UPDATE: The Opera was put on hold. Once cast member broke their leg and the replacement is having a baby. So it has been rescheduled for next term. Glad we won’t miss it but was looking forward to it.
This is my post to make you all jealous. Yes you read that right. I fear that this will make you all green with envy. Just what about you ask and wonder?
Next Friday I am off to see Opera Australia perform “The Barber of Seville” at the twins school. Yes the opera! The Australian Opera is coming to perform. Not only are they going to showcase a wonderful story to the kids and open them up to costumes, the stage and great performances but they are allowing parents to tag along free! Yes FREE!
Well as long as I can find a seat that is. Would sitting on the floor be o.k if I was not in the way? How early is too early to wait to make sure I get seat? Should I turn up 30mins before the performance? Not sure what to do here….there might be heaps of interest and maybe none.
I have paid for the kids to go and now I am super excited for my day at the opera. Should I dress up? Or just wear jeans and a t-shirt? I was thinking of the big hat and annoying people behind me with my swanky outfit, but that will not be happening. I have no swanky big hat and don’t think I can muster up a fancy outfit even in a weeks notice. Maybe smart casual and some makeup is what is going to actually happen.
My nana (the girls GG) loves going to the Opera House due to loving Opera, but that is not the only reason. One major reason is that they have all sorts of people come to their performances of Opera, comedy, symphony and more. Dress is not a major thing that is noted. Nana loves it that she can be with people in thongs, jeans and a t-shirt who are passionate about the arts, you also get people who are in designer frocks and all the accessories that go with it.
It is great that the Australian Opera is giving the kids a chance to experience opera and these types of performances. I grew up going to the theatre and saw many operas so I know it is going to make an impression. Making art available for all kids to experience is a good thing and many kids don’t get the opportunity to go to the opera or even a live performance of a play.
I bet you are now very jealous of me going to the opera next Friday while you might be at work or at lunch. I will think of you while having a nice pleasant midday matinee performance of “The Barber of Seville”. Wish me luck in getting a seat for the show next Friday, and then I will be able to enjoy it in style rather than trying to get room on the floor.
What have you been jealous of lately? Has someone won something? Did a certain someone get tickets or go somewhere you have always wanted to go? Let us know.
Hi everyone. Yesterday I boarded the ship for my conference or should I say relaxing holiday?
It was wonderful to meet my room mate in the flesh rather than over a computer. I am roomies with Elise from Mummy Hearts Money.
Today is the start of the conference and I’m getting ready in style. As I write this I’m having a pedicure at the spa. My feet are going to look a million bucks after my treatment.
Here are some great pictures of the last few days. A big shout out to www.cruiseabout.com.au for sponsorship.
The kids had tricycles and plastic broke on one of the bikes front wheel. Now they are both fighting over who has a turn with only one bike. Oh no not again! I cannot take this! Before the bike broke, hubby and I were discussing getting them big girl bikes, other kids their age have two wheelers and I thought they needed to make the next step. My reasons were:
1. Their old bikes are too small
2. Kids are too big for the smaller bikes
3. They both need to learn how to ride a proper bike
Last Wednesday the bikes I purchased for the girls arrived. I was amazed at the service as I only ordered them on Monday and they turned up on Wednesday. Not only was that quick but the kind post man left them at the back of the house rather than have me arrange another delivery or go to the post office to struggle with the boxes. Thank you!
Julia racing away on her new bike. She is a very happy girl.
Saturday hubby constructed the bikes and Sunday we took the twins to try them out the park, our house does not have a lot of space for bikes. A park is better or a big concrete oval to allow kids to ride their bikes easily. Not sure where you would find that. I am on the look out for places now. Maybe basketball courts or footpaths at the park that will allow kids to practice and hubby and I to take a walk.
Lillian on her big girl bike. She is so happy!
Some tips
If you order online make sure to put a note to deliver package if you are not home. My postie was very kind to leave the bikes at the back of the house. Not sure how I would have managed to get them if they got sent back to the couriers dept or the post office.
Order from a reliable shop/department store. This way you know that you will get looked after, and if something happens to the product you can be assured it will get fixed or replaced. I got the bikes from Big W, they were great! (Note this is not a sponsored post or paid advertisement for Big W, just amazed and wanted to share what great service and products that I was able to get the twins)
I purchased the twins a Repco Flutter 40cm (16″) Girls BMX Bike each. It was just right for them, not to girly but had the adequate amount of pink and butterflies. It is cute and I knew they would love it. The bike is also a BMX bike so will hold up to the kids treating it roughly and the environment we have here in the Blue Mountains.
