I will blog about the awards, but Lee is after the computer, so I'm going to quickly throw down some of my quickest impressions.
I was thoroughly drugged by the time we boarded the plane in Perth. My lovely doctor understood my phobia and gave me knock out drugs. This meant I slept for most of the four and a half hours. I did awake for the turbulence, but settled again quickly.
We arrived at 6am and I don't remember much at all. Kate Eltham and Rob Hoge took us back to their place. I made polite conversation for about 2 minutes then took myself off to bed. I don't actually remember leaving the loungeroom.
I don't remember Lee coming with me but he must have because I woke up next to him at about 10am. We went exploring and I bought HEAPS (I'll post about it later).
We arrived back about 6ish with 2 bottles of wine. Kate was there. Lots of other people turned up. Kate cooks a fabbo lasagne.
I flirted with Sean Williams. He's lovely. He's gorgeous. I love him.
There was the news I'd been nominated in 2 (TWO!) Ditmar categories.
I started to feel unwell, but put it down to still being drugged.
I went to bed. I don't remember Lee coming with me but he must have because I woke up next to him at about 7am.
I woke up on Saturday and realised I was SICK! Really sick. I am allergic to Brisbane. My slight sniffles from the night before had turned into a raging sinus infection.
By Saturday night I was totally ill, but got dressed into my super-sexy dress and stepped out with my beloved.
The awards:
Did I mention how ill I was? "Please let me win" I prayed. "If I win I can go home to die and no-one will think anything of it."
I didn't win.
Bugger. I had to stay where I was and be all cheery or else I was going to appear as the world's worst loser.
Lee won! Yay! At least half my smile was real. I am so proud of Lee and was happy he won.
Garth Nix told me he'd read my blog.
But I was still sick and not getting any better. By 9:30 I'd decided my smile had done the trick and we could head home.
Some lovely friends of Rob and Kate's could see how sick I was and offered a lift home.
I went to bed. I don't remember Lee coming with me but he must have because I woke up next to him at about 6am.
There was a bar-be-que, there were people, there was food. There were congratulations and commisserations all round. The name Ben Peek came up. I shrugged it off. I don't know the guy. I don't care. Memory has garnered me 7 nominations. Not bad for such an terrible story.
I went to bed. I do remember Lee coming with me because we chatted for hours about our weekend and confessed that we missed our kids and couldn't wait to get home to them.
By the next morning the Claratyne had kicked in and I could breathe again. My head was still pounding, but that's why God invented Panadol. Between all the drugs I mustered the strength to do another walking tour of Brisbane. We lunched at Toscani's, usually our fave Brissie place. This time we were rather disappointed. Then we drugged me up again and got on the plane to Perth.
And now we're home. Yes, I'm still drugged, but no longer sick.
Fave people this weekend were:
Rob H
Kate
Robert D (he's so funny)
Sean
Rjurik. I fell big time for Rjurik. He is so sweet. And cute. And talented. All that, and he plays the piano too.
Ben Payne
Karen Miller
Trevor Stafford
Chris Lawson.
I met a lot of sweet and lovely people and it was nice to be surrounded by such good will.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Friday, February 17, 2006
My memory of Memory
Well, it's been a year (or there abouts) since The Memory of Breathing was published in ASIM 17. Now, if you believe one source, you'd agree that I should be ashamed of producing such rubbish.
But I'm not.
Memory has been very kind to me.
I'm a new author. Prior to Memory, I only had one publishing credit to my name. I'm sure that if you asked anyone what that story was, only about 4 people would be able to tell you, and two of them published it for me. Memory entered the public consciousness and there it has stayed.
TMOB was written as a coping mechanism. I'd just lost three of my children in a terrible custody dispute and I couldn't face a life lived without them. I had two choices. Put my head in the oven, or work out my grief through the process of writing. Our oven turned out to be an electric one, so I turned to my laptop instead.
Memory is raw grief. It is about having someone else make the big decisions regarding the life of your child. It's about standing by and watching a third party take them over and tell you they can't be with you anymore. It's about doing the best to hold on to the people you love, and losing.
Memory was written at a time when my belief in myself as a mother had hit an all time low. I'm not going to explain why I lost my children. It no longer matters. What matters is that, because of Memory, I survived the ordeal.
A lot has happened since I wrote Memory. I recovered my self-esteem enough to decide to have another baby. I recovered my self-esteem enough to decide to adopt Lee's child (I can start proceedings in November). I recovered my self-esteem enough to fight my ex-husband for Aiden's return AND I won! I recovered my self-esteem enough not to bother retaliating to the recent bad review (which I saw only an hour after I'd been called a bad mother by my daughter). I still suffer from terrible depression and panic attacks, but I no longer feel that I want to die.
I'm glad I wrote Memory. Good press or bad, it's still being talked about one year after publication. It has been nominated for multiple awards and has received excellent reviews. Rich Horton has mentioned it on his 'favourite stories' list. Twice! He also put it on his recommended reading list when it appeared.
Yes, Memory has been wonderful for me.
I just hope the next story I write does even better.
While we're on the subject, Borderlands Issue 6 is out and Lee and I are in it. My story "The Hanging Tree" was actually written and submitted to Borderlands before I'd even thought of writing TMOB, so don't even think of making comparisons :)
But I'm not.
Memory has been very kind to me.
I'm a new author. Prior to Memory, I only had one publishing credit to my name. I'm sure that if you asked anyone what that story was, only about 4 people would be able to tell you, and two of them published it for me. Memory entered the public consciousness and there it has stayed.
TMOB was written as a coping mechanism. I'd just lost three of my children in a terrible custody dispute and I couldn't face a life lived without them. I had two choices. Put my head in the oven, or work out my grief through the process of writing. Our oven turned out to be an electric one, so I turned to my laptop instead.
Memory is raw grief. It is about having someone else make the big decisions regarding the life of your child. It's about standing by and watching a third party take them over and tell you they can't be with you anymore. It's about doing the best to hold on to the people you love, and losing.
Memory was written at a time when my belief in myself as a mother had hit an all time low. I'm not going to explain why I lost my children. It no longer matters. What matters is that, because of Memory, I survived the ordeal.
A lot has happened since I wrote Memory. I recovered my self-esteem enough to decide to have another baby. I recovered my self-esteem enough to decide to adopt Lee's child (I can start proceedings in November). I recovered my self-esteem enough to fight my ex-husband for Aiden's return AND I won! I recovered my self-esteem enough not to bother retaliating to the recent bad review (which I saw only an hour after I'd been called a bad mother by my daughter). I still suffer from terrible depression and panic attacks, but I no longer feel that I want to die.
I'm glad I wrote Memory. Good press or bad, it's still being talked about one year after publication. It has been nominated for multiple awards and has received excellent reviews. Rich Horton has mentioned it on his 'favourite stories' list. Twice! He also put it on his recommended reading list when it appeared.
Yes, Memory has been wonderful for me.
I just hope the next story I write does even better.
While we're on the subject, Borderlands Issue 6 is out and Lee and I are in it. My story "The Hanging Tree" was actually written and submitted to Borderlands before I'd even thought of writing TMOB, so don't even think of making comparisons :)
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Something Positive
I have to pull something good from this day. Came home this afternoon to find this waiting on my desktop, courtesy of Rich Horton's annual review of ASIM:
There were three particularly strong novelettes this year. Lyn Triffit's "The Memory of Breathing" may be the best, about executed criminals who have been reanimated to provide labor as restitution.
This story has done such good business for me. It still amazes me just how popular it's been.
The whole review is here, by the way.
