Category: Wednesday W’s (Page 10 of 13)

What’s top of my mind: He was found guilty!

Over the course of these Wednesday W’s I’ve mentioned that I’ve been listening to ‘The Teacher’s Trial’, a podcast about the ongoing trial of Christopher Dawson, who was accused of murdering his first wife 40 years ago. He was only brought to justice when a podcast about Lynette Dawson’s disappearance, called ‘The Teacher’s Pet’, was made in 2018 and revived interest in this very cold case.

In the 1980’s Chris Dawson was a professional rugby player who was also a PE teacher. He groomed and had a sexual relationship with a student and clearly became obsessed with her. Three days after his wife inexplicably disappeared, leaving behind all her belongings (including her contact lenses), he moved this teenager into his home and bed, telling her, “Lyn’s not coming back.”

Supposedly Lyn, the devoted mother of two little girls aged 2 and 4, deserted everyone in her life to go and live in a commune somewhere. It sounds dodgy as, doesn’t it? Yet for forty years he was able to live his life, raise those little girls and tell the world that Lynette was a selfish person who deserted him.

He literally nearly got away with murder.

Where I’ve been: nowhere.

Where I’m going: my sister’s place for Fathers Day.

It’ll be nice to catch up. I think we’re having scones and jam and cream. Yum!

What I’m watching: Better Call Saul.

I’m midway through season 5. Not too long to go!

What I’m reading: Police at the Station and They Don’t Look Friendly – McKinty.

This is the 6th and last Sean Duffy book. This series is really good and I’ve been enjoying them. I just picked up another Adrian McKinty book, ‘The Chain’, and I’m looking forward to sinking my teeth into it once all my marking is done.

What I’m listening to: ‘I want to know that I will be Okay’ by Dierdre Sullivan.

This is a collection of short stories and they’re wonderful. I’m about a third of the way through and there’s a story about a little girl’s imaginary friend that had me riveted.

What I’m eating: My words.

I said I’d never do any marking again, yet here we are.

Surprisingly though, I’m quite enjoying it. I’m currently marking year 9 projects about food insecurity. Each student has been assigned a different country, so even though the tasks they’re doing are all the same, the material I’m reading is different, so it keeps it interesting.

I was in the zone yesterday, so I stayed back until 4:30 to knock over the second class. I’ll have all 3 classes done by the end of the week.

Next week the Antarctica projects are due from the year 8s – the very reason I took on this contract!

What I’m planning: To enjoy next week.

I have 3 days where I’m not working next week – 2 parent/teacher days and a professional development day – and I’m looking forward to it. Who knows how I’ll spend those days? That’s the beauty of it.

Who needs a good slap: Cheating students.

I don’t need this hassle!

What has made me smile: watching ‘Better Call Saul’ with Ryan27.

He’s leaving on the weekend to house sit with a friend for a couple of months, after only getting back a few days ago from another house sit. It’s nice spending time with him.

Dad joke of the day:

(And yes, I know it’s Thursday. As I said, I was in the zone with the marking yesterday and I’ve learned that when I’m in that mind space, I need to keep going! I’m writing this before school.)

What’s top of my mind: It’s HUMP DAY!

Today is the midpoint of my 7-week stint of working full time AND it’s also a payday, which sweetens the deal even more. It’s all a sweet slide downhill from here, baby!

I’ll probably write a full post on how I’m finding it all, seeing as I’m at this point of the contract. It’s been interesting in a few different ways.

Where I’ve been: Out to dinner.

I have a friend that I met when Evan25 was a tiny little Evan2. Every now and then we catch up, usually for lunch or dinner. Over the last couple of years, I’ve hosted dinner at mine to avoid being around lots of people in a crowded restaurant. Seems a bit silly to wear a mask everywhere I go and then court covid by eating a meal that I can just as easily make at home.

However, we went to eat at an Indian/Nepalese restaurant in Mordialloc. When we first arrived there were only 3 other couples there and I was relieved. But then, of course, half of Melbourne stampeded in and the place was packed.

It was noisy, so I didn’t wear a mask because I knew my friend wouldn’t be able to hear me if I did. The food was good – although the Butter Chicken was way too sweet – but being around lots of people without masks, all projecting their voices in a confined space started to worry me. I was pleased to catch up with my friend, but I was glad when we decided to go.

Where I’m going: Jenna’s play.

Evan25’s girlfriend is acting, directing and producing a play written by one of her friends. I’m taking myself along to see it on Friday night. Selfishly, I wish that it was closer, but it’s in North Melbourne. *sigh*

What I’m watching: The Block.

I don’t watch a lot of free-to-air shows but The Block is one of the few shows I’m prepared to sit through ads to see.

