An Australian Housewife

Ladies, What Do Your Clothes Say About You?

2012-01-21T22:58:00.001+11:00

I'm sure we can ALL learn something from this video!

But lest you feel like you do not need to OR just do not want to...then here is a thought.

"Please do not assume that you are sufficently mature in heart, or modest in dress. And please avoid the temptation to busy yourselves applying this message to someone else..." An excerpt

It is well-worth listening to... and I suggest you listen for the whole 15 minutes! :-)

Encouraging Reads

2012-01-21T22:36:00.000+11:00

:: Stingy Out Gets Stingy In ::

Posted on the 'Femima' blog, I read this a couple of weeks ago; and found it challenging. The writer gives a few thoughts on

"How can we maintain a cheerful, calm, happy, giving attitude when we certainly don’t feel like it?"

Basically...

" When you give freely, you receive fully.

Stingy out gets stingy in."

:: Masking Anger as Justice ::

Another post from Femima. Once again it is a challenging one. It focuses on whether the discipline of our children is being applied in a God-glorifying way, or in an angry way that we describe as 'justice'. It is summarised well by this paragraph...

"The wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. If you are an angry parent, you will not produce righteousness in your children . . . even if all your anger is directed at sin. The wrath of man DOES NOT produce the righteousness of God."

And another excerpt...

"We like to pretend that our anger is righteous, and that we’re in this for justice and truth. But as a matter of fact we’re just being selfish little punks when we lose our temper at our children."

:: A Bible Portrait of Christian Motherhood ::

A lovely article by J.R. Miller on what true Christian motherhood looks like. He uses Hannah, from the Bible, as an example. Many encouraging thoughts to ponder.

"The great need of this age, is mothers who will live with their own children, and throw over their tender lives all the mighty power of their own rich, warm, loving natures. If we can have a generation of Hannahs, we shall then have a generation of Samuels growing up under their wise, devoted nurture."

{All pictures taken from Pinterest}

Happy New Year

2012-01-08T21:28:00.003+11:00

Happy New Year, friends! Yes, I am back, after 6 weeks of non-blogging. It wasn't intentional - just a busy season of the year. :-) These are some of the things we enjoyed doing...

the boys and I loved having Joel around for 10 whole days!
family days with both sides of the family and scrummy meals
working days at home, getting things done that we just hadn't had time for earlier
taking the boys to a children's pool and watching their happy faces as they splashed and played
having an hour long ferry ride on Lake Burley Griffin, just the ~~four~~ five of us on New Year's eve
lots of times at the play park...watching Joshua & Jonathan climb up, slide down :-)
having time to read, something I hadn't done for awhile
drives on dirt roads

This year, I began a 100 Day Calendar (by Ann Voskamp), in which you choose 3 things you want to do daily; and then commit to doing those 3 things each day for 100 days! The purpose of this is to create good habits, by diligently committing to these choices. As one of my choices, I committed to a Quiet-Time daily. By this I mean a dedicated time to be alone with the Lord. Not just a hurried reading and a quick prayer; but enough time to really be still before God. Towards the end of last year, I found that I would be reading, and quickly praying; but often it was in the lounge room with little boys climbing all around, or needing supervision. I found I wasn't diligently setting aside time alone to just spend with the Lord. It can be so easy with little children around to excuse oneself. When they are finally in bed after lunch or at night, the self part of me cries out, 'I'd like to do this, and that while they are asleep; and I will pray later' which then can easily never happen. Even though it has been just 8 days, I have found anew, just how beautiful it is to speak with the Lord without being interrupted! I aim to have my Quiet-Time while the boys have their afternoon sleep. Often they are nearly awake by the time I am finished and I may not have other things done; but my heart is at peace and refreshed. If for some reason, it doesn't happen after lunch; I am learning to make sure it still happens at some point each day!

Have you decided to strengthen your walk with the Lord in 2012? In what ways are YOU seeking to make this happen? Please do share some tips with us all!

Joel, my darling man, is enjoying his work at council as Business Services Coordinator. It keeps him very busy; but with good working hours and every second Friday off - it's not exactly stressful. I am still so grateful to have him come home for lunch each day. It's such a blessing. :: Joel is such a wonderful husband...actually there is none better! He is an excellent daddy to his boys, as well. :: At the moment he is enjoying reading through a Bible plan called 'Major People'. It focuses on the lives of different biblical men; and takes several days to cover the chapters written specifically about each man. For example he is studying Joseph's life, presently. He then has chosen to read Calvin and other commentators, to gain deeper insight. :: Joel recently finished waterproofing our garden shed. After putting the shed up, we found it was leaking quite badly underneath the walls. It took him several days to completely seal it and test it. But now it is waterproofed, which is a relief. And we have been able to move things into storage there; and organise the house a little better.

