Coral-too

photos for andy! xxxx

2011-03-14T16:07:00.001+02:00

Stuff I did in the UK…..

2010-10-20T12:24:00.001+02:00

Warning if this post seems weird, it is because it was a letter originally, and it was easier to edit than re-write. If there are any strangesses, and any questions you would like to ask, please let me know. Ta muchly. xxxx
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Katie my sister and I went to the museum in West End, then to the cemetery – the Titanic sailed from Southampton, the ship that helped the survivors Carpathia - her captain is buried there. We walked through the lovely park and got a bit lost, so we just followed our noses back to West End.

Sunday the 19th, we went on the walk of Southampton walls. That was really interesting. That should be teamed up with a pub crawl! There are so many pubs in and near the walls of Southampton. The Mayflower sailed from Southampton, so there is a memorial thingy there, they popped into Plymouth for repairs to one of the other ships, that is why it is said they left from Plymouth.

I had my hair cut by the most gentle hairdresser I have ever been to. He cuts the old ladies hair at the scheme. We went to Hobbycraft (love that shop) and over to see Auntie Jean (mum’s sister). She is fine, John is a pain, he sits with a sad look on his face. Jean is so funny, she does not remember a lot, and says so. Too funny. She does not remember their house and did not remember John when she came around from the coma. Jess, their granddaughter was there, she is so vibrant. And beautiful!

We got fabric at Hobbycraft so K could make a quilt for Jorja. It was very quick and very pretty.

Katie made Jorja’s quilt, it was mostly done by the end of the morning. We went shopping in Southampton, Matalan and Primark. K bought herself some shoes – in Clarkes. She said that shoes in Aus are really expensive. I bought about 6 bras, and had already ordered from Avon. You can get lovely bras for 3 and 4 pounds – about R30 to R40. And 2 sleepshirts. Oh, and a raspberry pink tee shirt. Edible!

We had a few drinks in the pub that night.

Tuesday, we went to Milton Abbey and Milton Abbess. It is a place we used to go to when we were kids, it was very peaceful then, not so much now. There is a school run at the abbey (not in the abbey) and the kids seemed big and noisy (they were very quiet and well behaved before). It seems the whole area does not want the tourists there like they did. It used to be really visitor friendly. The village is not as pristine as it was, the old school house was for sale and we said k and I should move in and make quilts there!. The price was 850 000 pounds, and had some mad idea of bedrooms too! Like 5 and 3 bathrooms.

Katie paid for lunch at the local pub, the meal was very good.

Wed the 23rd was the best! We went to Pear Tree Church (where Mum and Dad where married), and saw the graveyard, there is a memorial to a kid who was cannibalised by his ship mates in the graveyard. – nice! Not! We saw inside the church briefly – lucky us. We went on to the old houses that we lived in and K knocked on the door of Obelisk Rd, and the same people who bought from Dad still live there; 37 years later! They let us in and we went all over the house, it looks so much more lighter than I remember. They have knocked down the workshop, that used to be stables and have built a flat for their son who lives there now. That house used to be a school. We got home and dad said not to say anything to mum (she didn’t go with us) until we got to the pub. We had such a time telling her the stories of our day.

Thursday we went to Kirtlington to see David’s grave (my uncle who died when he was 7, either 1945 or 1943), it looks in pretty good nick, but will need some attention soon. The folks have been looking after it so well, but it is starting to come apart. Dad clipped the grass and mum replaced the flowers. It was freezing cold I had on my thick jacket, the only time I needed it, and wanted a scarf too. We popped into the church and the one lady said she always wondered who David was that his grave was still tended after all these years. We went though some of the prettiest villages then on our way to Blue’s. They were really gorgeous. We had a great meal there and a superb pudding, Uncle Ian is not doing well he has Parkinson’s, so he is very unsteady on his feet and can barely talk sometimes.

On the 25th I saw my old school friend Andrea in the evening (Andy Sheppard on my FB), she is such fun. We had such a good time, we went to the Jolly Sailor in Hamble. Lots of steps down, and the same getting back to the road – wow! She has an Audi TT – shame! :-))

Sunday we had lunch at the pub.

27th shopping with Sue at Gun Warf in Portsmouth, I got myself a lovely cardigan. It was expensive, about 20 pounds. And got Ian a very nice book on the Lancaster plane. He is really chuffed with it.

Tuesday we went to Netley Abbey, it is a ruin of an Abbey that King Henry 8th destroyed. He gave it on to someone else, who used it as a home, then it has been ‘restored’ back to the abbey brickwork only. We were there way over an hour. My tackies were soaked with dew when we got home, I left them under the radiator at mum’s for 2 days to dry! Mum did not go, she does not understand ‘piles of bricks’.

29th was quiet we went to Bitterne, and went to the Sainsbury’s and picked up my Avon.

On the 30th K went out to lunch with a school friend, and George ( Dad’s army buddy) and Margaret arrived from Yorkshire. We were moved to Mat’s for 4 nights. Those kids are so funny!

1st October the 50th wedding anniversary. K bought the newspaper early and put it through mum and dad’s door. We put ina big ad for their 50th. Sue went over and decorated the door and put a handful of those glittery 50’s and ‘happy anniversary’ thingy’s and balloons! K and me went to the harvest festival at the church, it was the school thing, Geesh, how disorganised. Sue had to leave to get her hair done, I left with her. I got back to the folks place and hair dried my jeans! It was pouring with rain.

The party was a real success. Lots and lots of laughter. Lots of relatives, all great.

Next day we had breakfast at Mat & Sue’s. Eleven of us, and Sue does not even worry. She is so organised.

In the afternoon I went shopping with Sue and bought a pair of jeans at Sainsburys.

3rd, we went shopping at Marks and Spencer and I had roast lunch at Andreas’ – her hubby is so handsome! She has two teenage daughter’s one at university and the other is 16 and so grown up in a nice way. They have a dog that wanted to eat me – yeah another one! I think these dogs are turning me into a cat person!

The 4th was another good day. We said farewell to George and Margaret and they left back to Wallace and Grommit land. Dad, K & me went to the other walls of Southampton that we missed in the tour, and went to the Titanic museum. That was pretty cool. Dad’s brother George booked for us to go to out for supper. He so enjoyed our company at the party. It was a great evening, and we all had so many laughs. There was George and Carole, dad and mum, Mat & Sue and me and K. Quite a party. The Baby McRae’s were baby sat.

The 5th, we visited A Jean again.

6th, return home – small delays everywhere in the airport for me. And I brought back a pair of Cat safety boots for Sean, I had to wear them as they were so heavy, my ankles were raw by Jnb!

Obligatory crying baby, and home!

Ian took off work and I had a lovely day with him on Thursday, and he worked the weekend, but I think that was good to give me more time to re-adjust to being home. Sean came for supper Thursday, sounds like he has a girlfriend in Warmbaths. But I was so tired, anything could have been said.

brief news

2010-10-05T10:40:00.001+02:00

Tim's bmt is a definate bust.

The dr's will treat any infections / conditions as they present themselves, as he is too weak to go through another bmt currently.

maybe my last update before I leave.

2010-09-13T12:54:00.003+02:00

Whew, had a busy morning, and the last thing I did was to clean the patio, I am now too warm! But the patio looks great, as does the furniture.

Sean is invited for supper - fillet steak on the bbq. With my choice of veg.

Yesterday we had a gardener dig holes to put the pot plants in - they were big pots, so therefore big holes were dug. Now the plants look quite small on the ground. But they will grow better, and bigger.

My flight is confirmed, I fly tomorrow as per the plan. Hold thumbs for the upgrade, everyone! If lucky I may land up in biz class!

chat soon, be good till I get back!
xxxxx

try again

2010-09-06T09:33:00.002+02:00

I am trying to keep a zen like quiet mind. It is not working too well. Every now and again I reach panic status.

I can't do anything about Tim, the Drs are in charge. Coralie says his tummy is swelling - already - and he is losing weight. I hope they do some conclusive tests this week.

I am going to the UK on the 15th September. My parents 50th wedding anniversary is on the 1st Oct. 50 years - amazing. Congratulations, it is a big milestone!

I have sorted out a cross stitch to take with me - see, I have my priorities right!

over and out!

small update

2010-09-05T17:16:00.002+02:00

crap, wrote you some stuff and it has gone.
later!

Bad news

2010-09-01T12:48:00.001+02:00

Bad news this morning, I am afraid. Tim is not cancer free. The Drs
are using a wait and see approach.

I am devastated.

not much to say

2010-08-22T09:48:00.002+02:00

But we are having the best weather this weekend. Last week was pretty cool, and this weekend is great. We have been gardening (me not too much - I have a project underway) and repotted the 'yesterday, today and tomorrow's - they were utterly pot bound. Maybe they might grow a bit bigger now. Ian has bought two more red bottle brushes this morning, and more potting soil. We need to top up some pots with potting soil. My tomatoes are growing at a rate of knots. they are 'orphan' ones from last year that have just come up. Brilliant! (I love a bargain)!

My hands are healed from the dog bites, apart from the purple nail - so unattractive! Never mind.

photos!

2010-08-14T10:39:00.004+02:00

long update, get coffee!

2010-08-12T12:43:00.001+02:00

Tim, is adorable, he has a fan club of note. People who know him adore him. He is handsome and has the most expressive eyes. He smiles readily, and his eyes light up. He has an amazing way of smiling and his eyes crinkle up too. He is, as we already know a bit regressed physically and still now cannot sit up on his own, although I did spot him trying to get up on Tuesday morning on his own. He has started to try to reach and push his body a bit more, and may start getting to the crouch prior to the crawl stage soon. His teeth are coming through in a really crazy fashion. He has an eye tooth, a front top tooth, a bottom tooth and a molar. Very odd. The other two front teeth are so close to breaking through the gum, they are peaking up nearly the same size as the other teeth. He also has a molar that is close to the surface. He broke a tooth on Tuesday and on Wednesday at the hospital the molar / gum area started to bleed. So they gave him platelets – to start the clotting. And he calls me Geh!