The bikes were reasonably priced and I only paid $36 to have them delivered to the house. Bargain really, considering that I would waste nearly a whole day just going to Penrith to purchase them and not be able to put them in the car or take them out myself. I would also need to get there in school hours and race to get home to collect kids for school pick up. Home delivery makes everything much easier and less stressful.
I did plan to purchase helmets when I got the bikes online. However it presented me with measurements and I have no idea what size their heads are. I did not want to purchase the wrong ones. Due to the bikes having training wheels the bikes are very good and sturdy. The kids have not come off badly but I want to get them a helmet each so they get used to it and also is the law to wear one.
Big W in Katoomba opens in April I have heard so will most likely go there if we don’t get one for the kids beforehand.
I’m amazed the twins have taken so naturally to the bikes. I know they have training wheels on them and that might be the reason all is good so far. When do you think the training wheels should come off? I’m going to leave them on for a while until they are really comfortable with their new bikes and turning, and all sorts of other things are second nature.
Let us know how your child went with their first big kid bike. Send in your comments.
Do you watch Helix? It is a new tv show and is very addictive.
So what is Helix about?
There is a bioresearch station in the Artic that has a viral outbreak. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) travel to the station to investigate the outbreak. During their short stay they realise that the disease has implications for the whole of mankind and find themselves fighting to find a cure while dealing with the people who are infected by the disease.
The infected are very much like zombies and they attack the people who are not yet infected. It is not a show for kids so if you are interested you need to watch late at night so that your little ones don’t get upset.
The CDC don’t get the complete picture from Dr. Hiroshi Hatake and you get the feeling that this character is not who he says he is. I also think that he is a lot older than he lets on. There have been clues throughout the episodes that hint that he was in WWII, although he looks in his 40′s so that is not possible, well unless you live forever!
The CDC are doing their best to uncover answers and work on a vaccine but there are mysterious things going on with the infected people and also the organisation who set up the bioresearch station.
Do you find out anything?
Helix is like another Lost. You tune into see if something might be solved or answered only to discover that there are more questions than answers with every episode.
During the episodes there are pull throughs that say:
“Do you know what the hell is happening in Helix?”
My answer, “No I don’t know what is happening with Helix”
I don’t know what is happening, that is why I tuned into watch! I know it is a way to drum up interest and get people talking about it, and yes I am doing just that. However it made hubby and I laugh! If you don’t know what is happening, and I don’t, then I am not sure what will be happening next. Maybe they don’t either?
Is it just me that have a giggle with these pull throughs? Maybe it was the apple cider/wine or the late night the reason we had a massive giggle attack at this.
Another thought is if all viewers wrote in with their thoughts on what is happening, does this help with the next script? Do the script writers look at the ideas and think, “Geez this is a great idea! We have to do that for the next story line”
Well you never know right?
I cannot wait to see what happens next on Helix and to see if I ever find out who Dr. Hiroshi Hatake really is and why they have glowing sliver eyes. I don’t want to spoil things for you if you have not watched it yet, and like River Song I don’t want to give away spoilers sweetie.
Let me know if you are watching Helix. Do you think it is like Lost but a Sci Fi version?
Last night the twins had their first disco at school. Yes not even in the second term and the Kindy kids are dancing the night away. We had an hour to dance and just go crazy. Believe me it was chaos and crazy rained in that one hour!
Maybe it was the cupcakes fault?
Just picture it, hyped up kids with cakes and cupcakes on offer. It was noisy and just like any disco it was loud and dark. I did attempt to keep an eye on both kids but I lost one or both from time to time. When found they were with mates or outside getting yet another cupcake.
Yum this cupcake is amazing!
Check out our bling!
The girls got glow in the dark hello kitty necklaces, and funny glow in the dark rings. I loved the rings, they looked amazing and when driving home made me look like my car was the police. Word of warning: If you have these rings on your fingers when driving, you might freak yourself out that there are flashing lights following you. It is not following you but rather it is you and in your car! Take them off in future. You have been warned.
Our disco bling!
