The Melbourne Walkers

First day of Prep and Gr 2

2012-01-30T20:31:00.003-05:00

The start of another busy school year and both girls were feeling happy and excited abotu starting PREP and Gr 2.

Our two big school girls!

Angus would have liked to be starting school today too!

Emily and her friend - they'll miss each other.

Abi ready and excited about grade 2

Emily excited about starting school.

Summer fun !

2012-01-09T06:02:00.001-05:00

While we were in Ballarat we found a great playground that had some interesting effects !

The bubble returns ! For all those who lived in Ballarat in the 80's this is the next best thing to walking on water in the bubble - the most fun ever!!

What's the Summer holidays without a water fight?

Off to the big city

2012-01-09T05:40:00.000-05:00

Lloyd and I snapped up the offer for a night out in the city whilst Bob and Chris were down from Brisbane. We have a lovely romantic night and then met up with the rest of the gang the next morning.

After lunch on South Wharf we decided to do the tourist thing and check out the tall ship, the Polly Woolside. The kids and grown up girls thought it was all very interested and we even got put to work.

Abi and the ships bell

Angus and Emily and the ships bell

Being put to work scrubbing the deck

Good work Grandma - keep scrubbing!

The kids at the ships stern.

Ballarat cont... Sovereign Hill

2012-01-09T01:09:00.000-05:00

Day 2 of our Ballarat adventure took us to Sovereign hill.

Ballarat Wildlife park

2012-01-09T00:11:00.001-05:00

Having won a family pass to Ballarat Wildlife park at Emily's kinder fundraising night we decided to head to our old stomping ground and spend a couple of days in Ballarat. Here are some photos from the wildlife park.

The kids LOVED feeding the kangaroos.

And loved patting the Koala's.

And they even tried patting the snake ! Well done!

HAPPY FAMILY

What's a day out without a play on the playground.

Swings are best!

Emily not so keen on the look of the Goanna's and bigger lizards.

Christmas with the Pikes

2011-12-27T02:47:00.000-05:00

It was a quiet Christmas at the Pikes this year with only the Walkers and one other sister at a time. Lisa come on Christmas eve for some pressies and good food and Sarah and Aaron came Christmas night for some more pressies and some more good food!

Poppy with his turning fork Nanny with her pasta maker

Santa Abi

Wow - Diesel 10!

guess who got face paints from Santa??

Bubble machines rule.. fun for the whole family

One happy boy, with 5 new trains and a diesel works station for Chrissy.

Abi was pretty happy with her Zhu Zhu pet princess and carriage.

Emily was smitten with her new baby alive doll - who drinks, wees, talks and kicks it's legs!

Wow! Baby Alive!

Sarah receiving a present and Sarah giving out a present on behalf of one pregnant sister (who shall remain nameless)

Around the dinner table - what a feast!

Lloyd being cheeky - you can tell by the smile!

the kids singing "we wish you a merry Christmas"

Aunty Lisa happy with her photo of the nieces and nephew.

Camping in Echuca/ Moama

2011-12-26T19:53:00.001-05:00

As soon as school finished for the year we took the opportunity to make a dash for it and start the holidays with a (relaxing) camping trip up to the Murray.

The Walkers and the Barnes kids.

Emily and Abi relaxing in the pool.

Angus pretending (quite convincingly) to be a little Lloyd.

The kids about to go on the Emmylou paddle steamer.

Abi, Emily and Nyah enjoying some local cherries.

Emily flying a kite with Dad.

The boys about to go for a bike ride.

Enjoying the bouncy pillow.

Pony Tales

2011-12-26T18:31:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos of the lovely Lily and Nibbles.

Abi on Lily, Emily on Nibbles with Angus holding Nibbles.

Angus on Nibbles.

Abi doing some bare back riding after Lily had had a wash.

Emily on Lily after her wash.

Pretty ponies sharing some hay.

Random photos from December

2011-12-26T17:27:00.001-05:00

Here are a selection of photos from December...

Emily being a Koala at her kinder.

3 cheeky monkeys eating ice cream

"Bluey" - our friendly neighbourhood blue tongue lizard.

Flowers down our driveway.

mmm.... Angus in teddy bear dress ups!

Christmas Tree 2011

2011-12-26T17:10:00.002-05:00

Scally getting into the Christmas decorating.

Emily putting the tree together.

Even Mummy gets a turn.

Abi thought she might become the Christmas tree.

Angus helping out.

3 cute kids!

Camping in the rain!

2011-11-01T05:39:00.009-05:00

Camping over the Melbourne Cup weekend is proving to be a bit of a wash out. Last year we only lasted 2 nights and came home due to flooding and this year wasn't much better. We did manage to stay right through till Tuesday though which I must say was well worth the effort.

Day one involved playing in muddy puddles... I'm so glad all the kids had showers before going camping!

Well and truely past the point of no return.

True camping - roasting marshmellows by the fire.

On the one nice day we managed to get a group bike ride in along the Warbuton trail, the kids did a great job and I managed to try out my new bike!

On the not so nice day we kept busy by going to an indoor pool and trying Abi's new 'tough' camera to see if it really does work under water - luckily it did !

For much of the time the rain just kept on coming but we did manage to get out and about, even if only for a walk around the camp grounds in our coats and gumboots.

Let's face it, less hard core campers would have packed up and gone home!
But we did enjoy Warburton for it's beauty regardless of the weather.