There were three particularly strong novelettes this year. Lyn Triffit's "The Memory of Breathing" may be the best, about executed criminals who have been reanimated to provide labor as restitution.
This story has done such good business for me. It still amazes me just how popular it's been.
The whole review is here, by the way.
Look at me, mummy
About three days before Christmas, Connor fell over and hit his head on the dishwasher door. I applied a bandaid and hugs and kisses and after a few minutes, he toddled off, secure in the knowledge there was still mischief to be found. I, however, was a mess. What if it had been worse? The possibilities of what could have happened ran through my mind. A couple of days later the bandaid came off and the incident was forgotten.
Yesterday I took him to the eye specialist to see what he thought of Connor's 'cross eyes'. Sometimes it's quite obvious, other times you can barely notice it, but lately it's been more of the former than the latter. There was some concern over his ability to look directly at an object. This meant that he no longer relied on both eyes and that it may already be too late.
The doctor ran the appropriate tests and gave me the good news. He still uses both eyes and his vision is clear. But it won't remain that way for long. We have to act now in order to make sure he keeps his eyesight. This means an operation. Yes, they want to put a knife into both my baby's eyes. The dishwasher incident is nothing in comparison.
My thanks to Calli for letting me talk through events this afternoon. I know the family is really feeling the strain, but we'll get through this together.
The thing is this. Ever since it became apparent that Connor had a problem (at about 4 months old) I've been asking myself if it's my fault. Did I do something wrong in labour that destroyed his nerves. Did I not push when I should have pushed, did I bear down when I should have panted? The simple answer is "no" he was born this way. But even knowing this, I still feel guilty. He's my beautiful baby and I shouldn't have let this happen to him.
They're going to do what?
Yesterday I took him to the eye specialist to see what he thought of Connor's 'cross eyes'. Sometimes it's quite obvious, other times you can barely notice it, but lately it's been more of the former than the latter. There was some concern over his ability to look directly at an object. This meant that he no longer relied on both eyes and that it may already be too late.
The doctor ran the appropriate tests and gave me the good news. He still uses both eyes and his vision is clear. But it won't remain that way for long. We have to act now in order to make sure he keeps his eyesight. This means an operation. Yes, they want to put a knife into both my baby's eyes. The dishwasher incident is nothing in comparison.
My thanks to Calli for letting me talk through events this afternoon. I know the family is really feeling the strain, but we'll get through this together.
The thing is this. Ever since it became apparent that Connor had a problem (at about 4 months old) I've been asking myself if it's my fault. Did I do something wrong in labour that destroyed his nerves. Did I not push when I should have pushed, did I bear down when I should have panted? The simple answer is "no" he was born this way. But even knowing this, I still feel guilty. He's my beautiful baby and I shouldn't have let this happen to him.
They're going to do what?
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Here comes another one just like the other one
Last Things of 2005 meme
cribbed from cassiphone
Last Book Read: Spotted Lily by Anna Tambour. This is also my book of the year.
Last Live Music Show Seen: The closest I could come to this was when we were all sitting around after Fandomedia singing popular songs set to a Rammstein theme. John Robertson, Lee, Chuckie and myself were particularly biosterous that night
Last CD Purchased: I'm a 21st Century girl. I have emule. If I was going to purchase a CD, it would be Robbie Williams. The man is HOT!
Last Thing Cooked: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes and Eggs to make a Potato Salads for Perky's New Year's Eve Party. It was bloody good.
Last New Thing Eaten: Homemade Baileys and Fruit icecream. Made by my sister in law.
Last Thing Bought: Clothes. A new skirt (gyspy style, black, tiered, with a coin chain running around the waist) and three new tops (two sheer cos I wear sexy underwear and one plain but classy to go with jeans)
Last Gift Received: An esky from Lee's former mother in law.
Last Piece of Clothing Bought or Received as a Gift: See two above. I felt so good about these purchases (bought yesterday afternoon) that I went home and told Lee we were going to Perky's after all.
Last Embarrassing Experience: Having a panic attack after assisting Chuckie on his alien panel.
Last Totally New Experience: Cooking turkey for Christmas lunch. It was dry, but the stuffing rocked.
Last Foreign Country Visited, if any: Nil
Last New Bird Seen (feel free to substitute enthusiasm of your own if not a birder): birds are nature. I don't do nature. My own enthusiasms runs to my hair and buying handbags. Last new hair colour bought: Blueberry Hill (it borders on purple. I can't wait to apply it). Last hanbag bought: Lee bought me a Nightmare Before Christmas bag for - wait for it - Christmas. It carries my new art supplies.
Last Big Achievement: Part of me says "the Aurealis Award nomination" but that's not it. Getting my ex to finally agree that Aiden can come and live with me wins, hands down.
cribbed from cassiphone
Last Book Read: Spotted Lily by Anna Tambour. This is also my book of the year.
Last Live Music Show Seen: The closest I could come to this was when we were all sitting around after Fandomedia singing popular songs set to a Rammstein theme. John Robertson, Lee, Chuckie and myself were particularly biosterous that night
Last CD Purchased: I'm a 21st Century girl. I have emule. If I was going to purchase a CD, it would be Robbie Williams. The man is HOT!
Last Thing Cooked: Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes and Eggs to make a Potato Salads for Perky's New Year's Eve Party. It was bloody good.
Last New Thing Eaten: Homemade Baileys and Fruit icecream. Made by my sister in law.
Last Thing Bought: Clothes. A new skirt (gyspy style, black, tiered, with a coin chain running around the waist) and three new tops (two sheer cos I wear sexy underwear and one plain but classy to go with jeans)
Last Gift Received: An esky from Lee's former mother in law.
Last Piece of Clothing Bought or Received as a Gift: See two above. I felt so good about these purchases (bought yesterday afternoon) that I went home and told Lee we were going to Perky's after all.
Last Embarrassing Experience: Having a panic attack after assisting Chuckie on his alien panel.
Last Totally New Experience: Cooking turkey for Christmas lunch. It was dry, but the stuffing rocked.
Last Foreign Country Visited, if any: Nil
Last New Bird Seen (feel free to substitute enthusiasm of your own if not a birder): birds are nature. I don't do nature. My own enthusiasms runs to my hair and buying handbags. Last new hair colour bought: Blueberry Hill (it borders on purple. I can't wait to apply it). Last hanbag bought: Lee bought me a Nightmare Before Christmas bag for - wait for it - Christmas. It carries my new art supplies.
Last Big Achievement: Part of me says "the Aurealis Award nomination" but that's not it. Getting my ex to finally agree that Aiden can come and live with me wins, hands down.
Friday, December 30, 2005
End of the Year Reminescing
I did it last year.
Here it is again.
1. What did you do in 2005 that you'd never done before?
Told my ex-husband that the breakdown of our marriage wasn't his fault.
2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I can't remember what my resolutions were. Yes, we will be making more tomorrow.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth? Callisto Shampoo and Cheshire had a baby boy, Vincent. I'm very proud of Calli for her mothering skills. She's wonderful at it.
4. Did anyone close to you die? No. But Erin's horse died. This was Sharon's horse initially. This has brought up the subject of Sharon's death a little earlier than expected. I'm not entirely happy with the way it's being handled.
5. What countries did you visit? None. Again.
6. What would you like to have in 2006 that you lacked in 2005? An Aurealis Award for my mantlepiece.
7. What dates from 2005 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? 26th March, our wedding date. 27th March, the day I received my Ditmar Award for Best Professional Achievement. 28th March, the day I heard someone call me "Mrs Battersby" for the first time. I was in hospital with a severe burn and a nurse called for me. I smiled, despite the pain. 26th November, Connor's first birthday.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? Marrying Lee was the biggest (and the best) but I have to say that winning the Ditmar is a photo finish second.
