tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30321312011-04-22T11:10:02.903+10:00bird flu free since 2001Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.comBlogger1701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-9789746557890820912007-07-22T18:10:00.001+10:002007-07-22T18:12:19.193+10:00

As Brent will be in Launceston for his birthday (this Tuesday) I organised a surprise birthday bash for him at the 3weeds in Rozelle. Even though the surprise was leaked he was still thrilled that so many people showed up to celebrate. Way too many beers were drunk for a school night!Thanks to Jaime for organising this yummy gelato cake and to everyone for coming along. Brent also says a big

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-67844964048794903392007-07-17T20:19:00.001+10:002007-07-17T20:22:13.798+10:00

How cute is this!! These two didnt take much encouragement - looks like we have a ladies man on our hands!Lucky I was there with my cool new D40 (I am so lucky!!) to capture it :)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-3360444736887754512007-05-20T18:58:00.001+10:002007-07-17T20:24:10.652+10:00

Hannah and Angus are now the proud parents of Lochlan Fergus Harris. Born 5:22am on Saturday morning at Ryde Hospital. I was lucky to get a cuddle today, only 1 day old.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-2474756011491724252007-05-13T11:34:00.001+10:002007-05-13T11:42:06.131+10:00

Mothers Day seems to be an appropriate day to post a big congratulations to my mum who received her Diploma of Fine Arts on Thursday night from the Sydney Gallery School. A lot of work has gone into getting this far, and she is still working towards her advanced diploma.(photo is Mum, left, and her sister, right)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-23402990732022019262007-05-05T12:48:00.001+10:002007-05-05T13:16:21.436+10:00

RedbackOriginally uploaded by phoof.Got the fright of my life when this fella appeared right by my hand while I was attempting to put the cover back on the BBQ. Once I removed my heart from my mouth I couldn't resist getting a photo - the focus isnt quite right but I wasnt that keen to hang around any longer.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-18530864317848714602007-05-03T19:32:00.001+10:002007-05-03T19:35:56.953+10:00

Eunice and Luke were married last weekend in Blackheath with a wonderful reception at Leura Gardens Resort. Don't know if it is my pending nuptials or that I have become a complete sop lately but had a tear in my eye on more than one occasion - it was all very romantic. The old Cheltenham gang made a weekend of it, staying at Peartree Cottage in Leura (Go there! Its awesome). Nothing better than

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-11420686940204956822007-05-03T18:56:00.000+10:002007-05-04T15:41:07.196+10:00

4!Signatures from the duty deck officer, chief mate, and captain, and an IR to to do the changing - now that's OH&S gone crazy!I also found out today that shipping pilots wear suits to work, which is weird since everyone else on board dresses more like this.Update: for all those people that wonder what the hell Brent does out there for 6-8 weeks at a time... got browsing and found this: http://

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-24548326321843733962007-04-23T19:58:00.000+10:002007-04-23T20:12:52.186+10:00

Similan Islands provided close to, if not the best diving I have ever done (Tonga coming in very close if not slightly better). We did 6 dives over two days - we were meant to do 7 but didn't have the stamina for a night dive after a 5:30am rise, a 3 hour bus/speedboat trip and 3 dives!The crystal clear warm waters of the Similan held much to discover. We saw sharks (leopard, black tip reef),

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-89752443736195549902007-04-23T19:24:00.000+10:002007-04-23T19:56:05.017+10:00

Still clutching to the remnants of a fantastic holiday its time to tell you all about it. Sarah has been busy blogging a day by day account here, but my brain is still in muddled holiday mode and a little less concise than Sarah's so you get the mixed up broad overview from me - I haven't even done mine in order! For no particular reason, lets start with Phi Phi...Phi Phi IslandKeen to escape the

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-17242420865484553292007-04-17T14:26:00.000+10:002007-04-17T14:40:27.523+10:00

Arrived back in Sydney this morning. Although its good to be home, I hate that feeling when you walk in the door and realise that all you have in front of you is lots of washing, an empty fridge and the imminant return to work.I really enjoyed Thailand, plenty of fun stuff to do but enough time to just chill out also. Highlights were... getting saturated on Thai new year (Songkran), Diving in the

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-29755031657871899792007-04-10T13:15:00.000+10:002007-04-10T13:23:52.016+10:00

Arrived in Thailand a week ago now. You can pretty much sum up Thailand in one word - HOT - I am melting! The heat is so oppressive that even the shortest wander will leave you in a bath of sweat. Lucky there are lots of lovely beaches (and resort pools, with pool bars!) to stay cool in!Have spent time on Kata Beach, checked out the interesting nightlife in Patong, done a cooking course and are

