Her first lost tooth

 
After 5 weeks of having a wobbly front tooth, Grace's very first tooth has fallen out.  I think she's had the longest wobbly tooth in history, she was so gentle and careful with it - both excited and nervous about it coming out.  She put herself on a self imposed diet of soft food in the last few weeks, scared that she'd bite into something hard and without realising, swallow her own tooth!  She was also worried about the blood loss (she's getting better, but still not great with blood) and having to deal with that at school.  Lucky it all worked out exactly as she'd hoped, and she lost her very first tooth in the privacy of her own home with a parent around to help.

When it did finally come loose (it had been barely hanging on over the last week!), it was just after school and Duane was home with the kids.  Grace started crying, and Duane wasn't sure what was wrong as she sat crying with her mouth firmly closed.  Finally she said it was her tooth, so Duane asked her to open up so he could have a look and sure enough there was just a big gaping hole!  The tooth was floating around loose in her mouth, so he got her to spit it into a tissue and they cleaned it up.  Once I was home, we put it in the little decorated match box that we had waiting and left it on the kitchen bench for the tooth fairy.

The next morning, immediately after opening her eyes, Grace said she just knew that the tooth fairy had been last night as she'd felt her tickle her on the cheek.  Xav, who was hoping for a visit from the fairy himself, was quite dissapointed that he hadn't felt her come, to which Grace explained that she wouldn't be visiting him until he also started loosing teeth!  She jumped out of (our) bed and ran out to see if her tooth was still on the table.  The match box was still there, but also was a little wooden tooth box covered in fairy dust.  She carefully opened up the drawer of the box and inside was a delicate silver charm bracelet with a single fairy charm.  She was over the moon and thrilled that the tooth fairy had left her something so special.  Xav was unfussed with the offering, and just said "Where is the money?"  The tooth fairy had also been kind enough to allow us to keep her tooth as it's her very first lost one and something sentinmental Mummies like to keep - very understanding tooth fairy!

Happy 4th Birthday Xav!

Dear Xavier,

You have been so excited to be turning the big 4, and now you are finally here!  Although the time has probably felt like forever for you, it certainly hasn't for your sentimental Mummy.  I feel like it wasn't that long ago that we were synced together in labour and meeting for that first magical time.

The last year has been an adjustment for you, working through the new family dynamics as Grace is now at school and I'm having to spend more time away from you for Uni.  I know it's been tough at times for you, but you are bravely moving forward and forming a different type of normal.  Your growing into such a beautiful little boy, but there is still a part of you that needs that reconnection back to me - which sometimes means you get upset if I have to leave.  When I am around though, you often find me for cuddles and kisses and then you are happy to go off again.  It's not unusual to have this happen every half hour or so, or even just a quick cuddle of my leg as you dash from one activity to another.  I hope you never get to old for cuggles.  You've also wanted to spend more of the night in our bed having cuddles.  I know it's probably because you are missing me during the day, so just catching up on time overnight and I don't mind at all.  I love waking up in the morning, with your arms slung over me and your soft breathe on  my cheek. Every morning you wake so happy and I really cherish our morning talks and snuggles.

You are loving pre-school and have a little group of friends that you have become very attached too.  One little boy especially that has become one of your favourite people.  We hear stories about Deklan all.the.time!  Everything is judged by if "Deklan would like it?"  Deklan for a while only wore shorts to pre-school, so of course, that is all you would wear - even on cold winter mornings!  I had a chat to Deklans mum and from then on she sent Deklan in pants, so then you were happy to wear yours.  We bought you a new pair of running shoes and the first things you said about them was "Deklan is going to love these!"  You were so excited when I said we could invited Deklan along to your birthday, but then I think you were a bit star struck when he did come!  I haven't got the heart to break it to you that Deklan will be heading off to school next year and you have another year of pre-school.  Another little boy that you have become good friends with and who will be in your class in prep is going to be starting up at pre-school soon, so I'm hoping that makes it easier for when Deklan leaves.  You teacher Miss Amanda says you do wonderful at school, and have so much fun.  She's always telling me about the crazy and witty things you have to say and says they are always laughing about you!  Funny little boy!

The love you and your big sister share is beautiful to witness.  There are plenty of disagreements, but most of the time you spend together is in sibling bliss.  You've both gotten to the age where most problems or arguments can be sorted out between you, which makes life very easy for your parents!  I love hearing you both manipulate negotiate with each other, and most of the time it all works out perfectly fine with no adult assistance.  Although you've adjusted to lots more time playing by yourself, you still relish the times you and Grace can engross in some togetherness.  Every morning I feel guilty for hurrying you both up and breaking the wonderfully imaginative games that you create together.  Grace, being the beautiful soul that she is, is still very inclusive of you and not yet showing signs of being too cool to hang out with her younger brother. 