9. What was your biggest failure? Not regaining my size 8-10 figure. I spend a lot of time hating myself for this.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury? There was a few days worry when my doctor found a lump in my left breast. I didn't tell many people about it, but I was terrified. Fortunately it went away by itself.
Oh, and I burnt my hand while making Connor's bottle. Lee took me to hospital. The burn was severe yet there is no scar at all.
11. What was the best thing you bought? A halter-neck dress that I wore to Grant and Sonia's wedding. It looked fabulous and I felt sexy for the first time in years.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Lee is my hero. Every second week I drop my children off with their father. Then I fall apart. Lee supplies me with hugs, kisses, and a girly dvd. I love him so much for his compassion, his love and his understanding.
Aiden is another one. It wasn't easy to tell his dad that he wanted to move in with me, but he stuck to his guns and insisted. He's moving in with me on a shared care basis in February and it looks to become permanent in second term. I'm so proud of him.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? I don't want to talk about it. It makes me too unhappy.
14. Where did most of your money go? Queensland, the wedding, the new house. The children.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about? The wedding. Winning the Ditmar. Being asked to be a Guest of Honour at next year's Fandomedia. Being nominated for an Aurealis.
16. What song will always remind you of 2005? Chicago by Sufjan Stevens. Tripping by Robbie Williams. The Tide is Turning by Roger Waters.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:i. happier or sadder? ii. thinner or fatter? iii. richer or poorer? Nothing really changed. It fluctuated wildly throughout the year, but ended up pretty much as it started.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of? Exercise. I hate my body.
19. What do you wish you'd done less of? Worrying about the state of my body. I realise I have hangups. It's my plan to focus on something else next year. Like my hair.
20. How will you be spending Christmas? Spent it with Lee's family and former family. My mum, brother and 'dad' were nowhere to be seen.
21. Who did you meet for the first time? Chuckie! I love him. He's wonderful, funny, talented. Jen and Kellene. Jen and Chuckie are my beer buddies. Kellene taught me that there's no use by date on grief.
22. Did you fall in love in 2005? Over and over again with the same man. I fall in love with Lee on a daily basis. When he plays with the children, when he pours me a glass of wine, when he holds me while I go to sleep.
23. What was your favourite TV program? EastEnders.
24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year? I've only hated one person in my life. I hate her now. I hated her this time last year. It's sad because at one time she was like a mother to me.
25. What was the best book you read? Easy easy easy. "Spotted Lily" by Anna Tambour. This book allowed me to appreciate my body and how it looks for about a week. I finished the book three weeks ago and I've resumed my anti-body stance. Apart from my breasts. I do have great breasts. And they're lump free.
26. What was your greatest musical discovery? Sufjan Stevens. His song "Chicago" is a Triffbatt favourite. I consider it our family song. Ask Erin her favourite song. It's "Cargo". The answer never changes. She asks to hear it every time we get in the car.
I also rediscovered Robbie Williams. His song Tripping taps into my feelings of parental inadequacy.
27. What was your favorite film of this year? Probably Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
28. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 36. There were presents, I remember that. I don't remember where we went.
29. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? Having my Triffitt children living with me. Seeing Lee's collection in print.
30. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2005? Jeans and t-shirt. I'm rectifying that by shopping for a couple of skirts tomorrow. I feel such a frump at the moment. I want to rediscover a sense of style in 2006.
31. What kept you sane? Erin.
32. What political issue stirred you the most? Politics is boring. There was no election, so no show bags.
33. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2005. My family begins and ends with Lee and the children.
34. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
I know its gone and there's going to be violence
I've taken as much as I'm willing to take
Why do you say we should suffer in silence?
My heart is broken there's nothing to break
Robbie Williams - Tripping. I relate to this song every time I drop my kids off with their father for another fortnight. My heart violently breaks each and every time.
Here it is again.
1. What did you do in 2005 that you'd never done before?
Told my ex-husband that the breakdown of our marriage wasn't his fault.
2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I can't remember what my resolutions were. Yes, we will be making more tomorrow.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth? Callisto Shampoo and Cheshire had a baby boy, Vincent. I'm very proud of Calli for her mothering skills. She's wonderful at it.
4. Did anyone close to you die? No. But Erin's horse died. This was Sharon's horse initially. This has brought up the subject of Sharon's death a little earlier than expected. I'm not entirely happy with the way it's being handled.
5. What countries did you visit? None. Again.
6. What would you like to have in 2006 that you lacked in 2005? An Aurealis Award for my mantlepiece.
7. What dates from 2005 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? 26th March, our wedding date. 27th March, the day I received my Ditmar Award for Best Professional Achievement. 28th March, the day I heard someone call me "Mrs Battersby" for the first time. I was in hospital with a severe burn and a nurse called for me. I smiled, despite the pain. 26th November, Connor's first birthday.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? Marrying Lee was the biggest (and the best) but I have to say that winning the Ditmar is a photo finish second.
9. What was your biggest failure? Not regaining my size 8-10 figure. I spend a lot of time hating myself for this.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury? There was a few days worry when my doctor found a lump in my left breast. I didn't tell many people about it, but I was terrified. Fortunately it went away by itself.
Oh, and I burnt my hand while making Connor's bottle. Lee took me to hospital. The burn was severe yet there is no scar at all.
11. What was the best thing you bought? A halter-neck dress that I wore to Grant and Sonia's wedding. It looked fabulous and I felt sexy for the first time in years.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Lee is my hero. Every second week I drop my children off with their father. Then I fall apart. Lee supplies me with hugs, kisses, and a girly dvd. I love him so much for his compassion, his love and his understanding.
Aiden is another one. It wasn't easy to tell his dad that he wanted to move in with me, but he stuck to his guns and insisted. He's moving in with me on a shared care basis in February and it looks to become permanent in second term. I'm so proud of him.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? I don't want to talk about it. It makes me too unhappy.
14. Where did most of your money go? Queensland, the wedding, the new house. The children.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about? The wedding. Winning the Ditmar. Being asked to be a Guest of Honour at next year's Fandomedia. Being nominated for an Aurealis.
16. What song will always remind you of 2005? Chicago by Sufjan Stevens. Tripping by Robbie Williams. The Tide is Turning by Roger Waters.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:i. happier or sadder? ii. thinner or fatter? iii. richer or poorer? Nothing really changed. It fluctuated wildly throughout the year, but ended up pretty much as it started.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of? Exercise. I hate my body.
19. What do you wish you'd done less of? Worrying about the state of my body. I realise I have hangups. It's my plan to focus on something else next year. Like my hair.
20. How will you be spending Christmas? Spent it with Lee's family and former family. My mum, brother and 'dad' were nowhere to be seen.
21. Who did you meet for the first time? Chuckie! I love him. He's wonderful, funny, talented. Jen and Kellene. Jen and Chuckie are my beer buddies. Kellene taught me that there's no use by date on grief.
22. Did you fall in love in 2005? Over and over again with the same man. I fall in love with Lee on a daily basis. When he plays with the children, when he pours me a glass of wine, when he holds me while I go to sleep.
23. What was your favourite TV program? EastEnders.
24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year? I've only hated one person in my life. I hate her now. I hated her this time last year. It's sad because at one time she was like a mother to me.
25. What was the best book you read? Easy easy easy. "Spotted Lily" by Anna Tambour. This book allowed me to appreciate my body and how it looks for about a week. I finished the book three weeks ago and I've resumed my anti-body stance. Apart from my breasts. I do have great breasts. And they're lump free.
