Koala's Song

The Baby Poll

2011-03-31T16:24:00.006+11:00

The Baby is Born!

2011-03-31T16:19:00.002+11:00

I now have a new Baby Brother! He was born the day before yesterday. I love holding babies and it is even better when they are your own brother or sister. I don't get to hold him for long though someone always comes along and wants to hold him too.

A Damsels Daybook: 5

2011-03-14T16:16:00.004+11:00

Hosted by Autumn at StoryGirl

Outside my window....... I can hear the springs of the trampoline, and see someone's head bouncing into sight over the bushes.

I am thinking ......... That today was a nice quiet relaxing day.

From the kitchen........ something just started sizzling. I think it is chicken.

I am creating ......... ideas. I don't know what to give halt for his birthday. It's in about three weeks.

I am reading.........
My Bible
Thinking Life Though series 3 by Bishop Fulton Sheen
The Smile of a Ragpicker by Paul Glynn
Charlotte Mason, Companion by Karen Andreola

Simon Peter the Fisherman by Kurt Frieberger

I am hearing....... noises from outside. The trampoline and voices.

I am hoping......... that the books I ordered arrive soon.

I am planning.......... to catch up on the ironing.

I am wearing............ jeans, a black t-shirt saying 'princess' and a ring.

Around the house.......... we finished painting and moving the little boys back into their room on the weekend. We rearranged Dad and Mum's room and moved the baby furniture in. Also we washed all the neutral baby clothes and blankets. It was a very busy weekend.

My wish of the week ......... that the week is a relaxing one.

Gum Tips

2011-03-11T19:25:00.002+11:00

Koala's Juicy Gum Tips are snippets of what has happened in my week. Metaphorically speaking these snippets are the tips of the leaf not the whole leaf. The Leaf being my week.

#1. Legolas has started his new job. It is at a retail store, one of those shops that sell a wide range of products for a cheap price; most being under $10.

#2. Halt started his Soccer Refereeing course on Monday.

#3. I finished my Essay on Father John Joseph Therry.

#4. We got my computer up and running. I am typing this on it now.

#5. I am driving often now I have my P's.

#6. We have begun painting the little boy's room. I spent three hours yesterday painting the undercoat on the walls. Dad is painting the second coat on the roof as I type.

A Damsels Daybook: 4

2011-03-07T16:33:00.003+11:00

Hosted by Autumn at StoryGirl

Outside my window....... The first sunny afternoon in days!

I am thinking ......... That Halt had better hurry up so I can take him to town on time.

From the kitchen........ The boys are chopping pumpkin and sweet potato and they seem to talk a lot while doing it. Whoever said that girls talk more than boys didn't live with my brothers.

I am creating ......... the parts for our computers arrived today, so I'll be taking computers apart and putting them together tonight.

I am reading.........
My Bible
Thinking Life Though series 3 by Bishop Fulton Sheen
The Smile of a Ragpicker by Paul Glynn
Cheaper by the Dozen
Glory of the Olive

I am hearing....... Dad's voice, he just got home.

I am hoping......... that Mum has the baby soon. I can't wait to have a new baby brother or sister.

I am planning.......... to get babysitting jobs.

I am wearing............ Sneakers, jeans, blue T-shirt, watch and ring.

Around the house.......... Princess is setting the table without being told, what a good sister I have.

My wish of the week ......... That I have a good lent. By that I mean that I come closer to God during this time of preparation.

The Love Month Challenge, days 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 & 28.

2011-03-02T16:41:00.003+11:00

I am so behind on this. Ok......... Day 23: A way in which you want to be remembered.
I would like to be remembered for the things I did. I don't mean like...... the first person to climb a really high mountain. Though that would be great too. I mean for my personality or my love for others. For my fruits. So that when I'm dead people can stand up at my funeral and say "I was proud to know her."

Day 24: A movie no one would expect you to love.
I tend to like lots of different types of movies. Maybe...... Cinderella, I love Cinderella, even though I am to old for it. Actually, I like the thought of it more now I am older than the actual movie itself.

Day 25: A recipe. Beef Stew.
First you find the meat. A steak or chops will do it. Chop it into cubes, not to small, nice and chunky. Then brown it with an onion (chopped) and some spices, mixed spices will do. Add some salt and pepper, also a stock cube if you have it, maybe a packet of french onion soup. Peal and chop some potatoes, sweet potato, pumpkin and carrot, make them chunky. Add water with it and leave it all to simmer. You might want to add some peas, beans or broccoli in at the end. Also some thickener like arrowroot or cornflour. Serve with mashed potato, mashed pumpkin and sweet potato (we call it sweet mash,) rice, or bread and butter. Even by itself it is wonderful.

Day 26: A childhood memory.
I remember when our pool was put in. I must have been somewhere between 4 and 6. Just the awe of the bobcats and the dirt being moved out of the ground. When I say remembered it is more like a picture.

Day 27: A physical feature you love.
On me? on someone else? on everyone? I don't know how to answer this question so I'll just say, I find noses interesting. I haven't seen one I love though. Most noses seem to me to look ugly. As though they don't quiet know what they are doing.

Day 28: Hopes, Dreams and plans you have for the next 365 days
I plan to find a job, complete my last year of school, and hopefully know what career path I want to follow.

A Damsels Daybook: 3

2011-02-28T22:14:00.003+11:00

Hosted by Autumn at StoryGirl

Outside my window....... I poured earlier, and I mean cats and dogs! with a little bit of hail thrown in.

I am thinking ......... That I hope I get a job soon.

From the kitchen........ Somebody is rattling about in there. I don't know what they are doing.

I am creating ......... memory's for when I am old.

I am reading.........
My Bible
The Smile of a Ragpicker by Paul Glynn
The ABC's of Finding a Good Husband by Steven Wood

I am hearing....... Sounds from the kitchen and quiet conversation.

I am hoping......... That I find and marry the right guy. I've been reading the ABC's of Choosing a Good Husband and have found it very thought provoking.

I am planning.......... To go to bed soon.

I am wearing............ My daggiest clothes with paint splatted all over them. Also my watch and ring.

Around the house.......... Nothing much is happening. Someone is still moving about the kitchen though.

My wish of the week ......... That I find some direction in my life.

Day 22: A website.

2011-02-22T13:44:00.002+11:00

My Mum's Aussie Book Threads.

Day 21: Something you know you do differently than most people.

2011-02-21T21:41:00.002+11:00

When I was younger I called blanket "blanklett" and Lawn Mower "Mow lawner" also I often pronounce words so that they are incompressible to anyone but myself and sometimes Mum.

A Damsels Daybook: 2

2011-02-21T20:21:00.003+11:00

Hosted by Autumn at StoryGirl

Outside my window....... Its dark.

I am thinking ......... That I hope I get a job soon. I spent this afternoon handing out my resume all over town.

From the kitchen........ Legolas made a fabulous Muesli Bread for lunch today.

I am creating ......... A computer. Or more accurately I am fixing one, the hard drive is busted.

I am reading.........
My Bible
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy
The Smile of a Ragpicker by Paul Glynn

I am hearing....... Two songs been sung on different computers at the same time.

I am hoping......... That my Computer is fixed soon.

I am planning.......... To get a job.

I am wearing............ White Shorts, Green Shirt, watch and ring.

Around the house.......... My room is painted and I have moved my bed back in. I'll have to wait to tomorrow to move the rest of my furniture in.

My wish of the week ......... That we can get my computer up and running.

Day 17: An Art Piece.

2011-02-17T12:56:00.002+11:00

Sunday Afternoon By Seurat

I don't actually like this painting that much. "Why have you chosen this one than?" You might ask. The answer is simple it makes me laugh. In this movie I watched, Loony Tunes Back In Action, Bugs Bunny gets chased through the painting by Elmer Fudd. Every time I see the Painting I recall the scene.

Although I don't like this painting, I tend to enjoy looking at the impressionist paintings more than other styles. That could be just be because I like landscapes more than Portraits though and Impressionist nearly always do landscapes.

Baby Names

2011-02-16T19:30:00.003+11:00

My Mum is due to have a baby at the end of March and we can't find the right boys name. We have found girls names we like but we can't agree on any boys names. So I am holding a challenge. The winner is the one who types a name that I like and my family likes. The name has to be a Catholic saints name or be associated with a saint and it must be unusual. I'll have a poll on the sidebar of my blog of names that can be voted on. Hope you have better luck thinking up names than I have.

Day 16: A song that makes you cry.

2011-02-16T19:28:00.001+11:00

I don't remember crying in any songs. It is more a book or a movie that will make me cry rather than a song.

Day 15: A person you admire.

2011-02-15T13:10:00.000+11:00

I admire my Dad and Mum. They are amazing!

Day 14: A vacation you would like to take.

2011-02-14T15:16:00.003+11:00

I would love to travel the world! by boat if possible. To see Europe, Africa, South America. To see all the continents even Antarctica. To see them on foot, by air, from a train. To see the people their traditions, cultures. To see the wonders of the world the Pyramids in Egypt the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. The scenery, the alps of Switzerland, the jungles of Brazil, the Aurora lights of Alaska. I would want to travel by boat as I love the sea, the thought of the mysteries of the deep, secrets hidden in its clear blue water safe from human eyes.
I love the song in Disney's Aladdin. The one that goes;

I can show you the world
Shining, shimmering, splendid
Tell me, princess, now when did
You last let your heart decide?

I can open your eyes
Take you wonder by wonder
Over, sideways and under
On a magic carpet ride

A whole new world
A new fantastic point of view
No one to tell us no
Or where to go
Or say we're only dreaming

A whole new world
A dazzling place I never knew
But when I'm way up here
It's crystal clear
That now I'm in a whole new world with you
Now I'm in a whole new world with you

Unbelievable sights
Indescribable feeling
Soaring, tumbling, freewheeling
Through an endless diamond sky

A whole new world
Don't you dare close your eyes
A hundred thousand things to see
Hold your breath - it gets better
I'm like a shooting star
I've come so far
I can't go back to where I used to be

A whole new world
Every turn a surprise
With new horizons to pursue
Every moment red-letter
I'll chase them anywhere
There's time to spare
Let me share this whole new world with you

A whole new world
That's where we'll be
A thrilling chase
A wondrous place
For you and me

It describes how I feel about a world just waiting to be discovered. A whole new world, with new horizons and wondrous things to see just waiting for me to explore and find them.

This is my perfect kind of vocation with wonder and excitement at every turn. Of course I will probably never go, the reality would be nothing like the dream. It is the dreaming that makes it wondrous, covered with golden sparkles and shimmering in the moonlight, an elusive dream that if you caught it would be bruised and lose its sparkles to rough fingers.

A Damsels Daybook: 1

2011-02-14T14:35:00.003+11:00

Hosted by Autumn at StoryGirl

Outside my window....... It has stopped raining, although there is still a feel of rain in the air it is now sunny.