You have such a beautiful imagination, and spend so much of the day playing in your own little world.  Your cars and trains are favourites at the moment, especially the little electric trains you got from Nanny and us for your birthday.  I'm trying to spark your interest back into drawing, but your not fussed and more prefer to be riding your bike or zooming the cars around on the tiles.  Your beloved matchbox cars (all 100 of them!) are still your go to toys.  you can spend hours pushing a tiny little car around the house, pulling up mats as you go to make bumps.  I've always got a few random cars in my handbag, which makes for waiting around or uni visits with me so much easier as you play around on the floor.  You also love cooking, and we often have impromptu cooking days baking some of your favourite recipes - mainly muffins, cakes and biscuits.  You have a real sweet tooth, and unlike your sister who can regulate how much sweet stuff she can eat, you could quite easily gorge yourself forever.  

I'm expecting a growth spurt soon, as it seems you've been the same height and weight for a while now!  I weighed you the other day, and at 4 y.o you weigh 17kgs (in Pj's) and are 105cm tall.  I looked back over Grace's book and at the same age she was closer to 20kgs and 115cms tall!  You are such a lightweight to pick up, and as you are so small, I'm able to carry you for small times if you need it.  You've stepped up the amount of food you want lately though, so I'm expecting some growth to happen! 

Xav, you are my little shining beam who lights up our life.  Having you around is never boring, whether we are laughing at your quick wit or pulling our hair out with your crazy ways - it's always fun.  I love you so much Xav, and the last 4 years have been some of my favourite as I've watched you grow and bloom into a confidant little boy.  I feel so blessed to be your Mother, and also for the special bond that we have together - it's overwhelming sometimes how connected I feel to you. 

I love you Xav xx

First week of Prep

First week of Prep a HUGE success!!

There were tears on the first - lots from me and a few from Grace, but the rest of the week went smoothly and even better than I expected.  It was only in the last few weeks of pre-school that Grace was happy to wave goodbye without the clinging and pleading for me to stay longer, so I am amazed and proud that this week at Prep has gone so well.

We had quite the fan club attend Grace's first day (Grandma, Nanny, Duane, Me and Xav), so that in itself was enough to make the situation overwhelming.  Grace was keen to go though, getting ready nice and early and excited to meet up with her friends.  We got to the school at 8.30am, and mixed in with the other parents and children who were showing varying degrees of nervousness and excitement.  Grace was sticking close to Duane, but was happy to tag along finding her bag-cubby and unpack her lunch box and drink bottle. 

It wasn't long till Miss Pam rung the bell and the kids were all told to change from there outside shoes into their inside slippers and come inside for Morning Circle.  Once in the room, they all had to find their symbol which was in front of a cushion all layed out in a big circle in the middle of the room.  Then it was a welcome talk and straight into the morning song that gets sung every day.  Then there is a goodbye song, and the parents get kissed, cuddled and waved goodbye!  I was still wearing sunglasses at this stage, which were perfect to hide the tears that were slowly sliding down my face.  I felt bad later though, as I really wanted to have a little chat to Grace before I left, but didn't want her to see me so upset.  She was a little clingy and some tears were springing, but she was happy to sit back down and watch the story that Miss Pam had conveniently started to tell.

It was just so overwhelming and emotional, sending my little baby girl off to school and knowing that she'd be there for five whole days for about 13 years.  Unbelievable.

The rest of the week went wonderfully.  There were no more tears, just eagerness and excitement to get to school, including lots of nagging from about 7am about when we can get going! 

It's been a bit hard getting out of her what she has been doing but she's slowly revealing the mystery that is the school day.  I know they do Yoga everyday, and she's been showing us all the poses she is learning.  They also have a dry creek bed that they fill up with water 2 days a week for the kids to play in - how cool is that!.  We have been reminded to pack a rash vest and swimmers on those days so that lots of cool water fun can be had!  They are also learning Italian, and have been reading "Pinocchio" in the language.  She's talked about drawing, playing in Home corner, reading, hearing lots of stories, playing outside, singing, dancing and generally having a fantastic time.  The kids are also given the opportunity for a rest after lunch, which Grace did on the first 2 days.  I was prepared for her to be exhausted after the first few days, but having the rest meant she was fine and wide awake till 8pm!!!  She didn't sleep the last 3 days though, and although she is a lot more tired, she's not as feral as I expected. 

Seeing her in her little uniform is beyond adorable.  Although she is one of the youngest in her class (the children have to have turned 5 before starting), she is one of the tallest and definitely didn't have the problem of an over-sized uniform!  Each day is a different colour, which works wonderfully as I only have to wash the uniform once a week! 

~~Monday is Purple day~~

~~Tuesday is Red day~~

~~Wednesday is Yellow Day~~
(We took Grace's friend Sairayah to school today as her Mum had an early appointment)

~~Thursday is Orange day~~

~~Friday is Green day~~

Morning tea is provided and the kids are all involved in the preparation, which is fantastic as it means I only have to send lunch - bonus! Monday they made rice with beans,seaweed and soy sauce (big hit with Grace!), Tuesday was fresh fruit with Jalna natural yoghurt, Wednesday they made fresh bread, Thursday was carrot cake and Friday was apple crumble.  I'm salivating over it all!!

