 days to go and we don't have power or phone. I have said that we are opening under candle light....
I suppose you have to make a positive out of a negative. Don't know what it is at the moment.
Our advertising is already out in Stamping and papercraft saying that we are already open and we are not. It is freezing at the shop and we can't even get hot water. We must go to the loo in the dark, we can't even boil the urn that I bought for the shop, we can't set up everything, we need more woodwork done and this requires power tools, we need light to do some more painting, The one thing we can do is dust but what's the sense of that when there's more cutting and sawing to do. Looks like a very busy week next week. Even more that this week. And I can't put any more stock down at the shop as we have no security, so DH is not going to be happy about stock at home..but what can we do....nothing

Hopefully the power will be on Friday and so will the phone WE HOPE.... but we have been told that before today. Who knows....... I am sure as hell as I don't know.

On a better note, isn't it great that Ngaire's NBCF raffle has made it over the $6000.00 mark great work to everyone concerned. It is great that everyone in the craft has joined together no matter who or what they do or sell they have all joined together. There is not such thing as competition when it comes to Breast Cancer. (My lumps bigger and better that your's) can you imagine that. So let's all get together for the sake of our fabulous craft and the dreaded Breast Cancer and stop it. Competition is good. Cancer is NOT.

More photos as I promised I have added to the top of this blogg. Boy am I in trouble, Jodie has said that the war is on. She says that she can put my photo on the Web and more people will see it. and Melinda thinks this is a horrible photo of her. I don't know what they are both talking about. I think all three are great.
DH has just made dinner, wonderful man, Gee I love him. Photo of him later, he's so hard to get a photo of... I will have to be sneaky.

Well this has made my day a lot better. They say that a laugh is good medicine and good exercise.

Keep smiling and healthy.

Judee
xxxoooxxx

11 Days to go and please don't get scared......

2006-07-11T18:10:00.000+10:00

Hi,
we only have 11 more sleeps and we are doing enough of the scared bit for everyone!!!!.
Don't laugh but I actually have a horrid picture of me....yes me, I was at the shop, hair a mess painting, dusty and putting up shelving but never mind you have at last got to see me at my worst.

Jodie's having a fit at the moment because I have thretened that I am putting a photo of her up. But maybe tomorrow, I'll lull her into a sense of false security. Naughty aren't I.

Have you got a ticket from Blog me Baby (Ngaires blog) for the NBCF. Closing soon so don't forget. Lusi has found another person who has breast cancer and our prayers and thoughts are with her and her family and friends. Be aware!!!

Keep smiling and healthy

xxxxooooxxxx

love

Judee

12 Days to go!!!!!!

2006-07-10T18:59:00.001+10:00

Shop Shop Shop, Don't know where to start..... Putting up shelves, painting tatty shop fittings and making them look brand new Painting a door Pink, Yes pink Lolly pink at that. Dust and more dust, beading section to be organized, yes beads.. Easel has already been assembled, ready for the canvas'. Starting to look like a Craft Shop. Yeah.
At Last we think we are getting somewhere. Still lots to do
I am exhausted but a good feeling exhausted.
Received an email today from Ngaire (Blogmebaby). She received the scrap pack for the raffle. Have you purchased your ticket(s) yet. Great Chances and remember you are not just helping a good cause (Breast Cancer) but you also have a chance of winning a prize.

All for now! I so tired...
Keep smiling and healthy
L
Judee
xxxxooooxxxx

12 Days to go!!!!!!

2006-07-10T18:59:00.000+10:00

Playing up.....

2006-07-09T18:17:00.000+10:00

I don't seem to get any comments available for you to tell what you want. So I have just altered all my setting and I'm just seeing what will happen with this one. Hope it works

How Scary 13 sleeps!!!!!!!!