Joshua began a chore-chart this year. A very simple one, with simple tasks - using pictures to explain what he needs to do. It has been nice to see him follow it along and get excited. He especially likes the end of the day when he gets to choose a sticker to place on his chore-chart calendar! Joshua will be 3 years old in March, and he is a real delight. He is starting to heed our instructions quickly, and think carefully about what he is doing. Obviously there are still plenty of times when he takes too long to obey, or grows impatient with things. But it has been nice to see him actually decide to say 'sorry' - of his own accord; or to change his attitude when he realises he was wrong. He has a big smile and an affectionate cuddle. The other day, as I planted some seeds, he came up beside me and watched me. Then suddenly he turned to me and said, "Good job, Mum. Good job." It was so cute and heart-warming!

Jonathan is nearly 18 months now. He has such clear blue sparkly eyes! He loves to follow in Joshua's footsteps. The things Joshua does with neatness and precision, Jonathan copies adding extra gusto, and getting filthy in the process. It is wonderful to watch their interaction and how Joshua is learning to look out for his younger brother. And to see Jonathan imitating Joshua...trying to say 'Thank You" or "Please". On the other side of that, two little boys doing the same mischievous thing is 'double trouble'. It's a lot quicker spreading cornflakes all over the floor, when there is two of you to turn the box upside down and shake. ;) Jonathan has quite the gift of giving big kisses on your cheek, with the added sound effect. He is such a darling little son.

Baby is 16 weeks along, and all seems to be going well. I am looking forward to my first midwife appointment tomorrow. Joel has taken the afternoon off to accompany me. With each baby he has been able to make it along for the first visit...that way he gets to meet the midwife and hear the precious sound of our baby's heartbeat for the first time. :: I am also rather excited that a lovely friend is due with her third baby, only 2 days after my due date! She and her husband have two boys also, so we are both wondering whether we'll have girls this time! ::

Thank you to everyone who commented on my last post (which announced the baby). I enjoyed reading all the comments and it was lovely to hear from each of you!

I have read some wonderful articles recently, which I will share in another post. Oh and hopefully I'll be posting in my photo journal soon as well.

Until then,
Beth

P.S. Photos are from Pinterest

Announcing...

2011-11-28T14:18:00.000+11:00

{Ten weeks along, and ever so thankful

to God for our new little blessing!}

Jonathan and a Paddlepop

2011-11-16T21:09:00.000+11:00

Click here to see photos of

Jonathan with a Paddlepop!

A Glimpse of the Queen

2011-11-15T11:47:00.000+11:00

Early, one fine Saturday morning (October 22) Abbie, Grace and I met up and drove in to Canberra. Abbie had secured 1 standing ticket to 'see the Queen' at Duntroon, the Royal Military College. Grace and I decided to trip along and see if we were kindly granted tickets last minute.

After close to an hour, of standing in a long line of eager people, we were given three sitting tickets by the ticket officer. He ended up being from my family's church; and we were grateful for his consideration of us.

Then we waited for a Defence Force Bus to take us into Duntroon itself, as no public vehicles were allowed within the entrance. Our seats were facing towards where the Queen would be standing. It ended up being quite warm in the sun but it was very enjoyable. We saw Her Majesty the Queen! She was dressed in a lovely bright outfit; so it was very easy for us to spot her in the distance.

Well this post is long overdue, so without further words...here are the photos, kindly given to me by Abbie. And a short video clip from ABC News, which will give you a bit more information.

One of the Buses

A Soldier

The Queen and Prince Phillip arriving

Walking to inspect the troops

The Band

The old and new Colours

We are sure she was looking towards us ;)

Looking towards Parliament House from the War Memorial

::2 Years::

2011-10-24T19:31:00.000+11:00

We have lived in this home

for 2 years today!

...................

Time has flown and it really

does not feel that long.

We are thankful for the Lord's guiding hand.

He was so gracious to us

in granting us a house to buy.

Thank you, Lord.

...................

Moved here: October 24th, 2009

Diligence is the Key

2011-10-18T20:28:00.000+11:00

Would you have more faith?

Do you find believing so pleasant that you would like to believe more?

Then take heed that you are diligent in the use of every means of grace

- diligent in your private communion with God

- diligent in your daily watchfulness over time, temper, and tongue

- diligent in your private Bible reading

- diligent in your own private prayers.

It is vain to expect spiritual prosperity, when we are careless about these things.

Let those who will, call it over-precise and legal to be particular about them.