She is eating like a horse though, and after the first day requested that I put more food in please!  Seems a sandwich, snack cup of yoghurt, capsicum, cucumber and cheese is not enough lunch for my growing girl!  She's been loving everything I've packed though, so I've kept it the same and just added some watermelon and banana bread.  The lunch tins still coming home empty, but she says it's enough now.

Morning aren't even as bad as I thought they'd be.  Both kids are getting up about 6.30am, having breakfast then getting an hour or so of play time together - something Xav is really missing.  It's a big change for those 2 to not be together every day, and he is struggling a bit with it.  The first day he was quite happy, but the next few he kept saying how much he missed Grace and asking constantly if it was time to pick her up yet.  It's also made him reluctant to go to pre-school as he wants her to come with him.  He's been fine once he's there and having lots of fun, but just says in the morning "I am NOT going to school today"  He is also getting very upset when he can't see Grace if we are out.  This afternoon we were at the rock pools after school, and he got really distressed when Grace walked over to the playground and he couldn't see her.  It's sweet, but I do feel really sorry for him, however I'm determined to have lots of beautiful Mummy-son time on the days we have together.  I'm sure he'll be fine, it's just a big adjustment after having her by his side for the last 3 years.

I've worked out the time we have to leave home perfectly, 8.30am!  It's a 7min drive door-door meaning we arrive in perfect time to pack things away and go into the class room at 8.45am - I love living so close and not having any traffic!!  Pick up is similar, we leave here at about 2.35pm, ready for Miss Pam to bring out the children at 3.50pm.  There's also the option of driving straight up to the pick-up zones between 3.00pm and 3.10pm, where Miss Pam will open the door and buckle the child in and you can keep going!  This also can be done for morning drop-off - perfect for all the Mum's with new little babies, especially in this horrid heat we have had lately.

I'm just so proud of how wonderful Grace has taken to being at school.  I was unsure how she'd go as she's quite a sensitive and emotional little girl, who loves to be with Duane and I.  She's confidant though, and is adapting to the new environment and situation with absolute ease.  I'm hoping next week goes just as smoothly.

Prep Eve

It's the night before Grace's big debut at Prep, and the whole house is excited!  Grace, even though she was totally exhausted from celebrating all day, was too excited to go to sleep.  As I was laying beside her at bedtime, she confided that her tummy feels "just like it did on the night of her dance concert".  It took her forever to drift off, finally succumbing to sleep at 8pm.  She is going to be exhausted tomorrow!

Everything is ready to go.  The iron and board were dusted off and I reacquainted myself with the art of ironing, so all her tops are nicely pressed.  Tomorrow is purple day, so her purple top and navy skirt are hanging ready for the morning.  I went nuts with the sharpie pen and everything is labelled and packed into her new purple bag, including her cute slippers for inside time.  I've got the stainless steel lunch tin and drink bottle chilling in the fridge, ready to be filled in the morning with the menu she has selected.  She had a big long soak in the bath tonight and her hair was scrubbed and conditioned after not having been washed for a month very long time. 

Now all that is left, is for me to ponder how in the blinking way MY little baby girl is ready to head off to Prep tomorrow.  It's seems like only last week I was worrying about teeny-tiny clothes and muslin wraps, and now it's all about school uniforms and bags.  They told me it'd go quick, but it's gone faster than I ever could imagine.

Trip to the dentist.

I've been meaning for a while to book the kids in for a  dental check.  Mainly to get them used to it, but also to double check that their teeth brushing vigilance was not all in vain. 

Getting an email from the Uni to say that children could book in for a free (love it!) check-up, scale and clean was enough motivation for me to sign them up!  Ah, the perks of being a poor uni student.





Grace was quite excited about going and even decided herself that she'd go first to show Xav how much fun it was.  Xav was quite adamant that he wasn't going to the dentist, and he was in no way going to open his mouth.  I was banking on him watching Grace have "so much fun" and not being able to contain himself from jumping into the chair himself.  I was also hoping that the lure of the mechanical chair would make the visit all the more appealing.

Grace was still excited, well until we walked into the room and then she went to tears.  She starting screaming and crying, saying she didn't want to have a turn and that she wanted Xavier to go first.  Xavier, meanwhile was huddled up to me whispering in my ear that he was not going first, and didn't even want a turn at all.  Crap.  My free dental visit was going to be wasted!

After some coaxing and calming, Grace agreed to laying on the chair with Duane.  It took another 5 minutes of the very patient dentist mucking around with a stuffed crocodile before she calmed down and agreed to open her mouth.  Once she was over the initial drama, it all went perfectly.  The dentist said that her teeth are beautifully spaced, which is a good sign for when her adult teeth come through and also congratulated her on her great brushing abilities - her pearly whites are in perfect condition!  He was actually quite surprised that she brushed and flossed all by herself, and told her to keep doing whatever she is doing as her teeth are wonderful.

Xav was next, and he was not a problem at all.  He played there with his mouth open wide whilst the dentist poked and prodded around, after a bit the dentist said he just wanted to double check something.  He called over the supervisor who had a look in, then laughed.  Seems what the first dentist had thought was a potential cavity, was in actual fact a piece black food.  Xav's teeth were also given the tick of perfection, and both kids were sent on their way with a new toothbrush and toothpaste each.