Abi turns 8!

2011-10-18T06:42:00.006-05:00

Abi's 8th b'day was certainly celebrated well and covering quite a few days, starting with having Tyler over for a sleep over on Friday night, having a 'road trip' party with 4 friends driving to Fairy Park on Sunday and then having Nyah and Tyler over for fish and chips on her actual b'day on Monday! It's hard to believe she is now 8 and only two years off double figures...

The birthday girl - Happy B'day Abi!!!

Emily and Angus enjoying the playground.
Looking at the Frog Prince with Poppy.

Heading into Fairy Castle.
One of the many Fairies scattered around the grounds... can't go past a good fairy hunt!
Abi flying high on a snail in the playground.

Nanny and Poppy enjoying the day. (Nanny went to Fairy Park when she was a little girl, took me when I was a little girl and has taken Emily and Abi there before... it's a bit of a favourite of hers)

Lloyd and Aaron finding some long lost relatives.

White is the new black

2011-09-29T07:06:00.002-05:00

Perhaps black isn't the best colour to wear when brushing a white mountain goat, oops I mean Shetland pony!

Nibs Nibbles Walker

2011-09-11T20:32:00.004-05:00

Nibbles has arrived! She is possibly the hairiest Shetland I've ever seen, but nothing a few warm days and a bit of brushing won't fix.
No more questions about "when are we getting Nibbles?" from Angus, now it will just be "when can we brush Nibbles? when can we ride Nibbles?"

Chalk drawings

2011-09-04T02:50:00.004-05:00

A favourite past time of all the kids is to do chalk drawings on the driveway. I thought I'd take a photo of these lovely master pieces and share them.

Emily drawing a beautiful rainbow.
Abi admiring all their hard work.

Angus resting next to his duck.

Lilly

2011-09-04T00:04:00.002-05:00

Lilly arrived safe and sound and her first day was made up of lots of carrots, riding by all the kids a tail wash and lots of brushing. I think she is happy and the kids are definitely eager to make sure she is well looked after and content.

Abi giving her a brush.
Emily patting Lilly (which she did about another 20 times that day).

Abi looking very proud on Lilly for the first time.

Abi smiling as she rides through the paddock.

Emily and Lilly looking very relaxed.

Emily trotting through the paddock.

Angus going for a trot (with Daddy making sure that he doesn't slide off the side).
Angus happily sitting up on Lilly - he kept saying "Daddy, look at me! Emily, look at me!" etc.

The lovely Lilly.

The girls enjoying giving her tail a wash.

Toothless Terror.

2011-09-03T22:44:00.004-05:00

All I want for Christmas is my 2 front teeth!

Burning off

2011-07-31T07:18:00.006-05:00

Last day of July and perfect weather for a bonfire. I have to say, life seems really simple when the kids are happy playing in the paddock, with no other toys other than sticks and mud, a gentle fire is crackling in the background and you have a sausage in bread in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.... life doesn't get much better! (Except of course when you are then roasting marshmallows by the fire a few hours later.)

Abi, Emily and Angus enoying being outdoors.

Sisters...

Angus 3 years.

Abi 7.5yrs

Emily 5yrs

Enjoying the bonfire with the Barnes's - good friends, good food, good wine, good location = a great evening!

Emily turns 5

2011-07-31T06:09:00.007-05:00

A week or so after the party Emily has now turned 5.
Here are some photos from her Birthday - what a beautiful grown up girl!

Enjoying B'day cake with friends.

Emily and her new pony, Twilight. (she has to wait a little longer for a real one)

Emily's 5th party

2011-07-17T02:31:00.012-05:00

Emily had a joint party with her friend Abbi. Combining their favourite colours meant that the obviously choice was to have a "pink and purple party". We were lucky enough to get to play some games outside as well as lots of dancing and pass the parcel inside. It was a lovely afternoon for the girls - Happy B'day Emily and Abbi!

The birthday girls - Emily and Abbi
Outside games require lots of concentration.

Angus getting in on the action - good job keeping up with the big kids Angus!

Having a chat with Bethany while waiting for a turn. Abigail and Nyah watching on.

Horse riding

2011-05-29T07:02:00.003-05:00

The Walker Clan enjoyed a days horse riding at Melton. Emily had her very first riding lesson and LOVED it. She was very keen to help out with brushing the horses and doing whatever she could to help. Abi enjoyed getting back in the saddle and also enjoyed the hands on work with the ponies. The were at the riding school for 5 hrs and said they'd like to go back soon. Lloyd and I both had a lesson, and despite the sore legs afterwards had a great time remembering how to actually ride a horse properly. Emily proceeded to ask at dinner if she could have a pony for her b'day!

Mother's Night at Kinder

2011-05-29T06:45:00.002-05:00

Emily made Mummy feel very special at her Mother's day night at kinder. We had a lovely night together with special songs and dances as well as a supper provided by the children.

Emily drawing a picture of "my mum"

Easter in Qld

2011-05-29T05:53:00.004-05:00

Easter this year was spent in Brisbane with Grandma and Pa. Easter eggs were plentiful and despite the rainy weather the kids managed to get a swim in most days!

Rainy weather in Noosa.

Abi enjoying the sunshine enjoying some rock climbing.

Emily enjoying the waves with Grandma at Coolum.

Angus enjoying running on the beach.