What I’m reading: The Sean Duffy novels.

I’m really enjoying this series. They’re set in Belfast, Ireland, during the Troubles in the 1980’s, which up until now was a time I knew very little about. I remember seeing riots and bombings on the news sometimes, but it was all so far away on the other side of the world.

Sean Duffy is a Catholic policeman, working in the predominantly Protestant police force of Belfast. The author is clearly a music lover, as the novels are chock-full of music references, which as a person living through their 20’s in the 1980’s, brings back many memories. The plots are suspenseful and I’m reaching the ends desperate to see how they turn out.

I’m onto the third book, with 3 more to go. Would recommend.

What I’m listening to: The little woofs.

At first, they used to start barking when they heard the gate opening, but now they’re waiting until I walk onto the front verandah. As I’m putting my key to the door I can hear the girls start going nuts, describing how they’ve been left alone all day like animals, while Jeffrey just chills and waits on the couch for me to come to him.

I’m sure the whole street can hear when I’m home.

What I’m eating: Biccies and cheese.

Every now and then we have morning tea provided for us. Fruit, sweet biscuits and biccies and cheese. It’s a nice little treat and it sets you up for the rest of the day. 🙂

What I’m planning: Nothing.

I’m just living my life, one day at a time.

Who needs a good slap: ME.

Well, not so much now, but if I ever sign up for such a long stint of work again, then yes. Definitely slap me.

What has made me smile: Today.

I’m chuffed that I’ve reached the halfway point. For a while there I was feeling like I wasn’t making progress at all…

Dad joke of the day:

Genie: So what is your final wish?

Me: I wish I was you.

Genie: Weurd, but alrught.

What’s top of my mind: One of the loveliest things about driving to work.

When I don’t have to be anywhere, my mornings tend to start slowly, with the little woofs and I on the couch all snuggled up, me with my laptop on my lap and a coffee. It’s lovely.

But what’s also lovely is when I’m driving to work along the freeway extension and I see hot air balloons hanging in the air on their way to Moorabbin Airport.

This morning there were only three of them. The clouds were dove-grey, almost blue and the balloons looked as if they were highlighted. It’s a sight I’d never see from my house and I really love it.

Where I’ve been: My parents’ place.

Mum and Dad aren’t having a fun time at the moment. They’re 82 and 84 respectively and they’ve both suffered major health problems recently. Dad has had a hip replacement that isn’t healing well and Mum fell a couple of months ago and fractured her pelvis and also compressed a couple of vertebrae.

Their lives at the moment revolve around going to doctors’ appointments, doing rehab exercises and taking pills. Mum doesn’t drive anymore. My sister Kate drives down from the peninsula every week and takes Mum to the pool for her exercises and then takes her out to lunch and to do some shopping.

Now that I’m down in the area near them every weekday, I’m dropping in a couple of times a week, usually Mondays and Fridays. I figure that it gives a good spread of visitors and we can keep an eye on them.

Where I’m going: Shopping for Antarctica clothes.

Sometime this week I’ll be going to Anaconda to look for waterproof trousers, a waterproof coat, hat and scarf. It’s dawned on my mighty intellect that time is galloping towards my December 1 lift-off date, so I’d better start getting my act together.

I also have to see if I need visas for Argentina and Chile as well.

What I’m watching: Spring coming to my garden.

It’s stressing me out! I’ve been lazy and I haven’t done as much as I should have with regards to getting both my front garden and the veggie garden ready for the warmer weather.

I’m going to have to get my arse into gear this weekend and start throwing fertiliser, autumn leaves and sugarcane mulch around. Before I know where I am, I’ll be wanting to start planting seedlings for our summer crops.

What I’m reading: Behind Her Eyes – Sarah Pinborough

Ugh. I hate ads for books that say “With a SHOCKING TWIST!!!” because more than half the time they’re trying to sell a mediocre book whose ‘twist’ you can see coming a mile off. So if you click on the link, ignore that part, because this book is actually pretty good.

I went in cold, not having seen this ad. I just borrowed it from my library’s eReader app because I needed a book to take with me. I enjoyed it, even with the touch of magic realism that I’m normally not drawn to.

Would recommend.

What I’m listening to: A Family of Strangers – Fiona Lowe.

This is a monster of an audiobook, running at around 16 hours long. It’s good for the commute, though having listened to a lot of Fiona Lowe’s novels this year, I’ve realised that she’s certainly very fond of using a metaphor! Her books are packed with them!

Her books are great for getting involved with a community and delving deep into the characters’ lives.

What I’m eating: Cauliflower Cheese and Macaroni Cheese.