I am thinking ......... I should read my literature read for school after this and not leave it to the last minute like last week.

From the kitchen........ nothing, everyone has finished lunch.

I am creating ......... Absolutely nothing at all. I haven't made anything in ages.

I am reading.........
My Bible
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy, for book club.
Thinking Life Through by Bishop Fulton Sheen
Saint Louise De Marillac by Prince Emmanuel De Broglie translated by Rev. Joseph Leonard
A Song for Nagasaki by Paul Glynn

I am hearing....... My Brothers on the computer.

I am hoping......... That my room looks nice when it is done. We started painting it yesterday.

I am planning.......... To start getting up earlier of a morning.

I am wearing............ Favourite Jeans, comfortable blue shirt, bare feet, watch and ring.

Around the house.......... Mum resting, the baby is due soon, Legolas reading and other siblings on the computers.

My wish of the week ......... That I get all my schoolwork done early for the week.

Day 13: A guilty pleasure.

2011-02-14T14:33:00.002+11:00

Reading books online.

I really shouldn't do it but I do enjoy reading light fluffy books that if you owned them wouldn't be worth the paper they are printed on.

Day 12: A song that you want played at your wedding(or was played).

2011-02-14T14:16:00.002+11:00

I haven't really thought about it. I'm not really one of those people who plan their wedding down to the last bag of rice before I even have a groom. I have thought a little about what sort of wedding I want. I guess every girl does. I like rousing hymns. Like How Great Thou Art and We Stand for God. Those aren't really wedding type hymns though. My brothers suggest Here Comes the Bride which is traditional. Mum says she had Ave Maria as her entrance hymn. I love the wedding hymn in The Sound Of Music. I must say I do like the refrain of Ave Maria. But really I have no song that I really want played at my Wedding. I will probably have heaps that I want played when I do get married though.

Day 11: A photo of you taken recently.

2011-02-14T13:40:00.004+11:00

Taken six months ago on my 17th Birthday.

Day 9 &10 of The Love Month Challenge

2011-02-10T13:41:00.006+11:00

Day 9: A photo you took.

I couldn't decide between these three.

From left to right: Legolas, Gimli, Princess, Jellybean

From left to right: Jack Jack, Princess, Gimli

From left to right: Jack Jack, Jellybean, Mum, Jem

Day 10: A Photo Taken of You Ten Years Ago

I don't have any photo's of me taken ten years ago; at least not on the computer. We switched to a digital camera about six years ago. Sorry no photo. I might find one in our shipping container and scan it in someday, but no promises.

Day 8: A thank you letter to someone who has changed your life.

2011-02-08T16:47:00.001+11:00

Dear Dad and Mum,

Every day you change my life. Teach me more about the world, love, hope, joy, peace, acceptance. You brought me into the world, gave me life, taught me about God. You have taught me not only my academic lessons but also the lessons of the heart and soul. By your actions you teach me every day how to do the right thing. How to interact with the people about me, with integrity, charity, and love. Your influence and support, your listening and understanding has made me into the woman I am today, I thank you.

Love Anna Maria

The Love Month Challenge

2011-02-07T12:16:00.004+11:00

I found out about this from Autumn's Blog A month blogging challenge on things you love! Here is the list you have to answer:

Day 1: A favorite song.
Day 2: A favorite movie.
Day 3: A favorite book.
Day 4: A favorite television program.
Day 5: A favorite quote.
Day 6: A moment you wish you could relive.
Day 7: Five things you couldn't possibly live without.
Day 8: A thank you letter to someone who has changed your life.
Day 9: A photo you took.
Day 10: A photo of you taken over ten years ago.
Day 11: A photo of you taken recently.
Day 12: A song that you want played at your wedding(or was played).
Day 13: A guilty pleasure.
Day 14: A vacation you would like to take.
Day 15: A person you admire.
Day 16: A song that makes you cry.
Day 17: An art piece.
Day 18: A time when you felt passionate and alive.
Day 19: A talent of yours.
Day 20: A hobby of yours.
Day 21: Something you know you do differently than most people.
Day 22: A website.
Day 23: A way in which you want to be remembered.
Day 24: A movie no one would expect you to love.
Day 25: A recipe.
Day 26: A childhood memory.
Day 27: A physical feature you love.
Day 28: Hopes, Dreams and plans you have for the next 365 days

I'm starting a little late so I'll have to catch up.

Day 1: A Favourite Song

You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift. I don't know why I like it so much, I just do.

Day 2: A Favourite Movie

Indiana Jones, Its got action, romance, great characters, a story plot and Harrison Ford.

Day 3: A Favourite Book

I can never choose a favourite book. I change my mind all the time. It depends on what mood I am in when I want to read. Whether I want to read a deep book, frothy romance, historical, comedy, faith, inspirational, western, classic, female author, male author, (there are differences in the writing style between the two) Mostly it is the characters themselves that appeal to me as to whether I like a book or not, how the author presents them is a big part of this.
At the moment I would say that one of my favourite books is Truth Seeker by Dee Henderson.

Day 4: A Favourite Television Show

My Favourite Television Show is Hogan's Heroes. It is an old TV series set in World War Two. We own the whole series and it is great! Sooo funny!

Day 5: A Favourite Quote
Some of my favourite quotes are on the side bar of my blog. My Favourite would have to be

Help me to take the time to be,
An understanding friend,
To someone who needs a helping hand,
On which they can depend.
Vera Beall Parker

Day 6: A Moment you Wish you Could Relieve

The moment I first got to hold my baby Brothers and Sisters.

Day 7: Five Things You Couldn't Possibly Live Without

God
My Family
Books
All the Things I need to keep me alive (Food, Water etc.)
The little things that make life great; a beautiful rainbow, the cicadas song, (it's annoying sure but wonderful,) the feel of mud soft and squishy under my feet, dew sparkling on the grass, the taste of a cool, creamy ice-block covered in chocolate, Swimming on a hot summer's day.

I've Got My License!!!!!!!!!!

2011-02-05T07:25:00.007+11:00

I am now on my P's! Yesterday I had a driving test and I passed!!! I had already failed once due to nerves.
I drove to the fish and chip stop to pick up tea for everyone and for the first time I drove alone. Well...... unsupervised anyway, my little brother came with me.
I'm kinda still riding on a high. I've got my P's!! Yippee!!!

Leave

2011-02-03T14:44:00.001+11:00

Pass it on! You have to title the post with the first word you find in the word search.

Random

2011-02-01T20:15:00.005+11:00

I can't get the song "I'm Gonna Be (500)" out of my head. The main verse keeps running round and round in my head. It's got a really catchy tune, with a solid beat. It's a great walking song especially the main verse.

But I would walk 500 miles
And I would walk 500 more
Just to be the man who walked 1,000 miles
To fall down at your door

For some reason when I hear this I always imagine a man walking to another town in the snow. Then falling down just as she opens the door to his banging. I don't know why but that's the image that pops into my mind even though no where in the song is anything like it mentioned. Apart from the falling down at the door bit, that is.

This song is on my side bar if you want to listen to it. It is by the proclaimers.

Buying Books

2011-02-01T12:11:00.003+11:00

I just finished reading a heap of books. I ordered them in the holidays from Better World Books. They do free shipping world wide now which is wonderful, because usually the postage is as much as the book. I bought 11 books which seems like a lot but I had money to spend what with babysitting money and ironing money. My ironing money always goes to buy me books. I get about one book a month that way. I bought some Lori Wick's and Dee Henderson's. Two of the Dee Henderson's were her first books and I can see that she has improved as a writer. They were pretty awful. Thanks for listening to me ramble on.

Christmas!

2010-12-25T11:37:00.000+11:00

Happy Birthday Jesus!

Merry Christmas all.

Christmas Tag!!!

2010-12-24T15:21:00.003+11:00

This tag is from Vellvin.

1. What is your one favorite dish to see on the table at Christmas dinner?
The Dessert! after that, the potato salad.

2. Do you have a Nativity scene or a creche?
They are the same thing.

3. What is your favorite Christmas movie?
I don't really have a favourite Christmas Movie.

4. If you and your family could spend this Christmas in another country, where would you go?
I would probably choose England or Ireland.

5. Does your grandmother usually knit you something for Christmas, or does she give you something different -- say, a Wii?
My Mum's Mum, Marnie, tends to give bought items. The last few Christmas's it has been mostly cloth gifts, Beach towels, doona cases, clothing.
My Dad's Mum, Grandma, has knitted me a jumper, but gave it to me on my birthday. I think Grandma gave knitted jumpers to my siblings last year.

6. Have you ever gone out of the house wearing a reindeer headband? What about a Santa hat?
No.

7. Do you usually make or buy your Christmas gifts?
When I was younger make, now I tend to buy them.

8. When do you set up your Christmas decorations?
At the beginning of advent we get out the Nativity sets, (we have a few, Mum tends to collect them) and set up the Christmas tree, we decorate the Christmas tree with only purple ornaments. On Christmas Eve, we take down the purple ornaments and decorate the Christmas tree with all our decorations.

9. What kind of activities does your church usually have at Christmas?
Nothing, we used to go to another Church where the children would make a nativity scene on Christmas Eve.

10. Did you ever believe in Santa Claus as a child?
No.

11. Which of the Gospels gives your favorite account of the Christmas story?
They're both wonderful!

12. Have you ever acted in a Christmas pageant?
No. But I was once Mary at Church, my sister (Princess) was Baby Jesus.

13. Do you buy Christmas presents for your pets?
I think we did buy a toy for our dog on her first Christmas.

14. What is your favorite Christmas tradition?
Us all gathering together as a family round the Christmas tree and opening presents. Also going to Christmas Eve Mass.

I Tag...... whoever wants to do this Tag.

Gum Tips

2010-12-17T22:07:00.003+11:00

Koala's Juicy Gum Tips are snippets of what has happened in my week. Metaphorically speaking these snippets are the tips of the leaf not the whole leaf. The Leaf being my week.

#1. I bought my own car! It is a dark green Suzuki Swift. I wasn't planing on buying a car for another couple of years. But Dad saw it parked at the corner, (local corner where you park your car during the day with contact details and price if you want to sell your car) for $900. It has about the same mileage as Dad's car and is one year newer. Dad's is a Holden Barina. The parts came from the same place but were put together by different companies. Something like that, anyway they are extremely similar. Dad and Mum went halves with me and plan on selling our other car as it isn't very fuel efficient and we won't need it anymore. I'm learning all about insurance claims, greenslips, rego, and when to change my air, fuel and oil filters. Also how to check my air pressure, I'm afraid that one of my tires may have a slow leak. My back suspension is probably a little gone also as we bottomed out twice after hitting pot holes. I'm just so excited! I have my own car!!!!

#2. They told us that we had to remove all the flooring from the convent by next Monday so this week every afternoon at five the boys have been going with Mum to the School where Dad meets them after work. They then slide the boards down a gutter from the two story windows to the trailer. I stay at home with the four youngest, so I don't know the details very well. They are all exhausted when they get in at about eight o'clock, good thing it's summer and the days are longer. Then however much they are tired we all have to unload the trailer that night so it is ready for Dad to take to take to work again in the morning. Jem love to "help" and gets a little under foot carrying his boards to Dad to stack. It is rather cute watching him grip his board with a determined expression on his face.

#3. Tomorrow we are going to Sydney to my cousin's 21 birthday party. It should be fun.

#4. I got something in my eye on Tuesday and like a fool I rubbed it. It was hurt and was quite teary for awhile. Mum got me to go to the optometrist today just to make sure it wasn't infected and he said he could see a scratch across my eye. It's healing nicely by itself though and it hasn't affected my pupil in any way.

The Man from Snowy River

2010-12-06T17:58:00.005+11:00

By A.B. Paterson

There was movement at the station, for the word had passed around
That the colt from old regret had got away,
And had joined the wild bush horses -- he was worth a thousand pound,
So all the cracks had gathered to the fray.
All the tried and noted riders from the stations near and far
Had mustered at the homestead over night,
For the bushman love hard riding where the wild bush horses are,
And the stack-horse snuffs the battle with delight.

There was Harrison, who made his pile when Pardon won the cup,
The old man with his hair as white as snow;
But few could ride beside him when his blood was fairly up --
He would go wherever horse and man could go.
And Clancy of the Overflow came down to lend a hand,
No better horseman ever held the reins;
For never horse could throw him while the saddle-girths would stand,
He learnt to ride while droving on the plains.

And one was there, a stripling on a small and weedy beast,
He was something like a racehorse undersized,
With a touch of Timor pony -- three parts thoroughbred at least --
And such as are by mountain horsemen prized.
He was hard and tough and wiry -- just the sort that won't say die --
There was courage in his quick impatient tread;
And he bore the badge of gameness in his bright and fiery eye,
And the proud and lofty carriage of his head.

But still so slight and weedy, one would doubt his power to stay,
And the old man said, "That horse will never do
For a long and tiring gallop -- lad, you'd better stop away,
Those hills are far too rough for such as you.
" So he waited sad and wistful -- only Clancy stood his friend --
"I think we ought to let him come," he said;
"I warrant he'll be with us when he's wanted at the end,
For both his horse and he are mountain bred."

"He hails from Snowy River, up by Kosciusko's side,
Where the hills are twice as steep and twice as rough,
Where a horse's hoofs strike firelight from the flint stones every stride,
The man that holds his own is good enough.
And the Snowy River riders on the mountains make their home,
Where the river runs those giant hills between;
I have seen full many horsemen since I first commenced to roam,
But nowhere yet such horsemen have I seen."

So he went -- they found the horses by the big mimosa clump --
They raced away towards the mountain's brow,
And the old man gave his orders, "Boys, go at them from the jump,
No use to try for fancy riding now.
And, Clancy, you must wheel them, try and wheel them to the right.
Ride boldly, lad, and never fear the spills,
For never yet was rider that could keep the mob in sight,
If once they gain the shelter of those hills."

So Clancy rode to wheel them -- he was racing on the wing
Where the best and boldest riders take their place,
And he raced his stock-horse past them, and he made the ranges ring
With the stockwhip, as he met them face to face.
Then they halted for a moment, while he swung the dreaded lash,
But they saw their well-loved mountain full in view,
And they charged beneath the stockwhip with a sharp and sudden dash,
And off into the mountain scrub they flew.

Then fast the horsemen followed, where the gorges deep and black
Resounded to the thunder of their tread,
And the stockwhips woke the echoes, and they fiercely answered back
From cliffs and crags that beetled overhead.
And upward, ever upward, the wild horses held their way,
Where mountain ash and kurrajong grew wide;
And the old man muttered fiercely, "We may bid the mob good day,
No man can hold them down the other side.

"When they reached the mountain's summit, even Clancy took a pull,
It well might make the boldest hold their breath,
The wild hop scrub grew thickly, and the hidden ground was full
Of wombat holes, and any slip was death.
But the man from Snowy River let the pony have his head,
And he swung his stockwhip round and gave a cheer,
And he raced him down the mountain like a torrent down its bed,
While the others stood and watched in very fear.

He sent the flint stones flying, but the pony kept his feet,
He cleared the fallen timber in his stride,
And the man from Snowy River never shifted in his seat --
It was grand to see that mountain horseman ride.
Through the stringy barks and saplings, on the rough and broken ground,
Down the hillside at a racing pace he went;
And he never drew the bridle till he landed safe and sound,
At the bottom of that terrible descent.

He was right among the horses as they climbed the further hill,
And the watchers on the mountain standing mute,
Saw him ply the stockwhip fiercely, he was right among them still,
As he raced across the clearing in pursuit.
Then they lost him for a moment, where two mountain gullies met
In the ranges -- but a final glimpse reveals
On a dim and distant hillside the wild horses racing yet,
With the man from Snowy River at their heels.

And he ran them single-handed till their sides were white with foam.
He followed like a bloodhound on their track,
Till they halted cowed and beaten, then he turned their heads for home,
And alone and unassisted brought them back.
But his hardy mountain pony he could scarcely raise a trot,
He was blood from hip to shoulder from the spur;
But his pluck was still undaunted, and his courage fiery hot,
For never yet was mountain horse a cur.

And down by Kosciusko, where the pine-clad ridges raise
Their torn and rugged battlements on high,
Where the air is clear as crystal, and the white stars fairly blaze
At midnight in the cold and frosty sky,
And where around the Overflow the reedbeds sweep and sway
To the breezes, and the rolling plains are wide,
The man from Snowy River is a household word today,
And the stockmen tell the story of his ride.

This poem is one of my favourites. When you read it you see the scene! You see the men gathered round, telling a young lad that they didn't think he could stand a hard ride and that his horse wasn't good enough for the gallop that was to come. Than when they try to wheel the horses, Clancy racing along side them, the stock whips cracking, the shouts of the men. Then the moment of hesitation, will they come?...... the dash, and the horses are gone. You see the horsemen standing at the top of an awful drop and then one man dashing past them, the lad they had doubted. If he was any less a rider they would have seen him plunge to his death, instead he stays on the heels of the horses and brings them back unassisted, which would have been quite a feat in itself.

2010-12-03T20:26:00.003+11:00

Koala's Juicy Gum Tips are snippets of what has happened in my week. Metaphorically speaking these snippets are the tips of the leaf not the whole leaf. The Leaf being my week.

#1. Last night I played a multiplayer game with Legolas, Halt, Gimli and Princess. Unfortunately the internet connection dropped out while we were playing so we didn't get to finish the game.

#2. I have finish all my Maths and History for the term! On the down side I am somewhat behind in my Science, Geography and English.

#3. The other morning Jack Jack woke everyone up by screaming at a high pitch, because someone had told him to be quiet as he was waking them up. Everyone was not in a good mood that morning and nobody was very patient with the culprit.

#4. I only need to do 45 more minutes of night driving then I can go for the test.

#5. It has rained so often in this term. The ground seems to be in a perpetual state of mush.

Voyage of the Dawn Treader

2010-12-02T14:55:00.003+11:00

It's Out!!!!!!! Voyage of the Dawn Treader is in the cinemas today! I hope it is as good as The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. I didn't like Prince Caspian all that much.

Apple Frunola

2010-11-23T08:52:00.006+11:00

Apple Frunola is one of my favourite breakfasts. It tastes so yummy!

3 apples
3-4 figs
2 small handfuls of almonds
2 small handfuls of sultanas
Shredded Coconut

Place the almonds in a food processor and blend them. You want them blended small but not too small as you still want to crunch them when you eat. Add the figs and blend until they are mixed well with the almonds. Spoon the mixture out into a bowl and place the apples into the food processor. Blend the apples until they are in small chunks. Don't blend into mush.

Spoon the apple into the bowl with the figs and almonds, throw in the sultanas and coconut mix it all together and you have a delicious breakfast that is easy to make. This will make about one large breakfast bowl of Apple Frunola.

It tastes really nice with a light sprinkle of cinnamon over the top. You can also add bananas for an extra flavour and to bulk it out a bit.

Johanna Spyri.

2010-11-18T14:40:00.003+11:00

Johanna Spyri is the author of the well known book Heidi. She was born in 1827 on the 12th of June in Hirzel, Switzerland. She married Bernhard Spyri in 1852 and had a son named Bernard. Johanna died aged 74 the 7 July 1901.

Other works by Johanna Spyri include Cornelli, Erick and Sally, Gritli's Children, Maezli. A Story of the Swiss Valleys, Moni the Goat-Boy, Rico and Wiseli, Toni, the Little Woodcarver, Uncle Titus and His Visit to the Country, Veronica And Other Friends. Two Stories For Children, What Sami Sings with the Birds.

However her best known book is Heidi. I loved Heidi as a child and still do. I have read many abridged and beginner readers of Heidi but none of them can compare to the full book. I have read Heidi many times and also the next two books in the series Heidi Grows Up and Heidi's Children. I was surprised to learn that Heidi Grows up and Heidi's Children were not actually written by Johanna Spyri but by Charles Tritten, the English translator of Heidi.

Gum Tips

2010-11-13T08:46:00.004+11:00

Koala's Juicy Gum Tips are snippets of what has happened in my week. Metaphorically speaking these snippets are the tips of the leaf not the whole leaf. The Leaf being my week.

#1 It's been ages since I wrote a post, I'm going to try to write one at least once a week.

#2 This week the five oldest in our family and Dad have been pulling up floor boards from a convent school that is being torn down. We plan on using the floor boards in our extensions.

#3 I'm taking a Bronze lifesaving course.

#4 I went with my friends for an ice-cream and to the pool.

Gum Tips

2010-08-20T13:29:00.007+10:00

Koala's Juicy Gum Tips are snippets of what has happened in my week. Metaphorically speaking these snippets are the tips of the leaf not the whole leaf.

#1 My youngest sister Jelly Bean read her first book. The second Preparatory School Reader. I'm so proud of her.

#2 I have found a new author, Erle Stanley Gardner. He wrote the Perry Mason books.

#3 I've completed half my Learner driving hours, only 60 more to go.

#4 We got a new Spelling book. It's a little late in the term true, but it took forever to get through the mail to us.

#5 I went to a games night with my friends and played billionaire. A card game that necessitates yelling at the top of your lungs.

#6 Halt got a stick stuck in his foot that was at least 3 centimetres long and 3 millimetres wide.

Book Genres

2010-08-06T18:29:00.003+10:00

OK here are the results of the poll I've had on the sidebar of my blog. On what is your favourite book genre.

Action 20%
Adventure 17%
Fantasy 17%
Mystery 17%
Romance 11%
Historical 9%
Non-Fiction 6%
Biography 3%
with Poetry and Plays nowhere.
People who voted: 10

Happy Birthday Jack Jack!