It's starting to look like the kids have got their fathers beautiful, strong teeth and not my dodgy ones - which I am over the moon about!

Xav starts pre-school

Last Wednesday my little Xav started pre-school for the very first time. He's never done any childcare, so this was his first foray into formal care - something I've been waiting until he is 3 to start. I really regret starting Grace at 2 - she & I both hated it, so after sticking it out for a bit I stopped her going. She wasn't ready and I didn't really need her their, I just got seduced by the thoughts of a toddler free day whilst I had a young baby, but looking back it wasn't necessary and didn't benefit anyone.

The centre that she was going to wasn't that great either. Actually, it's not that it was bad, just doesn't even come close to how fantastic the pre-school is that she goes to now. It's run for children aged 3-school age, all in the same room. It's in an converted house on acreage, so the kids have so much room to run around. They have chickens, guinea pig, huge sandpit, vegie gardens and a gorgeous outside wooden hut set up with lush big cushions for story time. There are 2 main carers with a student helper and they are all fantastic and so genuinely interested in the kids. They spend the days doing all the usual kindy things, plus sewing and cooking. Grace, although is still a little clingy when I go, loves it and I have no doubt that she is being treated as well as I would myself. The added bonus is as the pre-school is affiliated with her school, most of the children going on to school next year will be in her class. I think we worked out about 30 of the children that go to pre-school (only about 15 from the Tue/Wed group) will be starting together in the same class next year. The parents and children have all had time to develop relationships, that can only be beneficial for the school transition. Grace will be in the Moonlight prep room, and as part of the introduction to school, her prep teacher comes out to do a home visit. Ours is in August, and although to start with I was nervous about what they would be looking at/for, I've been reassured that it's merely just a visit for the child. It gives the teacher a chance to meet the children in their own environment, and spend an hour or so getting to know them and hopefully make the adjustment next year easier. I'm still trying to comprehend that my little baby girl, next year, is going off to school full-time. Even thinking about that makes me teary, yet excited about the next stage of her life. Everyone says how quickly it goes, but you don't really understand that until looking back. It feels like not that long ago I was cuddling my firstborn baby, not even thinking about school etc - all that seemed so far away. But it isn't. That precious time flies by so quickly.

Anyway, total digress. This is about Xav, and his new adventure.

I always knew that he's be fine, and I highly doubted that there would be any separation problems for him. He's been coming up with me every week for the last 18 months, he's comfortable with the place and the people.

He was so excited on his first day. He woke at 6am, and spent the whole morning asking if it was time to go yet. His bag was packed and re-packed as he raced around finding all his favourite things to take along and eagerly helping me make his lunch. I'd taken him to spotlight last week to pick out some material for his new bag, of course it was one covered in cars.

We took up the volcano, and as it was pouring outside we set it up inside ready to explode. All the kids sat around it in a circle and Miss Amanda made up a chant for them to say to get it to erupt. All the kids were excited! I loaded it up with bi-carb, and then poured in the red vinegar and waited for it to bubble over. The kids all roared with amazement as the red, froth started oozing over the top and all down the side. I set it off a few more times, and even after that the kids were requesting more! They would have loved to play in the "lava", but as it was set up inside, we explained that it would be too hot and they'd all just have to watch.

After the volcano was cleaned and packed away, it was time for me to say goodbye. Grace normally asks me to stay, but today she assumed the caretaker role and was quite happy for me to leave so she could look after Xav. Xav, the child that I have loved and taken care of for the last 3 years, couldn't have been any more fussed if I had walked out without saying goodbye. I insisted on a kiss and cuddle, but it was a brief farewell as he had things to do - busy boy!

It felt so strange to be driving away, leaving both my children in the care of others. It was my very first day child -free day. Of course I don't have them when I'm at uni (well, sometimes I've dragged them along), but this was different as I had nowhere that I had to be. I went home, did a token clean up, quickly did some school work and then spent the rest of the afternoon laying on the couch watch Private Practice. I'd got the first episodes on Dvd from the library as I'd missed them when it was on normal Tv. I watched 4 episodes back-to-back, whilst enjoying a few cups of tea and the best (Aldi) choc chip biscuits. It's been a long time since there has been silence in my house, considering my 2 ratbags don't sleep during the day! It was only 1 day of luxury though, as from now on Wednesday will be dedicated to housework and study.

Duane and I went to pick the kids up together, hoping for a bit of excitement. Nothing. They both wanted to stay and play. I asked the carers how Xav went, and they just raved about how well he fit in and how great and easy he was. There was one comment though about how much more "full on" he was compared to Grace! Very true! He doesn't stop moving or talking.

I asked him on the way how how his day was and in such an excited voice he told me "I was so much fun I got to have morning tea and then have a sleep" Gosh, the things he finds fun!

The Dummy - Is it gone?

~~Last photo I have of Xav with his dummy~~

I think that my little boy has ditched the dummy. All by himself.