Ryan27 has been living at a friend’s place for the last few weeks and he’s coming home today. Cauliflower Cheese is his favourite meal. He even requests it on his birthdays when he could have any meal he wants!

Tome30 hates cauliflower cheese with a passion, but he’s partial to macaroni cheese… both are exactly the same dish with just the main ingredient substituted. I even bake them in the same dish.

So tonight, I’ll be keeping both guys happy and having a super easy meal prep as well. These childhood dishes are the gift that keeps on giving.

What I’m planning: A hot air balloon ride.

It occurred to me as I was looking for the photo at the top of this post that I should make one of my Little Adventures next year a hot air balloon ride. I won’t do it this year – Antarctica will be my focus – but next year? A different story.

When I took a helicopter ride two years ago when I stayed in Albury, I knew that every time I saw a helicopter in the sky from that time on, I’d think back to that experience.

Might be nice to be able to do that when I see early morning balloons on the drive into work. I think it’d certainly sweeten the morning.

Who needs a good slap: Me, for leaving the hatch open on the car when it rained.

It’s been a week since I discovered that my boot was awash with water. I’m STILL having to leave the hatch open, with the spare tyre taken out and leaning against the back, whenever I’m home and the weather is fine. I thought I was nearly finished until I got home yesterday and checked. The carpet underneath the tyre was still wet.

ARGH.

What has made me smile: the flowers Tom30 bought me.

Five weeks ago Tom30 bought me a bunch of yellow daisies to thank me for the help I gave him when he was buying his unit. FIVE WEEKS later the flowers are still going strong.

I can’t believe it! I’ve trimmed the stalks a couple of times and we change the water in the vase when we think of it, but those daisies are still as cheery as they were when he brought them home.

It’s a miracle.

Dad joke of the day:

Went to a restaurant dressed as a tennis ball.

Got served immediately.

What’s top of my mind: Do I go to Aldi after posting this?

I’ve pulled out some roast pumpkin from the freezer to make a pasta/pumpkin bake for dinner, but I’ve just realised that we don’t have any ham.

*sigh* I don’t feel like making this a ‘spend’ day.

Where I’ve been: Having a nice goss in the staff room.

Today was a particularly nice day for socialising. Had some great convos in both recess and lunch.

There are some things that I’m regretting about choosing to work full-time for 7 weeks, (such as alarms in the early morning and having to mark some projects), but the conversations with other teachers are great.

Where I’m going: to some Sex Ed classes.

Yep. The year 9s are having a day off from regular classes and they’re doing this instead. I’ll be supervising a class on ‘Consent’ and then a class on ‘Porn vs Reality.’ The other class they’re all doing is on contraception, but I was teaching my year 8s then.

Should be fun.

What I’m watching: The Block.

I absolutely love this show. I’m so happy it’s back on. I’m even prepared to sit through the ads on free-to-air television to watch it – THAT’S how much I like it.

What I’m reading: The Things We Keep – Sally Hepworth

I’ve just started this. It’s her second (I think) novel and it’s set in a care home for Alzheimers. I think I’m going to like this one.

What I’m listening to: Aussie Firebug Matt Ridley podcast.

I’m only part-way through this episode but I’m loving it. Matt Ridley is the author of ‘The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves‘, which is a book I’ve never heard of before but it’s one I’ll definitely be buying.

I’ve always said that one of the secrets to happiness is being a student of history. When you know how rough life was back in the ‘good old days’, then how could you NOT be happy to be born in the here and now?

For example: look at me. Where in history could I, a woman, be educated; own my own property; be able to escape an unhappy marriage through a divorce; gain custody of the boys after that divorce; have a career that enabled me to comfortably support us without having to rely upon a man’s wage; to be able to survive a difficult childbirth (Tom30 and I would’ve died in the olden days, without a doubt) and go on to have 3 more healthy children through caesarians; be one of the common folk yet still have traveled to 5 continents of the world (so far) and be able to retire early and look forward to decades of freedom?

Not many women in history were able to do all of this. Probably not many men either, if it comes to that.

Ridley talks about how, over the course of history, human life has been getting better. He’s preaching to the choir as far as I’m concerned, obviously, but I’m absolutely enjoying how he speaks and the way he chooses his words. It’s a pleasure to listen to.

I’ll definitely be buying ‘The Rational Optimist‘. It sounds like the sort of book I’ll want to have around.

What I’m eating: Stewed fruit from the freezer.

Remember how in the summer I was stewing lots of fruit and freezing them in ice cubes? I’m reaping the rewards in the depths of winter. Stewed fruit with my oats in the morning… mmm mmm!

What I’m planning: killing rats.