26. What was your greatest musical discovery? Sufjan Stevens. His song "Chicago" is a Triffbatt favourite. I consider it our family song. Ask Erin her favourite song. It's "Cargo". The answer never changes. She asks to hear it every time we get in the car.
I also rediscovered Robbie Williams. His song Tripping taps into my feelings of parental inadequacy.
27. What was your favorite film of this year? Probably Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
28. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 36. There were presents, I remember that. I don't remember where we went.
29. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? Having my Triffitt children living with me. Seeing Lee's collection in print.
30. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2005? Jeans and t-shirt. I'm rectifying that by shopping for a couple of skirts tomorrow. I feel such a frump at the moment. I want to rediscover a sense of style in 2006.
31. What kept you sane? Erin.
32. What political issue stirred you the most? Politics is boring. There was no election, so no show bags.
33. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2005. My family begins and ends with Lee and the children.
34. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
I know its gone and there's going to be violence
I've taken as much as I'm willing to take
Why do you say we should suffer in silence?
My heart is broken there's nothing to break
Robbie Williams - Tripping. I relate to this song every time I drop my kids off with their father for another fortnight. My heart violently breaks each and every time.
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Merry War, Christmas Is Over
I am well and truly glad it's all over which has me wondering, at what point do people get all excited about Christmas again?
Is it when the turkey and ham has run out (I have about 4 kilos of each left), or when the mess is cleared up, or when the books are read, the toys are assembled/broken or the playstation gamesdvds/cds scratched? Or perhaps it's when your birthday is over and there are no new presents on the immediate horizon? I was born on the 24th June, so dates between birthday and xmas stand fairly evenly apart, a situation I didn't appreciate until this year.
Here's my list of naughty and nice things about christmas.
Naughty.
The mess. Oh my god the mess! I chose to go down the paper and plastic route this year, with a ban on anything that required me to wash after the big day. Yet, the house still looks like a bomb site. Hopefully all it will take is a couple of large bin bags to see it fixed. And maybe the igniting of a hobo bin or two. Somehow I doubt it.
The music. It was a constant fight between Casi and Lee as to what was going to play on the computer. Hip hop/r&b clashed mightily with some Doo Dah Bonzer band over the right to pollute our ears.
The mayhem. 7 lollie-fuelled kids running through the house and backyard, carrying water pistols, skate boards and hairbrushes. 1 loud, brash lollie-fuelled step-father alternately giving chase and being chased.
The food. Didn't enjoy the turkey much at all, although the macadamia and cranberry seasoning was nice. The vegetables were undercooked and nobody could work out why I'd made roast veges anyway.
Nice
The presents. I received the Little Britain dvd, and a canvas, brushes and paints from the kids. It's been years since I painted and Lee and the chilluns decided it was time I got back to it. With recurring head aches, sore throats and lower rib pains, it's obvious I need to find some stress relief and this is just the thing. I'm also thinking about taking up belly dancing, but that's for another blog. My beloved also bought me a toe ring and a beautiful black dress. I'm looking for an excuse to wear it. It's quite gaelic in it's design, yet totally not. I love it. And I got a Nightmare Before Christmas bag which I've put my art supplies in. (I'm a bag lady. I admit it. Carrie Bradshaw has her shoes. Lyn Battersby has her bags) And. And. And. I got a book of pictures by Frida Kahlo, my favourite painter in the world. It also features works by Diego Rivera. That and the dress are my two favourite presents. I can't split between them.
The traditions. Each year the Triffbatts make something to put on the Christmas tree. Last year it was paper baubles which we decorated. This year we made bonbons and decorated those. For Connor, we took a printed off a photo of him at his first birthday, framed it with his accomplishments, wrapped it around half a toilet roll, made it look like a bonbon and tied it to the tree.
I love this tradition. It's like a diary of our family.
Lee and I have started our own tradition this year. We give each other a second hand book and inscribe a message in it. Lee bought me I, Claudius and I bought him Great Tales of Fantasy and Science Fiction featuring JG Ballard, Lucius Shepard, Robert Bloch, Stephen King, Harlan Ellison and Larry Niven, to name just a few.
The faces. I love the joy that appears when people receive the perfect gift. That priceless moment when they realise what it is they hold in their hands. Casi glowed when we gave her a Playboy Lava Lamp and Lee's face lit up when I gave him a record player for his computer. The boys loved their skateboards. Aiden was excited by his Antquarium. Erin was overjoyed with everything we gave her and Connor just adored the paper it all came in. And I can well imagine what I looked like when presented with Frida Kahlo.
I'm in it for the faces. And the prezzies.
Some of the food.
My ham, which I glazed and baked all on my own, was to die for. I loved it. Funnily enough, Casi loved the turkey and didn't think much of the ham.
Amanda's alcoholic ice-cream cake was delicious. She left a big wodge of it here, which is going to make dieting that little bit more difficult.
Lynn (Sharon's mum) brought a delicious apricot chicken and fried rice that disappeared in no time. Next time I do Christmas, I'm going skipping the 'traditional' meats and going with more casserole-type stuff.
The atmosphere. None of my family was here. They all had stuff to do with their own families and each other. But Lee's family came as did Sharon's. It was a happy day. Connor's feet barely touched the ground as he was constantly held by both nannas. It would have been nice to have my brother or my 'dad' or my mum take an interest, but one thing I've realised this year is, family is Lee and the kids. As long as I have them, I'm okay.
When it's all said and done, I did enjoy it. Lee's family are lovely, the food and drink were plentiful and we all gave thoughtful and loving presents.
Yeah, I can't wait for next year.
Is it when the turkey and ham has run out (I have about 4 kilos of each left), or when the mess is cleared up, or when the books are read, the toys are assembled/broken or the playstation gamesdvds/cds scratched? Or perhaps it's when your birthday is over and there are no new presents on the immediate horizon? I was born on the 24th June, so dates between birthday and xmas stand fairly evenly apart, a situation I didn't appreciate until this year.
Here's my list of naughty and nice things about christmas.
Naughty.
The mess. Oh my god the mess! I chose to go down the paper and plastic route this year, with a ban on anything that required me to wash after the big day. Yet, the house still looks like a bomb site. Hopefully all it will take is a couple of large bin bags to see it fixed. And maybe the igniting of a hobo bin or two. Somehow I doubt it.
The music. It was a constant fight between Casi and Lee as to what was going to play on the computer. Hip hop/r&b clashed mightily with some Doo Dah Bonzer band over the right to pollute our ears.
The mayhem. 7 lollie-fuelled kids running through the house and backyard, carrying water pistols, skate boards and hairbrushes. 1 loud, brash lollie-fuelled step-father alternately giving chase and being chased.
The food. Didn't enjoy the turkey much at all, although the macadamia and cranberry seasoning was nice. The vegetables were undercooked and nobody could work out why I'd made roast veges anyway.
Nice
The presents. I received the Little Britain dvd, and a canvas, brushes and paints from the kids. It's been years since I painted and Lee and the chilluns decided it was time I got back to it. With recurring head aches, sore throats and lower rib pains, it's obvious I need to find some stress relief and this is just the thing. I'm also thinking about taking up belly dancing, but that's for another blog. My beloved also bought me a toe ring and a beautiful black dress. I'm looking for an excuse to wear it. It's quite gaelic in it's design, yet totally not. I love it. And I got a Nightmare Before Christmas bag which I've put my art supplies in. (I'm a bag lady. I admit it. Carrie Bradshaw has her shoes. Lyn Battersby has her bags) And. And. And. I got a book of pictures by Frida Kahlo, my favourite painter in the world. It also features works by Diego Rivera. That and the dress are my two favourite presents. I can't split between them.