I only reply, that there never was an eminent saint who neglected them.

J.C. Ryle Quotes

..........................................................

{P.S. There is another small post in my Photo Journal.}

How is Your Day Going?

2011-10-13T15:50:00.000+11:00

::Family Holiday:: Part 3

2011-10-13T11:29:00.005+11:00

On Wednesday, October 5th, we had a day-trip to Sydney City to see the sights. Abbie and Grace were in Sydney on Tuesday for a dental appointment so they stayed with us on Tuesday night. Then on Wednesday they came with us to be our unofficial travel guides =). They have been in Sydney before, visiting the sights; and knew their way around better than we did!

We began the day, by catching the train to Circular Quay. The train carriage was full so we stood for 40 minutes; swaying with the jolts, and laughing every now and then when it caught us off guard. Next we took a ferry to Darling Harbour.

The green/gold ferry was the one we went on

Sydney Harbour Bridge

We had a quick walk through the Maritime Museum.

Stopped for morning tea, sitting overlooking the water...

Caught the Monorail to Pitt Street. Went up Centrepoint Tower (after conquering the fears of a lift that lasted for 40 seconds before reaching the top!), looked at the amazing views from there. It was amazing how small the vehicles and people looked. It really made me think about how insignificant we are as people. Tiny dots on a tiny world in the middle of a huge universe. How amazing that the Lord should care for us!

Looking up at Centrepoint Tower, taken from Pitt Street

View from Centrepoint Tower

See how tiny the vehicles look!

View from Centrepoint Tower

Next, we hopped on the monorail again - and stayed on for the whole round trip which lasted about 15 minutes. Ate lunch. Walked back to the ferry.

The Monorail Track

Monorail

After the monorail, we took a leisurely walk down to the wharf; and sailed back around to Circular Quay - under the Harbour Bridge.

Water behind the ferry

Harbour Bridge and the Opera House

Hopped off the ferry, and walked to the Opera House. Walked back again.

Bought a Coffee/Hot Chocolate, Hot Chips, and a Gelato varying per person.

Rushed back to the train so as to secure seats as we were all quite tired.

Thankfully we found seats and slumped into them, weary.

Joshua still had energy and kept the people behind us well entertained,

by chattering away to a young boy and also giggling. :)

We walked back to our vehicles, and after driving only a few streets,
both boys were asleep. Completely out to it!
They did so well throughout the day, with hardly any crying.

It was a lovely fun day! Thanks, Abbie and Grace, for helping us to better enjoy sightseeing! It really would have been quite difficult, without you.

Thanks also to Abbie for allowing me to use her photos, once again.
>>>>> Click here for more photos! <<<<<

::Family Holiday:: Part 2

2011-10-08T20:19:00.001+11:00

On Tuesday Oct. 4th, we drove to Sydney Olympic Park and rode our bikes around the "Parklands Circuit". It was excellent as the paths are specifically designed for bike-riding and there were nice parklands/wetlands on either side of the path. The boys enjoyed riding in their trailer again. After a good hour's ride, we stopped at the picnic area and had a BBQ.

Later that afternoon, we visited my Auntie Yvonne, and some of my cousins. It was lovely to see them again and we liked seeing their glossy black rabbit, and chirpy 'Lovebird'.

Overlooking Olympic Stadium

Our Bikes at the Lookout

We rode up from the dirt road,
around and around the hill till we reached the top

Stopped for a BBQ

Family Holiday... Part 1. October 4
'Photo Blog' Link Here

::Family Holiday:: Part 1

2011-10-03T23:02:00.002+11:00

Holidays...are so wonderful! And we are presently enjoying one!

Our kind Oma was so good as to have us stay with her from Friday (Sept. 30) till Sunday. Then she headed off to stay with my family, several hours away; while allowing us to continue to stay in her home. Sort of like a house-swap! Thank you, Oma! Her house feels so much like home. After all, I was born in a hospital just near her house; and when Dad and Mum took their new little baby home, it was to Oma's house. They were living with her at the time. I think for about a year? So yes, in my memory, Oma has always lived in this place; and it feels so home-like and comfortable to me. {See a photo of Oma and I in 1989.}

Isn't he lovely?

Before she left, Oma took us to a nearby National Park, on Saturday. It was lovely.

Here are a few snapshots of our visit there. There are more photos on my photo blog.

At the National Park, looking across the river

We couldn't believe the amount of Cockatoos around. Here is a friendly one saying hello.

