Wolff 'n' Stuff

Perth Zoo

2011-08-21T22:51:00.003+10:00

On Saturday we went to Zoo. It was perfect with sun shining and a whole day of wearing out the kids. The last time I went to the Zoo was when I was a little girl visiting Taronga Park Zoo in Sydney. My favourite animal was the Rhinos. They are ALOT bigger in real life than on TV! Lucas liked the tree kangaroos, Alex liked the elephants, Airi liked the Meerkats and Grace couldn't decided so she liked them all. But now Alex says she likes them all also... haha! Anyway just wanted to share (mainly for mum and dad because they don't have facebook)

Love you all...
Elsi xo

Day 13 - Sunset on the Rhein River

2011-08-13T17:33:00.003+10:00

Walking back to Gottliebsen village on the Swiss side of the Bodensee

Day 12 - Sunflowers and apple trees

2011-08-13T17:31:00.003+10:00

Walking to the village of Gottliebsen from Konstanz

Day 11 - Music Day

2011-08-13T17:11:00.002+10:00

She sounded very French when she sang

Day 10 - Palais Garnier or Paris Opera

2011-08-13T16:58:00.003+10:00

The Phantom of the Opera lived (died) here.

Day 9 - Paris by Eurostar

2011-08-13T16:53:00.005+10:00

My hotel on a quiet Paris street in the 8th arr

Day 7 - Day at the 'seaside'

2011-08-03T07:53:00.005+10:00

A day in Bournemouth - relax Kiaan. On the way discovered Jane Austen is buried at Winchester cathedral.

Day 6 - London museums

2011-08-01T16:24:00.004+10:00

Raphael in the Victoria & Albert Museum. Also went to Science Museum, Imperial War Museum, wandered through Hyde Park chapel(not one inspired to talk), Selfridges to see if Christmas shopping is out and napped in Hyde Park. Missed evensong at St Pauls :(

Day 5 - BBQ with the neighours

2011-07-31T17:44:00.003+10:00

Proof that English BBQs in the summer do exist! Kiaan on a water slide at a BBQ with Caroline's neighbour. Lovely people.

Day 4 - Olney and Stoke Bruerne

2011-07-30T18:01:00.007+10:00

Swans on the Ouse River at Olney. Famous for the Shrove Tuesday pancake race, Battle of Olney Bridge and Cowper & Newton museum

Day 3 - Sherwood Forest

2011-07-29T20:01:00.002+10:00

Caroline and I went to Sherwood Forest while Kiaan was at his dad's house. Caroline also managed to lock us out of the car when we got back... it's a nice place to be locked out.

2011-07-29T08:58:00.002+10:00

A london street scene near Salisbury house

Visiting Caroline and Kiaan

2011-07-27T17:35:00.001+10:00

This is the first of a daily picture I promised Laura, Chloe and Emily while I travel around and visit with Caroline and Kiaan. I figure wolffsnstuff is a good place to put them so everyone have a look and because Elsi said it's being neglected.

Day 1 on the plane

2011-07-27T17:25:00.005+10:00

My Baptism

2011-07-21T16:38:00.005+10:00

Joseph Smith said: “You might as well baptize a bag of sand as a man, if not done in view of the remission of sins and getting of the Holy Ghost. Baptism by water is but half a baptism, and is good for nothing without the other half—that is, the baptism of the Holy Ghost” (History of the Church, 5:499).

Thanks Dad and Dad-dad for making my baptism whole. And thank you to everyone that came.

Love
Airi

NEOC 44 Graduation

2011-07-21T13:56:00.004+10:00

Hello Family,

Sorry I had to take off this post for security reason. All post of Navy stuff are only up for a limited time so if you missed out on the video then I can email you.

Love Elsi

2011-04-28T22:06:00.003+10:00

So I was reading my post from Feb 1st, stating that Lucas and I have been posted to HMAS Kuttabul in Sydney. Well here is the update... we have been OFFICIALLY posted to HMAS Sterling in PERTH! YES PERTH! Not sure what the deal is with telling us that we were going to Sydney only to get postings a month later saying Perth, but thats the Navy for ya I guess. While it was a bit annoying and sad that we won't be so close to Family and friends, its not all that bad. We did have to go to Perth at some point in Lucas career so this way we can get it out of the way and possible be able to move to Melbourne in a couple of years. But of course this isn't an announcement. I have learned that nothing is officially until you have that email saying, "Posting Order".
We move in Mid to late June and look forward to the adventures, trials and joys that our new home will bring.
Lucas is coming to the end of his training with only 7 weeks to go. YAY! It was a real blessing to be able to share Easter with him and visit Rob and Beth also. Although saying goodbye to him at the end of the week was just as hard as it was 3 months ago. But I know that these last 7 weeks will go by so fast. Lucas will be out bush all next week and then is out on a ship touring Asia the week after that for 3 weeks. Then we he gets back it will be time for graduation. While I will be here organising our big move, among other things!
Well I hope that everyone has had a great and wonderful Easter. For me it was good that Easter and Anzac Day fell on the same time, not only because I got to see Lucas for longer but for the fact that I was able to remember my Savior and what he has done for me. How he was resurrected and lives today and that as we as a nation paused to remember our fallen soldiers, I know that they will all live again because He Lives.

Love to you all...
P.S don't forget to check out Lucas's youtube video from my previous post! oh and the pictures are of Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay. It was gorgeous and it was a bit over cast too. Hyams beach is the one voted the Whitest Sand in the World but we didn't have time to get to that one! I LOVED JERVIS BAY!, if I had of known what it was like I would of moved down for these last 6 months for sure.

Elsi xox

Anzac Day 2011

2011-04-28T21:03:00.011+10:00

Ok so I have been trying all day to put this video up of Lucas being the Guard Commander for Anzac day but it just doesn't want to work so I had to load it onto youtube. Just let me know and I will email you the link.

Love to you all
Elsi xox

Just saying Hi.... again!

2011-02-01T11:30:00.005+10:00

Ok so I don't know what happen to my last post but I started writing the the title and then it decided that it wanted to post it just like that. Anyways I was cleaning my house today (as you do) and I came across the folder with all the past family ties in them. Of course now we get them sent out through email but it was really good to read some of the past newsletters! It made me ponder on the blessings I have received since being married. The joys and the sometimes sadness that we have all gone through the past years and how far we have all come. It really made me think about the most important things in life... FAMILY!! I love being part of a great and growing family who have taught me many things and helped me develop as a mum,wife and friend. As I did my VT yesterday there was a quote that really made an impression on me that I think can definitely be applied to us all... President Spencer W. Kimball explained, “We know that women who have deep appreciation for the past will be concerned about shaping a righteous future.” And so I love seeing how we all shape our futures as individuals and as a family!.... AND in saying that my news today is... We have been posted to HMAS Kuttabul in SYDNEY. Lucas is yet to send official documents to me so that I can organise moving but I think that we will be moving in the early March. Love to you all xox

p.s pictures are from Tilba when we went camping in Dalmeny.

Just saying Hi...

2011-02-01T11:30:00.001+10:00

New Years Eve 2010

2011-01-01T14:47:00.003+10:00

Hi Family,

Here are just some of the photos from our new years eve beach day. We had a great day with Tim and Jill and the kiddies at Rainbow Bay (our new default beach!). Its was perfect, with sunshine, waves and acrobatic wild dolphins. I really did feel blessed to surround by such beauty and great family! After a long day at the beach we all went back to Tim and Jill's for light dinner and then walks on the beach to watch the fireworks. We had thought about doing a bon fire on the beach but with 7 hyped up little children we thought that it wasn't a good mix! Anyways I just wanted to post something little and share this great talk from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland called "The Best is Yet to be" (http://lds.org/ensign/2010/01/the-best-is-yet-to-be?lang=eng). May we all look ahead and remember that Faith is always pointed toward the Future...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
xox

Merry Christmas

2010-12-20T16:16:00.001+10:00

Just thought we'd send out a little Christmas cheer...besides, Ali couldn't stop laughing at Reef in this video!!!