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-50594664583554570722007-03-30T21:10:00.000+10:002007-03-30T21:11:36.694+10:00

http://www.willitblend.com/videos.aspx?type=unsafe

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-38880391164366620182007-03-30T14:43:00.000+10:002007-03-30T21:12:05.268+10:00

Spotted Guy Sebastion in the Hunter connection on my way back from lunch looking very trendy in knee length cut-off skin tight jeans and a beret (?!)Soon after, spotted Morris Iemma - heading in the right direction I presume, the right direction is south on Castlereagh apparently.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-66368553979080098272007-02-26T18:01:00.000+11:002007-02-26T18:09:48.361+11:00

My cat was attacked by a local cat-thug on Friday night in her own backyard. She is out of hospital but feeling a bit sorry for herself. Amongst other injuries, she came out with a 10cm gouge under her arm, hence the glamorous collar. Apparently there was blood under her claws though so at least she put up a fight!She spent Sunday afternoon attempting to lick her wounds but not being able to get

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-9025990391636309982007-02-17T08:33:00.000+11:002007-02-17T09:01:49.152+11:00

This is a photo of my brothers Under 8 soccer team. Would have been taken around 1994. Check out the coach at the back... Its Borat! I didnt know he coached under 8 soccer.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-6932141576391323272007-02-11T18:49:00.000+11:002007-02-09T22:06:18.534+11:00

My favourite little boy turned 1 on the 10th of January. Elise and Michael held a birthday party at their house and invited all Aidans baby friends from mothers group as well as all their childless/clueless clucky friends (that's me!). Aidan seemed to know the day was his and grinned and giggled the whole time. He got lots of cool new toys including the tunnel in the pictures and a brand new red

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-17545275690673269472007-02-09T21:53:00.000+11:002007-02-09T22:03:19.041+11:00

These tickers are cool!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-47271978992428532672007-02-06T22:20:00.001+11:002007-02-06T22:26:30.371+11:00

What better place to spend Australia Day than soaking up the sunshine on a catamaran on Sydney harbour.Alicia celebrated her 30th with a boat load of her bestest friends (and a few ring-ins like me!), a carnavale theme, plenty of champagne and a delicious seafood BBQ.More photos here.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-31302719324480283652007-02-05T20:51:00.000+11:002007-02-06T20:52:55.429+11:00

Assuming its real, this photo is amazing...http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap070205.html

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-2131627585247242182007-01-26T09:38:00.000+11:002007-01-26T10:00:33.028+11:00

...but I love whatever it was that Oscar Castro-Neves and his band was playing at Jazz in the Domain this year.I last went to the Jazz a couple of years ago and was very disappointed - vowing never to go and sit on the cold hard ground to listen to that crap they were calling music ever again. Funny what I will resort to when I haven't got a better offer eh?!So glad I went though - as this was

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-84838110887035168892007-01-07T09:40:00.000+11:002007-01-07T09:53:58.340+11:00

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-22181452474107315132007-01-04T18:05:00.000+11:002007-01-07T09:54:45.452+11:00

So I thought I would be clever (ie lazy) and do a NaNoBloPoMo (National NO Blog Posting Month) but I enjoyed it so much that it became a NaNoBlogPoTwoMo. Back into it in 2007 though, promise - well maybe not promise, but I'll give it a go.2006 was a big year. I moved to Russell Lea, left Legal Aid, joined the HSNet team, got engaged and killed approximatly 13 fish. I have dieted, boot camped,

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1167890903707254002007-01-04T17:05:00.000+11:002007-01-04T17:32:19.803+11:00

An animation by A Pattison and A Young...

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-16478753690538579612006-12-25T19:29:00.000+11:002007-01-04T19:44:31.363+11:00

Hope everyone had a happy and relaxing christmas. I spent Christmas day with Brent's family in Wollongong and then returned to Sydney for a 4 hour SingStar sing off at Jaime and Kylies. Lots of fun (anyone want to donate me an old playstation?!)As usual Brent spoilt me rotten with a brand new shiny red bike.Here are some photos from various christmas celebrations... Gingerbread House at Sue and

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1161863243718214662006-10-26T21:33:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:30:50.351+11:00