2010-07-05T09:40:00.010+10:00

Today is Jack Jack's Birthday, he is turning 4. Jack Jack is my second youngest brother and also my Godson. I love him very much. I have put together a collection of photos of him at different stages of his life.

The Results of the Movie Quote Quiz:

2010-07-02T07:55:00.007+10:00

Thank You everyone for entering and having a go.

Autumn 29

Saxon 26

Vellvin 22

Lou 17

Princess 15

Naomi 8

The winner as you can see is Autumn, with Saxon in second place and Vellvin in third. Well done everyone!

1. "I'm a good girl I am."
Eliza Doolittle from My Fair Lady

2. "They're probably all taking a coffee break.... At the same time."
Helen Parr from The Incredibles

3. "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and - SNAP - the job's a game!"
Mary Poppins from Mary Poppins

4. "Lions and tigers, and bears. Oh my!
Dorothy from Wizard of Oz

5. "Maybe the deranged hermit has a point."
Manny from Ice Age 3

6. "He's your uncle?!" (picks up lobster and clobbers him over the face)
Nicole from Herbie Rides Again

7. "Well done! Master of sensitivity." (sarcasm)
Lu Yan from The Forbidden Kingdom

8. "So much for noble steed."
Donkey from Shrek

9. "Think of it as a Bradly Assault Vehicle." "Yeah, especially with Zoe driving."
Shane and Seth from The Pacifier

10. "A life for a life, my debt is repaid."
Shang in Mulan

11. "What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon tea? Dinner? Supper? He knows about them, doesn't he?"
Pippin from the fellowship of the Ring

12. "With just the bare necessities of life."
Baboo from The Jungle Book

13. "They're savings bonds. In seven years you will get to buy something really nice. "
Dave from Alvin and The Chipmunks

14. "My baby's all grown up and......(sniffle) and saving China. You have a tissue?"
Mushu from Mulan

15. "Anyways, you need people of intelligence on this sort of... mission... quest... thing."
Pippin from The Fellowship of the Ring

16. "Before we start… did anyone lose a bunch of twenties rolled up in a rubber band? Because we found the rubber band. "
Doctor Octavius from Spider-man

17. "Me no dum-dum. You dum-dum. You bring me gum-gum?"
The Easter Island Head from Night at the Museum

18. "Our first game is called Well Begun is Half-Done."
Mary Poppins from Mary Poppins

19. " So what I told you was true..... from a certain point of view."
Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi

20. "For a second there I actually thought you were going to eat me." "I don't eat junk food."
Diego from Ice Age 1

Movie Quote Quiz

2010-07-01T11:46:00.009+10:00

Just a reminder everyone that today is the last day before my movie quote quiz ends. So if you want to enter now's your last chance.
Good luck!

Words

2010-07-01T09:08:00.002+10:00

Words are deeds. The words we hear
May revolutionise or rear
A mighty state. The words we read
May orb a spiritual deed
Excelling any fleshly one,
As much as the celestial sun
Transcends a bonfire, made to throw
A light on some mere Raree-show.
A simple proverb tagged with rhyme,
May colour half the course of time;
The pregnant saying of a sage
May influence every coming age;
A song in its effects may be
More glorious than Thermopylae:
While a great book is in my view
A greater deed than Waterloo;
And many a lay that schoolboys scan,
A nobler feat than Inkerman.
By Charles Harpur

Jelly Bean's Birthday!

2010-06-30T08:10:00.014+10:00

Today is Jelly Bean's 6th Birthday here are some cute pictures of her. Happy Birthday Jelly Bean. I love you.

March-2006
November-2006
January-2007

March-2007

June-2007

July-2007

September-2007

February-2008

November-2008

May-2009

June-2009

August-2009

August-2009
August-2009

February-2010
April-2010
April-2010

Award: Thank You Saxon

2010-06-20T13:00:00.006+10:00

Thank You for this award Saxon.

1. Post the logo on your blog and/or within the post.
2. Pass it on to 12 other bloggers.
3. Add links to these 12 bloggers within your blog.
4. Let them know they are receiving the award.
5. Share the link of the person from whom you received the award.

I give this award to:

Mum
Elise
Bethainya
Will Treaty
Gimli
Halt
Legolas

Movie Quote Quiz

2010-06-18T17:34:00.004+10:00

OK all there's been a couple of movie quizzes going around and I've decided to join in with one of my own. The rules for the quiz are as follows:

1. No looking up the answers on the internet.
2. You submit your answers in the comments, you may post multiple comments, as you remember the elusive quotes over time.
3. Scoring; one point for guessing the movie correctly and another for guessing who said it.
4. Quiz ends in two weeks on the 2 July, a Friday.
Good Luck!

1. "I'm a good girl I am."

2. "They're probably all taking a coffee break.... At the same time."

3. "In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun. You find the fun, and - SNAP - the job's a game!"

4. "Lions and tigers, and bears. Oh my!

5. "Maybe the deranged hermit has a point."

6. "He's your uncle?!" (picks up lobster and clobbers him over the face)

7. "Well done! Master of sensitivity." (sarcasm)

8. "So much for noble steed."

9. "Think of it as a Bradly Assault Vehicle." "Yeah, especially with Zoe driving."

10. "A life for a life, my debt is repaid."

11. "What about elevenses? Luncheon? Afternoon tea? Dinner? Supper? He knows about them, doesn't he?"

12. "With just the bare necessities of life."

13. "They're savings bonds. In seven years you will get to buy something really nice. "

14. "My baby's all grown up and......(sniffle) and saving China. You have a tissue?"

15. "Anyways, you need people of intelligence on this sort of... mission... quest... thing."

16. "Before we start… did anyone lose a bunch of twenties rolled up in a rubber band? Because we found the rubber band. "

17. "Me no dum-dum. You dum-dum. You bring me gum-gum?"

18 "Our first game is called Well Begun is Half-Done."

19. " So what I told you was true..... from a certain point of view."

20. "For a second there I actually thought you were going to eat me." "I don't eat junk food."

Posting Again!

2010-06-03T09:46:00.004+10:00

I'm so sorry everyone. I haven't blogged for simply ages. I'm going to change that and try to blog at least once a week. Looking at my blog I found that I have been collecting awards and tags without knowing it. Thanks for not giving up on me.
Thank you Saxon for your tag.
Thank you Elise for your awards.

I award Vellvin, Legolas, Halt, Gimli, and Princess. I would award more but they have already been awarded.

The Beyond Your Imagination Award

1. List 8 stories or books that you would like to live in (for two weeks?)

Ranger's Apprentice by John Flanagan

Biggles by Capt. W. E. Johns

The Flying Dutchman by Brian Jacques

One of the Billabong books, preferably later on in the series, by Mary Grant Bruce

Waking Rose by Regina Doman

My Heart Remembers by Kim Vogel Sawyer

Among the Bushrangers by G. A. Henty

The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

2. List 8 other bloggers who deserve this award

3. Comment on their blog, and tell them they won an award

OK! it shall be done.

The Emma Award

2009-11-16T14:28:00.004+11:00

Thank you so much for this award Elise.

Amazing Grace

2009-11-12T16:10:00.004+11:00

We sang this hymn today at choir. I really liked what we did today and I can see that I'm going to love Choir. I enjoyed the drama, but choir was defiantly my favourite of the two.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught...
my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear...
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
we have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
as long as life endures.

When we've been here ten thousand years...
bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
then when we've first begun.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me....
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

Choir & Drama

2009-11-12T10:08:00.008+11:00

Today, our homeschool group is starting on a four week workshop. Every Thursday for the next four weeks we are going to learn choir and drama. I have never learnt either before and I am so excited! The mums intend to do fun games with the little ones, like 'Five little Joeys jumping on a bed one fell off and bumped his head.' Mum sang the song this morning and Jem was so funny trying to do the actions.

Go to here to vote for Elise at Ribbons of Light in the Best Teen Girl Blog 2009

New Background

2009-11-11T16:54:00.003+11:00

Did you notice? I've got a new background!!! I found it on My Space Backgrounds. How do you like it?

Tagged by Vellvin & Saxon

2009-11-10T10:54:00.006+11:00

Thanks Vellvin and Saxon.

Do you like to write?
Sort of, (I enjoy thinking out story plots and what twists and turns I can put in them but not writing them).

Favourite Books?
At the moment:
The Cornet of Horse by G A Henty
Stoneholding by James G. Anderson & Mark Sebanc
Rangers Apprentice series by John Flanagan
O'Malley series by Dee Henderson.

Do you compose music/write songs?
No

Do you like Poetry?
Yes, but only when I can understand it.

Loved someone so much who made you cry?
No.

Broken a bone?
Yes.

Been in a police car?
No, although my brothers think I may have once, on a home school excursion.

Been on a boat?
Yes.

Fallen asleep at school?
No.

Did you sing today?
Yes, just quietly to myself.

KFC, Popeyes or Church's?
Are these fast food restaurants

Chick-a-flick or What-a-Burger?
Huh....

Starbucks or McCafe?
Never been to either.

What's your favourite time of year?
Spring

Do you ever talk to yourself?
Yes, mostly in my head.

Do you have a favourite treat you like to buy on occasions?
It depends.

Do you believe the Bible is the literal word of God and is infallible?
Yes!!!

What's your favourite sport?
Soccer.

What colour is your Ipod?
I don't have a ipod.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Ireland, Scotland or Italy.

If you could go to any fictional place, where would you go?
Araluen, (Rangers Apprentice)

Do you love to write or do you just like writing? Or do you write at all?
I don't write often.

What do you want to be when your a grown-up?
I'm not sure, I think something that travels around the world.

Favourite animal?
At the moment a Falcon.

Favourite Song?
All little kids songs.

Do you like school?
Yes.

Are you a people person cause I'm getting the felling that you are?
Not really.

Do you like to talk?
When the mood takes me I can chatter like a Magpie.

Favourite food?
Donuts

Hobbies?
Reading, Playing Soccer, Card and Boardgames.

Favourite Author?
At the moment Dee Henderson

Favourite weapon?
Sword, Bow and Arrows

Is this a fun tag or are you getting bored?
ummm its a little long.

Do you like Hannah Montana and all those girly people and movies like high school musical?
NO WAY!!!!

What are you scared of?
I've no idea.

Favourite flower?
Rose.

Colour of your eyes?
Blue

I tag
Gimli
Princess
Halt
Legolas

Firmly I Believe and Truly

2009-11-05T15:48:00.002+11:00

Firmly I believe and truly
God is Three, and God is One
And I next acknowledge duly
Manhood taken by the Son;

And I trust and hope most fully
In that manhood crucified;
And each thought and deed unruly
Do to death, as He has died.

Simply to His grace and wholly
Light and life and strength belong;
And I love supremely, solely,
Him the holy, Him the strong.

And I hold in veneration,
For the love of Him alone,
Holy Church as His creation,
and her teachings, as His own.

