happy sparrow

My heart will always sing...

2012-02-09T02:14:00.000-08:00

A beautiful new song I love by Kari Jobe....

Love Martine

Birthday birthday birthday brunch!!

2012-01-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

This morning we celebrated Byron's first birthday with brunch on our deck with family.

The bunting and lanterns were hung bringing much delight to Byron!

The cake was baked...

"Happy birthday" was sung....

and our big boy enjoyed his first piece of birthday cake!
Happy first birthday Byron - we love you so much!

Martine

The Power of a God Encounter...

2012-01-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

A new journey with Him...

2012-01-22T03:05:00.000-08:00

It seems like a long time ago now that this photo was taken. It was taken the day before Noah was born, the day before I was officially a "mother". The desire in my heart had been there a long time before and I'm so thankful to God for blessing me with this journey of motherhood.

The hand and foot picture of my breech Noah...I knew from when he was growing inside me that this little one would grow to be determined...

bring so much joy....

wonder at the world surrounding him...

travel and enjoy a cafe or two (this is Noah in Amsterdam soaking up the cafe culture:)

enjoy sweet treats over veggies any day...

one day pack his backpack and go on adventures without Dan and I (but thankfully not just yet!)...

learn to spread his own wings...

check out the surf...

enjoy being "silly"...

love being a big brother (mostly...apart from when he needs alone time without Byron following his every move:)...

enjoy taking risks, particularly on his scooter....

and have a vivid imagination!

When I embarked on this journey of motherhood I had no idea what the journey would involve. I'm thankful that every step of the way I have had God's constant guidance to help me make the many and varied decisions that this ministry of motherhood entails.

Tomorrow, I start a new journey with Noah....that of being teacher. But, you know that journey started when he was born and is just continuing now in another form. Noah is keen to get started on his "school" work. He has asked many times when am I going to finally teach him to read and write....sneakily I have been teaching him how to read since the first time I read him a book :) I'm looking forward to starting this journey. I'm thankful for God's guidance and strength and looking forward to where these uncharted waters will take us.Bon voyage!
Martine

A whole lot of Chinese New Year...

2012-01-20T16:55:00.000-08:00

We made a little trip...

to Chinatown mall...

Celebration and feasting....

lovely friends...

Then the "Lion dancers" appeared!

No one was exempt from getting eaten by the lion...

The lions even went after our boys that were hiding under the table!

The lettuce eating stunt was a crowd pleaser!

A great night!
Martine

Beautiful...

2012-01-16T15:56:00.000-08:00

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the heart of man....
Ecclesiastes 3:11

Martine

Bridge to life...

2012-01-10T15:23:00.000-08:00

Twas a turkey, not for eating, candles for alighting and a wonderful time had by all!

2012-01-04T02:16:00.000-08:00

Twas a fine Christmas Eve morn and Miss Turkey (the resident scrub turkey) was fluffing her feathers looking like she might become dinner. But alas, she lives another day grunting in our backyard! I was thinking to myself, "I wonder what scrub turkey's taste like!" Thankfully I won't ever find out!

The boys were in bed and Dan and I had fun sneaking out the presents!

A happy coffee grinder on Christmas morning!

A new toothbrush :)) I thought maybe a flashing spider man toothbrush might give Noah a little bit more incentive to brush his purley whites!

Dan's new phone :))

Our scooter boy! He is ready to roll with enough padding to keep him rolling for the next few years!

Byron's first Christmas!

More present time with Nanna and Pa and the crew!

A bit small for me :)) but Byron will love it - a muscle T!

A great day!!

Martine

The cousins...

2012-01-03T01:41:00.000-08:00

It has been great to spend some time with our families over the Christmas break and a special treat has been time with our nieces and nephews. Noah affectionately calls them "my cousins" and here are a few pictures of our recent adventures with them!

My nephew William is a character! He posted a little something on the Christmas tree (see above!) ....

He almost got what he wished for!

Noah and Byron are blessed with four loving and lovely cousins. Sophie loves to play with the boys and especially taking Byron for rides on the digger! I love that from when Byron was a newborn Sophie has confidently carried Byron around! We love you Sophie!

It has been a treat to meet little Oliver for the first time! Such a joyful boy! We love you!

Sophie is loving the digger ride...Byron is not so sure!

The infamous washing trolley! This trolley was once my Grandmother Lily's. Its a tradition to wheel the babies around in it as it squeaks and get your photo taken in it! Byron loves a ride! Thanks Lochlan and Sophie!

Playing cowboys and Indians!

Thanks Sophie for all your help! Even feeding little guy!

Cousins such a precious gift as are nieces and nephews!

Lots of love,

Martine

A little pre Christmas surprise....

2012-01-02T22:18:00.000-08:00

The week before Christmas I took the boys up to Gympie to visit my parents.
The trip had been planned for awhile and I was really looking forward to spending time in the serene surrounds with my parents.
The "star" in the photo above was hanging above my parents drive way and was an apt way to herald in the Christmas decorating that had been happening in the "Gympie house" as all the grandchildren affectionately call it!

But amidst all the decorating....

preparing...

joy...

winter land scenes...

many Christmas trees...

a surprise was lurking and I almost couldn't hold in my excitement (but I did:)

There was a arrival from afar (no it wasn't the wooden Christmas tree my dad made!)...

My sister Luana, husband Mitchell and baby Oliver flew in from The Netherlands and surprised my parents!

It was a wonderful reunion and first meeting of grandparents and little Oliver!
My parents got quite the surprise and had no idea! It has been so lovely to spend time with them and to meet the very gorgeous Oliver.
You can follow their adventures at Luana's blog La Petite LuLu.

Martine

Around here....and a happy new year!!

2012-01-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

A little belated...but I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and got a little time to relax at this special but also hectic time of year!

I LOVED celebrating Christmas with our two boys...to see Noah's delight on Christmas morning and Byron's confusion!

The gingerbread house...melted in a landslide of sugary ooze....next year I won't be using caramelized sugar to hold the walls together!

A special Christmas breakup party with a lovely group of women I meet with monthly for a women's forum. Thanks so much for your wonderful encouragement ladies! Lots of love!

Byron getting himself stuck in some tricky situations!

Ahhh...these cool guys...love them!

A little superhero Noah and I made :)

Relaxing by candlelight! Hoping for a bit more of this before the year gets into full swing!
I will post some more Christmas pics soon!

Martine

Happy Birthday Dan!

2012-01-01T21:50:00.000-08:00

We love you!!

Advent: New Farm Park

2011-12-18T03:46:00.000-08:00

It was just a few hours...

spent...

gazing...

kite flying...

retrieving...

delighting...

beholding...

being free...

...for those who the Son Jesus has set free are free indeed...

Martine

Advent: An Australian kind of adventure....

2011-12-17T17:12:00.000-08:00

Advent: we wanted to fulfill one of Noah's dreams...go to Australia Zoo! He loves learning from Bindi the Jungle girl DVDs and LOVES Steve Irwin so this was a special day for Noah and a great family adventure!

From the moment we arrived I was quite overcome by the beautiful environment that Australia Zoo is. Such a special place!
It was fun feeding the elephants!

Even Byron had a go (with a little help from Dan)!

Ahhh...the croceseum show...amazing birds flying in from all directions and a wonderful message and challenge presented to be caretakers of God's creation.

I was most profoundly moved by the dedication, love, sacrifice and INFLUENCE that the Irwin family has had all over the world.
It was a special day and I'm sure we will be back for another visit.
Also, Noah has been learning all about cheetah's and it was getting close to the end of the day and we hadn't seen any as they get walked around by the trainers...and just before we left Noah got to see a beloved cheetah! Thankyou God for answering this mum's prayer!

Martine

Advent: My hope has come...

2011-12-09T01:05:00.000-08:00

I heard this beautiful song on a lovely blog...bohobabybump...
I hope its an encouragement to you!

Well I feel a warm wind blowin'
Melting all the sadness off of my soul
and I smell the sweet cherry blossoms
pouring all their gladness, into my soul

In winter I believe you
In springtime I see you
It's so good to be with you
my hope has come
Lord you make all things new
Your love is my breakthrough
Now I sing Hallelujah
my hope has come

Well I've walked through the valley of the shadow
And I have been tested like silver and gold
Lord your faith has taught me to cherish
that this light affliction is not my home

I'm not gonna give in to this mortal frustration
And I'm not gonna give death any standing ovation
I will lift my soul God, with no hesitation
because between you and me there's no separation

Love Martine

Advent: Around here and there....

2011-12-07T23:36:00.000-08:00

Red velvet cupcakes!

Backyard church...

Little drummer boys...

Still loving our gingerbread house...

A special surprise delivery from friends... a BBQ! Thanks so much!!

Barefoot bowls...

A vintage bowls Christmas party...

....a whole lot of standing up and crawling by this little guy...

...a late afternoon picnic by the River...

Good times :)

Martine

Advent...our gingerbread masterpiece!

2011-12-07T04:06:00.000-08:00

Having never made a gingerbread house before I was keen to have a go...

My little skiers chalet is adorning our table on a very rainy night...
Its feeling very wintery in our Queensland summer...just right for our snowy little scene.

Always have lovely company to help you assemble your masterpiece (thanks Helen!)...

In Noah's words, "Mummy, its soo beautiful!"
Here is to a new family tradition birthed and I can't wait to next year's...
I'm thinking of making a mid-century modern gingerbread house...

Martine

Advent continues....

2011-12-06T17:46:00.000-08:00

Hmmm....so many to list...apricot balls, white Christmas, dutch speculas, chocolate balls, gingerbread, red velvet cake, Christmas cake...and going to try making egg nog too :)
What are your favourite Christmas treats?

Martine

Advent 2: Time to trim the tree!

2011-12-02T18:51:00.000-08:00

Come and see...

...our beautiful tree...

...the decorators were pumped...

...serious...

...and loving it!

This one's a beauty and its especially nice at night with the lights twinkling reminding me again of the Jesus - the light of the world.

Martine

1. The countdown has begun...

2011-12-01T21:27:00.001-08:00

To celebrate the beginning of advent I wanted to make an advent cake....

Our advent calendar gave us the instructions...

Yay for advent cake, bunting and a cute little deer...

The cake tasted great...

Thanks mum for all your creative help!

Our advent wreath....time to celebrate life, eternity and Jesus - the light of the world...
"I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life..." John 8:12
Martine

P.S...I finally made something I pinned on pinterest! :)

An advent pinterest challenge....

2011-11-29T01:35:00.000-08:00

Since being introduced to Pinterest I have been LOVING all the creative inspiration and collection of beautiful ideas, inspiration, food ideas, decorating, party ideas... but I don't want this to be a waste of precious time! So I have set a challenge for myself in the lead up to Christmas to be able to say....

I'll let you know how I go :))
Martine

Into the woods....

2011-11-29T01:22:00.000-08:00

This was a lovely afternoon, spur of the moment, trip to the park near our house for a dinnertime picnic. So thankful to see this beautiful sight of the light streaming through the trees.
Martine

The week that was....

2011-11-28T01:16:00.000-08:00

This 'lil guy got accepted into prep with a distance education school...he is loving "school at home" and has been excitedly learning all about cheetah's while pretending to be one most of the time.
"Mummy let's be a Cheetah herd...I'll be the big boy cheetah, Byron will be the baby cheetah, daddy will be the daddy cheetah and you can be the mummy cheetah."
I love what Noah said this afternoon in character..."Mummy cheetah, I am going to hunt down an impala (aka pillow) for dinner for us all". He then preceded to BBQ an impala for us to eat :) So cute!

Byron is ten months old! He is crawling around the place and pulling himself to stand on anything he can!

I received a lovely package in the mail from etsy. Thanks Tamara!

Loving this print and this verse :)
Galatians 5:25 For the fruit of the Holy Spirit living in your life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.

Martine

A superhero kind of Sunday...

2011-11-27T00:54:00.000-08:00

This morning our church had its first kids service! It was such a wonderful time for everyone...

The theme was superheroes...and we did our best to bring out our SUPER sides! Noah I think is the most convincing :)

A bit of batman, spider man and superman mixed into one!

"King of Majesty, this is my one desire just to be with you my Lord, just to be with you my Lord!
Jesus you are the Savior of my soul and forever I will give my praises to you!"

Byron looking a little dazed as a super baby...

Even super hero musicians!

I loved seeing the kids being honored, valued, loved and having FUN! For me as a child growing I heard about God for the first time at school during religious instruction time, when an elderly man would volunteer his time and come into my Grade One classroom and teach my classmates and I about God. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to hear at a young age about the God of the universe who made me, loves me and lovingly sent His son Jesus Christ to die for me to give me eternal life. I still wonder at God's grace and love and I love that I can have a relationship with the Creator of the universe. I'm so thankful and so thankful that my children can know God too.

Martine

It's Almost Christmas

2011-11-25T21:04:00.000-08:00

A Story

2011-11-23T20:55:00.001-08:00

Our hut...

2011-11-21T15:44:00.000-08:00

The "Harding's Hut"...welcome come on a grand tour!

We are loving our new hut and are thankful to God for providing for us in so many ways and giving us a place to live in "God's deep rest".
...Shalom...
Martine

Let's upcycle! :)

2011-11-21T15:33:00.000-08:00

After being inspired by seeing baby formula tins being used for another purpose I made this little stack of tins to house all the 'bits and bobs' that don't have a home on our kitchen bench. I'm loving being able to find my mobile phone now when it rings and pens! :))

Ahhh....our old fridge...this fridge shifted to Cooktown with my family back when I was a teenager.
It has seen a bit too much rust and mould, so in an attempt to give it a new lease of life I painted it with blackboard paint!
It has come up a treat and I'm loving the blackboard (so is Noah)!

...old music turned to birdy love...

...and I'm loving using Byron's baby food jars as tea light candle holders...
Let's upcycle!

Martine

Some animal rescue...

2011-11-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

There was a rustle in the bushes and Noah (and Dan) our intrepid animal rescuers found an injured baby scrub turkey in the garden.

This little one had a broken leg and was separated from his parents...

...thankfully he was in safe hands...

...Noah was on a mission to take this injured turkey to some professional help...
Thankyou local vet nurse you saved the day!
Martine

A little adventure everyday...

2011-11-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

In trying to make our shift fun we have been enjoying a little adventure or two everyday...

....catching citycats, walks along the river...

...dinner at South Bank...

...late afternoon swims on hot afternoons...

...enjoying someone else cooking dinner (and Noah wearing goggles:)...

Here is to our next adventure!

Martine

I'm grateful for....

2011-11-16T14:54:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for:
-all the friends and family who helped us in so many ways with our shift...friends who entertained Noah so I could pack a few boxes (thanks Cath!), cleaning, cleaning, cleaning (thanks to George who cleaned our stove - my least favourite job and I didn't have to get gassed by the fumes and Selina for high pressure hosing for us!) and mum and Di for making our old house gleam, thanks to our families for packing, shifting, building new chook houses, mowing, unpacking, cooking meals, the anonymous friend who left a gift of money in our letter box to help with our move (thankyou so very much), old neighbours who gave us a meal and gifts for the boys, more meals and lots of love
-Thankyou all for your love, prayers, help and support we feel very blessed

I'm grateful for:
-Byron LOVING Noah feeding him!

I'm grateful for:
-colour and joy!

I'm grateful for:
-some redecorating help (thanks mum!) and airconditioning on hot days in our new house

I'm grateful for:
-our new deck (really loving this space)

I'm grateful for:
-the citycat and the joy it brings a certain four year old

I'm grateful for:
-Wednesday markets in the city and artisan bakers

I'm grateful for:
-childhood wonder

I'm grateful for:
-great music

I'm grateful for:
-free performances

I'm grateful for:
-money box joy and Fireman Sam :)

I'm grateful for:
-our new library

I'm grateful for:
-my wonderful husband Dan whose moustache is taking on a life of its own :)

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows...
Martine

The last few weeks....

2011-11-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been full of boxes, packing, unpacking, cleaning and shifting!!
We have embarked upon a new adventure as a family and have settled into our new house and are slowly reorientating to our new area!

In amongst all the boxes, emotion and exhaustion that comes with moving and resettling (mixed in with more gastro and Byron having a suspected case of measles) I know God's peace and trying to take each day as a new adventure...

This cubby entertained Byron and Noah while getting jobs done!

Our spotty boy was still happy to smile for the camera! :)

Noah was loving being a "scary" tiger!

Dan and the moving truck :))
Martine

Our weekend - a little getaway...

2011-10-24T01:52:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we spent the weekend at the beach in Coolum with our church community...

We stayed in a cabin, which I was very thankful for when it rained torrentially one afternoon and when Noah and I had gastro!

Noah LOVED sleeping on the top bunk, with his very own light switch and we ignored the sign that stated, "only kids over nine could sleep on the top bunk"!

We enjoyed time together in community sharing food....

time...

stories...

and some fire twirling love!

Noah and his friend India were mesmerized by the fire twirling.

It was a great weekend (apart from the bout of gastro!)!
Thanks LifePoint community.

Martine

A style all of his own...

2011-10-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

"Mum!" says Noah, "I'm going to dress army today...."

"Me and puppy can wear our santa hats..."

"Yeah...I'm going to wear my spiderman suit to the park..."

I love your style little man...its all your own.

Martine

Thankyou Chocolate and Dancing!

2011-10-15T20:48:00.000-07:00

Thankyou Bill Granger for this awesome recipe!

Thankyou Dan for this awesome cookbook!

Thankyou LifePoint formal we had so much fun!

Martine

A lovely day....

2011-10-14T20:42:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, lovely friends of ours were married!

It was a perfect day in every way.

We LOVED helping them celebrate!

We had a bit of trouble getting a family shot with all eyes open!

Arrrr!

Martine

Grace upon grace, He paints over our lives with His grace...Thankyou Jesus

2011-10-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

A beautiful song....be encouraged...
Jesus full of grace and forgiveness waits to cover us in His grace...

Thankyou Wind and Willow for this song, "Daisies, Roses and Dandelions...."

Martine

oh Byron boy you are 8 months!

2011-10-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

This 'lil guy...

loves to...

smile :) and have his photo taken :)) I think its a family trait!

When the camera is pulled out....

...he strikes a pose...

...and brings out...

...his scrunchy new smile...

We love you Byron our cuddly boy...

Martine

A little reminder...

2011-10-05T23:10:00.000-07:00

Consider....

...the flowers in the field...
...look at the birds...

...they do not plant seeds, gather a harvest and put it in barns...
...yet your Father in Heaven takes care of them...
....and your Father in Heaven will take care of you so much more...
Matthew 5

Steve Jobs: "Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything - all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart".

Martine

ARRR!! Its International talk like a pirate day!

2011-09-19T01:44:00.000-07:00

What is a pirate to do? Today is the one day of the year (www.talklikeapirate.com) to bring out all your "Arrr my hearties!", "Ahoy there!", "Where's my peg leg!", "Walk the plank!".... so thanks to my lovely friends Cath and Jess we spent the afternoon exploring the beach, being pirates near a wrecked ship and going on a treasure hunt!

"Arrr!"

Bryon enjoying a cuddle...

...treasure hunting...

...pirate transportation...

...One happy pirate enjoying a blessed afternoon...

Martine

Leaving on a jet plane...

2011-09-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

This past week we went for a little flight to Sydney for a family funeral.

Byron was a happy flier and Noah was really happy to meet the captain on the flight home and to see the cock pit.
As we were walking away from the plane after meeting the pilot Noah exclaimed, "Mummy, I don't want to be a fireman anymore when I grow up...I want to be a plane driver!"

Ice-creams at Cronulla...

Sink baths and Noah getting ready for a spa!

Martine

A smile and hello can go a long way...

2011-09-09T03:15:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Hilda (above searching for lost toy cars in a mud puddle:) and I became friends in the most unlikely way...
One day about two years ago, I was lined up at the check-out at the grocery store and I smiled and said a "Hello...How are you?" to the lady in the queue behind me. After a little chat, I had bought my groceries, we said our goodbyes and I pushed the trolley off through the shopping centre to the fruit and vegetable shop. A few minutes later the lady I had been chatting to was also in the grocery store and she asked if we could be friends. We exchanged phone numbers and have been friends ever since! I love that when we can be going about seemingly mundane tasks such as grocery shopping and heading into an ordinary day...something out of the ordinary such as a new friendship can be born.

Hilda's son Luke is a lovely friend of Noah's. They love to play and have adventures!

This particular day they found a great mud pond to play in!

Friendships formed from a simple exchange while buying groceries...this is grace...this is blessing and my life is so much richer for it!
Thank you Hilda for following me to the fruit shop! :)

Martine

Around here....

2011-09-08T03:24:00.000-07:00

Lots of reading and knowing...
God really is here and He isn't silent...
John 10:27 Jesus, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them and they follow me."

We have two have groups from our church community that meet in our home and we gather and learn about knowing God and experiencing His power and transforming love and grace in our lives through Jesus Christ. I love these times...encouraging, community, enriching...

I went to a wonderful women's conference! The theme was FREEDOM that we have in Christ when we trust our lives and eternity to Him. The organizers of the conference showered beautiful treats on us and it was wonderful to be apart of!

Noah has started to learn a few letters...so cute seeing him learn and the hat above is his baker's hat (for the letter B) that he made at kindy!

A little bit more baking...Dan and I made these raspberry scones, although they don't look so great when you pile jam and cream on the top they came up a treat!

Just some random things from around here....

Martine

Backyard picnics...its spring at last!

2011-09-07T01:30:00.000-07:00

"Hey mum! We could have a picnic in the backyard!"
Noah loves a backyard picnic and what a better way to eat a spring afternoon tea!

Byron tried his first piece of watermelon and LOVED it!

So does this guy!

Hello spring, hello bare feet and goodbye socks!

Martine

To all the sleep deprived ones...

2011-09-06T02:57:00.000-07:00

Hmmm.....if many weeks and months of sleep deprivation ensues due to teething, frequent waking and babies needing extra pacing around the house in the wee hours of the morning (that has been our last few months with sickness and a young teething baby)....

Here is a recipe to make it through the last few hours of the day (when you feel like you might fall asleep standing up :) well what I find helps....

Step 1. Get out of the house!!

Step 2. Go for a drive to a place you love to be...for me this particular afternoon, it was a drive through the bush to Samford...

Step 3. Take energetic children to the PARK (such a great community space)...you might even get a few minutes rest while energetic children burn off some energy!

Step 4. Walk laps around the park and *hope* that an overtired child falls asleep!

Step 5. Smile! Wear dark sunglasses :) and the sleep deprivation will seem to subside under the big yellow sun!

Step 6. End the day with a treat! Then you will all be smiling!

Martine

Byron is seven...months that is! :)

2011-09-05T02:47:00.000-07:00

"Hey Dad....the dummy is just a little bit too far..."

...a favourite pose by Byron...its hilarious!
I will find him with a sock in his mouth and he will be happily chewing away on it!

...we love your gorgeous smile...

...and your favourite toys are kitchen utensils! Maybe a future master chef in the making?

We love you Byron!

A favourite little song....

Jesus loves Byron this I know
For the Bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak but Jesus is strong

Yes! Jesus loves Byron!
Yes! Jesus loves Byron!
Yes! Jesus love Byron!
The Bible tells me so

Martine

Happy Father's Day Dan!

2011-09-04T02:31:00.000-07:00

It's true! You are!

...a tie for you...

...an Octonauts artwork signed by the artist :) ...

...and a monster tent...

...I'm looking forward to surfing holidays camping by the beach with you and the boys!

Happy Father's Day Dan! We love you!

Malachi 4:6
"He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their father..."

Martine

To a very beloved niece and cousin!

2011-09-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday Sophie!

We LOVED celebrating with you!

Eight is a fantastic age - may you have many wonderful adventures this year!
Love Aunty Marty, Uncle Dan and your cousins Noah and Byron who love you very much!

Martine

Gather....

2011-08-10T01:18:00.000-07:00

I love to gather...
...all kinds of things...
...tea-cups and the sharing of life over a simple cup of tea....

...maybe to gather for some vanilla bean cheesecake and conversation about faith and womanhood and the difference Jesus makes in our lives...

...gather to pray and seek God...

...gather with friends and throw a frisbee and eat boerwors...

...gather for a photo shoot of my favourite three...

...gather with the oldest in the family and the youngest...

...gather the generations...

...gather to wonder at the miracle of life...

...and gather for a family shot...

Noah just saw this shot with Dan's family and asked "where is our other family mummy?"

Its a blessing to have family some close by, others a bit further away and others around the other side of the world.
Its always a joy to gather with our friends new and old, strangers, extended family and our little family. The joy God gives us as we gather together and spend time.

~just some musings about my love to gather :)~

Martine

He will...

2011-08-09T03:45:00.000-07:00

A verse from the Bible I have drawn lots of encouragement from lately....

Isaiah 40:11

He will take care of His flock like a shepherd;

He will gather the lambs together and carry them in his arms;

He will gently lead their mothers.

What a priviledge and a gift that the God of the universe leads and encourages those He has entrusted precious children to. In fact, God loves to lead His people when they seek Him and invite Him into the everyday moments of their lives. God's grace is available to all through Jesus' death and resurrection. He gently and lovingly leads us to Himself...the true source of life.

Martine

Its the simple things...

2011-08-08T02:58:00.000-07:00

In our ever full life sometimes my favourite thing to do is to have some space to spend a day at home...not go anywhere, have to be anywhere but just be with my precious sons! The day isn't really defined by anything spectacular but maybe taking a trike ride around with your favourite books in the boot (if your Noah)... you have to love Lassie :)

...big boy Byron chilling in the washing basket :)

Noah excavating some killer rocks...

...duplo joy...

...a little den to eat morning tea for our four year old tiger...

Joy...

Thankyou Lord for simple days when we can feel your love and great joy in us...

Martine

Our weeks that were....

2011-08-06T02:44:00.000-07:00

Noah's early morning "Grader" research while trying to keep warm!

Cherishing six month old Byron...so so cute :)

...backyard camping antics...
Noah is anticipating the day when he and Dan sleep outside in the tent!
"When the weather gets warmer mummy!"

Every young knight needs to polish his sword :)
Dan and I were given this sword for a wedding present from his parents...reminding us of God's word and the powerful role it plays in the Christians life....
Hebrews 4:12
"The word of God is living and active...sharper than any two edged sword..."

After arriving home around dinner time the other day I was greeted by "super boy Noah"...."Hi there super Mummy! I am cutting us up vegetables for dinner!" I'm glad he is keeping us healthy :)

Ready for church and Byron has sneakers! Not that he needs them but they sure do look cute!

Here is to another week...

Thankyou Jesus for each day you give us and the strength you give to live, truly live in you.

Martine

Christmas in July....

2011-08-01T01:46:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night we gathered with some of our church family for Christmas in July!

The table was set and the bunting was hung....

...my very excited interior stylist (aka Noah) set up the nativity scene...

...Santa's little helper was sweating on opening his present and giving the others out!

...then it was time to gather the family for a christmas shot...

...almost there...

...the "family"...

...our lil' party animal recuperating the next day :))

Christmas in July was really fun...great to spend Christmas in cooler weather without sweating it out!
Let's do this again next year!

Martine

Dressing up...

2011-07-28T02:37:00.000-07:00

Dressing up starts to get serious when....

...you meet the real thing...

...and he shows you his armour...

...time to practice some stealth pony ride moves...

...then get some horse-riding inspiration...

...Noah has been loving "pretend" jousting with Dan...

Medieval festival thankyou for your joy, life, peasants food and elderflower cordial!
We will be back next year - I hope!

Martine

Around here....

2011-07-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

A little bit of sunflower love...

Bread baked by Granny Sandy! :)

Byron getting close to the action in his makeshift highchair :)

Definitely more cooking!

Noah "hugging" a wallaby :)

Remembering how much God really does love and take delight in us...

Zephaniah 3:17
"The Lord your God is with you...
The Lord will take delight in you,
and in His love He will give you new life.
He will sing and be joyful over you..."

And this 'lil guy is almost 6 months and two teeth have made an appearance! Ouch for Byron!

Martine

Winter = Holidays!

2011-07-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

Holidays = time to read surrounded by stillness...

and time to roast marshmallows by the fire!

Holidays= time with family.

Holidays= time to breathe in crisp, cold air and enjoy the view!

Holidays= fun!

I'm so thankful for the time we had in the bush with my family. Time to relax, recharge and stop doing much but enjoy finding a bargain in a country op-shop, great food and sit by the fire reading design magazines! I love winter holidays!

Martine

Winter is...days by the beach enjoying the sunshine...

2011-07-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

How precious, O God, is your constant love! We find protection under the shadow of your wings. You are the source of all life, and because of your light we see the light. Psalm 36: 7, 9

Jesus says, "I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will never walk in darkness...."
John 8: 11-13

" Like all my ancestors I am only your guest here on earth a little while...." Psalm 39: 12

God's love is like the ocean....as I lay back and float in his unending love for me, (demonstrated through giving Jesus to die on my behalf)... His love is unending, it endures forever, it is perfect, it is strong, it is inexhaustible, full, free, we can know His love....

³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹ neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8; 38-39

Martine

Winter is.....

2011-07-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

The annual Abbey Medieval Festival! We were loving dressing up this year...humble peasants with a knight in training son!

Even hard working peasants need food...

Byron loving the deer skin :)

and pureed apple :)

Dan and Noah fine-tuning their battle skills!

More photos to come!

Martine

The wind...the breezy type that is...

2011-06-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

On a particularly windy day while feeling a bit of cabin fever it was time for us to get out and walk...

...being transported in the red chariot (+kite)...

...to the park to fly Noah's kite!

Although Noah's kite looks dangerously close to power lines it wasn't :), it did fly into goal posts a few times though!

...our handsome boys...

...the wind reminds me of God...how even though we can't see the wind we can see the affects of the wind...

It takes faith to believe.

Martine

The weeks that were...

2011-06-13T02:53:00.000-07:00

Oh....these two...so cute! They get me every time!

"Mummy! I'm going to wear my fireman helmet to church this morning!"

Early mornings and trying to keep warm!

Beautiful roses....thankyou Dan...

...mmmm....pumpkin...

...a new giraffe to love...

...ready for food...

...Byron, Sel and lamby...

Our weeks have been filled with change.
To be honest I would love if time stood still for just a little while so that I could hold onto things being the same...well...even just for a little while. But life isn't like that and time doesn't stand still.

Even though sometimes change can seem scary with God's help I can meet each day with His strength and perspective. With each new day I'm able to experience a day that has never been lived before...fresh with new grace from God, strength from Him to tackle the constant change that occurs and know that He holds my present and my future.

I'm grateful knowing that,

God never changes and His grace is new every morning.

Martine

Taking some advice....

2011-06-12T02:01:00.000-07:00

...from the youngest member of the family....

Martine

A new adventure has begun!

2011-05-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

Our big laddie Noah started kindy today! Yesterday, after we came home from church Noah says, "Mummy! I'm going to make a lion mask to wear to kindy in the morning. My teacher will get such a surprise!"

So our very excited boy set off to kindy with his huge bag on his back packed with all the things he might need...including his Buzz Lightyear toy to cuddle at rest time:)

When it was time for kindy to start Noah ran off to his teacher not giving Dan or I a backward glance....we called him back for a kiss, cuddle and goodbye!

He is off on his next adventure that God has for him....

Martine

Around here...

2011-05-11T18:08:00.002-07:00

Mother's Day!

Nightimes...

...sometimes a good read is all you need at the end of a big day... :)

....or a bath...

...definitely sleep (if your four months old)...

...and a piece of chocolate cake to polish off!

Good times!

Martine

A little birthday day...

2011-05-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

Twas my birthday a little while ago...it started well with pancakes and ice-cream for breakfast...

...a walk along a windswept beach...

...finding things the floods had washed out to sea and back again...

...it ended with a "Fifi the poodle" cake made by Dan...

...shared with my family...

Here is to another year of life living with God's presence in my everyday, with His love surrounding me, His son Jesus teaching me and learning and growing along the way....

Cheers!

Colossians 1: 27, "God's plan is to make known his secret....this rich and glorious secret which He has for all peoples...and the secret is that Christ is in you!"

Martine

The long weekends...

2011-05-02T22:40:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Easter in Gympie....

Noah's stash...he is still steadily eating his way through many a chocolate.

Chickens and bunnies :)

Time with my lovely sister :)

Grandad - John, Noah, Granny and Byron :)

Beautiful skies...

Random shots taken over Easter weekend in Gympie!

Martine

The art of....

2011-04-26T13:43:00.000-07:00

...building a fire...

....make sure you have a seasoned professional by your side (if your four)...

...fan the flame.,.

...watch it grow...

...then cook some snags...

We had a lovely time with my parents over the Easter weekend enjoying the quiet and peace of the country and remembering Jesus...
His death....His life and the fire He has put in our hearts...

Martine

You have arrived safely at your destination....

2011-03-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

After enjoying the drive to Stanthorpe we were all keen to get out of the car and explore the main street...

I have found my new favourite shop - its called Pure Heaven (www.pureheaven.com.au)...

It was a treasure trove of creative beauty and vintage charm and I look forward to going back there with a bit more time to do some shopping!

The very welcome colder weather in Stanthorpe brought out the winter woolies! Finally, I could dress Byron in his cute beanie and cardy combo (thanks Granny Sandy!).

Our country retreat was complete, with a little cabin, wood fire and a walk to the pond to spot the wild wood ducks and their ten ducklings....

Stanthorpe we will be back and thankyou God for this little get away :)

Martine

Our little road trip...