Hospital Whilst we were in the hospital they explained they had done a particular test which ascertained how high the bone marrow of the donor was compared to Tim’s own. It came back 90 % to 10 %, but the problem is that they are not sure who’s is the high one. They did say that it is possible that the chemo wiped out the leukaemia and that the bone marrow has rejuvenated and that the 90% is Tim’s or that the 90% is the donor. But as the donor was male, they cannot separate the two conclusively. So it is a wait and see game again. But the Drs are very happy with the progress and also love Tim to bits! The last patient that had JMML at Red Cross has his own bone marrow active and has healed with no re-occurrence (so far). The other patients, parents and nursing staff all are so fond of Tim, he goes into the day room and is greeted by calls of Hello Tim, by so many. Coralie has met so many fantastic moms and dads at Red Cross. They are all so fond of each other and are so supportive of each other. Special people are Sue, Razia, Jeannine, Cathy and Karen. Karen met us through bringing J&J products for Tim and Robin. She and her husband are expecting a baby March 2011. So she has fallen pregnant since meeting us. They are incredible people and have an amazing bunch of friends who have also taken Coralie, Tim and Robin into their lives.

Robin is the cutest baby ever. He is chubby, happy and chats away. He is easy going, he just has a bit of a problem getting to sleep at night, 4 or 5 tries is normal. But he is easy to feed, no real reflux problems; in fact as a baby he is great. Teamed with Tim, there is a bit of baby tag team happening with them sometimes – nicely – taking it in turns to be difficult, but some times, both screeching at the same time. So, life is a bit difficult then. Tim is about 9.5 kgs, and Robin 6.5. So they are in very similar sized clothing already. How many times did I try to dress one or the other in the wrong clothes? Lots! When I took Tim to the Red Cross on my own I took one baby grow that was in his clothes pile to wear, and it was Robin’s – he left with the top bit on and a blanket covering the bottom bits!

Coralie looks exhausted. When I got there I was horrified how tired she looks. Tim wakes up in the night thirsty, he only drinks out of a glass, no bottles for this baby! So he has at least one night wake up, Robin seems to be calming down to one wake up a night at about 4am. The nanny Florinda, is great with the babies, but has such an attitude. Last week I noticed she didn’t bath the kids every day, when I asked her about it, she said because I had already changed the kids – Robin had been wet through – and she wasn’t going to! She tells me the biggest lies, she said they had moved with no washing at all, and that the 15 loads had accumulated since they had moved in the house ( in a week), now seeing as there was only Henk’s and Robins washing, um, yeah!! I did tell her that was not possible. She tells the most amazing stories about how she does so much around the house – and blows that story out of the water by not doing anything. She didn’t realise that Florence comes in on Saturdays to do housework, Coralie cannot manage with the two boys. And suggested to me that one of her friends come in and help out during the week. She is full of it, Coralie is thinking about getting an agency nanny.

Dog Jet is an idiot and cooked his goose when he escaped whilst I was there. It was all my fault, I had wanted to shake out a towel the cat had pooed on out in the garden – the kitchen door leads to the garage and the door into the garden is the one I am referring to. I closed the door as the dog was right there and I was not in the mood to argue with him, he just does not listen at all. The garage main door was open and the garden door opened – I am not sure if Jet opened it himself as he can slide the heavy security gate with his nose. So he was out on the road. After catching him, and he is a bugger! He decided to try to strangle himself with the choke chain, and then started biting me. I bleed quite a bit, but after a hospital visit for a tetanus inj and cleaning up, they were mostly scratches and a lot of bruising. I have a black nail – lovely! At one point I shoved my fist into his mouth as I could see him eyeing for a better place to bite. Henk was so upset, he said he cannot trust the dog, Jet has bitten him before, but with the babies…. So it will be tickets for Jet soon.

Cat Coralie’s cat is still so lovely, he sat with Tim and I on the couch we were cuddled up with hot water bottles and blankets. That was Sunday evening – we were so cosy and warm. He has mange, I think, he has massive hair loss on the inside of his back legs and on his sides. I have no idea what to do about that. And not having a car was a bit painful as I would have popped into the pet shop to ask about it.

House Their new house is lovely, a bit small, and no BIC as yet, but clean and brand new. And a built in stove! It would fit inside our downstairs easily, but is great for the boys. Sunny as it is north facing and a tiny garden, they do not need any more.

Interview I am going for an interview tomorrow – Friday at 10am. Light those candles please and some positive thoughts beaming! I feel this is the one! I was in the oncology ward when I got the call, and the company has some oncology drugs, it sounds just right! ;-))

long update, get coffee!

2010-08-12T12:43:00.000+02:00

stupid update points

2010-07-16T17:21:00.002+02:00

Tim still in hospital, now it is an allergic rash - it looks like he is allergic to perfumes. This is now going on 5 months (with a 5 day break).

I am to go to CT on the 27th July till the 11 Aug. This is to try get the boys into some routine that will not kill the nanny.

My phone is in hospital - upgrade to software, hell's teeth, it is only 7 months old. Therefore no facebook, so I will have to update anything here.

I have been quilting my life away, I have finished 4 in the last week - not all big, 2 small, 2 big. I will recharge those stoopid batteries if I think about it. Oh, and my latest is almost done.

I am pretty boring apart from the above!

thanks for reading - from a cold Coral - geesh my hands are freezing, first time this winter.

as some of you know

2010-06-28T13:59:00.002+02:00

I was away late last week, we went to visit Ian's parents. So of course I was out of range, so as to speak.

We left Thursday morning, and Wednesday night Tim took a turn for the worse and landed up in ICU with pnuemonia. Of course we all had a worried time thinking bad stuff, the Drs said at one point a 50/50 chance of survival.

He is getting better now, he is still in ICU, but there are small improvements every day.

Poor baby, if it is not one thing, it is another!

What to say?

2010-06-09T12:51:00.002+02:00

Well, I am at home, and my sewing room has had a few coats of paint. Not much else happened at home, apart from me finding out that a store Game - burnt down whilst I was away. So you see, nothing happens without my participation!

Ian is fantastic whilst I am away. There was one load of washing - most of which was mine, and I had so little come back with me. The floors need a clean and some dusting needs to be done, but otherwise nothing of note. The best partner ever!

I have tidied up the ironing, put the washing racks away, mopped the floors upstairs. Many loads of washing, yeah, I got it in my head to just keep going.

A jar of jam burst - in spectacular fashion in my rucksack - there was splintered glass everywhere. Very annoying. It took me a while to realise how to deal with it all. I used a spoon and small plastic bag to scrape out the jam/glass mix, and now have a few items to put through the washer, after I finish up with a rug that I have impulsively put in. Yeah, I am like that, if I get an idea I just do it! like Nike.

Tim is doing well with Rachel, he gave her a hard time the first night - um, yup, he did that to me too!

Football World Cup starts on Friday; I am so ambivalent, if you are into it, good for you, I couldn't care less. Footer does not do it for me.

I should take my phone into the shop for a 'technical problem', but I do not want to be without it, what to do, what to do.

Tim was on TV on Sunday night, when I get the program on disk I will be asking for help to get it on the net so my firends all over the world can view it. It is 90% Afrikaans, but at least you can see pictures of Tim and Co.

First pics of Robin!

2010-05-24T08:56:00.001+02:00

done!!!

2010-05-19T20:09:00.002+02:00

Finally I have sorted out Coralie's Paypal account. I am totally exhausted, by it all. If you (nb, this is for family only), want to deposit go ahead, it will work now.

I do not want to count how many hours I have spent on this, really and truly, hundreds.

goin' to bed now.....

thoughts from a very cluttered mind.

2010-05-13T08:26:00.003+02:00

I am internalising all my worries and thoughts, which on one hand means I am coping with them, but on the other hand, I am out of comms.

Sorry everyone!

I have the builders here, they are nearly finished, I am pretty ambivelent about them, if I get annoyed I have to think at least it is one day down, they should be finished by the weekend. Best bit? I get my own sewing room - very exciting!

Things have happened in a badly timed way. Building quote accepted, work started, building quote wrong, roof needs to be totally re-worked. Wrestle with figures, Coral loses job, building work continues. Coralie needs mom earlier (I have already changed my return flight at a big cost already), I have to refuse. She was to ask MIL. Not sure what has happened there. I guess nothing or else I would hear.

Tim may be in hospital until after Robin is born. This could be crunch time.

Thought pattern - I go to CT on the 25th, I move into RCCH with Tim, Coralie goes to Paarl to have Robin. I stay with Tim until not needed, but I am returning on the 7th June. Rachel, the babies Godmother, arrives on the 6th June. She can take over with Tim if needed, but I am sure Coralie will be out of hospital by then. But will Robin? The RCCH has nurses quarters that the sometimes rent out for R24 a night. The thought pattern is - Coralie stay with Tim, and when she wants to swap and see Robin, just do it, we (me and Rachel tag team) will be 100 m away. Now the problem is if Tim is still in hospital when Rachel leaves - what then? My only thought is that Robin returns here to JHB, I can take care of him here and return him when he is ready for school, not really!

Oh, hell - now I am overthinking it all.

going home - well, not really.

2010-05-02T12:21:00.003+02:00

Tim leaves hospital tomorrow, after a TV interview. Famous before he can even sit up by himself!

He transfers to Red Cross from tomorrow, I have no idea for how long. He has to start eating properly, he is not eating a large amount yet.

I am starting to feel more relaxed, and I feel so different, I didn't realise how tense I was.

I am knitting, another bear, my 4th; cross stitching a Christmas card; and sorting out fabric to start a 'scrap bag' quilt. So I may still be a stitcher yet.

Sean is here today, he popped in, I have fed him breakfast, and he is supposed to be doing a final clean on his rom, but is watching Jeremy Clarkson on TV instead. He will get to it...

quicky

2010-04-30T14:30:00.002+02:00

Tim may leave hospital Monday - great news.

I have finished a quilt top today - picture to follow. In a few mins.

Whew - home again

2010-04-28T10:31:00.002+02:00

Yesterday was a public holiday, I took it VERY easy. I can honestly say I did nothing constructive, oh, I knitted two teddy bears legs - that is two legs, not four!

The weather in Jhb is pretty chill, it was wonderful in CT. Here it is chill, raining and generally miz. In CT most of the time I had just a tee shirt on, yesterday I had a long sleeved tee, a track suit top, and a thick track suit weight jacket on all day. And my sheep skin slippers - cute!