Adoration aye be given,
With and through the angelic host,
To the God of earth and heaven,
Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

The 8 Question Meme

2009-11-02T09:00:00.010+11:00

The 8 Question Meme

Mum tagged me for The 8 question Meme.

Six names you go by:
Anna Maria
Koala
Big Sis
Possom
Book Worm
C______

Three things you are wearing right now:
Blue skirt with purple flowers
White T-shirt
Brown Watch.

Three things you want very badly at the moment:
-To read Halt's Peril
-To get a great story idea
-To know what I want to be when I grow up

Three things you did last night/yesterday/today.
-Read some of The Pearls of Lutra
-Went to Mass (All Souls Day)
-Bought Halt's Peril

Two things you ate today.
-Musli
-Chocolate Choc Chip Cookies

Two people you last talked to on the phone:
I don't really talk on the phone, but I think the last people I answered the phone to were Dad and Rebecca.

Two things you are going to do tomorrow:
-Read Lorna Doone and Halt's Peril
-Writing Club

Your three favorite beverages:
-Water
-Orange Juice
-Hot Chocolate

Tag 5 people.

Legolas

Halt

Gimli

Princess

Ribbons of Light

Halt's Peril!

2009-11-02T08:24:00.007+11:00

Halt's Peril comes out today!!! I'm so excited I can't wait to read it.

We're going to buy it when we go into town this morning, I'll do up a review when I've read it.

Licence

2009-10-13T21:38:00.005+11:00

I got my L's today!! Tomorrow I'll have my first lesson with Dad.

Journey to the Center of the Earth

2009-10-12T21:07:00.004+11:00

You have absolutely got to watch this movie!! It is magnificent!
Its all about this man whose brother has been missing for ten years, when his nephew comes to stay, he brings with him some of his father's personal belongings. One of them is Jules Verne's book 'A Journey to the Center of the Earth'. In the book, Trevor (Brendon Fraser) finds notations and following these he, his nephew and the tour guide, Journey to the Center of the Earth.

Its rated PG as there are some scary scenes(themes).

Honest Scrap Award

2009-10-11T14:19:00.005+11:00

I was given this award by Halt and Gimli. Thank you boys.

The rules

Thank the person who gave you the award
Post ten honest facts about yourself
Pass the award on to seven others

I love hard boiled fruit candies

I'm inclined to be lazy

I'm a confirmed bookworm

I enjoy jobs like the laundry and packing the dishwasher but hate tidying up

I love word and card games

I hate history (but love reading historical novels)

I have wavy brown hair (but like to think it black)

I can't sing in tune

I like little kids songs

I throw my clothes in my cupboard willy nilly

I pass this award on to:

Legolas and Princess

How well do you know your Sayings?

2009-10-10T20:11:00.010+11:00

How well did you do? Here are the answers to the post I posted on Tuesday. Plus some more common sayings and proverbs.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

A rolling stone gathers no moss.

All roads lead to Rome.

Necessity is the mother of invention.

Money is the root of all evil.

Practice makes perfect.

The pen is mightier than the sword.

A stitch in time saves _______.

A bird in the _______ is worth two in the bush.

Better safe than ______.

He who laughs ______ laughs longest.

_____ good turn deserves another.

Look before you ______.

Waste not, ______ not.

Man does not live by ______ alone.

You can lead a ______ to water, but you can't make it drink.

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but _______ will never hurt me.

My Signature

2009-10-09T09:28:00.010+11:00

I now have a Signature!
On Izori's side bar there is a link to creating your own signature.
There are many different styles to choose from and you are sure to find one you like.
Don't be intimidated, its really quite easy.

Jesus, my Lord, my God, my all,

2009-10-08T11:02:00.002+11:00

Jesus, my Lord, my God, my all,
How can I love thee as I ought?
And how revere this Wonderful Gift,
So far surpassing hope or thought?
Sweet Sacrament, we Thee adore;
Oh, make us love Thee more and more.

Had I but Mary's sinless heart
to love Thee with my dearest King,
Oh, with what bursts of fervent praise
Thy goodness, Jesus, would I sing!
Sweet Sacrament, we Thee adore;
Oh, make us love Thee more and more.

Happy Birthday Princess!

2009-10-08T10:56:00.007+11:00

I'm taking the special day of your eighth birthday to tell you how much you mean to me.
Princess I longed for you so much, I wanted a sister to laugh with, to tell secrets to, to play with. And when you came I was overjoyed! You are so much better then I expected and every day you prove this to me. I love you Princess!!!

Tagged by Enna-Rin

2009-10-07T21:15:00.012+11:00

What is a very interesting fact about you?

I've read hundreds of books

What are two things in this world you love very much?

Jesus and reading.

What was the last thing you ate?

Tea, which was stir fry.

Who is your favourite movie/book character?

I can't think of any characters that I like above the rest, I tend to like them all:)

(I prefer characters that have a quiet inner strength)

What is your favourite colour?

70% blue, 20% cream, 10% purple.

Are you random?

Do you have a totem animal?

How many people follow your main blog?

What is you favourite animal?

As you can see from the name of my blog I like Koalas, but I equally like platypus's, dolphins, dogs, and possums.

Downhill or Cross-Country skiing?

I'm not sure, I've never done either.

Soda or water?

Water

Weekends vs. School days?

School days........I'm crazy I know

Trees or flowers?

Trees

Regular Questions

What is your favourite movie?

Lord of the Rings

What is your favourite book?

I can never decide.....at the moment its probably one of Dee Henderson's books, but don't ask me too choose between them.

How long have you been on blogger for?

September 2008

Who are you going to tag?

Autumn, Elise, and Erin

How well do you know your Sayings?

2009-10-06T10:24:00.004+11:00

Do you know your proverbs and sayings well? Can you in at any time think up the saying that fits the situation perfectly? Like when your brother who has a habit to sleep in wakes up early, do you immediately swallow the impulse to say 'the early bird catches the worm.' Have a try at fitting the missing word to these well known proverbs and sayings. I will reveal the true phrase on Saturday. You can leave your answers in the comments.

An _______ a day keeps the doctor away.

A rolling ________ gathers no moss.

All roads lead to ________.

Necessity is the __________ of invention.

Money is the ________ of all evil.

Practice makes _________.

The ______ is mightier than the sword.

The Bellmaker by Brian Jacques

2009-10-05T21:39:00.005+11:00

In The Bellmaker, Mariel and Dandin from Mariel of Redwall are again the prominent characters. They are travelers, roving this way and that, seeking adventure. Gael Squirrelking and Serena his Squirrelqueen together with their son are held prisoner in their own castle by two vicious foxes. Mariel and Dandin in helping them escape are captured in their turn. Mariel's father Joseph the Bellmaker becoming worried by her continued abstinence, and being visited by Martin the Warrior in a dream, sets off after her.

I didn't enjoy this book as much as I do Brian Jacques other books. But I definitely recommend it. Upon thinking it over, the main reason that it wasn't as enjoyable for me was that Joseph figured so much in it, I don't like my main characters to be old.

Banana Bread

2009-10-04T22:44:00.004+11:00

Yesterday Gimli made Banana Muffins, they were delicious! But my favourite banana recipe is Banana Bread, and here is the recipe I use.

Ingredients

2 bananas
2 tablespoons of golden syrup
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup self-raising flour
pinch of salt

Method

Heat oven to 180°c (160°c fan forced)

Grease and line the base of a loaf pan.

In a medium bowl, mash bananas then add golden syrup. Add sugar and stir in. Add egg, sifted flour and salt and lightly mix until combined.

Pour loaf into pan and cook for 30 minutes or until a skewer is inserted into the middle and comes out clean.

Allow to cool in tin for 10 minutes, then turn onto wire rack to cool.

Enjoy it warm straight from the oven (my favourite) or lightly grill it and then enjoy with butter melting on top.

Tip: You can also make variations to this by throwing in a handful of chopped dates just before pouring into tin to bake or adding choc chips to make a choc banana bread.

Serves 8

A Post a Day

2009-10-02T18:14:00.003+10:00

I'm going to join Enna-Rin in her BEDO (Blog Every Day October.) I'm not sure how I'll go in posting something every day but I'll have a shot.
Just on a different note; it was the last day of school today, now it is holiday time!!!!!

Flowers and their Meanings

2009-10-01T20:13:00.003+10:00

I was reading a book recently and I came across a passage about the language of flowers. Like a rose means love. Here's some of the flowers and their meanings.

Acorn - Nordic symbol of life and immortality
Apple - Preference
Basil - Best Wishes, Love
Bluebell - Humility; Constancy
Buttercup - Cheerfulness
Cactus - Endurance; Warmth
Chrysanthemum - Cheerfulness; You're a wonderful friend
Clover - Good Luck
Daffodil - Respect
Daisy - Innocence
Dandelion - Wishes come true
Eucalyptus - Protection
Fern - Sincerity
Forget-Me-Not - True Love
Fir - Time
Garland of Roses - Reward of Virtue
Grass - Submission; Utility
Holly - Good will, Defense; Domestic Happiness; Foresight
Honeysuckle - Generous and devoted affection
Iris - Faith, Hope, Wisdom and Valour
Ivy - Fidelity and Friendship
Jasmine - Amiability; attracts wealth
Lavender - Devotion
Lemon - Zest
Lily of the Valley - Sweetness; return to happiness; humility
Marigold - Comforts the heart
Mint - Protection from illness; warmth of feeling
Moss - Maternal Love; Charity
Orange Blossom - Brings wisdom
Orchid - Love; beauty; refinement; beautiful lady; Chinese symbol for many children
Palm Leaves - Victory and success
Pine - Hope; Pity
Poppy - Eternal sleep; oblivion; imagination
Primrose - I can't live without you; early youth
There are many different meanings attached to a rose, red, white, pink, yellow, a bud, full bloom, they all have different meanings but for the most they mean Love.
Rosemary - Remembrance
Sage - Wisdom, a long life
Snapdragon - Deception; gracious lady; presumption
Strawberry - Perfect goodness
Sunflower - Loyalty; wishes
Sweetpea - Goodbye; departure; blissful pleasure; Thank you for a lovely time
Thyme - Strength and courage; ensures restful sleep
Tuilp - Fame; charity; perfect lover
Violet - Modesty; calms tempers; introduces sleep

We stand for God!

2009-10-01T19:37:00.003+10:00

I'm going to start posting up one hymn every week. I love hymns, especially old ones. They're my favorite way to pour out my heart to God.

We stand for God! and for His glory;
The Lord supreme and God of all;
Against His foes we raise His standard;
Around the Cross we hear His call.

Strengthen our faith, Redeemer;
Guard us when danger is nigh;
To Thee we pledge our lives and service;
For God we live, for God we'll die,
To Thee we pledge our lives and service,
For God we live, for God we'll die.

We stand for God! Jesus our Master
Has died to save with love untold;
His law divine and truth unchanging
In this our land their place must hold.

Strengthen our faith, Redeemer, etc.