Collingwood Week!

2010-10-10T16:52:00.005+10:00

In response to the request set out to everyone by Joe, we thought that we would put pics of our own collingwood party! Lucas made the gingerbread men the day before the great win... can you guess who is who from the team?

Good Old Collingwood Forever

2010-10-05T17:28:00.004+10:00

Speaking of neglect, as the last post did. I find it hard to believe that what should have been one of the biggest days for the Wolff family in the last 20 years has gone unrecorded on Wolff'n'Stuff! I guess what was a big day for some may not have been quite as big for others. The following video may help illustrate this...

HI EVERYONE

2010-04-01T15:54:00.004+10:00

Kawehi and Ollie 2004 (just because)

Our blog has been very neglected in 2010. If it wasn't for Reef and his crazy antics, we would have nothing at all. The interesting thing is, when I look at the sitemeter I am always amazed to see that we still have visitors each and every day. I am also surprised when I click on location and see people who have visited from all over the world; Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Hungary, and India and the list goes on and on. Although I find all of the different visitors interesting, this blog was never meant for strangers from around the globe. It was meant to provide a way for us to record the more significant things that happen within our family, to help us all feel more connected to each other despite the distance apart. I am hoping we can get this back on track.

Reef the Skater Boy!

2010-02-28T06:49:00.004+10:00

Reef would like to thank Train for the music and Caleb for the great camera work!

Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spidereef!

2010-01-19T15:58:00.003+10:00

Got some footage of Reef crawling on the grass at Dalmeny and just had to do something with it!

The latest instalment of Reef

2009-12-30T10:56:00.002+10:00

Almost 11 months old and lovin' his California Rolls!

ROBBIE'S NAVY GRADUATION

2009-11-24T22:04:00.008+10:00

Earlier this month Robbie graduated from the Navy. Many family members were able to attend (including Mum, Dad, Grandpa, Josh, Debora, Caroline, Lizzie, Steven, Auntie Pat, Uncle Rob, Auntie Rae and Robbie's friend Bethany.) The ceremony was spectacular and patriotic feelings were in abundance.

WELL DONE ROBBIE!!

2009-09-26T18:21:00.008+10:00

I have been doing a lot of thinking lately about life, family, and happiness. I used to sit on the beach in Hawaii and watch the families having fun in the waves and on the beach. I remember thinking that I too would love to raise my kids in the salty sea air and water. So different from how I was raised in land-locked, bitter-cold Idaho. We have enjoyed our time on the Gold Coast and here in Cairns but we know it is time to move on. Although I will always prefer tropical weather; I have come to realize that being close to family is more important than the beach. Perhaps that is the definition of heaven- living in a beautiful (warm) place with family and good friends. Tim and I have decided that we are moving early next year; we are not quite sure where yet. Wherever it is we do know this-that it will be cold but close to family. We can't wait!

Pictures found here - http://adamapalmer.com/

Daffodils at Gordon

2009-09-13T15:36:00.009+10:00

I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud
by William Wordsworth

I wandered lonely as a cloud,

That floats on high o'er vales and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd,

A host, of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

And twinkle on the milky way. . . . .

This is our daffodil patch at Gordon. We have 150 planted – one day there will be a crowd just as Wordsworth saw.

Love, Dad.

Enlistment Ceremony

2009-08-25T19:32:00.002+10:00

Forgot to add the photos of Robbies enlistment ceremony and the bus ride to the airport!

Recruit Robert Wolff

2009-08-25T09:52:00.004+10:00

This is a video that I made for Robbie who has left for HMAS Cerberus yesterday to eventually become a Clearance Diver! We have had very upset little children in our house who really miss their best friend, 'Uncle Robbie'. So this is a video to show some of things that Clearance Divers do and the things that Robbie will be doing.

To all of the mums:

2009-08-21T13:49:00.001+10:00

I Love Footy

2009-08-17T10:51:00.003+10:00

Just wanted to say that I love being an AFL fan, in particular a Collingwood Fan! Such a great game!

The Machine, by Michael Roberts, tells the inside story of the great Collingwood side of 1927-30.
A freak piece of play

Some critics pointed to the St Kilda match at the Junction Oval as the game in which Collingwood might be tested. The conditions were bleak and the ground was caked with mud. Almost 30,000 people turned out to watch a “gloriously sustained struggle on a horrible day”.

St Kilda led by five points at half-time, the Magpies by one point at the last change. Late in the match it appeared as if the home side would become the first to knock the Magpies off their perch in 1929. Then, just when all looked lost for the Pies, a freak piece of play made it seem as if fate was playing its part in the Collingwood streak.

Gordon Coventry, well held for most of the day, gathered a loose ball just before the final bell. Almost simultaneously he copped a bump from St Kilda’s full-back Ernie Loveless, and tried to kick the ball in the direction of goal. The bump “shook Coventry to his foundations”, while the ball miraculously made contact with the side of his left boot and trickled through for a goal, to give the Magpies the game by four points. Ever the gentleman, the self-effacing Coventry all but apologised to his opponent, saying, “It was one of the flukes of the game.”

In keeping with [club president Harry] Curtis’s pre-season pledge to aim for records, Gordon Coventry booted an individual record of 16 goals in a game against a hapless Hawthorn before a deliriously happy Victoria Park crowd. He bagged four goals in the first five minutes and an astounding eight in the first quarter, to set him up to break the decade-old record of 14 kicked by South Melbourne’s Harold Robertson. ‘Nuts’ broke the old mark in the last quarter and was then congratulated off the ground by friends and foes alike. Even the umpire shook Coventry’s hand. Another to shake his hand in the rooms was John Wren, the club’s occasional benefactor, who slipped a 50-pound note into Coventry’s enormous palm. That was a huge sum of money in those dark times.

The only fear for those within the club was that the team could “go stale” late in the season, as they had in the previous year.

There were, however, no signs of staleness when the club ended the regular season with an emphatic 56-point win over Melbourne in front of 41,316 fans. It was the first and only time a team has gone through a home-and-away season undefeated, and seemingly the perfect entrée into the finals.

Sorry Saints! Better Luck next time!

Mr. Romance

2009-08-10T11:03:00.009+10:00

Tim and I celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary on August 1st. It was a very memorable night. We got dressed up and went out sans kids which is always a treat. Tim had been shopping earlier in the day and carried a parcel on our way out. He wanted to wait to give it to me when the timing was just right. I am skilled in the art of sussing out what contents a package holds and ascertained that it was most definitely a book. But what book? I imagined a book of famous love poems or a book filled with the world's most romantic locations (I love travel books with beautiful pictures).

We pulled up to our favourite restaurant and Tim turned to me and said, "I think its time." He handed me my gift, I was giddy with excitement. I carefully opened the parcel and looked down to discover that yes it was a book...but not exactly the book I was expecting:

I was surprised to say the least. At this point many wives may have: a]exploded in a volcanic rage or b] fallen into a sullen stupor speaking only in grunts and sighs for the rest of the evening.

I did neither. Yes I was surprised, maybe even a little disappointed, but I know Tim well enough after 12 years to know that his heart was well-intentioned. That he truly thought this book would be something I would love.

I did have to laugh (and tried not to take it personal) when I read the subtitle: "Anyone Can Learn to Cook in 24 Hours" and also when I flipped through the book to find it peppered with real-life stories of no-hopers in the kitchen who had used this book and turned their lives around.

It turns out the book is fantastic! Filled with delicious and easy recipes. We have already tried 6 recipes from its pages this past week. . .actually 5 (one was so good we made it twice). Tim and I have both been cooking up a storm and it has been so much fun.

Throughout the week we have purchased new kitchen utensils and filled our pantry with new ingredients. We have even been inspired to start a herb garden (it gets expensive buying fresh herbs all the time). We have enjoyed spending time together curled up on the couch flipping through the pages deciding what we will try next.