2006-07-09T17:48:00.000+10:00

Been down the shop today. The kitchen is beginning to take shape, so we can have the kettle going all the time for the coffee, tea and hot chocolate.
Still more building to do, don't know how or when this will happen but we only have a short amount of time to do it. It Will Happen..... It Will Happen..... It Will Happen.... I am willing myself that it wil happen. Wish the little fairies would come and wave their magic wand.
Cassie stayed last night, didn't jump on Grandpa this morning as we had to actually wake her. I suppose we were bad grandparents keeping her up so late..but who care she had fun and best of all wasn't grumpy today.......Thank God for that, otherwise Jodie might have been grumpy.

Bill's out side again fiddling with his MG. I definately an MG Widow. I suppose he's a shop widow. Fairs fair !!!!!!
Going to clean up, my house is a real mess, as I can't be in two places at once. It's either the shop or home and I think the shop is more important at the moment.

Hope you are all well and stay that way!!!!!
Keep Smiling

Judee
xxxxooooxxxx

14 days to go.

2006-07-08T21:20:00.001+10:00

Hi All,
Not much writing again tonight, such a busy day. We are at the two weeks to go mark and Jodie and I just sat at the shop today and thought, HOW are we going to do this. We have to be positive.

I have Cassie staying overnight with Bill and myself tonight, just put her to sleep. terrible grandmother 9.20p.m and just going to sleep. She was having such a good time at Nannie's and Grandpa's that we thought it wouldn't hurt.. Darling little angel no hassels at all. She can't wait to wake up Grandpa tomorrow morning by jumping on him and pulling him out of bed. Bill's not looking forward to that...but I suppose that what happens to grandparents...Good fun.

Keep smiling, stay healthy
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

14 days to go.

2006-07-08T21:20:00.000+10:00

15 to go!!!!!

2006-07-07T21:16:00.000+10:00

Not writing much tonight. I am exhausted, dusty and can't wait for a shower and a sleep, but I just had to keep the count down going. Only 15 more sleeps............
Keep smiling
Judee

p.s. I have been asked about my scrapbooking talents....Well I am still doing a geneology album. I have lots of photos that I found in my Mum's cupboard. Big job but very slow, maybe I will have some time when the shop opens.
By the way, I have made an off the page clock especially for the shop, so when it opens you can all get to see it then
L
Judee
xxxoooxxx

16 More sleeps........

2006-07-06T19:56:00.001+10:00

16 to go, how exciting. We get Power on Saturday Night and Phone tomorrow YEAH. We will finally be able to get things going. Jodie sent off all the newsletters today so that another thing off her list still many more to go for her and many more for me, but we have to be possitive...We will get there. the shop looks like it is a shop now. We have product, fittings, a fridge that works, desks in the right place, kettle waiting the electricity for the hot water for continual coffee and tea and of course biscuits. The only thing is the electricity and phone then we can officially set everything up and its all go.
Everywhere we went today we were asked, Well when's it opening. So with the enthusiasm we are receiving from everyone it looks like we will be successful. We look forward to meeting as many of you scrap happy people who are from here, and if any of you visit Melbourne, don't forget to come visit. The kettle will always be on. I have met some wonderful people since starting this venture that I feel like part of a great big family. Thankyou all for the massive welcome.
Sent off the prize today for the NBCF Raffle. Total was in excess of $100.00. So I hope you all buy tickets to support this worthy cause.

Cassie has been an absolute delight today, even if she and her mother did wake me at 7.30a.m. I was just is such a deep sleep. She then ventured out into the garden to "Do some gardening she told me, this is at 8am. She was still in her pj's and slippers. She came back in with mud all over her, her pj's and slippers. I imediately stripped her off, put the clothing and slippers in the washing machine and then dryer, gave her a good wash and then had to get her dressed. She was just so wonderful. when we said we were going to the shop she immediately asked ARE YOU Coming TOO Nannie?????? I said yes, her reply was yeah!!!! Gee it's nice to be loved.
I love being a Nannie.

Keep smiling and stay healthy,

Talk Soon

Judee