Does anyone know a good way to kill rats without poisoning them? I don’t want to throw rat bait under the house, have a half-dead rat get out into the yard and have the dogs find it.

The last thing I want to do is poison my own dogs!

Tom30 saw a rat go under the house and something is digging up my spuds. I hate Maths, but it doesn’t take much to put two and two together with this one.

I’d appreciate any tips to get rid of the rats without harming the little woofs. 🙂

Who needs a good slap: the rats.

Hate hate hate rats.

What has made me smile: Seeing Evan25’s play on Saturday night.

Both photos on this post are from Evan25’s play ‘The Marvellous Life of Carlo Gatti’. He played a piano-playing ghost.

Ryan27 and I went to see him. It makes me so happy to see my adult kids performing in the areas that they’re passionate about and are good at.

It makes everything worthwhile.

Dad joke of the day:

What’s top of my mind: how nice some people are.

I’m taking classes for a friend of mine who has gone on Long Service Leave. Yesterday she emailed me: “You may have noticed that there’s a clear pencil case with some items in it. I forgot to tell you that this is for Joe Lunchbucket (not his real name) because he never has any equipment for class. Please give it to him at the start of class and collect it at the end.”

It had a pen, coloured pencils and his Geography workbook.

Obviously this is something that she quietly does for this kid to make sure that he’s able to succeed in her subject. What a lovely thing to do.

Where I’ve been: walking the dogs.

Ryan27 is away from home for a couple of weeks and Tom30 and I are both working, so the poor little woofs have been Home Alone. It’s good for their mental health to have a gallop around the block when I get home.

It probably isn’t too bad for my mental health, either.

Where I’m going: Antarctica.

I know you all know this, but I told a year 8 Geography class that I was going in December and they lost their shit. Seriously.

It was great.

What I’m watching: Hunted.

I NEVER watch things on free-to-air tv – except for Survivor and The Block, obviously. But this show has sucked me in. Thank goodness for catch-up tv though. I’d hate to be stuck watching something on someone else’s schedule.

It seems like a very silly show, but it’s interesting to see how easily the hunters are able to track people down using digital means. CCTV and other digital pinging are everywhere.

I saw that The Block starts again on Sunday night. I’m so happy. I love a good reno filled with drama.

What I’m reading: More Sally Hepworth.

I’ve just started ‘The Mother’s Promise‘ and it’s set in the US.

This took me unawares. I had to change the accents in my head from Aussie (proper speaking) to American (celebrity accents.) I read somewhere that she was always made to set her novels in America until she became successful, then she was able to set them in Melbourne instead.

I guess I’m reading an early novel.

What I’m listening to: the quietest year 8 class I’ve ever seen.

It’s period 6. There’s only 9 minutes to go.

Usually even the best behaved class is getting a little restive. But this group of kids?

Some of them have finished the work and they’re talking. But quietly talking. It’s all whispers and quiet giggles. I tell you, it’s SO worth driving here from The Best House in Melbourne every day, even though there’s a secondary school at the end of my street. These kids are incredible.

What I’m eating: out of the freezer.

I’ve slowly been emptying the meat section of the freezer. I bought a huge heap of chicken drumsticks and parcelled them out into meal-sized lots of 3. Then Tom30 moved back in, which mucked up that little system. Suddenly we’re going through TWO meal’s worth of drummies instead of one.

Annoying.

Tonight is spaghetti bolognese with mince from the freezer. With Ryan27 gone, there’ll be enough for dinner tomorrow night as well, which makes me happy.

Give it another week or two, the freezer will be clear and I can go and buy another big lot of meat. Buying this way means that, over the long run, I save a heap.

What I’m planning: how I’m going to get through 6 weeks of full-time work.

Oof.

I mean, I know I can do it. I did it for nearly two decades, after all.

But my sweet, sweet freedom…

Those penguins, seals, whales and icebergs had better be worth it!

Who needs a good slap: The boys who kept pressing the ‘open door’ button on the lift as I was in it wanting to go up.

Ended up having to take the damn stairs. Two floors aren’t great when you’re wearing a mask and you have to get to class on time.

What has made me smile: three year 9 boys.

I was doing yard duty down the cold, boring side of the new campus. As I rounded a corner, I saw 3 boys acting a little suspiciously. They were obviously leaping around. There was a big brick thingamijig and I thought, ‘If they’re trying to jump over that, I’m going to have to stop them. Accident waiting to happen.’

Then I saw that they were competing in a long jump competition in the woodchips on the garden behind the generator. That’s using great initiative on a campus with hardly any outdoor space. I walked away smiling and left them to it.