The traditions. Each year the Triffbatts make something to put on the Christmas tree. Last year it was paper baubles which we decorated. This year we made bonbons and decorated those. For Connor, we took a printed off a photo of him at his first birthday, framed it with his accomplishments, wrapped it around half a toilet roll, made it look like a bonbon and tied it to the tree.
I love this tradition. It's like a diary of our family.
Lee and I have started our own tradition this year. We give each other a second hand book and inscribe a message in it. Lee bought me I, Claudius and I bought him Great Tales of Fantasy and Science Fiction featuring JG Ballard, Lucius Shepard, Robert Bloch, Stephen King, Harlan Ellison and Larry Niven, to name just a few.
The faces. I love the joy that appears when people receive the perfect gift. That priceless moment when they realise what it is they hold in their hands. Casi glowed when we gave her a Playboy Lava Lamp and Lee's face lit up when I gave him a record player for his computer. The boys loved their skateboards. Aiden was excited by his Antquarium. Erin was overjoyed with everything we gave her and Connor just adored the paper it all came in. And I can well imagine what I looked like when presented with Frida Kahlo.
I'm in it for the faces. And the prezzies.
Some of the food.
My ham, which I glazed and baked all on my own, was to die for. I loved it. Funnily enough, Casi loved the turkey and didn't think much of the ham.
Amanda's alcoholic ice-cream cake was delicious. She left a big wodge of it here, which is going to make dieting that little bit more difficult.
Lynn (Sharon's mum) brought a delicious apricot chicken and fried rice that disappeared in no time. Next time I do Christmas, I'm going skipping the 'traditional' meats and going with more casserole-type stuff.
The atmosphere. None of my family was here. They all had stuff to do with their own families and each other. But Lee's family came as did Sharon's. It was a happy day. Connor's feet barely touched the ground as he was constantly held by both nannas. It would have been nice to have my brother or my 'dad' or my mum take an interest, but one thing I've realised this year is, family is Lee and the kids. As long as I have them, I'm okay.
When it's all said and done, I did enjoy it. Lee's family are lovely, the food and drink were plentiful and we all gave thoughtful and loving presents.
Yeah, I can't wait for next year.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
What a wake up call
I am sick. I took the opportunity for a bit of a lie in while Battboy got the kid's ready. I was drifting into a nice, soft, Mersyndol-induced snooze when Lee burst into the room and leant over me.
"The nominations are in."
Instant alertness, all signs of sleepiness gone.
"And?"
Please please please please please, let me be in. Let this year end on a high.
"We're both in. 'Memory' in the SF category and 'Pater Familias' in horror."
Matching 'his and hers' grins on our faces.
I'm also pleased to notice that 'Macchiato Lane' is up for nomination. I read this story first for Ticonderoga Online and passed it on to the others with a definite 'yes'. I also requested it for issue five, which I edited. While I hope Lee wins his section, I'd feel a certain amount of satisfaction if he lost to 'Macchiato Lane'.
Naturally, I hope to win the SF section, but I did like the story about Mr Woo in Aurealis, so we'll have to see.
Congratulations to everybody who was nominated, but a special mention goes to our good friend K A Bedford. His second novel "Eclipse" has been nominated. His first novel "Orbital Burn" was came to the notice of the judges last year, which shows that this man is doing serious business for Australian SF.
Have a nice day
I will be resume my recuperative snoozing now
PS Are we trekking all the way to Brizzie for the awards. You betcha!
"The nominations are in."
Instant alertness, all signs of sleepiness gone.
"And?"
Please please please please please, let me be in. Let this year end on a high.
"We're both in. 'Memory' in the SF category and 'Pater Familias' in horror."
Matching 'his and hers' grins on our faces.
I'm also pleased to notice that 'Macchiato Lane' is up for nomination. I read this story first for Ticonderoga Online and passed it on to the others with a definite 'yes'. I also requested it for issue five, which I edited. While I hope Lee wins his section, I'd feel a certain amount of satisfaction if he lost to 'Macchiato Lane'.
Naturally, I hope to win the SF section, but I did like the story about Mr Woo in Aurealis, so we'll have to see.
Congratulations to everybody who was nominated, but a special mention goes to our good friend K A Bedford. His second novel "Eclipse" has been nominated. His first novel "Orbital Burn" was came to the notice of the judges last year, which shows that this man is doing serious business for Australian SF.
Have a nice day
I will be resume my recuperative snoozing now
PS Are we trekking all the way to Brizzie for the awards. You betcha!
Monday, November 28, 2005
Not a mate, but don't name your yacht after us either
So we've bought our dream home. Almost. This is what it will take to make it perfect for us.
All the walls painted (it's a 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with study)
Most of the floors uncarpeted and then tiled
The two bathrooms redone (Yes, pretty much from scratch)
So, if your dad works for Tilerama or your mum is sales woman for Bathrooms-R-Us or your best mate's girlfriend's butcher's cousin happens to know a brilliant painter, please let us know. We don't expect mate's rates, but we would like a good job done for a reasonable price. And they need to start on (or just after) January 9, 2006.
Our email address is llbatt@dodo.com.au
All the walls painted (it's a 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with study)
Most of the floors uncarpeted and then tiled
The two bathrooms redone (Yes, pretty much from scratch)
So, if your dad works for Tilerama or your mum is sales woman for Bathrooms-R-Us or your best mate's girlfriend's butcher's cousin happens to know a brilliant painter, please let us know. We don't expect mate's rates, but we would like a good job done for a reasonable price. And they need to start on (or just after) January 9, 2006.
Our email address is llbatt@dodo.com.au
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Tut-tut
Yesterday was Connor's birthday party and it went swimmingly. Calli provided the cake and did a fabulous job of it. Many people came (I was worried that no-one would turn up) and the presents were fantastic. (And noisy, as we discovered at 5:45 this morning :)
Connor, naturally, had no idea what was going on, and tended to sway between being overwhelmed by all the attention and totally ignoring it.
The day was big, with lots of food, lots to drink and lots of conversation. We had a great time and will remember it forever.
And some memories aren't as glowing as others.
Last night I broke the cardinal rules of drinking.
1.Not on an empty stomach. Two pieces of sushi and a small piece of fairy bread do not a meal make.
2. Don't mix your drinks. I had 4 glasses of white wine, then a Becks beer, finishing off with 1/2 a glass of red wine. It finished me off.
Really, looking at it, it wasn't a lot and it was over a long period of time, but the excitement of the day, along with the need to look after my guests and my children while ignoring myself proved too much.
I was drunk and it was messy. I am very very embarrassed this morning. Lee and the children assure me that they're not angry at me. I just hope I didn't do anything too untoward.
My wonderful husband and my beautiful friends Kellene and Jen looked after me really well. I am grateful.
And for the record. Not a hangover in sight.
Lee will undoubtably blog more later and there will be pictures.
Connor, naturally, had no idea what was going on, and tended to sway between being overwhelmed by all the attention and totally ignoring it.
The day was big, with lots of food, lots to drink and lots of conversation. We had a great time and will remember it forever.
And some memories aren't as glowing as others.
Last night I broke the cardinal rules of drinking.
1.Not on an empty stomach. Two pieces of sushi and a small piece of fairy bread do not a meal make.
2. Don't mix your drinks. I had 4 glasses of white wine, then a Becks beer, finishing off with 1/2 a glass of red wine. It finished me off.