It's kinda come out of the blue, so I'm a little shocked and unsure whether it will last or not. My fingers are crossed that it is the end of sucking on latex for Xav, however I'm keeping a spare one hidden in my bedside table just in case he gets upset later tonight.

We spent the day at the mall, trying to find the perfect birthday present for Duane who turns the big 36 tomorrow. I'm hoping that the random phone catologues and constant talk of how his phone is breaking was obvious hit dropping, cause I've splurged and bought him a new one. Our local phone guy (friend of a friend!) even knew exactly the one he wanted when I went in, saying Duane was in the previuos week drooling over it. So I'm sure he'll be happy come present unwrapping time tomorrow.

So we spent the day wandering around. It was suppossed to be a quick trip (yeah right, we were there for 6 hours!!!) and we were plannng on being home by lunch time for the kids to rest, but time got the better of us and before I knew it it was 1pm and Xav was starting to fade. I fished around in my handbag and found a lonely dummy, he layed down in the pram and fell asleep. He only ever has his dummy for sleep time, but it is something that he is very attached to and always guarantees him going to sleep instantly.

Once he woke I took him to the toilet, where he accidentally dropped the dummy into the toilet. I got the gross job of fishing it out with giant wads of toilet paper, yuck! Xav wasn't upset, but he decided the best place for the germ covered thing was straight into the bin and promptly dumped it in there quite happily.

I explained to him that he wont have a dummy now, even at nighttime and he was fine with that.
Fast forward to bedtime tonight and he was still ok with being tucked up in bed with only his blankie and Iggle, not even asking for his num-num. I was so shocked, expecting tears and lots of protesting. Seems my little baby is growing up though, and no longer needs a piece of plastic to suck on as he goes off to sleep.

He slept all night, only waking once at 10pm for a quick drink of water. There were no tears, protests or demands for his dummy. I couldn't believe it, I was fully expecting a long night of comforting a small boy as he mourned for his beloved dummy.

So, after the easy night I was a bit unsure how the day sleep would go. He asked a few times for his dummy, but after talking about what had happened to it and how it was in the bin - he was fine. Once again, no tears as he headed off to sleep clutching his blankie. One funny thing now though, where he used to lay down quietly and drift off to sleep, he now sings VERY loudly as he winds down. I guess he can now, his mouth is no longer plugged up!

So far, it looks like this is going to be a dream run to ditching the dummy. I'm just a little unsure how easy he is going to sleep when he are out and about now? He is a great sleeper and has a wonderful ability to sleep wherever and whenever. He'll sleep in the corner on the floor, any ones bed, in the pram and even in the bottom of the trolley. As long as he has his dummy and blankie, he'll nod off anywhere. I'm certain part of the reason he does this as since about 12 months I've kept his dummy as just something special for when he goes to sleep, he's not been allowed to have it apart from then. I've done this for a few reasons. First one being my own silly reason of not liking to see toddlers wandering around with dummies in and not wanting that for my kids. Secondly, I'm aware of the speech and dental problems that can happen with prolonged and extended use of the dummy and didn't want to contribute to Xav's already noticeable lisp. I know that the dummy is a comfort thing too though, and I never want to deny my children comfort, I just would prefer to give hugs, kisses or blankie than plug them up. Of course, I had no qualms with plugging up a comfort sucking baby, dummies are a godsend for an unsettled bubs with a strong sucking reflex - plenty of times a dummy was used to pacify ! I just think that there are other more age appropriate ways of settling an upset toddler, but I guess I'm contradictory cause I didn't mind him having it at bedtime.........Anywho....

Blankie is no doubt going to take top position as most favourite item now, and I have no problem in Xav carting blankie wherever he wants and whenever he wants. Most of the time he is happy for blankie to stay on his bed and go in for a cuddle and regroup every now and then, but we have had the occasional day where blankie has joined us for a trip to a friends house or in the car!

I'm never going to make him get rid of blankie, my little boy cuddling and patting his blankie is one of the most endearing and sweet things about him. Of course if blankie survives into the teenage years, I might have to whisper into his ear that it's not appropriate to be taking it along on dates.........

Happy 4th Birthday Grace

Dear Gracie,

Wow, 4 years my dear. I'm still slightly in denial that the little girl in front of me is actually my baby girl - you have grown so much.

You are my sweet little girly-girl, always taking delight in the prettier things and living by the motto that a "girl can never have too much bling" I'm not really sure where you get your fashion obsession from, but it's a beautiful trait and can either having me tearing my hair out trying to change you or laughing my head off. You have an amazing way of pulling together outfits. I look at you as you make the choices from your wardrobe, thinking to myself that will never work - but you always manage to pull it off.

You are my gentle, loving little girl, who has no problem being raucous or loud. You love the outdoors and are in your element surrounded by nature, especially pretty flowers. You have a love for nature that is showing itself more and more everyday. Apart from your current phase of ant squashing, you love all animals and have a special place in your heart for any furry friend that you meet. Your ultimate pet would be a pony, and one day I promise, I will make that dream come true.

