Whata Great Weekend

Before the week comes to an end... again... I need to share our weekend!  Dan and I had a super fun- busy weekend last weekend.  Started out on Friday- I got all dressed up and headed for the city to meet Dan and his new work mates for dinner in Surry Hills.  Surry Hills is a place we havent ventured out to much- but its really fun and eclectic and the vibe there is amazing.  Dan's boss had organized a fun day for the team- starting with golf in the morning and finishing up with drinks and dinner with everyone and their partners.  It was nice to meet everyone- and finally put a face to some of the names.. as well as meet their partners.  I knew quite a few of them already since I had worked with the company before.. in fact my old boss and the guy who hiried me in the first place were both there.  Haha, small world.  Dinner was fun- the restaurant was really cool- and since we were Bug-free we decided to take our sweet time getting home.. we met up with a friend down the road for a few drinks after dinner- and toyed with the idea of spending the night out (since Mona Vale is like an hour drive back) but ended up calling it quits, picking Lionel up in Kings Cross, and heading home.  Great night.. but wow, we cant stay up late like we used to.  The next morning was pretty brutal.

Emma, Alice and I

I was so happy when I found out Alice would be there!

Rose twins (from their fancy cocktails)

Saturday morning we had an open house- so we cleaned up and went on the worlds longest walk.  We walked along the Mona Vale headland and to the Mall.  We had to get our stamp duty for our new car (yes! We finally got a new car!  Her name is Dora "the explora"  and she is a Mazda Tribute.  A nice, practical, family fun mobile!) and while we were at the mall we browsed through kmart, the cd shop, the dress suit store.. taking our time.  Finally when Dyllan started to get antsy- we realized that we were completely wasting our time- and headed back home.  The weather was unbeatable- sun and warm.  Kind of felt like summer (we.. summer in Seattle)!

Saturday night- again our ambitions were high- as we once again had a babysitter for the night (Thanks Yunny and Lozzo!).  We met Bushy and Stacey for Vegetarian and a movie at Govinda's in  Kings Cross.  Govinda's is one of our favorite dinner/movie theaters- its awesome- you eat a fabulous vegetarian meal (buffet- and I usually hate buffets!!) then go lay down on these comfy lounges while you watch the movie- its only a small theater so its very intimate and cozy.  We saw Water for Elephants.  Great movie- we all really enjoyed it!  Well.. Bushy fell asleep for 20 min.. but I cant blame him.. Im usually the one who falls asleep during movies- when Im on a comfy couch, lying down.  As I said- our intentions were good- and we had planned on meeting up with some friends at a party afterwords.. but after the movie- and a big meal.. both Dan and I decided that we would be NO fun at a party.. socially retarded and too tired.  Besides the party wasn't even starting till WAY past our bed time (oh boy.. I'm starting to sound like my dad...)

Because my photos didnt turn out AT ALL! Here you can see the theater.

Stacey and I- in our comfy seats.  Already ate our movie candies.. 

Sunday morning was also beautiful out- so we took advantage and spent the entire day outside.  We took Dyllan to the park to do some walking.  She was cruising around- just like the big kids now.  We finished off our summery, winter day with a big BBQ a movie and some wine.  Perfect weekend, if you ask me.

Master Chef, Dyllan BUG with her new kitchen set.  Now she can cook along side me.  Dueling Chefs.

Dyllan, what does a BEAR say?!  "RAAAARRRRR"

Dyllan, what does a SNAKE say?  "SSSSSSSSSSSS"

She has now learned what a cow, a monkey, and a duck says..

Cancer Sucks

That's the best title I could come up with.  Sadly, today, we lost Granny in her battle with Cancer.  Granny, like mom, put up a darn good fight.  Never one to complain or to ask "why me?" - Granny showed us what it took to be strong and fearless as she fought for her life.  Confident that there is something better for her just around the corner, Granny assured us that she would be ok.  She promised me that she would say hello to mom in heaven- and I believe that they are up there, together right now.  They are both now in a place - free from pain and suffering- and for that- we, down here are thankful.  Granny, you will be missed.

I love this photo.  I think Granny stopped talking for a split second.. but that was it.. you can tell she wasnt going to stop for long.

Looking for treats (or wet wipes) in her purse.

Outing with Granny and Gaga.  Granny couldnt stop singing or clapping even for a picture.  Dyllan was sure amused.

Granny- we will never forget...