Really, looking at it, it wasn't a lot and it was over a long period of time, but the excitement of the day, along with the need to look after my guests and my children while ignoring myself proved too much.
I was drunk and it was messy. I am very very embarrassed this morning. Lee and the children assure me that they're not angry at me. I just hope I didn't do anything too untoward.
My wonderful husband and my beautiful friends Kellene and Jen looked after me really well. I am grateful.
And for the record. Not a hangover in sight.
Lee will undoubtably blog more later and there will be pictures.
2 Proud Parents and their Birthday Boy
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
On posting
As it is a long post and needed cutting, I've decided to LJ about my weekend rather than blog. Go to 3LM. I've kept it Public so anyone can read it.
Sunday, November 20, 2005
So much to tell you
I've just returned home after a brilliant weekend at Fandomedia. I will be blogging soon about my time, but not tonight - I'm too tired.
Items I will be discussing are:
The triumvirate: An unholy trinity featuring Lee, John Robertson and Chuck MacKenzie
Chuck MacKenzie - My love for a pod person
10 things I love about Ju
11 things I love about Lee
Crossing the line - what happens when you share your personal views with an audience
Entree madness - Living on an unrealistic budget during a con
Beer buddies - More about my mate Chuckie
On paedophiles, nazis and the Twin Towers
Why Hal Spacejock is 'better than Red Dwarf"
Alien sex - A third attempt at explaining my new love for the Chuckmeister (which doesn't affect my passion for my beloved at all)
Chocolate and why it was so important this weekend
Matt Ferrar and his part in Oz SF
Lee and his role in keeping me sane when the going got tough
And of course
Fandomedia 2006 and my part in its downfall
Look forward to tomorrow when I give you 99% of the goss (I've been sworn to secrecy on the other 1%)
While we're sort of on the subject, but a smidgeon off course, I made a decision this weekend. I came home last night all ready to work on Feast, You Women, my new short story that I finished earlier this week. I'd pretty much sorted out in my mind what needed to be done, and sat down to think more about it. On doing so, one thing became clear. Lee's absolutely right. It needs to be a novel. Today it retitled itself (to Mother) and as of tomorrow I will be travelling down that dark, dank, lonely road known as novel writing.
Wish me luck.
Love you, Ju. Well done.
Items I will be discussing are:
The triumvirate: An unholy trinity featuring Lee, John Robertson and Chuck MacKenzie
Chuck MacKenzie - My love for a pod person
10 things I love about Ju
11 things I love about Lee
Crossing the line - what happens when you share your personal views with an audience
Entree madness - Living on an unrealistic budget during a con
Beer buddies - More about my mate Chuckie
On paedophiles, nazis and the Twin Towers
Why Hal Spacejock is 'better than Red Dwarf"
Alien sex - A third attempt at explaining my new love for the Chuckmeister (which doesn't affect my passion for my beloved at all)
Chocolate and why it was so important this weekend
Matt Ferrar and his part in Oz SF
Lee and his role in keeping me sane when the going got tough
And of course
Fandomedia 2006 and my part in its downfall
Look forward to tomorrow when I give you 99% of the goss (I've been sworn to secrecy on the other 1%)
While we're sort of on the subject, but a smidgeon off course, I made a decision this weekend. I came home last night all ready to work on Feast, You Women, my new short story that I finished earlier this week. I'd pretty much sorted out in my mind what needed to be done, and sat down to think more about it. On doing so, one thing became clear. Lee's absolutely right. It needs to be a novel. Today it retitled itself (to Mother) and as of tomorrow I will be travelling down that dark, dank, lonely road known as novel writing.
Wish me luck.
Love you, Ju. Well done.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
reminescing
I've just been reading through my old Day of the Triffitt blog. I found it quite interesting in terms of what I've achieved particularly in light of the interview performed by Lee in April.
I love my life.
I love my husband.
I love my life.
I love my husband.
Monday, November 07, 2005
On a roll
I'm very happy with myself at the moment.
Tonight I have written over 1600 words on my latest story leaving it with a total thus far of 4700 words. The story is coming together beautifully and I've just set up the climax. I anticipate having it finished by tomorrow night.
I haven't felt this excited about a story since The Memory of Breathing. I'm very proud of myself for the work I've done on it and the flow it has taken on. It's sad, it's ironic and I've put a lot of myself into it (although I would like to categorically deny being a vampire :))
My main problem: I'm having trouble putting it down. Every night I think of where the story could go next, and every morning I've built on that.
I so don't want to make a novel out of this, so matter what my beloved says :)
Music of the moment: An eclectic mix of New Wave and John Lennon.
Tonight I have written over 1600 words on my latest story leaving it with a total thus far of 4700 words. The story is coming together beautifully and I've just set up the climax. I anticipate having it finished by tomorrow night.
I haven't felt this excited about a story since The Memory of Breathing. I'm very proud of myself for the work I've done on it and the flow it has taken on. It's sad, it's ironic and I've put a lot of myself into it (although I would like to categorically deny being a vampire :))
My main problem: I'm having trouble putting it down. Every night I think of where the story could go next, and every morning I've built on that.
I so don't want to make a novel out of this, so matter what my beloved says :)
Music of the moment: An eclectic mix of New Wave and John Lennon.
Friday, November 04, 2005
Who?
I have no idea who this character is, but I'm sure she's lovely if she's anything like me (there's also a picture but for some reason it won't come up on my blog):
You scored as Marianne Dashwood. Most girls can relate with Marianne on a more personal level than some of Austen's other characters. She represents the emotional longings and struggles that seem to attack and bless us at the same time. Loyal to a fault, passionate for experience and life, and a bit over-emotional, Marianne matures and grows (making her so beloved).
Which Jane Austen Character are You? created with QuizFarm.com |
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Big sigh
I love my husband. It's because of him that I even manage to negotiate my way through each day. If it weren't for Battboy I don't think I'd even bother getting up some days.
Feeling quite low right now. We've got friends coming for dinner, yet everything's going wrong. My recipes aren't performing properly, the house isn't getting any cleaner and the children are both clingy and whiney.
Lee is off, dropping the Triffkids at their father's house. I hate it when they leave, especially when I haven't really had the chance to spend any time with them. I raised these children for 12 years. I did a bloody good job of it too, yet I'm treated than little more than a baby-sitter in their life. This weekend I didn't even get that, as my mum looked after all five kids for the weekend.
I know this post is on a bit of a downer. I try to be upbeat and happy most of the time, but sometimes I fail miserably. I just can't bear it when they go. I hate it too when either Lee or myself drop them off by ourselves, because I haven't got his arms around me to make it better.
No, I have to try and find some happiness.
The wedding was lovely. Sonia looked beautiful and Grant was as cute as ever.
The thing about weddings is, they're a reminder of the good things in your life. I kept looking at my wonderful husband and thinking how lucky I am to have him with me. I fell even more in love with him yesterday. I couldn't imagine life without him.
On another positive note, I had a number of people come up and congratulate me on the success of "The Memory of Breathing". I'm incredibly proud of that story. I only hope I can do as well on the next story. I've got three coming out soon. "The Hanging Tree" appears in the next Borderlands, "Hush" in Shadow Box and "Edges" in issue 9 of Shadowed Realms. I'm working on a vampire piece at the moment that has me really excited. It's just finding the time to deal with it. It's a sensitive story that looks at the pain a woman faces through miscarriage. I miscarried a baby 15 years ago and I never really got over it, so I'm directing all my memories into this story.
Okay, another downer, but I have people arriving in an hour and a house that is demanding attention.