You're my right hand girl in the kitchen, always wanting to help out. You can make your breakfast all by your self (toast or cereal) and you've even got a few meals up your sleeve for when I can't be bothered cooking. Spaghetti on toast is something that you can whip up from start to finish, and you do often. You also love nothing better than baking something yummy, then licking the beaters and bowl clean.

Although there are many fights and arguments, I know that you adore your little brother. You are the first to check if he is ok when he cries, offering a sisterly cuddle and reassuring words. He really looks up to you Grace, and he spends most of the day wanting to be like you - both good and bad. Watching the 2 of you laugh and play together is a sight that I never tire of. Watching my 2 children interact and love each other, its just magic to know that we have given you both the gift of a sibling. I love you for sharing your love with him.

Your 4 now. It's been a wonderful and sometimes challenging past year - 3 was definitely a year of testing boundaries, but apart from all the "interesting" times, it's been an absolute delight parenting you. With the testing times, also comes loads and loads of truly special moments. Your chatter, although at times makes me want to invest in gaffer tape, is hilarious. The sound of your own voice is so obviously pleasing to you, so talking just for the sake of talking, happens A LOT. The conversations that you have though are beautiful, giving us a glimpse into how you adorable mind all works. Your chatter gets quicker as the day ends, it's like you have a daily quota of words that you MUST get through.

You have matured so much over the last few months, I've really noticed a change in your attitude and how you interact with everyone. You're much more sympathetic, helpful and understanding. You're slowly realising that there is more to the world than our little realm. We love confusing you with family trees, watching your little eyes squint as you try to work out the logistics of Nanny having a baby and that baby being your Mummy. You're always asking if Mummy or Daddy did the things that you do now, when they were little.


Your happy to play with the kids, but most of the time your hanging around the adults, listening and observing and then asking a million questions about what is being said. I know that this is payback from what I used to do to my own Mum, karma and all that. The only way to pry you apart from the adult talk is to put you in charge of a baby, then you are in your element. You would dearly love a baby brother or sister to fuss over, your maternal side is such a strong part of your personality. Although I loved having you and Xav born so close together, I often wonder how much easier things would have been if he was born with you at this age, and you being such a wonderful helper.

I've taught you how to hand sew and finger knit, and we have been busy making Christmas decorations. For a girl that wouldn't sit still to do anything, you've developed so much patience with these 2 new skills. I set you up with a threaded needle and you are quite happy to sew and sew and sew. You love it even more if I sit and sew with you, it always turns unproductive though as we chat and giggle to each other.

You're most treasured things are your jewellery, your favourite clothes and your family. You absolutely adore a particular pair of jeans, that you have carefully packed away for next winter. I don't have the heart to tell you that, the way you are growing, they will be closer to shorts by the time next winter rolls around. I guess when a girl finds a perfect pair of jeans, she lives in them right?!

You love your Daddy with every ounce of yourself, you truly are a Daddies little girl. His fingers are getting constricted from being wound so tightly, but he loves every minute of it. He is the one you choose to cuddle of a night if you sneak in to our bed. I try to steal you away, but you always shimmy back to your Daddy. He is who you want when you are sick or upset, at your happiest and most content in his loving arms. He makes you feel safe and loved and its really beautiful to see the special bond you have together. You're his little girl, and I have no doubt, that however old you are, there will always be a place for you in his arms. You definitely did score in the Daddy stakes though, yours is top of the range - absolutely brilliant. I look at the relationship that the 2 of you have and I often wonder if it was the same between me and my Daddy. You are at the exact age now I was when I lost mine, and can't even bare to think about that happening to you and Xav.

You are a beautiful girl Grace, both inside and out. Of course I am completely biased, but looking at you, still takes my breath away. I am in awe that your Daddy and I could create such a stunning little girl that seems to be getting more beautiful as she gets older. You have the most gloriously soft and creamy skin, so silky and completely blemish free. Your little button nose has been with you right from the start, its the cutest little ski-jump and gives you an adorable profile.

Your face is so expressive, so much so that I'm sure you'll make a lousy poker player. Everything you feel is written all over your face. The toddler body is all gone, replaced with a long torso and shapely "go on for miles" legs. You still have the little pot belly though, a cute reminder of my little baby girl. Your hair is such a beautiful honey blonde colour, when it's wet it reaches the top of your bum. When its dry, it's curls up gorgeously, tucked behind your ears or held back with an Alice band. I love playing with your hair, trying out all sorts of hairstyles, but you only have so much patience before you demand it to be put back in a head band and left alone.

This will be our last year at home together before Prep. You will be heading off to pre-school 2 days a week starting next year, and I'll be off to uni (hopefully!) I'm sad that in your last year at home, we will be separated, however I'm vowing to make as much time for you as you need. I'm promising to make this your 4th year, the very best. We will make many beautiful memories, I want you to remember this part of your childhood as your BEST. I'm running with your vivid imagination, and this year is going to be the most magical yet, full of wonder and excitement. I promise, that although I will be busy with school I will always make time for you.