An old bridge - still in use

Jonathan with his juice popper

Family Holiday... Part 1. September 30 - October 3
'Photo Blog' Link here

Our Merciful, Compassionate Christ

2011-10-03T20:37:00.002+11:00

Let us take comfort in the thought that the Lord Jesus does not cast off His believing people because of failures and imperfections. He knows what they are. He takes them, as the husband takes the wife, with all their blemishes and defects, and once joined to Him by faith, will never leave them. He is a merciful and compassionate High-priest. It is His glory to pass over the transgressions of His people, and to cover their many sins. He knew what they were before conversion--wicked, guilty, and defiled; yet He loved them. He knows what they will be after conversion--weak, erring, and frail; yet He loves them. He has undertaken to save them, notwithstanding all their shortcomings, and what He has undertaken He will perform.

:: J.C. Ryle ::

Life IS Busy. But God IS Good.

2011-09-23T08:44:00.002+10:00

Isn't Spring just a beautiful season! These warm, sunny, delightful days are flying by though, and opportunities to blog have passed also. I have meant to keep my blog updated more; but sorry people, there are actually more important things to do! ;)

We had a couple of months of sickness...children with tonsillitis, chesty colds, and Jonathan was/is teething. Day after day went past, in which I nearly felt sure that the crying and grumpiness just would not end! It can be so difficult to get housework done with a 1 year old hitching a ride on your left hip (rubbing his runny nose and teary eyes across your clean blouse), and a two year old lying on the grass outside ~~screaming~~ asking for 'more water?' in his bucket of dirt. Dishes, and washing, and ironing, and toddler beds needing sheets straightened, and a highchair needing cornflakes wiped off, and bathrooms calling out my name.

Clean Me!

On those days, I try to forget about the extras. Such as the filing cabinet that needs re-organising; the bags of books from friends, that need sorting and placing on bookshelves; and the veggie garden that needs planting, etc. Because otherwise it can become very overwhelming. I remind myself that this is THE NORMAL. Life will always be busy...in different ways, yes, but certainly still busy. I need to learn how to utilize my time around the Lord, first and foremost, and then my hubby and boys. They need to come first. I am learning day by day to take time to enjoy my husband and sons; actually spend time with the people I love; enjoy little things like the new buds on the silver birch; praise the Lord for His goodness in every thing; and calmly keep carrying on with the housework. By God's grace, accomplishing something each day; even if it is "only" playing ball with Joshua and hearing him giggle as Mummy tries to chase him. But usually {I can be thankful} I am able to keep up with the basic housework, cooking and washing. And every so often, as a bonus, I achieve another 'to-do' item, as well!!

Anyhow we have all been well for several weeks now,
and the boys are playing a lot more happily! As I said in the title
- Life IS Busy. But God IS Good.
And He blesses me in more ways than I can number.

New growth on our Silver Birch

Here are just a few things that I am grateful for, in this busy season of motherhood:

~ a wonderful man who helps out so much and is so considerate.

~ sisters popping around..'just to help out for an hour before dinner'

~ my mum's encouragement

~ the book "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp,

...which I am slowly getting through in my spare time ;) !

~ bright cheery days, meaning the boys get outside and play happily for sometime

~ a friend nearby, who has 2 little boys and understands because she is also very busy

I love my little family so much. I have done a series of catch up photo posts.

You can click right here to go to my photo blog home page,
or just follow the individual links below.

{If you do not yet have access, please read here.}

......................................................

*Joel, Dad, and a friend prepared and laid a concrete slab
for our planned Garden Shed.

*The boys are nearly always together, when they play. So cute.

*Joshua and Jonathan having an afternoon of water play

*We met up with Bede, Jemima, and the boys for a picnic last Sunday.

*Jonathan loves mud and gravitates towards it

*A picture post on 'The Life of a Camellia' :)

*Sepia shots of the boys
.......................................................

Joshua likes to watch the insects and ants that move along the ground

Concrete getting poured

Water Play

To finish off, I wonder if you would be willing to leave a comment in response
to one or all of the following questions? Thank You!

~ How do YOU make spending time with the Lord, a priority?

~ What are some practical helps for juggling the housework

and little children who need you to hold them in your arms?

~ What things are YOU grateful for in your busy life?

Love in Christ, Beth

Craft with Joshua

2011-08-24T12:22:00.001+10:00

This morning I quickly put together this very basic Colours and Shapes

board to help Joshua learn. He is great at saying his colours but tends to mix some of them up. Twice he has had a giggling 'discussion' with Uncle Luke over whether a colour was yellow or red, for example. I'll leave it up to you to guess who was right!

While I cut out shapes, Joshua tore paper into 'shapes' of some sort.

While I taped the shapes onto the cardboard,

Joshua stuck his shapes together with bits of sticky tape.