Dad joke of the day:

What’s top of my mind: Today’s the day!!!!

My car is packed, I have a shopping list of food to buy, and after work today I’ll be pointing the car towards Ballarat. The Girls’ weekend is fast approaching!

I’m heading off a couple of days earlier than the girls, so I’m looking forward to some introvert quiet days before they all start rolling in on Friday night.

Where I’ve been: avoiding Ryan27.

Last Tuesday Ryan27 tested positive in a RAT test. ARGH!!!! Right before this girls’ weekend that I’ve been planning for months. Fortunately, he’s a reasonable man and isolated in his room. No real hardship for a gamer!

I RAT tested every day and picked up all the work I could so I’d be out of the house as much as possible. I was so worried that I’d have to miss out on the trip, but all was well. I mask up all the time when I’m at work so I did the same thing at home.

All’s good. I avoided getting the spicy cough. 🙂

Where I’m going: To Coles.

I’m in the middle of a Flybuys challenge to spend $50 at Coles for 4 straight weeks to get $50 free groceries. I figured I may as well shop at Coles for the dinners and snacks I’m providing. I like killing two birds with one stone.

What I’m watching: a very good year 9 Geography class.

Their teacher has left an incredibly detailed lesson plan for them to follow and they’re quietly working their way through it.

Every conversation is about how to locate things on the maps, or what to put on the keys, etc. Sometimes this place is an absolute dream to teach in!

Since writing this, I have another year 9 class in front of me. This one is a different kettle of fish…

What I’m reading: The Hate You Give.

I’ve been seeing a lot of kids reading this over the last few years – it’s a catchy title! I thought I’d give it a read to see why it’s so popular. I’m only just past the first chapter but I think I’m going to like it.

What I’m listening to: Home Fires by Fiona Lowe.

I’ve got a long drive in front of me today and all of my podcasts have been listened to. This is a good long audiobook so it should keep me entertained during the drive and when I’m sewing on the 5,000+ piece quilt.

I’m working my way through her novels, one audiobook at a time.

What I’m eating: Vegetarian meals on Friday and Saturday.

Jenna, Evan25’s girlfriend, is vego, so the catering is planned with her in mind.

Friday night’s meal will be Mushroom Stroganoff and a hearty Vegetarian Lasagne will follow on Saturday night. Both are Thermobexta recipes, so of course, I’ve packed my two thermomixes to bring with me. The boys left at home have a thermomix each, so they won’t be left hungry.

What I’m planning: nothing… yet!

We’ll see what the weather holds for Saturday. It looks like it won’t be raining, but of course, being Ballarat, it’ll be damned cold!!!

Who needs a good slap: the idiot who nearly T-Boned me yesterday.

I was on my way home from work, turning right at the intersection of Warrigal and Centre Roads. I glanced away from the red light, looking at a garden on the other side of the road. I glanced back and the green turning arrow was on.

Just as I lifted my foot, someone ran the red light directly to the right of me.

If I’d started moving the instant the arrow turned green as I usually do, I’d have had the front wiped off my car for sure. Or worse.

Phew! I love my car… I don’t want her to be all bent out of shape. Especially the day before a road trip.

What has made me smile: Guesstimating how much petrol to buy at Costco.

The fuel gauge was on a little less than half full. The last time I filled up, it was on the way home from Sydney and a full tank cost me $119.

But Costco petrol is quite a bit cheaper…

I punched in $60.

The tank is now exactly full. Nailed it!

Dad joke of the day:

Yesterday I ate a clock. It was very time-consuming, especially when I went back for seconds.

What’s top of my mind: ARGHHHHHHHHHHHH.

I was so happy this morning, when the news came out that masks are now back in schools. The principal walked around to every class and gave them out to every kid who . As many of you would know, I’ve been wearing a mask at work from the moment I step out of my car to the moment I get back into it at the end of the day, only removing it to eat my lunch.

For the first couple of hours there were masks everywhere. It was lovely.

Then parents apparently started to complain, so an announcement went out at lunchtime that masks weren’t ‘mandatory’, just ‘recommended.’

Now, most of the kids have ditched them and we aren’t allowed to query why they aren’t wearing them. And people wonder why covid is still around.

Where I’ve been: the sewing room.

I had a 3 day weekend, due to the school having Athletics Day on Monday, so I made progress on my 5,000 + piece quilt. As you can see in the photo above, I’m now just over halfway finished.

I’ve been a bit spotty with my work on the quilt, but I’m determined to finish it. This year.

Where I’m going: to work.

Antarctica is proving to be a little expensive, along with wedding and house payments. I’m lucky that a) the work is being offered, b) I like the work and c) the kids are lovely. I’m happy that I don’t have to tap my investments at the moment. I’m happy to wait for the sharemarket to recover.