Ever wanted to perform major orthopedic surgery but just didn't know how? Well your in luck, courtesy of the wonderful world wide web: interactive hip and knee replacement tutorials!(Strangely, as I type this post, the surgeons on RPA are also performing a hip replacement. Anyone need one done? I'm an expert now!)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1160787083906562202006-10-14T10:41:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:31:18.162+11:00

Hmm, its been a while before posts. Been busy busy over the last 6 weeks and to top it off had some technical difficulties with my laptop. So I am writting this from my sexy new laptop, installing all my toys to bring you a proper update.To paraphrase... booked our wedding venue - 29th of September next year... mini break at 7 mile beach... medical dramas, but everything is ok now... new fish,

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1157017247469445582006-08-31T19:35:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:31:34.914+11:00

My new blingIn case the grapevine hasnt reached you - I'm engaged! By request - check out my lovely new ring :)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1156567276277196992006-08-26T14:37:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:31:48.435+11:00

Bought two Bala Sharks today. I will name them Bruce and Chum, not sure which is which though as they look so similar. They are still hiding out at the back of the tank, so I will post a photo once they settle in.I sliced my finger cutting dried apricots last night - wonder if they will react to the scent of blood...

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1156490259002014842006-08-25T17:12:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:32:37.621+11:00

Moth on the Window This little guy has been hanging out on my window all day. And couldnt resist giving my macro mode a workout.Off work sick today, can you tell I have too much time on my hands?!(well I could have posted a photo of my my crusty swollen conjunctive eye, but I thought the moth more interesting)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1155729545146856972006-08-16T21:53:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:33:09.490+11:00

Aidan @ Ferragosta Summer is (finally) just around the corner, the wattle and the blossums are out, the suns higher in the sky and the Young family birthday season has begun (happy birthday Dad and Peter!). Elise and I took advantage of the glorious spring weather on Sunday and took Aidan to the Ferragosta festival in Five Dock. Good food, good company and quality time with my favourite

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1155725589640608912006-08-15T20:51:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:33:27.592+11:00

Polly, then Basil then little Sybil - they love their new tank!(how cool is youtube!)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1154943519664587352006-08-07T19:34:00.000+10:002006-08-07T19:38:39.663+10:00

A friend in the know tells me that the latest pet names for Johnny and Peter amongst cabinet office staff are JHo and PCo.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1154733836910350372006-08-05T09:22:00.000+10:002006-08-05T09:23:56.923+10:00

"if you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got"good point

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1154511801337210282006-08-02T19:38:00.000+10:002006-08-02T19:43:21.393+10:00

Fish Tank V2.0 Here we go again with the fish updates. Michael has generously long term loaned me his 2 foot fishtank - thats a whole extra foot to play with.Bought a molly called polly and stevie swordtail 3 on Saturday. Sadly stevie didnt make it through the night. Polly lives on though although she is looking very lonely.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1154399677485337962006-08-01T12:23:00.000+10:002006-08-01T12:39:27.353+10:00

Did you know that one Krispy Creme original donut (doughnut) represents 20% of your daily calorie intake needs for one day!!! You don't need a government taskforce to figure out why we are all becoming fatty boombatties with those kind of figures!Not only that but they are sold by the dozen! I challenge anyone to just eat one donut when confronted with a dozen glistening, fat soaked, sugar

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1153307391929241912006-07-19T21:05:00.000+10:002006-07-19T21:09:51.983+10:00

The Hoff Gang Sue, J, Brent, Me, Hoff, Hoff, Hoff and Hoff made up team Hoff Rider for the Fushmush car rally this year. Cat and the crazy racers gang organised this years rally ending up in Moss Vale. Thanks for organising guys, had a great time even if we did manage to miss a whole section! More photos of the hoff's adventures are here.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1152782176692932872006-07-13T19:00:00.000+10:002006-07-13T19:16:16.716+10:00

Andrew and Gloria were finally married weekend before last at the Kings School Chapel, Nth Parramatta. The same chapel that my parents were married in and that Andrew and I were christened in (I even saw our names in the christening register!). Gloria looked stunning and I didnt know Andrew could scrub up that well!The ceremony was followed by a Korean buffet lunch outside the church (with 3

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1152780996068675532006-06-30T18:49:00.000+10:002006-07-13T18:58:51.393+10:00

Happy 30th Birthday Sarah! We know you really do love your husband dearly :)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1150696610392318912006-06-19T15:53:00.000+10:002006-06-19T15:56:50.400+10:00