Grace, you really are my little sunshine girl. I hope that you realise how much we all love you and how much joy you have bought into our family.

You have a very special place in my heart. YOU are the one that made me a Mother, all that time ago. I barely can remember life with out you, it's like a piece of you has always been with me, waiting for the right time to join us. I knew deep in myself that one day I would be blessed with a daughter and you are everything and more that I could ever want.

Every night, as I am heading to bed, I go to check on you. Asleep, your face is an exact image of yourself as a baby - a reminder to me that you were once my dependant newborn.

Happy 4th Birthday to my very special first born. I love you as much as you could possibly imagine, and more.

Love Mummy xx

Grace's Birthday

I tucked my little girl in bed, for the very last time as a 3 year old. We talked about the last 3 years, and how tomorrow she would be 4. The birthday fairies were going to come and spread her with magical fairy dust, then tomorrow she would wake up older.

I read her a beautiful birthday story, then kissed her goodnight and we cuddled until she was asleep. I love the drowsy time as my children slip off to sleep, its one of my favourite times with the children. Watching eyes get heavy and speech become slower, then slowly there little bodies relax as they drift off to dreamland.

This morning she woke, excited about it being her very special day. I gave her her birthday crown to wear, which she did for the morning. We had some cuddle and reminiscing time on our bed, along with an unsuccessful family photo shoot.


Nanny had sent up a special birthday present a few days earlier, so it was taken down from the hiding place and handed over to the birthday girl. The very lucky girl was given a lovely wooden flower press, complete with pre-pressed flowers from Nannies garden. She wasn't too sure what it was, but after some showing and explaining, she understood and was very excited about pressing her very own flowers from the garden. She also was given a beautiful craft book, full of wonderful ideas for us to do together. There was also a smacker lip gloss, which she has had permanently attached to her hip since, so I guess that was a hit!

Grandma and Poppy came up about 7am, then we headed outside for the big present unveiling. It was our old sink that my Fil had built into a bench. It's set up so the hose connects straight to the bottom and the kids can use the top like a normal tap. She was thrilled with the surprise, her and Xav both wanted to play with it straight away.

She then was given a present from the grandparents, a dish drainer and dishes to go on the side of the sink.

It was only a quick play with the new sink, as we had planned to head down to Paradise Point for a big beach breakfast.

The kids ran amok on the playground, chasing Poppy and Daddy around, whilst Wendy and I cooked the big feast. There was bacon, eggs, toast and crumpets. All washed down with a special treat of Grace's favourite apple juice. I was stoked as there was a power point, which meant I could take the jug and have endless cups of tea.

After a delicious breakfast, the kids headed out on to the jetty to give their new kites a fly. Xav got bored quickly, and Grace wasn't too far behind - however Duane and Trevor were having a blast.


After cleaning up, Wendy and I perched in our fold-up chairs, right beside the beach to catch the breeze. We watched as the kids splashed and frolicked in the shallow waters.

Duane dropped Grace & I off at Nicole's house, and he headed how with Xav for a siesta. Poor Duane has come down again with giardia, he had it about 2 years ago, whilst I was pregnant with Xav. Apparently it's something that can flare up again, and seems it has in him. He's on a strong a/b now, so hopefully it gets the rotten parasite out of his system.

We hung out at the Truets for the afternoon, just lazing around and chatting. Duane turned up at about 3pm to pick us up, which is when he gave me the wonderful news that we were now $4700 richer. Yippee!!

We headed up to the Silkwood school for the markets and Christmas carols. I had big plans of preparing a picnic dinner, but forgot, so was hoping that food would be available. We weren't disappointed. Firstly we all enjoyed some chop suey and rice, then the kids moved onto gelati for dessert. Duane reminisced over his Japanese food days, and had some takoyaki balls.

I managed to snare a few bargains from the stalls. A wooden clock for the basement price of $1 and a cute little holly hobby nappy cover, which is going to look devine on a certain little 6 month girl that I know.

The kids, of course, were immediately drawn to the face painting. Both gave their stock standard request - Xav wanting a scary spider and Grace a beautiful butterfly.

Duane & I got to relax on a picnic rug chatting to some friends, whilst the kids played chasey on the oval. Once the carols started though, they came back over to listen. Xav was a crack-up, somehow his funky dancing skills don't really suit Christmas carols - but he boogied the night away, loving the attention that he was collecting from his random fans. He does this crazy little leg flick and hand jiggle dance, and when I asked him what he was doing he answered "My drum dance". It did look a lot like a rock drummer on speed, now that he mentioned it.

The kids after a while, plucked up the courage, and shimmied there way to right up the front - where they sat diligently for the rest of the concert.

We headed home at about 8pm, got the kids in their pj's and tucked into bed.

I layed with Grace and we looked over her birth photos, she then asked me to tell her again the story of when she was born.

I love telling her this story, it's still so deeply etched into my memories and without doubt, one of my most wonderful moments. Grace knows the story so well, and sometimes tells me her side of what happened. She says that she was inside my tummy and was pushing me with her arms and legs, trying to get out and be born. I really wish that I had her birth videoed, so she could see how magical that time was for all of us. But I don't, so I'll just have to keep reminding her.