Now you thought the place was going off, and you are right. But it went even crazier with the introduction of this song:
“I came to dance-dance-dance-dance
I hit the floor cause that’s my plans plans plans plans
I’m wearing all my favorite brands brands brands brands
Give me some space for both my hands hands hands hands.
Yeah, yeah.
Cause it goes on and on and on.
And it goes on and on and on.
Yeah.”
Dynamite by Taio Cruz came on which is a song featured in the film Hop. The place erupted with kids going wild! My kids were dancing with their hands in the air and jumping everywhere!
The disco was a hit. Kids were tired and very ready for bed when I got home. The cupcakes I made for the bake sale were eaten and must have been successful as I have had no complaints.
My amazing cupcakes
Now kids are asking when the next disco is on. Oh gosh! I have party animals already and they are only five! Do your kids love going to discos? When was their first? The twins love creating discos at home. They turn the lights off, music loud, and their lady bug night light that puts stars and moons on the wall and ceiling.
Figuring out who my ideal reader/customer/user of the blog is. Once I find the ideal person I need to build the site to have what they need. This was a great exercise and it has certainly made me rethink some things.
Why make a site for you (I did start the blog just for me but it has grown, so I understand if a site is just for you and not for public consumption) and expect people to turn up, follow you, and make comments if you are not giving them something they are interested in or need.
At the event. Yum Chocolate. It was very yummy!
This was my aha moment. Yes I’m sounding very much like Oprah, but she is right. When you get those moments in your life you really do need to listen to them.
So I’m listening
The exercise of picturing your ideal client/person who uses your website was amazing. It allowed me to put myself in their shoes, figure out what they would like and why would they come to my site.
How do you do this exercise?
Follow the graphic and answer the questions listed (I have summarized the exercise). Once you have an idea of who your ideal customer or reader is, you are halfway there. Next step is to address if you are meeting their needs. This step is where the work is. Good luck and hope this has helped you to define your customers.
Understanding your ideal customer. Yes I am looking very zen in the background.
You can thank me by sending money
So there you have it, my little secret that I learnt at Jane Copeland’s event. Use it wisely people. You are now armed with some great info. I dare say that this tip is gold and I’m sure it will come in handy.
Oh and I won something fab
One other highlight was the fact that I won the bubbly that was on offer. Yes, I won a bottle of Veuve Clicquot! It is now in my fridge waiting for a big reason to open it. Maybe I don’t need a reason. I could just enjoy it and celebrate the fact that I had a good time. There would be me in my pj’s with a nice glass of bubbles watching “Being Human”, well that to me is a fun night. It is especially now I have twins!
The wonderful bottle of Veuve Clicquot photographed in my backyard. Now it is icy cold in my fridge!
Thanks so much to Jane Copeland for such a great event and for having a ticket available when I decided to finally go along. It was all meant to be. I had a great time and enjoyed mixing with other vibrant, inspiring and lovely ladies.
Do you think that this exercise would help your business? If you want more inspiration Jane is amazing and her website has wonderful ideas on what to do and not to do. Let me know if you have tried this technique and has it worked? Did it change things for the better? Send in your comments.
Is one of your kids or both forthright? Leads and is assertive? Mine are. I am making sure that I don’t say that the kids are bossy but I do make sure to get rid of bad behaviour when it occurs (or at least try). Being assertive is one thing and leading is great, however being rude and hurtful is not acceptable.
I do agree that we label and tell girls in particular that they are bossier than boys. Do you find this? Did this impact you when you were at school or the workplace? I think this video is a great eye opener. Do you think if you were not told you were bossy your life might have been different? Maybe a CEO? Or a global entrepreneur earning billions? Well you never know right?
Labels matter, encourage girls to lead and let’s ban bossy! What you get told does affect you. Whether you get told you are bossy, stupid or something else. Building up your child is important and the words you say matter. Don’t bring them down build them up.
#banbossy
It’s o.k to be ambitious! Listen to your own voice. You can change the world.
Are you going to take the pledge at banbossy.com? I did!
The kids cannot wait to be on the stage.Image courtesy of scottchan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Update: The concert was wonderful. The twins were so excited that Nana made it you could see their faces smile from the moon or further out in space. The girls did not get shy on stage but there were moments when they stopped to look at a person or something and did not sing at all.