If anyone is looking for romantic gift ideas talk to Tim he will definitely steer you in the right direction.

yearbookyourself.com

2009-07-30T21:58:00.005+10:00

found this absolutely funny website called yearbookyourself.com where you kinda photoshop yourself in these pre-made photo outlines. We all had a turn but Lucas just seemed to have the right face shape for this. So we just wanted to share the photos... especially the one that looks like TIM! we will let you be the judge of which one.. haha!

Brady

2009-07-29T11:46:00.008+10:00

After Spencer was born, Tim and I decided that our family was complete. A family with three children made sense. No need to upgrade our car or our house. We were devastated when I discovered that I was expecting baby #4. I know this may sound crazy but we felt sorry for our fertile selves. Brady Malia arrived on July 25th 2007. Its as if she knew she would have to win our hearts and she set about doing so with loving determination. It worked! We all adore her and can't imagine our family without this little cherub.

A MESSAGE FROM DAD

2009-07-16T12:28:00.008+10:00

Last Sunday was Allegra's blessing. Mum, Maggie and I, Steven, Laura, Chloe and Emily, Heidi, Paul and Lola all drove up on Saturday and stayed overnight with Josh, Debora and family. Everyone fit so well into the house that it didn’t seem crowded at all. Sunday morning Joe, Ali, Reef and Lizzie drove over from Albury to Finley Chapel for the blessing. The day was sunny, calm and cool; it hardly seemed like winter at all. Josh blessed Allegra with the help of Joe, me, Richard Butler and some of the local priesthood while Debora was asked to bear her testimony which she did very sincerely and well. Allegra was very calm and didn't say anything at all. As you can see from the photos she is short, round and squishy. *

After church everyone including just about the whole Finley Branch came back to the “Wolff’s Den” for a spit roast barbecue. There was plenty of food and it was a just a great Finley feed and get together. Finley branch has always been noted for it’s hospitality and friendliness. The last person left as the sunset. Finley branch has 70+ active members and they include lawyers, wheat and sheep farmers, dairy farmers, clerks, retired people, people who fled the big city, one lady is a shire councilor. There is even an itinerant writer, who has a beard, a masters in lit. ,few possessions, rides around on a push bike with handle bars and lives alone; a bit like Henry Thoreau on Walden Pond.

Most of the family left on Sunday afternoon. Steven was feeling sick and left early; next morning the doctor told him he has swine flu.

Mum, Maggie and I stayed on Sunday night because now that I am retired I don’t have such a strict schedule. Yes! I finally applied to the superannuation fund for my life savings and we are going to move to Gordon to live in a caravan and shed (not yet built) while our dream country farmhouse is built.

Note: my life savings will last 12 months if we are careful. For the past 3 months since I stopped work I have been busy painting and fixing the house in Seaford to make it pleasant and comfortable to live in. You might appreciate that next week the roof will be insulated.

I have planted a veggie garden and built a chook house that now is home to six brown hens. I spent a lot of time standing at the chook pen studying chook family psychology – perhaps I will write a book about them in my retirement. All this is a preparation for our move to Gordon. We are looking at planting a berry orchard because the climate and soil seems to be suitable.

I must add a few words in support of the prophets’ exhortations over the years, for us to put away 12 months supply of food and other daily consumables. In the last two years Mum has been actively buying wheat, rice, spelt, all sorts of other dried foods, cans of tomatoes and fruit, beans, dates, nuts, toothpaste, toilet rolls, toothpaste, soaps, cleaning chemicals and I have been grinding flour and making bread etc. Since I was made redundant we have been drawing heavily on these supplies and yet there seems hardly any reduction in our stores. We have consequently been able to live very cheaply and we have no concerns about shortage of food – we could last for many months more on the basic foods in our store.

To prepare for retirement I have been able to get a casual teaching position, for one day a week, with the Box Hill Institute. I am going to night school to study a Cert IV subject “Training and Assessment” which is the minimum qualification required. Next Wednesday is my first teaching day and I have to tell you I am scared – but I have to try it.

Love,
Dad

*More pictures are on their way-check back later

MY FIRST SNOW TRIP

2009-07-12T21:08:00.021+10:00

Mummy, Daddy and Aunty Lizzie took me up to the snow for the first time ever in my whole entire life. It was a whole lot of fun. We got to ride in a snow cat (that's a kind of a big van on tracks instead of wheels) up to our Lodge. We stayed at the Nelse Lodge and it was really nice. Everyone was so friendly and you can ski right from the front door, down to the chair lift that takes you up to the top of the mountain. That's where all the big people went everyday. I had to stay in the lodge most of the time because I still had a little bit of a cold from the week before but everyday I went for a walk with either Mummy or Daddy down to Falls Express to get lunch. My Daddy was snowboarding and he's getting really good. He can almost make it down to the bottom without falling over and Mummy and Aunty Lizzie must be good at skiing by now because the man who runs the park gave them free private lessons...and free beanies but they felt bad and went back and paid for those.

Mummy hurt her knee skiing so I got to spend the next whole day with her. She's ok now but it meant she couldn't ski the rest of the trip. She felt a bit sad but says that we live so close we'll just go back another day. The Lodge also had a heated pool and a hot spa and Mummy and Aunty Lizzie made the most of that on our last night. The food at the lodge was excellent...of course I wouldn't really know because I still only drink milk but that's what the big people kept saying.

So that was my first trip to the snow. I had a great time and can't wait 'til I get a bit bigger and can be one of those Milo kids skiin' around up on the mountain. I wish everyone could've been there. It was really great fun. Hopefully one day we can all go up there together and have even more fun!

Schnappi Reef

2009-07-05T00:46:00.004+10:00

First Friday Interview: Josh

2009-07-03T08:23:00.007+10:00

What is your favourite colour?

Although unoriginal, blue is and has always been my favourite colour.

What is your favourite city?

Being the least travelled member of the family, (MTC in Hamilton, NZ doesn't count) my world view is very limited. However, without hesitation, my favourite city in Australia is Fremantle, WA. There is something about the contrast of the bright blue Indian Ocean with the earthy sandstone buildings, shady parks, and ocean breeze every afternoon that soothe and relax me. Because of the glitz and lights of the Gold Coast (and of course the great beaches and perfect climate) I remain proudly fond of my former home city despite its undeserved reputation.

What is your favourite thing to cook?

I don't cook nor do I enjoy cooking; why should I, Debora is a great cook and she loves to cook. I admit to being a fan of Masterchef and while my cooking skills have not increased, I am great at critiquing the contestants' dishes.

What beauty product can you not live without?

Minoxidil (hair loss treatment) I choose to believe it works.

What is your favourite restaurant?

The breakfast buffet at Sheraton Mirage on the Gold Coast.

What is one thing you can't help but splurge on?

I don't have any discretionary money to splurge. I do, however, splurge on Debora's desserts and puddings.

What is your favourite word?

At the moment, Allegra.

What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?

Kick the footy with Isaak and Sariah in the backyard, chop wood for the fireplace, watch Collingwood on T.V. and then maybe a DVD with Debora at night curled up in front of the fire. That pretty much describes my typical weekend.

What TV show makes you the happiest?

Seinfeld still makes me laugh.

What is your favourite sport to participate in?

Beach Cricket.

What is one trend that totally victimized you?

The whole decade of 2000, with the move to tight fitted jeans and shirts does not agree with my body shape. I still dress the same as I did in the 90's, thankfully I wear suits 6 out of 7 days of the week.

If you could trade lives with anyone for a day, who would you choose?

Robbie. He lives such a carefree and stress-free life; go to the gym, go to the beach, spur of the moment decision to go to Japan, and not responsible for or answerable to anyone.

What is your favourite comfort food?

Pudding.

What celebrity do you most resemble?

It has been a natural digression over the last decade or so. Before the mission, some people would tell me that I looked a bit like Brad Pitt. Later I was told I looked a bit like Shane Warne. The latest: Ethan Suplee. You know him as the overweight dimwitted brother on My Name is Earl. Thanks to Tim and Jill for that one!

What three things are your most treasured (material) possessions?

Lord of the Rings DVDs 1, 2, & 3 extended versions with additional bonus material.

What three things are your most treasured (non-material) possessions?