Your endless stories - and endless energy in telling them

Your creativity and all the handmade gifts we have received 

Your cooking and overall excellent hospitality

Your fruit cakes around the holidays

Your sense of humor

Your sarcasm and friendly banters 

Your cleanliness- and your endless supply of hand wipes in your purse

Your ability to savor things 

Your important life lessons and words of wisdom

Your memory- you never forget a birthday, holiday, or celebration

You have inspired everyone around you to live life to the fullest- and enjoy every last minute.

With the passing of Granny, and the Summer run just around the corner- today has been a day all about cancer for me.  I finally got on the ball and signed up for the summer run- created a webpage for fundraising for the event and organized the annual after party at the Casa.  

Team Sussex after party 2010- more from last years event here

Team Sussex 2010

To view my page (and more photos)- sign up and join me in the run and/or donate toward my fundraising goal- click the link below.

http://community.swedish.org/netcommunity/runningforkerry

Its amazing the support out there- as I was writing this- in a matter of just a few hours I have managed to already raise $325!  I am blown away by all the support out there- and everyones generous donations.  

Today- with cancer on the mind- I decided to take a trip down memory lane- and visit mom's blog.  I am so glad I did- It was fun to look back as mom took us all on her journey with cancer and inspired so many people along the way.  She had some great quotes- that I just couldnt help but share.. I hope you enjoy these as much as I have.

"Spirit"  June 17, 2007 I have over booked my calendar. Can I be somewhere else in spirit?I think about the days immediately after my Mother departed this world and how I talked to her aloud and could feel her answer me if I would just quiet myself and listen. Her spirit was still close by. I wondered how I would ever get beyond the hurt of being left behind.


"Routines" June 12, 2007 After my surgery, my routines got turned upside down. Like anyone in crisis, I was in despair  didn't know which way was up. Gradually, I return to those old comfort routines, but with new passion for life and renewed purpose with clarity about why these things have meaning-each breath is a gift, each day an opportunity to create a memory for both myself and someone else, make it a good one. Stay healthy.


"Know your Maker" December 20. 2007: Somewhere along the route we take a bigger interest in knowing our maker and getting in touch with our purpose. The reminder that we are not invincible or forever on this earth can draw us closer to more meaningful relationships. 


"Mrs. Doubtfire" November 17, 2007:  I have to add that I had a significant dream the Wed nite before my final CT scan. I dreamed that I skateboarded right past the pearly gates of heaven and didn't even slow down. I waved and said I would be back later, but not now. Fight on!


"Return to Life" November 10, 2007 : I am still at Cancer College and reading many books-I have a big library right now if you need any info, trying new healthy recipes, and all sorts of natural remedies to avoid ingesting any more cocktails into my system. 
.....
Real life intrudes in the fantasy life of college football-I am watching the Oregon State vs Washington Huskies and Jake Locker on the Husky team has just been injured on the field-it just reminds me that none of us know when we will be knocked down or if we will get up again. 


"Life After" September 6,2008: ...I appreciate LIFE more fully and feel each precious minute and want to encourage those who are suffering through life to find the positive and move towards that which lift us up not pulls us down. Attitude is what gets us through life with a smile on our face, or with a frown. Keep it good. You can choose a fear or love. My advice-Embrace your fear and choose love.


"Words of Wisdom" June 11, 2007  Self talk is important and keeping it positive is imperative on a daily basis.


"Out of the Fog" May 14, 2008:I have discovered that after treatment (and this should be a life lesson for anyone after hardship) one needs recovery time. Time itself is healing if taken with the right attitude (that one can be challenging also). 


"Rainbows and Butterflies" May 7, 2008:  Every decision I make is a choice between a grievance and a miracle. I choose the miracle. When I focus on the abundance and the miracles I am rich! 


"God is Love" May 31, 2007 My own truth about God has never waivered. God is Love. When I have felt most alone I need only remember that if I give love I will receive. It doesn't matter what religion you are, everyone has love. I know what a powerful thing prayer is. I learned that when I was 5. My mom sent me to my room and I prayed to be sick so she would feel sorry for me. I got good and sick and the lesson has stayed with me all my life. Be careful what you pray for. My new mantra for this year (I make one every year) was and still is "dream big and pray for the results". So if you are wondering what you can give to me, give me your love and your prayers and I will be made whole. God is Love.




"Life's a Bitch " May 29, 2007 Some would think that Life's a bitch means that it is the pits. I am having a stare down with my favorite friend right now, Bailey, our yellow lab-it's 3 am and she follows me around wherever I go whenever I go. She's a bitch (a female dog).... Every day is "the happiest day of my life" for her. She has a bitchin' attitude and I am taking notes from her. Life's a bitch-it's just how you interpret it.