Supervision I captured these council workers on sunday afternoon in an unamed NSW country town - click on the photo to find out what it is that takes 7 people to do on overtime rates.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1150696826888041572006-06-17T15:56:00.000+10:002006-06-19T16:02:56.273+10:00

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1150695225483810592006-06-16T15:24:00.000+10:002006-06-19T16:03:18.386+10:00

A few weekends ago the Sunday Social gang braved the freezing weather and went camping at Jervis Bay (here). The camp site was great, real bush camping, with open fires and a river but with the convienience of drinking water and a toilet block - my kinda camping!We had a lovely sunny day, perfect for a bit of fishing a few ciders and a comfy chair! And when the sun went down, a warming fire, a

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1150697166443423022006-06-14T16:02:00.000+10:002006-06-19T16:06:51.733+10:00

Biggest fishBrent went deep sea fishing last weekend for my brothers bucks night and caught the biggest fish - a huge bream that will be perfect on our new BBQ. Yum!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1148005521185376022006-05-19T12:22:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:38:35.609+11:00

This is cool (thanks John)A map of the countries I have been to -visited 20 countries (8%)create your own visited countries mapor vertaling Duits Nederlands

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1147941220590194682006-05-18T18:24:00.000+10:002006-05-18T18:35:30.500+10:00

We celebrated Sues 28th birthday at Woolwich Pier Hotel on Saturday. It was an unseasonably summery day, perfect for a ferry ride and a few glasses of bubbly in our private bungalow.There are photos here and here and here.Happy Birthday chicky babe!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1147337739486319312006-05-11T18:40:00.000+10:002006-05-11T19:01:24.006+10:00

My fishtank is currently having a little rest. After a bloom of evil black algae my last little swordtail, Leela blew her last bubble and went to the big fishtank in the sky. It's on to bigger and better things though. I am planning some major renovations - nice clean algae free water, new river sand, tropical garden, a new backdrop and some brand new (healthy) fish! Until then though, heres to

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1147255869139249652006-05-10T18:18:00.000+10:002006-05-10T20:15:04.193+10:00

In the short break between ships, Brent and I headed up to Port Stephens for a dirty weekend at the Wanderers Retreat. We stayed in one of the treehouses, set amongst the treetops and complete with a spa bath and a not so luxurious (but surprisingly unsmelly) composting toilet. It feels like there is no one else for miles waking up and seeing nothing but trees around you. There are meant to be

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1147248923871467562006-05-10T18:06:00.000+10:002006-05-10T18:16:50.726+10:00

Brent started 2 weeks ago as 3rd mate on the Spirit of Tassie. On the upside, no more iron ore; 4 week swings; free trips to tassie; no more hanging out in port kembla; and to top it off, a pay rise! On the downside...can't think of one right now. I visited last weekend and took this photo as they cruised into Darling Harbour, if you look really (really) hard you can see Brent on the bow.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1144108220121823382006-04-04T09:43:00.000+10:002007-01-04T17:37:00.145+11:00

Sorry, but just had to post more photos of Aidan! (Cluck Cluck) He's 3 months old now and knows a heap of new tricks. Holding himself up Reading Doing the hokey pokey (and giggling!)

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1144107766765623432006-04-04T09:32:00.000+10:002006-04-04T09:42:46.780+10:00

Kate and Alex were wed on the 25th of March at Terry Hills golf club. Eveything was beautiful and I had a really great time, celebrating into the small hours. See for your self...photos.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1142664496305527682006-03-18T17:44:00.000+11:002006-03-18T17:48:16.306+11:00

Damian turned 30 last Saturday and celebrated at the Red Lion hotel in Rozelle. It was a triply good day for the following reasons:Damian had a fantastic day topped off by 2 of his best mates flying all the way from LondonBumped into another my mate Neal who was celebrating his bucks night at the same bar.An unexpected surprise visit from the boy. Brent finished the discharge early and got to

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1142664210160803922006-03-18T17:42:00.000+11:002006-03-18T17:43:30.160+11:00

Went into town last night for a few pints and I would just like to say, Leprechauns smell like BO!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1142664125821151932006-03-18T17:33:00.000+11:002006-03-18T17:42:05.823+11:00

See, I CAN do this gardening thing.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1142663571864739302006-03-17T16:55:00.000+11:002006-03-18T17:32:51.873+11:00

It has begun again, although this year is not as crazy as the last (has one year really gone by!). Next weekend is Kate and Alex's wedding and we all went out for Kates hens night 2 Saturdays ago in Nth Sydney.After a few drinks at the Commodore Hotel we headed up to the Firehouse hotel for some food and more drinking. Kate was given a task list to complete, tasks including classy acts such as