Of course, Isaak, Sariah, and Allegra.

What do you usually have for breakfast?

Grapefruit juice and toast. Often on saturday Debora whips up a cooked breakfast.

What is your favourite childhood memory?

Freedom at Dalmeny, the challenge of walking to Potato Point, scrounging $2 to buy chips with chicken salt from the chicken shop across the road at Dalmeny.

Thanks Josh!!

Post-script: We do not believe that Josh bears any resemblance to "Randy Hickey" this comment was taken completely out of context. On the scale of Brad Pitt being 10 and Earl's brother being 1 he is definitely a 9.

'One of the Ninety and Nine'

2009-07-02T20:26:00.002+10:00

We all know the parable about the ninety and nine and the one lost sheep. What if your not that lost sheep?... What if your just "one of the ninety and nine"? You attend church every week, fulfill your callings and responsibilities. Of course your not perfect but your doing fine! This is a great song by Michael McLean. Didn't know how to download it from the internet so I just pasted the link for you to go to the video...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEy6jgfCSgI

THE MEGA POOP!

2009-06-29T10:00:00.003+10:00

Anyone that has kids will know the one I’m talking about. It’s the one that no matter how much you’ve prepared yourself it leaves you gasping for clean air. Your nostrils automatically close off and you are left wondering, out aloud, how something like that could come out of such a cute little kid? It’s the one that no matter how many baby wipes you had ready to go, it wasn’t enough and you find yourself reaching for more. It’s the one that instead of wiping you find yourself scooping and thinking that using a cement trowel would be easier. It's the one that managed to work its way into every tiny little crack and crevasse, every little nook and cranny and just when you think you're done...THERE'S MORE! It’s the one that you think to yourself "I don't wanna touch this anymore than I have to" and instead of folding the edges over, like you should, you place it carefully inside the plastic nappy bag and tie it up. It's the one that no matter how careful you were, you still manage to get it on the outside of that nappy bag and now have to double-bag it. And the whole time your little boy just stares up at you, laughing, as if he knew what was coming and thinks it’s the funniest thing he’s seen all day!

SBLT Lucas Wolff

2009-06-26T13:38:00.002+10:00

Although Lucas has been in the Navy for 6 months, today was the day that he looked the part! With his winter uniform (just one of a many uniforms) he was looking very smart! Airi and Grace thought that Dad looked very funny and couldn't stop giggling. The new rule that they made up was that every time dad is in uniform he will be addressed as "Sir". So it has been, "you look very nice, Sir... can I go and play, Sir"
Off to training exercise tomorrow it will be Lucas's first official outing as a Naval Officer. Hooray!

Dunk Is. - Beautiful one day, perfect the next

2009-06-18T20:34:00.023+10:00

I once read an article written by a marketing guru, who criticised the Queensland Tourism Authority for discarding their slogan "Beautiful one day, perfect the next" and replacing it with "Where else but Queensland?" Last week, both slogans were appropriate, Queensland put on a show.

After finishing my Masters last year, I have felt a little flat. Two years with no break, and the stress of combining study with family,managing finances, church calling etc, culminated in a mid- week decision, "I need a time out, I need a holiday!"

As fast as a whippet, Jill had us booked. I had a week off and we were headed to Dunk Island.

Not the most exclusive island in the chain, but from what we read, the most family friendly. This turned out be fantastically true.

We left early Monday morning, after getting the house ready for any inspections for potential buyers while we were away. A logistical challenge, but we have done this so many times over the last 12 months, with the motivation of a 12 o'clock booking on the Mission Beach to Dunk Island Ferry, it went like clockwork.

A leisurely 2 hour drive on the Great Green Way, was a great way to start the holiday. 28 degrees and no hotter, a slight breeze and open road.

We arrived in good time,and found the ferry departure. With another 40 minutes to go, we cruised around Mission Beach and drove up to a resort we had stayed at once at South Mission Beach. A special surprise awaited, our first sightings of Cassowaries in the wild.

A Dad, and his 3 little chicks (that makes them sound small, they each stood about 4ft tall. ) Jill tells me she learnt that the Male Cassowary are the best dads in the world. The Mum takes off never to be seen again, after she lays the eggs, and Dad incubates the eggs and after they hatch, raises the chicks all by himself. His was a pretty calm, sort of a fellow, came right up to the car and banged it with his beak, just like what you see on African safari shows, except they are elephants. I was slightly concerned that at any minute he would tear our bowels out with his talons, as we have been warned many times, don't get too close. One of our favourite road signs, that you'll see up here, is a yellow triangle with a car and a cassowary head on, with the car banged up, and if taken to scale, you may expect to see a 2o foot cassowary. Jill shrieked with excitement, as if she had just arrived in Australia 2 days ago, and took a few pics. The drive back to the ferry, we crossed a small creek, with a recent crocodile sighting sign. We stopped and tried to see one but nothing there, that we could see,but that is the crocodiles' strategy, camouflage. A guy from Melbourne, I met while watching the soccer at the Island Bar, said he and his family were taking a swim on Mission Beach while waiting for the ferry, and a local said to them "I wouldn't swim in there if I was you mate, there's a 3.7m saltie that lives off the beach up near the estuary up there". He didn't swim for his whole trip, but apparently they don't go out to the island. I wasn't convinced.

The Ferry ride was all part of the fun, we had to catch it from the beach, not a jetty. So we waded through the waves up to the boat, they carried our luggage this way, Kawehi was carried as if she was luggage by the crew too. The boat started its engine, raised its bow and off it sped, the island in the foreground getting closer and closer, water crystal calm, on the gold coast a surfer would call it glassy, but it really sparkled.

The kids loved the ferry, it drove up the beach and got out just as we had embarked, through the waves, greeted by island staff in Aloha shirts "Welcome to Dunk Island" They gave us the welcome spiel, hotel, food, room, activities, I was reassured that there would be no "crocodiles", although he was new and had just come from working up on Lizard Island resort, where they unexpectedly spotted and caught two crocodiles, sunning themselves off the beach, but he said" but that's more North". The toads are travelling South, surely the crocs are too.

We were led through the new bar and dining area (rebuilt after cyclone Larry devastated the island in 2006) out to the view you see on all the brochures. I was pleasantly surprised that it looked exactly as the picture only better. The big pool with the Ulysses Blue Butterfly in tiles on the pool floor;the same pool that Spencer a few days later, dropped his billabong boardies arched his back and demonstrated a perfect arc as he peed into the lovely pool, in front of all the resort guests. I asked him later, what the people thought, he said"everyone was laughing at me" he loves to entertain. Jill was horrified.

Our apartment was a beachfront room, nice and modern, and literally 10 metres to the sand, another 10 metres to the water. We all wandered back along the sand to the cafe at the pool for lunch, Asian noodle 2 course menu, order away its all part of the package. We sat together by the sand and an umbrella and admired the view, blue green, clear calm waters, gentle waves lapping, blue skies, still, green Mount Kootaloo to the right, mission beach and ocean to to the left, island out in front 200m, and the rigid blue haze of the east coast of Australia, in the distant background, Yachts sailing, boats speeding, kayaks floating, people fishing and walking past with huge fish held hanging in hand, taking them to the chef, to cook for dinner later that evening.We couldn't believe that only a few hours before we were scrubbing windows, vacuuming floors. We literally have some of the best of Australia on our doorstep.

Jill took Brady for a nap, while Kawehi, Ollie, Spencer and I took the 500m hike to Muggy Muggy Beach, good for snorkeling, the reef is right off the beach. Deserted, calm, dark boulders either side, the kids felt like they were pirates, robinson crusoe, smith family robinson, they ran, jumped off rocks, swam in the water, threw rocks, found crabs and pools of water.

We decided to hike to the other side of the resort, visited the jetty cafe, and ordered drinks for all the kids, they loved the concept of ordering drinks and not handing over money. They could get used to this. We walked to the back beach after the kids jumped off the jetty, into the water if I didn't stop them,But onto the sand. I realised Spencer has no concept of height as he launched himself off two feet into the air and onto the sand below from 4 times his height. I jumped down, expecting him to be hurt or shocked, but neither"lets do it again" He's a crazy little fella.