We stand for God! In ages olden
He placed "the Cross" our stars beside;
Oh may our land gracios and golden
Be faithful to the Crucified.

Stregthen our faith, Redeemer, etc.

Mariel Of Redwall by Brian Jacques

2009-09-30T13:55:00.005+10:00

Mariel a young mousemaid, figures as the heroine in this gripping story. She has courage, determination, and wonderful friends. She is washed up on the fringes of Mossflower country, with no memory. She makes her way to Redwall Abbey where she is taken in. As her memory returns so does her desire for revenge.

With her friends she travels to Terramort Isle. Using only a poem written by a long gone traveler to guide them, the friends have many adventures on the way, battling herons, pikes, snakes,and even a tribe of Flitchayes to name a few of them.

As with all of Brian Jacques books it is superb! The plot is interesting, the characters are lifelike and the writing of the best. I definitely recommend this book.

What Lord of the Rings character are you?

2009-09-23T10:10:00.010+10:00

Go to this quiz and find out what Lord of the Rings character you are. I am most like Aragorn.

You are most like Aragorn. You have strong convictions and you stick to them. Although you are more of a recluse, you are extremely loyal to the few friends that you have. You are very serious about things, but you like having fun. Fame and fortune mean little to you, and you aren't concerned with being popular. Good for you!

Which Jane Austen heroine are you?

2009-09-22T17:13:00.006+10:00

I did this quiz and guess who I got!

You are Elinor Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! You are practical, circumspect, and discreet. Though you are tremendously sensible and allow your head to rule, you have a deep, emotional side that few people often see.

Why I'm Awesome

2009-09-22T14:23:00.007+10:00

It was Autmn from Storygirl who gave me this Award. Thank you Autmn

With the award there are three things I have to do;

1: List seven thing that make me Awe-Summm!!!

2: Pass the Award on to seven bloggers I read.

3: Tag those seven bloggers.

Well lets see what makes me awesome?

1. First of all I have to say how fast I read. I read about 500 words per minute (thats more than two pages a minute.)

2. I can out argue every one in my family, not just stubborness but bringing in facts to prove my point.

3. I've got the best family a girl ever had.

4. I know about God!

5. I'm blest with a brain that makes my schoolwork if not easy, not hard.

6. I can write really fast.

7. I'm sweet sixteen. (Had to think one more thing.)

The seven Bloggers I tag are my sister Princess, Erin and Enna-Rin. (I'm afraid thats only three but everyone else has already been tagged.)

A Grammar Lesson

2009-09-22T12:53:00.002+10:00

Today we're going to study descriptive passages.

'The gray heavens were showing every sign of lighting, in the east, particularly it was perceptive. Soft pink and red beams cast the shadows from the hills, moving over every tree and rock with warm rays. Then in tender solicitude it moved on down the valley till it reached the stream, a beautiful stream it was in the early dawn, with its sparkling gurgling waters made radiant by the sun. It dipped and glowed alight with all the colours of the rainbow.'

Now that descriptive passage is too fl... fl... flowery, it goes on and onuntilyou have quite forgotten what you're reading about.

This one isn't any better:

'The sun rose; its rays touching the hills and the stream.'

Now it's short and to the point, it tells all that's really important in the other, but it dosesn't describe the scene, there is no feeling the words, you can't conquer up a scene in 'the sun rose,' it just says what happened.

The passage should sound somthing more like this;

'The sky was slowly lighting, soft colourful beams moved over the hills causing them to come alive. Down in the valley, a swift flowing stream was touched by the sun, its rays made the water sparkle and glow as it meandered on its way.'

A Toungue-Twister

2009-07-23T17:11:00.004+10:00

Try saying it fast.

Betty Botter bought some butter,
But, she said, the butter's bitter;
If I put it in my batter
It will make my batter bitter,
But a bit of better butter
Will make my batter better.
So she bought a bit of butter
Better than her bitter butter,
And she put it in her batter
And the batter was not bitter.
So 'twas better Betty Botter
Bought a bit of better butter.

Outcast of Redwall by Brian Jacques

2009-07-23T16:14:00.001+10:00

Outcast of Redwall has as its main caricature a badger, Sunflash the Mace. He is capture when very young by a six clawed ferret. With the help of a Kestrel he makes his escape but not before he paralyses Swartt Sixclaw's paw. Sunflash, with Scarlath the kestrel wages war on all injustice.

Swartt Sixclaw's son was picked up when a baby from a ditch, where he was abandoned when Swartt tried to attack Redwall and suffered a retreat. The baby was bought up by Bryony a young Redwaller. The ferret was banished from Redwall when he was discovered to have poisoned a Redwaller. Bryony rebelling against the decree followed him. With her went her friend Togget.

This is an interesting story that will keep you wondering what will happen next. Sunflash is one of my favorite caricatures.

The Legend of Luke by Brian Jacques

2009-07-22T14:16:00.001+10:00

The Legend of Luke is about Martins father. Martin barely remembers his father and in an effort to find out what he was like. He journeys to his birthplace. There he finds some of his fathers companions, they had written a book and in reading it Martin, and you with him, will fully realize the true meaning of a warrior.

When Martins mother, Luke's wife, is killed in a raid of corsairs, Luke searches for the vermin stoat responsible for her death, Vilu Daskar.
This dramatic book will keep you turning the pages in suspense.

Mossflower by Brian Jacques

2009-07-22T13:14:00.001+10:00

Mossflower is a courageous story of the defenseless fighting against evil. Verdauga Greeneyes a wildcat, and his son and daughter have taken over Mossflower creating a reign of terror. The creatures of Mossflower are farmers not warriors and they have no way to fight the evil that has come to their peaceful Wood.

Bella, a badger, comes from a line of Warriors and although she is no warrior her father is. But he is far away, at Salamandastron. She asks Martin the Warrior to find him and bring him back to help them. Gonff the Mousethief, and Young Dinny the Mole travel with him on his search for the Mountain of Fire, Salamandastron.

Martin the Warrior by Brian Jacques

2009-07-22T12:29:00.002+10:00

Martin is a young mouse captured and enslaved by Lord Badrang a vermin stoat. Taken from his home he is forced to build a fortress for the tyrant, until he is rescued by Rose of Noonvale and her friend Grumm. With the help of a band of traveling players they fight to free the other slaves.

Although Martin the Warrior isn't my favorite Redwall book it is definitely worth reading.

Brian Jacques

2009-07-22T10:09:00.001+10:00

Brian Jacques is the author of the Redwall and Flying Dutchman Series. I have read all his series books except Doomwyte which hasn't yet come out.

The Redwall Series in

Chronological Order

Martin the Warrior (1993)

Mossflower (1988)

The Legend of Luke(1999)

Outcast of Redwall (1995)

Mariel of Redwall (1991)

The Bellmaker (1994)

Salamandastron (1992)

Redwall (1986)

Mattimeo (1989)

The Pearls of Lutra (1996)

The Long Patrol (1997)

Marlfox (1998)

Lord Brocktree (2000)

Taggerung (2001)

Triss (2002)

Loamhedge (2003)

Rakkety Tam (2004)

High Rhulain (2005)

Eulalia! (2007)

Doomwyte (not yet out) (2008)

The Flying Dutchman Series in

Chronological Order

Castaways of the Flying Dutchman(2001)

The Angel’s Command (2003)

Voyage of Slaves (2006)

Brian Jacques' books are masterpieces! They are truly amazing!

The Jewel of Unity: Chapter Five

2009-03-23T11:26:00.000+11:00

It was dusk on the fourth day and they had stopped to make camp, Granger and Clarissa were gathering wood for the fire when they heard a low whine,

"It sounds like it came from over there" said Granger pointing to a thorny thicket twenty metres away. Clarissa nodded her agreement as she heard the sound again, the third time it sounded, she dropped the sticks and peered into the depths of the thicket.

"Its a dog!" she exclaimed, Granger crouched down beside her, at the sight of him the dog growled.

"Poor thing" said Granger compassionately "he must be half starved"

Clarissa began chopping with her dagger at the vines growing around her "what are you doing?" Asked Granger "I'm going to get him out of there" said Clarissa hacking savagely at tough vine.
Granger shook his head "You can't do that he is half mad with fear and hunger, you will get bitten."

Clarissa shook her head "I can't leave him here to die, and a bite or two won't be half as painful as my conscience would be if I left him here."

She moved the vine away and crawled into the small tunnel she had made, she slithered forwarded on her stomach and chopping the vines in front of her she slowly made her way to the trapped dog.

"Its OK, its OK, I'm not going to hurt you! Now you just stay still while I free you." And murmuring softly Clarissa chopped and hacked at the tough vines that held the dog captive.

The dog seemed to understand her. He uttered a short bark, then watched Clarissa with his heart in his eyes.

Clarissa continued to make reassuring noises as she pulled at the vines surrounding the dog.

"Your free!" she exclaimed as the last vine fell from the dog, and picking him up she made her way down the small tunnel she had made.

When they came into camp with the dog everyone instantly stopped what they were doing and began petting the dog and talking about him.

"Where did you get the puppy?"

"He looks half starved, here's a bit of water for him."

"His coat would be quite lovely if it wasn't matted with dirt and burs."

Clarissa ignored their questions and instead asked "may I keep him?" although it was Charles she asked, it was at Woodward she looked as she anxiously waited for an answer.

"Ok," said Charles "the puppy dosn't look like it would eat much, and it's a good idea to have a watchdog."

Woodward nodded at this and affered "I'll help you train him if you like?"

Clarissa smiled happily and nodded "that will be great! I want him to be the best dog ever!"

Bold Bruce Backward

2009-03-02T09:50:00.001+11:00

Bruce Backward was an outlaw
His ways were bold and blunt
And everything that outlaws did
Bold Bruce did back-to-front.

He bailed up a coach and pair
One morning bright and sunny
Roared, "Everybody make a move!"
Then gave them all his money.

He burst into the local bank
With robbery in mind
Then, chuckling, he stole the safe
And left the gold behind.

His first attempt at kidnapping
Was backward as could be
The ransom note said "Pay up
Or I'll set the children free."

Alas, the law caught up with Bruce
They tried him in the street
And, since it was his last request,
They hanged him by the feet.

By Doug MacLeod

A Map of the path the Four will follow

2009-02-11T12:41:00.000+11:00

The Jewel of Unity: Chapter Four

2008-12-04T09:57:00.000+11:00

King Gerik broke the silence that had fallen on the hall "Granger" he said "I will talk to you after lunch, and tell you what news Prince Charles has brought. But for now let us adjoin," he turned to the three "I will assign a guide to you."

In their rooms Charles and Woodward spoke freely, while Clarissa listened eagerly in the doorway, ostensibly she was waiting for instructions but really she was listening ad vividly to what they were saying "so" concluded Charles "we've got to find out all that the dwarves know about the Jewel of Unity and the marsh its in."