Jumping into the pool back at Brisbane.

The Walkers with their Easter Egg haul...

Abi and Angus with the Fat controller and Thomas at the Ipswich railway museum.

Wind and rain wasn't meant to be one of the attractions at Movie World... but we still managed to have fun.
A brief moment of sunshine!

Angus turns 3

2011-04-10T06:31:00.006-05:00

After much talk, waiting and what seems a very long year (since his 2nd b'day) Angus finally turned 3 on the weekend. After enjoying a play at the school park on Friday we had pizza and a chocolate b'day cake to celebrate his b'day. On Saturday we had a party, which started with a train ride to Eltham and then a play at the park, lots of food a few games and more food and then a train ride home. On the way home Angus sat next me and said "I had a lovely party mummy". Happy b'day big boy! It's serious business lighting the b'day candles. B'day cuddles before going off to catch the train.

mmm, yesterdays cake was much more impressive mum.

Abi's such a grown up girl now, but not too big for a dinosaur party hat.

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smooches for you, smooches for me...

Angus and Finn got a head start on the party food.

What's the time Mr Wolf is always lots of fun - Wolf Abi managed to catch Angus but the rest got away.

The boys entertained Kellie and Roland with some dancing.

Jelly is always a must at 3 yr old parties.

The Lolly pop treasure hunt was a hit with all... like they needed more sugar!

Easter brunch 2011

2011-04-06T23:46:00.005-05:00

Emily had her kinder Easter brunch on the weekend. She had a lovely time showing off her Easter bonnet, joining in the parade, doing the chicken dance and singing a few other songs with the rest of the kids. Abi and Angus had fun running around and even getting in the action with some face painting and hair spray. Abi reminiscing about the "good old days" at kinder! Emily with her beautiful Easter bonnet.

Smiley Angus enjoying the day.

Emily, so happy to be at kinder on a Sunday.

Easter comes early

2011-03-27T04:43:00.003-05:00

Since we're not going to be at Nanny and Poppy's for Easter the 'Easter bunny' thought it would be nice if he left a few early eggs forthe kids to find. Angus hunting in the garden for eggs. Emily after her find!

Emily enjoying the hunt. Abi's an old pro, she done a few Easter egg hunts in her time. She was first to find her stash.

Horse riding

2011-03-27T04:18:00.005-05:00

Nanny the organiser arranged for a horse trail ride to happen on Saturday. Lloyd and I took part (and yes the next day remembered what certain muscles felt like) and after we had finished the kids got to have a walk around the yards. Nanny even had a ride and Angus thought that her white horse was the best. "Can we buy Nanny's horse at the horse shop?" was his question for the rest of the afternoon.

Nanny on "nanny's horse"

Lloyd looking very comforable on "barney" Julia on her first warmblood!

Abi on "nanny's horse"

Angus with a half smile, not sure if he's happy or worried...

Emily was very excited about having a ride on a pony.

First days

2011-02-26T05:40:00.006-05:00

2011 sees Abi in grade 1 and Emily in 4yr old preschool. Both girls were very excited about their stepping up into a new adventure.

Abigail on first day of grade 1

Nyah and Abi at school on their first day of grade 1. Looking far more relaxed than the same time last year!

Emily on her first day of 4 year old kinder, feeling very big and grown up.

Walkers, Walkers everywhere

2011-02-24T06:05:00.004-05:00

January was a busy time with lots of fun with "the Walkers". At one stage 11 Walker family members all staying in our house! It was great to see Adrian, Rachel, Jamie and Hannah as well as Grandma and Pa and we certainly packed a lot into the 10 days we were together. Here are just a few of the highlights.

Jamie on Australia Day
Abi at Wombat park

Emily and Hannah on Puffing Billy

Angus at Funfields

The Walker Clan (minus Bec) 2011

We wish you a merry Christmas!

2011-01-04T05:29:00.004-05:00

Christmas day at Nanny and Poppy's house is always full of adventure...
Here's Abi unwrapping a book that she's been begging for since this time last year!
Who needs toys when you have a Nanny to play with?

"Wow, just what I always wanted!" quote of the day by Angus

Christmas is SOOO much fun!!!

Happy family... Abi 7 yrs, Emily 4 yrs, Angus 2.5yrs.

The 3 cheeky monkeys

Sarah stuck for words!!

Poppy with his joke book... (thanks Belsa, we'll be hearing these for years to come)

How can you go past The Stig for good value fun?

Tea and cake any one?

The kids loved the GIANT ball from Aunty Sarah and Uncle Aaron.

Time to deflate... being let down slowly!

Queenscliff Dec 2010

2010-12-21T07:14:00.003-05:00

The week after school finished we decided to do a 'girls trip' away with the Barnes' (including the little boys). There was no one around and even though we were all a little tired (and grumpy) it was a lovely couple of days away to kick start the holidays.

The kids were very excited to be taking their Aunties boogie boards to the beach for the first time. Abi tried to catch a few waves despite it being freezing cold both in and out of the water. As always, we found a playground to play on and then back at 'the big 4' we all enjoyed playing on the bouncy pillow.

Having a bounce on the bouncy pillow.

Abi's favourite position, upside down or spinning around.

Angus doing the crazy man dance

Emily at the playground

The kids carrying the boogie boards to the beach, perhaps they are a little smaller than Kellie, Lisa and Sarah were when they used them!

Emily making a sand angel.