What I’m watching: Becoming Elizabeth.

I’m a Tudor tragic, which is why I loved my trip to the UK in 2015 so much, especially our day at Hampton Court Palace. The header on this blog is a photo of the sky above the palace’s roof. It still lives in my memory as one of the happiest days of my life.

I’m loving this show.

What I’m reading: Helen Garner’s ‘Regions of Thick-Ribbed Ice.’

This is about her trip to Antarctica, so of course I picked it up. The page I’ve linked to has very positive reviews, but have a look at this one star review!

“Inadvertently thought it was an actual book about Antarctica with some depth then found it merely a chapter of a brief voyage that barely scratched at its border. If I ever get to the Drake passage I will place the sad brief tome in the bottom of a sick-bag where it belongs.”

Hmm… I hope it’s better than this review makes it sound!

What I’m listening to: Mum’s Boppin’ Bangers.

Spotify got me through hours of sewing over the last few days. I have some absolute bangers on that playlist.

What I’m eating: Leftover Chicken Tikka Masala for dinner.

I absolutely love this recipe. It’s like having a party in your mouth.

Having the leftovers the next day is even tastier.

What I’m planning: My girls’ weekend.

I’ve told them that I don’t want this to be a ‘spendy’ weekend, because Izzy has a wedding to pay for, Jenna has a one-woman show to put on and nearly all of them have rent to pay. I, of course, have Antarctica on the horizon.

We’re volunteering catering, alcohol, games, and those who know the area are suggesting activities. It’s going to be a lot of fun.

Who needs a good slap: Whoever gave my son the virus.

Seriously, how hard is it to wear a mask? Oof.

It’s so stupid. I’m in front of a class right now. When the word came down that we can’t make the kids wear masks, you should’ve seen how many kids ditched them. I have 17 kids in front of me… only 6 are wearing masks.

So I guess the waves are going to continue. If we’d all co-operated right at the start and worn masks for 6 months, this pandemic would almost certainly be behind us now.

What has made me smile: sitting and having lunch with my work friends.

I’ve known these people for years and it’s a quiet pleasure to sit down and have a chat. This year the school split into 2 campuses and most of my friends elected (or were told) to come to the new campus, which is where I’ve been doing the vast majority of my CRT work.

Much as I love my hermit days at home, it’s so nice to be social as well. 🙂

Dad joke of the day:

I don’t let my kids listen to orchestral music. There’s too much sax and violins.

What’s top of my mind: Making Ryan27 get his driving licence.

He hates driving. Can you imagine?

But he has a job offer that requires him to be mobile. Operation “Get Your Damned Licence, You Elderly Guy” is on!

Where I’m going: As soon as I press ‘publish, we’ll be out to the car.

Driving lessons wait for no man.

What I’m watching: Poppy sleeping in the sun.

It’s a hard life.

What I’m reading: Stephen King short stories.

I’m midway through The Bazaar of Bad Dreams and I’m loving it. In the foreword, King writes about the differences between crafting long and short fiction, which I found really interesting. (Even more interesting than learning about the periodic table guy!) He also introduces each story with an account of what sparked it.

Love that stuff.

What I’m listening to: My podcasts before I borrow another audiobook.

Most of the audiobooks I listen to are around 16 hours long. As you can imagine, it takes a while to chip away at one of these, so while I’m doing that, my podcast episodes bank up. Then, I take a while to knock those over and get back to a clean slate.

Then the cycle starts over again. The only poddie that I make an exception for is my son’s one, naturally! All I have left on my list is a Casefile and a “The Other Half.” Then I’ll have to grab another audiobook.

It’s the cycle of life.

What I’m eating: Mushroom Stroganoff.

This is turning into an expensive year, what with the wedding, Tom30’s property purchase and Antarctica, so I’ve been making more vegetarian meals to stretch out the meat in the freezer. For those with a thermomix, Thermobexta is my go-to for vego and vegan recipes. I have all but one of her books and they certainly came in handy when Evan25 decided he wasn’t a meat-eater.

I write in my books when I try a recipe. This recipe had a notation, “Really nice,” so I bought lots of mushrooms and we’re partaking tonight.

What I’m planning: My Antarctica wardrobe.

Aldi had some clothing specials on Saturday. Some of them were merino t-shirts and leggings, as well as some gloves that enable the wearer to use a mobile phone. Just what I was looking for!

That’s ticked a few items off the list!

Who needs a good slap: My ex-husband.