Woodward court sight of Clarissa, "are you coming with us? He spoke softly "this is more adventure than you bargained for at the Inn."

Clarissa's eyes were filled with determination, "I'm coming all right, before you said you were going I was trying to figure out how I could go by myself."

Charles nodded "ok! We’ll leave as soon as we find out from the King all there is to know about the marsh, it would help if we knew whereabouts the Tower is situated."

After lunch Charles requested speech with his host, he came back to the rooms his eyes twinkling "we leave early tomorrow!"

Woodward looked startled "don't they have anything on the marsh?"

His companion laughed "of cause they do."

Woodward gapped "but you can't have read all there is to know about it all ready, why you've only been gone a couple of minutes."

Charles put him out of his misery "no, I haven't, but Granger the Kings son has, and after hearing my story about the Crown of Power, Gerik has decided to let Granger go after the Jewel. It seems Granger's been begging to go ever since those letters turned up, and has read every book and document on the subject."

The rest of the day was spent gathering supplies, fitting horses, and buying cloaks and clothes suited to the terrain they would cover.

Early next morning they were off, but before they left the King and Queen addressed a few words to them "you four may be the means of which Earth falls of stands. We wish you the best wishes we can convey, and as a sign of our appreciation we give to you these," and the King and Queen handed four daggers to them. "They are the best daggers any creature can make, may they serve you well on your mission to find the Jewel of Unity."

The Four adventures buckled on the sheaths and Charles said for them all "Your Majesties, a creature can but do his best and this we promise you we will do. If the Jewel is there we will find it and bring it back to triumph over Roarke."

With that they set out.

The Jewel of Unity: Chapter Three

2008-11-27T17:12:00.000+11:00

The next morning when Clarissa woke she couldn't think why she was so happy, then she remembered! And sighed in ecstasy she was going to see the world!

Clarissa bounded out of bed and packed, it didn't take long she had only one spare set of clothes, and a hoarded piece of paper with a pen, a present from one guest who had taught her to read and write when holed up in a ferocious storm. Clarissa had learn’t quickly, and most guests had been willing to help her when she asked.

After she had eaten she readied the horses, picking for herself the servants horse, a mare, deep brown in colour.

Charles nodded his approval when he came out, the innkeeper and his wife each gave Clarissa a hug and admonished her to come back some day, than they were off.

They rode for same time in silence than Clarissa becoming bold asked "what is the horse I'm riding's name?"

"Oh didn't I tell you? it's Gentle," said Charles, "and mines called Starbuck."

"And mines Quicksilver," said Woodrow.

After that they became quite merry, until Clarissa wondered that she had known them only one day and not a lifetime.

Most of the journey was spent this way, until Clarissa felt she wasn't their servant but their chum who did all the work, and they seemed to regard her as such.

Charles was the leader he controlled the conversation, making Clarissa feel at home. But it was Woodrow that she liked most, quieter than Charles, he was more inclined to think than talk. He had a sense of humour, as she had guessed when she first met him, and often set them in paroxysms of laughter.

They regarded Clarissa so much as a chum that when they reached the King of Dwarves, they took Clarissa with them, and so it was that Clarissa was there when Charles told The King what had happened to the Crown of Power.

Gerik listened with a sober face to what had come to pass, when Charles had finished Gerik said "well I know your father and I'm sure that there was no lack of watchfulness on his part, I do have something that may console you though."

He turned to a dwarf that was standing near by "ask Granger, my son, to join us and tell him to bring the letters we found in the tunnel with him."

Granger didn't keep them waiting long; he went up to his father and asked excitedly have you changed your mind? will you let me go?" His father smiled fondly "maybe, but right now I want you to read the letters to the Prince of Men and the Prince of Elves."

Granger nodded "ok Father." He turned to face the three "we found these letters in an old tunnel a week ago, while we were digging for riches. It is an account of the Dark War, written by the old dwarf kings. It reads

The Queen of dwarfs
at the place on the 16 march

'Darling,

Summons have come, our worst fears have been recognized, The Dark Lord is going to try to take over Earth. There is going to be a war in which men, elves and dwarfs decide whether we fall or conquer. The summons bid me to assemble my warriors and ride to the Kippen plains, where the battle will take place. I fear that I will be unable to see you before we leave.

Your devoted husband Baja

The Queen of Dwarfs
at the palace on the 30 March

Sweetness,

I've just arrived at the plains and had a council with the Kings. We are evenly matched in numbers with The Dark Lord, he has the Crown of Power though, which makes his goblins more firmly his, with the Crown of Power the goblins will attack with three times their normal ferocity.

But we too have help; we have the Ring of Courage! the Ring of Courage is a plain gold band, quite a simple ring really, but when the wearer tries to give someone else courage the band will light up, the word courage will appear engraved around the outside of the band and a flash of gold light emits from it, giving all those who are on the wearers side courage, of which the bravest man would envy.

And we have the Jewel of Unity! This Jewel gives us the unity that we will need to fight Roarke, the Jewel is a giant ruby, if someone stands within five meters of it and utters the elvish word unitus, which means united. It will glow a fiery red and bathe all that creatures allies in a red glow, which units them and brings them together so they fight as one.

I love you,
Baja

The Queen of Dwarfs
at the Palace on the 1 April

Dearest,

The most awful thing happened last night! The Ring of Courage and the Jewel of Unity were stolen by a man named Keshon who is working for Roarke, He was in the army for the only so he could get his hands on the Ring and Jewel.

We have caught one of his men; we promised him his life if he told everything that he knew. His story is that Keshon is taking the Jewel to Merok Tower! This is situated in the north, in the midst of a marsh.

I have heard of this marsh before and it is said that the mist is so thick that you can't see your hand in front of your face, the paths are all mixed up twisting and turning until your lost, most of the paths end in sinking sand and pools of slime. They say that none come out alive.

The man we caught said that Keshon dropped the Ring of Courage when he was running from our men; they realized they had lost it but was unable to stop to look. We have searched the camp for the Ring but couldn't find it. Most likely the Ring fell into a hole, was buried and will remain there forever, or some peasant has picked it up for his wife and kept it, maybe years from now we shall hear of it.

We have sent riders after Keshon in the hope of finding his trail, but it is a forlorn hope for Keshon is a master of hiding his trail.

The battle is tomorrow and although the Ring and Jewel have been lost we are not entirely without hope, our army's are the same size, and we all know that defeat means we shall lose our freedom and our way of life that earth will become a place of terror and fear. We will do all we can to prevent this.

Your worried but loving husband,
Baja

The Queen of dwarfs
at the palace on the 2 April

Bestest of best,

We have Won! But at what a price, there is not one creature that will not bear scares from this battle.

We were about even at the beginning, then Roarke appeared in the middle of his army with the Crown of Power on his head, his goblins fought harder and we fell back, just then Peter the Prince of men along with Igor the Prince of elves made a brake through the enemy's ranks and fought their way to Roarke. It was marvelous to watch them, their swords flashed like fire, their arrows sped fast and true, once they reached Roarke Peter fought him while Igor kept the whole Dark army off his back.

Peter killed Roarke seconds before Igor fell beneath fifty goblins. The goblins fled the field when Roarke died and the battle was ended. Peter died of his wounds before aid could reach him. So those two heroes can have been said to win the war by themselves, they had the Courage and Unity that was needed to win!

We have decided to keep the Crown of Power in the hope that someday it will be used for good.

a triumphant dwarf,
Baja'

And that" concluded Granger “is the end of the letters."

Three bears and Goldilocks also Mighty River

2008-11-27T11:39:00.000+11:00

The other day I came across a story and a poem that I had written in October last year, as they interested me I have copied them here.

The Three Bears and Goldilocks

Once upon a time there was a Papa bear, a mama bear and a little Tiny Bear. And they all went to space in a rocket; they climbed into their seats, buckled up their seat belts.
3, 2, 1 blast off.
The rocket whizzed off into space. The bears took off their seat belts and floated around it was fun. But after awhile it got rather tiring with all their food floating away from them.
They reached the moon, after many days travel. The three bears put on special space suits that they could breathe in. (The air in space is to thin to breath.) And walked around, taking photos of everything that they could see; so others could also enjoy the sight of the moon.
After they had taken enough pictures and samples of dust they walked back to the rocket and plummeted back to earth.
As they drew nearer they saw everything spread below like a map. When they were closer they activated a parachute that acted like a brake. They descended slowly onto the ocean and a helicopter rescued them.
They rode in the helicopter till they came to a village; there they asked the pilot if he could let them down. The bear was happy to oblige and also took the photos to the people that wanted them.
The bears started out for their cottage they walked for a long time and then they realized they were hopelessly lost, they continued walking hoping to come to somewhere they could ask directions.
Suddenly they saw a cottage nestled in amongst the trees. They knocked on the door and when nobody answered the three bears just walked right in. It was a very cozy cottage with an armchair, a lounge and also a table with a bowl of porridge on it and in another room a bed.
Papa bear was very hungry and he tasted the porridge on the table. But it was to cold, Mamma bear also tasted it and she said it was to hot, tiny bear said in a wee little voice
“I will eat anything too hot or too cold.”
And with that he sat down and ate it all up:
“Delicious” he pronounced “Just the right temperature.”
Than Papa bear sat in the armchair he sunk right down
“Too soft” he growled
Mamma bear was very tired.
“That armchair is just the thing” she said;
“Aww” she jumped up with a cry “It’s too hard.”
Little tiny bear was exploring, and found another room, the kitchen. It had a stove and a sink in it. Just than he heard another cry from mamma bear, when he found her she was holding her back and saying that the person that lived here must like a sore back and bottom.
Tiny bear said “Is the bed that hard, I’ll try it” And he laid down on the bed; “Just right” he murmured as he fell asleep.
“I’ve never seen anyone fall asleep that fast” was papa bears only comment.
They both walked into the adjoining room.
“I’ll just wait here.” Said mama bear comfortably settling herself on the lounge
“Do you think the owner will soon be back?” asked Papa bear but receiving no answer he lay on the floor and promptly fell asleep.
It was to this scene the owner of the cottage returned to, hungry from her long walk.
As soon as she opened the door she perceived papa bear on the floor and with a cry she ran past mama bear and in to her bedroom intending to lock the door on them.
She pulled up in surprise when she saw tiny bear in her bed. With a cry of dismay, she wheeled intending to run out of the cottage, and leave it to the bears. But her cry woke up tiny bear. He jumped out of the bed with a start.
“Hello” he said in a surprised voice “Are you the owner of this cottage.”
The little girl turned in amazement “Your not going to hurt me?” she asked in wonderment.
“No. we don’t eat people. We only came here to ask directions” answered tiny bear.
“Oh, where do you want to go?” Asked the girl,
“To our cottage, it’s green with red around the windows and an orange fence with a purple gate,” Replied tiny bear.
“I know that one its not far from here I’ll show you the way. But first would you like to stay to lunch?” Asked the little girl;
Little bear had to agree. He than introduced her to his parents as, Goldilocks!