"Girls Night Out" May 31, 2007 Till we meet again ladies, your presence is my present.


What to do with Limes" June 30, 2007 The other day, Susan delivered a huge bag full of limes from a party she had catered where limes were used as decoration. One can only cut up so many for your Coronas, and I still had a juicer that I hadn't used yet, so Margarita party it was! 


"Links" June 17, 2007 I have a friend who was delivered the death sentence about the same time as I was given hope of survival. Most likely the same odds, just a different delivery of the message-you have cancer. I hope I get the opportunity to walk and talk with her so she can know there is hope in each day of our lives, no matter how long we have on this earth. Who tells you how long you have on this earth? Don't miracles happen every minute?


"A Childs Perspective"  June 10, 2007 My children were only 4 and 6 years old, my Mother died of breast cancer. ...We read lots of books, and I choked up many times and wondered how I could ever survive my Mother's death or even get out of bed the next morning. I routinely picked up Sean from preschool and hand in hand we walked down the road as we talked about Grandma's death. "I don't think you understand". "You will never see Grandma Nancy again", I said."Oh yes we will". he responded happily, "In Heaven". That day I began to heal.

Girlfriends

Yoga Buddies

2007 Family Vacation to Hawaii- just before Dan arrived with his bright pink cast

Girlfriends- and princess mom

Guilda's Club Fashion Show:  Mom actually tossed her wig as she walked down the catwalk.  She got quite the standing elevation.

Mom and I - posing for our John L. Scott photos

Mylola Maria Sussex-Newton (AKA Lol, Lola, Princess Ovaltine, Loli, Worm, Roo, Rupert, Salmon, Lol Barks-a-lot.. and the latest.. Shadow (because she follows my uncle Bill around like a shadow)

Loli Marie as a Pup.. So cute!

Dyllan the Walker

This weekend Dyllan was walking EVERYWHERE!  Go Girl!

Running Shoes on and Ready for Action!

Walking- on a roll now!

Cheeky Monkeys

Dyllan and I have become quite the social butterflies lately.  Our calendar is filling up fast- and since we have a car ( a few days out of the week) it makes it easier to say "yes" to our social invitations.  Last Thursday we met a girlfriend and her two daughters ( Maddy (2) and Darcy (10 weeks) ) at a Cheeky Monkeys.  I didnt know what to expect or how much of it was actually Dyllan friendly- and was pleasantly surprised by how great it was! We got there at 2pm- paid $3 - and had the entire play center to ourselves.  Narissa and her girls weren't far behind us.  We ditched Darcy (who was passed out in the stroller) and hit the balls and the slides. When Darcy woke up- Narissa and I took turns holding Darcy and taking the girls through the obstacle courses. Dyllan loved it!  We are planning to go again this Thursday- and have invited a few more friends.  

Happy USA Father's Day!

Dyllan and I have a few things in common.  And one of them is that we both have the worlds best dads!  Happy Father's day to my Dad. Dad- you have been an amazing dad- growing up you were my hero- you could do anything, fix everything, and laugh about nothing.  One of my favorite father-daughter memories was from Indian princesses-  we would pack our sleeping bags, our Indian head bands, and go on camp-outs with our "tribe".  My favorite camp out was Camp Orchila- where we bunked up with Tanya and Wes Giesbrecht- told scary stories, put on skits, and roasted marshmallows over the camp fire. Remember the pine block derby race?  As part of being an Indian princess- you had to do the pine block derby car race- meaning you and your dad would spend hours in the garage sanding, carving, painting and weighing down your pine block derby race car.  Well, Dad and I must have done a pretty good job- because the trophy we won is still the biggest trophy I own.  I am so proud.  We won "most colorful".  Our car put-putted across the finish line- but in true Indian Princess form... it was quite the sight!  It was BEAUTIFUL!  And I have a trophy to prove it!  I could go on an on about fun memories with my dad- but I wont.  I'll just say- that he is my inspiration for many of my decisions, he makes me laugh like no one else can, he has given me so much and I will always be grateful for that.  You know when you just know that someone wants the absolute very best for you?  Thats what my dad wants for me.  Never selfish- always giving.  And I love him more than anything. Happy Father's Day, Dad!