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1140931596786419832006-02-26T16:18:00.000+11:002006-02-26T16:30:46.210+11:00

Aidan has grown so much in the last 6 weeks - he is already only a meter short of his mum. I was very lucky to see a smile too - he thinks kisses are hilarious!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1138871726865933842006-02-02T20:03:00.000+11:002006-02-02T20:16:38.433+11:00

The retired Italian man is a territorial creature, most often seen pacing their immaculate front gardens (guarding their tomatoes perhaps...) and wearing white chesty bonds singlets (not the cool eastern suburbs type though) teamed with suit pants (so they are ready just in case they have to go out).

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1138870777762022912006-02-02T19:42:00.000+11:002006-02-02T20:02:17.696+11:00

With Australia day so close to Chinese New Year this year, we doubled up the celebrations with an aussie chinese experience at Chans Paradise (the name says it all!). There is something comforting about boneless lemon chicken, fried rice and prawn toast with a big bowl of sweet and sour dipping sauce - you can't call yourself a true Australian till you have had the road trip country chinese meal!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1138525374110776432006-01-29T19:58:00.000+11:002006-01-29T20:02:54.113+11:00

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1138525052559461422006-01-29T19:52:00.000+11:002006-01-29T20:07:46.440+11:00

Spent the day watching gay cowboys.Could have called it a day after the festivies of the night before but Sam Kekovitch told me I had to eat lamb so I headed to Hannah and Angus' for an ol fashioned Aussie Day barbie. Very relaxing and Angus' marinated lamb steaks would have done Sam proud!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1138524503692926302006-01-29T19:48:00.000+11:002006-01-29T19:51:48.773+11:00

See you jimmy!Last wednesday night was the birthday of Robert Burns - the national poet of Scotland. To celebrate I went to a Burns supper - an excuse to crack open the whiskey and get into an old fashioned scottish feast of haggis, neeps, tatties - and my favourite - the trifle!The ritual was started by close friends of Burns a few years after his death in 1796 as a tribute to his memory. The

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1137229690266807552006-01-14T20:01:00.000+11:002006-02-09T16:46:17.830+11:00

Aidan was born early Tuesday morning (10/1/2006) after a marathon labour. Brent and I were introduced today. Congratulations Elise and Michael - he is beautiful!See for yourselves...

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1137229205901557342006-01-14T20:00:00.000+11:002006-01-14T20:00:31.700+11:00

DegeneratingFor new years we headed up the coast to a holiday house in Swansea Heads. Thanks Elise for organising the place (it's not like you didn't have plenty of other diversions!) - it was awesome.Did all the normal beach holiday things, swimming, fishing, dinner at the club, avoided the 45 degree heat by watching a movie.The house had a large spa in the master bathroom which we just had to

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1137112559343947962006-01-13T11:32:00.000+11:002006-01-13T11:40:19.676+11:00

We celebrated Christmas day at my auntie and uncles place this year. I took my gingerbread house along, I am amazed anyone had room for lollies after ham, chicken and everything else! So stuffed - but it wouldn't be christmas if wasn't.Lollies!All gone.The family with silly hats Mum and Dad

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1137110580339583622006-01-13T11:03:00.000+11:002006-01-13T11:03:00.346+11:00

J and his women Photos are finally up - will let them speak for themselves - Christmas hats were the look of the evening and many a beverage was consumed!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1137105842070276882006-01-13T09:44:00.000+11:002006-01-13T09:47:56.666+11:00

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1136423662228792352006-01-05T11:57:00.000+11:002006-01-05T12:14:22.236+11:00

Had a wonderful but very busy Christmas and New Year. Christmas Eve Eve with the Sunday social gang in Balmain, Christmas eve in the gong, Christmas with the fam in Ryde, move to Russell Lea (complete with the requisite removalist dramas - they didn't show up!) and 4 nights at Swansea heads.Took lots of photos on my new Christmas camera (thanks Brent!!) but am sans-internet at home at the moment

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1135299870845897672005-12-23T11:59:00.000+11:002005-12-23T12:05:30.033+11:00

Last weekend Brent and Duncan organised a boys fishing trip on Sydney harbour. Only with a lack of available boys due to various Christmas commitments they were forced to allow a couple of yucky girls (namely Sarah and I) onboard to make the venture economical.In all we caught 11 fish, Duncan bringing in the lion share with the lucky rod, 10 baby bream and one large unicorn fish - all inedible.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1135142732834449732005-12-21T16:17:00.000+11:002005-12-21T16:26:32.923+11:00