Here's the poem.

The Mighty River

The creek, dashes over rocks and pebbles,
And gently sweeps the bends in its bed
It moves along its tree strewn banks,
And waters the grasses at its edge.
Faster and faster, its water flows
Collecting runoff as it goes.
Swelling and bubbling on its path,
Always welcomed by the River.
The River, deepened from the generous creek,
Flowing slowly, browned from its muddy bed.
Its green banks alive to lizards and insects
Kangaroos, drink deep from its surface.
Dragonflies, hover over the wide water
Lucky to avoid dangers lurking beneath,
The Osprey darting down, intent upon a meal
While the frogs croak within the reedy shallows.
More creeks, and more streams add their water;
The rains have been, and the River swells, and swirls,
Flood waters sweep down the normally placid river,
Trees dislodged, add their weight down the heavy torrent.
The River travels on and on, with more creeks adding to its power.
It’s pounding waters rising higher and higher, pushing and pushing
Reaching its mouth, it strikes out into the open sea
Disgorging its load, muddying the sea and flattening the waves.
The Mighty River has spoken.

The Jewel of Unity: Chapter Two

2008-11-27T09:03:00.000+11:00

"When I was very young I noticed that my father was a week and selfish King, I was just a boy than but I made a pact with myself that I would make up for my fathers deficiencies. I practiced long and hard with my weapons, until I was the best in the court. I asked my fathers advisers why they said what they said, I studied hard at my lessons, especially those of other languages. In short I did every thing I could think of that would make me a better King.

One day my father and I had a difference of opinion on some minor detail and he accused me of trying to to be King. He has banished me from the kingdom for fear that I was trying to take the throne. Instead of helping him I have made him hate me."

Charles had made no comment throughout the story but now it was finished he said slowly "I am sorry. But I am glad you confided in me , I will repay your confidence with my own.

I am on my way to the dwarfs with news of great importance, when the dark lord Roarke was defeated the crown of power was hidden secretly, as you know Roarke was powerful himself but only with the crown of power could he hope to succeed in ruling this planet. The kings of old thought that one day the Crown could be used for good. The Crown has vanished hiding spot! I hope that the dwarf King Gerik will know what to do."

"But Roarke was killed in the war" objected Woodrow

"I know" said Charles "but his descendants still live, and one them has named himself Roarke, and I suspect stole the Crown. It won't be long now until there's another war. And I'm not sure of the results."

They looked at each other soberly for a few moments envisioning the terror and destruction that would soon sweep the planet.

Then Charles with a change of mood said swiftly "now that's enough solemness for one night, have you any funny stories?"

When Bill came in awhile later they were laughing and joking, "You look like you haven't a care in the world" he remarked.

"Oh I have one" said Charles with a smile "I need to find a new servant. Is there anyone in the village you could recommend, they would just have to know how to take care of horses and cook a meal, for the times we don't reach an inn."

Bill shook his head slowly "there's no one I can. None of the people in this village can take care of horses their livelihood is fish. Besides I doubt they would like to go traipsing around the planet when they could stay at home."

Clarissa rose from her hidden seat beside the heath, she had come to a quick decision while Bill talked, "I'll be your servant" she said.

"Are yer crazy Clarissa?" bellowed Bill, before the princes could respond "yer wana go wandering away from yer home with a prince yer don't know, ter who knows where!"

Clarissa who had overheard the confidences of the princes could have said she knew them. But instead she said "I want to see the world! To have adventures! I can never do that here. The prince wants a servant, I think I'm admirably fitted for the job. The only things I love in this world is adventure, boats, cooking and horses. And except for boats, that is exactly what the prince wants done."

"Wes took care of yer since yous were a baby" growled Bill "wes took yer in when yor mother and yorself were washed up in ar barrel. What would yor mother say to hear her daughter was traipsing all o'er the planet?"

Clarissa chuckled "since mother was aboard a ship it seems likely she traipsed all over the planet too," then her manner intensified "I'll never be happy here, I want to explore! To branch out! I'll never be satisfied to stay here all my life, its time I took care of myself, and here's the chance. Please understand Mr. Bill."

Charles had stood listening quietly to all that was said, he felt strangely drawn to the girl, he made a decision "I'll take you Miss" he said "if someone can give you a character reference, to ensure your not likely to steal my horses at first chance."

Bill growled softly "if she's gonna go I guess I can give her one. She's honest, once ran four kilometers ter give a man a silver coin 'e had dropped. She's dependable, never once had a complaint about 'er all the years she's worked at the inn. She's truthful, never heard 'er tell a lie. She's levelheaded, saved a boy from bein' gored to death by a bull, ran an' waved a red cloak she used ter wear, saved 'im just in time. I think thet'll be all yer need."

Charles nodded "your on" he said to Clarissa "I'm going to leave early in the morning, you'll have to have the horses all ready."

Woodrow who had been a silent spectator up till now spoke "may I come with you Charles? I feel that I would prefer you with me when I meet your father."

Charles chuckled "certainly, come! and welcome."

A Gathering of Memories

2008-11-26T19:55:00.001+11:00

The second on my list of favourite books is A Gathering of Memories by Lori Wick this romance pictures as its heroine a beautiful eighteen year old American girl who has just lost her mother, with her four younger siblings she is taken in by a young couple while the sheriff looks for her father.
Amy and Silas the couple who took them in are two lovely people and their family take the children to their hearts.

The Jewel of Unity: Chapter One

2008-11-26T12:31:00.000+11:00

"Clarissa!" The call which rang out over the beach came from a sharp tempered woman standing in the kitchen door way of an old inn, in response to the summons a beautiful girl dressed in ragged clothing swam with strong stokes to the shore, and ran to the inn.

"There you are, you lazy girl! an elf has arrived and his horse needs to be watered and fed, when you've done that you can help me make tea. Hurry up now!"

Clarissa ran to the stables with a smile on her face, a horse! perhaps if she asked politely the elf would allow her to ride it! She blinked as she entered the stables after the light outdoors the building was particularly dark, in the gloom she could make out the dark shape of a horse, her eyes adjusted completely, she gave tongue to a low whistle of appreciation, he was a beauty, with muscles rippling, head held high and silver hair gleaming, he was magnificent!

Clarissa moved forward softly and stroked his nose, then she took an old halter down from the wall and placed it round his neck, slowly she led him to the old trough that stood outside, when he was finished she combed him thoroughly and fed him hay and grain. Everything she had done she did with precision and slowness prolonging everything so it would last longer. but now there was nothing left that she could do, and with a wistful sigh she patted the horse and went into the inn.

There she was kept busy mixing, cooking, scrubbing and running errands so it wasn't until she served tea that she saw the elf.

She had somehow conquered up a picture of a fifty year old elf with grey hair and a stern countenance. What she saw was a handsome elf of about twenty, with brown hair and brown eyes that twinkled and snapped as if at some private joke.
Clarissa had time for no more than one startled look for just than there came a sound of hooves in the courtyard, she quickly placed the elf's plate in front of him than walked hurriedly outside. A man seeing her figure in the twilight called out

"is this the inn? I have a man who has a broken leg with me."

Clarissa answered quickly "yes this is the inn. Wait there a second while I get a man to help lift him down."

She ran into the tap room and said breathlessly "Mr. Bill there's a man with a broken leg outside can you please come and help lift him of his horse and into his room."

The Innkeeper grunted and moved out from behind the bar with Clarissa toward the door. The Elf spoke than "may I help?" the Innkeeper nodded a yes and continued walking outside he made his way up to the man holding both horses and said "whadya want me ter do?"

The Stranger inclined his head towards the man spread across on of the horses, "will you help me carry him in please? if you'll take his shoulder's I'll take his legs." Bill moved to do as he had asked. With the elf helping they soon had him inside. "Have you anyone in this village who knows what to do with broken legs?" asked the man of Bill, the elf spoke up than and said "I have had some experience with setting broken bones. If you will permit me?" And he bent over the prone man.

"Now that's over," Said Bill half an hour later "I suppose you will be staying here tonight?" After the man had acquiesced he bade Clarissa to prepare another tea and room.

Once the two customers were seated around the table the man turned to the elf and said
"I don't know how to thank you for caring for my servant Mr. err"
as he hesitated over the name the elf supplied it "Woodrow, son of King Aubrey. And don't mention it, I was glad to help."

Clarissa looked at the prince in amazement, she realised now why he had such a fine horse but while she was still gaping in surprise at Woodrow the man spoke again "and my name is Charles, son of King Nathaniel. Since you will take no thanks, I mealy will say you have my deepest gratitude, and if ever there is something I can do for you don't hesitate to ask."

Clarissa looked over at Bill who was polishing the beer taps as though it was no big deal to have royalty dinning in his tap room, than after giving each a beer she exited the room to think it over and house the horses.

When she returned to clear the table it was obvious that the two Princes were enjoying each others company tremendously. After tea they moved into the small room of the tap room where the guests at the inn were accustomed to retire, the two Princes, as they were the only guests, had it to themselves.

Clarissa after she had finished the work she had to do went in to light a fire for them, eager for any news they might share. In a lapse of the conversation Woodward suddenly said abruptly "you said before that if there was anything you could do to help me, just to ask, will you ask your father to take me on in his army?"

Charles looked at him a moment in surprise then said "certainly, I'm sure my father will take you. But excuse my curiosity, why does a prince of elves want to join an army of men?"
Woodrow hesitated a moment than nodded decisively "I will tell you" he said.

Marnie's Wedding

2008-09-15T11:42:00.001+10:00

Marnie was married last week. It was a beautiful wedding , the bride was loverly, she absloutly radiated with happiness.
My aunt Tim Tam was a bridesmaid along with one of her friends and myself. One of Marnie's best friends was her Maid of Honour.
Yoda was a page boy with another boy, Princess and Jelly Bean were flower girls, Legolas was an usher.
Timba the groom had a friend of his as best man, my uncle Cally Wally was groomsman.

A City of Bells

2008-09-04T14:31:00.001+10:00

I've decided that since I've so many favourite books (they really are all my favourites,) it's only fair to write about them. I'm going to start with "A City of Bells." (because its the first on my list,) and continue until all my favourite books are honored with book reports. (By that time I'll probably have more favourites.)

A City of Bells by Elizabeth Goudge has a man named Jocelyn as the main character, he is a soldier trying to find out what he should do as his career. His family have plenty of jobs for him but none of them are suited to himself. He runs to his Grandparents to rest, in a quiet gossipy town. The town gossips then decide for themselves his career, Jocelyn takes it on.

Felicity Summers a young actress, helps him. When Jocelyn uncovers a man's ghost, they all pull together to publish its life story. Henrietta a nine year-old granddaughter adopted by Grandfather plays a main part in this romance, along with question loving Hugh, an orphaned grandchild, Grandfather a man renowned for his saintliness and Grandmother who is a little sharp but shows her love all the same.