Tim will be leaving the hospital next week. A sucess story of note! He has barely any hair, he has the burnt looking fluff you often see on cancer patients. He has to start eating properly and then it is home!

I am relieved, like you have no idea, but I am still so tense, I feel that it will take a while to move that 'expecting bad stuff' tension to leave.

Now, remind me, what did I blog about before Tim??? ;-))

some people are so spoilt - 2 birthday cakes!

2010-04-16T16:21:00.001+02:00

Happy Birthday Tim!

2010-04-16T09:36:00.003+02:00

Well today has been a long time coming, Tim, you have really stressed us out BIG TIME.

Have a great day, baby!

I can't wait for photos. Apparently the hospital will be having a celebration for him.

I wish I was there, but it does cost money to be there (even with my fabulous sponsorships), and I am only now starting to feel normal. (And that does not say a lot - ha!)

Have a great weekend with a soppy expression, because the transplant has been successful, news as at last night - you can do it!

xxxx

please remember

2010-04-06T12:27:00.001+02:00

Tomorrow is the BMT, this is it folks, the real thing.

Chemo stops today and BMT infused tomorrow.

Keep those positive thoughts flowing please!

I never realised (this post is a mess, like my emotions)

2010-04-05T06:58:00.004+02:00

Feeling very sorry for his self, like he should do. Note Angel Quilt Project quilt donated to him.

Coralie is NOT giving me the evil eye, she was looking past me at the TV. Do note how pale she is too. A lack of sleep, and really bad hospital food, read boiled potates and boiled pumpkin with just about everything. She says the best food they make is oatmeal porridge!

I never realised how bad this would be, the physical, bad sleep pattern, the puking, the bed changing over and over, is nothing compared to the emotional strain and the sadness I feel when I look at my most beloved grandson. Pictures of him, he is fine in the first ones, then you can see the effects of the continual vomiting, the clamminess and the chills, Tim was so cold, even the nursing staff were concerned. He has his good moments and his bad ones. It is not all bad, some of it is laughable. The hospital he is in is enormous, I got lost for about half an hour one day. You have to track your way in and out very carefully and do not deviate from the mental map.

Feeling a bit nauseous here

First day , this toy malfunctioned the night Henk stayed at the hospital, it was a bit of a giggle in retrospect!

I had an idea for his birthday, people can send / bring him a balloon to brighten up his room, and a party later, that one will be a two-some party, a first birthday party and a celebration party.

I am tired out and totally exhausted. I fly back on Wed morning.

Tim photos March 2010

2010-03-27T13:19:00.003+02:00

With my Quilt from James!
Henk always looks like that in photos - totally fed up!

I just woke up! And that camera has given me a fright!

With Mommy and Daddy

With my nana (nanny), Florinda. She adores him!

He is so hard to get a smiling photo of, he gets such a fright as the camera starts to pre-flash, it is pretty funny.

Back from CT

2010-03-27T10:36:00.002+02:00

Tim is doing well, he is teething, and has a bit of a runny nose, and is a bit miz. But seems healthy otherwise. The Hickman line goes in about 2 cm to the right of his right nipple, the line runs up to his neck, and doubles back to go down to near his heart. The outer bit is a double line, I am not sure why there is two ends. He has them all rolled up and packaged on his chest with surgical dressings. He was so good yesterday when they were working on him, they irrigated it and he was squirmy, but not shrieking.

He is a pretty happy child now, but to get a smiley photo is near impossible - he gets a puzzled look on his face when the camera pre-flashes!

I will put up some photos soon, like in a few hours.

xxxx

stuff I have done

2010-03-21T14:29:00.004+02:00

Bread - I will only use one or two cups of Krackly Wheat flour next time - too crunchy. Like eating popcorn kernels - ha ha!
But otherwise it turned out well.

Teresa Wentzler's Jeanne Love Angel

The Bug Collecter

This is how far I am with Coralie's quilt top, yes that is sushi you can see! Yes that is nearly the whole of my sewing room floor!

Off to have a late lunch - Fillet steak, salad, potatoes and more of my bread!

Update

2010-03-16T10:34:00.001+02:00

I am feeling like I would like to find a cave and hide. Mostly
because I do not want to think about Tim’s illness and the possible
outcomes. And people keep asking. They are concerned for Tim, Coralie
and Henk, and me. But I would be happy not discussing anything right
now. The uncertainties are pretty worrying. And I am tired of ‘faking’
it – trying so hard to be positive that my face aches with the smile.

Tim is not well at the moment and I am scared the BMT will be
cancelled. He is miserable. His meds have been increased 3x.

On the positive side I have lost a little bit of weight, I have not
weighed myself, but my clothes are fitting a bit better. I have
stopped drinking alcohol during the week, and over the weekends
limiting myself. I have started walking, only in the complex driveway
at the moment, which is 200m long; so one lap is 400 m. I am up to 4
laps, nearly 2km! Maybe by next week I will get up to 2kms. This is
the most exercise I have done in years, and now my Achilles Tendon is
reminding me why I stopped!

We are watching the DFL IPL 20/20 Cricket at the moment, it is a great
game and very exciting. Shane Warne is back from Aus, he and Gillcrest
are worth watching, they are the older players that have nothing to
lose, and go out to smash sixes off the ball. Feel jealous if you do
not have access to the games!

I have another trip booked for CT. 30 to 4th April. Boy, I am going to
be getting my voyager miles again.

love and hugs

Hamster girl - grateful

2010-03-10T13:53:00.002+02:00

Most of you know already that Tim's BMT is to happen soon, admission to hospital has been moved to the 29th March, with the BMT on 31st.

I have been promised cheaper tickets from 1Time - a local carrier here in SA. They are sponsoring my tickets to such an extent I am getting a return ticket for R200 - an absolute steal. (US$27.00, UK pounds 18.07, Aus$29.46)

I have also been offered a hire car for free from Hertz! Holy Moly, I really am astounded!

So all I have to do is tell news as it happens. Now my phone does not connect to this site, so I cannot blog it. But I can Facebook it. So, if you are getting my Tim news by blog only, and want updated news, Facebook is the answer. You do not have to offer any personal details, unless you want to. So it is as secure as you want it to be. If you have the right phone and the right cell phone provider you can have updates sent directly to your phone.

I have a hamster in my brain - you know - hamster syndrome, there he is running on his wheel and too much is going on to stop. I have so much to think about and so much planning to do.

I have my first trip on the 23 March and back on 26 March. Yes I know this is early, but remember the dates were changed!

I am so grateful for 1Time and Hertz, they have helped a complete stranger in a tight spot.

and again, long time since we spoke!

2010-03-05T15:31:00.002+02:00

I gave been busy this week, 4 days I have been at work for the month end / year end stock take. I personally am not happy with it, but we can go no further.

I have however trimmed all the log cabin squares to a set square, and started to sew them together this morning, then unpicked them all (ho hum).

I have Ian at home for the weekend and will enjoy that.

Have a great weekend all

xxxxx

Long time no speaks!

2010-02-27T08:11:00.002+02:00

It has been a long time since I have blogged, so no-one knows what is going on in my life.

Firstly, my home computer is giving my gip - it will not connect to the internet, so I think I will have to haul it off to the computer shop again. gah!! More money!

Apart from that things are pretty quiet.

Sean appears to have found a girl who is keen on him, finally, poor chap was losing hope! She the same age as him with two kids, I really don't care, just as long as he has someone who appreciates him and loves him. I said to him the other day I was going to stop remembering their names, they are all so fast in and out of his life.

I have made myself a new handbag, finished a cross stitch and am finishing off a quilt that was cut out over ten years ago. It is a log cabin, with the thinest strips, clearly I had no idea what I was doing; what a labour intensive project! I have the tidy-uppers and finish-offers at the moment, so cupboards ae being cleaned out and projects are being finished off. It really is satisfying. And I only have to put in about 50% effort for a finish! (ha ha - lazy me showing her head again)!

We are still waiting for a date for Tim's BMT, as you remember that date is dependent on the donor. The Medical Aid has paid out R75 000 for Tim's registery to the Bone Marrow Registry - holy moly! Hooray for Discovery Medical Aid.

I am busy at work today doing the weekly work prior to the stock take capture which will be done on Monday. This is why I have internet connection.

Have a great weekend!

xxxxx

What I am doing tomorrow

2010-02-10T14:45:00.002+02:00

I am going to a memorial service tomorrow for a friend of mine that died last week. Barbara Farmer was 71 and died of lung cancer. I met her through my fav stitching shop at Uncle Tim's Cabin. This was about 15 months ago. We got along so well and cheered each other up when we needed a shoulder to cry on. She was the most amazing stitcher, she taught at the shop and taught me how to do the Edelweiss stitch in hardanger work. During the time I knew her she met Coralie whilst Tim was still 'cooking'. I will take a photo tomorrow to show you the type of stitching she did, mostly Jacobean. I realised that I was not interested in her type of embroidery and took along my cross stitch when she had a class (I also realised I would not have the benefit of her as a teacher for the full project). So I have been going to visit her on Thursday afternoons for a while now.

Barbara was clearly failing the last time I saw her. She was in pain and irritable and had very bad memory problems. That was her last class. Her students have not quite finished that project, they have to put gold work into it still.

She was the MOST talented person, she designed so many projects, and was still talking about what she wanted to do next - never say die! She fought until the very end, she did not give up, she did not believe that this was the end. Barbara said she was not ready and was talking about needing more stash in her last weeks.

I am sad she has passed on, and I feel her memorial will be a most joyful remembrance of a fantastic person who left too early. It is to be held in the garden of the Deli at Uncle Tim's Cabin - a fitting place as she loved to stitch outside.

This does not cover my regard for Barbara and all her future plans - I so admired her bravery.

Rest in Peace, Barbara. You will not be forgotten easily.

Tim pics!

2010-02-09T11:26:00.003+02:00

With mommy

With Nicole

A bit of a smile

Tired baby, see Robin in mommy's tummy?

Handsome little chap, hmm?

He is so clever - you can't hide anything from him. I reckon although he is still in 3-6 month clothing, he is has a pretty high IQ! (sigh, takes after his granny)!

Letter to all

2010-02-01T10:51:00.000+02:00

I am not ignoring you all, I just have so much buzzing around in my mind that to put it in some semblance of sensibility that anyone could understand – or even try to follow – is impossible.