The back beach is where we discovered one of the many joys of the week, 14 foot catamarans, white blue and green, with Dunk Island written on them, the kids loved it, and Jill too. I can't believe she trusted me out in the waters half way between Bedarra Island and Dunk.

The first trip we did, it seemed as soon as it was our turn, the wind died down. I thought it was just my hopeless skills, which I was pretty certain was the case after 20 mins and moving maybe 10 m, with the aid of the paddle. The kids were bored and wanted to get off. But after we finished we were told the wind had dropped to 5 knots and we were in a somewhat protected cove. But we were back the next few days. Ollie, Spencer and I finally got it out at 18 knots and did a bit of tacking, if thats what its called, anyway we caught the wind, and that little catamaran sped. A real treat, off to our right, we saw something blow up out of the water, it looked like a little whale at first, but as we caught his distinctive face, it was a Dugong, the chances of that, it was headed straight for us, we only saw it for about 10 secs, and then we lost it, but that was just fantastic.

The first night we were off to dinner, 3 course menu, the kids again able to order whatever they liked, and when asked later about their favourite part of the trip, "the restaurant." I read an article by a travel writer who had visited Dunk, and was surprised at the comments he got when he got back from his 3 week trip, instead of "you look tanned, great, rested, fresh" it was "mate are you okay, you've put on a few kilos" We felt the same way, so much food, the buffet breakfast each morning was great, one night we had a seafood buffet for dinner, but it was the apex of the food curve, the point we realised we couldn't sustain this kind of eating, that night I had half a plate full and a few desserts, what a waste, there was so much great food, I just couldn't do it any longer. We came down after that and figured out a way to balance it out. But we kept active to assist with digestion. Jill was hiking Mt Kootaloo every morning getting up at 6 am, taking a good 90 minutes to the top and back, with great views as an additional reward. The third day, Kawehi, Ollie and I did the same hike, but we added the circle island hike, an 8km hike all up, Kawehi and Ollie did it all amazingly well, and we even ran for almost half of it. We learnt that, an eccentric Englishman, was working at the newspaper in Townsville, was told by his doctor that he had 6 months to live, he was so stressed and overworked. So, he quit his job and moved with his wife to Dunk Island, settled, built a shack and lived for the next 26 years. He wrote a book while he was on the Island, called "Confessions of a Beachcomber" which is apparently a classic in the world of wanna-be island castaways and nature lovers. Everything on Dunk Island and Mission beach is called Banfield something, drive, parade, shopping centre, all named after him. Also the top of Mount Kootaloo held a communications tower during the war, which we saw the rusted ruins of on our hike. It sent via morse code, positional sightings of Japanese submarines and other fleet, along the coast of Northern Australia. The soldiers hiked up to the top and camped, on a 24 hr watch, where they would switch and be relieved by their mates who would be at base camp, swimming and fishing. If you had to go to war, this is surely where you would want to be posted.

We swam everyday, the beaches so nice that it seemed a shame to even want to swim in the pool. At low tide we could walk out a good 100 m, with all the kids including Spencer, and they were jumping, flopping backwards, diving, out in the middle of the bay, soft sand under their feet.

We played racquetball most nights, that was so great, we thought, "that's what we need in our home, a squash/racquetball court". We gave each kid a racquet and a ball, including Brady, shut the door, and they would have gone on for a good 4 hours if we hadn't stopped them, balls and racquets flying everywhere. Ollie had figured out that you just drop the ball and then whack it. Spencer, he would throw the ball, then chase it down like a heat seeking missile, throw racquet and body at the ball on the ground, in an attempt to send that ball as far and as hard as he could.

Dinner we booked in each night at 6pm, so we had perfect sunset views across the water, purples and oranges and fading blues. It was more than perfect.

One night Jill and I, went to the Bingo at the bar, it was very family oriented, the kids were baby sat, we thought surely we would win something but no. The last game was, you kept standing if none of your numbers are called out. We thought, well surely this is our game based on the the previous rounds. Jill was in the final two still standing, the prize a free cocktail from the bar. Not much use to us, we'd go virgin, but she was still determined to win something, even if we had to give it away. She lost.

But other than that, for the whole trip, we felt lucky, really grateful for such beautiful surroundings, there's so much to do, if you get out and do it in Cairns and surrounds.

The day we were to leave, it was over cast and raining, as if the island that the kids fell in love with was sad to see them go. We finished with hot chocolate and soft drinks at the jetty cafe as we waited for the water-taxi, this time it was rougher and the ferry jumped and rocked side to side, the waves crashing us onto the beach, the boat backing in reverse. Car keys delivered at the beach, luggage, delivered into the car, and we were driving away almost 60 secs after getting off the boat. Simple service, done well. What a great trip that was.

We took the long way home, and arrived home with 5 mins to spare before we were called saying there was a showing for our home scheduled in 5 mins. We hoofed it, packed the car again with everything we had just taken out, opened the windows, curtains, turned on the fans, cleaned the floors and waved hello to the new owner (we hoped) of our house as we drove out through the gate. We just made it. We accepted his offer the next morning. Celebrations for a house sold, a fantastic trip and memories for our family from the "Isle of Peace and Plenty" Dunk Island, which was beautiful the first day, and perfect every one after that. Where else but Queensland? Come on up for a holiday, we'll see you soon!

*photos all found online-our photos may be coming soon.

Meet Allegra

2009-06-15T11:54:00.004+10:00

RESPONSE to Ali's call to blog

Things & people who are cool

Tim, Jill, Ali, Jo, Elsi and Dad for blogging.

Pictures of Reef: the coolest and funniest 5 month old baby I know.

Robbie (aka the fob), soon to be navy clearance diver and the maker and dismantler of bombs, mines and wielder of deadly firearms in shark infested waters.

Allegra Ana Wolff. No further explanaation required (see above photos).

Debora for pushing Allegra out and remaining remarkably composed, in control and upbeat throughout a long and trying labour.

Mum & Dad for turning another year older. Happy birthday to you both.

Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingi, for providing relaxation and calm during a stressful couple of weeks. I have been telling everyone I know about his music for over a year now. Go and listen if you haven't already done so.

Those who aspire to be cool

Me, for blogging for the very first time despite my aversion to all forms of modern communication.

Winter ski-trip, only cool people go on skiing holidays.

Those who are uncool

All the non-bloggers in the family, named and shamed from the top:

Mum, Kersty, Ian, Joanne, Peter, Steven, Farad, Heidi, Paul, Elizabeth, Robbie, Lucas (Elsi's posts don't count for you Luke). One post will move you to the level of aspiring cool person.

Report on Allegra's birth

First, thanks to those who called, visited, or left a message to congratulate Debora, the kids and I. To those who haven't yet contacted, I accept your kind thoughts and good intentions to do the same. Apathy and procrastination are traits common to many in the family.

Allegra was born into this world at 2:42 am, 3 June 2009 at the Deniliquin Hospital. She weighed at birth a healthy 8lb 11' after a labour that seemed to last for days. Debora and Allegra survived, albeit both were a little banged up. You can see the bruises and swelling on Allegra's face in the above photos. Debora was incredible, so focused and in control. At times it was she who was reminding me to breathe and relax. Issak and Sariah are thrilled to have a baby sister. Sariah dusted off her baby born doll in the weeks leading up to Allegra's birth and she (the doll) had to come everywhere with us. I suspect Sariah was auditioning her capabilities as big sister. She now realises that real babies aren't as fun as baby borns. On Debora and Allegra's first night home, Sariah, tired from Allegra crying all night, called out to Debora "Mum, can you do something about her, I can't sleep". We wish it was that easy.

Josh

FIRST FRIDAY INTERVIEW: June

2009-06-03T12:04:00.008+10:00

Caroline

Caroline and Kiann on a recent holiday in the French Riviera

What is your favourite colour?

yellow

(first Wolff not to say "blue")

What is your favourite city?