Abi surfing the big waves!

Christmas tree decorating 2010

2010-12-21T06:18:00.003-05:00

We all too turns to decorate the tree, Dad did the lights and kids decorated until they got bored and Mum finished it off. Pretty much the same as last year!

The local wildlife

2010-12-21T05:37:00.003-05:00

Here are some photos taken from around our house of some local inhabitants.

Our resident turtle that we then took down to the river and released back into 'the wild'. />A dragon fly down by the vegie garden.
Our kookaburra, a recent regular we can see from our deck.

A praying mantis (?) who we found in a bucket and let go into the garden.

Some monkey's released from the zoo for a while

We're camping in the rain!

2010-11-01T05:23:00.007-05:00

So in bright sunshine we headed off to Warburton for a camping long weekend. Shorts and t-shirts was the dress code and all seemed fine - surely the weather forecast was going to be wrong! Unfortunately for us the weather forecast was not wrong and we did indeed receive gail force winds and pouring rain on Saturday. We managed to baton down the hatches for the night but when we woke and there were puddles inside the tent (coming up from the floor rather than a leaking roof line) we decided it may be time to pack up shop and head home. The kids had a fantastic time regardless and even though it wasn't really long enough the grown ups had a 'relaxing' (as much as you can camping with young children) time too.

Emily on the trail along the river.

Angus having to run after the girls on bikes.

Angus and Daddy trying to get the kite up in the air (note: shorts and t-shirts)

Emily after her mud bath.

This is the way we wash our kids on a cold and frosty morning...

Lloyd in his wet weather gear.

The Walkers and Joys enjoying the muddy puddles.

Abi and Tyler enjoying a brief moment of sunshine.

Happy 7th B'day Abigail

2010-10-27T05:57:00.005-05:00

Abi had a wonderful 7th b'day celebrated by an old fashioned home party with pass the parcel, a treasure hunt, parachute games and of course some craft (as well as some Lux soap sensory time!). As dressing up is still a big part of play at our house it was only fitting to have a dress up party. There were some great costumes ranging from policeman, rock stars, spider man and of course princesses, fairies and queens. So with the party over all that is left is to find space for the multitude of presents and figure out how to deal with the attitude of a big 7 yr old!

Random Photos

2010-10-27T05:23:00.004-05:00

Just a few random shots from around the place.

The kids were very excited about their tall tower that was bigger than Daddy.

Emily and the dinosaurs.

Angus in a big bed

2010-09-03T07:11:00.005-05:00

Back at the start of August Angus made the leap (literally) from cot to big bed... and after only a few nights he even started to sleep in it rather than on the floor!

Big beds are always more fun with friends!

Angus has become quite fond of his b'ball and it has made the move into the new big bed too.

Long weekend in the Western District

2010-09-03T06:11:00.003-05:00

We decided to take a mid term long weekend and make the trip back to the Western District for some fresh country air. We all felt really at home at both Janna and Kate's farms and it was just nice to be back home, seeing the Grampians and enjoying time with old friends.

Doing circle work in Kate's paddocks. The kids were fascinated by the sheep "getting a hair cut".

Em and Angus having a bonding moment.

The 3 kids at "Cloven Hills".

Gotta love climbing trees in the country!

It got pretty cold once the rain came down and we had to walk back through the cold paddocks. Lucky Dad was there to save the day.

The normal state of walking with our family - Abi in the front and the others wandering behind.

Abi's photo of us heading towards the creek at Janna's.

Abi's photo of the kids - "We love jumping in muddle puddles" and there were lots of them at Janna's farm!

Birthday bowling

2010-09-03T05:22:00.003-05:00

The Pike family August b'days were celebrated with some good old fashioned family fun at the bowling alley and then cake and coffee back at our house. The kids did better than most of the adults and I don't think it had anything to do with the bumpers and ramp that they got to use!

Boy cuddles

2010-09-03T05:07:00.003-05:00

Even big boys like to have cuddles with their mum and occasionally fall asleep in mum's arms.

Happy 4th B'day Emily!

2010-07-28T05:06:00.008-05:00

Emily has now turned 4 (which means that her chronological age has now caught up with what I thought she has been all year). She had a small dress up party with a few kinder friends, where they made crowns, played pin the tail on the donkey, pass the parcel and danced to "The Fairies" for hours. The phrase of the day was "wow, it's what I always wanted", this was said about many presents as well as her b'day fairy house cake. On her actual b'day Nanny and Poppy came over for a b'day dinner and she again had a lovely time playing and being the center of attention. Happy Birthday Emily !

Emily: "wow, it's what I always wanted!"

Emily in her new dress up fairy dress.

Happy b'day and cake once the big kids came home from school.

Afternoon tea with friends.

B'day cake with Nanny and Poppy turned into cuddles at the dinner table.

Emily's birthday ended with a story from poppy and cuddles on the couch. What a lucky 4yr old!

Some of Emily's new bedroom decorations - now she feels like a princess!

June School holidays

2010-07-24T05:10:00.005-05:00

The June school holidays saw the Melbourne Walkers head north to spend a week with the Brisbane Walkers and try out some winter sun. There wasn't much winter sun but there was lots of fun for the whole family with a trip to Dreamworld and to Seaworld. The kids are already planning where we should go next time we go to visit Grandma and Pa!