Have a nice week.
Feeling quite low right now. We've got friends coming for dinner, yet everything's going wrong. My recipes aren't performing properly, the house isn't getting any cleaner and the children are both clingy and whiney.
Lee is off, dropping the Triffkids at their father's house. I hate it when they leave, especially when I haven't really had the chance to spend any time with them. I raised these children for 12 years. I did a bloody good job of it too, yet I'm treated than little more than a baby-sitter in their life. This weekend I didn't even get that, as my mum looked after all five kids for the weekend.
I know this post is on a bit of a downer. I try to be upbeat and happy most of the time, but sometimes I fail miserably. I just can't bear it when they go. I hate it too when either Lee or myself drop them off by ourselves, because I haven't got his arms around me to make it better.
No, I have to try and find some happiness.
The wedding was lovely. Sonia looked beautiful and Grant was as cute as ever.
The thing about weddings is, they're a reminder of the good things in your life. I kept looking at my wonderful husband and thinking how lucky I am to have him with me. I fell even more in love with him yesterday. I couldn't imagine life without him.
On another positive note, I had a number of people come up and congratulate me on the success of "The Memory of Breathing". I'm incredibly proud of that story. I only hope I can do as well on the next story. I've got three coming out soon. "The Hanging Tree" appears in the next Borderlands, "Hush" in Shadow Box and "Edges" in issue 9 of Shadowed Realms. I'm working on a vampire piece at the moment that has me really excited. It's just finding the time to deal with it. It's a sensitive story that looks at the pain a woman faces through miscarriage. I miscarried a baby 15 years ago and I never really got over it, so I'm directing all my memories into this story.
Okay, another downer, but I have people arriving in an hour and a house that is demanding attention.
Have a nice week.
Friday, October 28, 2005
New review
It's been a while, but I've finally put up a new review on IMHO.
Read my impression of Sophia McDougalls' Romanitas Here
Read my impression of Sophia McDougalls' Romanitas Here
Monday, October 24, 2005
The best laid plans
I had such big plans for today.
Connor was going to be lovely and play at my feet while I:
Wrote a review
Critiqued a manuscript
Did some yoga (he was going to sleep for that)
Wrote 500 words on my latest short story
And blogged about the meaning of friendships
Unfortunately Connor has done nothing but whinge and whine and has not wanted to leave my hip all day. As for sleeping, that's for the weak.
If I can quote my 11 month old son
Waaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!! (Which is baby talk for, "Bring me another espresso, Mater.")
I've done nothing today but hold the baby and watch Charmed.
Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!! (Which is mummy talk for "I want my life back!)
I can't get anything done today. Even as I type, the short bald one is standing at my side, crying and reaching for the mouse.
Have a lovely day
PS Friends are cool. There, one thing accomplished. Not as long as I'd wanted to make it, but the best I can do with an extra set of hands upon the key board.
Connor was going to be lovely and play at my feet while I:
Wrote a review
Critiqued a manuscript
Did some yoga (he was going to sleep for that)
Wrote 500 words on my latest short story
And blogged about the meaning of friendships
Unfortunately Connor has done nothing but whinge and whine and has not wanted to leave my hip all day. As for sleeping, that's for the weak.
If I can quote my 11 month old son
Waaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!!! (Which is baby talk for, "Bring me another espresso, Mater.")
I've done nothing today but hold the baby and watch Charmed.
Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!! (Which is mummy talk for "I want my life back!)
I can't get anything done today. Even as I type, the short bald one is standing at my side, crying and reaching for the mouse.
Have a lovely day
PS Friends are cool. There, one thing accomplished. Not as long as I'd wanted to make it, but the best I can do with an extra set of hands upon the key board.
Friday, October 21, 2005
Ever had days...
...when you feel so proud you could just curl up into a ball and squeeze yourself to death with the sheer pleasure of it all?
I have a severe sinus infection at the moment. This means an ongoing sore-throat, headache and ear-ache.
Nurofen and Telfast are my friends.
So, as you can imagine, when my daughter's end of year Dance Extravaganza came up yesterday, I was less than enthused.
100+ semi-competent teens jumping around a large stage to the raucous howlings that makes up todays hip-hop and r&b while 200+ assorted parents, grandparents, siblings, neighbours, butchers, bakers and candlestick makers clapped their happy little hearts out for 3 hours was not my idea of a good night in. I'd just had the kids returned to me after a two week hiatus and just wanted to chill with the family before the rush of the weekend.
However, Cassie is at a rather trying age, and I had to show her that I still love her, despite EVERYTHING, so I bought my ticket, popped her in the car and drove the half hour to Midland. We, naturally, arrived 2 hours early because Cass had to dress, gossip, rehearse, gossip, primp, gossip and preen, with a touch of gossip. Apparently a friend of hers had declared herself to being bi-sexual and this was BIG news! (I had a quiet chat in the car with Cass afterwards telling her that all teenagers have uncertain feelings as to their sexuality at this age and that she needs understanding and support, not gossip)
Sidebar:
Cassie is beautiful, witty and wise. She's also hormonal, moody and monstrous. She's having a crisis of faith after 12 years of being raised in the Jehovah's Witness religion and is playing around with Paganism (Yes, Chaosmanor I would like you to chat to her :))
After three years of being judged for leaving said religion, I've decided to adopt a 'live and let live' attitude. As long as it does no harm, then leave it alone. I did, however, want to find out why Cassie wasn't considering returning to the Witnesses as a possible option. I wasn't pushing it as a preference, just probing where her thought processes lie.
"Do you still believe in God?" I ask her.
"I don't know. I think so, but I want to explore all the possibilities. I've never known anything else."
"Nor do 99% of the population. Everyone is raised with their parents ideals, and then make up their own minds later as they experience life. Or not, if they find they just don't care."
"Well, I want to look around now so I can make an informed decision."
Fair enough.
"I'm just a little surprised because you had developed such a personal relationship with God."
A pause of about five seconds and then:
"I used to have a personal relationship with my imaginary friends, Honour and Telly. Eventually I grew out of it."
Pow
Wallop
Bam
She blinded me with logic.
Proud moment number two!
We shall now return to proud moment number one.
So, I've got two hours of nothing to do, so I head down to a local food hall for sushi and a glass of red wine. Yes, I know, preservatives in red wine exacerbates sinus problems and yes, my head ache went up a notch, but I enjoyed it anyway.
7:30 comes and my former father-in-law and I settle into our seats.
The first three numbers come and go and I do the dutiful, clap-clap-clap thing.
Then it's the fourth number and my little girl is up there, all jeans and attitude, dancing her way across stage. I can see the hard work and determination and I have that first flutter of pride. That's my baby and she's good.
A few more numbers and my suspicions are confirmed. No-one has got it as together as my Cassie. Yes, their steps might fall with a little more precision and their execution is a little more perfect. They may even have better timing. But there's something missing, some essential something. Oh, well. I guess their mothers are impressed, anyway.
Then she's up there again. This time it's ballet and she's gliding and leaping to "Something Wicked This Way Comes."
She's breathtaking. My little monster of short experience but large opinions is dancing with grace, poise and dignity and my heart breaks. She's so beautiful.
Hence proud moment number one.
Side bar:
A note about my former father-in-law. In my marriage I felt extremely close to Jon's parents. My own weren't much to write home about, but I developed a closeness to my in-laws and missed them greatly when Jon and I separated. Fortunately G and I have maintained a good relationship and chat easily when together.