Rome or Paris, not sure.

What is your favourite thing to cook?
Eggs, they are quick, simple, and tasty.

What beauty product can you not live without?

Moisturiser

What is your favourite restaurant?

ASK, it is a chain here in the U.K. you can always find one in whatever city you are in and it never disappoints.

What is one thing you can't help but splurge on?

Shoes

What is your favourite word?

Mum Mum (Kiann has just learned to say it).

What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?

Go visit a little village and if it is cold go have a hot chocolate.

What T.V. show makes you the happiest?

Well, I watch Eastenders a lot but I'm not so sure it makes me happy.

What is your favourite sport to participate in?

Walking (although it is kind of solo).

What is one trend that totally victimized you?

Brogue shoes with white massive sock pushed down and a scrunchie for the hair on my wrist.

If you could trade lives with anyone for a day, who would you choose?
Sleeping Beauty. I could sleep for a hundred years.

What is your favourite comfort food?

Dark chocolate.

What celebrity do you most resemble?

Years ago, people used to say I looked like a British star named Tamzin Outhwaite, you'll have to google her to know who that is.

What three things are your most treasured (material) possessions?
My hot never-ending power shower, my little car, and my passport.

What three things are your most treasured (non-material) possessions?

Kiann. . . .Nicholas. . . .Fesharaki!

What do you usually have for breakfast?
A banana and marmite on toast.

What is your favourite childhood memory?

Waking up Christmas morning and seeing all of the presents that Santa had delivered under the tree. It was the year in Poole Street when G & G and G Wolff and Carol and Gerry were there. Another one is swimming in Albury pool in the holidays and after school.

Thanks Caroline!

COME TO THE SNOW!!

2009-06-02T15:06:00.004+10:00

Has anyone noticed that the viewer numbers keep creeping up yet nobody posts? Except Tim, Jill, Joe, and I?...and Luke and Elsi, sometimes. We quit after awhile cos we started feeling like nerds until it occurred to us that obviously we're the only cool ones with stuff going on in our lives..and sheesh, we live in Albury.

Ok, so clearly we are not inferring anything about you because we would only want to invite cool people to the snow with us. Thats right this year we decided to be all schmancy pants and go to the snow.

I've been dreaming about it since the Babysitters Club went to Vermont on a ski trip as babysitters, and Joe's keen cos he's, well, cool. And if anyone's noticed cool people snowboard!!!

We are planning on at least a few days during one of the school holidays and where is totally up to you. Let us know and we'll find a good deal...(our wallets aren't quite as large as our dreams)...and for those wishing to look the part without the price Aldi still has some cheap ski suits left instore. Who needs Burton when you've got Crane?

See you in the soft powder!

First Friday Interview

2009-04-30T22:11:00.014+10:00

TIMOTHY

Tim giving Brady her first bath

What is your favourite colour?
Blue, it brings out my eyes. Blue sky and blue ocean

What is your favourite city?

Honolulu/Waikiki

What is your favourite thing to cook?
Toast
What beauty product can you not live without?

Everything, I have even learned how to live without hair products
What is your favourite restaurant?

In Cairns; Corea Corea, Cafe 12, and Thai and Laos @Edge Hill

What is one thing you can't help but splurge on?
Macadamia/white choc chip cookies, blue cheese, and shoes
What is your favourite word?
Sure, why not! That's a phrase I know. Maybe, lovely
What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?

Go for a run, go for a swim, go out to lunch, and watch the footy
What t.v. show makes you the happiest?
AFL live when Collingwood is playing, The Office, Flight of the Conchords and Little Britain
What is your favourite sport to participate in?
Air Hockey
What is one trend that totally victimized you?

The undercut hairstyle
If you could trade lives with anyone for a day who would you choose?
I used to think I would like to trade with one of the Royal Family when I was little. I would like to be able to trade people out of my life (noone from the family of course).
What is your favourite comfort food?
Burger and fries (while reading the newspaper).
What celebrity do you most resemble?
People used to say Matthew McConaughey, but they also used to say Joseph Smith
What three things are your most treasured (material) possessions?
I am happy I have a mower to mow my own lawns, my Leki nordic walking poles, and I like my new Lacoste shoes for work
What three things are your most treasured (non-material) possessions?

My family, my education, and my testimony
What is your favourite childhood memory?
Too many, but being carefree on the beach for family holidays was great. Also at Gisborne Primary School, throwing pine cones from one fallen pine tree at other children who were hiding behind another fallen pine tree throwing pine cones at me. Free food at church activities or at Dad's work parties.

Thanks Tim!

Roly Poly Reef

2009-04-19T16:35:00.005+10:00

I rolled over for the first time yesterday but only Daddy saw. Mummy was busy in a training meeting at church so I decided that I would do one, special, at home just for her!

Footy Season has Begun

2009-04-19T00:11:00.002+10:00

First Friday Interview:

2009-04-04T21:43:00.006+10:00

STEVEN:

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLOUR?
Blue

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE CITY?

Melbourne when I'm home. Then its a toss up between London and Vienna.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO COOK?

Salad things. But not the iceberg, tomato, and cucumber kind.

WHAT BEAUTY PRODUCT CAN YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?

Soap

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANT?

Mecca Bah in Docklands.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU CAN'T HELP BUT SPLURGE ON?

Music. I keep buying it but I think I'm running out of music to buy.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WORD?

Shrub

WHAT IS ONE TREND THAT TOTALLY VICTIMIZED YOU?

Tight pants.

IF YOU COULD TRADE LIVES WITH ANYONE FOR A DAY WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE?

An eagle.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COMFORT FOOD?

Maltesers. Although I have gone off them a bit lately. I like the English ones better.

WHAT CELEBRITY DO YOU MOST RESEMBLE?

Some people have independently said I look a bit like Ben Affleck. This is not my opinion.

WHAT THREE THINGS ARE YOUR MOST TREASURED (MATERIAL) POSSESSIONS?

My ipod, my bed, and my piano.

WHAT THREE THINGS ARE YOUR MOST TREASURED (NON-MATERIAL) POSSESSIONS?

Laura, Chloe, and Emily.

WHAT DO YOU USUALLY HAVE FOR BREAKFAST?

Coffee and toast.

WHAT TV SHOW MAKES YOU HAPPIEST?

Scrubs

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO ON THE WEEKEND?

Go to new places with the kidlets. Start with a walk in the morning to the bakery.

THANK YOU STEVEN!

Are you a connoisseur of fine weather?

2009-03-29T19:47:00.007+10:00

If so. . . . for the next few months Cairns is the place to be. I am officially inviting all relatives for a holiday up north. I am finished complaining about heat, humidity, and torrential rain because right now this place is perfection. If you can put up with slightly cramped quarters and noisy (bordering on annoying, oops I mean adorable) children book a cheap flight(s) and come on up and enjoy.

Can't wait for Easter? Apparently Coles feels the same way.

2009-03-23T17:01:00.011+10:00

The Easter chocolate has been in the shops for so long now that today I noticed it is already being reduced, almost 3 weeks before Easter!

I told the kids that they will STILL need to wait for the actual Easter holiday before they consume ANY Easter treats, whatsoever! I don't care HOW yummy hot-cross buns are!

re: Dalmeny Movie!

2009-03-19T22:16:00.002+10:00

If anyone wants a copy of the movie on DVD just let me know and I will post one to you! Love Elsi

Dalmeny Movie!

2009-03-19T20:56:00.003+10:00

Would like to have had a bit more time but here it is... What a great time we had! See you all next time at Dalmeny (end of the year so start preparing)

Wynken, Blynken and Nod

2009-03-18T21:06:00.009+10:00

New babies sleep a lot. Don't they? 16 - 17 hours out of 24 right? Or roughly the equivalent of 2 hours out of every 3. Right after dinner time, play time and a little bit of cuddle time or as one "expert" labels it E.A.S.Y. Eat, Activity, Sleep and a little bit of time for You. (SNORT).