He did a good job. =)

Then we practised and because he already knows the general colours, he managed to get most of them right. Shapes will take even more practise. Though he did keep pointing at the circles saying "round and round"!

Next it was time for Playdough.

He diligently cut and sawed away at the lump of dough;

until he had a nice collection of playdough strips in his tin. :)

Maybe he thought he was cooking up a real treat?

And throughout that time,

little brother Jonathan slept peacefully in his cot. Zzzzzz!

In Loving Memory of

2011-08-09T12:08:00.000+10:00

:: Our dear Grandma ::

She was a loving

Mother to my Dad and Mum

Grandma to us, seven sisters (and Bede and Joel)

Great-Grandma to the 5 little boys.

October 3, 1916 ~ August 7, 2011

94 years 10 months

It has all been very sudden. She was taken by ambulance to our local hospital, on Saturday morning; and passed away at 1:20 pm on Sunday, with many of us around her bedside. We are still in shock and would appreciate it, if you would remember us all in your prayers, as we grieve. Thank you.

We are already sorely missing her, our dear wonderful Grandma.

~ photo taken in April 2011 ~

Watch This Excellent Documentary...

2011-08-06T23:53:00.001+10:00

~ DIVIDED the Movie ~

"As you look on the church landscape, youth are leaving the faith in droves. The modern church, overall, is struggling to reach the next generation with the gospel. What has happened? Whether for good or bad, men, for many years, have been inventing solutions or brainstorming ideas without fully relying upon the foundation of God’s Word. God, however, is greater than man, and as the heavens are above the earth, so are His ways higher than ours and His thoughts than our thoughts (Is. 55:8-9). We have substituted the greater for the lesser – God’s wisdom for man’s ideas. Jesus said that he who hears His Word and does it, is like a man that built his house upon a rock, and when the storm came, it stood firm. On the other hand, he who rejects His Word, is like a man who built on the sand and when the storm came, the house fell (Matt. 7:24-25). Shouldn’t the church, as a whole, abandon the sandy ideas of man and shamelessly return to the firm rock of the Word of God? God’s Word sufficiently identifies how youth are to be reached. For more information on this issue, please see the film Divided, which is a documentary on age-segregated youth ministry in America. Watch it for free (for a limited time) at www.dividedthemovie.com."

Official Divided the Movie (HD Version) from NCFIC on Vimeo.

'Do It Anyway'

2011-08-06T18:29:00.003+10:00

We can enjoy life or we can survive life.

Our daily responses to the little things determine which it will be.

If the carpet is worn, vacuum it anyway.

If the furniture is old, dust it anyway.

If the linoleum is scuffed, sweep it anyway.

If the tub is stained, scour it anyway.

If the sink is leaky, clean it anyway.

If the toilet needs fixing, scrub it anyway.

If the bedspread needs updating, make your bed anyway.

If the rug is frayed, straighten it anyway.

If the pillows are lumpy, fluff them anyway.

If the clothes are out-of-date, iron them anyway.

If the shoes are cheap, shine them anyway.

If the closet is too small, organize it anyway.

If the dishes are chipped, wash them anyway

If the table is rickety, wipe it anyway.

If the kids are fussy, hug them anyway.

If the hubby is cranky, kiss him anyway.

If the neighbours are loud, wave at them anyway.

If the clerk is rude, smile at her anyway.

IF LIFE IS LESS THAN PERFECT… ENJOY IT ANYWAY!

We can live in

Order without perfection;

Peace without luxury,

and Joy without convenience.

Life is what you make of it… so do it anyway.

....................................................

~ Read this great blogpost at Little Natural Cottage; and thought I would re-post it here! Thanks, Kristy ~

Our Latest Family Activity

2011-08-03T15:50:00.001+10:00

We decided to buy Bikes and a Child Trailer as a new activity for our family. The bikes will be handy in many ways...a. Joel can ride to work, b. I can have an early morning ride, c. during the day I can take both boys along, or d. we can all go together. The roads in our town are so wide and fairly quiet that we don't mind riding on the road; but if we were in a larger city we would be seeking out any available bike paths. All 4 of us have been twice already; and we had such a great time! Jonathan even fell asleep, and Joshua sang cheery little songs. =)

We think it was well-worth the money because bike riding combines

family time + being outdoors + exercise + conversation.

Below are pictures with the style of bikes we bought...