You might have noticed a lack of entries lately. Well, I have been busy! On top of the usual christmas celebrations I have managed to organise myself a new job and a new home for the new year!Brent and I are busy packing to move to Russell Lea between christmas and new years. The new place has a pool, spa, sauna, gym, tennis courts, ducted air con, dishwasher, gas appliances, ensuite and a

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1134013363667869942005-12-08T14:42:00.000+11:002005-12-08T14:42:43.713+11:00

IMG_0213_1 John turned the big three o on Sunday and decided to squeeze every last drop out of his 20's with his birthday weekend. We started off the day with kayaking from the spit bridge to Balmoral complete with brunch. I've never been a fan of kayaking (I think I can swim quicker!) but with Brent is the back as the power house it was actually quite pleasant - and the breakfast

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1134002523009508122005-12-08T11:42:00.000+11:002005-12-08T11:47:56.493+11:00

Cradle MountainTaking advantage of cheap flights, Brent and I headed down to Tassie for a relaxing short holiday, taking in Hobart, Launceston and the West. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, everything is so laid back and relaxed yet well organised. I think I have added at least a couple of weeks to my life with all that fresh air! (although I may have compensated for it with all the food and drinking

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1132726884715082892005-11-23T17:21:00.000+11:002007-01-07T09:56:27.723+11:00

native flower with a beeCaptured this bee on a native flower at Mt Wilson on the weekend.The boys went canyoning while Jess and I went walking, then to Mt Tomah Botanic gardens and for a bit of a scenic drive.More photos here

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1132726382819058672005-11-23T17:13:00.000+11:002005-11-23T17:13:02.873+11:00

Finished houses Last friday Heather invited us to learn to make gingerbread houses at her church. We were given pre made gingerbread for the walls and roof and let loose with an improvised piping bag and an assortment of lollies.There were some obvious gingerbread house experts about. I was amazed at the variety of designs around the room. There were trees and gardens and all sorts of

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1131320017439956802005-11-07T10:33:00.000+11:002005-11-07T10:33:37.486+11:00

Finished pumpkins Sue and J threw a belated Halloweeen party on Saturday night complete with pumpkin carving and a very creative and ghoulish dinner. These are the finished pumpkins - from left to right, Jess, Alison, Sue and Sarah. The boys thought pumpkin carving was for kids and instead spent most of the playing with dry ice.More photos are here.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1130976526820388372005-11-03T11:07:00.000+11:002005-11-03T17:44:06.663+11:00

Your IQ Is 120Your Logical Intelligence is Below AverageYour Verbal Intelligence is GeniusYour Mathematical Intelligence is GeniusYour General Knowledge is ExceptionalA Quick and Dirty IQ Test with thanks to forg

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1130837785124296972005-11-01T20:33:00.000+11:002005-11-01T20:36:25.123+11:00

I impulsively bought 2 new fish on Saturday. A breeding pair of guppies. Haven't named them yet, will get to know their personality first.I think the female is already pregnant so I may have more fish than I can handle soon.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1130660734641432492005-10-30T20:21:00.000+11:002005-11-01T20:20:21.423+11:00

10 years have passed since I left Cheltenham Girls High School and last Saturday night about half of my year met up for a school reunion at Bar 333.I was quite nervous about going, worried no one would recognise me, concerned about finding the right outfit that made me look hawt as well as portrayed the Alison of 2005. I am the girl that very nearly missed her year 12 formal as I thought I would

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1129983317958934962005-10-22T21:13:00.000+10:002005-10-22T22:43:38.793+10:00

I quite like it!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1129796137199948852005-10-20T17:45:00.000+10:002005-10-20T18:18:19.176+10:00

Jess and Andrew organised another fantastic fushmush car rally last weekend. This year we ended up in Kiama after snaking our way through Sydneys southern suburbs, Austinmere, Shellhaven and Jambaroo. We managed not to get lost at all, thanks mostly to Michelles astounding map reading skills - and who said girls can't read maps!After setting the a costume precedent last year , the pressure was on

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1129451723570183842005-10-16T18:33:00.000+10:002005-10-16T18:35:54.963+10:00

...Lucky Steve II died some time over the weekend. May he rest in peace in the big fishtank in the sky.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1128859921898247072005-10-09T22:00:00.000+10:002005-10-09T22:12:01.903+10:00

Thank you for good food, good wine, good health, good fortune and most of all, good friends.It is Canandian Thanksgiving today. What a great holiday, a holiday to give thanks for all the good things. I have been a bit negative of late but tonight lifted my spirits (hmm, damn you red wine of truth!).Celebrations at the Campbell residence...before...after...

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1128772427297648492005-10-08T21:41:00.000+10:002005-10-08T22:36:08.116+10:00

Spent the long weekend camping at Caves Beach Jervis Bay. It is a beautiful grassy campsite with resident kangaroos and a short walk in so you really feel like you are away from it all. We braved a snorkle in the 16 degree water, but mostly I did a whole lot of nothing. The localsThe boysPatto catches the disc

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1127905166178574982005-09-28T20:32:00.000+10:002005-09-28T20:59:26.186+10:00

Sometimes the little things make me so angry. Like when cars push in from the right turning lane to go straight on Dacy ave; or when the supermarket discontinues my favourite brand of light chocolate icecreams; or that crappy Dancing with the Stars show runs late delaying All Saints. This morning I very nearly lost it over garbage. I ventured down to the shared bins this morning to find not only

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1127728889984053562005-09-26T19:08:00.000+10:002005-09-26T20:29:06.033+10:00

Cheer cheer the red and the white...In case you have been living under a rock - the Swannies won the AFL grand final on Saturday! And as a long term fair weather fan of the Swans (hey, I was born in Melbourne so I have it in my blood right?) I jumped onboard the bandwagon and headed down to Frap and Racheals place for an old fashioned Grand Final barbie (thanks guys!). Turned out to be a

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1126591928859804772005-09-13T16:03:00.000+10:002005-09-13T22:41:28.640+10:00

Having kept 4 fish alive for around 4 months (even with us on holidays and with Leela constantly harrassing the others) I decided it was time to get a few more little buddies. After much deliberation I decided on a small school (4) of neon tetras. They are tiny little fish but glow neon blue and orange, a very colourful addition to the tank. They seem happy swimming around in a gang and keeping

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1126526956260535352005-09-12T21:25:00.000+10:002005-09-12T22:46:49.566+10:00

We did a number of different tours in Malaysia but the highlight was definetly our trip to Sandakan to see the Orang Utans and the Probiscus Monkeys. It also happened to be my birthday - thus creating a new tradition of birthday animal experiences.We set off (very) early at 5:45 for a quick flight across Malaysia Borneo to Sandakan and then on to the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre. The centre rescues

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1125893897304900892005-09-05T14:16:00.000+10:002005-09-05T14:18:17.313+10:00

I was intending on writting a bit about our holiday to go with the photos but I am still in holiday mode and couldn't be bothered right now. So in the mean time here they are:http://www.flickr.com/photos/alisons/sets

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1125387430516781002005-08-30T17:25:00.000+10:002005-08-30T17:37:10.523+10:00

Had a fantastic time in Malaysia. Amongst other things, we went up a big mountain, walked in the treetops, saw the men of the forest, searched for the big nosed monkeys, swam with the fishies, did lots of shopping and ate our own body weight in noodles and rice!Photos and more details later.P.S. All the fish are still alive but Stevie looks a bit sick - I think he must have missed me.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1124532521079971132005-08-20T19:58:00.000+10:002005-08-20T20:08:41.083+10:00

Arrived in Sabah yesterday to a wonderful 30 degree sunny day. After curing our jetlag with this:Yin & Yang - 110 minsHim : Aromatherapy Reflex Footbath ~ LavenderBody Wash ~ Coffee Scrub ~ Herbal Steam, Jacuzzi and relax time with champagne& strawberries ~ Balinese Massage or Warm stone MassageHer : Aromatherapy Floral Footbath ~ Lavender Body Wash ~ Javanese Lulur ~Herbal Steam, Jacuzzi and

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1124186121726895422005-08-16T19:51:00.001+10:002005-08-16T19:55:21.730+10:00

Brent passed his orals!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1124088279369778182005-08-15T15:14:00.000+10:002005-08-15T16:44:39.373+10:00

While not technically my birthday for another week or so, in typical Leo style, I have declared a full 11 days of festivities this year, my birthday fortnight! On friday night, Brent and I celebrated a cumulative 56 years at Erciyes Turkish Resturant in Surry Hills.We feasted on dips, salads, pide and grilled meat while watching 3 bellydancers, including the freaky resident male bellydancer (!).