Review of May

2010-07-05T05:38:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I've been a bit slack and haven't updated the blog since April. So here are a few snaps from May to give you an insight into some of the things we got up to....

Abi and Emily have snuggle time - so cute!

Mothers day at Lisa and Phil's house - the two mums! This is what makes mothers day special - good times and lots of laughs.

Abi finally lost her first tooth!

Angus and Emily had a long wait while their toys got a wash...

The grown up family out for dinner at Crown towers - a great night out.

Angus turns 2

2010-04-09T02:51:00.004-05:00

Angus had a fantastic day on his 2nd b'day. "my b'day" "me 2" and "my b'day party" were the most used phrases for the day. Thomas trains were the theme of the day and we now have enough track to last a life time. He had a small party which was just enough excitement for a boy of 2yrs. What a happy bubbly 2 yr old he is, happy b'day Angus!

Angus was pretty pleased with his roller coaster track.
Party food for dinner... yummy!

Wow, a Thomas train on my b'day cake!

Everyone got a turn at blowing out the candles.

More Easter photos

2010-04-09T02:25:00.002-05:00

Here are some more Easter photos, for some reason couldn't get them on the other Easter posting... so anyway here is our Mum relaxing after a hard day in the kitchen. During our Easter concert the light fell from the ceiling.... the sky is falling, the sky is falling (gotta love brand new houses!)

Everyone got into the Easter egg hunt.

The kids already eating some eggs.

Dancing Queens

2010-04-09T00:41:00.003-05:00

The girls are starting dancing this term so we went out over the holidays to get ballet costumes. Of course, like all good woman, they needed to try everything on and demonstrate their dancing skills for Daddy.

Easter 2010

2010-04-06T06:19:00.004-05:00

Easter was spent at the Pike retreat and we all had a very relaxing (but somehow tiring) time filled with games (both ball and board games), far too much eating and general good times.
The kids got into the theme and got to have a 'practise' hunt on Friday, they found these ears and some chocolate, not a bad for good Friday.
Before heading out for more Easter egg hunting we were treated to a puppet show by Kellie and Lisa telling us all about the true meaning of Easter. If their day jobs don't work out then they could certainly go into the entertainment business - the show was a hit.

Having fully understood that eggs are about the celebration of new life, we set out on our Easter egg hunt.

When not hunting for eggs the Aunties and kids got into the swing of things...

Angus loved playing ball sports on the front lawn, his most used phrase of the weekend was "play ball" followed closely by "shot!" Just missed it this time though.

Easter parade

2010-03-31T05:21:00.003-05:00

Emily had a lovely Easter brunch at kinder with her special friend Abbey. She did a fantastic job of doing all the actions to the chicken dance and confidently showed off her Easter bonnet. (Only 3 more Easter parades to go, not that we're counting (they are very cute).)

The 3 kids before leaving for the Brunch. Angus enjoying the play equipment.

Emily and Abbie with their Easter bonnets.

Emily looking very proud of herself after her great dancing.

Fresh produce

2010-03-30T19:13:00.003-05:00

Considering we have spent very little time out in the garden this year we have been especially pleased with our bountiful crops. Most impressive was the peach tree harvest and most recently the pumpkins. We have also enjoyed many a strawberry, cherry tomato and the odd massive zucchini (great for pickles).

Emily's first day of preschool

2010-03-30T18:35:00.002-05:00

Emily had a good start to the kinder year, she LOVES kinder and wishes she could go everyday. Here are some snaps of her first day of 3yr old preschool.

Sarah's Wedding

2010-02-10T05:21:00.005-05:00

The weekend in Portfairy for Sarah and Aaron's wedding was very tiring but very worth the long drive. It was so nice being back in PFairy and such a beautiful location for such a beautiful bride. Sarah looked amazing and thanks to Phil B it was a really lovely ceremony. Don't have many good photos but here is a selection anyway.

The dinner on Friday night was fun for the whole family!

Kellie made sure we all had food in our tummies for the big day

At the church - Sarah was beautiful!

Before getting to the church - the Walker family.

Emily and Abi looked very cute indeed.

Lloyd and mini me

Emily (and Abi) did such a good job walking down the isle by themselves.

first day of school

2010-02-04T01:03:00.004-05:00

Well it finally arrived - Abi's first day of school. She admitted she was "a bit scared" but Mum didn't admit that she was " a lot scared". Smiles all round though and the day went very well, of course it helped to have a best friend by her side.

Cuddles make you brave... school is so much better with friends by your side.

Ok, so I think I can do this...

Camping at Rosebud

2010-02-03T21:51:00.005-05:00

We had an interesting time camping over the summer holidays. The weather ranged from 40 degree heat one day to pouring rain and freezing cold the next but despite the trying conditions we all enjoyed ourselves and will certainly go camping again. does anyone know this homeless boy?

Story time in the tent.

Aunty Kellie and Uncle Roland came for a visit

Beach time!

Can't have a summer holiday without a carnival!

A very merry Christmas

2010-01-05T00:35:00.005-05:00

We all had a fantastic time at Nanny and Poppy's house for Christmas and boxing day.

more photos to come....

Edendale farm

2009-12-06T23:05:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago we had a lovely afternoon at Edendale farm with Aunty Kellie.

She showed us how to lay an egg, and of course Angus and Emily thought they might give it a try too.

Abi was very industrious ticking off all the animals we saw.