Men's Giant Cypress 3 2012 Hybrid Bike

:: A hybrid bike is a cross between a Mountain Bike and a Road Bike, I believe. ::

Women's Giant Cypress 3W 2011 Hybrid Bike

:: I haven't had a 'proper' ladies bike before; and so I was very happy to find it was really quite easy to ride a ladies bike with a skirt. Obviously, it would be impractical to ride with a really long skirt; but I tried out my new bike with several different styles, and none of them have even come close to getting caught in the chain. So that was encouraging, as I wanted the freedom of being able to ride my bike - without having to change the way I prefer to dress. ::

Weehoo Buggy Trailer

This trailer fits one or two children, and they are strapped in with a 5 point harness each. It also converts to a 'pram' so that you can unhitch it from the bike and walk along pushing it. As shown above.

Click HERE to see photos...

Until next time! Beth

Hello Again!

2011-07-30T21:18:00.000+10:00

Dear Friends,

It has been awhile since I posted, due to computer hassles again. :( We have just recieved our laptop back from the technician. So now to try and update you on several events of the last month!

:: My dear hubby turned 23 on July 15. We had a small celebration for him, with a few friends and family at a local church building. ::

:: Joshua started talking more...saying things like "share", "roll", "shut the door", "throw the ball", "Millie" (our cat), "hello, "Jonno", "ute", "see you", "I wuv you", "couch", "fridge"... and you get the general idea! He gives most words a go nowadays. He might not pronounce it right, straight away but he certainly manages little conversations with us! I really enjoy having him more verbal. It makes things so much easier. Even though he tends to ask "what's that?" a lot! ::

:: I had a deliciously unusual reading spree for a week or two. Unusual in the sense that while I love reading, I don't often get/make a chance. So it was very enjoyable to read a few pages before bed, each night. I should make it happen more often! I indulged in reading some light material in the form of "Little Britches" and "Man of the House" by Ralph Moody. Then "Prudence Winterburn" by Rosa N. Carey. I also continued reading through "The Duties of Parents"by Jacobus Koelman, which is a most challenging book.

:: We spent an evening at Sean and Cassandra's. Tim and Fiona were also invited and arrived with a card game. After the children were settled in bed, we played "PHASE 10" for a couple of hours. It was a lot of fun and recommended playing. ::

:: We visited our friend, Peter in his new abode. He was an excellent host and cooked us a very tasty dinner and dessert. Time flew by and suddenly we realised it was time to leave...a very late but fun night. ::

:: We attended the funeral of a little 3 year old boy, Zach, which was very sad. It is so comforting to have the Lord God to trust in completely. It was encouraging to see the parents of this little boy, putting their faith in the Lord, through this very difficult time. They also have two young daughters. It would be good if you could pray for them all. (Simeon & Sarah, Nadia & Aimee) ::

:: On July 16, littlest man turned 1 year old! Jonathan has grown up so much in the last month and is learning new things every few days. Within one week, he went from crawling to toddling; and now he is walking everywhere and climbing on things. He loves to follow Joshua and is already copying him. He loves rough and tumbles with his Daddy and brother. He enjoys cuddles with his Mama. He makes a dash for the door if it is left open and delights in being outdoors. I love him so much!

:: I have discovered a yummy "Tangy Lemon Slice" recipe, thanks to sister-in-law, Beck! I have made it a couple of times now, and it is a new favourite. ::

:: We spent two nights with Bede & Jemima, and their 3 boys. What fun it was! We had a wonderful time together. The four boys spent all their time playing in the cubby, on their bikes, and in the sand pit etc. Reuben - being a little younger - placidly lay in his rocker, smiling at anyone who walked by. He is a very happy baby! On the Saturday, we went to the Zoo. Bede and Jemima had several guest passes, which meant we could all go for free. Such beautiful weather, made it very pleasant. ::

:: I have planted many 'Sweet Pea'' seeds. The shoots have now made it up through the soil and are pushing steadily up towards the sky. I'm looking forward to the flowers.::

:: I adore the weather we have been having. Though I'll admit I have been finding these frosty mornings COLD to say the least. But after about 10:30am, the sun's rays begin to warm things up a little. I always develop cravings in this sort of weather. Cravings for 'more outdoor time''. Cravings for dirt roads, green pastures, sun, blue skies, fresh air, and gentle breezes. Sadly I can't spend all my time outside, but I do enjoy hanging up the washing and playing with the boys. As spring approaches, I would like to begin walking more too. ::

:: The other night as I was just drifting off to sleep...which by the way, doesn't take me very long nowadays {I even fall asleep if I sit still for too long!} the phone rang. We both jumped up and tried to get our bearings. Who could be ringing at this time of night?" we asked. It was Luke, my brother-in-law, announcing the birth of their first child. A boy - NATHAN JOHN. 7 lbs 5 oz. So glad to hear the good news that I didn't mind being woken up. But truth be told, it did take me longer to get to sleep after I heard, because I was thinking about the precious joy children are, and remembering the births of our two boys. Children are a gift from the Lord!