The twins have been practicing for a concert at school. Songs have been sung at home, in the car and everywhere in between. The girls are so excited as they have told me that they will be on stage for the performance.
The concert is tomorrow and it is in honour of grandparent’s day. The school has opened their doors for visitors to look at the classrooms, be entertained with a concert in the hall and afterwards are putting on a morning tea.
I am going as I cannot wait to see my little entertainers up on stage. My mum the girl’s nana is lucky enough to attend and of course the kids are super excited about this.
Do you celebrate Grandparents Day? Does your school do anything special? I am excited just like the kids and will of course video it for hubby to see also. My little girls are such performers at home and I am sure they will be in their element on stage at school.
Cannot wait to let you know how the concert went. More tomorrow.
Boy and girl playing together. Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I was told to bend down to hear a secret from one of my girls. She then whispered in my ear, “I have a boyfriend mummy!” Now this boy is answering to the title of boyfriend and seems quite happy about it. My other little girl was close to this boy but has decided she now likes another and she now has a boyfriend as well.
The twins understanding of boyfriends is just friends so that is nice. However I was rather shocked at hearing this news. My kids are just in Kindy. It is only the end of the sixth week and we have boyfriends. What does the rest of primary school hold if this is just Kindy? Should I be worried? I’m sure it is a phase, or I’m hoping.
I know one in particular was sweet on one boy and she talks about him all the time at home. This boy does the same at his house, and I found this out after saying hi to his mummy and mentioning that one of my kids like him. He mentioned it is the one with the mischievous face, I asked if he knew who that was and he pointed to the right child. Weird how that description does sum up this child and he has worked out who is who. Some kids find it hard due to the fact that the twins are identical, but some just know who is who.
When did you kids get a boyfriend or girlfriend at school? Was it just a nice way to say that they liked each other? Or are you worried? I think the girls are just liking making new friends and having boys as mates as well as girls. Send in your comments.
Spilt nail polish. Image courtesy of marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I was on the phone to my mum and the twins came to ask,”Can we paint our nails?” My response was not now and not today. They got angry and I told them that we can do it another day. During the phone conversation I smelt nail polish and of course one of the kids came to show me their handy work.
As you might have guessed I freaked out and promptly hung up the phone. They were painting their nails in their bedroom. They did lay a towel down but still managed to get it all over the carpet. YES THEY GOT NAIL POLISH ON THE CARPET!
Since they have done this before and managed to get it all over their clothes I have learnt that soap and water is not the thing to get it out. In fact soap and water sets the nail polish and makes it impossible to get out.
I read on the internet that dabbing the area with a bit of nail polish remover can help lift the nail polish. I tried this with the carpet and it worked a treat. Yes the spots of bright red, and purple nail polish was gone. Cream carpet was restored.
After I used the little bit of nail polish remover I washed it the area with a cloth and dried the area with a towel to soak up the wet area on the carpet.
The nail polish remover that I used was Manicare Extra gentle and it had no acetone. This post is no way related or in conjunction with Manicare. I just wanted to share what has worked in case your little ones get the urge to paint their nails or more likely the carpet.
The other issue that has happened with the carpet was purple lipstick marks all over our carpet in our room. Of course this was not me or hubby and was down to the twins again. The stains came out due to some elbow grease and the great Sard Wonder Soap. (Sard Wonder Soap has no idea that I am singing their praises, all I wanted to do is to share so that you too can have spotless carpet!) Thank god it all worked as my carpet in the kids room and ours is a cream colour. Bright purple and red spots would not have been great.
Have you had issues with your kids marking your carpet? Have you decided to ditch the white lounge or white carpet due to this? What in your house is now a different colour due to the kids?
Sad about unforseen events. Feeling better when I think about what we have already.Image courtesy of Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
I’m a bit down in the dumps. I was all set to purchase a ticket to go to Problogger in August but that has been put on hold. Why you ask? Well it is all about finances. Hubby has been on a long contract with his work and has been told that he will be only renewed till the end of July. It is not only the fact that I was looking forward to taking the family to the Gold Coast again, and learning more about the business of blogging, it has implications for the rest of our life. Paying bills and keeping a roof over our head is more important than a blog conference. Although I know that is true I am sad to not be able to go this year.
Do you have plans to do things and then unforeseen events throw a spanner in the works? I was thinking of making a slick presentation to organisations for sponsorship but as tickets go on sale Monday (Yes Monday the 3rd of March tickets go on sale! I was so close to getting one) I don’t think I have time. I could buy a ticket and then work on the other variables but have decided against it. I don’t want the stress and worry if things don’t work out. Do you do this to yourself? Think if I just got the ticket, then all the other parts will fall into place? I have been thinking like that, but I need to snap out of it.
I was lucky to go to Problogger last year. 1stAvailable.com.au ran a competition and the first prize was travel to the Gold Coast and a ticket to the Problogger Conference. I won this competition and it was joy to be there and take the family on a holiday to experience my much beloved Queensland (I grew up in Queensland and miss it so much, I dream of taking the kids there again. Especially where I grew up Hervey Bay and Fraser Island)
After I dropped the kids off at school I drove to the post office. I sat in the car just thinking about it all for a while. It is rainy here and just a bit miserable like my mood. I decided that it is not the end of the world, I am grateful that we have our house, our health, the kids are happy and content and that we are together and happy. Like everyone more money would help the situation and of course allow us to do more, but we are doing o.k. There are others in the world that have it tougher than I do and I just need to be thankful for what I have already.
Do you catch yourself thinking that you are worse off for not going to something? I sometimes do, but it is really not a major issue. It would be nice, and wonderful but it is not the end of the world.
Hubby is hoping that things get sorted out before the end of July and I am trying to earn money to help out. I will be adding things to the blog that you can download at a cheap cost (I want to keep things reasonable so that it is available for all) and also have some freebies that you can use as well. So stay tuned for that.
At the end of the day, I am still working at putting last years learning’s into action. I am hoping that I can purchase a virtual ticket and this will allow me to have access to the talks and audio at the conference.
What are you grumpy about currently? Has realising that you are blessed with things already helped you deal with not going to something you desperately wanted to go to? I am feeling much better about the decision to not go now, thinking about what I have and feeling grateful for has helped so much. Send in your comments.
Update: I have decided to email some brands and agencies that I have worked with before. Why not see what happens. I can offer advertising, sponsored posts, updates while at the conference, tweeting and updates on all social media, showcasing the use of your product or service, and much more! Contact me if you are interested.
Laundry done. Now need to put it away. Image courtesy of Keerati / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Do you have issues with doing everything with the house? I am in a bit of a funk due to being seen as the person that does all the housework! I hate it, and have never loved housework. What about you? Why is it that suddenly when you are a mum, you stay home to look after the kids and the family, and presto you are suddenly the person who loves housework. Have you noticed that no one else helps and it is just YOU! I have, and it is rather annoying.
Women and mothers do want to do other things other than housework or being a slave to others needs! I know this is a big rave and I have my angry pants on today about it. I am just over being seen as the housekeeper.
How much money have I saved the household? I am sure thousands! I have twins and putting two kids in care would have not been cheap. Getting a job in the city would require hiring a nanny so again another cost.
I’m sure if the roles were reversed, men would not take it and not want to be seen as the housework slave. I know there are some stay at home dads and they do a brilliant job and hope they are not in the same boat about the assumption that they suddenly just love and adore housework.
JUST BECAUSE I AM A MOTHER DOES NOT MEAN THAT I LOVE HOUSEWORK! I have other things that I want to achieve during the day and housework is important and needs to get done but it is not what I live to do!
Does your partner help with the housework? Is it just up to you? Have you got a schedule to get it all done? Do you find that now that you are mummy/mommy that you are seen as someone that is supposed to love and like housework?
I need to earn more money so that I can hire a housekeeper. If I did have a housekeeper this would make everyone happy. I would have more time, the family would have things neat and tidy and I would not be racing around doing housework. Pity there is no housework fairy.
The kids were so excited and amazed when we got back from the zoo last Saturday. Their toys had been up to mischief, or should I say the staff ( we were staying at the Cremorne Point Manor) had arranged the kids toys like they had a lot of fun while we were out. When we got back the toys were in different positions and the twins could not stop giggling and laughing at how funny it was.
Teddies being sillyHow did Rabbity get over there?Mac Packa can climb a bunk bed
It was a delight to see the kids scream with joy and tell us to come and see what their toys were up to. Very funny.
Thanks to the staff that created this bit of fun it was magical for the girls. I am very pleased that the hotel had a sense of humour and the kids loved it! I forgot to add this to my post about our getaway.
Hubby and I took the kids away for the weekend. Well it was mainly due to winning a competition from BoundRound, but I am claiming it was all me to the kids.
So what did I win?
Well I was lucky to get a family pass to Taronga Zoo and two night’s accommodation at The Cremorne Point Manor. What an amazing prize and how lovely that we were able to stay close by when visiting the zoo.
What was it like?
Hubby took Friday off to make it a long weekend, and after kids finished school that day we continued onto the city to check into the hotel. As we drew nearer to the Cremorne Point Manor the houses got more stately and larger.
I would say they were not houses, more like mansions. Some were just amazing and I was drooling all the way to our destination. When I make it rich, I know where I want to buy some real estate. Pity that my starting bid would never be close enough! I suppose I need to keep on dreaming.
On arrival the staff at The Cremorne Point Manor were lovely and the place, room and everything was just wonderful. The room was amazing and just right for us and the twins.
Our room at the Cremorne Point Manor
We stayed in the family suite and it was just perfect. It gave the kids space and us as well. It was so nice to have our room separate from the kids. The blurb below is from the Cremorne Point Manor’s website:
“The family suite consists of a Queen Bed in one room, and a bunk bed and single bed in the other room. With an ensuite bathroom. This is a perfect room for a family or group of friends. The doors can be closed to allow Parents some peace or left open if you have small children.”
Kids room at the Cremorne Point Manor
Dinner on Valentines
After we settled into our room we rested and then changed to go out to dinner. We decided to have dinner at Mosman Rowers as it was close and caught the ferry one stop and walked the rest of the way.
While we were waiting for the ferry we spied a possum that was not shy about people and daylight. He was busy munching on leaves and other plants and was not bothered by people passing or the kids running around. This possum allowed us to take some pictures of it and seemed to be posing for the camera.
The posing possum
Waiting for the ferryWaiting to go to dinner
The twins had never been on a ferry before so this was a great experience. It was a shame we were only going one stop but they had fun none the less. Dinner was very tasty at Mosman Rowers and the mains came out fast.
Dinner at Mosman Rowers
However there was a big mix up with dessert for hubby and I and we waited a while and he finally got his and they forgot about mine. We could not wait as it was very late at this stage. When you have kids that are tired and over it, you have to call it a night. On the whole it was good but was upset about missing out on my much waited for dessert. The lady that served us at the bar, gave us a free wine each while we waited, and we thanked her, although we had to leave due to the kids.
Luck or planned? Our number for dinner was 14 and it was the 14th, Valentines actually
We decided to walk back to the hotel and as it was not that far was a good idea. It was a balmy and nice night to have an evening walk. Although kids were tired and whingey they did well to get back to the hotel on foot. I think they loved the adventure.
Our day at Taronga Zoo
The kids were taken with the ferry from yesterday but to get one to the zoo we would need to get it from Circular Quay. As we were only a 10 minute drive and the weather was rainy the decision was to drive. Driving also allowed us to be relaxed at the end of the day knowing that we could get in the car and drive quickly back to the hotel.
Just arrived at the zoo
The twins were very excited about going to the zoo and have told everyone at Kindy that they were going. I also have a song in the car called, “Daddies taking us to the Zoo tomorrow” then it says, “Mummies taking us to the zoo tomorrow” So of course they were singing it all the time. So yes they were very happy to go and see all the animals.
What animals did the kids want to see?
One animal that was on the list to see was a unicorn. I did mention that this might not be there. Yes I know it would not be there, rather than might. I was trying to break it to them gently. So as you probably guessed, we did not see a unicorn. However others that were on the list that we did see were: Zebra, Elephant, Hippo, Monkeys and Crocodiles, and so on.
What was it like when we got to the zoo?
As it was a day of rain and very overcast, I borrowed some umbrellas from the hotel. The morning is when it rained the most but it was mostly heavier drizzle and not that bad. Just enough to get you wet. After a while it passed and most of the day it was not raining so not too bad considering. Hubby purchased a rain coat from the Zoo shop and we were right to go about seeing all the animals.
When we first arrived we went on the sky safari which is the cable car that gives you a bird’s eye view of the zoo and all the animals. The kids loved it and we did a round trip.
What shows/talks did we see?
We went to the elephant talk, the seal show and the penguin talk.
Penguins
How did the kids go walking everywhere?