You know, if I had 4 kids from my first marriage and two of them have decided to have no contact anymore with me, while another one has only minimal contact, I’m pretty sure I’d make an effort with the only kid who actively pursues a relationship with me. But clearly that’s not the way my ex-husband sees things…

Tom30 put in an offer on a unit last week. The bank came back and said they wanted a 10% deposit, not a 5% deposit as was originally asked for, due to a gift of 15K that I gave him. I’m sure you can imagine the maths and budgeting that went on for him to work out how to gather an extra 24K by October! He’s selling everything that isn’t nailed down and squeezing his spending to the max. However, there was still going to be a small shortfall. He didn’t want to ask me for any more money – “You’ve done more than enough, Mum.”

With a bit of trepidation, he asked his father for a loan of 5K. His father (who apparently earns into the 6 figures, as does his wife) refused, which he has every right to do, but served it with a side-order of “You’re not working hard enough. At your age you should be earning 150K/year. When I got MY first house I had to struggle. You should too. Why don’t you ask your mother or your grandfather? They’re rich.”

What an absolute arsehole. I’m so glad I’m not still married to him. (By the way, these remarks weren’t said exactly like this. They were sprinkled into the conversation like nasty little land mines for Tom30 to be hurt by.)

There are a few things to unpack from those nuggets of bile.

When my ex-husband was 30 he was a small businessman earning nowhere near 150K. Not sure why he expects Tom30 to be doing much better at the same age. When I told friends at work this statement they laughed and laughed. The consensus was, “Yeah, we should ALL be earning 150K!!! I’m nearly 60 and I don’t earn that much!”

I think my ex-husband forgets that when we bought our first (and only) house together, I was the one that made it happen. We’d saved 40K and he wanted to pour it all into buying new fridges for his small business of cutting up fruit salads for supermarkets from our garage. Yes, a business that was obviously going to go nowhere.

I saw which way the wind was blowing, put my foot down and instead, we put the money into buying a house in an excellent secondary school zone. Over the years that decision has served the boys well. So he thinks he ‘struggled’ to get that house? Imagine the struggle we would’ve had if he’d bought those fridges instead?

Finally – who tells his own son to go and ask an elderly couple for money, when all the guy is asking for is a 5K loan? Refuse the money if you wish – it’s your money – but telling him to put the hard word on a frail couple in their 80’s is unconscionable.

Fortunately, this has a happy ending. A family friend who’s known Tom30 all his life, was so disgusted when they heard this story that they’ve agreed to lend him the money he needs at settlement. Tom30’s now obsessed with ensuring that he borrows as little as possible from them. He’s so grateful and relieved.

I just had a text from him 10 minutes ago – the bank has approved the loan and so the property is his!

What has made me smile: Meeting next door’s puppy.

We’ve been hearing Hero for a while, but now we’ve finally met. He’s a blue staffy and is a lovely little guy. The guy next door suggested that we take the dogs and meet at the beach, but Hero is far too full-on for my little woofs. He’d scare them without even knowing he was doing it.

But as far as people go – he’s terrific!

Dad joke of the day:

What’s top of my mind: Double-check things.

Yesterday I drove an hour to surprise David28 at his workplace at Billy Hydes in Nunawading. When I got there, it turned out that he’d taken the day off.

This is the photo I took with his co-workers and sent to him.

Where I’ve been: to a FIRE blog meet!

Last Saturday Latestarterfire, Adulting World and I met up in a park and we had lunch. We talked and shared stories for around 3 hours. Adulting World has been to Antarctica so I picked up some good hints and tips for my upcoming trip in December.

Going to a blog meet is never a mistake.

Where I’m going: ANTARCTICA!

Cruise, flights and accommodation are all booked and paid for. It’s on, baby!!!!!!

What I’m watching: Our Flag Means Death.

I heard some good things about this show and when I scored 3 free months of Binge, I watched it. The first few eps were a little ‘meh’ but by the end of the series, they had me!

Hoping they make another season – it’s all set up for it.

What I’m reading: The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula Le Guin.

I’ve been meaning to read this novel for ages and I finally tracked it down.

It’s about a world that is genderless – beings can swap from male to female and back again.

I’ve only just started reading it so I’m still finding my way into the world, but it’s way famous.

What I’m listening to: Jeff snoring.

Poppy and Jeff are 9 years old today. They’re doing what they do best – sleeping on the couches. Here’s a photo to verify:

Strictly speaking, this is a shot of Poppy and Scout, Jeff’s slam-bang against me on the other couch.

What I’m eating: Aldi hazelnut milk chocolate.

This chocolate has SO MANY HAZELNUTS! It’s divine.

What I’m planning: To stop procrastinating and Get Things Done.

