night then, love you
I'm sure her dress is wonderful say g'day to Micky I'll say g'day to Lisa for you nighty night xox
but did you know that Anna bought her wedding dress today? Michael has had a hilarious trip from Berlin to Barcelona but he arrived in time for the concenrt. Actually, faithless hussy that I am, I'm chatting to him right now as well. Giove Lisa my love too
It must be very late there why r u still awake?
I meant me not you! All good here n you two (I can see how Mick n Anna are)
I'll get there, give me time. How are you (both & all)?
Indeedy but not yet competent
Hi David - I see you're around! IU'm learning to chat, so cool
Hi Nick. Here's the link to your Wedding eBook, as Anna suggested. Just let me know if there's a problem please. Sue
He's wandered off & tonight he's letting me knit. They are getting along and Normie is quite settled for a mad thing! Sounds like your holiday is wonderful
Were about to go and get lunch now...
Hi Mummy!! I am sitting at NIcks computer :-) We just bought train tickets to Barcelona tomorrow. Very cute pics of the boys!
hi Nick, is Anna still there? did you see Normie and Fritzi's pics? Are you having an amazing time?
hey Dan. Dobt forget to send me your scrap asap - I'm in the middle of the project already! You could beat your mother and sister and be the good child!
it is definately the Photoshop of the Social Networking world.
ok cool
facebook is so amazing! starting in mid-June. Tx Sue
hey there
hi Dan
hey sue, how soon did u need that material by/
Fabulous!,
Not sure I told you.. the package has arrived
hey - how goes?
Sounds nice. Wish I could see ruby and Jessie. Andrew didn't mention my parcel arriving for him (actually ruby and Jessie, nothing for him)
Great. I think there's one more to come. Two actually because your birthday present is about to go into the mail. Had lunch with Andrew, Bec & Ruby today, with Jim Anna & Jessie. Very nice. Xxx
Hi Sue, just letting you know two packages have arrived. I'll email you properly shortly
I put that video clip on Andrew's USB stick - but not sure he gave it to you to get them off again....
ok - sounds good. Richard is going to meet a friend for lunch & I'll try to get my head around what to say @ the meet-up
great, c u around 10.30 ish then
I hope we'll leave before 9
What time do you think you'll get here?
:-)
always (till Monty arrives anyway!)
I think Fritz will be pleased he came first
oh hi Eileen - Fritzi and some of the cheese would be nice! Maybe pikelets but they should try to eat them!
Mum wants to know what else we should try to bring back?
missed you!
Hi Eileen - Luke's jacket, size 5, is in the post. I've popped in a couple of t-shirts for each of the boys too.
Hey, we still owe you something for your project. Haven't forgotten (or...sent it yet...). Will get to it this week.
heh, I think that it shows me as on FB whenever my computer is on....
Hi Toby - there you are again, online. Sue xxx
sweet
Jacob mostly ignores Leo, but has a couple of times tried to rock him when he was crying.
I just started with 'chatting' when I realised I could catch Michael. He's traveling, currently in Barcelona. Be so nice when he comes home, in a week or so
Leo is good, getting bigger, eating a little more and sleeping a little more. Smiling a lot. He's a very smiley talkative baby.
oh great, thanks Toby. I've had such positive responses, it should be pretty good
We must just be on fb at the same time....really not on it all that often.
Hi!! Sorry that we haven't yet replied to your email, but of course we'd love to send you something for your project.
Sue
you seemed to be permanently on Facebook! How is Leo settling in and does Jacob love him to bits? love to Marilyn too
Hi Toby
Sue. Stay special!
Ps I forgot to thank you for your card, greeting and great photo of you both. Once again ! We didn't send out cards but it's lovely to be in touch with you. Xxx
It's the falls that do it Sue but 95 is a b. good innings especially if most of it was happy. Will be thinking of you all on Tuesday. Am sure it will be a lovely affirmation of the last of the 5 sisters. She was the last wasn't she?? Gosh now I am not sure. Anyway, take care. Sending love and hugs Shirl xx
Hi Shirl - thanks for your message. Fran had some falls and pains in the last few weeks & she was 95. Judy Pauline & Lynne were with her. The funeral is on Tuesday. I've passed on your condolences. Have you had a happy Christmas? We all enjoyed our Xmas excess and today Nick's parents have been for lunch. Much love Sue
Sue. So sorry to hear about Fran's passing. She certainly looked amazing on that photo of you and Pauline having lunch with her somewhere - so this caught me unawares. Please give my warmest thoughts to Judy and Pauline. And of course, to you Sue. Fran was just so like your own good mum. Hugs xx
We're off tomorrow Sue. Just a short one -Singapore and a tiny cruise to Thailand and south Vietnam.. Crazy how we keep flirting off- but it's fun. About ready to start the packing too! Glad Wolfden looks so bright and cheerful ! Love S xx
thanks Shirl; that's a sweet dream. I'm going well and Spring has been lovely this year because the electric fence Jim installed early last year has kept the deer out. So we enjoyed fabulous flowering and bright new growth. Have you and Russ been tripping again? Love Sue
Sue, I had a dream about you and Jim last night- moving huge art works from a hallway into some other room. You were both just the same and loved your home and the art work was something that seemed familiar to me...(in my dream anyway!). I haven't phoned to see how you are but I do think of you often. Hope all is well as Spring brightens up everyone's lives in Melb! Hugs and love Shirl xx
Hi Shirl, many thanks, such a generous offer. The cruise was actually Jim's idea! We're going with old friends, Pete and Lins, for 8-day Pacific cruise; should be fabulous. I always thought the Arctic cruise that you did looked amazing too. Much love Sue
Our dates are Oct 27 to November 9 if that helps. Lovely time of year to float in the pool and have lots of alfresco dinners on the patio!! It will be warm though- If Jim can't make it, bring Anna or .....? If there is a month that suits you best, let me know for next year Sue. I'd love for you to enjoy our little piece of Paradise sometime. Really... And a cruise sounds perfect. Where to?? That's what we are doing in late October - just for a week!
Hi Shirley, that's incredibly generous of you - and kind to think of it. Many thanks. Not sure what we'll be doing - in April we are going on a cruise. So probably couldn't also plan for a holiday in March. In October, Jim is going to Japan so a second trip is not very likely. But it's such a lovely offer. And I'd love to see your garden too.. Live, Sue
Sue, glad you have a fire going. I can imagine how you might need it at night! I had a thought. We are away for about 13 days and the house is empty- except for our adorable cat Chloe- in late October. This year. And again in March next year for about 10 days. You and Jim may like to avail yourself of our home and pool and cars on one or other of these times? The house is very comfortable and If you are interested, let me know sometime. No pressure. I have already arranged for my neighbour to feed the cat but Chloe ( cat) would be delighted if there was some human company!! Don't answer now. Just consider if it might suit. Hugs xx
Hi Shirley, thanks for your note, and also to Russ for his email. We're snuggled up with a fire at Wolfden, but I envy you the Queensland warmth right now. Love Sue
Sue. I can only begin to imagine how tough these weeks have been for you. But 'taxing' is a word I wouldn't have thought of. 'Bloody revolting' would be my take! I knew you would have a wonderful support team behind you and I am so so happy that the blood tests show a good response. Sue, this is the toughest battle Imaginable and there is no easy way out but the easing of your pain is such a positive sign. That in itself is a huge bonus at this stage. Do take care of you and let Jim worry about all the mundane things- concentrate on staying strong and getting through this. You will. I know. So good to hear from you Sue.
Oh, hit post too quickly - I enjoyed following the posts of your fabulous trip; what an adventure. Love Sue
Hi Shirl, thanks for your note. Ill have the 4th and last chemo treatment next Tuesday and then should begin to feel more like my old self. Chemo is pretty taxing, as you would know. The results from the blood tests are good and Jim is optimistic. The pain in the pelvic bone is pretty well gone too and now I am walking with just a stick, so the bone has strengthened a lot. Everyone, family & friends, are being incredibly supportive, especially Jim of course, who is providing excellent care, expert advice and he's learning to cook!
Sue, how are you going? I watch your facebook site but don't want to write anything on it. Are you up country? or in Williamstown? I think of you often.
Friends and family are so important Sue. Don't hesitate to call on them
Hi Shirl, going ok thanks. This is a good week and I'm feeling well; having lovely visits from fiends and family etc. Your trip photos are fabulous. Love Sue
Sue how are you coping? It must be shockingly hard but I do so hope you have the support you need to counteract the onslaught. Stay strong and focus on your grand daughter and your next one(?) Is another one coming? Just thinking of you Sue. xx
Sue- another thought. Russ' (our?) daughter-in-law has just been through the cancer-chemo nightmare and wrote a blog that you may- or may not- want to read. FYI it is www.caseyhatesthecword.blogspot.com I thought her writing was very raw and real and she tells it as she was feeling at the time. Warning- there is a bit of swearing. Xxx
Sue. I'm in bed at 5 am in the Grand Canyon and woke to see your message. I am devastated and shocked to hear what you have been going through. A walking frame? Secondary tumour? Lung cancer? You never smoked though? I just don't understand. Oh Sue, how frightening all this must have been. And must still be. And now you have to face chemo too which in itself is a daunting process no matter which way you look at it. You have looked so happy in the few Facebook posts I have seen and of course life goes on. But this tunnel you are now facing ( I can never think of chemo and cancer as a 'journey') is irrevocably real; you will fight it, hate it, endure it and ultimately survive it. But it does have an end and you must focus on that point and know you have Jim and the most supportive and loving family living it all by your side. Oh my dear Sue- what a really dreadful blow. I can do nothing but send my strongest loving thoughts to the woman who was my bestest friend for so long. You are a beautiful person Sue- always have been; so strong and caring and giving. All your friends will be rallying around you now, as would I if I were there. Warm cyber space bear hugs Sue and heaps and heaps of love. Shirl xx
Hi Shirl, I thought I should let you know that I was diagnosed with lung cancer about 5 weeks ago. Only discovered this because I was having trouble in the pelvic bone, caused by a secondary tumor. I've had radiation treatment for that, reducing the pain and hopefully strengthening the bone. I' m getting around ok with a walking frame. I start chemo on Tuesday. Rotten luck but there you go. Love seeing your travel pics. Love Sue
Just saw photos of Kath andFrank, with Margaret too in one of the other photos. (Tasmania Margaret?) . And then the old car loaded up. Such nostalgia for your family Sue!
Sue, That Farmers Market initiative sounds like something we used to be able to access years ago when in melb....but it was run by people who sourced the farmers and then delivered to you so there was an added charge. Still it was great at the time. Just thought I should let you know too that mum had a fall on Feb 17, went to hospital ( acute kidney failure, dehydration and only 34 kilos)and only got out on Wednesday last week. I spent over 5 weeks down there trying to effect all the things needed for an ACAT Assessment, then the ghastly job of form filling for High level Care facilities. Took forever since suitable (read comfortable and nice) vacancies were few and far between. Shed lots of tears for the shell that is now our mum but we decorated her room beautifully with all her paintings and set it up on easter Monday. Being out of my comfort zone wasnt easy but Jacki and Phil were fantastic. Only got home here last Sat night. We will be down again in late May; can't leave it much later than that and it seemed like a good time to give Jacki and Phil a warm holiday up here - as a house swap! Mum is in Kensington, much closer to Jacki now so that is better for popping in. Gosh it was/is a hard thing to do to your mother. Thought of contacting you when down there but just didnt feel social. There will be another time!! Take care Sue.
Have just put a photo of mum and me on Facebook. She is so diminutive now.....
Sue, just wanting you to know that I am thinking of you and Anna. Very busy days I am sure but also very, very exciting. Enjoy each and every moment!
Hi Shirley the show is great - your shared garden looks marvellous (and so do you)! Sue
sue - just for the hell of it, my email is shirley_bacon@optusnet.com.au I do not want to lose contact with you. And since you remembered me today, check out the ABC Gardening Australia webiste - my neighbour and I featured on last night's show! It is a bit embarassing because I am NOT a gardener - I just keep things neat - but our gardens did look good and it was our garden that featured most. If you see it, please excuse my awful Australian accent. Cheers, Sh
Hi Shirley I am an infrequent Facebook user but I seem to have lost your email address. I always think of you on your birthday - have for years even though you had no way of knowing that (sorry) - and this year I was determined to send you our best wishes for today and the coming year. Love Sue
Thanks for the message. Didn't know you used facebook - (and I don't much) but it is lovely to hear from long lost friends! Hope life is good! Big hugs to you and Jim.
Happy Birthday Shirley! I hope you had a great day and are partying tonight? Love Sue and Jim
Good to hear from you! When you have fully recovered from youe chemo we must meet up again!
Hi Elliot, thanks for your updated mobile no, and yes, I loved the photo. So young and full life, weren't we? I've had chemo this week but so far, so good. Actually the effects will kick in tomorrow for the weekend but we understand the cycle now and manage it. I hope Sara is doing ok?
I noticed that the mobile number I gave you back then was wrong - 0419163295 is the correct version. All the best! Elliot ps - did you like the photo I sent you via Jim
It was really good seeing you and Jim again last week! Must do it again sometime soon.
Hi Elliot. Many thanks for coming over to visit last week. It was really lovely to see you. I'm sorry I had to rest to get rid of a migraine. But it was so terrific that you and Jim were still chatting when I woke up! I've been hopeless with fb messaging till now. So I see I missed your 2010 message. Nice to be back in touch. Sue xxx
Hi Sue, Be great to talk to you again. I don't actually have your phone number. Been out of touch with Jim for some time. Tried to ring him at Melbourne Uni a few times but never got through - I guess he travels a lot. My numbers are 0418 163295, 9578 3295 (home), 8344 4136 (w)
Hi Elliot nice to hear from you. I'm back in Melbourne now - do you have our phone no? I think Jim has your number? Sue
Be good to catch up and find out how you are going as i haven't seen or otherwise had contact with you for quite some years. Where are you living these days? Elliot
night
night normie, night mum
cold, yes
found keys
hope it's nice up there - you found keys etc? I bet it's cold - it is here too as our heating is on the blink. Bedtime for Normie and also for me. 'Night
what's happening?
hey mum
Hi Michael
just sent you an email
yep
....still awake? just a few more hours I guess. Hope everything goes smoothly from this point. xxxx
I rang Qantas - you should be able to change your flight home - it can be kept for up to a year from your original departure in February. You'll need to change the booking before the booked flight (I think you'd be scheduled to fly out on Sunday 5 June). So it should be fine and you could do this on Saturday. xxx
hi darling
so many stern letters to write
i also need to sort out the refund on my air berlin flight, which was cancelled due to the volcano, and my deutsch rail ticket, which was over an hour late
i´ll cal them before to be safe
´think so, i´ll check thatr
yep, we must see if your Qantas flight can be re-scheduled. But you can do that when you get home since that'll be before your scheduled departure, won't it?
,)
oh all good. i did have a bit planned in london that i have to cancel now. bit shit. i´ll just have to go back over later in the year
pity you missed your last few days in London though. Did you have much planned? It sounds like the EE mob were pretty concerned about you?
not tell too many people i´´m back early
might have to hide for a week though
yeh looking forward to being home
I'm totally free then of course. I'll sort out dinner too. be so-o lovely to see you home, can't wait
that´d be nice if you´re free, otherwise i´m cool to take the bus
ok, I understand that! You can sleep for a week or so when you get hone anyway. I'll pick you up, shall I?
then i can sleep on the long flight tomorrow
best to just stay awake through the night
whcih is 4.30 anyway
in going to leave my bags at the hostel and get to the airport around 3, make sure im there real early. i dont want even the chance to accidentally sleep through the early check in
no noç
but aren't you staying there tonight too - even though it's very early departure, poor darling
x
heaps of love xxxxxx
see you soon!
thanks
i can print it out tomorrow
talk tomorrow. Get a bed and have a nice day in Barcelona
sent
yep got the itinerary dad sen
Expedia itinerary number: 137220497465 Airline ticket number(s): 6078656462344 Etihad Airways confirmation code: Z4JLKI
details coming
YEP GOT IT
ETHIAD airways confirmation code Z4JLKI
aha yeah its like this everyday on here
NOW I'm totally addicted!
god bless facebook
he's just sent you travel confirmation
what a difficult situation
thanks for your help
oh thank god
it's booked - come on home; yes, it's the right thing to do at this stage. Dad's emailing you the details -
i was just writing to ask if you think this is the right thing to do, or if i should see if i can get through heathrowe. but you know what, on the advice i've been given by customs, on the comments i've seen on the net, and the trouble i've already had with the embassies, I don't think it's worth the risk of being in exactly the same position 6 days from now
yes, go, please, thanks
ok he's about to pay for it. Ok to go?
aisle
ok, got the screen shot and he's doing it again with the later date (2 June). Now he's got the booking up. got a seat preference?
i just couldn't do it starting tomorrow morning. ive been in transit now for two days already
and refreshed because i won't be able to sleep on the plane until get onto the longer flights to abu dabi
reason for the extra day: i can recover tonight and tomorrow morning, make sure i get to the airport extra early
then 2hr connections in between
at 6:30
starting on Thursday 2n
i think it's the same as the expedia ones BUT
from a cheap tickets search
i just sent you a screen shot
i'll email you the ones i'm thinking hang on
Yes - looks like he can, via Expedia - Ethiad - departs 6.30am tomorrow (1 June) arrives Melb 2 June at 6.10pm. would this work
via credit
seems to be working for me
or cheap tickets
he's trying to book the flight (ie to see if we can do it from here) - thinks he may be able to do it through Expedia.
i think it would take a day or two for a transfer to go through wouldn't it?
my mastercard is 5188680102324425 expiry 02/14 ccv 441 name Michael Rowley Falk
yes, agree that you need to srtay in Barcelona tonight (get somewhere to stay) give us your mastercard details so we can ger $$ into it. We're not sure that we can book it online - dad's been trying
so i think these are my options:
before doing the long flight home
i haven't slept at all last night - spent the whole night and two days in transit. i need a break.
couldn't you book it online? i've decided that i can't go tonight
we're happy to pay for the flight but we dont know how to do that
would that work ok?
as in put it on your card and i transfer the money to you
or you could pay the flight and i pay you back when i get home?
yes we think you have enough for the airfare and we could probably pay for hotels etc. Give us your mastercard details and Dad will see if he can pay $$ into it.
but i've narrowed down to two options
oh wait, maybe not
i think i have enough
yes darling Dad's working out how to get $$ to you
hey are you there?
xx
go then. xxxxx
feel a bit sick haven't slept need to think this through
yep i really got to get some lunch
if you bought the ticket online, you could charge it to my mastercard
i'll sort it out and let you know
can we move money into your mastercard? is it with NAB? or else we can transfer to your Bendigo Bank account - will that work. Yes get lunch!
i think i need to get some lunch
i'll have to transfer some funds over anyway which will take a day or two
don't think it'll be enough
i have 1200 on my mastercard
on wed or thurs
it looks like it'll cost a grand to get from brussels to melbs using etihad
Damn. But is there a airline counter in the airport? and make sure you have enough euros in cash for Brussels too. Hard to pay by card.
maybe there's a desk here at the airport though
yep seems to be booked out today
brussels airport isn't really a place where you can hang about for 12 hours. may need to get a hotel room there or something. Buses and trains into the city
ah it's back on
their website is off air
sounds okay - will you take it?
it's $842, leaves here at 9:05pm, 12 hr layover in brussels
if the flight seems to be booked out, you could check if there's a wait list
you can book on orbitz.com or cheaptickets.com.
leaves at 9:45
yeh i've seen that one it's the best i've found and it's actually cheaper than later in the week
Dad's looking up flights and fares now. Ethiad Airline $886 goes through Abu Dhabi then direct to Tullamarine. Check that out?
anyhow it's late there i spose - i should let you sleep
all their contact numbers are fucked
i can't get through the aus embassy in uk or spain, or the uk embassy in spain
i'm looking at how a flight from barcelona later in the week compares to the price of a hostel for the same period
well, may be time to decide if it's going to be sorted out today - if not, get a hotel or something. You could visit UK Consulate in the morning etc
no not yet i'm still working out what to do. at the airport
I guess you've sorted out somewhere to stay tonight though?
not sure
does your travel insurance cover any of this?
nice!
ahaa the enhanced editions crew are discussing coming to barcelona for the night... we were supposed to have drinks
bastards. Is that what the Oz Embassy said? maybe you should just come home via Frankfurt or Paris and not bother about trying to get back through UK? let us know asap if you need us to move $$ into your account etc. I'm going to Sydney in the morning and Dad's going to San Diego. But I'll be back tomorrow night. And sms to iphone works well when I'm travelling
but nobody except the customs office can make a judgment on entry
i could apply for a transit visa
after a refusal of entry
it looks like it's completely at their discretion to allow transit
ok, that's good then.
and if i look into citizenship too
they said it wouldn't be much of an issue in the future. it's on the record but no ban from entry. the customs guy advised that i get a visa for future entry into the uk and there would be no issue
We're ready to kick in $$, including fare home direct from Barcelona, not going through UK.
.. and try the Briitsh Consulate. There's one in Barcelona - contact 34 93 366 6200; Address is Avenida Diagonal 477, 13a planta 08036 Barcelona. Need to get this sorted out because it will remain on your record (have you ever been refused entry, etc). Must be a way to appeal this and get it corrected.
once i know the actual state of play i can make decisions about what to do
just got to work it out
simon's in portugal now so i don't really know anyone here. anyway, i'll call the embassy now
there's a British Airways flight from Barcelona to London Heathrow. And yo dont have to be stuck in Barcelona, you can go anywhere in Europe! But you do have friends there! I think the Oz Embassy is the first port of call
i guess there are worse cities in the world to be stuck
also check with the airlines - does Qantas fly Barcelona-Heathow?
ok i need to check on that though cause it's contrary to the advice i've been given
Dad says if you're flying from Barcelona to Oz transiting through Heathrow, you dont go through immigration anyway. Yes, you'll have to stay in Barcelona but you should able to connect with your home flight.
lucy just got me the number
but i'll try the embassy
the customs guy said it would be risky
would they let you transit through Heathrow so you can pick up your home flight? We'll pick up the costs of accommodation and additional airfares (Dad agrees and says 'bastards') I think definitely try to Oz Embassy
uk and aus
but yes, i should call the embassies
yep but then what do i do in barcelona for a week - would have to pay for accommodation here which could end up half the cost of a new ticket home
maybe try the Australian Embassy. It's their job to help and they might intervene to get you into the UK
i could just be refused entry again
the customs guy said it would be risky to go back through heathrow
well, i just need to work out what to do
darling if you just need $$ or ff points, I'll sort that out in a jiff, anyway!
wouldn't let me show them my bank details on the internet. wouldn't let me call anyone
but ee would have confirmed that you were not paid surely?
and didn't believe that i wasn't being paid
why would your ee notes be an issue?
refused at gatwick. they went through my luggage and found all my ee notes
you could ring home, reverse charges to actually talk
why were you refused entry to uk? does this mean you've lost your flight home? do you need me to transfer frequent flyer points for the flight?
need to sort out route home
refused entry to uk, back in bcn
there's a been a problem need to sort out
sorry just chatting to a travel agent friend of mine
yeah, no problem - is there something up?
but just talking to someone urgent
can you hang online one sec pleeeease. need to chat
here we are agin, chatting, cant believe it! What time & day does your flight come in next week? Should I pick you up? Happy to do that of course. Are you in London yet? heaps of love Mum
hi mum need to chat one sec
Hi Mick
ha nice night xx
I've been chatting to David Palmer - god, so gregarious - and he says hello. Dad's writing a paper & is going to USA for a few days, leaving Wed but back before you come home. Fritzi's having a little dream. And I'm about to head off to bed, night darling
got a stop in geneva though, which is beautiful and the views from the window were really spectacular. and i guess cause i didn't really intend to do much moving around it was good to cover some land
welll, you have really traveled Europe - partying it into submission across the continent. Very thorough approach, commendable to leave no land-locked country unturned
so an overnight train turned into a 36 hour ordeal through the german, swiss, french and spanish countryside
dont worry, you'll know.
had to stay in switzerland because the rail company stuffed up my connection in bern
good good just remind me a week before it's on ;)
.. and how come you stayed overnight in Switzerland? I guess you are really keen to know that Anna's wedding plans are coming together well. She's ordered The Dress today.
cool is it cold up there?
nice! yeh apparently it's been being built for the past 200 years. pretty spectacular though
that's the amazing Gaudi cathedral, right? Mark Burry at RMIT has done computer modeling of what the finished architecture should be, based on Gaudi's material and methods. We;'re at Wolfden and having a nice time
got to the event in good time, and after a 36 hour ordeal walked straight into the middle of the crowd with nick cave on stage
yep staying with simon at his apartment next to sangrada familiar
are you staying with Simon and did you get to the event in time?
hey mum yeah it's great!
hi Mick, just touched base and here you are! Is Barcelona really fun?
are you up?
Hi Jim, Facebook now lets people choose a legacy contact to manage their account if something happens to them: https://www.facebook.com/help/1568013990080948 Since you know me well and I trust you, I chose you. Please let me know if you want to talk about this.
wow! Cool! ROFL
hello wolf - I'm chatting on facebook. Be very amazed
Sorry, as you already know I'm a techno klutz! Didn't mean to send this pic - espec not twice. My fingers do their own thing sometimes. I don't use fbk much and each time it seems to be different! Can't even see how to delte it. Everything was so easy when it was just letters! xx
Hi Sue, Just a quick hi to say thinking of you all - I'm very fondly looking at your little triibe in the garden on your timeline as I write - and hoping you are doing ok. How was your day today? I enjoyed a good half day of drawing so am feeling quite relaxed, Weather is warm with balmy evenings or wild storms depending on whim apparently. Here's a pic of garden a few evenings ago. Mainly grass but beautiful in it's way. I'm guessing your Wolfden flowers are in full and glorious bloom by now.
Hi Darien, many thanks for your lovely message. You do sound busy - it was so good to see the photo of you and Yvette at Byron Bay. Greg's rainforest project is amazing - chain-sawing does sound like 'a challenge'. We're snug at Wolfden, and we even had a friend over for lunch. The final chemo treatment is this coming Tuesday; not sure what happens after that, we'll see. Heaps of love, Sue
Very happy to hear that the chemo is doing what it's supposed to do and that you're able to move about more freely now. The weather seems to have been freezing up and down the coast so I'm guessing indoors is the best place to be anyway. We've had a fairly steady stream of visitors - Yvette and Raj this last week-end, my sister Michelle and her friend last week, an aunt in her eighties next week. It's been lovely but not a lot of time for projects other than keeping the house and garden ticking over. I can't imagine how you manage to look after two homes but it's great that you do as they're both very special places. The planting of Greg's rainforest is complete and he is working hard to keep the weeds and rogue trees at bay until a canopy forms and takes over this task in about four years time! He's unstable on the slopes so slithers around on his back-side chain-saw in hand to do the job! It's quite a sight! Love and hugs
Hi Darien. Thanks and I've been thinking of you too. What are you up to? Still quilting? How is the rainforest reclamation project going? I've had 3 chemo treatments now, one to go. We seem to be getting good results and I can walk with just a stick - actually I don't even need the stick around home. Have you had lots of visitors? Love, Sue
Just saying hi and reminding you that we are thinking of you and hoping that you are doing ok, though we know that if anyone has the strength to deal with this it's you. Love and hugs xx
Hi Darien, the memorial service sounds lovely and I sent Yvette a note on her birthday (thank you FB!) Glad to see you coming through and I understand your feelings about collecting her things from the Nursing Home - but it's probably not a huge task; unlike the finances! Don't forget that Jim's always available to advise, having done this task so comprehensively with his mother's estate! The wedding plans are coming together and I'll talk to Jim about Hobart. Sounds nice but I think my sister will be here still. Love for now, Sue
Hi Sue, All four services are now over and though still have Mum's finances to settle and clothes to collect from Nursing home (can't quite face this and keep postponing) it feels as though there is time to pause and think of other things. Just giving you a short update on plans, still very vague but firming up. A few days in the Yarra xxx? hotel, now booked, then a few days in Melbourne to check out art etc then off to Hobart for maybe a week. Thinking of being away for 2 - 3 weeks all up. If you two fancy a week in Hobart feel free to join us - we have day trips to surrounds in mind as well. A quiet day today, I can feel some painting coming on. On the weekend Yvette's birthday and our 35th anniversary to celebrate, both of which fell last week but were sidelined due to the Memorial Service. The service all home-grown was perfect for Mum and very consoling. Lots of dear friends of Mum who brought plates and shared happy memories. Darein xx
Hi Sue, Thanks for the encouragement re knitting. Don't know what I can turn it into but at least it's a start! After this ... a beany for Greg. How are your projects coming on? I'd love to see some of your knitting projects. My mini-story hasn't been forgotten - just delayed by some awful medical stuff re Greg's eye that's going on at the moment. He developed a nasty infection in his partly paralysed eye that resulted in a badly ulcerated cornea, temporarily dealt with by sewing his eye closed until they can figure out what to do next. Very disappointing as he's been making such steady, albeit, slow, progress. You must be about ready to leave for Europe. II'll wish you all the best for a fabulous trip now, just in case we don't speak again before you leave. I'd love to see the travel pics sometime. I'm guessing there'll be a bit of white stuff around. Take care but have fun and much love to you and Jim. xxx
And again..
Hi Sue ... my Mum xx
happy birthday dear Sue, hope you had a wonderful day! and best wishes for your new year :)
yes v good thanks. Heaps of love back to you all & happy weekend!!
oops connection problem!
:) expression on MOnty's face is priceless ..."I just know someone's going to put a hat on me in a minute ..."
thanks, Monty is 4 months now and very funny little dog. Hope you're going well and heaps of love. Sue
Hi Sally
Hello!! I am just loving your latest pictures :)
Hi Sue ...I love your profile photo! Hope you are having a great weekend. Greetings from steamy singapore.
Lol!! I wish we could fit one!
Got our Learning Tower. Poppy uses it more as a ladder to then sit on the benchtop though
You just have to enjoy it everytime you go to Sue's :)
I wish we had room for one here! I'll tell my friend Amy though - she mentioned she might want one.
*valid
So I just ordered one for me and one of my parent group friends who so wanted one when I showed her. They gave it to me for $125, too. They said prices will go up at some point. They are so lovely though. Gave me a voucher code to share with my friends. Vapid for 9 days, code "Victoria" if one of your friends wants to get one, too, Anna.
Yes so long as she goes down for a nap - preferably straight after lunch with you doing the footwork! Although I do enjoy the dummy negotiation.
That's perfect indeed! So you get to enjoy pure Jessie time without any of the stresses involved <3
And Julie cleans all the Wednesday mess away next morning. That really makes it so easy, what a gem.
And you can have your time to yourself again afterwards ;)
I'll check out Earth Toys, thx. It's all rather fun when you are the grandparent & it's indulgent and not very 'rule-bound' ( thank you Anna darling)
Good to hear you're very relaxed with it. I feel so bad when Poppy's making a mess in other people's houses. But here I also let her roam free, as I think they need to explore and learn. But you never know what other people think. Haha Anna, that's right. She was SOOOO fast in drawing on everything ;) She loved Jessie's pens. Thanks for the tips Sue, the kitchen was so cute, too. Need to get more free play things for Poppy for the house. We'll get there. Do you guys know Earth Toys? Cute little Aussie shop selling great wooden and natural toys: https://www.facebook.com/EarthToys/ I bet cooking with Jessie must have been so much fun. And her doing the dishes looked fun, too. I can't wait to get the tower for Poppy. Will be so good to have her help out better without the fear of her falling off the bench top (where she currently always wants to sit - and I let her, thankfully she hasn't fallen off yet).
Jessie definitely loved it xx
It's good, isn't it? But cooking with her was really lovely!
Lol!! Sorry I don't get to the detail. That's all you!!! Your house is amazing for Jessie!! She loves it!
Of course, Anna darling, you are the real leader in our family. It's fabulous that you find these amazing toys & tools. And you go to actual shops! I just want it to be very Jessie-friendly here, you know that?
And totally re Poppy's drawings!! Easy to clean off the kitchen!! She just drew as fast as I could clean lol! I think she might be an artist
But (not to give Andrew credit) I've been looking into learning towers since Jessie was 1!!
I meant 'not very precious'
Ps were big very precious about drawing surfaces. Houses are for living in!
Hi Vicky. That's great. My nephew had a rigged up high stool for his 2-yr-old & then Anna sent me a post on 'learning towers'. I just followed through but liked this one because it's compact & good price. Plus it's a climbing frame. Nice. I found the art table but had to get it from America. I'm very silly but Jim is indulgent anyway. Why not? The kitchen was from Zuni - online & ive found them reliable. Most of my shopping is online nowadays. I do stuff up from time to time but that's true even if I'm in shops! Thx for your nice comments, makes me feel good. Xxx
Have just sent them a request about the learning tower Have asked for 2, one of my parent group friends wants to get one for her daughter, too. You started a trend there Sue & Jim How do you hear about all these great things? I also loved the drawing table you had in Wolfden. Wooden toys and kids' things are just the best! Poppy loved the table, too, even though she enjoyed drawing on the table itself Poor Anna had to keep wiping it off (she was faster than me seeing all the drawings Poppy made).
For some reason I had Rowville in my head!
Still a 20 min drive for us anyway.
True! But now I'm curious anyway ;)
Free post so it doesn't matter anyway.
Oh? I'll have to check!
I think they were around your area too Vicky
Welcome!
Oh, nice! Thanks for letting me know, Sue I couldn't see it on ebay, but worth checking anyway. Good job Jim! That's very quick, too within a week.
Hi Vicky, didn't want to put this out in 'public' seemed a bit mean - but Jim bought the hubby made on eBay. They say ONO so he offered, and they accepted $125. Free postage. Came within a week. Cheers, Sue
Thank you so much Sue! Anna and I said we'll want to take the girls out again sometime, so we might be back Whenever Anna wants us. Happy to hear you had a fabulous cruise. Bet you made some lovely memories with Jim. Enjoy your evening! Xx
Many thanks for your lovely note Vicky. The photos are great. We're so pleased you and Poppy enjoyed Wolfden; you're very welcome, hope you'll come again. Yes, the cruise was fabulous too. Sue xx
Fabulous photos!! Thanks gorgeous Vicky!! We must get the girls together again soon! It would be great to keep building on the friendship xoxo
Dear Sue & Jim, Poppy and I just got back from A lovely weekend in your beautiful house in Wolfden. We loved the remote area and Poppy was so happy to have Monty and Normie there. She didn't stop calling, cuddling and playing with them. It was so wonderful to spend time with Jessie & Anna, as well as Emma & Eddie. So thank you so much for letting us stay with your lovely daughter, granddaughter and dog. We had a fantastic weekend with so many great memories! Hope you enjoyed your cruise and will be even more excited to see Jessie, Anna and Monty again after 10 days. All the best! Xx Poppy & Vicky
Hi Sue, we starred together in Anouilh's 'The Lark' in 1966. Would be nice to start a dialogue.
That's perfect. Continues the general theme for me.xx
Hi Judy. I'm thinking about it! Don't really have stories but it was very important to Mummy and Fran that they were twins. Kathleen remembered and cared for Fran long after she'd lost her connection with her world, her past and her present. I'm one of the many cousins who adored her. She was steadfast in her loyalties and was renowned for her generosity. I'll ask Lesley.
Hi Sue, just beavering away on the eulogy! Have you a story, funny or not, or just some words that may describe mum? I've asked as many family as possible. Would Lesley have a message too? Xx Judy
Great. We'll aim to come in the morning, if that suits you?
Hi Sue. The three girls are here with her now. She is quite calm but has developed a very chesty cough overnight. Both Pauline and Lynne want me to stay on so have rebooked to fly to Hobart on Thursday evening. Will be good to see you tomorrow. Xx Judy
Hi Judy, I'm sorry that I'll miss seeing you - Jim and I will pop over to see Fran tomorrow. Also, I hope that Graham is doing ok - I'm sorry, it's a bit late to be sending him my best wishes for recovery, but please pass them on! I see your family is well along the way for Xmas, well done. I'm sorry too that Fran's condition means an anxious time - my fingers crossed. Love Sue
Hi Sue Just over until tomorrow afternoon. Still school holidays for us so came to see mum. No Graham. Went up yesterday with Robin and Ingrid and today with David. She was pretty good, very breathless if she has to walk too far. They have moved mum to Room 8.much closer to the dining room and she is happy with that. She enjoyed her calamari and our little drive down memory lane to the Lake. Love Judy
Hi Judy - I'm wondering how your plans for the weekend are shaping up? We had intended to come up to our Healesville cottage as Anna, Nick and Jessie are coming too. We're about to sign off on our new kitchen and I'm hoping to discuss our plans with Anna. But whether we come, and when, really will depend on your plans for Saturday and Sunday (including your flights of course). It's not the end of the world if we end up staying in Williamstown but I was thinking you might be intending to see sisters, friends and cousins anyway? My car is at your service! We're easy, don't worry, but it would be great to know what you're plans are... And do send me your flight times please. Love Sue
Jim also says 'of course'. So send flight details etc . Xxx
Hi Sue tried to call earlier. Graham and I are hoping to come over for Diana's funeral. Would you have a bed for us? Looking to come Friday morning and come homeSunday. Judy xx
Hi Judy.. and here I am in NZ with Lesley. Saw Mummy today; she sang us some little songs! Not that she ever sang much when we were little that we remember. She's okay. Yes, the wedding phtos are pretty nice, aren't they? Sue xxx
hI sue yes thanks had a happy birthday with Nina, Shane, Aidan and Huw.Party pies, sausage rolls, 100's and 1000's, cake and lollies. after a few lollies Aidan was completely out of control. glad I could send him home.the wedding photos look lovely. Anna was a beautiful bride! Judy
Hi D. my FB was accessed from Taiwan recently and FB alerted me. I guess it's pretty common? We now live back in Melbourne where Jim and I grew up. I was working & commuting interstate for 8+ years (2001-2009) and then decided that was enough. So I actually retired in 2009 in order to live at home. I'm rather enjoying working fewer hours and have taken up some creative activities as well. Jim and I are flying out tomorrow to Europe. Warm regards, Sue
Hi Sue Rowley, I changed my name in Facebook, because my yahoo e-mail was hacked and used abusively. Learning from that case now I changed my identity just for FB. Rina and family are fine. I am still directing the Graduate School of Indonesia Art Institute of Yogyakarta. I sometimes still write on art. Recently I have observed the relationship between art and life force. Where do you live and teach now? Warm Regards
More photos of Michael at his proposal presentation. http://pix.kwanghuiseto.com/Private/2014/2014-04-MF-SA-MBS/n-BGwLv/
Hi Lynne. That's great Swinburne has a good reputation in media & Comms. And the course looks interesting, with good options and specialisms. Tell Matthew that it doesn't matter when the offer comes; what counts is that he has the opportunity now. And if he does well but wants a different focus, he can look at moving courses (& unis) on the basis of a successful first year. Yay!
Hi Sue...wanted to let you know...Matthew has received a 2nd round offer for a Bachelor Degree in Media and Communication at Swinburne. We are so very pleased. And relieved, to be honest. Hope you are doing well, I think of you often. Give my love to Jim. Hopefully I will see you soon. xxoo
Hi Lynne. Tell Fran I'm thinking of her. I won't ring this weekend but will ring soon. How are you going with Ruth? A bit of a struggle? Love, Sue
Hi Sue. David is sometimes a bit pushy I find where Mum is concerned. When you and Mum are up to it I will bring her down to see you. She does mention you and ask after you every visit. You are very special to us. She says she has tried to ring, but I think a combination of no hearing aides (she almost never has them in) and not being sure if she is talking to Jim or someone else. If you have an opportunity and feel up to it maybe you could call her. Of course thats assuming she will hear it and answer! Give my love to Jim and know that I think of you always, love Lynne xxoo
Hi Lynne, hope everything is going ok? I had a phone call from David Berry; he said Fran would like to see me and that he could bring her for a visit. But it's not really time for that, even if it were possible for Fran to manage the trip. I've just had the 4th chemo - it was to have been the last but I am getting good results from the treatment and we may opt for one or two more (dammit). I'll have CT scans next Friday and we'll take it from there. The next phase is likely to be participation in a trial of a targeted treatment, with less debilitating side-effects, I hope. Sp please give Fran my love and tell her I hope we'll see each other later in the Spring when the weather is improved too. Love Sue
Art classes? You're pretty talented so go for it. I'm doing well & final chemo on Tues. Good results so far & Jim is optimistic. How is Fran, I do miss seeing her. Maybe in Spring. Xxx love to you all.
Hi Sue. How are you doing? Love to you and Jim! Yep, had to finish work. I am going to Centrelink on Monday. I dropped in there a week ago but was told to wait until I was not employed. There should be no problem, other than being asset tested with Al. Hopefully not to much difference, and I can also claim Carers Allowance, according to the guy from Centrelink. Fingers crossed. Ruth, at this stage, needs minimal help within her house. But she can't walk outside unaided. She has a walker like Mum but as you know our paths and terrain are not great. So, yep, lot's of time to myself! I'll have to start giving serious consideration to what I can do with myself! Fun! Love Lynne xx
Hi Lynne. Lesley said you thinking that you'd be able to access carer's payments. Since you've left Yarraville Hiils, I assume that worked out. I really hope that caring for MIL works out and that you have time for lovely outings, creative hobbies and keeping up with all your friends. Love, Sue
Thanks Sue. Had to buy new phone, old one completely died. Ruth is now in a supported residential facility until her wrist cast comes off in about 3 weeks. Then she will go back to rehab. She is actually doing well now. A bit chesty, but not too bad. Don't know how things will go yet. Hate this uncertainty. But it's much worse for her of course. Think of you every day, love Lynne xxx
Have you still got my phone? 0418 178409. Hope things are beginning to settle with Ruth? Thinking of you, love Sue
Ok xo
Yes that would be lovely & I think Fran would be pleased to see me. We'd work it around chemo cycles so when you have possible times, I'll, see if they work in. Xxx
Ruth is Ruth, but I guess she is trying. She hates being dependant, understandably. She looks so little and frail, which she always has been, but it seems worse, poor old thing! Glad to hear you are ok. Hols in 4 weeks, I would love to come visit then. Maybe bring Mum, if up to it? xx
Oh poor darling. Is Ruth being a good patient & appreciative mother in law? I'm ok thanks. Had such a lovely drop in visit from Margie yesterday too. Xxxx
Hi Sue, ta for message. I never know from one visit to the next what she remembers about you. I was there last night to skype with Pauline. Unfortunately, with Ruth in hosp too I run out of days. I still visit every sunday as well. Ruth I have to visit twice a week, there is no one else to take up the slack, just me and Al. Oh well! How are you doing? xxx
Hi Lynne. Oh dear that doesn't sound good. Poor Ruth. How is she managing? I spoke to Fran last week & she said how much shed enjoyed the party. Good on you. And you must be so proud of Matt? I'll see the oncologist on Wed so news after that. Love Sue
Hi Sue, Sorry I have not been in touch. How are things going? The kitchen is lovely and bright! As you saw from the photos Mum had a lovely afternoon last week. Things are a bit hectic here as Ruth had a fall last week and has broken her wrist and neck of femur. She has had surgery and is now in rehab. Not sure how things will go, its day by day! Sending you lots of love xxx Lynne
Xxoo
Hi Lynne, confusion can be a welcome friend then. I'll ring her on Tuesday to wish her happy birthday. Radiation treatment has relieved the pain and I think I have more energy. We're putting stuff back into our lovely new (but not quite finished) kitchen at Wolfden. David Berry rang me and I asked him to tell Janet. She wrote me a really lovely note. We're doing ok. Heaps of love, Sue
Hi Sue. I saw Mum last week, Tuesday, and gave her the news. We talked about it, but I only told her you were receiving treatment to your pelvis. Didn't mention the other. Unfortunately, or not, when Judy spoke to her on Thursday she now thinks you have broken your hip in a fall. I hope this is a good week for you xxoo
Hi Lynne. It's no big deal & very nice to hear from Pauline & Margie. Just back from radiation therapy & a bit weary. Michael & Tay are coming over for dinner (Thai take away). Love xxx
Hey Sue, glad you are home. Should be lovely at Wolfden this weekend. I was ringing around the other night and when speaking to Margaret Ann she mentioned you. I felt ok to tell her what was happening as you had texted no secret. Hope it is ok cause she convinced me to tell Judy and Pauline! Now David has rung as he spoke to Judy! It's our family version of Days of our Lives! And I started this rolling, I'm so sorry! I hope you have a good weekend and the kitchen goes in easily. Love to you both xxx
Hi Lynne did I reply already? I'm home now, came home yesterday. I've started on radiation therapy but I can handle these daily sessions as an outpatient. The weekends are 'off' and this weekend we'll go up to Wolfden to oversee the installation of our new kitchen. The results of the gene sequencing aren't back yet and it will probably be next week before we know what type of cancer this is and what treatments are available. Who knows, maybe we'll get there for Fran's birthday? In the meantime, I'll send you the card I bought her - it can be returned/changed without any difficulty. all my love, Sue
Hi Sue, thought it would be easier to talk this way. If not I'll go back to phone. Oh my special cousin, I want to give you a hug. xx. Visited Mum today, she mentioned you might be on holiday. I organised to have an afternoon tea for her 95th birthday. On Sat 9th May. I think I will wait til after that to tell her whats happening, maybe. She moved rooms to be closer to the dining room, and is quite happy to be there. Was in lounge today, wide awake! My email is lschrull@bigpond.net.au Our thoughts are with you all, love heaps. Lynne xxoo
I can't view the photo....bugger
here's Anna (looking like an Ayers girl) and Nick.
Wedding and puppy photos!
Hi Vanessa, I'm so pleased that Anna sent through the photos and thanks for your warm message. Sue
Hi sue. Thank you so much for your support today with David. Thou it has been difficult the photos Anna sent through we're much appreciated and David had great pleasure showing off his beautiful family to our friends tonight. Words fail me regarding the situation. Again thanks for your kind words for David. V
Hello, I've started a blog on fabulous vegetarian food (no mung beans I promise!). I'll be writing up recipes and reviews of restaurants and cafes around Sydney. http://kissingthegardener.blogspot.com.au/ It is a little bare right now but I'll be building it up quickly :) Thank you! xxxx
Hi Sue - my first attempt!!!!at facebook. Look forward to chatting
Just in case you think Heidi has been slack to respond to your gift, she will get it tonight. I only see them every fortnight and I forgot last time.
oh yes indeed. Your little Ella seems very tiny but Heidi and she are going well, I take it? Hope you and Pete are going to have a lovely Xmas. have you planned something nice? Michael, Anna, Nick and Jessie will come to us at Wolfden. Right now I'm cleaning out cupboards!
We can now have fun comparing cute granddaughters
Thinking of your happy birthday as we swan around Broken Hill. Hope the celebrations are wild. Love from us.
Sue I gather from Anna on FB that your Mum has finally left us. Love from us and thinking of you. Lins and Pete
Sue and Jim Thanks for your birthday wishes. I am having a wonderful birthday weekend. Yesterday we were taken to lunch by my brother, Graeme, and Marilu, in Pyrmont (and also Lynne Williams of NIDA). Last night we ate and stayed at the Menzies (food not exciting) and then went to the Sydney Theatre‘s presentation of an all-male Pirates of Penzance. This was a brilliant piece of theatre – loads of fun and, of course, good to look at. Pete and I then drank champagne and ate a cheese platter (room service) back at the hotel until 1am. This morning we visited Rod and Margot at Birchgrove and had some fun time with the girls, Femke and Lotte. Then Pete and I had brunch in Balmain, before going on a shopping spree at Penrith. We bought two new rugs, one for the foyer and a fantastic turquoise chair and footstool, also for the foyer. Tonight our wonderful neighbours, Wayne and Julia, have invited us for a birthday dinner at their place. I will need to go back to work tomorrow to settle down (and also to pay for today’s purchases). Love Lins
lovely photo darling
Stunning
This is our sneaky peak photo - I love it!!
www.stylemyday.com.au is our webpage!
http://www.facebook.com/stylemydayTAS
Hi Sue! I tried to reply when you sent this but my internet was playing up! And it just popped back in my head! Style My Day is my new business!! We are hiring wedding decor! Got 3 weddings booked so far for next season but hoping people aren't getting themselves quite organised yet - hopefully more to come. Hope you and your family are well and happy! nina
Hi Nina I was chatting to Judy at Auntie Fran's afternoon tea yesterday. She mentioned your new business and said it was on FB. But I've forgotten the name. Love to look it up so can you pls let me know? Thx Sue
Thanks Sue. I'll have a look :)
Hi Katie; great to chat today at Pauline's. The Bruno Chief of Police link is http://www.brunochiefofpolice.com. I enjoyed these crime novels.. Cheers Sue
Great to hear. My back if fine now still off work for another 3 weeks.I head back to Melbourne on the 11th august to see my surgions and to get the all clear.Love Bec.
Hi Bec, many thanks. I had chemo on Tuesday and so far, so good. Anna is over today and we're just hanging out. How is your back now? Love, Sue
Hi Sue How are you going with your treatment.Thinking of you everyday.💜💜
Hi Sue Hope you and your family are all going good. Lots of love bec.xxoo
Nice to have your loving family here
Yer sal and Matilda caught the train down today and are staying at my sisters house in st kilda.They will be heading home tomorrow as sal needs to work on monday but they will be down again during the week.Glad you are ok.xxoo
Hi Bec. Well at least you're moving forwards. I'm not too bad, better than last time, touch wood. Is Sal down? I'll be thinking of you, loving you to bits!
Hi Sue Lastest update.I had to get flown down to Melbourne last night as nothing was gelping with the pain in my back.I am staying at St Vincent's Hospital and having surgery on monday.Hope you are feeling the best you can Love Bec.xxxoo
Thats fantastic news. Great to hear all is going to schedule. Take care. Love from the girls
Hi Bec. Well that's something. Hope you're feeling better soon. My 2nd chemo went well, much quicker today & no side effects kicked in yet - they will but maybe take a day or 2. My blood test showed a 40%+ drop in tumor markers from the first chemo, so that's really good. Feeling a bit optimistic. Jim's a happy puppy. Love from us both.
Hi Sue I'm in a fair bit of pain just got a cattherder put back in for the second time to ease the pain off my back.Meeting tomorrow once again with the pain management team.Next step is to get steroid injections into my back. Enough of me how are you going?Loads of love Bec.xxoo
Hi Bec. I hate it that you are in such trouble. And I'm concerned that you are in such pain.. Is the pain management not adequate? Can't the nurses give you more effective medication? Of course walking unaided requires a solution to your back, I get that. I'm still using the walking frame too. All our love, jim & Sue. Ps what beautiful teeth you have!
Good idea in principal, but I'll be pretty ill that weekend from my chemo on Tues 16th. Cross fingers for Sal. Xxx
We are heading down on the 19th July until the 21st as sal has to have some more tests and to see if the cancer has gone.Haha can see our camper set up on Willy beach.
Ps hope Sal is doing well now though?
You are welcome to pop down for look-see! You wouldn't even have to camp, though that could be an attraction? Healesville, just a couple of hours away? Xxx
Yer Sal had tough weeks always after her chemo days.Cooking is my happy place.Your new kitchen looks amazing by the way.xxxoo
Hi Bec, thanks & I'm feeling pretty good this week. Did Sal have the same pattern (one rotten week, 2 good weeks, then start again?) Loved seeing your amazing Indian meal on fb. xxxx
Hi Sue Hope you are not to sick we are all thinking about you.
Hi Bec and Sal, many thanks. Had a couple of ok days followed by 3-4 God-awful days. Hopefully I'm coming through it now. Love, Sue
Hi Sue We are all thinking about you for tomorrow.Lots of love the Albury girls.xxoo
Hi Bec and Sal, got through today fine, thanks for your care. 3 hours of infusions (i.e. three medications through the drip); I watched the movie St Vincent, which was great, loved it. So we'll see how I feel tomorrow but so far, just weary now. Heaps of love Sue
Sending our love to you and Jim.
Hi Bec. Thanks for your warm message and 'good luck message. Also thanks to Sal for her lovely note. Nice to see your camping photos. I bet Sal didn't know about camping when she agreed to learn to ride the bike? Much love, Sue
Good luck tomorrow sue you are always in my thoughts.xxoo
Hi sue I am totally heart broken and shocked to hear this news.Words not no express my sadness at this point.
Hi Bec and Sal, just letting you know my rotten news. About 5 weeks ago I was diagnosed with lung cancer, with a secondary bone to our in my pelvis. I'Ve had radiation treatment for the bone and it's reduced pain and improved strength. I am using a walking frame & it may improve further yet. I start chemo on Tuesday. Narelle & Tim dropped by yesterday and we thought you'd want to know. Also, what about your back - and how is Sal? Much love, Sue
Hi Bec. Many thanks for coming. It was lovely to see you all & we loved playing with Matilda. Hope Sal goes well in treatment. Catch up again while you're down if you have time. Love, Sue
Thanks for the catch up was great to see you and Jim.Hope you have a great weekend. Xxoo
Will do
Cool
well come now if you're ready - I have fruit cake and cherries so we won't starve!
Just at the Williamstown botanical gardens so any time
you mean 1/2 hour or an hour?
Fantastic see you shortly.
Hi Bec we're home now - I'll just zap down the street for some 'nibbles'. Whenever suits you? 156 Cecil St, in case you've forgotten Same mobile no 0418178409. Looking forward to seeing you
Hi sue what time would be best to see you . Cheers Bec?
Great - whenever you're ready then.
More than happy to come to your place. Xxoo
Hi Bec Narelle & Tim may be tied up but I'll be delighted - might even bring Jim along. Where would suit you (welcome to come here but make it convenient for you and Sal. xx
Thats fine. Sal doesn't have treatment until 3pm that day . Would love to see you all.xxoo
Hi Bec, we have a funeral in the morning, but how about the afternoon? I'll also see if Narelle and Tim will be around, shall I? We can meet up wherever works best for you. xxx
Morning Sue Hope you are well. We are all free for a catch up on Friday if you are free. Xxoo
Hi Bec, thanks for your greeting. And yes I've been watching your fb entries with concern and love. Love to see you when you're down - and Narelle & I discussed a possible dinner one night when they don't have the kids. Apart from that, lunches etc are ON - your 'baby' has grown up and she's marvellous! I'm rushing off now but more later. You must let me know if there's anything I can do to make it all a bit easier. I'm good for babysitting duties btw. Love Sue
Morning Sue Looks like you had a fantastic birthday Your grand daughter is so adorable. We received some bad news last month. Sal was diagnosed with cervical cancer a shock to us both. We will be heading to Melbourne next Monday as all Sals treatment will be done at Peter Mac cancer Center. She will be down in Melbourne for 5 weeks. I would love to catch up with you when we are in Melbourne. Love Bec . xxxoo
Hi Bec, thanks for your note. Narelle's birthday was on Saturday, but I think you've already spoken to her? Gym's going well thx. Love to see you and Matilda soon - come and have lunch one day? Sue xx
Hi Sue Hope you and Jim are well. We are all good Matilda is growing bigger each day almost 7 months old. How is your Gym training going? I havnt heard from Narelle since her wedding tried texting but didnt hear back.If you see her say hi from me. Cheers Bec.xxoo
Laurel is a beautiful name, Sally. And you seem very at home in India even if the paperwork moves slowly!
yes she's generally a contented baby we named her Laurel, which has a similar meaning to 'Rigzin', but we're still waiting for her birth certificate: 3rd attempt last week with the paperwork. India is sometimes very frustrating
She's growing up very quickly and looks so happy and contented Sally. (Hope that's true?) did you name her as well as her star? Say hi to Angdu from us; feels like we're getting to know him!
Hello dear Sue and Jim , hope you are having a good weekend. Its properly warm here today ... and Bonds wins the day again! She's comfortable and watching Angdu making roti
thank you Sue ☺
☺☺☺
Thanks Sally. She's really a gorgeous baby. Jim will love this photo. Xxxx
=D =D
hugs from India
I joined you to our private photo gallery where we occasionally post photo updates (internet speed permitting)
thankyou so much! :D
we LOVE the bond suits!
"Hmm, shall I wear the pink spots or the orange shortie next?"
Yes, I can be flexible although we have an osteo appointment in east Melbourne which will go until 12pm and I have to be back in east Melbourne by 5pm (and potentially deal with a screaming baby if she's stuck in traffic too long lol!). I was really sad to read Narelles post as well. She sounds so amazingly strong - I can only imagine what you are all going through and send all my love xx It will be lovely to catch up, but if this week seems to difficult just let us know and we can move it to another time xoxo
Thanks Sue. I am used to the dri ing!
Hi Jillian, yes I read Narelle's fb entry with great concern. She has such incredible courage and grace. Please give her my love. Lunch - city works of course, and easy for Anna and Jessie as it's not too far. However it's a long way for you to drive from the Dandenongs. Let's work it out as the week unfolds? I'll be thinking about you and your family this week. xxx
Hi Sue and Anna, You saw Narelle's post and so will understand that I have been a bit discombobulated. Lorraine and I would still like to meet baby Jessie and you both on Thursday for lunch or coffee - whatever you can manage. As to where I will be - that is still a mystery. If Narelle goes home from hospital I will go with her and Lorraine will be still here in Brighton, and have to meet us using public transport, so maybe the city is the best place as that will be the easiest for her to get to and I can drive to wherever. Rho and the boys and I are off to the hospital shortly. Narelle is looking better. Having an ultrasound on her leg today.
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hi
how are you doing?
Hello
Hello
Good I am glad!
they were delighted with the books, great choices Kate.
Thanks Sue!
Hi Kate, the card arrived today and I'll pass on the present tomorrow. They're home now and I think it will be a perfect time to receive your lovely books. Sue
I think Anna would like that, and it's bond to come today Kate. They are going home this morning.xxx
I should have sent the card earlier!! I suppose you should wait for the card and give it as a complete gift. Thanks
Hi Kate, the card di not arrive today but I think Anna and Nick will be very happy to have your present on Monday - unless you want me to give it to them tomorrow? Sue xx
Congratulations Grandma Sue!! Just letting you know that I posted a card last night so hopefully it gets there tomorrow. Thanks again for your help. Kate x
yep I agree
Yes I was deciding if i should send one to you to put with the gift or send it to her after she has the baby, but i think i will send it to you to put with the gift.
ok, I'll do that. You could send a card if you like?
That would be great! Thank you! I am happy that they arrived before the baby!
Hi Kate 4 packages have arrived (I meant to tell you earlier, sorry). Do you want me to wrap them into a single present?
Sounds lovely! I will order the books this weekend and send them to your place. Thankyou!
absolutely - books sound great, I know Anna will love them. And I made a little crib quilt out of the cotton scraps from the wedding quilt. So I was able to use up all the fabrics scraps you send me (all the dragonflies and wine the pooh bits)
Hi Sue! How are you? I have been thinking about what I can get fir Annie's bub and I thought I may get her some nice story books. Would you mind if I get them delivered to your place, so that you can take them to her when she has the baby?
Hi Sue, happy feasting seasoning greetings! I hope that your life in melbourne is going well. I thought you might be interested in the Renew Australia Artist Run Initiative that I will be the third person to define/project manage in Nowra as of 1st Februrary 2015. Exciting times and some arts/culture hub plans in place that will hopefully step up the activities at the site. It is wonderful to be able to benefit from the past two versions of this site as well as the established relationships with arts organizations, local creative folk etc. Jillian :-)
No worries x
Hi Jillian, sorry missed this note. Thanks for your good wishes for baby Jessie and all. Sue
That is so exciting and yes David and I are still in touch as well as Sandy. Apologies about the hyperactive kissing cat animation.... Experiments without reading glasses can sometimes appear a tad strange. I wish for a healthy and positive experience for bub and mum and now grand mum x
Hi Jillian, oh sorry I didn't see this note; I'm not a fb expert really. You seem to be very busy and doing amazing work. We'll be friends and that will be so nice. I've also found Campion Decent, David Chisholm and Julienne van Loon, as well as Sandy, and I find the pleasure I'm getting from this contact quite surprising, in a nice way. The next immanent phase of my life is as a grandmother. My daughter's baby is due today! Warm regards, Sue
Hi Sue, yes on both accounts. I hope I was not being too forward, just have to say when I saw your name I got a little excited. I have always remembered your teaching at UOW. I am based in Randwick and also do work around the Shoalhaven music teaching and music director stuff. A mix of supporting aging family and the joy of teaching brass. Musicology and music in community gigs come along occassionally. Also starting in on a project about everyday occupational wellbeing through music skills aquisition, focus on older students. I hope that you are having a grand time in this next phase of your life Jx
Hi Jillian - thx for your friend invitation; sorry to ask, but have we known each other - at Wollongong or through Sandy? Sue
Hi Campion. Confidentially, I'm contributing to nomination for Pete Shepherd as UOW Fellow. I'm going to write about stellar achievements of graduates. Obviously I want to include you! Any guidance on what I should say? Know anyone else - eg Scott Berry, he' s one of us, isn't he? I can follow up Julienne, David Chisholm, Van, sandy O'Sullivan. But other suggestions welcomed with open arms.. Ps I enjoy your fb posts, thanks. Warmest, Sue
Yes indeed I will be your lucky third, Campion. I'll be thinking of you in the final stage of your PhD too. Sue xxx
So very sorry to hear this. You are the third I hold dear to be fighting the dreaded C this year. My partner's mother and Tracy Mann. Both out the other side and on the mend, so you will be the lucky third. Lots of love and 'strength' vibes and, yes, when you feel like it, a coffee or something stronger later in the year would be grand, Campion xx
Hi Campion. I've been meaning to catch up to let you know that I have been in treatment for lung cancer. Only discovered it in April when I was have trouble from a secondary tumor in my pelvis. I've had radiation & am up to my 4th & last chemo treatment this week. Getting positive results, so optimistic, within reason. Love reading your fb posts. Hopefully we'll catch up for coffee later in the year? Love, Sue
perfect - this time we can put it towards gin or something like that?
Thanks for the catch-up. There's still $5 in our share kitty for when the season changes ... :)
Oh, sorry to be so slow to reply, Sue. I'm avoiding Facebook in favour of trying to get some work done(!) How about lunch on Friday of next week? We could meet at the cafe at the children's farm at Abbotsford convent if the weather is good, or else at a cafe called Proud Mary at Collingwood (corner of Stanley and Oxford) if the weather is not so good. Best to text me on my mobile 0438948337 for a quicker response. Congratulations on the new grandchild!
Oh good Julienne. Next week any day but Wed; the following week is all ok. Happy to come over your way - I'll leave it to you to suggest somewhere nice. I come over many times a week as my daughter's baby is just 6 weeks old. They live in Abbotsford.
I'm good most weekdays for lunch, and I'm in Clifton Hill, so the city or inner north would be great for me.
Hi Sue
Hi Julienne - China trip sounds interesting and long. And of course, I'd love to meet up; lunch yes! I live in Williamstown but I can come over your way - oh, wherever that is. When suits you?
HI Sue. I'm sorry I missed you at the UoW alumni event last month. I intended to come along but it turned out to be my last week in town before six weeks in China and so the week filled up with pre-overseas craziness. Where are you living these days? Would you like to meet for lunch sometime?
This is a hoax - the aim is to get everyone to send it to their friends so everyone gets spammed with it over and over and over...
Please tell all the contacts in your messenger list not to accept Jayden K. Smith friendship request. He is a hacker and has the system connected to your Facebook account. If one of your contacts accepts it, you will also be hacked, so make sure that all your friends know it. Thanks. Forwarded as received. Hold your finger down on the message. At the bottom in the middle it will say forward. Hit that then click on the names of those in your list and it will send to them
Yes we love our Tuesday's - Jessie is developing so quickly and it is so interesting to see the changes every week- just lots of fun. So pleased for you and Jim that Wednesday's are working out well - she is just so precious ! We are off to Qld - friends have a house on the golf course at Sanctuary Cove and it is our regular Easter destination. Still no golf for me but making progress Talk soon x
Hi Kaye. Yes let's get together after the cruise and your trip. Where are you off to? Time has flown, hasn't it? We're thrilled that we've been able to take up some childcare opportunities at last. What a fabulous job you and Ron have done with your Tuesday minding. And how much fun is it? Love Sue
Hello again Sue After chatting to Anna last week we decided it would be better to postpone our dinner for a while - not ideal eating out for you at the moment and we are heading away this week for 8 days. I will contact you after Easter and we can make a date maybe even after your cruise. Love Kaye 💝 We are heading away again Wednesd
Great!
Hi Sue yes a lovely time celebrating Anna's birthday - I think we have wonderful children and it is great to all be together. Hope nails turn out well - will call you over the next couple of days and we will organise dinner. Love Kaye 💝
Hi
Hi Kaye. Lovely to see you on Sunday. Terrific restaurant, was't it? Thanks for your advice on nails; I've made an appointment for Friday. Good idea for us to get together over a meal too - jim will be pleased to talk about how successful his new hearing devices are. They've really transformed his engagement with others & especially enabled him to be involved in conversations in noisy situations. He says they also help with tinnitus. When suits you? Let's see if we can find a time - not Monday or Thursday nights for us..cheers Sue
Hi amaze. It's great to see ron's epic ride in pics on fb. When is he back? Xx
Thanks Sue its just a nuisance - can't drive and of course Ron is away. Just have to be patient and all will be good. Anna mentioned you may be starting new medication soon - wishing you all the best- I hope the results are very positive love Kaye 💝 Ps it was very nice to have a lovely family lunch at Wolfden - thankyou and Jim too.
Hi Kaye. So sorry to hear about your broken foot (& should have said so a week ago at least, sorry). Is it beginning to mend? Nick said you're trapped in a boot! Best wishes, Sue
Definitely when the time is right for you and of course when I'm healthy again x
I'd love to see you Kaye. Let's find a time when you are well & I'm in the good part of the chemo cycle. Jim & I have written an 'update' for friends and family, hopefully emailing it tonight.
Thankyou Sue - a very stubborn virus indeed! We think of you everyday and if there is the smallest thing we could do to help either you or Jim please let us know or pass it on via Anna. I absolutely understand visitors are very hard work when you are so exhausted but just know we are family and we are there not only for Anna Nick and Jessie but for you too, love Kaye x
Hi Kaye, I'm so sorry to hear that you are ill and in such discomfort and pain. Nick and Anna were up at Wolfden over the weekend and then I remembered that they'd told me earlier but it must have been when I was pretty fatigued and didn't really take it in. I hope you are seeing some relief and improvement? Best wishes Sue
Hi Sue have a great birthday love Kaye and Ron x
Ta
lesley@mcnaughty.com
Lunch around 12.30. But here's a plan - if nothing better comes up - you could stay over for a night. Friday night, before Anna etc come up (on Sat am) or Sat night when they are here. There's a bedroom free and it would be lovely if you wanted to come. Or just come for lunch, whatever you like! Xxx
Anytime ok. I'll check with anna but I think Jessie eats early-ish. Back later. Good abt WW. I've made an appointment to see a physio on Monday. That's my start on exercise plan. Cross fingers. Will Bern do the fence? You could have a 'fencing B', get help.xx
Good plans always help. Bern is pleased I think but of course now it's all about fences so more decisions about where to put them etc... Will all be good. Went back to WW last night.. Not as bad as I thought so on the straight and narrow again! Bit boring really. C u Saturday. What time ?
Very quick work there! No sooner did we talk about this puppy than you have it sorted out. Is Bern pleased now? Obviously we should make heaps of plans since we're so good at it. Xxx
Ok talk soon xx
Jim had to cancel his Japan trip, would have flown out tomorrow. "Im his top priority." Also November is Good Food Month so we should have a nice lunch in Fitzroy.
That's a good idea I will ring you when we get back from Tassie. When is Jim away?
Or come home. There's an excellent clothes shop here in Willy that you'd like, I think
Sounds great. Anna lives very near there but she works on Mondays. But we could go there for 'time out'. Let's pencil in 9th for starters. It depends how the re-start of the Trial goes! Whether we should aim for earlier. I'm not a mega-shopper but I do like the Gertrude St designers. Xxx
That's a good idea...he is there usually from 8.30am till about 2 or 3pm... A long day so I can play for a while. Yesterday I went to visit a friend in Kilmore for lunch while he was in... When I was working I would drop him off and go to work for the day and then come back when he was ready... Or go shopping for the day, he doesn't need me there. His next one is Monday 9th November, quite a long way away... We could do earlier, like you said that's retirement.!
.. and is Bern in treatment for a while, when yo can slip out for coffee or G&T? Give me dates and times and I'll keep them clear and aim to be well!
Yes Fitzroy x
If I am well we can meet up in Gertrude St. I know bars & shops! Assuming Bern goes to Vinnies in Victoria St?
Hi, address is 36 Fairway Rd Emerald. Just home from Berns visit to St Vinnies for his infusion. I don't think there has been much change in Bern for quite awhile. Not sure if the Drs really know what will happen, if he will continue as he is doing, get better or worse! Love to catch up, am in town every 6 wks when Bern has his treatment so would love to meet then...love a independent matter! Or sooner. Off to see Judy on Wednesday for a week. xx
Thanks for that - can you re-send your home address pls as I deleted it from my Fran contact entry. And which email - back to bigpond.com? Anyway, Im ok now. How is Bern going - is there progression, do you think? Is there a firm diagnosis that convinces you? If you ever come to the city,let's grab coffee or lunch and really natter? What's retirement for? xxx
So sorry to hear that Sue, how awful for you. We were really pleased to see you and Jim and enjoyed lunch with you. Our home number is the same which is good as it helps Bern remember! 59686319.. My mob is 0427678244. Hope you are feeling better now xx Pauline
Hi Pauline. Guess what? After our lovely lunch (though Elevation food has gone downhill), the side effects kicked in. I was really ill till Thursday when I went to Emergency with severe, kidney-damaging dehydration from diarrhea & vomiting, plus dreadful fatigue. Stayed there till Sunday, on drip till Saturday. I'll probably go back on the medication after renegotiating medical monitoring & dosage. Lucky we got to meet up, and with Fran, before all this. Lovely seeing you & Bern & I'm pleased that you'll take my quilt triangles. Ps can you pls resend current contact details? Love, Sue
Uh-oh. We may need to be home a bit earlier on Sunday, not sure yet. I've arranged removal it's to take a chair up to my friend in NSW. They'll tell us on Friday when they'll collect the chair but it could be Sunday 'after 5pm'. So we could change to Saturday lunch - or make Sunday early in case we need to leave around 3.30 ish. Just add to the mix; we can discuss by phone. Xxx
Or we could take her to Elevation, same as before all this? Yes chat through the week. Xxx
I will ring you this week and decide what's best. Mum really looking forward to seeing you, me to.... Think she may get a little confused coming here tho.. Asked me this week if we were in the bungalow! Anyway whatever is best for you... Talk soon xx
Hi Pauline, just thinking - we could come over to you if that was better for Fran? Either place is fine, just very happy that we'll see you next Sunday (or Saturday ok too) love, Sue
Hi Pauline. Thanks for your note. Chemo is not for sissies, that's for sure. It was so lovely of Margie to drop by, especially with Michael also home. I had 2 quite good days post-chemo (Wed & Thurs) so I was able to enjoy her visit. Since then a few rotten days but hopefully it will ease off this week. I am pumped full of toxins after all! Your trip still looks amazing, love to you both, Sue
Hi Sue, just wondering how you are? Margie said she had been to visit you... Hope that all is going as well as possible for you xxxx
Hi Pauline, many thanks for your message, lovely to hear from you. I'm home now, came home yesterday. I've started on radiation therapy but I can handle these daily sessions as an outpatient. The weekends are 'off' and this weekend we'll go up to Wolfden to oversee the installation of our new kitchen. The results of the gene sequencing aren't back yet and it will probably be next week before we know what type of cancer this is and what treatments are available. It looks like you are having a wonderful trip and that you have arranged for Bern's treatments without too much trauma now. Are I also hope your health is holding out okay? Much love for now, Sue
Hi Sue, I have just had an email from Lynne telling me about your cancer. I am really sorry to hear that you are so unwell and all our thoughts are with you. I wish I was there to help you. I am sure you are well supported but just wish I was there... Thinking of you xxx Pauline
Hi Pauline many thanks and have a fabulous time! love Sue
Hi Sue I have set up a gmail account for the UK. birtledean44@gmail.com... Hope I've set it up the right way... xxx Pauline
Happy Birthday Sue, enjoy your day xxx
Oh Sue, I'm beyond sorry about you being sick and getting this rotten diagnosis. It's really bloody unfair and I hear you on it being an entirely boring job to have to take on, but I'm also glad you're able to think about it that way. There has been so much success from that era of Creative Arts and for a really good reason - arts training, sure, but it was an amazing grounding in thinking about the world. I wouldn't be an academic, and I wouldn't have considered continuing on at uni if it weren't for the staff in Creative Arts... and I'd be a lot less invested in collaboration. I'm fingers crossed for Peter with it, but with all of you and a solid evidentiary trail, they'd be nuts not to bend over backwards to appoint him. xx
Hi Sandy. Oh am I proud of you? Not many people should say that, I guess, but I think I can! Fabulous achievement. Yes and I still like seeing UOW folk. We're friends with Barry & Deb Conyngham. And I've hooked up with Julienne and Campion, mostly through fb I admit. I was diagnosed with cancer in April last year, so managing that is pretty much like a career, but a very tedious one. I'm rather enjoying doing the nomination for Pete, but we'll get Amanda & Barry to sign it. So I can do a letter of support & mention of us SCA graduates. Fun, eh? I think he'll be very chuffed as UOW hasn't really given him the recognition he deserves (Sharon Bell effect), the Centre sounds fabulous, good luck with it. Warmest, Sue
Hi Sue. That's wonderful... Peter so deserves it... and lucky Wollongong! Nah, I'm still at Batchelor, we've just started a new Centre - which at the moment is called Centre for Indigenous Research Collaboration, but (off the record) after a planning session here in Darwin today I'm reckon I'll propose a name change. Not sure what to yet, but likely using First Nations in place of Indigenous. I'm Assoc Prof in terms of academic level, but I'm hoping to get away with just using 'Director' since the whole thing becomes less tricky when we're dealing with some of our international partners (another reason for the change to First Nations). My CV is woefully out of date, I think my current online is missing about 9/10ths of my research publications for instance, but I'm hoping to get an updated one ready by Monday or Tuesday as we have some stuff to put in there. Some of it does that simple showcase stuff, in case it's helpful. Main points are probably couple of ARCs, OLT Fellowship and Extension, 15 OLTs, and a bunch of boring and not-so-boring pubs. My PhD is in art, and I'm thankfully an Associate with FIRE (Forum for Indigenous Research Excellence) at UOW... and get to visit there often to participate in bits and pieces Bronwyn Carlson and her colleagues are up to. Daggy as it sounds, it always gives me that tingly feeling being in Wollongong. xx
Hi Sandy. I must have missed it - have you left Batchelor? What are you doing now? Btw & confidentiality: I'm contributing to a nomination for Peter Shepherd as a UOW Fellow. I'm going to write about the stellar achievements of SCA graduates, including you! Warmest, Sue
Thanks again for last night, Sue... really appreciate it. It's been lovely hearing tributes over Facebook. Hope you're travelling okay.
do that
No... but I think she told me. Yeah it sure is... but it's lovely to remember her too, just, you know, a tiny bit too soon. I'm just down in Hobart at the moment with work, so I'm thinking it might be nice to go out for a walk along the pier and just have a think.
I opened her exhibition last year, did I tell you that? Sad night
Oh no, I'm so sorry... it's all terribly heartbreaking. She really was always a wonderful person, I was just chatting with her a few weeks ago about a project we'd worked on years ago... it was one of those times that was mostly bad art, but a hoot. xx Lordy, some more crying... I have a feeling I'm not alone tonight.
Yes, she was a wonderful person and terrific artist. You know she used to babysit my kids and Jillian was a really close friend. We've also reconnected over the last year. I drove up today with Anna, my daughter, and her baby but Narelle ran out of time. xxx
Oh Sue... I did miss it. Thanks for telling me. I'm really grateful that I found you too... heavens... okay time for a bit of a cry. Yep, thinking of you too. xx Sandy
Hi Sandy, just in case you missed Jillian's fb note, I wanted to tell you that Narelle died today. Very sad - and Im so grateful that I found you (and Julienne) through Narelle's fb friends. So of course Im thinking of you today. Love Sue
Hey Sue. Can you do me a favor and friend request Adam TIA https://www.facebook.com/adam.pitt.33
Hi, thank you so much for the lovely outfit, I really appreciated it. Thanks Ali
Hi Sue. Pauline and I really had a lovely time also. Thank you again for the lovely black jacket and it is going to travel with me for sure. Hope you have a lovely weekend and we will catch up when I get back. Lots of love hugs and kisses Margie xxx
Hi Margie. Thank you so much for coming yesterday. I loved it! In case it's not obvious, I really only have tears for good things (you know, altruism, good deeds, being happy etc). I think I'll take Pauline up on her offer to stay when Jim goes skiing. I thought we could do a 'photo project' & compile the Nobelius archive & get it onto the digital frame. Actually I thought she seemed a bit down? Hopefully the 'retail therapy' was helpful. She said Bern liked the green coat & the almond croissant was welcome. Did you get home late & tired? I guess now you & Ken will be in full preparation mode now. Love, Sue
Great. What fun
Hi Sue. Don't go to too much trouble but either of the two you suggested would be good we should be there by 12 md. Pauline is going to the doctor with Bern and will be at her place when I get there at 10.30am. Looking forward to seeing you again I think I found another one of your Books so will bring that with me. Love Margie xxx
Hi Margie. Just thinking about lunch on Thursday. Do you like corned beef or chicken schnitzel? Or any other preferences - I don't really know what to offer but it's easiest if I We can prepare! Looking forward to seeing you. Love
That's great we will see you for lunch on the 14th. Looking forward to it. 😘😘
My mistake - Thursday 14 will be fabulous.
Oops I suggested the 14 th and you have said the 24th ?????
Fantastic and not a lot of trouble at all. We look forward to spending time with you and Jim. Xxxxx
Hi Margie. Thanks - I emailed you & Pauline earlier but yours bounced! Anyway, yes Thirs 24 July sounds great. It's a lot of trouble & so lovely. Lunch sounds great too - Jim & I can sort that out easily. Infusion is on 12 th but I seem to be ok with that. Love Sue
Hi Sue. I hope you are doing okay and the treatment isn't knocking you about too much. I was wondering if you would be up for a couple of visitors on Thursday 14th July, if you are Pauline and I would love to come and see you. As I am not sure about your treatment days and of course how you will be feeling, so maybe a bit closer to the day you would be able to let us know. Love Margie xx
How amazing that you have these clippings Margie! What else have you got in your back cupboards? Ps I made the clothes in both pics! Love Sue
So Sue that was for Anna as I sent her the photos also. Nothing that I haven't said to you darling cousin xxxxx
I had a brief visit with mum and dad last Thursday. It was lovely to see them. Mum is a strong and resilient woman a very brave lady. Fingers crossed for the next lot of treatment. I plan to visit again with Pauline in the near future. Ken and I are going to the UK on the 27 th July for 5 weeks so want to catch up before we go. Hope you are all well your little princess is growing up fast xxxx
Look what I found
😎 Hey lady, ...had to do it. I Nominate you for the Most loving and prettiest Mum Award. You must send to 15 mums and make their day. I'm also waiting! Sometimes u just need to hear it ... You're a beautiful mom, doing a great job and you're so loved! Just hold your finger on it and it should say forward.
Hi Sue. I was hoping about 11.30am. Sorry the treatment is being so harsh but a short hello would be lovely.😘
Hi Margie. Just checking on your plans for Thursday? What time might you come through? The radiation treatment has knocked me really, with extreme fatigue. But short hello, perfect. If it still works for you? Xxx
Hi Margie. Yes I'd love you to drop by on Thursday, be lovely to see you. I might still be a bit under the weather as I'm having radiation treatment but hopefully I'll be on the up by then. I expect to start a new infusion chemo on Tues. so there a a few unknowns. Do Maddie & Cohen live in Rosedale too? Fab that you're seeing all the family. We're expecting our crew soonish. Heaps of love, Sue
Hi Sue. Thank you for the congratulations. Cohen is a gorgeous little man. His big sister Maddie is over the moon. That is a big change from during the pregnancy which was expected. I am heading to Geelong next week oh Thursday and thought I could drop the books off to you if you are home. How often are you having the radiation treatment, if you are not home I will post them. Is that to the Williamstown address. I will be heading back on the Friday as I am working on the weekend. We had Chris and Kerry down last weekend and heard all the Ireland stories and now have some contacts for when we are there. Noel and Jan stayed on Thursday night on their way to Merimbula for a couple of weeks and leaving their little old dog with us to look after. Saima and Jon are coming down today for the weekend and to catch up with the new addition to the family. Apart from the weather it should be a lovely time. Glad that you will get cuddles from your gorgeous Jesse. She is growing up very quickly and such a little beauty from FB photos she looks like a lot of fun. Lots of love Margie xxxx
Hi Margie. Congratulations to you both on the birth of your little grandson - such a lovely photo too. Your quilt adventures sound fun too; nice to do it with friends. If you do get the time to drop my Japanese books in parcel post (the best & least expensive) way to post books), that would be great. The radiation treatment right now is debilitating but these are side effects and should go away. Anna, Nick & Jessie are coming up here (Wolfden) for the weekend so that will be so much fun & cuddles! Love, Sue
Hi Margie. Many tHanks. Your quilts sound great. Actually I'm about to have some radiation treatment and then I'll go onto a new drug in June. Saga is endless and rather tedious, as you know. Yes, we love minding Jessie on Wednesdays - Anna works from upstairs and Jim and I care for Jessie & give her lunch and dinner (Anna too for dinner). She's totally gorgeous and we loves watching her develop language & other skills. Hope you enjoy your trip. Love.
Hi Sue. I am not using the books so I will get them back to you so your friend can. I picked up a really good book on sashimi at the quilt show earlier this year and have a fabulous quilt to make as they had a kit. My friend also bought one of the kits and it will be a little project for us to do together. I will show you when it finished. I have just finished a very colourful baby quilt for our next grandchild you will be born on 8th June by C section. It is a little boy. Kens daughter Stacey is having him it's their second with a 13 year gap. They thought it would never happen so it is very exciting. Now I am waiting for Saima and Jon to get into action as Saima is now 35yr. Wasn't it exciting that Leslie and Chris were at the 1916 Tralee celebration. Chris and Kerry are coming down next weekend to tell us all about it. Ken and I are heading over to the UK on 28 th July for 5 weeks. My first time there but Ken has been before. Very excited about it. I hope Anna and Saima spend more time together they seem to get on really well and enjoy each other's company. How are you keeping these days you look like you have lost a bit of weight but you look well and happy in your photos on FB. You must be really enjoying your time with Jess. I love the photos I love seeing how they develop skills it's great. Lots of love Margie xxx
Hi Margie I'm just wondering how your quilting is coming along? Are you using the Susan Briscoe books on Japanese blocks (I think I sent them to you, didn't it?). If you're not using them, I have a friend who'd like to see them. Of course, if you need them, hug onto them by all means. And how are you both? Isn't it lovely that Anna, Saima and Jon saw Heathers together? love xxx
Hi Sue. Just to let you know I received your parcel today I look forward to looking through them. Xxxxx
Looking forward to that. Take care xxxxxx
Yes we're at Healesville, very snug. Jim has put together the cot because next weekend we have our friends from Perth plus Anna, Nick & Jessie and Michael & Tay. We don't need to do anything in advance though. And yes thx I'm feeling pretty well now, a bit weary. Do come here sometime, maybe in Spring when it will be lovely. I'd love that.
Hi Sue. That's lovely of you, I was just thinking of you early and wondering how you are feeling this week? Are you up at Healsville this weekend? Yes the address is still the same 21 Lyons Street Rosedale. 3847 Hugs and kisses to you. Margie. Xxxx
Still 21 Lyons St, Rosedale?
Hi Margie. I'm going to send you a couple of books on Japan quilting & they can all come home when you're ready. No hurry because I'm not using them at this point. Might as well have a country holiday. Xxx
Hi Sue, that sounds great look forward to doing so. Love Margie xx
Hi Margie. Well you'll just have to drop by because I have other books to foist on you! Love, Sue
Hi Sue, I am sorry that you haven't been well with the Chemo. I did very much enjoy my visit with you and Mick. I loved our family conversations as I think it is good to Hear about aspects of family that we haven't heard before. My trip to Geelong was good the short cut was helpful. Saima and Jon are both good . Saw the lovely photos that Anna put on FB the other day. Jessie is such a cutie just like her nanny. Did you find out the results from the drug trial from the USA yet? Hope to see you again in near future so I can return you book which by the way is fabulous and has given me some ideas for my next project. Take care. Love Margie xx
Hi Margie. I meant to write earlier to thank you for the visit & thoughtful gift. But I've had a few pretty sick days so put it off. I think I'm coming up now, cross fingers. It was lovely of you to drop by and I really enjoy chatting, plus your quilt project is terrific. So thanks again - hope you got to Geelong in easy time? Love Sue
... and no, I don't think I can get to Fran's birthday, very sorry about that really. I'll send her the present I bought before all this blew up. It;'s so nice to have you loving best wishes. xxx
Hi Margie, no I haven't fallen and my hip is not broken. I'll email you a note on the condition etc. And yes, I'd love to see you, sometime when you're on your way to Geelong, we're not far from the West Gate. Just le time know when you're coming through. Love Sue
Sorry I forgot to say please use Kens email to send any news my way. I would really love to come and see you sometime. Xx
Hi Sue. I have heard that you had a fall and broke your hip you poor darling. Are you in hospital now . Will you be at Aunty Frans afternoon tea next Saturday? I think about you all the time and hope you are pain free and taking every day as it comes what more can you do. Lots of love Margie xxx
Hi Margie - did I reply to your lovely note? I mostly use email and I seem to have Ken's (Ken Curtis <ken.curtis1@bigpond.com>) but not yours. Mine is lung cancer; the secondary is in the pelvic area and there's some shadows in the lymph system. The radiation treatment has helped the pain and I think I have more energy this weekend. We're coping ok; we are a very close-knit family and Anna and Michael are in their thirties and both very happy with their lives and very swell-supported by family & friends. Cant ask for much more. Jim reads the scientific literature so this is incredibly helpful. Tonight he's being quite positive about possible (average) outcomes, etc. And yes, it's lovely to see all our cousins and their kids hooking up, isn't it? Love, Sue
Hi Sue. I always have in the back of my mind that it may come back if not in the other breast but somewhere else in my body as I had a grade 3 tumour but fortunately it hadn't passed through my nodes. So which is your primary and did you have any symptoms except for not walking properly, you looked so well last time I saw you. I am now on FB with Anna and as I said to her it is a great way of keeping connected which I think is important for our children so family connection remains with the Ayers line. Saima said when she caught up with Anna at Diana's farewell how nice it was and they have connected on FB . So how are you coping emotionally or are you like me shocked and numbed at first but then just get on with what has to be done. Once again if there is anything I can do please let me know. Take care and I will keep In touch. Love to you and Jim Margie xxx
Hi Margie. Many thanks for your lovely note. Yes, it's a bummer alright. But you've been here before and it's been ages since I asked you how you are. I'm learning much more about cancer and it's treatments and trajectory - more than I really wanted to know! Is yours likely to recur at some point? I'm home now, came home yesterday. I've started on radiation therapy but I can handle these daily sessions as an outpatient. The weekends are 'off' and this weekend we'll go up to Wolfden to oversee the installation of our new kitchen. The results of the gene sequencing aren't back yet and it will probably be next week before we know what type of cancer this is and what treatments are available. Thanks again - and love to you and Ken, Sue
Hi Sue. I was talking to Lynne last night , she had called to talk about Auntie Frans birthday afternoon tea and during our conversation I asked if you still went to see Fran ever week and Lynne told me your news. I am very sorry that you have to go through this but you are amazing woman and have a wonderful family and this makes things easier. Sue if there is anything I can do to help/support you in anyway please let me know. Lots of love. Margie xxxxxxx
Thats so good to hear. Keep the spirit up. Both bec n myself are thinking of you
Hi Sal; watched downloaded movies on iPad with Bose noise-cancelling earphones; way to go. Enjoyed 'St Vincent' with Bill Murray a lot. Thanks for your tips - and, tell Bec too, so far no adverse side-effects today. So going ok. Love, Sue
It will be fine sue. You have heaps of family n friends sending you positivity n love
Hi Sal. Many thanks. It does sound a bit grueling but what must be, must be. I'll keep you quotes in mind. Love, Sue
Hi sue, bec gave me the sad news. I am utterly shell shocked. Can never wish cancer on any one and it is worst when you know someone who is struck down with it. Through out my journey there were alot of tears in private or in the middle of treatment. But two quotes stuck with me through it all....the first one is by Churchill - "when you think you are in hell, keep going". And the other is from Finding Nemo......"just keep swimming". Be brave Sue and never give up and put your faith in the doctors, nurses and technicans. Bec n myself have everything crossed. We cant do much but if you feel like chatting or just need a laugh we are here for you n jim. But if personally i can help or assist you during this painful n difficult time...I'm here any time. Good luck on Tuesday....it's the hardest thing to go through. Take water or powerade drinks and a good book or magazine as it is a long day.
Many thanks Clytie
So sorry to hear your news. Our thoughts are with you and your family as you fight this darstedly disease. If you need anything just ask
Yes, that sounds very good to me :) See you there.
Hi Jillian, thinking about where we should meet - I often have coffee in the Deli, just round the corner off Glenhuntly Rd in CARRE ST (it's opposite the Post Office. The Deli is a couple of doors down; and there's usually parking on that street.. Would that suit you? 11.30 on Thursday?
ok great. say 11.30? I'll find somewhere and let you know xxx
Probably before would be better for me. Just let me know the time and place. :)
Well, that would be very special! My physio is 12.30 to 1.30 ( can run over a bit). Would that suit you - I can do before or after, whichever works best. Xxx
Oh I know Aviv very well! Lorraine will be working on Thursday so I would've happy to have a coffee with you, if that's OK?
Hi Jillian, yes still coming to Elsternwick. Usually Mondays 11.30 12.45 pm. But this week Thursday ( but that's your b'day anyway). There are plenty of nice cafes etc ( plus fabulous cake shop. Aviv) xxx
Yes, I do remember Peter and Lindsay. I was not sure whether you were home yet! So pleased that you enjoyed it! For birthdays we are going to Dandelion in Elwood. Nice and close and an excellent Vietnamese or Asian Fusion I think it's called. We have been before and it's very special. The holiday down the coast seems so long ago now! It was lovely and I got to spend time with Danuta and Marigold. Do you still come to Elsternwick for physio? Perhaps I could meet you there for a coffee or something?
Hi Jillian, yes, thanks, it was super & we loved spending time with Pete & Lins (you'd remember them I think?).. Must get together soon! I see its your birthday this week - planning something nice? And how did you enjoy your holiday at Somers? Love Sue
Hello Sue! Hope your trip is all you hoped it would be! Xxx
Thanks Jillian, good to know that. Love xxx
Yes, just let me know when you are over the worst of the post chemo. It can settle down after a few rounds so that the good days come sooner. I certainly hope that for you. Lots of lovexxx
Yes, I figured you know that. Not sure about next week as Lisa and David (old UOW friends) are coming from. Perth. Not staying fortunately but that might be as much as I can manage. Then chemo on 16th. Maybe pop over in the good weeks after the next round (assuming I have them!) love, Sue
Yes, chemo can make you pretty miserable for a while. When is your next round? I was thinking of a visit next week?
Hi Jillian. Many thanks to you and Lorraine for the gorgeous roses and chocolates. (I wrote an email but it won't 'send'.) had a few rotten days post chemo but I think I'm on the up and up now. Catch up soon, love Sue
Love, Adam
This relay run is a new thing for me. I think it should be fun! Love,
I'm glad that was okay. I've been thinking about you. With Anne in London right now, and she was sharing news, from Jim, of how things are going. It sounds like there's been some relatively good news. I hope so.
Hi Sue,
Hi Adam, many thanks for mentioning me in your fb post; you'll be very pleased to know that I have 'inspired' another marathon runner (Anna's father-in-law) so I have the necessary experience! It's nice to gave your warm concern. I'm doing quite well &. Am half-way through chemo. Jim has become the most amazing carer too. Love, Sue
Thanks for getting back Sue. Maybe next year. All the best, cheers andra
Hi Andra, Many thanks for keeping in touch. We're sorry to miss the reunion but Jim and I will be out of town in the weekend. Hope it goes really well. Best wishes, Sue
Hi Sue, Did you and Jim receive this? It is settled. The 2015 Monash Reunion will be held on July 4, the day on which is should be held in memory of significant events in Melbourne on that day many years ago. It will be held from 5pm to 10pm to cater for anyone who can't make it later in the evening. It will be held at The Grub's hole, a food venue in Fitzroy, 87 to 89 Moor street. You can tram it there from the city or park nearby in East Melbourne. Please share with fellow Monashites and RSVP for catering, cheers andra jackson.
Back to cushions tomorrow - concentrating on better zip insertions. How's your weekend been. I had a wonderful weekend at Beecroft with the gorgeous Macfadyen babies.
XX from us
Talk about brave! Running a group fb page indeed. Nicky's scarves sound lovely. More of the Christmas quilting for me. Xx
I have been asked to take on the new choir venture of a FB page!!! But the committee is comprised of micromanagers so I am just checking out some other choir FB pages to show them, Then I plan to get back to scanning photo albums before I go to lunch with my bipolar friend Nicky - in her 50s, declares herself a spinster having tried all types of relationahips, works with fabric, makes gorgeous elegant scarves out of kimono material.
Well done. Nice to have your voice especially for 2 nd tenors! I probably will be able to cut back on GastroStop; seeing the 'team' on Thursday. Xxx
Good to hear. I'm fiddling with my pills (under GP supervision, of course). The cardiologist gave me permission to go off the beta-blocker for a week to ssee if it improved my hoarseness - it did, so I"ve stayed off them for 2.5 weeks. My blood pressure increased so I deduced that a 24 hour BP pill was wearing out by mornings wehn the numbers were elevated. So my GP has agreed that I take one at night and one in the morning now - and the BP has dropped already after 2 days.
Yes thx my body is getting the hang of it. Mostly over vomiting & diarrhea but fatigue in afternoon. Good mornings though! Should improve further. But yes, ok.
How go the new dosage pills?
Oh good, glad you liked it. I like it a bit bland, it's soft & comfort food. Xxx
Salmon dish was great. I also added coconut milk. Next time I'll make it spicier - needed a bit more kick (Pete added chilli sauce!! I forbade the insult of tomato sauce)
very cool!
Hi Deb. Is the kitchen finished and are you happy with it? Time's flown; Easter and then we are off on our 8-day cruise with Pete & Lins. Catch up eventually! Love to you both, Sue
Wow, the time has gone by so quickly, in spite of slow kitchen progress. We will most likely move back in on the 14th. Are we already late in the week when we thought we might catch up, you and I? We should arrange something for next week, perhaps. Glad you enjoyed the NSW trip, touching base with the old gang. Talk soon. Xxx
Hi Deb. What a bugger. Still Ivanhoe sounds quite convenient. Coffee would be great. My sister is over from NZ but leaving this week. So maybe the following week, if that works for you? Xx
Yes, Sue — the kitchen will be great. Unfortunately the floor people have had a hitch with their previous job and will have to start late. So, looks like we'll be out of the place for about 4 weeks in all! We changed our minds about going to Sorrento, and are staying with friends in Ivanhoe which has proved useful both for Barry's work and my constant travel to the "building site". The friends are going overseas on Tuesday night and won't mind if we stay on, so that's a relief. So glad I haven't needed to bother you with overnight stays, though a coffee (or whatever you fancy) would be nice. When do you do your cruise?
Hi Deb. Sounds like it's been a wonderful trip. Yes I had the 4 th chemo last week. Because I've had such good results from blood tests, we may consider one or two more chemo treatments (ugh). Doing CT scans next Friday, decide then. Nice that Georgie's family is coming for a visit. Catch up eventually. Love to you both, Sue
Coming home this weekend, arriving Sunday night. It's been very relaxing, except possibly when it wasour turn to feed the ravening hoard but even then they're a pleasant ravening hoard so it was all right. And kitchen clean ups are a breeze with a lot of people. Looking forward to getting back to Melbourne though — Georgie's family are visiting from Wednesday. Hope to catch up with you soon. I think the chemo is finished, isn't it? Hopefully you're already feeling better after the last session and are appreciating the good effects. Talk when we get back. Deb xxx
Thanks so much for the post box she loves it!
Oh good, I think Georgie is very sweet. And love seeing the photos
No I don't mind either way I usually call her georgie and Adam calls her George! I saw Jessie is walking so cute
Hi Alison. I saw that you called Georgina 'Georgie' on your horse post. Would you be happy for me to call her Georgie too or do you really prefer Georgina? I'm happy with whatever you prefer. I know her birthday is coming up, so just checking !
just checking in to see how you are travelling and seeing if we can make a date to catch up rx
Hi Sue
Oh yes. That would be fine, thx. I'm really looking forward to this!
*feet...rx
they are house dogs aren't they? and if nice we'll be on verandah so they can lounge at our feer
Hi Rob. Terrific, 6 Dec it is. Now do you happen to have a yard ( ie secure spot for 2 dogs). If so, could we bring Monty & Fritz? If not, not to worry, we'll leave them at Wolfden & come back here after lunch. Just checking! Xx
rx
maybe 6th - more leisurely day than sat...
Hi Rob, 14th is in my diary. I'll check with Jim but I think 5/6 Dec will work. Which day suits you? Xx
and don't forget to put 14th Dec in your diary
Nov. is turning into a nightmare - have to be in Tasmania (3-7), Katherine, Kununurra and Warmun (11 - 18th), and Taiwan (25-28). 5/6 December is good...if that works for you. rx
Hi Rob - are you thinking a Saturday or Sunday lunch? Possible weekends coming up are: 7/8 Nov, 13/14 Nov, 5/6 Dec, 12/13 Dec. Xmas coming so fast! xx
Fabulous. I'll look at diary in the morning. Just gone to bed with little dog! Xx
rx
and i'll lock 14th in with the committee. glad trial med is not a burden - it's all sounding positive. much love
Let's do Selby then i can cook, but my garden is a mess so not much showing off unfortunately. let me know when suits
Hi Rob, I've adjusted to the Trial medication quite well now. So lunch with you and also 14 Dec both sound great. Wolfden or Selby sound especially nice. We could easily come across to Selby! Xx
how's things? have been stupidly busy with end of year but how about lunch and walk on beach (without snakes) at Williamstown or a catch up at Wolfden - or you and Jim for lunch at Selby? Had a v. good committee meeting today - suggestion is we have a thank you lunch for you on 14th December - would that work? rx
Hi Sue
Hi Rob. Side effects should be milder - rashes? Cross fingers. I'll check out dates for Wolfden.
OK so let's aim to catch up - lunch Wolfden in a couple of weeks. No side effects with Neratinib?
Yesterday. Last chemo in this line. Going onto the Neratinib Trial in a few weeks. Coping with side effects, not too bad yet - that will kick in on Friday, go through to mid next week. Xx
did you have another treatment today? and how are you rx
Hi Nia. Afternoon is fine & I should be ok as Jim will leave everything stocked up. Thx for offering though!
14:00 is good for me after the boys naps, do you need me to bring any thing for you if your running out of any thing?
Hi Nia. Yes it will be nice to see you and the littlies. Tues suits me, let me know what time. Can't offer lunch as jim will be away & I'm a bit stuck here. Address is 156 Cecil St Williamstown. Ph is 0418 178 409.
Tuesday would be good I would definitely come to you, David did mention that to me are you shore it will be ok to come I may have the boys with me?
Hi Nia - next week would be ok for, not Monday or Fri. What suits you? I don't have much on at present (did you know that I have cancer?) but I'm not very mobile. Cheers Sue
I would love and come and have a chat, when its convenient for you would be grate. Nia
Hi Nia. I'll come back to you on this. The first thing is to decide on the course (courses) you might be interested in doing. Victoria University & RMIT both have University & TAFE courses. Deakin & Swinburne might be worth looking at too. But VU is probably most convenient for you? Also check out Open Learning Australia. The question of 'recognition of prior learning' comes second - first decide what you want to do! Maybe you'd like to come and talk to me sometime? I think it's great that you are considering doing a course/ gaining a qualification! Happy to advise. Sue
Hi sue I was wondering if you could help me, i want to talk to someone about converting my management experience in to credit in a degree or diploma, I still have my P.L as well as my business plans and a few other paper work to show.
Very glad. And I also liked the new iPhone 6 that came in the box. Xxx
Hi Sue! Phone turned up in lovelybox! I think the boxes they make are beautiful! Thank you for taking such care of it! Lots of love Nicky xxx
Yay!!!! Thank you very much!! Xxx
Express Post today. Should be there soon, so you can come back into the land of the living & phoning!, xxx
Our address is 14 Kinsman Drive . Murrumbateman. NSW. 2582. I would just wrap it in bubble wrap and send it by post! Xxx
Ok good. We'll work out how to get it back to you asap. Not sure if they can go through the post? What's your address pls. So glad you liked my quilts too. Xxx
Yes! We did leave the phone at your place! And Jim's glasses in Sue's car! Its all this speedy city living! It was lovely seeing you both, and I'm so glad that Sue Z could come too! Your quilts are fantastic! I have to make a quilt each for my two expected grandchildren! Yours are an inspiration! Much love Nicky xxxx
Nicky hi, did you leave your phone here? In a black 'purse'. We loved seeing you, thanks so much for making time to visit. Sue xxx
Yes, that suits you? We're easy.
What time is lunch time? 12.30-1.00?
Excellent! Love Nicky
Fabulous, Monday 23 Nov lunch. 156 Cecil St Williamstown. My mobile 0418178409 or home ph 93998564. Looking forward to seeing you both & pls give our best wishes to the Zyngiers. Sue xx
Hi Sue, Monday lunch would be wonderful!! At Williamstown? I seem to have lost your phone numbers from my phone! Could you send them to me please? And your address!!!
Hi Nicky. We'd love to see you but we have a number of commitments that we'll need to work around. We're around in Williamstown on Thursday afternoon & Friday morning (but have lunch engagements on both days). On Friday afternoon well head up to Healesville for the weekend. If you wanted to come up (only 1 - 1&1/2 hours drive), lunch on Sunday would be great. Or we can do dinner on Sunday back in the city (though I could be pretty tired by then). Monday lunch also possible. Do any of those times suit you & Jim?
Hi Sue, My Jim and me are coming to Melbin next thursday evening, staying with the Zyngiers, until the 23. Hoping we can get a chance to catch up with you both! Much love Nicky benjamin black
Please give Dwi my regards eventually. And yes Emma is gorgeous. Xx
Yes, that's the gorgeous Emma, although I probably have more photos of 'the grandogs'. Always nice to see what great people kids turn out to be. Fingers crossed then for more positive effects from the treatment.
I've seen quite a bit of Dwi over the years, more recently a few months ago in Yogya in conjunction with a project I have on modern Indonesian art. His family got even bigger after he went back to Yogya, but they are all growing up now. He's doing very well, although he got caught by Indonesian politics when he was in line for the Rector's job at the Institute. Basically the appointment was stymied because he wasn't a Muslim. But that means he's going back to research and writing, which is good for us.
Hi Sue,
Hi Adrian. Great to hear from you & I see you are prolific on fb. I enjoy checking it out & also Anna, my daughter, posts lots of photos. I'm friends with Dwi too but not much actual communication. And yes, I am putting up with the awful treatment regimes for cancer! But they are having good effects so worth it. Is that your daughter in the photos with you? Nice to chat, Sue
Hi Sue, love the family photos. I just heard that you are not well. Sending all my best wishes to you.
Hi beautiful Sue. Thanks for your lovely message, am drawing the love in and enjoying having it flow around us. Life is precious and our time with friends and other loved ones all too short, so I'm all for being lovingly expressive - since Beth's diagnosis, my sisters and I have a different language, and it's the same with my family-in-law. It's one of the gifts of trouble, sorrow and illness - that ole silver lining is always in there somewhere. FABULOUS news that last week's scans show no growth. Wow. And yes, I'd love to be on your email update list - doreen.mellor@yahoo.com . It's great that Jim has taken up the cancer research task. It's hard to do illness and and illness management at the same time; so that gives you more energy for healing, when you want to tune out of research. I didn't even turn my computer on yesterday, as we drove to Bundanoon, took Olivia for the long ride too, after her weekly storytime at the local library (she does 3 full days at pre-school/kindergarten and has a couple of days to do other things... play with her chooks and feed hr fish!). Went up to collect a laser machine so I can treat Beth each day with phototherapy. http://www.saisei-mirai.or.jp/gan/sonophotodynamic_therapy_eng.html Great generosity from lovely Leslye (handing over one of her precious machines!), so we can prepare the ground with light laser and oral chlorophyllin in prep for the sono machine on its way from Japan, to be used with a new sensitiser. Would love you to send me some Scandinavian crime! (3 McIntyre Cres Googong NSW 2620) but only if you get to it without too much stress or bother. I do like turning a paper page - am on screen so much of the day that it's a nice change... and my true confession is that I won a Kindle 2 yrs ago in one of the online programs I work with, and haven't even set it up yet. Cringeworthy! Yes, it was early 1990s at the Australia Council - 1992 or 93, while I was at Tandanya. Funny to think one of my kids went on to be Chair of that VA Board. And I know just what you mean about loving to hear about kids, having known each other since they were young (so keep telling me about their doings!). It's interesting too what that time does; knowing friends with whom the loving connection never fades... the years enrich and build on the connection, whether you see them or not. I am really missing seeing our oldest son Aaron... difficult for us to get away, and they have been deep into family/work/school/building/looking after Sonya's much older parents etc. Aaron is exhausted (my observation is that 46-47 is a crux time for health - I have known several people and had good friends who've died at that age, often from unexpected things such as pneumonia), so am relieved he has a long service leave in progress (even tho it came as a result of the company he's worked with, folding - The People's Republic Of Animation). He's had a productive 12 yrs with them, won an AIMIA award before working with them, and fortunately has a reputation in the industry - had two offers before the end of his first week of freedom. Anyway - time to pop this message into the post! The day is calling. Sending big love to you and Jim and healing thoughts for all. Doreen
Hi darling Doreen. (Since diagnosis, I've become much more explicit about my love for my friends!). What's your email address? I can send you the 'updates' on my scans etc - Jim writes them; like you, he's now quite expert in my specific cancer and its treatment. Our discussions with our oncologist, the baby-faced Ross, are a scream. But Ross is fabulous, youngish and very up to date. I love hearing about your kids because we've known each other since they were quite young. Let's see - was it early 1990s? 25 years or so? We are cruising the Pacific - 8 days - with Pete & Lins, old friends from Wollongong. Scandanavian crime - maybe I can send you some of mine? I really only read on Kindle now but I do love thrillers & love giving away books so they are read again. My CT scans last week showed no growth btw, very good news. Well, I'm thinking of you - you all, with love.
No there's lots else to take about, but of course, this sort of illness is definitely a career! :) As a researcher it's impossible to just let everyone else get on with deciding the patient's fate as a patient! I am so pleased to hear though, that you've had good benefits from your treatment. Olivia has been amazing - she is a beautiful, confident, singing, dancing miracle. But very afraid of mum dying - Beth is 33... terrible. Olivia started at Steiner kindy this year, and says every day ''I LOVE school''. Today she didn't want to go, cried and said she missed mummy and daddy - whereas she's been the little light of the kindergarten looking after all the others, and being her social, happy self. She is increasingly anxious and I guess we just have to go with the flow and be there to surround her with love. Great to hear about Michael and Anna, would love to hear more. Our oldest, Aaron and his family (wife Sonya, violinist; Finn 15 and Jasper 10) were here in Jan. Lovely. Aaron turned 46 while here. Mein Gott! Soon we will have a 50 yr old son! So where are you cruising to? my cruises are novels, since we are anchored for the moment, and I give thanks every day for the Queanbeyan Public Library and Scandinavian crime! But I'm still working, anyway, and happy to be focused at the desk. Love to see you though, so let me know if you're coming thru. Thought of you last May when in Melb... but, next time hey? Am going to be a good girl and go to bed now - have been doing 2 am stints almost every night for months and we all know that's a very unhealthy practice! Lots of love
Oh dear, that sounds very tough indeed. My heart goes out for you all. And Saul, as if he hasn't had his own struggles; how is Olivia coping? My observation is that having caner is like a career - appointments, procedures, so all-consuming. I had very good results from the first chemos - tumor reduced to 12% of its volume on diagnosis; pain & loss of mobility from pelvis gone. I am prone to fatigue of course. We're going on a cruise in April with old Wollongong friends! Michael our son, is doing his PhD at Melbourne & Anna works at RMIT in web content management. That is to say, we don't want to just talk about illness, do we? So much to catch up on. But it's lights out time for me. Good night dear friend xxx
Yeah, Danie is doing great work. It consumes him, which is the only way he can do anything! Lung cancer. Geez. Where the heck did that come from? (we may well ask - none of it is comprehensible). Glad Jim has stepped into the kitchen and put on his nurse's cap! Lovely Jim, he has my admiration and gratitude for looking after my friend! So glad to hear you are doing OK. Beth is not good at present - weight is down to 30kgs which speaks for itself. Beth adenocarcinoma is the 5 to 8% of gastric cancer (linitis plastica type, diffused though the stomach tissue like marbled steak) that is unmanageable, fast and agressive. No beneficial effect from first line chemo, so we decided not to do second line chemo - with her oncologist's blessing... v poor prognosis - 15 of 40 lymph nodes removed were involved. Yu Jo is great - acknowledges how well our approach has kept her until the past couple months. He is well known in GI oncology-land.. was involved in a seminal trial in the UK and we started off using their protocols. Thing that gets me, is that you don't have time to scramble and locate all the options. So further treatment from Japan may be too late. Nevertheless, I am injecting the GcMAF immunotherapy each day and Dr Toshio Inui at Saisei Mirai cancer clinics http://www.saisei-mirai.or.jp/gan/abouthd_eng.html has put a machine in the post today. We have a therapist in Bundanoon who will give the treatment. She was the one who swung into action and got the GcMAF immunotherapy to us, after Sydney trial for nano-chemo fell thru - (because Beth hadn't done the conventional 2nd line chemo). Leslye is a former registered nurse - worked in the Aboriginal communities in central Australia and has used her medical training as a platform to explore further. Works with drs in Japan and Germany with various treatments. An so it goes... Love to you and much positive energy for your work with the treatments as they unfold. Doreen xx
Hi Doreen. Oh I'm so sorry to hear about Beth - so much worse when she's so young. Caring for me has been Jim's top priority, even learning to cook. It's lung cancer but I only found it when some pain in my pelvis became fairly serious - it was a secondary tumor. Last April. Had bouts of radiation & chemo; now I'm on a Trial medication plus chemo. I had scans today & we'll find out tomorrow if there are positive outcomes at this point. There are still other options, other chemo treatments. We're also hoping for immunotherapy & etc down the track. Currently, apart from some mouth ulcers, I'm doing pretty well. Actually went back to gym yesterday! Good to hear about your 'retirements'. I see reports on Dani from time to time too, doing amazing work. Love, Sue
Hello sweetie, I've missed you! I am so sorry to hear about the cancer. Please tell me about it? I know how shitty and debilitating and time-consuming it is. Saul married 5 yrs ago to beautiful Philipina gal, Beth, and she has gastro-oesophageal cancer. I have been looking after her for two years, not to mention Saul and his heart and their gorgeous 4 yr old Olivia (milton's wonderful small child magic has been invaluable) ...so have not done much else since then. Big surgeries, A month in Sydney etc etc. You know the deal. First palliative care appointment tomorrow. Unless we get this Japanese immunotherapy to work, so that we can get more stuff from there into her, it's (devastatingly for us all) curtains. But Milt and I are OK. He has been fully retired for a year now. I retired mid-2012 & started working online, continued on Qld Museum Board (chucked off with most of the rest of the board when Campbell Newman was voted in), continued with Steiner School Board, now retired from that, and kept on working with daughter of old friend in Adelaide to set up a Foundation over there... first Award last yr, (they're bit like a ''keating'', on smaller scale) http://bettisonandjamesfoundation.com/ I saw a pic of the gorgeous Jessie... lovely. Hope all the family is well, and that you are managing OK. Lots of love to you D xxx
Hi Doreen. Nice to be re-connected this way - & thanks, I enjoy your posts. How are you, did you retire, what are you up to now? And Milton & family? I've enjoyed retirement since 2009 (no commuting interstate). Annoyingly, I now have cancer, very time-consuming & debilitating. We have a gorgeous granddaughter, Jessie, now 1&1/2 years. Let's keep in touch!
Just out with the dogs and my son at football training. Will reply properly later! In brief, all is good.
Hi Chris. Nice to be in touch! What are you up to now? Well, happy?
Thanks Sue, hope all is well and have a great week.
Congratulations Jane! So thrilled to see the newborn photos of Yingina. Lovely name too. Love, Sue
I had my baby Yingina Kalinda Moore and here are our first snaps; Jarrah and I are in the baby bubble and can't stop stroking her little cheeks!
Wombat onesies!!
Wolfden photos from a party many year ago (today)
I just realised that you will be able to come with us to Richmond hill! And the four of us could go to the French restaurant!
hi Boo
hi Mummy. I'm lazing around on the couch at Wolfden!!
I didn't go to the Picasso gallery though (bad!). We went to go but it was closed.
yes, that'd be a highlight.
We will love to relive it all :-) we went to the Miro gallery yesterday - loved it!
great, yes, we'll want your advice!
I think youd want to be closer to the Barri Gothic though.
Our hotel is ME Hotel.
It's the type of place I could live.
Thats great! You guys will love it!!! We are a bit out of the centre. We love the hotel but I think you guys might like something more central. Well talk locations when I get back if you want? I'll bring a map.
sounds fine then. where are you staying? Dad and I think we'll go to Barcelona too since you and Mick loved it so much!
Still in Barcelona - our flight isn't until 5.35 and we arrive at 7.55 I think. I'm just going with the assumption that it will be fine and so not thinking about it... I think that we are only staying 6 days and have proof of our onwards travel will help. The guy didn't bat an eyelid or say anything on the way over.
Are you in London yet? Any issues with Nick's passport?
Cute puppys!!
Paris - should I see if Ron Newman's flat is available?
you can just see how Piggy rips paper to shreds, can't you? It's hard for Normie to keep his eye on Piggy ALL the time!
hi love
Lol!!! So funny... >Will speak agauin soon. This hotel has free wifi :-) Love you!! xoxo
enjoy Gaudi
We have détente, actually they are fine. I guess Fritzi knows he's a beneficiary because he gets more attention & treats when Normie's here. Normie only jumps on his head in the morning.
Ok, we are off... time to go see the Sagrada Familia!!!
Nick doesn´t mind - he bought a t-shirt... hehe... How are you? So Normie has stopped being annoying to Fritzie? But is successfully negotiating you lol!!! You wont know what to do with all your free time once Normie goes to Kaye and Rons lol!!!
oh good girl, Nick must be so pleased. Normie says 'well done mummy'. We've settled into the pattern for the day (ie the dogs have won and I capitulated on walks, snacks, lap-naps, breakfast & dinner).
Lol! I think I am already over my luggage limit... bought 3 dresses and a local designer bracelet yesterday...
..anything to declare?
Its amazing!!! LOVE the Gothic quarter, and LOVE the shopping!!!!!
Hi Boo. We've just had dinner and I'm being licked all over. How's Barcelona?
Hi Mummy!
ah- ha, are you home already? do you look gorgeous?
Ahh! Hi Mummy~!!
hi darling, chat chat
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This is the first of 4 albums I have posted to facebook - I will show you myself but incase you wanted to browse... I will open up all 4 albums to you incase xx
Hi everyone, Just reminding you all to make your way over to the State Library tomorrow evening to listen to some amazing people speak and mark the fiftieth year of Amnesty International by being part of a giant human candle. Hope to see everybody there!
Hello everyone, Just a reminder to you all, that Amnesty International's Candle Day and Amnesty's 50th anniversary will take place this Friday. We - the RMIT Amnesty International group - have been working on organising this event for the past three months and it would be great if you all would come to the state library to show your support! When: THIS FRIDAY (27th May 2011) Time: 6PM Where: LAWN IN FRONT OF STATE LIBRARY (Swanston Street) The purpose of the event is to raise awareness on one of Australia's key human rights issues - refugees and mandatory detention. The idea of the evening is to change the dialogue about refugees not only in Australia but throughout the entire world. In order to achieve this goal, we have invited a couple of really interesting speakers. Amongst them are - Farkhonda Akbari- Hazara refugee - Sister Brigid Arthur- Brigidine Asylum Seekers Project - as well as Hannah, an important Amnesty International representative, who has been working for Amnesty International for the past two years. To celebrate Amnesty's 50 years of fighting for human rights and defence of refugees, we are going to create a giant human candle with glowsticks on the lawn in front of the State Library. It would be great to see you all there. Have a good time until then and hopefully see you this friday! The RMIT Amnesty International Group
Is that a rottweiler puppy you are holding? How adorable. We breed cocker spaniels and they are the most fabulous little babies - balls of roly poly fun.
Hello how are you doing today? i was looking for long ago friend of mine and i came across your lovely profile which look so attractive to me and no man on is right sense will see without saying a big HELLO to you over there....well i am from new jersey (Newark) i lost my wife some years ago and since then i have been lonely but i think this is right time to find my true love the woman that i will love till the end of my life ........Thanks and i will love to hear from you soon ...