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1124018343085000832005-08-14T21:19:00.000+10:002005-08-14T21:28:51.753+10:00

Peter's 18August is birthday season for my family. First up we have my Dad and Brother on the 13th, followed with Mum and I on the 23rd. We celebrated the boys birthdays last night at Il Vicolos in Top Ryde. The celebration was extra special as my baby brother turned 18.In 1987, Bob Hawke was elected for a 3rd term, Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka executes a bloodless coup on the island of

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1123589611386488852005-08-09T22:01:00.000+10:002005-08-09T22:22:06.426+10:00

From "You and Your Aquarium" by Dick Mills..."In some species, the anal fin has become modified as a spawning aid. In male livebearers (swordtails, guppys), the anal fin has developed into a rod-like tube that enables the sperm to be directed at the females vent during spawning."So according to this, it appears that Lucky Steve has ... ehem ... a rather large member! The only fair thing was to

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1123588484471342912005-08-09T21:54:00.000+10:002005-08-09T21:57:58.996+10:00

Jess & PattoAfter 2 years in the UK Jess and Patto are finally back in Sydney. To celebrate (and for Jess and Alex's birthdays) we all headed down to the farm for a barbie.Dave's farm is on the road to Belmore Falls in the southern highlands. After a huge meal (Dave defrosting enough sausages to feed a small army!), beer, wine and a roudy game of Cranium we all headed to bed before pumpkin hour.

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1123411213499457602005-08-06T20:24:00.000+10:002005-08-07T20:40:13.576+10:00

Hannah and Angus hosted a fondue night a few weekends ago. We started with cheese fondue laden with Jarlsburg and Kirch and followed up with chocolate fondue with fruit, marshmallows and biscotti. The chocolate was definatly the hit of the evening, Katie gives Hannah a lesson in melting chocolate......and they thought no one was watching...

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1123233715645211602005-07-29T19:21:00.000+10:002005-08-05T19:26:26.786+10:00

Baby Cha Hua Hua'sBrents sisters Chihuahua had pups - so cute! It is hard to believe the puppies could fit in the mum!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1122503896784628922005-07-28T08:36:00.000+10:002005-07-28T08:38:16.790+10:00

Ok, well SMH found it before I did - but this is brilliant...http://www.bigad.com.au/

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1122089362179044302005-07-23T13:29:00.000+10:002005-07-23T13:29:22.183+10:00

Fishtank Bought some plants for the tank last week and installed the bubble maker. The fish are loving it! They swim in and out of the leaves and sit in the bubbles and have spa baths!

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1122088997402661652005-07-23T13:23:00.000+10:002005-07-23T13:23:17.436+10:00

Kookaburra Walked to from Coogee to Bondi last weekend. I never get bored of that walk with its amazing scenery and abundance of great people-watching. Bondi backpackers, leathery local sunbathers at Bronte, the scuba divers and the fishermen at Gordons Bay, and the Clovelly stroller brigade. They don't know I'm watching as I power walk past plugged in to my iPod.Apart from the watching

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1121477648141672082005-07-16T11:15:00.000+10:002005-07-16T11:34:23.486+10:00

The 3 remaining fish are still swimming strong. I have resisted the temptation to buy any more friends for Steve, Rudiger and Biggy and to just let the tank be for a while. I did think I killed Steve the other day while experimenting with the lighting in the tank. I think all I did though was make him temporarily blind - I don't mean to hurt you Steve, really I don't!I don't believe that fish

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1121044851143590722005-07-11T11:18:00.000+10:002005-07-12T13:25:41.026+10:00

A few weeks ago I agreed to help mum out with her latest photography assignment - 7 deadly sins. We started with relatively tame photos of pride, anger, envy and sloth but somewhere along the line things got a little strange, culminating in greed with me, in bed, eating a whole BBQ chicken with my hands!I think it was possibly one of the most hilarious things I have ever done! We were both in

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3032131.post-1120387169158546382005-07-03T20:30:00.000+10:002005-07-03T21:25:29.910+10:00

Sarah and Duncan hosted a celebration of all things Canadian on Saturday night to mark Canada Day (well it's really the 1st of July but with the time difference it was still Canada Day in Canada) Along with lots of "ehs", The Tea Party and (ehem) Avril Lavigne, Canadian jokes, talk of hockey and snowboarding, double fisting, and maple leaves, we got to savor a number of canadian delicacies,

Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15212094734591009868noreply@blogger.com0