The kids were very good. I was wearing my fitbit for both days and the day at the zoo I walked well over 10,000 steps so that must have been for hubby and the twins also. Although they were very good they did whinge about their feet and how tired they were. These are the things that were said!
“My feet are sore!”
“My feet are on fire!”
“When are we going back to the hotel mummy?” All while saying what animal they want to see next.
What was the food like?
I did think that it would all be deep fried and little choice of what to get. Mostly my experience with these types of outings I am annoyed at the lack of healthy choices.
Taronga Zoo had plenty of fresh and healthy options. They had yummy and tasty food that hubby and I were raving about how great it was and a pleasant change.
My only disappointment was due to the kids complaining that they were hungry and then not eating anything that was given to them.
We ate at The Taronga Food Market. Hubby and I had the pulled beef chipotle burritos and they were so yummy I could have had another. Kids had a salad and an apple with fruit juice.
There was fruit to pack so you can go and see the rest of the zoo, or you can sit and have lunch if you wish, they have thought of everyone.
Zoo Shop
A word of warning. Make sure to keep an eye on your kids. Mine were so taken with the moving toy animals (tigers) in the window that they fell. One of my girls had to pat them and this made it fall! Yes they are life sized and we had to get two staff members to help us put them back where they should be. Great shop but such a joy for kids. I only took my eyes of them for a second. You have been warned! Staff were great about it, and I’m sure this happens all the time from their reaction.
The kids and I waiting for dinner at The Oaks
Dinner after the zoo
After the zoo we were very tired as you can imagine. We walked all of the zoo and kids were very good although at times annoying due to them whinging but very good considering they are not used to walking great distances.
We got to the car and then made our way back to the hotel. After such a big day, we had a rest and then showered and got ready to go to dinner.
Our dinner destination was The Oaks. It was lovely and although they said they were not very busy they looked hectic. I suppose since there were still tables available in the courtyard and elsewhere that might be the case.
Kids had a cheese pizza, hubby had a steak and I had a burger. I think after such a big day out exploring we were all very hungry. Service was great, and there was nothing to complain about. We had a great time and it was a good place to get a quick meal.
Inside the Cremorne Point Manor
Thanks to everyone for making our weekend getaway possible
I would like to thank BoundRound, The Cremorne Point Manor and Taronga Zoo for making this weekend possible. It was amazing that I won, and could take the kids to the zoo and staying so close made it much easier, especially when we live away from the city. It was a lovely to give the kids this experience and I would love to do it again one day soon.
Yesterday when I picked up the twins from school I learnt that Lillian was stressed. Yes stressed!!!! Julia had an older girl buddy and both girls have been hanging with her and this girls bestie. This bestie had a mood ring. She allowed the twins to have a go and it concluded that Lillian was indeed stressed. Gosh, if she is stressed now what will it be like when she is older. I did explain that this is just a bit of fun and the colour changes due to your body heat. The girls did not believe me and said, “You are wrong mummy, Lillian is stressed, the ring said!” O>K…. fine!
Second Tale
Wednesday I gave each child a $2 coin so that they could go to the canteen. When I picked them up that afternoon I found out how they used their money.
Julia was so happy and told me, “Mummy they gave me money!” I then explained that this was change from your money. She thought that she got more and they were so great to give her more. I could not help but have a chuckle at this.
I then asked what each child purchased with their money. Both of them told me that they got watermelon. Wow, how great that they chose something good for them, the girls love watermelon.
I could see how big they felt with their own money and going off to the canteen all by themselves. They both looked so proud of themselves and it was great to witness.
How are your kids going at school?
How is school going for your kids? Do you have any funny stories so far? If so share them. Hope your kids are loving school and having a great time.
The girls have taken to big school very well, and are enjoying it. On the first day there was a little confusion with one child. She did not understand when they all walked out the room at the end of the day and got their bags that the school day was done.
She raced out upset, crying and very shaken. She then told us after asking for a while what was the matter? she then told us, “They left her!”, “Even the teacher did not help me with my bag!” I was not sure how one child knew what to do and the others, and of course my other little girl did not. I can only imagine that she was involved in her colouring or activity that she did not hear the instruction. Then when the kids walked out of the room she was of course thinking they were coming back. We of course consoled her and explained that it was the end of the school day and no one was leaving her.