Of course, I had to take my photo from the time of birth. So this is my beautiful Grace at 10.08pm on the 27th November 2009:

I just can't believe that it has been 4 years since I was flung into this sometimes chaotic but always amazing world of parenthood.

~~Happy Birthday my beautiful Daughter~~

Grace's 4th birthday party

I have dreamt for a long time how I would organise the perfect fairy garden party for my very own daughter. I've kept a list of things over the last few years and finally I've been able to use all these ideas. I contemplated doing it last year for her 3rd birthday, but thought that she still might have been a little young to really get it and appreciate the thoughts behind it.

This year was perfect timing though. We've spent the last few weeks getting the area ready, fine tuning the food lists and organising games. She is just as excited as me, and has loved the whole process of transforming a patch of dirt into her own special sanctuary.

The fairy garden had to be built up with rich, organic soil as our old soil has a lot of clay. To avoid Duane accidentally whipper snippering off flowering plants, we edged it with some foot high bamboo. I cut down an arch, so it's only just over 1 metre tall, to put in the middle. Then Grace & I picked out a few plants to start the garden. We chose some long-living daisies, lavender and some ground covering gardenia.

Grace woke this morning and came bounding out of her room, asking excitedly if it was time for her to finally be able to get into her party outfit (5.30am, mind you!) She was beside her self with the anticipation of a combination of wearing her new shoes, twirling in the pettiskirt, eating all the yummy party food and also having all her little friends coming over to celebrate.

I gave her the beautiful birthday crown that I had made, and she wore it for most of the morning. It's something special that she'll only be able to wear on the week of her birthday, once it's over, it'll be packed away for the next year.

We bustled around putting all the finished touches on the food, cleaning up the mess and setting up the outside area - ready for the 16 under 4's to descend.

Wendy and I had been busy baking lots of yummy party food. I wanted everything to be tiny-mouth size, just big enough for little mouths to devour in one bite. There were egg & bacon pies, sausage rolls, star and heart shaped sandwiches, crackers and dip, caramel slice and yummy apple slice.

Also on the menu were tiny babycinno's:

Dainty little hats:

Butterfly and star fairy bread:

Mini scones with jam and cream:

A childhood favourite - Honey Joys:



White chocolate rocky road:

And, of course the cake:







I love, love, love making a very special cake each year for the kids. Normally they help choose and make it with me, but this year I decided to do it all in secrecy, so even Grace was surprised when it was time to bring it out at the party. She loved it, telling me it was perfect and so pretty. It was a fairly easy cake to make, except now as I look back at photos I realise how crappily I did the icing. However, as I was icing in the late hours of the night due to a mixture malfunction - it doesn't look too bad.

Note to self - Weight watchers margarine cannot be whipped to make butter cream icing. Seems all the disgusting chemicals in it makes it all separate once icing mixture is added. Thank heavens for late night supermarkets and willing & compliant husbands.

I kept the party games fairly simple and only involved those that would follow instructions.

We had pass the parcel:


A marshmallow spoon race:





Which the birthday girl won, no it wasn't rigged.


There was also a fairy hunt, which led the children all around the front yard and finally to some glitter. The last fairy asked them to each take a turn walking around the fairy garden, and to sprinkle some glitter as they went. This was a huge hit with the kids, each lining back up again and again to sprinkle more fairy dust.

~~We're going on a fairy hunt~~

~~Each having a turn at sprinkling the fairy dust~~

I'd been hoping to make up little pots with seeds as party favours, but time got the better of me and I succumbed to lollies. I did jazz them up a little, putting them inside these cute little metal pots and making quick dolly peg fairies to go on the side.

Grace received so many beautiful presents for her garden. She was absolutely spoilt, and now her gorgeous garden is overflowing with beautiful flowers, statues, butterfly's, gnomes, fairies and even a metal chicken! Grace & I are going to plant everything in tomorrow, and then fill in any gaps with other plants. Already she is asking to visit her garden first thing in the morning and throughout the day - it really is her special place now.

She was also spoilt with a few non-garden presents. A cute rainbow rash vest, a perfectly suited Grace book called Fancy Nancy, some lovely jewellery, a mosquito net for her bed, some butterfly's that have been hung on her wall and 12 hanging fairies that have been given a home along her curtain rod. She was spoilt rotten.

~~Beautiful lisianthus plant from Jen & the kids~~

~~One of the many stepping stones from Grandma & Poppy~~

~~One of the beautiful glitter fairies that have moved into the garden~~




~~The fairy garden with all the lovely presents~~

As grace had farewelled the last guest and the front door was closed, she turned to me and said, "That was a WONDERFUL party, thanks Mum"

And all the stress of organising her party was washed away, as I looked into the eyes of a very grateful and appreciative little girl. It was all worth it for that moment.

She then grabbed the lego bucket, shoved a cushion into it and promptly fell asleep, absolutely exhausted and yet content.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY BEAUTIFUL GRACE