:: Last night I actually got to hold my newest nephew. Luke and Kylie came by for a visit, after a trip to the birth centre for a baby checkup. I couldn't believe how small Nathan was. Jonathan looks like a big boy in comparison to this newborn! ::

:: Well, many other things have happened also, but for now they have flown my mind. I plan to post some photos 'next door' on my private blog soon. But this is all for today, along with a quote from J. R. Miller. ::

Love to all, Beth

MISINTERPRETATION

'Life is full of misinterpretations. Many of us have wrong opinions of others. We think they do not care for us when they really do. We imagine they are angry at us when there is not a shade of unkind feeling in their heart. We misinterpret their acts. Many a time things that offend us, if we but understood the motive that prompted them and the true love that is in them, would really appear beautiful in our eyes. We ought to guard continually against these misinterpretations. They do wrong to others. They rob our own hearts of peace. "Love thinketh no evil." Let us be sure always that we see an act in its proper light.'

~ J. R. Miller ~

~ All pictures are courtesy of Google Images ~

Challenging Words

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:: Take Heed What You Read ::

"Do not let newspapers, novels and romances be read, while the prophets and Apostles be despised. Do not let the exciting and sensual swallow up your attention, while the edifying and the sanctifying can find no place in your mind. Give the Bible the honour due to it, every day you live. Whatever you read, read that first. And beware of bad books; there are plenty in this day. Take heed what you read."

:: J.C.Ryle ::

:: The Test of Amusements ::

"Is the love of pleasure growing upon you, gaining the power and the ascendancy over you? Is it dulling the keenness of your zest for spiritual pleasures? Is it making Bible-Study, prayer, communion with Christ, meditation upon holy themes, less sweet enjoyments than before? Is it making your hunger for righteousness, for God, less intense? Is it interfering with the comfort and blessing you used to find in church services, in Christian work? If so, there is only one thing to do - to hasten to God, cut off the pleasure that is imperilling the soul, and to find in Christ the joy which the world can never give and which never harms the life. We must test all our pleasures by this rule: Are they helping us to grow into the noblest spiritual beauty?"

:: J. R. Miller ::

Outdoor Fun with my Little Men

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Back in May, the boys and I spent several mornings together out in the back garden, enjoying the Autumn air. I managed to get a few photos of my little men playing; and thought you may like to see the pictures. Here is the link; and below a couple of other photos from the day!

We bought this wagon, over a year ago, for Joshua's first birthday. It helped him learn to walk; and now it is working the same for Jonathan. He absolutely loves walking with the wagon, and has successfully learnt how to steer it now. He manoeuvres it throughout the whole house, in and out of rooms, around toys etc. Before too long, we expect that he will be walking...as he has already tried to 'let go' of a support, and is able to stand for a few seconds alone.

Millie is usually indoors - though she tries hard to escape outside. But on this particular day, I let her out; and she enjoyed exploring the garden and watching the boys play.

Leaves = a classic sign of Autumn! Even though it's Winter now, we still have many leaves lying around under the Silver Birch Tree out the back.

:: To gain access to the photoblog, please read here ::

Dash N Joshua

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This is Dash.

also affectionately known as 'Puppy'

She is a young kelpie

full of life and energy and fun!

She is owned by our good friend, Jesse B.

So one day, while we were visiting the B.'s and chatting together;

over in a corner, a little boy was having a fun time playing

with this pup...and nearly getting his face licked. =)

To see photos, click here.

But if you don't have access to the photoblog yet, click here.

Be On Guard Against False Doctrine

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"Let us be on our guard against false doctrine. Unsound faith will never be the mother of really sound practice, and in these latter days, departures from the faith abound. See then that your loins be girded about with truth, and be very jealous of receiving anything which cannot be proved by the Bible. Do not think for a moment that false doctrine will meet you face to face, saying, "I am false doctrine, and I want to come into your heart." Satan does not go to work in that way. He dresses up false doctrine like Jezebel — he paints her face and attires her hair, and tries to make her like truth. Do not think that those who preach error will never preach anything that is true. Error would do little harm if that was the case. No! Error will come before you mingled with much that is sound and scriptural."

:: J.C.Ryle ::

Sisters & Devotional Gems

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Several weeks ago, we went to a Sunday wedding along with Joel's family, David and Beck, Bede and Jemima, and Bede's family. It was wonderful to celebrate the marriage of the bride and groom; and to see their happiness! After the wedding, we had a picnic (with the previously mentioned families). It was good to catch up and let the children enjoy the play park. =)

We all went our separate ways, but later we heard that B. & J.'s car had broken down. It was unable to be fixed until the Monday; so Dave and Beck kindly offered to have them stay over at their house (about 20 minutes away).