So far the kids like school, but I do think it is making them exhausted. This is great if they just got home and crashed out. Not to be. They fit it and stay up! This in turn creates snarkiness, anger, and both of them being awful to each other. This charming behaviour then does not help anyone, and gets me and hubby upset.
The twins had their swimming lesson today and I hoped that this would have knocked them out by the time we got home. No, they had to wait until the limits were pushed and everyone was getting into trouble.
Although it was a disaster tonight they fell asleep quite quickly. Maybe next week will be different. My poor little babies are so tired. They are sleeping in the morning and not helping themselves by staying up late.
I am putting them to bed at a reasonable hour, but they muck up. Did your kids/child do this when they first started school?
I am pleased that they are meeting new kids and making friends. However I was told today one of our girls got told to stop making popping noises with her mouth and finger. She is very clever now doing it, but when the teacher is talking not a good idea. The other child joined in other kids making zapping noises with her mouth and was told to refrain from the teacher as well. Day 3 and they are already being told not to do something.
They are little and don’t so are still pushing limits and learning the rules. Let me know your stories and how your little one is going at their first taste of big school.
My little girls start school or should I say my big girls. They have grown up a lot and I cannot believe they will be at school today and all week.
Below is a picture of the girls and I soon after they were born. They were 6 weeks early and of course tiny as you can see from the picture.
Mummy and the girls on the 27th of Sept, 2008. Katoomba Hosp. Julia on left, Lillian on right.Julia and Lilian on last day of school for term 1 2012 for preschoolLast day of school
Last day of School for 2012The girls last day of preschool 2013 – Look how big and grown up they are!
They will be in their school uniform and I don’t post in regards to the school they go to and show the uniform but look how much they have grown. They are going to look so cute in their uniform and have such a great day. Hope they have a great time and really enjoy themselves.
Of course I will take pictures for me and to remember their first day. Hubby has the day off so that he can be there for their first day. You might think that today is going to be relaxing afterwards, but not to be. I have a tonne of things to get done.
Kids are now out of the shower and off to help them get into school uniforms and reach all the draws in their new room.
Practicing writing. Image courtesy of Naypong / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Tomorrow the kids and are off to the primary school for their Best Start Kindergarten Assessment. This is not a test, just a guide to help the teachers understand what the kids already know and might not know. It helps them understand how to teach your child and if there are any areas that the child will need special assistance.
It will be nice for the kids to see more of their mates before school officially starts on the 3rd of February and also meet their teachers. They are very excited and keen to start Kindy and I am of course rather excited and nervous. I am excited for the fact that they are off to learn bigger and greater things but also nervous for how they will go, and hope it all goes well. I know you cannot hold their hands and I don’t want to as it is their time to learn and grow, just hope that the first day and school on a whole is a good experience.
The start time for the assessment is not early but as we have been working on holiday time it is. We need to be there for 9.35am and have been sleeping in past that. I will need to set the alarm to make sure we don’t miss our appointment.
Part of me knows it is not a test and that is fine. Each child knows things and does not know other things. They are still learning. However I do have a daydream that the teacher will come out and say, “Wow your kids are so smart, they are geniuses, and need to be in the advanced class” Yes I know silly, but I will just be pleased if they answer some questions and do o.k as it is just Kindy and they have all their school career to learn and to be clever at things.
The girls are only five years old, there is time to learn all the things they need to know. My little girls are still babies and still getting to know the world so of course my silly daydream will not be real.
I think many parents think that the teacher will tell them their child is talented. I don’t care. I just want my kids to do well, be happy, and get a good education. Every person has a talent somewhere and sometimes school is not the place to discover this.
Since the kids had two years at a Montessori Preschool it will be interesting to see if this has helped with the transition to school. I have never done the school thing yet, and my little girls are my first kids. I am a newbie at kids at school. I only have my own experience to go by.
My experience is not helpful as I went to many different schools and that was years ago now. I am keen to see if any information from the assessment is shared with the parents and to just see how they went. I don’t want to change things and appreciate that teachers need to know a baseline and where to start things for each child.
As said, my kids are just starting out and there is heaps more to learn. This year is going to be great for them as they were getting very bored at preschool and really needed the next step to keep their brains stimulated.
Have your kids had the Best Start Kindergarten Assessment, and if so how did it go? Did you get any feedback? Send in your comments.