2011-03-21T12:58:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we headed out of the city (yay!) and headed to the country. As much as I love living in the city, the country girl in me always loves getting away to quieter places where the pace slows down, the air is crisper and natural beauty abounds. Our destination was Stanthorpe, a beautiful town about three hours drive south-west of Brisbane. Amazingly the trip did take three hours on the way there (Byron slept on the way:) but on the way back it took more like five hours! The trip back we will put down to experience....its not ideal to drive a long distance with a newborn baby during their feeding hours! So after many feed spots, a few tears on Byron's part and many "Are we nearly home yet? I really wish we were home...." from Noah, Dan and I, we finally did pull into our driveway.

Both Dan and I had never been to Stanthorpe and it was a mini adventure to explore some new spots while Dan conducted a wedding.

I took a few photos on the drive to remember the sights as we drove along....

Spectactular Cunninghams Gap...

Enjoying the open road....

Martine

These moments...

2011-03-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

...handsome Byron at seven weeks is giving us lots of smiles and he loves a chat...

...Noah has tamed our chickens Minnie and Moo and they quite like short visits inside :)...

...lots of cuddles all day...

...and some skate boarding and scootering fun!...

Martine

The animals...

2011-03-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

Noah's animal dress up party inspired some crazy animals... a panda, a 1950s housewife cat, a vintage cat...

...a chicken (inspired by our very own Minnie and Moo:)...

...a very cute Zebra called Zebulon and a lovely ladybug...

...an animal doctor (thankfully his services were not required) and his panda wife :)) and the youngest party-goer tiger cub Byron at 6 weeks :))

Martine

Some more party fun!

2011-03-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

...the toucan (aka pinata)...

...a backyard jungle...

...a tiger cake for our little tiger...

Martine

Seven Years!!

2011-03-15T00:17:00.000-07:00

Today Dan and I (with Noah and Byron) celebrated our seventh wedding anniversary! We had been wanting to go to Max Brenner Chocolate Cafe for ages and each time we had gone to eat there the line up was all the way out the door! But on a quiet Monday morning we made our way in and sampled the chocolate delights of Max Brenner.

It was definently worth the wait!

We had to get some take-away Max Brenner as well :) A chocolate babka with chocolate sauce - yummo! It reminded me of a very funny Seinfeld episode revovling around a chocolate babka :) It was a great way to celebrate seven fantastic years of marraige - yay!

Martine

I'm four! I'm four! I'm four! I'm four!

2011-03-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

Our little tiger...

....celebrated turning four on the weekend!

An animal dress-up party was his request...

...with his tiger family in tow!

ps. More photos to follow :)

Martine

Dreams do come true...

2011-03-08T19:22:00.001-08:00

Dan to Noah: "Noah what do you want to be when you grow up?"
Noah: "A fireman!"
After thinking awhile Noah to Dan: "Daddy, do boys and girls dreams really come true?"

Yes they do!

Noah pores over a very old golden book that is all about firemen and it has inspired his current desire to be a fireman. At different times during the week I'll say something like, "Noah, your going to grow up to be a strong man just like your daddy!" and he is always quick to reply in all seriousness, "No mummy, I'm going to be a fireman..."

Fireman Sam is his current favourite choice of viewing material...."Mummy, I need to watch Fireman Sam so that I know how to put out fires and break down houses and stuff."

"Why do you want to be a fireman Noah?"
"So I can save people from fires and so I can rescue cats and dogs from trees."

I love my almost four year old!

Martine

A month of firsts....

2011-02-19T22:14:00.000-08:00

First smiles...

First meetings...("Hello Vienna" :)

First pie named in your honour! (Thankyou Liz!)

First daddy cuddle....

This past first month of Byron's life has been a truly beautiful time. We have felt the love and support of God strength, our friends and family! Thankyou all so much!

While you are sleeping...

2011-02-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

Hi there little (or not so little) Byron....while you are sleeping :)) I'm enjoying some blogging :)

Thankyou Aunty Lu for the gifts from afar...Byron particularly likes his H&M cap :))

A granny made hat to grow into....

and one to wear in the air-conditioning now :))

We are loving this new season...adjusting to lots of sitting and feeding, night waking :), precious times of milky smiles and slow days...

A little dutch tradition...look what the stork dropped in :)

2011-01-29T21:42:00.000-08:00

While in Holland I loved that when a baby was born the families house was decorated with beautiful bunting, balloons, signs, storks etc to herald new life!

Upon coming home on Wednesday afternoon, I was greeted by the most gorgeous decorations sent over by my sister who is living in Holland....thankyou so much Lu! Check out her blog La Petite Lu Lu....

Rough translation - "Hooray for the new boy!"

-so much love-

Martine

Praise!

2011-01-28T21:12:00.000-08:00

In God's perfect timing being overdue 12 days :)) Byron Daniel entered the world at 9:58am, Monday 24th January 2011!!!
After a quick birth, Dan, Noah and I were overjoyed to meet our miracle baby - and I'm praising God for this beautiful bundle of blessing from God.

Our big boy weighed in at 4.16 kg (9 pound 2), he is healthy, content and loves lots of cuddles :))
Amazingly, Noah was born on a Monday morning at 9:58am as well :)

Noah has been loving Byron and quite enjoying being the "big brother" :)

Dan and I feel very relieved to have our blessing in our arms...a little boy with God's divine hand upon him.
Thankyou for your love and prayers and I'm looking forward to sharing more of our story in this space.

-All praise to the Father who showers us with every good gift-

Martine

Inspiration....

2011-01-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

If you feel like an inspiring read and beautiful photos of "where creative people live, work and play", Spaces by Frankie Magazine is fantastic!

Afternoon Tea by Frankie Magazine has also been inspiring some baked treats in our home!

Yum!

These new tunes have also been inspiring some kitchen dance moves:) A great album!

Martine

A spot of nesting...

2011-01-09T17:21:00.000-08:00

Hmmm...the other morning the overwhelming need to sew, bake, clean and reorganise cupboards overtook me :))
Needless to say, the nesting instinct gets alot done in a short amount of time! I made Noah a new pyjama bag - I love the cute camping material!