It's a 60's thing

2009-12-06T22:49:00.002-05:00

A good look don't you think???

Cute kids

2009-11-08T05:50:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I'm biased but let's face it - they are cute!

Geelong trip

2009-11-08T04:21:00.003-05:00

Saturday of cup weekend we headed to Geelong to visit Aunty Sarah and (Uncle) Aaron, oh, and to do some swimming and playing.

Rolling down a hill never gets old.

WEEEEEE!!!!

The men at the top of the hill keeping watch over their woman folk.

Big cuddles with Aunty Sarah.

Abigail turns 6

2009-10-24T06:54:00.005-05:00

It's hard to believe but Abi had her 6th b'day this month. She wanted to go to an indoor play centre and I'm not sure who enjoyed it more - the adults or kids! We then had a family b'day at Eynesbury to share with Kellie. Happy B'day Abi and Kellie!
Abi going around the world.

Eating icecream cake - all good!

"Do you think I can eat it all myself?"

All kids, great and small enjoyed the fun (yes, that's Bob/ grandpa with Angus!)

Two cakes in two days - all good!

Port Douglas

2009-10-24T05:34:00.005-05:00

September saw the Walker clan take a wonderful holiday to Port Douglas with Grandma and Grandpa. We swam everyday (most days twice), saw many sights (Daintree rainforest, skyrail, snorkeling, sunset cruises, markets and playgrounds were just some of the things we packed in). We went back to Brisbane for a rest and got some retail therapy in. A great couple of weeks away - see some pics below.

Swimming at Mossman Gorge - what a beautiful spot.

The whole clan on the train down from Kuranda.

Holidays are such tiring work.

Luckily Angus woke up in time to enjoy the 'toot toot' ride, it was a bit of a hit with him.
Some local wide life!

On our romantic sunset cruise.... aahhh.

On our day trip to Lowe Isle. A great day on the boat with some snorkeling and swimming with turtles... very exciting.

Abi in front of the boat.

Visitors

2009-09-14T05:33:00.002-05:00

Back in August we had a lovely visit from Sally and Julian with baby Thomas. It was great to see Sally and meet little Tom.

Happy 3rd B'day Emily

2009-07-31T07:50:00.007-05:00

Emily had a lovely 3rd b'day, with lots of presents, love of friends and lots of cake. She is now nearly a grown up apparently. Emily loved her new dolls house... so did Angus!

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On a cold Winters day we ventured to the park to celebrate Emily's 3rd b'day. Even though the parents found it a little on the chilly side the kids had a great time running around.

July holiday fun

2009-07-17T01:27:00.007-05:00

The school holidays have come and gone, so what did the Walker's get up to I hear you ask. Well as you can see it was quite cold (being Winter and all) but we still managed to get out to some parks with friends, went out to Kinglake for a concert and help out cleaning up the paddocks.
At the park with Nyah and at the local park - puddles are good!

At the park with 'little Jack'

Our drive out to Kinglake for the concert.

Poppy was very tired after the drive up the mountain...

Cleaning the paddocks with Aunty Kellie

Ma and Pa visit

2009-07-04T05:14:00.003-05:00

Ma and Pa came for a vist at the start of the school holidays. After a busy weekend of spending the day at St Kilda and going to the train park,

it was time to spend some quiet days at home where Grandma passed on her cooking wisdom to the girls.

June has come and gone

2009-07-04T05:00:00.003-05:00

June has come and gone with not much excitment in the Walker house hold. Angus got some practise talking on the phone
and then thought he might like to see what a felt tip pen would taste like... June brought some very beautiful (and cold) froggy mornings (fog according to Emily = froggy and that was about it for June.

Weekend in Warragul

2009-05-26T06:20:00.005-05:00

After spending so much time focusing on the extension and work we thought it high time to have some focused family time. We decided to visit Aunty Kellie and Uncle Roland in Warragul for the weekend. On the way we stopped off at Gyumba park where we got to have a racing car (lawn mower in a car) drive, a play on playground equipment and see some interesting birds and animals. It was then onto the farm - the kids love the scenic tour of all the different aged calves and big fat cows (pregnant cows) and loved to see how the cows were milked.
The next day we headed off to the local pool for a family swim fest - both the girls are doing really well, Abi is swimming without floaties and Emily is doing well with just floaties. Angus took a while to start enjoying being in the water but eventually got the hang of it.
All in all we had a fantastic weekend, it was just nice to have no 'work' to do and just hang out with our beautiful kids and my lovely sister.

Party in the park

2009-05-24T07:11:00.006-05:00

We went to a party in the park the other weekend. It was great, there was a swing for each of the kids. It's a hard life though, when the only place you can get some sleep is on the play equipment.

Look who's walking!

2009-05-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

Our little baby is now officially a big boy - he's now trying to walk as much as he crawls. He still crawls when speed is required... so most of the time he reverts to a crawling when chasing sisters is needed.

2009-05-10T05:26:00.003-05:00

We went out for a mothers day lunch on Saturday with mummy Pike and her daughters and mummy Walker and her kids. It was a beautiful sunny day and we all enjoyed spending time together (we did miss Belsa) and the girls enjoyed doing some exploring with Poppy.

random photos

2009-05-10T05:15:00.003-05:00

Here are some random photos from the last few weeks.
After having a story read by mum or dad, the girls have taken to reading a story in bed - following along to a CD story (we have a collection from the library). Very cute I must say.
Angus thinks it's great fun being a big boy sitting up at the big kids table.
Abi and Mum ready for mothers night at kinder.