Stuff in my head;

Missing Katie, I would like to take 2 months off and just visit for a while – and that is not happening, that would be running away as my life is about to hot up.

Tim’s BMT has a tentative date of March – I am both scared and looking forward to it. It could be the end of this journey that we are traveling, he will be healed and we will be a normal family again. My plan is that I will go to Cape Town every week and stay at the hospital with him for about half the week. That bit still has to be planned, it will be scheduled as soon as I have firm dates.

Coralie & Henk have chosen the name Robin for their second son, sweet!

It has not stopped raining in about 3 weeks, and yesterday we finally had a day of sunshine. I washed my car, I did not realize how dirty it was! (What a great colour it is)!

I am not sleeping well at all, I am too worried to take a sleeping pill in case I get out of bed and knock myself out – see bruise still on bum to attest to the flooring capabilities of sleeping pills. So I feel a bit hazy all the time.

Menopause sucks! Just so you know! Menograine definitely helps, but like my Dr said “Don’t take it twice a day, take it three times a day, as it wears off and you will notice.” She said she took it 3 times a day – sometimes I think I should take it 6 times a day. Dear, dear.

What’s happening your end?

back from outer space!!!

2010-01-25T14:02:00.000+02:00

We had a good weekend, and the wedding was lovely! I was actually dreading it, thinking it would be boring – it was great fun! A non-dancing wedding, we had a superb lunch, and lots to drink. It turns out the grooms dad is a Reverend – good thing I was on my best behaviour. Ha ha! His family are lovely gentle people and we did enjoy their company. (Oops, when asked how long we had been married his sister almost fell off of her chair that we were living together – the black sheep of the family)!

We were to pop to Ian’s parent’s new cottage and see it for ourselves, but we ran out of time. We got home and changed immediately into comfy clothes.

Funny how the weather service said it was to pour with rain the whole weekend – and it didn’t! I didn’t even take a pair of sandals of any type with me. Mooi River is known to have changeable weather – I have to learn! Pack for all types of weather all the time. Once I was there with only sandals and it was freezing cold! I am twice Ian’s sister’s size, so there is no hope of borrowing anything!

Ian’s parents were great as usual and we had some fun together. Ian’s parents have moved and are closer to Jeannine and co. So we will be seeing more of them as they are closer now.

Quick update

2010-01-22T09:32:00.001+02:00

1. On our way to Ian's sister's wedding in Mooi River

2. Coralie and Henk get a grant from the JMML Foundation - yay!

3. I get a gift from 1Time air to have discounted fares for R200
return whilst Tim is in hospital with the transplant! Big yay!!

Overwhelmed and so grateful!

love you all!

dearie me!

2010-01-18T09:40:00.001+02:00

I chatted to Coralie for a while yesterday; she has so much on her mind.

Firstly the cat is sick, he is skin and bone and not coping with the heat. I asked if he had been de-wormed lately and she says she has tried, but he keeps puking up the pills. She should take him to the vet, but she had no car yesterday.

Tim’s BMT is causing stress, the first thing that is upsetting is that we all know the side effects of the procedure, but there is no way that the procedure cannot be done. Coralie’s work has said she must take unpaid leave, she cannot afford to do that, so she is panicked that they will have even more financial problems. She will probably go on maternity leave pretty soon after that anyway. She has to be with Tim in the hospital, all the time as she cannot leave him as the staff will not look after him. The Dr’s are the best in the country, the nursing staff, mostly dreadful. Henk’s work say one thing, and do another. They cannot rely on them for some relief. I did say I could go down, and I am willing, but I do not have enough money for the flights, it would be a weekly flight, and I can barely afford the one I have already paid for in February, let alone one a week. That to me is the best idea, but not possible – isn’t is so stupid that all you need is money to throw at the problem, and you do not have it?

She was pretty tearful saying that she is barely noticing her pregnancy, which I told her was normal the second one is more ‘ho-hum’ than your first. But she is upset that she barely notices that she is pregnant. But Newbie – is doing somersaults and letting her know that he is around, and she says she is enormous! We all think that with our second, hmm?

Stress, not a good thing!

and for today's update

2010-01-12T19:56:00.001+02:00

So, how’s this for an interesting day?

Last night I hear a friend’s husband is to have a triple heart bypass today. So I offer to stay with her in the hospital whilst this is happening, should she need me. She accepts, but as I know she has had a bad time recently with depression, I wondered if she would actually phone me a the time when she needed me, so I went to the hospital at about 9h00. I phoned her, I sms (texted) her and eventually thought she was either in the hospital in a place where she had turned off her phone, or her daughters had taken her shopping to take her mind off of things. Her husband was in surgery from before I got there and transferred to ICU at about 14h00. I still had not heard from her.

I had met his surgeon, who was annoyed, as she could not get hold of my friend, and I said I could not either, and was waiting for her. I expected her to walk in at anytime, so I stayed on. And cross-stitched (Teresa Wentzler Jeanne Love’s Angel, now I remember I hate wings..).

I phoned her employer to ask her did she know of either the daughters’ phone number as she was not at the hospital, and not available. She phoned me back to say the eldest daughter said my friend was at home (!!). (You have no idea what I was thinking at this moment – the kids –all three at work and the hubby in ICU and mom at home)!!

The eldest daughter phones the hospital and tells them more or less what is going on, and they will visit tonight! It works out that my friend for the third time in three months has tried to commit suicide – on the day her hubby has a triple heart bypass!! She is in that hospital over there, and he is here!

I give up! How can we get my friend to see that this is not the answer and that her family needs her? The poor man has none of his family by his side, and he was really in a bad way. I have only met him once; he will not remember me! So I left and came home feeling totally sad for him.

hello it's me!

2010-01-07T09:00:00.002+02:00

I have been around but it is easier to F/B than update here on my phone - I am so in love with that phone, I can do budgets and all kinds of things as it has excel as well as all other clever stuff. The photos are not great, but you win some you lose some.

Hope your new year is going swimmingly, I feel on the cusp of something exciting - just a gut feel!

Tim has two teeth - cute! His blood counts are up and he is looking very positive presently

Happy Christmas

2009-12-25T11:52:00.002+02:00

Happy Christmas everyone from a warm and sunny South Africa.

I do not feel even the littlest bit jealous of your snow - you can keep it!

We are having a quiet day with a bbq for 2!

I want steak - that is yet to be discussed.

hugs and all

xxxxxx

Tim quilts

2009-12-19T12:20:00.002+02:00

Tim has a tooth!! Yay!

TQ 1 and 2

TQ4

TQ5 - sorry cannot turn it, this has butterflies on the pink squares.

You can tell which are camera photos and phone photos, sadly.

Anyway I am on no 5 now!

Tim Quilt 4

2009-12-11T09:03:00.003+02:00

Yup, another one done - hell I am fast, it actually took one day in total, and now I have another available for raffle!

This one has a lot of left over squares from TQ2 and 3. So it looks similar.

Coralie says Tim is doing so well at the moment, he was excited when she got home on Wednesday and was gooing and gurgling to me on the phone. Too cute.

Tim quilt no 3 - update

2009-12-07T10:03:00.002+02:00

I have brought TQ3 to work as Carina at work - thank you Carina - has said she will take it to her pool club so people will buy raffle tickets. So far she has already sold half the tickets, and she hasn't left work yet. She has asked people at work to buy raffle tickets and the managers have gone crazy!

People are so kind!

I am feeling all warm and fuzzy and grateful!

Tim quilt no 3

2009-12-04T13:24:00.002+02:00

Poor yellow baby. Note where the Dr's keep shaving off his hair!
Timothy's blood counts are up - pretty high, his Paed is happy, his oncologist is 'ecstatic'.

This photo taken 22 Nov 2009.

A huge thank you

2009-11-30T14:59:00.002+02:00

Thank you Anne S. She has sent Coralie money via PayPal to help with Timothy's expenses. We are all grateful, and as someone said to me recently "It proves that 'thank you' is not big enough for how I feel and how grateful I feel."

You cannot say adequately in the English language how grateful you are for your friends and family and how their kind deeds have affected you so deeply and positively.

Heartfelt thanks Anne, you are so special.

Scissor fobs available at Anne's site. They are beautiful - go on, take a peep.

places we went to on holiday

2009-11-29T12:13:00.000+02:00

Things we saw in each town

Bathurst

This is the centre of Bathurst! Mel lives in a house about 1/2 a km up the road heading up the right hand side of the photo.

The big Pineapple is on the road running off the top of the photo, towards Port Alfred - it is three stories high - no, I haven't a clue either! I can tell you they do a lot of pineapple farming around here though!

Port Alfred

Not many good photos at the web site - but it is a cute town!

Mossel Bay

where we stayed

Cape Town

wow, holiday breakdown!

2009-11-28T12:10:00.001+02:00

So, the holiday rundown;

Animals I saw on the road, please note we were not actually looking for game; this was just roadside animaux!

Guinea fowl (one of my fav birds) – one unfortunately flew into the side of the car as well, committing suicide. That was sad, and did not damage the car too much, very small dents.

Horse,
cows,
sheep,
ducks,
and a type of eagle

And the cutest little black piglet who when he saw us gave us a look of ‘oh, there you are!’ That was cute. I swear I would have picked him up if it weren’t the first day on the road.

Ververt Monkeys – the whole troop on the road.
Baboons (I hate these with a passion) – ditto.

And a Dassie (pronounced dussi)– a rock hyrax – nowhere near an outcrop of rocks, crossing the road! A Dassie is like a fat rabbit with short ears and short legs. Now the best thing about them is their nearest living animal relative is the hippo, they have the same bone structure with three toes! He lives on rocky outcrops and I am not really sure what he eats, but, man can Dassies run!

People we saw – Mel and Chris, their daughter’s Storm and Chelsea Blu. Linda and Mike, Courtney, Eric and Josh – the cutest baby – if he wants attention he starts saying ‘huh, huh, huh’ like he is laughing. And when he bumbling around – he is crawling and almost walking – he says ‘a duk, a duk, a duk’ such a sweetie. Coralie, Henk and Tim – Tim was really not well the weekend he had to go to hospital on Monday and was only discharged on Thursday. My ex, Flam, his wife Karin (a sweetie), and their 3-year-old Willy. Mel and Linda’s mom and dad.

Port Alfred is a wonderful place, it is quiet, near the sea, it is a lovely place to kick back and relax. Linda and Mike were the host and hostess only dreams are made of. They allow you to do what ever you want, you can sit anywhere, read a book if you want to, there is no pressure at all.

We travelled 4200 kms – and we know it, our bums are the shape of the double cab’s seats!

So – to make you laugh and remind you that wherever possible Coral will make things interesting!

First night out – I leave my cell charger in Port Alfred. (Good thing we changed plan and went back that way)!

Third night out – I leave my very expensive coffee in Mossel Bay – ditto – as you may remember that was not the original plan to return. It was a holiday that changed daily.

About the fourth night out I realise I have not brought enough clothes, and with the change of plans every (umm) ten mins, there is not a chance to do washing. I later realised what I had done. I counted out 7 outfits, and then chose one out of those to travel in. Um, that was mistake no.1, one day I landed up commando. (Yes, I am sure you really wanted to know that)! I had to buy 2 tops – there was no chance to wash, even the last day (the extra day) was a surprise move told to me at about 1am!

But there was lots of love and laughter, I feel I bonded with Mel and Linda and their husbands like I haven’t before.

I saw my Tim, who I am doubly worried about now, he was so ill. My little yellow boy. He is on steroids now, and I am not sure about this treatment! He is 7 ½ months old, and is mostly so weak. I was so upset when I left him. We left him on Sunday night and I cried to the end of the road, then was so distant the rest of the evening. We walked from the Stay Easy at Canal Walk to the restaurant on the canal side. We saw a duck with about 12 ducklings, and Ian caught one so I could look at it, as he knows I love ducks so much. It was the tiniest little chap, with tiny little wings flapping, and the little beak chirping. It did help me cheer up I can say that. I thought of Anne S at that point. She would have enjoyed that bit!

There was a market day at Coralie’s work on the 25th – they made R3300 for Tim. Well done all.

up and at 'em

2009-11-16T13:19:00.001+02:00

We had a lovely weekend, amongst everything else we went out for lunch at a very nice - - new to me – restaurant on Saturday. And I finished off my second of the Tim Quilts on Sunday. Note to self - Must take pictures tonight!

Ian took me shopping for some new tops on Saturday and Sunday! I am so blessed to have him. Ian did not work, so things were even more relaxed than normally. Lucky us!

The Tim quilts are going to CT to the Discovery Craft Day which is to be held on the 25th I think. The craft day is aid of our famous Tim. He is such a lucky boy to have so many people worry about him and make all the efforts on his family’s behalf. Thank you everyone who has contributed, even the smallest help is appreciated.

Thank you is such a small phrase, and does not cover what I feel in ‘grateful-osity’ – my own word.

Two sleeps and I am on holiday with my Ian!
Can’t wait.

it's me again!

2009-11-11T14:26:00.002+02:00

I know it is a while since I have posted, I am in my own little foggy world, not an unpleasant place, but it is like sitting on a comfy cloud with me being pretty mindless.

I have decided that the dreaded menopause has hit in a fury. I have been staving it off since my early 30’s so, it is not surprising. I get the hot sweats, night and day, weight increase, terrible night’s sleeps – oh yay for all that, and all in the last month!

So I pop off today to see the Dr. More money she groans! Okay - update, a change of HRT and another tablet to stop the side effects - that is the sweating and yuckky bits, not side effects of tablets!

*********************************************
I have almost finished a quilt top from the bandanas. I will take photos of them as they are done.

*********************************************
Anne S – bless her – is selling scissor fobs in aid of Timothy’s treatment – they are absolutely beautiful, and this is totally unexpected. Please pop over and have a look.
Thank you so much Anne!
**********************************************
Tim has been in hospital this week, more platelets and more blood. This time they gave him the ‘big’ bag of platelets as they have realized he is a sieve! He was in over night and out by the next morning. Good.
**********************************************
Coralie’s pregnancy is progressing well, she is pretty cheerful and still has morning sickness. Please think positive thoughts that it goes away soon.

She moves house month end, good luck to her. ;-))
*********************************************
11 November – are you wearing your poppy? I am! It is not a SA thing, but I always wear mine!

just excitement after excitement!

2009-11-07T16:53:00.002+02:00

Does it ever stop? Coralie and Henk have ben told they have to get rid of the cat because the flats do not allow them. Now admitted they did know this, but the cat has never been out of the flat. He has never bothered anyone. He sits on the balcony railing and looks at the outside world. I suppose that has offended someone! Well, they are looking for somone to baby sit him until month end. (If you can help out, please speak up) The plan was that the next time I travel down he could have returned with me, but this is only until month end.

So the kids have looked at a new place to rent - close to Henk's work, he will be 5 mins from his work. They have a move on the cards!

Fundraising Rolls of Christmas Ribbons (wired) R35

2009-11-05T09:23:00.007+02:00

Tim's Aunt (Tannie Madeleine) and Granny (Ouma to you) have made up some ribbons to fund raise for Tim's medical expenses.

They are so beautiful, see the photos;

If you would like one I will post them to you. Please enquire from me and I will give you further details.

What a weekend!

2009-11-02T14:36:00.001+02:00

So, what have I been up to – you may well ask!

Wednesday I finished up and went home and decided to start another quilt. I started off with Pumpkins Gone Crazy jelly roll, and have made the pattern Chinese Coins. I have used my Moda Basics Oreos jelly roll to sash. And on Thursday late I ran out of black thread.

Friday – here is the plan – take thank you notes to the post office – check, go get black thread – check. Hear friend is in hospital, pop in to see her – she is in the hospital 2 kms from me. On the way back on a whim, I popped into the pub at the Football Club. The idea was to have a cool drink and be on my way after visiting Colleen. She and her husband run the bar. They are Colleen and Ian, we are Coral and Ian – very weird especially as he calls her Col.

Anyway, I land up spending the whole afternoon there. I haven’t laughed so much and enjoyed myself so much in such a long time. I landed up drinking Gordon’s Gin as they have a promotion on, and won a prize with every tot I had – so I scored a tee-shirt, a cap, a glass, a lanyard, a set of coasters (these were swapped for 2 glasses with another patron) and a key ring! Not bad, but the best bit was the company, and I had the giggles by the time I left.

I get home and Ian is home before me – he has taken washing out of the washing machine (oops – I had forgotten), emptied the dishwasher, and so on – poor darling, I have never done anything like this before! So to start with he was a bit cool, but had to warm up as I just kept giggling. Anyway I waited until a suitable time had passed before I went to bed.

And woke up on Saturday bright and breezy, and a smile on my face. So after I had a moment or two, popped back to the hospital to see M who’s family probably won’t visit as they live a fair distance from the hospital. I got home just before Ian did, and we went out for lunch. We were to watch a rugby match final, but we didn’t bother, we snoozed on the couch! I didn’t know who won until late last night as I could not find it on the news channel on DSTV. And as it was Halloween, I waited until past 9 for the T & T’s and they never turned up! But I did end up watching a fascinating documentary about Tasmanian Devils that have a facial cancer. So, time was not wasted.

Sunday, I popped over to M again to see her and took her a pack of charm squares, called Recipe for Friendship. Which she so liked, she kept stroking it and paging through the squares – it was so nice to see that I had got the right present for her. I went home and tidied up the patio as I was having Peter, Lynda and Kahyla over for tea. Peter is Coralie’s ex Michael’s dad and Lynda is his partner, Kahyla is Michael’s daughter.

Ian arrived home and took me out for lunch, and then he went onto the pub to see the Grand Prix, and my tea time visitors arrived. Kahyla is a tiny little sprite, and smiles such a lot. She has the most amazing blue eyes that look like shot silk.

Then Sean arrived home and after the guests left we went to the pub to meet Ian. After the end of the New York Marathon, we went home – so we weren’t late at all!

But this was a great weekend, and I think I will order up more like that!

The Lost Thimble

2009-10-26T14:11:00.000+02:00

I read Dan’ Brown’s book The Lost Symbol this weekend.

It made me think in a flight of imagination that Ann Brown could write The Lost Thimble.

But how does the plot go?

The Thimble is missing due to being mislaid, because of un-use. (is that a word)?

The search begins; and I have run out of ideas already – help me girls! I see a huge English house, green gardens, yew trees, and ladies in long skirts. But I am already imagination out!
Over to you – a sentence is enough! But make it follow on!

Fundraising party update.

2009-10-26T09:55:00.003+02:00

Apparently much fun was had by all, and they raised R1100. Wow!

A photo of Coralie and Nicole.

And a photo of the quilt I made this weekend for Kylah. Kylah is Coralie's ex- Michael's daughter.

it's a party - at Palm Beach in Cape Town

2009-10-20T13:38:00.003+02:00

Make an effort and get there! Please!!

Miss Kitty's Dragons

2009-10-16T11:22:00.003+02:00

Finally finished. I will be making it up into a cushion cover for Timothy's oncologist.

My entry into Anna's competition, Swirlygig - it is named 'In Celebration of Tim' - note the letters b.o.y. are highlighted. It is quilted, and has machine stitched hearts and leaves on the border. It did not win, but makes me smile - the winner was in both categories the one I voted for!

flat cat!

2009-10-15T09:34:00.002+02:00

I know you all think I have been 'out for lunch' but I have been battling with a virus. It didn't flatten me, but it did flatten my spirits. So, no posts.

I am pretty fed up with how my blog has deteriorated, with my one track mind. Tim is not the only subject. He is dreadfully important, but I feel to tell you how funny the Indian Mynah birds were the other morning would be so trivial, but I will tell you anyway;

The birds were sitting on the railing of the balcony outside my bedroom. It was early morning and the curtains were closed. The sun was on the curtains. My cell phone was wailing that it's battery was running flat. Every time the cell phone tried to notify me that the battery was in danger of failing, a little bird tried to imitate the ring tone. It was cute and made me laugh!

You have not seen a picture of my finished 'Miss Kitty's Dragons' By Just Nan, and this has been finished for 4 weeks. Bad me!

So you see, my posts will have to lighten up sometimes, for 'me own sanity'.

another small post from me

2009-10-09T14:05:00.002+02:00

Who has a paypal international account? I need help!

Please think positive thougths for my dad, he has been diagnosed with hip joint problems and is in terrible pain.

xxxx

great news!

2009-10-07T07:59:00.002+02:00

I am going to be a granny again! I have known for 5 mins, and now you know too! When I was with Coralie over the weekend we did a tarot card reading, and I saw a pregnancy. Well on Sunday she started wondering when she had last a period, and then thought of a home pregnancy test. It is postive!!

I laughed and cried.

fund raising idea

2009-10-05T13:06:00.000+02:00

Here's my idea, everyone who buys a Sunflower Bandana forward it to me after you have used it. I will make quilts from them and raffle them off to raise funds for Tim's medical expenses. If you want to foward them to me just email me and I will send you my address.

update no 213334

2009-10-05T08:59:00.000+02:00

Wow, lots to tell you all.

I flew to CT on Thursday morning and slept all the way – bargain! But I lost my pillow in the airport on the way down, I know exactly where it was lost, and it was gone! So today I have a stiff neck! From sleeping all the way back.

When I arrived Henk’s mom had Tim in her arms, he looked dreadful. He had been taken out of ICU and discharged as they did not want him in the hospital with sick children. He was as weak as a new born. Poor baby. Henk’s mom Lauretta then went into the airport to leave CT to JHB (granny tag team) and Coralie and I went on to the Red Cross hospital for Tim’s check up. His oncologist even phoned his paediatrician to say “His sparkle has gone”. But by the end of the day he was so improved, I think the fact he has started eating like a horse helps! He loves Purity carrots!

So, at this stage he has spent almost ten days in the hospital having blood transfusions, and platelet transfusions.

Thursday night he kept up Coralie and Henk so Coralie stayed home on Friday. I was supposed to have him all day. But it was for the best as he had a really bloody nappy later in the day. Henk had taken Coralie’s car as his had a flat battery and we had no transport. We had to ask a neighbour to take us to the paed, as we were car-less. I had phoned the Dr’s office to ask if we could just walk straight in the Dr’s rooms as Tim had just come out of hospital and was still weak. So we saw the Dr very quickly and he wanted more blood tests taken. Henk came home to swap cars and give us Coralie’s one back. We then took Tim to have his bloods done. And later landed up taking him back to hospital as he needed more blood transfusions and platelets. This poor child has transfusion after transfusion, and his blood counts still are not high enough. (I am a bit foggy on why he needs the bloods at all, the platelets I understand). The most amazing thing is that this poor kid after the platelets has a totally different colour and is so calm. So, the poor baby was back in hopistal. I have to admit neither Coralie or I took it well. The staff all say ‘Hello Timothy’ when they see them. Nobody wants to be that recognised!

So he spent another night in hospital. He has started playing with his bear; it is so sweet.

So Saturday morning, Coralie and I went to see him early on, and when he went to sleep we left to go to the mall. We spent a bit of money and had a breakfast together. That was one of the high points of the weekend. We went back to the hospital and about 17h30 we took him home. The sister had tried to take bloods from his neck and there is a huge bruise on his neck, and his skin is so thin when the plasters are removed, they tear off his skin, so he really does not look great as he had to have his head shaved as well to get his drip in. He is covered in bruises – at every joint there is two bruises. They cannot get a needle in just anywhere. For the blood tests they are taking samples from his heel now, as there is nowhere else to get a sample from.

So I left early on Sunday, and got home about lunchtime. I was sad to leave but had to get home and to work, I have a stock take this week to complete.

And this morning I hit a dog on the way to work. I was traveling down a remote road and something ran in front of my car, I couldn’t see what it was, then realized two dogs were chasing it, and the leading one landed up being hit by my car bumper. I am not impressed and have a good mind to stop at the nearest farm house to see if the dog is okay and see what their insurance status is as they are liable. Sigh, I am so fed up with excitement!

picture heavy

2009-09-28T09:04:00.004+02:00

Tim is still in hospital, I am planning to fly down on Thursday.

On Saturday I went to the quilting exhibition to help out. Saturday had the most perfect weather. We were under a gazebo, and it was such a great relaxing day. I met some wonderful people and found out about a Quilter’s Guild near to me. So, next month I will be there!

The quilts were hung between the trees, so it was a really romantic setting.

Enjoy the pictures.

Tim update no 3

2009-09-25T10:21:00.003+02:00

Tim is back in hospital, he left on Monday and was back in on Wednesday night. He had respiratory distress.

He has had platelet and blood transfusions. And Coralie does not know when he is coming out.

Poor little munchkin.

*****************

Yesterday was Hertitage Day - AKA Braai Day (BBQ Day). We had Michael's dad, Peter over for - yes, you guessed it, a braai. It was a good afternoon. I really enjoyed myself.

I am working at a quilt show tomorrow at Uncle Tim's Cabin, an old fashioned shopping centre near us. And can you believe it, Ian is not working. He has decided he will paint the balcony railings off of our bedroom. And other household tasks.

Does anyone have any idea why I cannot post in FB? I can comment only.

new quilt

2009-09-22T07:49:00.002+02:00

Yes, Anna, spot the mistake again!! The same mistake 2 quilts running!

Tim update no 2

2009-09-22T07:27:00.002+02:00

Tim left the hospital yesterday afternoon. Coralie sounded pretty happy. I think that had a lot to do with the fact the nursing staff told her to go home and get some sleep, which she did, she must have had an uninterrupted 6 or so hours. So she feels a lot stronger.

Tim update no 1

2009-09-21T09:38:00.000+02:00

Tim is in hospital in Paarl, his platelet count dropped rapidly to 2 - is that a real number? Holy Moly! But Coralie is very happy with the hospital and says he is well looked after and the staff are lovely! (What a change from government hospitals in this country – there it is a-fend-for-yourself)!

I am positive he will be okay and as usual he is in good hands.

no title

2009-09-18T21:28:00.003+02:00

It is terrible to say, but I have had a lovely few days, yesterday I drove 50 kms one way to a quilting show, it was not very big - the town was smller - ha - but it was lovely to get out and drive mainly on the highway on my own.

I did spend a little money. One thread, two half meters of fabric and a fat quarter.

Today I have been sewing a quilt top for Ian's mom. I believe we are seeing her on the 3rd (I think). So slight panic stations - it is nearly done! This was not the plan, my plan was to not spend money and use my 'works in progress' to continue quilting - but I had to break out new material! Things never go to plan.

Courtney is having her 21st birthday on that weekend, so we are flying down.

Apparently Ian's ex, Melanie, has between 6 to 12 months to live - a reduction on her last estimate from the Dr. I can see Ian is shocked, well I am too, but he is very quiet. She is not yet 40 - so it is pretty bad, and as her youngest daughter is about 12, this is not good, nor expected.

Tim is driving his parents crazy - they are not getting enough sleep and last time I spoke to Coralie she was beside herself. Henk took him to the hospital the last time on his own - I never thought he could do it. So he is a lot tougher than I thought!

love to you all

xxxxx

A380 revisited

2009-09-14T14:08:00.003+02:00

Do you remember when we went to see the A380?

Well, my kids and I have a special relationship that no-one really understands; we have conversations that don’t include anyone else, and most cannot follow. Our own shorthand if you will.

I was reading Marmite Toasty, and realized she has the same relationship with her kids. You just get the giggles together, and egg each other on and land up in ‘disgrace’ – not in your head; you are having far too much fun to notice!

Back to the A380…. (I didn’t digress much, did I?)

We meet up, as arranged, and park in the car park that Ian suggests, remember he works at the airport so he knows the ropes.

Now as I cannot re-direct you to the photos and the original story, I have to give you a run down. Iblog has killed my blog.

Ian, myself, Coralie and Sean, and then Peter (Coralie’s ex’s dad) went.

So we arrive at the end of a queue – a long queue, we cannot see where we are supposed to get to – the security office is around a bend.

“Oh, no” says Coral, “This chap has been here since 1941, we are going to be ages!” The chap in front of us has a jeep tee shirt on, but only has 1941 printed on the back. The giggles start. Including the chap, who now is over hearing our conversation and smiling. But does not look at us.

So, we 3 get bored, good thing Ian and Peter were deep in conversation, as we were behaving like children – ha ha!

I start telling Coralie a story – another digression to explain – Coralie popped around to our house whilst she and Michael were breaking up with some dagga, dope, marijuana, whatever you call it in your home. She made up some smokes (I don't know what you call them, actually)– my first time ever – at 43 trying my first drugs. Well, it was amusing, but not like I am going to put myself out finding the stuff.

Anyway, Sean was not there, so I sent him an SMS, or Text message saying ‘we have dope’. He does not respond, I think what a shame (or stupid dude, I am not sure). Anyway when I do see him he says he thought I can’t spell and meant to say ‘we have dop’ (Afrikaans slang for alcoholic drink).

So of course we are roaring with laughter, waiting in the queue and the chap in front, and his lady friend are trying not to bust a gut listening to us.

Needless to say, once we had started to entertain the crowd, oh dear we are incorrigible; we were on a roll.

Sorry I cannot remember more of the conversation, but let me tell you, we should start a troupe – Sean is the funniest – he just cannot help but be funny.

And Marmite Toasty’s fun Saturday reminded me of that time, except I didn’t try to run over and give a guy a heart attack – ha! Maybe I can work that into my next blog account of ‘Things I Did Over the Summer’. And I can also say ‘Don’t make me angry – I have a tattoo’, not that I have one!!

Patch update - briefly

2009-09-11T10:07:00.004+02:00

Patch was euthanised yesterday, she had back end paralysis. It was on and off, but she kept falling over, which was distressing for all of us. She could not get up the steps to get into the house any longer.

She went peacefully and bravely. I talked her through it, and she just faded out. I told her how everyone loved her and how everyone would be sad. I sat with her for a while afterwards feeling her lush coat, and wishing we could have just given her a new body.

She was 15, and a beautiful soul.

I am missing her, I keep thinking about her and looking for her.

At the same time I am relived, I think this has been hanging over me for a long time; to have to make the decision.

(that photo is pretty old, she was a lot more white, and I haven't a clue what she is doing there)!

quicki

2009-09-06T11:15:00.003+02:00

I am a doff animal mom, I have forgotten to give my doggy water twice this last week, I should be fired from dog duty! I really feel guilty about it as it hasn't crossed my mind to check her bowl. I am happily buzzing about doing my own thing, mentally miles away!

Henk flew to Johannesburg to fetch a car. He arrived yesterday and leaves today, I think. They need the car so badly and have been offered a swap with a car they own here in Johannesburg that is actually in pieces. Sounds like it might be a bargain. Sean is meeting up with him today to see if it needs a quick service before driving back to Cape Town.

I have sent stuff to go to CT with Henk for them all.

Tim's professional photos! 22 Aug 2009

2009-08-29T11:26:00.004+02:00

Two hunks!

I love these dreamy eyes.

a smile!

Looking after our munchkin.

Don't these two look so happy?

These photos have been taken by Leandre Warren photography http://www.lwfotos.com/

She is very clever to have got a smile from Tim!

Thank you Leandre!

Gratuitous baby photos, cos I can!

2009-08-27T10:22:00.002+02:00

Timothy

2009-08-27T10:10:00.004+02:00

Tim went back to the hospital yesterday. He was 'quarrentined' again, in the Dr's room as some bright spark had taken their child in to the oncology unit suffering from swine flu - I ask you with tears in my baby blue peepers, what does that sign on the door say? - ' if you have a fever or temperature do not go beyond these doors'.

What with that and the chicken pox last month, I think there is a language barrier! (Sounds a bit like a barnyard). (And what do I keep saying about our major problem in SA - it is the language barrier - 11 official languages is ridiculous).

Anyway, Tim is on TB meds, and has to pick up some weight to start his treatment. 3 kilos sounds easy to you and me, but that is half his body weight.

So, things are going to quieten down and Tim needs to eat!

quilts at RCCH

2009-08-26T10:00:00.004+02:00

Here are some photos of some of the quilts at the Red Cross Children's Hospital. I love most of them.

This should be turned! This is lovely.

my fav! I just love this one.

Red and white

oops, a bit fuzzy!

I cannot turn this!

Boats!

Teddy alseep

Sean's finger.... no, not The Finger!

2009-08-25T15:49:00.003+02:00

Sean went yesterday to have the pin removed from his finger. I had no idea that he would be under anaesthetic for it!

He arrived home yesterday at supper time to tell me he had just eaten a lunch and a supper!

He wondered why they had given him so many pain killers; this morning he knew.

I told him to go in and leave early. He isn't home yet!

Tim photos!

2009-08-20T12:34:00.001+02:00

In the bath with my daddy.

Thumb sucking in hospital - too sweet! (And very loud)!

Showing the lump under his arm and his swollen abdomen, casused by his liver and speen being inflamed.

Edgar Cayce

2009-08-18T12:20:00.003+02:00

I have recently finished a book which touches on the work of Edgar Cayce. Pronounced Kay - cee. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgar_Cayce He was a chap who during the 20th century was psychic and diagnosed people's dis-ease / s (his word) whilst in a trance. Most of his cures involved a hot pack of Castor oil. As we all know Castor oil is an eliminating oil. He said that most of the problems of the human body always led back to a blockage or an elimination problem. He used Castor oil packs for just about everything; ankle sprains, sore throats, chest infections.

I read in the book that the author Jess Stern, used Castor oil to remove age spots on his hands. Now my hands are usually smooth, because of my cross stitching, but since trying the Castor oil, and just using it like a hand cream I have noticed a definite improvement. And this in only 2 days!

Tim updates will occure when happening, as there will be a lull in activity there, for just a while. He will have to pick up some weight. Lucky lad!

How could I forget?

2009-08-16T16:10:00.000+02:00

Forgot to mention, they have found two possible bone marrow donors for Tim. How could I forget?

Big excitement as that means they are one step closer to treatment.

xxxx

The latest...

2009-08-16T13:03:00.001+02:00

Whew what a journey!

I slept in the plane on the way down on Wed morning, then Coralie picked me up from the airport and we went directly to the hospital. We then found out that Coralie was expected to stay overnight with Tim, and she had not been told. So we worked out that she did not have to go back to Paarl to pick up clothing as I still had my suitcases with us. So we did manage. But then of course it was a mission to get Henk around as we had their car.

The one Doctor said it was okay for me to stay overnight too, and to use one of the day room beds. Unfortunately the staff did not convey that message to the night staff and they were not ‘best pleased’ as Sean would say. So the first night, they were okay, using the ward toilet and leaving the light on, which wasn’t too much of a hassle. The second night they switched on the ward lights to go to the loo. Pack of witches!! I worked out why; if things are quiet, they will nap on the beds!

Tim; on Wednesday they said he may get the operation on Thursday. At this stage it was still on that they would remove the whole lump. On Thursday they had 8 burn victims scheduled for surgery, so he was again bumped to Friday. (This whole thing was starting to feel ridiculous). Friday morning he went for his op at 7h30, and was back really quickly. It works out that they only took an aspiration of the lump to see what it was as it is too close to nerve and vein bundles to remove. So Coralie was pretty distraught.

Not to mention that the Dr’s had a misunderstanding between the two of them and there was an amount of tension there too. Words like “I throw my hands up!” and “I wash my hands of it”, were said – with appropriate actions (giggle), we threatened the calmer Dr with us as a work load if they did not come to an agreement as to what was going on. He is pretty busy and the kids love him. Anyway the best surgeon dealt with Tim, so that was all that mattered.

Anyway the lump is either BCG-osis, from having a BCG injection when he did not have the immune system to deal with the infections. Or it is leukaemia. If it is BCG-osis, he will have to go on TB treatment for 4 to six months. If is leukaemia, he still has to be at 9 kgs to commence treatment.

We all caught a cold from the one Sister – thanks for sharing!

So, I slept one night at Coralie’s, and straight to the airport on Saturday morning. Tim had a nightmare night on Friday/Sat night, this kids still aren’t over that. I had a 14-hour night last night, and I am still tired. I am sick of saying that!!

Happy birthday Jorja, 4 years old!!

Happy birthday Mat

2009-08-12T11:04:00.000+02:00

To Mathew, my brother, he is 40 today.

He was born just after the lunar landing. I watched the lunar landing, with my mom. She must have been hugely pregnant with Mat, but I don't remember that; I just remember some very grainy footage of people bouncing around the moon. I was pretty lucky as I had woken up in the night and joined my mom in the lounge - I would have not seen it other wise as it was a 'middle of the night' thing in the UK.

Mat, enjoy this one! Now life gets even better, I promise! I hope you get 40 presents!

xxxxxxxx

more to say...

2009-08-09T10:59:00.002+02:00

I am flying down to CT on Wednesday morning early.

Monday is a holiday, Wimmins Day. (That is howyou pronounce Women, South Africans). They call it Woman's Day, but it is Women's Day.

Tuesday I work.

Wednesday I fly and take Tim to the hospital. Coralie is still in training.

I am not sure how things will work out whilst we are there. What with the kids working 60 kms from home.

I will let you know.

a message from Coralie

2009-08-07T09:41:00.002+02:00

"I just Dr Desai to now regarding Tim's lump. Tim needs to go in on Wednesday and he will be staying overnight and having the procedure on Thursday. Depending on how it goes on Thursday he might have to stay overnight again. Feels like a huge mission, but she said coz it’s a government hospital things don’t work as quickly as a private hospital would. They cant do it this week coz they got chicken pox in the ward. That makes 3 days I won't be able to go to
work!!!!!!!"

I have offered to fly down, let's see what happens.

Poor, poor Coralie, this is her first week back at work, and now this! She is still in training.

ready to scream?

2009-08-04T08:32:00.000+02:00

Coralie has more problems, her nanny for Tim walked out - Coralie's first day back at work. Flipping cow, she gave up three jobs to go to Coralie, she was getting R3000 - plus minus $300 a month - a large salary for a maid here. And when Coralie gets back to work drops her! When you consider the little guy moans all the time, he has flu like symptoms all the time, a side effect of the L, it must be so hard for anyone to look after him. But really, she knew what to expect, she had been with them over 2 weeks already. I think she thought it would be a breeze as it was only a nanny posistion and no cleaning required. And Coralie was telling her to only get in at 9, now Coralie has started work she needs to be there 6h30, so C can get to work. Part of their agreement; but now C is stuck. I don't know what she is to do.

back home

2009-08-03T09:52:00.004+02:00

With Granny

with Nicole

family shot, no, I am not going to smile!!

yum, yum!

I have got back, but I am so tired, I think I have had too much sleep the last 24 hours. I slept on the plane, all the way, about 2 hours and then went to bed REALLY early, about six thirty!

I feel fuzzy around the edges.

I have not yet started work, and I have been here nearly 2 hours already.

I have some lovely shots of Tim, on my cell phone, and I do not know how to down load them to my computer. He is a lovely little chap, but he cries weakly all the time. He is easily distracted, but that too is wearing.

I told him all kinds of stories about all kinds of things, and sent him off to sleep – see, I am boring! But he looked at my face the whole time. He loves his hair being fluffed around, too sweet! And he loves nappy changes, now he is all fresh! Coralie gives him special attention when he has a nappy change, she rubs cream on him, and chats to him and he loves that time.

He has a most swollen stomach, his liver and pancreas are both swollen and are causing him to look pretty fat, but he is not. He has a large growth bigger than a golf ball under his one arm. The Drs are monitoring that.

The tissue typing will take 6 weeks, then he will be on a donor list.

more stuff.......

2009-07-30T11:24:00.002+02:00

Happy Birthday Coralie - 28 - you deserve all you want and more this year.

Tim was in the hospital yesterday, they were discussing mortality rates with Coralie and Henk. Not good.

Tim is on pills to bring down a swelling / growth under his arm, if it does not go down they will operate to remove it, no biopsy.

He has the bone marrow taken to check his tissue type, it will take 6 weeks to have the results. Then to see if there is a match.

I have a headache of note, like a migraine crossed with a hangover – how lovely. And as I cried – howled – myself to sleep last night, I look divine this morning. I have red eyes, puffy eyes and I haven’t put on any make up whatsoever, so I look revolting. Please don’t come to visit!

Ian has been wonderful, and do keep in mind he has just had surgery himself, so is not feeling 100%. So he gets an award from me.

Sean’s fingers are healing, he is to go to the surgeon for his post op visit today, we will see how that goes later.

Geyser replaced; Monday.

I fly out tomorrow at some insanely early hour to CT, wish me luck that the plane leaves on time, as Tim is not supposed to be in crowded areas. (Germs). I will sleep on the plane, it is so boring I give myself neck jerks falling asleep and jerking awake all the time.

I don’t want to leave my two guys here – literally in stitches, but I paid for this flight in January – AGES ago!

But I will see my other loved ones.

I will be back at work on Monday, chat then?

Just had a text message, my flight has been cancelled and now I leave even earlier! 6.05am!! Gross!!

wasted weekend

2009-07-27T10:38:00.002+02:00

Although Ian did not work, it was a waste. He did a lot of work around the house on Sat, painted the two walls, and just kept on going like the battery bunny. But the afternoon was a bust - motor racing on TV, and that is not my fav, I am starting to get pretty intolerant of it, actually.

And guess what was on TV on Sunday? Motor racing. Admitted we would have gone out for lunch, but the stupid geyser has broken, this will be the third geyser in this house so far. The first one was not the one we ordered, and after about 18 months was changed, then the thermostat on that one went, and now, the geyser. So, let's hope no. 3 is the one, the keeper!

Last week was pretty 'exciting' - shit I am so sick of exciting. Wed, me, mammogram - results fine. Wed, Sean, accident at work, two crushed pinkies, 6 stitches and lots of blood. Wed, Ian, Dr - a surgeon actually to have a growth on his 'pip' (head) removed (this scheduled for Tues 28th). Thursday, Sean hospital to have crushed tendon fixed and a pin inserted in the tip of the finger.

I went to the hospital and almost finished some stitching, Saturday it was quilted up to make another wall hanging for the guest loo - it is STILL echoey in there! You can hear every movement. Yeah picture later, the batteries are out of the camera, for some reason.

Remember the 'Trip around the World' wall quilt I finished? It is at the shop, they asked could they borrow it!

Anyway too much excitement all at once. Need a lie down - ha, like I am going to get one!

Quote of the week 'mom can you help me?' 'of course' ' can you put some hair gel in for me' ' sure'
'mom, you doing it like a girl!'

cold, cold...

2009-07-21T09:59:00.003+02:00

I am so cold, and I cannot work out why. I have a vest, a thickish top on, a body warmer and a thick tracksuit zip up on, and I am cold. On the bottom I have thick sox, clogs, and (don't tell anyone), leg warmers on under my jeans. My hands are fozen, my legs are cold, and my feet, cold.

Next stop hot water bottles and blankets, but I am at work, do you think that will go down well? Start a new fashion trend?

The thing is, it is lovely outside (probably 18 degrees C); this office however is under the factory roof, so it is chilly. The others have gas heaters, and I do not as the one near me is broken.

Good thing I do not have to work tomorrow.

But I have a mammogram sheduled for tomorrow - yuck!

Please send positive thoughts to Katie, she and her husband have Swine Flu.

I feel like I am waiting...

2009-07-20T11:49:00.002+02:00

I feel like I am just waiting for news all the time.

Timothy is doing well according to a long phone call this morning. He has some new Panado pain killer, apparently this one tastes better, it is called 'Strawberry Milkshake' and T thinks this is more acceptable.

I go down on the 31 st July, I cannot wait to see my family in the Cape. I have already most of the stuff sorted to take with me.

For some reason I thought I was leaving this Friday morning, no, it is the next Friday morning! As Homer would say 'Doh!'.

Clearly I am not thinking straight.

Sorry

2009-07-14T11:45:00.002+02:00

Sorry I have not been around, work has had a server breakdown for the last 2 weeks and my internet connection has also gone in to hospital. Urgh.

I am pretty low, and I am to get some medication bumped up, I think it is time.....

I will be back and bouncing soon, I am sure.

news

2009-07-01T11:29:00.003+02:00

My fab daughter and my fab grandson!

Okay, so here is the news.

Timothy has Juvenile Chronic Leukaemia.

He is to go back to his paed to have his platelets monitored and a check on his spleen size.

On the 29th July 2009 he is to go back to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital oncology department where he will be tissue typed and put on the national donors list for a match.

They are all positive regarding treatment; so let’s keep that vibe going.

Yeah, I feel a bit sucker punched right now.

Not great news

2009-06-25T12:09:00.001+02:00

Well, I went to CT to see Coralie and Tim, Henk stayed at home.

We took Tim to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital Tuesday for a bone marrow test to check for leukaemia. It was a very long day and Tim was wiped out when we left, he had a hole in his bum, and pelvis through which they had taken the bone marrow and got pretty sore after we got home.

He passed out in the car on the way home – he was so punchy from the drugs, poor baby. He had two grannies, one an Ouma, one a Granny, a god-mother, an uncle, and his parents to look after him, so he was spoiled for choice!

We left at 7am and got home 18h30. It was a long, wet windy and horrible-traffic-day.

Anyway real results are due in a week, but he is a VERY sick baby. I looked up on Google Juvenile Chronic Leukaemia, and there is no good news there.

I am in hiding until results come in, you understand

Challenge for South Africans.

2009-06-20T08:29:00.002+02:00

If you know of Bosom Buddies (a charity very close to my heart), great; if not please go over and read about Mel and her fantastic work with truly underprivileged South African girls and ladies, who give birth sometimes in the most terrible circumstances right here in SA.

She provides the babies and the mommies with a bag with goodies in, including baby clothes, nappies, sanitary pads, blankets and other goodies.

She is having a pretty bad time right now with a clothing shortage.

1) Do you have or do you know of anyone who has second hand gently used 0-3 month old baby clothes that you can donate to her charity? (Yes, Tim’s clothes are going here).

2) Here is the challenge – Ackermans has GREAT baby gear. Their sale is in July. I challenge you to open an account, use the vouchers – BARGAIN, and bring your account up to R600. This will mean that you will pay off the account in 6 months at R100 a month. Can you truly say you cannot afford that?

She mainly wants baby gros and vests. Why not go in the first day of the sale and ‘wipe out’ the 0-3 month stock?

I plan to, will you join me?

a present!!

2009-06-18T08:12:00.002+02:00

I was incredibly lucky to receive a present from Barbara for her birthday draw - yes that is a bit odd when you think about it, but how fortuitous for me! I received a fabulous pocket - Barbara's stitching is exquisite! - and tiny! - it is really a fine fabric, everyone! I have unfortuately left behind the details (typical me). So I cannot tell you any details (I am such a flake).

And....(drum roll) a tee shirt for Tim, stitched by Barbara as well!

I am so touched, Barbara thank you so much. I am thoroughly spoiled!

What is in here?

Isn't that the most gorgeous present?

bye, bye cell phone!

2009-06-18T08:04:00.002+02:00

My cell phone was stolen from me Tuesday (a public holiday here) – what a bummer. I was at the good factory shop in Benoni and felt I was bumped, but when I gave a hard stare towards the only customer in the area, I noticed she had a little boy. He was about three and kept bumping his head on my handbag. Huh, when I got back to the car my phone was gone. So all my good pictures of Tim and Josh are gone, as well as all my contact numbers. So EVERYONE, please send me a mail with your details on it so I can enter them into my old cell phone – thank you!!

I have been so lucky up until now with cell phones, too!

Edited to add: I have my old number back now, but I still need your numbers.

hillarious, I suppose it is in the translation!

2009-06-15T10:19:00.000+02:00

Teachers should not inflict pain - Mokonyane
Independent Online - ‎2 hours ago‎
By Angelique Serrao

Premier Nomvula Mokonyane has cautioned striking Sadtu teachers in Soweto that if any teacher was caught striking on Wednesday, they would be arrested.

finally car pictures!

2009-06-12T12:03:00.006+02:00

Aha, a bit of sunshine and the cars are still wet!!

So here we are – the old car and the new car.

Don’t worry about the registration plates; they will be changed soon, as we are in a different province, so no-one will be able to stalk me!

Do you fancy that they are almost the exact colour – how fab, as the gold really does not show the dirt!

P.S, did you spot the mistake in Brian’s quilt? It is pretty obvious – tip, it is in the top left hand corner.

news and views

2009-06-11T09:02:00.003+02:00

Okay, I am to show you a picture of my newer car, but I cannot it has not stopped raining in days!! (Daze) We are not used to winter rain, so it is cold, damp and depressing weather. I am pleased I am not working during these type of weather days.

Anyway my new car already has new shocks, Ian’s dad Brian said he thinks he was driving the car when he hit a pothole. The one shock was really pulpy. So Ian changed both front shocks – isn’t he a handy guy? He has bought a bee sting aerial, and the little knob that releases the front seat was missing and he has replaced that. Next up is the fuel line between the filler cap and the tank has perished, Ian will pick it up today – it was on order and thereafter a radio. It is a great little car, and for some reason I was so apprehensive about it.

History of the car is that Ian’s parent’s neighbour owned it and she is now 91. She has had the car since new (2003), and it has 15 000 kms on the clock. Ian’s dad has been driving the old lady around in her car for a few years now as she was not capable of driving any longer. The lady has moved from their retirement village and her children had made the decision to sell the car and gave Brian first refusal.

Anyway, to show you a picture; the quilt I made Brian.

Yesterday Ian took the day off work and I really enjoyed my time with him. It is amazing how attached I am to the guy!! ;-)))

2009-06-09T10:43:00.002+02:00

This is Josh's quilt, it is backed with more Beatrix Potter fabric, in blue and white.

My sister very generously bought the fabric, anyone who knows will know that is very expensive because of the copyright issues.

So, I bought the batting and the cream for the border and binding.

I am really chuffed with it. I know Courtney will love it too. She is pretty excited about it!

Update

2009-06-08T10:40:00.000+02:00

I HAVE A NEW CAR, AND I FINISHED A QUILT. NOW, BECAUSE THE BATTERIES WERE FLAT, I HAVEN'T TAKEN A PHOTO OF EITHER. SO, YOU VOTE, WHAT DO YOU WANT TO SEE FIRST? THE QUILT, OR THE CAR?

THEN CHECK BACK TOMORROW!

Baby

2009-06-03T09:26:00.001+02:00