Although we weren't in the USA for Father's Day- I felt it was appropriate to celebrate the US Father's Day here for Dan for a few reasons.  #1 Dyllan was born in the USA, thus technically he is a US Father too; #2 We celebrated Father's day last year on this day, and # 3 and a BIG #3- I will be in Las Vegas for my girlfriends Batchelorette party for the Australian fathers day! And wont have Dyllan OR Dan with me anyway.   I'm sure I will give him a "shout out" or phone call or something.. but I thought I better celebrate early just incase I am too busy for even that.

Dan, Dan, Dan... where to even begin.  You have been an amazing Father since, well, before you were even a father.  The night I took my pregnancy test.. the night before leaving for a girlfriends batchelorette party (wine tasting - party bus- Santa Barbara - batchelorette party!) - I was less than enthused... I broke the news to you- as if it were the end of the world... and your reaction was the exact opposite.  You couldnt have been more excited if you tried!!  You were beaming....from a mile away!  In fact- we had agreed that you wouldnt tell anyone until after I returned from the batchleorette party- and we had a chance to go to the doctor to confirm that the 20 positive pregnancy tests were in fact correct.  I left for the batchelorette weekend and you left for the batchelor party- and as soon as you and the boys had umm, one beer- the word was out!  You blurted out to the entire group "ImGonnaBeADAD!!"  Haha- well the news traveled fast- and it was a good thing I had already told my girlfriends- cause a few hours later- their boyfriends were telling them the news!  Oh Dan.. what can I say.. you were so proud.  Thats what I love about ya.  You just cant hold back your excitement- your enthusiasm- your spirit.  And this is all BEFORE Dyllan was even born.. The night Dyllan came into the world- Dan was asking for trouble.  He has been out skiing all day with Sean and some friends- they had a great day so decided- why stop there?!  The band, Phoenix was playing that night- so they decided to party on.  They managed to get into a sold out show- then as if that wasnt enough- they partied on at an Irish bar after.  I was nannying- who woulda thought I would go into labor NINE weeks early!?  Anyway- the long of the short- I ended up having Dyllan that night.  Dan - tired as anything- stayed up the entire night- and well into the next day with me- called my parents and brother to keep them posted- camped out with my lepord snuggy and sleep mask as we waited it out.  The minuite Dyllan came into the world- Dan was the best Dad a little premie could ask for.  He was the one who called the nurses in the NICU around the clock to check up on his little girl.  He woudl take breaks from work to come visit her in her cube- He would elbow me out of the way for his turn with "tummy time" . He gave her her first bath, while I video taped.  He loved to change her clothes almost as much as her diapers.  He was Mr. Mom.  He was the best Dad a new mom could ask for!  16+ months have gone by now- and things really havent changed, much.  Dan is no longer a stay at home (work from home) Dad (as he was for a while)- but he is 100% hands on- most involved- enthusiastic Dad I have ever seen!  I love that he knows her every little quirk.  Dyllan really loves her Dad.  She looks at him for approval (already!)- she smiles at him with admiration- enjoys his company- and they make each other laugh- uncontrollably! 

To many, many more Father's Days!  (Dan got lucky on this one- he gets TWO fathers days- while I only get one Mothers day- for some reason mothers day is the same in Australia as it is in America- but Father's day isnt..dang!)

Here are some photos from our Father's day

Surprise Breakfast (supposed to be in bed.. but we got busted making pancakes!) Mini Pancakes made by Mini.

After breakfast we walked down to the beach- and this cool little cafe.  Watched the surfers- and played at the dog park on Mona Vale headland.

The afternoon- we packed a picnic- and headed to a new part of town.  Newtown.  I had never been- and it  had been a long while since Dan last went there.  It reminded me a bit of capital hill in Seattle- artsy, funky, cool.  College town.  We ate dinner at a little cafe- where Dyllan enjoyed her first milkshake.  Every. Last. Drop.  She loved it! All in all a great day!  Sun was even out!

Mini Me

Mothers and Daughters: Mom, Me, Celeste, Debbie

We often call Dyllan "mini"- probably short for mini me- or maybe cause she was so mini when she was born.. I'm not sure, but the name stuck.  Of course there are variations of "Mini"- we also call her Mino- Minz, Min, Yao Min, Mini Mouse.  Dan and I love nick names- and musta had trouble with "Dyllan".  The only ones the name Dyllan has produced are:  Dyll Pickle or just Pickle- Dilly Bar - Dyll Bug.  Thats about it. Back to "Mini"- she sure does look like a mini me in this photo.  I was about the same age as Dyllan is now.

Debbie posted this photo on Facebook today.  I couldn't help but re-post it on here.  I know I've seen this photo a few times- but its tucked away in a box somewhere- probably in the storage room- so thanks Debbie for scanning and posting it!