Cider festival

2009-05-10T04:58:00.002-05:00

We popped into the Kellybrook cider festival at the start of the month. Lloyd was able to secure a significant amount of scrumpy cider and the kids managed to get their mouths around (well almost) a fresh toffee apple. Angus was allowed to have an apple on the stick and he was more than happy that, although he is into sharing at the moment.

Easter at the Pikes

2009-04-19T08:09:00.005-05:00

We spent Easter Saturday and Sunday at Nanny and Poppy's with others from the Pike clan. The usual activities occurred - feeding the fish, eating lots of chocolate, posing for photos. There were a few other new activities as well - catching butterflies, playing with a circus set as well singing happy b'day to Lloyd.

Our Owl friend

2009-04-04T21:53:00.004-05:00

We have had a recent spate of animal encounters - I have seen an owl, possum and wombat all in the last week - I love living in the 'country'.

B'day celebrations for Angus

2009-04-04T21:00:00.004-05:00

We decided to have Angus's b'day and dedication a few weeks early so that everyone could make the special day. Angus decided that even though he's not quite one it was a good time to start practicing his walking. He had a lovely time showing off at his party and of course he had lots of help blowing out his one candle.

Mushroom boy

2009-03-02T18:28:00.003-05:00

Angus got his very own bike helmet on the weekend and Mum got a new bike, so now the whole family can go riding together. Unfortunately the helmet makes him look like a mushroom, a cute mushroom, but still a mushroom.

Angus needed some practise first on something a bit smaller...

then he graduated to the back of Dad's bike.

Hello sunshine

2009-03-02T18:10:00.004-05:00

Here is our beautiful sunflower. We did plant another 5 but only one survived the journey from seedling to fully grown flower... oh well, maybe next year we'll have a bumper crop.

Hammock cuddles

2009-02-25T06:15:00.002-05:00

It's always good to have a cuddle or relax in the Hammock.

Sprung

2009-02-25T06:06:00.002-05:00

Angus has a new favourite activity... cleaning out Scally's water bowl, or is it that I don't give him enough to drink so he has to drink from the dog bowl? Either way, he does enjoy his outdoor bath and as soon as the door is open he's outside in a flash.

Picnic in the park

2009-02-18T06:14:00.003-05:00

After the stress of the previous week of bushfires I decided we needed to get out and have a fun day at the park. And what better way to spend an afternoon in the park than with family. Kellie, Lisa and Phil B had souvlaki's as the kids had already had rolls at Aunty Lisa's, but Angus was obviously still hungry and had to resort to eating his feet. Everyone had a really relaxing day so it was mission accomplished. I think that both kids and grown ups alike had their fair share of fun.

Kids at play

2009-02-18T05:56:00.004-05:00

Angus is all smiles even though he has been busy growing some teeth.

Angus has developed a love for the outdoors and attempts to get out any chance he can get. He has reverted to trying to break down the front door and at time bashing on the windows in an attempt to escape.

The girls and Daddy made a cubby and all three kids got to enjoy some quiet reading time in it before bed.

There is movement at the station...

2009-01-31T17:41:00.003-05:00

Angus in now officially on the move and quite excited about exploring the house. He has already pulled the dog's water bowl over on top of himself and found out where his big sisters sleep.

Brisbane Walkers visit

2009-01-27T18:49:00.003-05:00

Grandma, Pa and Aunty Bec came for a visit over the holidays. It was just in time for Grandma's b'day. To celebrate, we had a day at the Art Gallery and then some cake at home.
Another day we went out to Wombat bend park, which was fantastic. Lots to do for the whole family!

Holidays cont...

2009-01-27T06:04:00.003-05:00

As the holidays continue to warm up the girls have had the chance to wear their Christmas t-shirts from the Pommy cousins. They have been little 'London' girls quite a lot.
After having some lunch with Nanny and Poppy the girls got to have a train ride. Angus had a very serious look on his face the whole time - he just could not work out what was going on.

Aquarium

2009-01-13T05:43:00.003-05:00

Our last day spent with Jo and Darren was a the Aquarium. It was very busy inside but the kids still enjoyed seeing the fish, turtles and of course the penguins. After seeing enough and feeling crammed in enough we went for a walk along the river to get some Trampoline ice cream. As you can see, Emily thought this was a great idea (but she was not as impressed as Lloyd with his 4 scoop cup!)

Warrandyte river fun

2009-01-13T04:56:00.002-05:00

We took Jo and Darren (and kids) to the Warrandyte river for a play the other day. It was a beautiful afternoon; warm weather, good friends and a nice picnic on the banks of the river.

New Years Eve

2009-01-13T00:47:00.003-05:00

Emily thought New Years might be a fancy dress party.
New Years Eve was spent with the Adkins team (Kellie and Roland). Scally was very excited about getting a walk for new years from her favourite friend, Roland (my new years resolution is to walk her more often). We all had a lovey picnic in the park, where there was plenty of swinging, bike riding, eating chocolate and general enjoyment. New years day brought a picnic of another kind, not quite as filling but just as fun.

The after party...

Boxing Day

2008-12-30T06:23:00.004-05:00

By Boxing day the Walkers were starting to feel better and the Pike clan hadn't started to fall like flies yet, so there was time for a bit of plane spotting (courtesy of Aaron). We also managed to play a bit a of volleyball (Abi and Emily's present).