So far in the last week Reef has stayed awake from 10 till 4. He's been rocked and shushed in the basinette, in mummy's arms, in daddy's arms, sung to, and bounced. He's listened to 'soothing' music from classical, jazz to new age synthesized to the "sounds of rain" but to no avail because being free spirited and stubborn since in utero he won't sleep until he is ready. The following night he slept nowhere but on mummys chest (and she was very tired by the end of it). And then tonight he went down without complaint, wrapped up, plonked in the bed wide awake and asleep in 10minutes without a peep of sound.

And lets not get started on the day time naps. Do they even exist for longer than 20minutes? Who said parents got to catch up on sleep during the day while their child naps? Seriously, who are these people?

New parents brag about how well their child sleeps like its a badge of honour and good parenting.

Smug new parent: "My four week old baby slept from seven to seven last night. A whole twelve hours!"

Me (a little envious): "WOW. How'd you do that?" (like they did anything).

Smug new parent: "Oh he's such a good little baby and he loves the cot we bought and the new monitor that's remote controlled and plays music and doubles as a night light"....(also insert equivalent for smug parent with schedule or smug parent who demand feeds).

Joe and I have had some thoughts on this and we've come to realise that parents who think they've trained their six week and under babies to sleep through are full a load of rot. It can't be a sign of good parenting, a smart baby or even good luck, simply because a baby is designed to wake up when it's hungry or cold or hot or unable to breathe. Can you imagine poor little Reef all cold in bed and not waking to tell me? Don't you hate those nights? I certainly would want him to wake and am beginning to be glad that he has such a finely tuned survival instinct.... which must be why god created babies with a shortened sleep cycle most of which is active sleep (filled with grunts, squeeks, sighs, sleep smiles, sucking noises and flailing arms if they manage to work free and the ability to wake up at the drop of a pin).

Like all mothers at mother/baby club I'm convinced my baby is the cutest in the room. I know he is the most alert. While they sleep like slugs he's awake and usually crying very awake-like (i.e shrilly not quiet and grizzly) and sometimes he's playing. If he's awake more often, he must see and know more about the world. That must also make him the smartest baby in the room. Did you know that a little persons brain does most of its growing, 90%, in the first 2 years of life and, while deep sleep is necessary, its the active 'awake' part that cements the things learnt during the day? How smart (or healthy) can a baby be who sleeps deep?

On top of that, while a formula fed baby might have a full belly for a while, the digestive system of a breastfed newborn takes no longer than 90minutes to digest all its food. And as a little person needs its food to grow into a big person how can night time feeds be bad baby or bad parenting? Why do we spend so much energy, time and even money trying to get our babies to sleep longer through the night? Is that bad parenting?

So the next time that conversation comes up again it might go something like this -

Delusional new parent: "My baby has slept through the night from birth."

Me (a little smug): "Really? Reef wakes up several times a night. He's such a smart little baby. I feed him, change him, and occasionally rock him when his houdini brilliance has worked body parts free while sleeping. He sings and sighs through the night. I just know he'll be a great musician. Sometimes he chatters too and all that night-time talking and thinking so wears his little brain out he actually wakes just to tell me about it. His appetite is great, he'll be big and strong, and there is nothing sweeter than his 4am feed when his big eyes stare up at me though the dark and upon finishing his snack rolls over flat, kicks his feet and grins his peter pan grin, ready to play.

Aren't kids sweet?

2009-03-18T18:08:00.011+10:00

Today Ollie was playing quietly on our driveway lining up leaves, rocks, and flowers. As I walked by he looked up and in the sweetest voice said, "Mummy, when I grow up I want to be a doctor." I was delighted and said, "that would be great Ollie!" With a confused look on his face, he said, "not a doctor who helps people, a naughty doctor who makes potions to stop his enemies."

I decided to be supportive, I am sure even a naughty doctor requires more education and receives a better wage than the Incredible Hulk, his other career ambition. "That sounds like it would be a lot of fun!" I said enthusiastically. He looked at me with a satisfied smile and continued plotting.

Tim- Halloween 2008 (maybe Ollie's inspiration?)

No teeth? No problem, all welcome!!

2009-03-13T21:13:00.002+10:00

Calling all Collingwood fans. . .

As part of Tim's 35th birthday package (which also included sizeable portions of lasagne and carrot cake) he is flying down to Melbourne to see Collingwood take on Adelaide on March 28th. Anyone in the vicinity is invited to join him.

Sexy People

2009-03-09T10:25:00.005+10:00

Feel like cracking up?

Check out this blog:

http://www.sexypeople-blog.com/

I am sure we all have a few that we could add to her collection. If so, feel free to post them on Wolff 'n' Stuff.

yep...I'm cool

2009-03-07T09:59:00.002+10:00

ok now I am excited ,yeahhh I did it.But you'll just have to wait for anything signifigant,now I'm knackered.To much excitement for one day.

Better late than never

2009-03-07T09:50:00.002+10:00

I think this time I really have worked this out.But not before I accidently created my own blog.It tells me I have one following,me!I am guessing that is how it will stay.Anyway this will be brief until I am sure that I have managed to post anything at all for wolff n stuff.I was feeling very uncool not knowing how to sign up and contribute.I feel like I have stepped into an elitest club...if this actually makes it to the blog site .well before I get to excited ,let me click and see what happens!

First Friday Interview

2009-03-05T14:08:00.000+10:00

Something new has arrived at Wolff 'n' Stuff. The first friday of each month will feature a family member interview. . . . .and the first subject is . . .drumroll please. . . JOANNE!

What is your favourite colour?
Blue.

What is your favourite city?

Have to say Paris. I wish that I could go back in time and spend a year or two there as a single twenty something.

What is your favourite thing to cook?
Any braised dish in my le Creuset cook pot. Yum and fun. It makes me feel like I am in Paris.

What beauty product can you not live without?

Mascara. My eyes look naked without it.

What is your favourite restaurant?

Currently it is the local Thai restaurant called Thai Splendid. The food is amazing. Always fresh and exploding with flavour?

What is one thing you can't help but splurge on?

Chocolate. Not a $ splurge, just in the calorie department.

What is your favourite word?

At the moment: Holy Crapperoly. Should I be looking for something more eloquent? Wish that I could come up with an unusual, exotic word from a dictionary out of the top of my head. But I would have to look one up and that would be cheating.

What movie can you recite by heart?

Can't quote many, but can quote Miss Congeniality.

What is your favourite thing to do on the weekend?

Hmmm, hard to choose one thing. Maybe, watching a movie.

Which T.V. show makes you happiest?

Used to love curling up to watch the British t.v. series Coldfeet. I wish they would do more episodes.

What is your favourite beverage?

Favourite beverage was a cold diet coke. But I've given it up. Now I'm boring.

What is one trend that totally victimized you?

The old spiral perm!! The bigger the better!

If you could trade lives with anyone for a day, who would you choose?

Diane Lane, in Under the Tuscan Sun. But only for her house and lifestyle.

What is your favourite comfort food?

Favourite comfort food? Thats easy. Chocolate!

What celebrity do you most resemble?

Well I've been told over the years Helen Hunt, a little bit of Jodie Foster and the blonde girl from Hey Dad. So you can be the judge of that.

Diamonds or Pearls?
Both?!

What was the last film you saw at the cinema?

Last saw Bride Wars with Maddie and before that Seven Pounds. That was a brilliant movie. I recommend it.

What do you usually have for breakfast?

Special K with light milk or raw muesli.

Thanks Joanne, you have always been a fantastic big (but little) sister!!

2009-02-26T16:31:00.000+10:00

well what a eventful start to the year we have had. Lots of ups and downs but mainly ups. January saw Airi turning 6, while just this week Grace is 5 and settled well into Prep! With the new house (which seems all to familiar) came new beginnings. Lucas joining the Navy and me joining a Gym! LOL! There is one that has bought much excitement to our family and that is the arrival of our 'not yet named' pure bread Lilac Border Collie! So any suggestions for names will be much appreciated. It has been over a week and I think that he is starting to think that his name is 'Doggy'! Working on a movie file of our recent Dalmeny camping trip so if anyone has any photos that they can send me from Dalmeny that would be great. Hoping to have it posted on here in about week or so.