Debbie Regis was one of mom's best friends.  They met while both their families were living in Tokyo- my Grandpa Dan was in the oil industry- so mom's family moved around a bit while they were growing up.  Anyway the story mom and Debbie tell is that when they moved to Tokyo my grandma Nancy found out that there was a girl about mom's age down the street- and that mom should go introduce herself.  Mom went to Debbie's door and introduced herself.  Debbie always laughs and tells me what a dork she was- with her coke bottle glasses and braces - however I have never seen a bad photo of Debbie- she is gorgeous in every photo I have seen!  Including this one- look at how young they look!  Anyway- they became friends in 7th grade- and the rest is history.  (Debbie- feel free to comment on this post!!)  I know i'm leaving out a lot of the details, but that's the just of their friendship.  They had a special friendship- the kind that no matter what the distance, how long the separation, the stage in life.. the friendship would always be there- stronger than before.  They could pick up right where they left off, as if they hadn't missed a beat.  Those are the best kinds of friends.

Mom has now passed Debbie's friendship down to me.  I feel like she is more of a sister, or an auntie actually.  She feels like family- we call her family.. so she may as well be.  She is an amazing person- and I feel so lucky she is in my life.

Hula Hands

Funny Girl.  She has a new move.  "Hulla Hands"  About half way through the video.

Dyllan Walking

Well it was only a few steps- but you get the idea!

Busy Long Weekend & Manly Food and Wine Festival

This weekend was what the Australians call "June Long Weekend" .  I asked a few times what the Monday holiday was in celebration of..and got no response.. So just now- I googled it. It's the Queen's birthday.  Of course.

Regardless of the reason for celebration- we managed to have a great "June long weekend"!  Saturday was Lionel's birthday- so I made a cake while Dan went to pick out our new car.  We decided that all 3 of us going car shopping was too much- after last weekends experience.  Car seat in- car seat out- as we test drove the cars-then Dyllan would get sick of sitting still- and crawl around the dirty car sales floor- all while we tried to negotiate with the sales man.  Anyway- so Dan went and picked out a good, solid, reliable car.  Funny enough- its the same car his dad has.  A Mazda Tribute.  We are just so happy to (almost) have a car again.  Dan picks it up Wednesday.  Yay!

Anyway- the weekend was fun- relaxing, and kind of boring on paper.  But it was nice not to have too many plans- and just do whatever.  Sunday morning we went over to Anthony and Nat's for  breakfast.  The boys went on a run (just like old times) and Nat and I hung out while Dyllan danced and put on a show for us.  When the boys got back we made a big breakfast and hung out for a bit-then headed home for Lionel's  family birthday lunch.

Monday we went on a walk around the headland and along the beach- then went to see Granny and Gaga.    Dan's mom and her brothers are on a rotation - staying at the house caring for Granny (kind of like a hospice).  We relieved Marianne for a few hours.   Granny is doing ok- her spirits are up- and she is a pleasure to be with.  Dyllan enjoyed walking around with Granny's walking device- she would scoot it all over the house- with her keyboard propped ontop so she could stop and play anytime.

After Granny and Gaga's - Dan, Dyllan and I packed our rain coats (its been raining here lately!) and headed to Manly to walk the neighborhoods and scout out potential areas to live.  We ended up walking for 2 and a half hours- discovering all kinds of cool new neighborhoods.  We are getting excited to be close to Manly again.  Unfortunately- Sydney has now crept into second place- just behind Tokyo- as most expensive city to live.  Yikes- well it shows!  Things are ridiculous here!  We are hoping to get kind of lucky when it comes time to rent!  We are hoping to move mid Sept- after we get back from the US.

Since I didnt take any pictures this weekend- Ill post photos from last weekend- at the Manly Food and Wine Festival.

The food and wine festival has gotten HUGE! It was soo much fun.  We met up with a bunch of our friends- drank wine- watched the surfers- had dinner- and enjoyed the winter sunset!

The Manly Corso

Excited for some wine!

Packed!  The entire corso was packed with booths- plus they lined the beach and streets- much bigger than the last time we went (4 years ago!)

Live music

Surfers in winter

Wine booths along the beach

The only photo we took of us or our friends..woops!

Live Reggae 

"hmm , which wine next?!"

Jeremy giving kids wine.  We were pretty glad we didnt bring Dyllan.  We were surprised by how many people did bring their kids though!  Too much work we figured.  Dyllan stayed home and drank juice.