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T06:07:00.003-05:00

Christmas was a Pike family affair this year and by all accounts it was a sharing caring time. The Walkers managed to give gastro to the complete Pike clan and we were very careful not to miss anyone out! To quote Abi who said on Christmas morning, "I'm too sick for presents".
Christmas day for Abi. Feeling a bit better now.
Angus and Emily still managed a smile and Angus enjoyed his first Christmas.

Rosebud

2008-12-30T05:45:00.005-05:00

Before Christmas we headed down to Rosebud to see Jo and Darren who were over from Canada. We managed to get some good beach weather (for one day) and Emily took the opportunity to lay around and enjoy the waves. When we couldn't be at the beach we spent time at the park and enjoying good old Ozzie BBQ's. Princess Abi was with us for most of the time and her dress ups certainly needed a wash when we got home.

Back to nature

2008-12-14T05:20:00.004-05:00

We had a visit from Aunty Kellie who made some crowns from leaves for the kids. We thought Angus looked pretty cute in his all natural head dress (he may not think so in a few years time, oh well).

Ma and Park

2008-12-14T05:05:00.003-05:00

Grandma and Park (Emily's word for grandpa) came for a visit last weekend. It happened to coincide with Abi's kinder Christmas concert so they got to see a great rendition of Rudolph the red nose reindeer. Whilst Bob and Chris were here we also had the chance to catch up with Julian and Kush and they got to have some baby holding practice.

Christmas tree decorations 2008

2008-12-14T04:54:00.003-05:00

With the festive season upon us we thought it time to put up the Christmas tree. Everyone helped, although Angus thought it was more fun to eat the decorations rather than actually put them on the tree.

Emily beauty treatment

2008-12-14T04:50:00.001-05:00

Emily thought she might start her own beauty regime and use nappy rash zinc cream as an all over moisturiser.

Angus on the move

2008-11-05T22:56:00.003-05:00

Angus has discovered the world of movement. First he got to go in the jolly jumper and then he had a go in the swing. The pictures tell the story... he loves to be on the move!

Trip to Glenthompson

2008-10-30T05:30:00.005-05:00

Mum and the kids went on a road trip to visit some old school friends. We stayed on Janna's farm and the kids had a great time exploring the old petrol pump, looking into the paddocks and wandering the lanes. We went on a flower hunt and found many many beautiful specimens.

On Saturday we then went out to Casterton to visit Kate and the kids got to have a swim, Angus got to have a ride on a bike and have a little rest in Janna's arms.

The only thing left was for a horse ride on Francesca (who I used to ride many moons ago) and our trip to the country was complete.

Family B'day celebration

2008-10-27T19:38:00.002-05:00

Abi got to have a second party with the Pike family. There was lots of cuddles (as always), a bit of drinking as well as some trampoline fun. Being a beautiful warm day we got to sit outside and have dinner on the deck.

Happy 5th Birthday Abigail

2008-10-27T19:21:00.005-05:00

Abigail's birthday was on Friday 17th and after kinder we went for a BBQ and party in the park. It was a beautiful sunny day and everyone enjoyed the party food, pink My little pony cake, treasure hunt and cup cake decorations.

The birthday girl

Angus spent most of the time in the pram just watching the action.< Emily enjoyed the cup cakes!

Bike riding

2008-10-12T05:57:00.004-05:00

Since Lloyd got Sarah's old bike earlier in the year we have talked about family bike riding days. The girls had a shopping trip for new bike helmets the other day and I finally got around to getting a child seat for Emily (Ebay - pick up around the corner from home!) and we all went out for a ride (well not really, Angus had a pram ride and I had to walked). Abi had a fall and the first thing she said was "lucky I had my helmet on" so it was all good. Once Angus is big enough to go in the child seat I can get a bike and start riding too - an open invite to family and friends if you ever wish to join us!

Abi zooming along and Lloyd off track going cross country - no point having a bike with good shocks if you don't use them!

Sept school holidays

2008-10-06T01:21:00.009-05:00

On the school holidays we have been very busy (as always). There has been lots of bouncing on the trampoline, a few parties to go to - one dressed as fairies - then Grandma came down and we went to the museum which was not only very educational but a lot of fun. Later in the week we went to visit the Ditcham's at the beach and stopped off to see Aunty Sarah. When Pa came down at the end of the week we went out to the farm at Bundoora park. Abi was very brave and went on the flying fox and we all got to have a tractor ride. There was always time for snuggles and stories and a few swings as well. Somewhere in there the girls managed to go on their first fishing trip with Poppy. So we all had a great holiday time and need to get back to Kinder for a rest! Angus enjoyed the mirrors at the kids section at the museum. Although it wasn't exactly warm, the kids enjoy playing at the beach, even Angus got his feet sandy. Emily and her special friend Kate. The animals in the tractor cage...
Brave Abi on the flying fox. Snuggle time with Grandma. An interesting fishing trip for Poppy with two little girls. After lunch out we all went to the park and Angus had his first swing, courtesy of Pa.

Mothering is a learned behaviour

2008-09-22T06:53:00.002-05:00

The girls have been doing a lot mothering lately. Emily likes to 'feed' her dolly and Abi has managed to design up her own baby carrier for her dolly.