Of course, new shorts were needed and cot sheets too - so I whipped some up:)

...and yes more baking... :))

Martine

Also enjoying...

2011-01-07T21:10:00.000-08:00

...the colour GREEN...
Such a beautiful change from the brown of years past - thanks to all the rain the heavens have been showering our corner of the world with!

...ICE-CREAM...

...RESTING...

...and looking forward to being able to travel to the beach again soon and have a dip once bubs is born!!

Martine

P.S - Thanks to Hyde Park, London for the sweet GREEN photo and the ice-cream chair, Musee D'Orsay, Paris for the snap of Van Gogh's work and the amazing Cinque Terre, Italy for giving us a wonderful time at the beach!

Been enjoying...

2011-01-06T20:57:00.000-08:00

...the antics of these growing chickies...

...the growing delight of Noah...

...some classic recipes with a great apprentice by my side...

...and a cup or four of raspberry leaf tea with a slab of cake of course!
I hope you are having a wonderful week!

Martine

The week that is...

2011-01-05T02:04:00.000-08:00

Its 2011 - no denying it and along with a new year, comes a new haircut or two....
I endeavoured to cut Noah's hair yesterday in very hot, steamy weather and unfortunately I did a rather nasty looking haircut on Noah due to much squirming and squealing and hair sticking to Noah's very sweaty body! So haircut round number two was when Dan got home from work: a daddy cut, in the airconditioning with a raincoat on resulted in a great looking "do" for the youngest member of the family! I have officially handed over haircutting duties to Dan!

Beautiful blooms are adorning our table....

...from my very thoughtful husband :)

....this week (maybe) our little trio will become a quartet!

Martine

A wise owl....39weeks and we are almost there!

2011-01-04T22:38:00.001-08:00

A wise old owl with sage advice says...

...keep watching and praying and enjoying the HOT weather...
...seeing your ankles disappear into cankles :)...

...your 39 weeks old little bubba...
...we can't wait to meet you...
"Daddy, who makes tummy's go flat once the baby comes out of mummy's tummy??" asked Noah.

...we will keep trusting, surrendering and praising you amazing God for your goodness to our family...

Martine

A Happy Sparrow's Collage...

2010-12-29T21:28:00.000-08:00

-Trust-
-Surrender-
-Praise-

Some things I have been learning this season from the Saviour...

Merry Christmas to you!

2010-12-22T21:34:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you!
Love Martine, Dan, Noah and Jnr

Around here....

2010-12-22T21:23:00.000-08:00

A sneaky surprise birthday gathering for Dan! Noah and I enjoyed decorating the house for the arrival home of Dan from Tasmania!

Thankyou Donna Hay magazine for some cake decorating ideas!

Noah (and Dan&I) are eagerly anticipating Christmas and...

celebrating Jesus - the gift of grace to all who will recieve Him.

We are also can't wait to hold our newest member of our family - only 3 weeks to go :))

For this child I prayed; and the Lord has given me my petition that I asked of Him.
1 Samuel 1: 27

Martine

A little vintage Saint Nicholas collection..

2010-12-14T21:27:00.000-08:00

These beautiful vintage Saint Nicholas' are gracing my mum's house at the moment - just beautiful!

"Then let us sing amid our cheer,
Old Christmas comes but once a year."
Thomas Miller

Martine

A little vintage Christmas cheer...

2010-12-12T21:22:00.000-08:00

"Come, sing a hale Heigh-ho for the Christmas long ago!
When the old log cabin homed us from the night of blinding snow,
Where the rarest joy held reign,
and the chimney roared amain,
With the firelight like a beacon
Through the frosty window-pane."
James Whitcomb Riley

Martine

The week that was...

2010-12-12T00:23:00.000-08:00

Kite flying and watching by the sea...

Dan's early birthday cheese cake!

"Noah the Lion-tamer" ready to hit his friends circus party (he even wore a lion's tail:))...

...and one big baby belly - four and a bit weeks until we meet our miracle :))

"Because your love is faithful, you will lead the people you have set free.
Because you are so strong, you will guide them to the holy place where you live."
Exodus 15: 12-14

Advent - 24 sleeps to go

2010-11-30T20:45:00.000-08:00

A Christmas past...

May the celebrations begin!

Thanks for the great photos Mitchell :)

Life, Live, Laugh...

2010-11-28T00:54:00.000-08:00

"My heart exults in the Lord;
my strength is exalted in my God....
There is no Holy One like the Lord,
no one besides you;
there is no Rock like our God."
1 Samuel 2:1-2

Martine

Around here...

2010-11-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

Enjoying the markets....

A ferry ride...

Christmas cake baking...

...and the arrival of Santa (aka Dan!!) at our local playgroup Christmas party! It was hilarious! Dan did a fantastic job as Santa (apparently the most lively and upbeat Santa playgroup had ever had!).
Noah was sitting quietly watching Santa and I asked him if he wanted to sit on Santa's lap and he said, "Its Daddy!!" So there was no photo with Santa! :)

Martine

Some new animal friends...

2010-11-23T18:58:00.000-08:00

We have had a little bit of pet care experience over the last few years enjoying the fishy company of 3 fighting fish (our current fish has lasted almost a year!) - its a record! We became the caretakers of alot of silk worms and Noah LOVED them (thankyou Debbie!).
He would get the worms out and they would dance (or so Noah said), creep over cushions and get lots of cuddles :)

Our weekly adventure was to find more mulberry leaves and sadly the worms have graduated, spun cocoons and flown the nest :)

Two weeks ago our 9 week old chickens Minnie and Moo moved in...

Such great, low maintenance pets and looking forward to when they start laying eggs!!

Martine