Just off the top of my head there are 7 things I should have done… and haven’t (yet.) They range from gardening things to crafting things to pet things to family things.

I’m a lazy person at heart.

Who needs a good slap: The USA.

Honestly, it seems that the US is going to hell in a handbasket. They need to get a grip on themselves. The divisiveness and vitriol being hurled from one side of politics to the other and then back again are awful to watch. The way they’re going, they’ll have another civil war if they don’t watch out…

What has made me smile: David28’s mortification once he got the photo!

Once I was on my way back home he called and we talked for nearly the whole drive. He had gastro, so that’s why he wasn’t at work. Ironically, we probably talked more than if he was at work and had to attend to customers.

Dad joke of the day:

What’s top of my mind: how lovely it is to travel.

Don’t get me wrong – I love being in The Best House in Melbourne and I’m as happy as a little hermit when I’m there.

But I can’t deny that sitting here on the 5th floor of the Sebel Hotel in Manly, in the sun, hearing the sea and seeing the waves glinting through the trees… life is pretty sweet.

Where I’ve been: Manly Beach.

In fact, I’m still here! It’s June’s Little Adventure. Post to come, though I’ve written about it in detail on the frogblog.

Where I’m going: Heading for home tomorrow.

It’s a shame. It’s been lovely here, but apparently I’ve missed some pretty awful weather in Melbourne, so I can’t complain.

What I’m watching: Better Call Saul.

I’ve decided to use my Little Adventure evening downtime to catch up on this show. I’m halfway through season 3 at the moment. Gus is in it, which is exciting.

What I’m reading: Sally Hepworth.

In the first few days of this Little Adventure I polished off not one, but two Sally Hepworth novels. The Mother-in-Law and The Younger Wife. I couldn’t put them down.

They were both SO GOOD! Hepworth is from Melbourne and I really enjoyed reading stories set in the suburbs and places I know. Her characters are beautifully portrayed and the situations they find themselves in are gripping. I can highly recommend these novels and I’ll be hunting down the rest of her work when I get back.

What I’m listening to: Birthright by Fiona Lowe. And the sea.

I’ve downloaded 3 audiobooks by Fiona Lowe, another Aussie author, thinking that I might need lots of listening things. A 1,000 KM drive each way means there’s a lot of hours in the car to fill!

However, I’m still barely through the first 3rd of this book. I caught up on my podcasts along the drive up, and since I’ve been here in this beachside hotel I’ve spent a lot of time with the door to my balcony open, just listening to the rhythmic sound of the sea.

What I’m eating: Pre-prepared salads and sourdough.

When I go away on a holiday by myself, I tend to race around and see things during the day and then, when it gets towards twilight, head back to the room to spend my evenings. Safety first! There are a few crazies out there and I’d prefer not to run into one.

This trip, I decided to try some of the frozen meals and pre-packed salads at Coles and Woolworths to see what they’re like.

The verdict on the salads? Pretty darned good.

The frozen meals? Last night I had the WORST meal ever. Supposedly chicken and leek pie, it was a disgusting mush.

Thank goodness I also had some delicious sourdough bread rolls that I smeared with hommus. Saved the day!

Tonight’s lamb rogan josh had better be ok. I only have one sourdough roll left.

What I’m planning: lunch with a blogging friend.

Frogdancer Jones and Fifi La Stupenda (which may not be our real names) first met in real life 13 years ago when I was last in Sydney. It was a blog meet so the Sydney girls could meet me – from Melbourne – and generally just have a nice girls’ night out.

Since then we haven’t clapped eyes on each other again, but we’ve stayed in touch via FB. We met for brunch yesterday and had such a good time that we’re having lunch again today. She swims every day at Manly Beach. Not 5 minutes ago we were waving at each other – she on the foreshore, me on the balcony – and we’ll grab a bite to eat once she’s finished her swim.

Who needs a good slap: Everyone who has crowded out Easter Island so I can’t go there.

Yes, I’ve paid for flights, accommodation and insurance for Antarctica, but Easter Island is off the itinerary. After the cruise was impossible – all booked out. Before the cruise was possible, but my travel agent said, “I’m seeing that they’re cancelling a lot of flights. I’d hate for you to be stranded there and miss your cruise. You said Antarctica was the main reason you’re travelling, right?”

So yes. No Easter Island. Maybe next time.

What has made me smile: Fifi’s conviction that I’d love to swim in the ocean.

LOL.

I don’t even do that in the summer, unless it’s about 45C and I’m right by the beach. I didn’t even pack my bathers. She said that I could swim in my underwear, but I don’t think I want to ruin the ambience of Manly Beach so cruelly.

Dad joke of the day: