Lest We Forget ...

I saw this picture on Facebook today and I thought it was pretty awesome. I love being from New Zealand. We moved here when I was 15, and since I'm currently sitting at the ripe old age of 30, I have now spent half my life here in Australia. Wellington will always have a special place in my heart though. Sometimes (especially when we go there for holidays) I contemplate moving back, but Australia has so much more opportunities and I also doubt that Rick would ever move. And I'm not going anywhere without him!!

Anyway, the title of this post is 'Lest We Forget', and I must admit I've always been kinda useless with commemorating Anzac day. Today unfortunately was no different, but I saw this picture on Facebook and it made me think I really should take my boys to the dawn ceremony next year. So that's another goal to add to many others!

We had a good day though - we took the boys to Tik Toks for a play with their cousins. I was being lazy and couldn't be bothered taking pics, but right as we left I got a couple. Now we're at home drinking milo and watching tv (I think this might seriously be my boringest post!!)... I just made Cassius his third milo to which he said 'thank you mum. You're the best mum, it's delicious' - That little comment was the highlight of my day xx

Just a quick note ...

My sister is coming today!! There really is nothing like sisters, and now that my sister (Jaslyn) is a mother (her son Max Owen McQueen is just over a month old) we have shopping and even more to do. Exciting times ahead! Here's a picture of Jaslyn, Justine and I in Wellington last April for Kerrin and Stephanie's wedding. I really should be putting up current pics, but I like to remember myself when I was 'slightly'smaller :)

The Book of 'Morgan' ...

When I woke up this Sabbath Morning I was feeling kind of deflated. I knew last night that the boys and I wouldn't be going to church, and given I have missed the last three weeks of church I really was in need of a 'spiritual boost'. So as the boys lay beside me sleeping (Rick was already at his meetings when I woke), I decided just because we can't go to church - doesn't mean church can't come to us! So I got out my iPad (man I love this thing!), and looked over the nursery and primary manual for ideas. I came up with a lesson plan, and must admit I was feeling kinda proud of myself at this point (this would soon change!).

My little men woke shortly after, and we had breakfast in bed (I figured my room already needed a vacuum so what difference would a few more crumbs make right?). We went into their room, and I told them we were going to learn about Jesus since we wouldn't be going to church. Well, to put it simply, my boys weren't really interested. Phoenix doesn't seem to comprehend that Jesus is his 'special' brother. He insists (quite forcibly) that his only brothers are Cassius and Kingston. My great idea to use the iPad to show different pictures also meant that they now wanted to play games instead, and started arguing over what songs to sing. I was at the point of giving up when I saw The Book of Mormon nearby. I asked the boys 'what do we call this book?' and Cassius said 'we don't know that book mum' (in my defense, when I usually talk about the scriptures to the boys it's using my triple combination not a single book - haha who am I kidding!). Anyway, I explained to them slowly that it was The. Book. of. Mormon. And what response did I get?

Cassius said 'The Book of Morgan mum?'

Phoenix said 'that's uncle Morgans book mum?'

I had to laugh - that memory alone made the morning events all worth it xx

An Uneventful Week ...

So it's been another eventful week! Ok not really, I'm just trying to sound interesting. Most of the week has been spent at home as whilst I finally appear to be beating this cold, my poor little Kingston has caught hand, foot and mouth disease. I should be grateful though - Imagine if all my boys had it! My camera is always close by though, and I've managed to 'capture' a few memories for the week :)

We went to mums on Tuesday so I could work, and the boys always look forward to going to 'grandma's house'. We arrived to a package for my Phoenix (from Aunty Justine) who was more then excited to be opening another present! It was a dinosaur origami book so no doubt Phoenix loved it! I had to take it off him though as I could see he was soon going to rip it, and I promised him Dad would show him how to cut the dinosaurs later (the book is still hidden in the kitchen though!). My sister Justine has been on her mission now for about 10 months, we miss her all the time, but I will write more about that in another post!

As my work day progressed, I walked out of the office to find Cassius with no t-shirt on. I was about to ask him where his top was, however on closer inspection realized the top was really the least of my concerns! See the picture to the right for details :) I suppose I should be happy he had tried to dress himself though - that boy will find any excuse to get out of getting dressed!

One more 'event' from the week: So I have been putting off getting things ready for baby. Actually maybe 'putting off' are the wrong words - I've really just been lazy. I had a little scare the other day though, I woke up to quite consistent cramping (every 5 minutes), although they were only lasting about 30 seconds so I knew much worse was to come if this really was labor! It blew over after about half an hour and a nice bath (oh how I love my baths when pregnant!), but it did make me realize I need to start preparing! So I got my storage container out of the garage for 00000 and 0000 baby clothing (note that this container wasn't touched for my fatty Kingston), and I re-washed and ironed everything. Considering this is my fourth baby in as many years, I do have quite a bit of clothing built up, but I can't help but feel the poor child hasn't even been born yet and is already getting neglected! The clothes are so tiny though and I find myself getting more and more excited as the day get closer. That excitement is quickly turned to fear when I remember labor though :|

Till next time xx

The Independent Child ...

I know as a mother it's important to teach our children independence, to teach them to do things themselves. But I often have to remind myself of this, as sometimes (actually alot of times really) independence equates with a whole lot of mess!

Such was the case this morning at breakfast. Kingston has now decided he would like to feed himself and doesn't want anyone to help him. The pictures tell it all :) xx

A Small Gesture ...

 

I was remembering today something that happened a few weeks ago. It was little, somewhat insignificant, but a reminder to me why I love the man at my side (anyone feel like gagging?)

I'd complained to my husband earlier one day about the set up/closing down process in my class at Institute. Being heavily pregnant and with the air conditioner out of order, the stacking away of chairs and tables, manuals etc was somewhat of a laborious task. That night, as my class was coming to an end, in walked Rick. I was unsure why he was there, wondering if he had a meeting I'd forgotten about. When the class ended, I walked over and asked him what he was doing at the chapel? He responded 'I came to help you pack up'.
We don't have a perfect life, but we do have a good life, and for that I am truely grateful xx

Easter Egg Madness ...

This post is a little late given Easter was almost two weeks ago, but I am in catch up mode since I am new to blogging!!

These pics were taken when the boys and I went to the Easter Egg Hunt for our Ward Playgroup. There wasn't many of us there, but that just meant more chocolate for the kiddies! I seem to always miss playgroup with something always being on, but I am greatful our wonderful Relief Society still continue to extend me an invitation!

It was a great morning, held at Plough and Harrow Park. The kids didn't want to leave which was fine by me, as one of my good friends Pina is now in our ward and it gave us time to chat away about the woes joys of motherhood :P They're her twins in the picture - aren't they delicious! Almost makes me want to have a pair! But then I remember its hard enough for me to handle one :P

Happy Easter Everyone ... better late then never right?? xx

Whats in a Name?

I know if Rick was to read this post he would start by asking me if I thought I was a poet? Lol but although I love Romeo and Juliet (where this quote is found as Juliet ponders the importance of Romeo being a Montague) I have to disagree - I think names are VERY important!!

And so with this in mind we have tried to give all our boys a 'unique' name - not too unique that it's weird, but unique enough that they're not going to have another 10 kids in their school with the same name. Also, of equal importance - each is given a Tongan or Samoan middle name - so they remember their culture. And so we have Cassius Konilati (after the great Mohammed Ali and Ricks dad), Phoenix Simi (after River/Joaquin Phoenix and my wonderful grandfather), and Kingston Iakopo (Kingston I just liked the name after seeing Gwen Stefani named her son that lol, and Iakopo after Jacob (but in Samoan).

Which brings me to my current dilemma, what to name our next one? I have the middle name already - Taniela (after Ricks little brother Daniel), but I am stuck on the first! I was hoping for McCaw (named after the amazing Richie McCaw, captain of the Mighty All Blacks) but alas seeing as Rick is very much a Wallaby Supporter, I have been (kindly) told that it's not going to happen. I'm still going to try after I deliver though, maybe my wonderful husband will feel sorry for me and let me have it! I do doubt it though - Rick is usually very laid back about a lot of things so for him to say no, means its important to him. That won't stop me from trying though ha ha. I have been thinking of Memphis but I don't LOVE the name, but maybe it will grow on me in the next few weeks. All the other names I have are ok but nothing that Is really sticking out, so I guess we will see what happens!

If only I was due to have a girl - I have a list of names ready for when she arrives xoxo

My Three Little Tongans ...

Cassius AKA 'Cass' and 'Cassie' is the eldest of our troop at 4 years olds and 2 months. He is currently obsessed with weapons (he has a shield and ax type thing) that he wakes up asking for, and wants to take everywhere. I don't usually mind but when it comes to day care etc I make him leave it at home as I don't trust that he won't hit some poor kid! Speaking of daycare, he has never liked it and I am beginning to wonder if he ever will! I contemplated taking him out but considering he will start primary school next year figured he really needs to get use to it. Him and Phoenix go every Thursday and Friday, but they have a lot of 'holidays' lol. This picture of him was taken of Sunday as he went to church (note the appearance of his weapons in the pic lol ... I always love when he wears his Tupenu too :)

Anyway I can feel the boringness of this post ha ha... But back to Cassius. He has always been our 'kind' son. Sharing and giving to others is no problem for him. When he was a baby he use to open his hands and spread his fingers. Ricks mum would say that that is a sign that he will 'share'. We laughed it off but it appears to be true! Could the Tongan myths be true? Ha ha ... His vocabulary is always interesting, he currently likes to accompany any questions with 'are you sure? Are you sure about that?' ... I'm trying to think of some of the other things he has said over the years but my mind is blank! His prayers are always interesting too. When its a school day, he blesses himself to go to 'grandma's or uncle dums', and I remember one night a few months ago we were sitting down for dinner and he declared that he wanted 'pizza!!'. I told him sorry mate but not tonight, but can you please say the prayer. He then said the prayer along these lines 'Dear Heavenly Father, please bless us to have pizza' ... and so, being the lovely mother that I am, I made him some pizza. Lucky for me his definition of a pizza is pita bread for abit of cheese - so really it wasnt that hard a task! Nice to know my boy already knows that if you ask the Lord - he will provide :)

On to Phoenix AKA 'Fith' (that's what Cass would call him and the name has stuck) who just turned three last week. We often call him the weirdo child lol, as he really does just do things differently at times! He hates wearing pants and long sleeved tops, claiming 'I can't wear that mum, it's not my favorite!' So dressing him for church is fun and I am always limited, although he has improved - about 6 months ago not only would he have to wear shorts, but they had to be jean shorts ha ha. Last week Aunty Moe came back from Fiji and got me some 'fob skirts' for the boys. I tried to get Phoenix to wear it but it was quite a dramatic scene where he cried and wanted it off straight away. Oh well I guess there are worse things in life, but I was very much looking forward to all three of my boys in them :(

He is such a handsome boy though (bias much?) but seems to pick up any disease he gets exposed to. Today he is currently covered in lumps from a misquito that attacked him the other day :( 

He loves dinosaurs, and will talk to his dinosaurs all day and try and feed them etc. A few weeks ago he took the leaves apart from some of mums plants cos he said the dinosaurs were hungry and he wanted to feed them lol. We put the leaves back and I'm hoping mum hasn't noticed lol. On another occasion he had the iphone (which he uses to watch videos of dinosaurs on youTube) and he was right next to the trees. I went closer to see what he was doing - he was trying to feed the dinosaurs leaves through the phone ha ha. Oh and he's also my cleaner! I'll ask him and Cassius to pick up a mess they have made, and Cass will pick a few things and claim to have cleaned it, but Phoenix will try and get every drop!  It's funny how even at that age my children have very different definitions of what 'clean' is :)

And last but not least (for a few more weeks anyway), there's Kingston AKA 'Kingston brother'. When he was born, we would often say to Cass and Phoenix 'look its your brother', 'do you love your brother?' etc. For some reason, the word brother has stuck and now he is called  our 'Kingston brother'. He will be 2 in September, and he's a little fatty and has quite a stocky build (will definitely be a forward if that is his chosen sport). He has acquired a love for golf like his father, and will sit practicing his swing many times a day! Let's hope he follows Tiger Woods in the skills department - but not the extracurricular stuff!

He loves the camera and so will often appear in the majority of the pics I take! Unlike his brothers who never smile, this boy looks at the camera all day! These pics were taken of him the Sunday that just passed, and was his first time in his tupenu. Doesnt he look great! He makes me laugh, as he's quite sneaky and somewhat of a trouble maker at times! He's a little obsessed with the vacuum cleaner too - lets hope that obsession lasts! Everyone loves Kingston though, even as a baby he was always just a very happy boy. He is always laughing (as you can see in his pic with dad from the other night), and people just love him. Lately he has been displaying abit of a temper though - let's hope that didn't come from me (but who am I kidding lol).

Ok I'm getting tired, but that's a little about my little Tongans at this point in time ... No doubt things will change as the year goes on but its interesting how my three boys have such different personalities xx

Phoenix's Third Birthday ...

On Thursday we celebrated Phoenix's third birthday. I had been sick the days prior and hadnt planned much, but we always like to do something for them even if its just going to the movies etc. Lucky my boys have brothers and cousins so last minute things can still be exciting as they will always have a friend with them. We initially contemplated going to the Easter Show, but after looking at the prices and looking at the ages of our boys, Rick and I thought we would save money and look for a cheaper option. As Rick pointed out, they would have just as much fun at a park and it would cost us nothing. So I googled animal farms in NSW and found we had one only about 10 mins from our house Calmsley Hill City Farm. We told Rube and Gum (Ricks sister and brother), and so automatically we had a total of 9 kids going (the beauty of being fob is you're never short on cousins, and it was only the under 8s that came ha ha). The Ah Mus also came and brought along little Hayzehn making it a total of 10!