Such a good opportunity of meeting both 'sisters' could not be missed, so Abbie, Grace and I drove over with the boys and spent the day together with them. It was a cold and wet day, making it extra cosy. The children had a great time in Dave and Beck's large living area. We laughed at how it ended up looking like a mini day care centre - seven children under 4 years old, toys, and more toys! Especially so, when we left Uncle Bede with all the children; while we girls took off together to a local bookstore. We DID come back with afternoon tea from the local bakery; to reward the babysitter (though of course, we did 'help' him along with eating it). Thank you Beck, for your hospitality!

Photos of this day and the delightful bookstore are shown HERE. And if you would like an email invite to my photoblog, please read THIS PAGE.

At the bookstore, I was so excited to find two devotional gems! I found a tiny 'Daily Light', which contains a selection of bible verses for each day, for $5. And I found a small 'In Green Pastures', which also contains daily readings for each day, by J.R.Miller, for $7!

Inside I.G.P. - it says "To Dear Mr and Mrs Martin, With fond love from Rosie". Xmas 1918

Reading for June 8th

Another example of the daily readings

Daily Light

There is a morning and evening reading for EACH day.

Will You Be A Trader?

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:: Thanks to Mum, for forwarding this excellent clip to us ::

A Visit With Dear Friends

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Back in April, {yes it has taken me this long to post!} we had Morgan, Sarah and Bronwyn over to stay a night,which was lovely. They arrived after a home-schoolers picnic, on the Anzac Day Monday; and stayed until Tuesday evening.We missed seeing Erinn and Bridie. :( They were house-sitting in South Australia; making it a little difficult for them to come too. We hope to catch up with you all again soon!

Abbie and Grace came and slept over as well. It was the first time we had had 5 guests to sleep in this house, but we managed to fit them in. =) The more the merrier!

On Monday night, we spent time playing 'Taboo', and then spontaneously decided to watch a movie together. It was very cosy - with the lounge chairs all drawn close together, and even a mattress on the floor, so that everyone was able to see the laptop screen. I think Joel and I dozed off through the movie but my excuse is it was a rather late night!

On Tuesday, we had a walk along a local dirt road. I love dirt roads! The air was very still and quiet, except for the sounds of the country and our happy chatter. While we walked, we munched on either Choc Chip Biscuits or Anzac Biscuits! T'was a fun time!

When we arrived home, Bede, Jemima and the boys came over for a BBQ lunch, before they left to go home. All in all we had a delightfully pleasant time. Thank you so much for coming to stay - Morgan, Sarah, and Bronwyn! xo

If you would like to see photos (courtesy of Abbie), I have posted several HERE. And if you would like an email invite to my photoblog, please read this page.

Follow Me! =)

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I am having some difficulty with the followers gadget. =(

All who subscribed originally should still be receiving updates in their feed reader thankfully; BUT your individual followers 'photo' is not showing up in "An Australian Housewife" but rather it is in "Beth's Photo Journal".

{Just because your followers photo may be visible on "Beth's Photo Journal" does NOT mean you have access, sorry. You will still need to email me if you would like to view it.}

IF you feel like 'following' my main blog again and having your picture appear on "An Australian Housewife" please do so! =) Thank you!

Explaining Why My Blog Has Changed

2011-05-30T21:14:00.005+10:00

Dear Readers,

For some time now, I have not felt overly comfortable posting such a large amount of personal photos on my blog. The online world is a big place. I don't like the idea that any random person could be seeing all my personal photos of our children, family and even friends.

So here is what I plan to do:

Blog 1: 'An Australian Housewife' will be open to all. Here I will write similar things to what I had been posting; along with good quotes or articles. The only thing missing will be the majority of 'people' photos.

Blog 2: 'My Photo Journal' will be privatized and this is where I will post photos...these may often correspond to the 'wordy' posts. I understand that people love seeing photos {I do myself!} and I don't necessarily have a problem with people viewing them, just so long as I have been able to exercise discretion and observe who exactly IS looking at them.

Dear friends, please drop me an email (see my profile) to say you would like to be on the readers list; and I will send you the invite and link. =)

And to all other interested readers {fellow-Christians, maybe?} please don't hesitate because of the following notice that will appear..."This blog is open to invited readers only. It doesn't look like you have been invited to read this blog. If you think this is a mistake, you might want to contact the blog author and request an invitation". Please do contact me if you are genuinely interested! I certainly hope that many of my readers will still be able to view the photos...

Love Beth