When I was six months pregnant with Cassie we all went to a bbq for the son of a friend of theirs who was getting engaged. It was a hot January day and I was hot and tired and the baby was kicking the hell out of me. Just when I couldn't take much more Jon's dad pulled me close and let me rest my head against his shoulder. I dozed for a couple of minutes, all I needed to refresh myself and keep going. I've been fond of the man ever since.
Last night, as I watched Cassie kicking her way around the stage in her flowing black skirt I remembered that moment and decided, it was worth it.
Aiden
Here it is.
Proud moment number three.
People have a short patience span when it comes to Aiden. I think he's remarkable. Intelligent, caring, sensitive, funny. When it comes to what makes the human race special, he's the whole package (rather like my beloved). He has strong moral values but sometimes gets sidetracked by the vagaries of life.
Cassie and I arrived home just after midnight. Connor woke up during the night, hungry and in need of attention. He woke up again at 5:45 for much the same reason, plus a bad case of nappy rash for good measure. I got him up and undressed him whilest running a lavender bath.
Aiden, bless his golden heart, comes into the bathroom and says "You're tired mum. I'll look after him while you get some more sleep."
Just repeating it makes my eyes water. What did I do to deserve such a lovely child? He bathed Connor, held him while I dressed him and then fed him Weet-bix and a bottle. Then he played with him so I could go back to bed and have a bit more of a lie-in.
Naturally, I had to blog about my wonderful children instead.
They are just amazing.
And now, Blake has just woken up, come and given me a big hug and kiss good morning.
I'm having a good-child-day!
Have a lovely day yourselves.
Several hours later: In news just to hand we have a new contender for quote of the day:
Cassie when caught swearing in front of her non-swearing mother:
"Oops. Oh my god. Sorry. But, but, well it doesn't mean I don't have a good vocabularlary (sic)"
I have a severe sinus infection at the moment. This means an ongoing sore-throat, headache and ear-ache.
Nurofen and Telfast are my friends.
So, as you can imagine, when my daughter's end of year Dance Extravaganza came up yesterday, I was less than enthused.
100+ semi-competent teens jumping around a large stage to the raucous howlings that makes up todays hip-hop and r&b while 200+ assorted parents, grandparents, siblings, neighbours, butchers, bakers and candlestick makers clapped their happy little hearts out for 3 hours was not my idea of a good night in. I'd just had the kids returned to me after a two week hiatus and just wanted to chill with the family before the rush of the weekend.
However, Cassie is at a rather trying age, and I had to show her that I still love her, despite EVERYTHING, so I bought my ticket, popped her in the car and drove the half hour to Midland. We, naturally, arrived 2 hours early because Cass had to dress, gossip, rehearse, gossip, primp, gossip and preen, with a touch of gossip. Apparently a friend of hers had declared herself to being bi-sexual and this was BIG news! (I had a quiet chat in the car with Cass afterwards telling her that all teenagers have uncertain feelings as to their sexuality at this age and that she needs understanding and support, not gossip)
Sidebar:
Cassie is beautiful, witty and wise. She's also hormonal, moody and monstrous. She's having a crisis of faith after 12 years of being raised in the Jehovah's Witness religion and is playing around with Paganism (Yes, Chaosmanor I would like you to chat to her :))
After three years of being judged for leaving said religion, I've decided to adopt a 'live and let live' attitude. As long as it does no harm, then leave it alone. I did, however, want to find out why Cassie wasn't considering returning to the Witnesses as a possible option. I wasn't pushing it as a preference, just probing where her thought processes lie.
"Do you still believe in God?" I ask her.
"I don't know. I think so, but I want to explore all the possibilities. I've never known anything else."
"Nor do 99% of the population. Everyone is raised with their parents ideals, and then make up their own minds later as they experience life. Or not, if they find they just don't care."
"Well, I want to look around now so I can make an informed decision."
Fair enough.
"I'm just a little surprised because you had developed such a personal relationship with God."
A pause of about five seconds and then:
"I used to have a personal relationship with my imaginary friends, Honour and Telly. Eventually I grew out of it."
Pow
Wallop
Bam
She blinded me with logic.
Proud moment number two!
We shall now return to proud moment number one.
So, I've got two hours of nothing to do, so I head down to a local food hall for sushi and a glass of red wine. Yes, I know, preservatives in red wine exacerbates sinus problems and yes, my head ache went up a notch, but I enjoyed it anyway.
7:30 comes and my former father-in-law and I settle into our seats.
The first three numbers come and go and I do the dutiful, clap-clap-clap thing.
Then it's the fourth number and my little girl is up there, all jeans and attitude, dancing her way across stage. I can see the hard work and determination and I have that first flutter of pride. That's my baby and she's good.
A few more numbers and my suspicions are confirmed. No-one has got it as together as my Cassie. Yes, their steps might fall with a little more precision and their execution is a little more perfect. They may even have better timing. But there's something missing, some essential something. Oh, well. I guess their mothers are impressed, anyway.
Then she's up there again. This time it's ballet and she's gliding and leaping to "Something Wicked This Way Comes."
She's breathtaking. My little monster of short experience but large opinions is dancing with grace, poise and dignity and my heart breaks. She's so beautiful.
Hence proud moment number one.
Side bar:
A note about my former father-in-law. In my marriage I felt extremely close to Jon's parents. My own weren't much to write home about, but I developed a closeness to my in-laws and missed them greatly when Jon and I separated. Fortunately G and I have maintained a good relationship and chat easily when together.
When I was six months pregnant with Cassie we all went to a bbq for the son of a friend of theirs who was getting engaged. It was a hot January day and I was hot and tired and the baby was kicking the hell out of me. Just when I couldn't take much more Jon's dad pulled me close and let me rest my head against his shoulder. I dozed for a couple of minutes, all I needed to refresh myself and keep going. I've been fond of the man ever since.
Last night, as I watched Cassie kicking her way around the stage in her flowing black skirt I remembered that moment and decided, it was worth it.
Aiden
Here it is.
Proud moment number three.
People have a short patience span when it comes to Aiden. I think he's remarkable. Intelligent, caring, sensitive, funny. When it comes to what makes the human race special, he's the whole package (rather like my beloved). He has strong moral values but sometimes gets sidetracked by the vagaries of life.
Cassie and I arrived home just after midnight. Connor woke up during the night, hungry and in need of attention. He woke up again at 5:45 for much the same reason, plus a bad case of nappy rash for good measure. I got him up and undressed him whilest running a lavender bath.
Aiden, bless his golden heart, comes into the bathroom and says "You're tired mum. I'll look after him while you get some more sleep."
Just repeating it makes my eyes water. What did I do to deserve such a lovely child? He bathed Connor, held him while I dressed him and then fed him Weet-bix and a bottle. Then he played with him so I could go back to bed and have a bit more of a lie-in.
Naturally, I had to blog about my wonderful children instead.
They are just amazing.
And now, Blake has just woken up, come and given me a big hug and kiss good morning.
I'm having a good-child-day!
Have a lovely day yourselves.
Several hours later: In news just to hand we have a new contender for quote of the day:
Cassie when caught swearing in front of her non-swearing mother:
"Oops. Oh my god. Sorry. But, but, well it doesn't mean I don't have a good vocabularlary (sic)"
Unexpected results
I'm Batman
I did one of those silly memey things. I even skewed my answers a little so I wouldn't end up as Batman, after all, it's all so obvious. And yet, here's the answer:
(Just in case I mucked up, it's says I'm the Caped Crusader himself)
I did one of those silly memey things. I even skewed my answers a little so I wouldn't end up as Batman, after all, it's all so obvious. And yet, here's the answer:
(Just in case I mucked up, it's says I'm the Caped Crusader himself)
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