We arrived about 1030am after a 'slightly' stressful morning. I left the keys at mums the night before and didnt realise until I went to pack the boys!! Rube went and got them for me so that was lucky. It was only Rube and I with the kids at first and so it was 'fun'. They really did enjoy it though and absolutely loved all the animals. They got to milk a cow, see a dog show (chasing sheep), a sheep shearing show, go on a tractor ride, feed the animals etc etc. And most importantly - it was cheap! 

We left after two sometime, and my almost 35 week pregnant self was exhausted!! Alas there was still food to prepare and shopping to do, so no rest for me. We dropped the boys at Rubes for when Rick finished work, and Rube, Lauren and I jetted off to Westfields to buy some presents and get the last minute food. Phoenix was easy to buy for - he is absolutely obsessed with dinosaurs! Of course I had to divert to Cotton On when I saw that they had a 30% off sale though! We got lots of lollies for the kids aswell and a pinata etc, and we were ready to head home for the little party and BBQ.

All is all for a last minute thing it really was a lovely day. I am lucky to have such helpful sisters/brothers inlaws who are always willing to do more then anything for my boys! The kids loved it, Phoenix especially loved it ... and I was absolutely HAMMERED by the end of the night! All signs of a great day xx 

If you haven't guessed from the pictures, my Phoenix really does love Dinosaurs! xx

Sundays ...

Sometimes I find myself looking forward to the Sabbath in part cos it means I can get some pics of my boys in their church clothes (I told you my life is pretty much all about them!) ... These pics were taken of the boys over the last month or two. I've been told that my boys are very 'tongan'. Translation = they're naughty. I can get abit defensive when people make comments like that but I guess when I sit back and think about it - it's true! They are definitely very active and the few times we have lasted in the chapel throughout the whole of sacrament (I can actually only think of one occasion when we did!) have been because they're aunties were there :)

The top pic was taken at Macarthur chapel when we were there for the blessing of beautiful Alaska. We lasted about half the time in there which sadly I was quite proud of :)

We recently got some bags for the boys with their names on them which they love them! And they make it exciting for them to go to church and carry their special bags :) Phoenix's bag has a dinosaur on it so he is extra obsessed, Cassius has some Monkeys on his and he carrys his fruit in it (he loves his fruit that boy - definitely doesnt get that from me!) And then there's Kingston - well he just carrys his bag and likes to say 'ta ta' to us like he's off on a holiday or something!

Never a dull (or quiet) day in our house fill of three (soon to be four) little tongans ... 

A few pics of late ...

One of the main reasons I wanted to blog was my current obsession with photos ... I have facebook and Instagram but they are very 'public' and dont usually allow you to elaborate on the 'story' behind the picture. So here are a few pics of late, and right now I cant be bothered elaborating too much, but I wanted them on here before I forget :)

So the pic to my left was just taken in the course of a normal day about a week or so ago. My boys are a little too obsessed with the iphone, so much so that they even take it to the toilet. It can be funny at times, but I am now resorting to hiding the ipad/iphones so that they do something else. I dont want my boys to be computer freaks!

Now for the picture to my right ... I was baking one Sunday about a fortnight ago, just some chocolate and macadamia biscuits. Biscuits were put in the oven, timer set to 20 mins and I went upstairs to chat to Rick. On hearing the timer go off I went downstairs to discover some 'burnt offerings'. My wonderful Kingston has a habit of changing the temperature of the oven, and my oven that had been set to 170 was changed to 250!! Ah the joy of children - never a dull day in our house. Kingston was lucky mum was in a good mood!!

So now for another pic ... this pic was taken about three weeks ago at the barber - half way through the cut. Morgan had been growing an afro and Dad was not amused lol. It got to the point where he was told if he didnt cut it by the following Monday, Dad would cut it in his sleep ha ha. You dont mess with my Dad when hes angry - so Morgan joined me at the barber that week when my boys were getting their cuts :) I remember Kerrin saying once that there's only one person that still scares him in this world - Dad!! Lol so true :)

Ok that's all I can be bothered writing for now ... most of my other pics are usually just filled with my little boys - can't seem to take enough pics of them :)

Let the blogging begin ...

I have failed at many an attempt to keep a record of our lives with our boys. Although I kept a journal in my youth, as I reflected on them in latter years I was somewhat embarrassed at how self absorbed and dramatic I was! I quickly resolved that any future diaries would be filled with fabulous memories that my little ones could read in latter years. Well I have tried keeping a normal hand written diary, tried various apps on my iPhone/iPad, but am yet to find one that has a format I like (especially since I have a new found love for photos!) ... And that my friends is why I have now decided to blog! In many ways it will just be a record of our lives - Boring to many, but sentimental to me!!