C'mon all you "contributors" start blogging :-)

2009-02-16T13:48:00.000+10:00

Everything in life is writeable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it & the imagination to improvise. The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt.
-Sylvia Plath

We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospection.

-Anais Nin

Look Who's Growing Up

2009-02-16T12:58:00.001+10:00

When Kawehi turned 8, I told her that she was allowed to have her ears pierced. She has thought about it over the last couple of years but couldn't ever build up enough courage. On Saturday (3 days short of her 10th b-day) she informed me that she was ready to go through with it.

On our way to the market, I remembered that there was a silver jewellery shop next door that also pierced ears (and other bits and pieces I found out later). We arrived and there was a nice girl at the desk who explained that "the piercer" had just ducked out but would be back in a few minutes. While we waited, Kawehi chose her earrings and I filled out the necessary forms. As we finished up the formalities, in walks "the piercer" and I immediately thought to myself WHAT HAVE I DONE???? His face was covered with silver studs (yes his face) and his earlobes hung to his shoulders (think African tribesman). I looked over at Kawehi and Ollie and they looked scared. . .

I wasn't sure what to do, but before I could think, he introduced himself and actually seemed quite nice. He turned out to be very professional, measuring and re-measuring Kawehi's earlobes making sure everything was symmetrical, I was impressed. He was quick and precise with the ear piercing "gun" and before we knew it the painful part was over and a mirror was placed in front of her face so that she could admire her new blue/green earrings.

Extreme Makeover

2009-02-16T11:41:00.000+10:00

Before

Last week our helpful little Spencer stood perfectly still as Ollie tried out his haircutting skills. Several blonde chunks later, we were left with no choice but to take Spencer for a very short haircut. It turned out pretty cute I think.

After

Pictures of the Ziegelbauer baby exclusive to Wolff 'n' Stuff

2009-02-07T04:10:00.000+10:00

Reef Aaron Matthew Ziegelbauer was born at 3:51pm local time in Cairns, north Queensland. He weighed in at 3.3kg (7lb 4oz) and measured 49cm long. He spent the first few hours of his life safe in his mothers arms and was eventually relocated, with his mother, to the maternity ward of the Cairns Base Hospital where he spent most of the next couple of days sound asleep. He took his time to start feeding but eventually worked it out and is now an eating machine! Ali and Reef came home from the hospital yesterday and spent their first night at home. Ali was glad to finally have a bit of help through the night, and I'm getting a clearer picture on exactly how hard Ali's had to work while I haven't been there. The plan, so far, is to remain in Cairns for a couple more days so that Ali and Reef can get a little more settled and then we'll fly down to Melbourne. We hope everyone gets a chance to come by and meet the newest edition to the family.

Hello From Dad

2009-02-06T11:59:00.000+10:00

Hello Everyone,

This is my first attempt to post a blog ever. I fully support the Wolf'N' Stuff blog site it's a great way to keep in touch and know what everyone is doing. It's really a modern version of the Rancie family newsletter and has the advantage that the work of collecting and publishing is not left to one person alone. That can be also a disadvantage because there is no one person to push it along. Perhaps Tim since you have started it you might be able to send out a monthly reminder to all of us.

As you all know Mum and I have relocated from the Gold Coast to Seaford. Lizzie is with us and we are all enjoying Kananook Ave. together. Melbourne is very different to the Gold Coast, being larger, hotter (at the present) and very, very dry. There are no beautiful green lawns, tropical trees, green hills or running creeks and rivers. You may be relieved to know that Lucas and Elsi will be renting our Helensvale house; so visits to the Gold Coast might still be an option.

On Australia Day weekend Lizzie and I drove up to Gordon on sunday afternoon. We started a campfire and waited for Steven and his girls to join us. When they did we cooked dinner - baked beans and tinned casserole for me. T-bone steak and salad for Steven for the girls. Perhaps success has made him a little more fussy about food.

On Monday Lizzie and I dug and watered around the fruit trees and drove home to Seaford at lunchtime feeling quite satisfied with a job well done. Just as well because in the following week temperatures rose up to the mid 40's. I hope you will all take the opportunity, when you can, to come and have a campfire with us at Gordon; it's usually peaceful and a pleasant rural scene. We intend to put a house on it as soon as we can.

I have started a new job in Melbourne. This week I flew to South Australia to visit some wind farms. They are impressive. The towers are 80m tall and the blades reach up to 124m.

I hope to see some blogs from as many as possible.

Dad

41 WEEKS (OVERDUE)

2009-01-29T22:50:00.000+10:00

A week after our Nautilus experience most people are asking where the baby is? Alison and I are wondering the same thing. After all the aromatherapy massage, acupressure, hot baths, pineapples, Clary Sage sniffing, copious amounts of water, steak, laxatives, walking up and down the "red arrow" (a local walking track on the Whitfield range), four wheel driving, raspberry leaf tablets and driving up and down the Gillies range you'd imagine that we'd have welcomed our little bundle of joy into the world all ready. However in spite of him being overdue he remains comfortable and cosy inside his mother's tummy.

We have tried to make the most of or time in Cairns but haven't been able to do all that we've planned. I guess that means we'll just have to come back again...if the baby comes and we can ever leave, that is.

Joys of motherhood

2009-01-29T14:29:00.001+10:00

Every once in a while things go very quiet at our house. Unfortunately, this is not my cue to relax it is my signal to ruuun because I might (and usually do) find something like this:

40 WEEKS

2009-01-24T00:49:00.000+10:00

The due date finally arrived and assuming that this could very well be our final night alone we decided to celebrate it in Port Douglas at the Nautilus restaurant. We had heard that it was the grand daddy of all fine dining and that we had to experience it at least once in our lifetime. The restaurant does not cater for children under eight, in order to "preserve the experience of elegant outdoor dining with a unique ambiance," and we figured it was either now or never.

Dalmeny Pics!

2009-01-22T14:20:00.000+10:00

Dalmeny Summer Holiday

2009-01-22T13:58:00.000+10:00

Dalmeny absolutley lived up to all the hype all these years that I have been hearing about it! What a beautiful place... The views amazing. We had to do all the things that lucas remembers growing up. The 'Kinema', listen to the bell birds everytime we went into Narooma. Tilba cheese is the best cheese that I have tasted to this day! We even took over mum and dads role of looking for a property to buy! We have decided on one thing, this is where the kids and I will be living for 6 months while Lucas is doing his training at Jervis Bay only 2 hours away. Already planning the next one! See you there!

Cairns. . . .LOVE it or LEAVE it??

2009-01-22T11:27:00.000+10:00

After spending all morning under blue skies at the Lagoon and then stopping at the Brittish Lolly Shop afterwards for Dr. Pepper and other American goodies, Cairns is back on my good side (although the relationship is still on shaky ground). This time of year is always the time that Tim and I decide to leave Cairns. Last year we decided to move to the States, this year Williamstown has caught our eye. I have started to recognize that there is a pattern! We can't stand the whole build up to rainy season and its even more unbearable when the rains come and don't end for months. If we can hold out until April we usually fall in love again but its a struggle to get there. One thing that makes me happy, however, are these lovely paintings. Hayley Gillespie is a local artist (I only just discovered that she lives right down the road). I would love to one day have a children's bedroom with these prints adorning the walls and then it wouldn't matter what the weather was like outside!

on a more serious note. . .I am sure that there are others out there that have something to add here on wolff 'n' stuff (I'm talking to you "concerned citizen " ) Can't wait to hear from everyone soon!

GETTING STARTED

2009-01-16T12:39:00.000+10:00

This past week has been about RAIN, RAIN, RAIN. . . Our thoughts have been with the other members of the family who are currently basking in the sun and drinking in the never-ending stretch of blue sky and golden sand that is Dalmeny. Yes, we are jealous! Tim has been digging a "french drain" around the house to keep the waters at bay. It has been a muddy, mouldy, sweaty week and we can honestly say, "we wish we were there!"