dear olive

A Romantic Comedy

2012-02-16T15:20:00.002+11:00

Dear Olive,

In the spirit of Valentines Day, I thought I’d write you a story, starring me as the young woman, and your Dad as the good looking drummer.

Opening act: We begin our story on a Thursday night happy hour in a pub in Newtown, where wefind our main characters, with mutual friends, playing pool anddrinking $2 schooners. Our young woman is all of 21, full youthful insecurities and alcohol, and clearly a little intimidated by her older (& far far cooler) pool partner. There is a little innocent flirting* but the night endsuneventfully and the two of them leave separately, unaware of their fate yet to unfold with each other. Cut to: A few years on and our two protagonistsget to know each other a little more when one of them is dating another guy inthe other one’s band. We see a montage of a few nights out, some drinking, a bit of dancing, chatting at a friends wedding (more flirting!), lots of laughter, good times. Cut to: Afew years later, we now find our main characters both working on the same commercial.Our young woman, now 30, now single, is surprised by how exciting it is to see ouralso-now-single and still-good-looking-drummer. They eat lunch together andlaugh and there is a twinkle in our young woman’s eye. She thinks the good looking drummer is going toask her out. She lingers around at the end of the day, packing slowly tomake sure he has enough time to come and find her and sweep her off her feet.But after stretching it out for as long as she could, she realises she must get going. Shedrives past the art department to say goodbye, only to be told he’d already headed off. Well, she thinks, as she fails to hide the disappointment on herface. Two weeks later, she starts work on a new show … and guess who she drivespast on the way out after her first day … that’s right, our good looking drummeris also working on the same show. Will this be the moment our two characters succumb to destiny and give in to passion? Yes, a few weeks later we finally see the two of them get together (let's face it, a good looking drummer can only resist a young woman’s charms for so long!). We see that, from the beginning, it feels like the most comfortable thing in the world, and even though they’ll have their share of ups and downs, it appears a solid union, built on love and friendship. No one has ever made the young woman laugh like the good looking drummer, andthat is a wonderful thing. Final Scene: our couple, now engaged to be married, are laughing and jumping on thebed. Pan back to reveal they now have a cute kid. And a cat. Music plays in the back ground as they all laugh with love in their smiles. Roll credits.

*technically this is unconfirmed, as good looking drummer doesn’tactually remember meeting young uni student

Photo Shirin Town.

Weekender

2012-02-10T14:14:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
We'll be passing away the hours of forecast rain with some indoor showers. Weekend happy. Happy weekend.

Wearing

2012-02-09T16:48:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
A few more outfits walking out the door of the dear olive house. I suppose one of these days I should try to do an edition of these where I'm not wearing any gorman. Looking at these I realise how desperately I need a hair cut.
Heading out for an early dinner at our local Italian.
I'm wearing: lover denim shirt, gorman skirt, asos shoes
You're wearing: country rd shirt, vintage cord dress, vans

Off to something forgettable on a Sunday afternoon. (Might have been the supermarket!) I have to pretend I'm calling a martian to get you even vaguely interested in standing there.

I'm wearing: country rd t, gorman pants, saltwater sandals

You're wearing: zara shirt, minti shorts, saltwater sandals

This, That

2012-02-08T14:08:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
I think we are finally into the swing of a new year. Shane's back at work full time, I'm back doing days here and there, and our weeks have begun to take on the shape of something resembling a predictable rhythm, beneath the unpredictability of it all. One thing I didn't see coming, was lion taking over as top ~~dog~~ cat around here. I think Juany has finally been removed from his perch! Or perhaps it's just a passing phase. According to you lion does not like heights. Lion cries and cries and cries at the garbage truck, lion does not like loud noises. Lion does not like falling over. Lion is scared of dogs. If you ask me, Lion sounds a dreadful bore.

P.S.

2012-02-02T14:50:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
I can't believe I forgot to include these two things in my what you're up to round up .... firstly, you're really into making up songs - about anything. Yesterday you were rocking sideways on a chair and you said I know a song about sideways and it goes like this ... sideways, sideways, sideways. The day before that we saw a friend and her daughter, Ada, and you said. I know a song about Ada and it goes like this ... Ada, Ada, Ada. Sometimes I suggest some, um, more, lyrics, which you always poo poo. Although you did recently have a break through song about Daddy which went Daddy, Daddy, Daddy, I love you. It's a hit for sure. The second thing I wanted to include is that you are always asking questions. And when I say you're always asking questions I mean What's that noise Daddy's making? What that lady say? What you doing Mummy? What are you eating? What's this singer called? What's this song called? What they singing about? What are you getting ready for, Mummy? What you say on the phone, Mummy? Who's that talking to you? Always. Asking. Questions.
It's a cabin feverish, crafty, cubby building-ey kind of day here. You're keeping it interesting with some crazy accessorising.

Wearing

2012-02-01T14:52:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Guess who crashed our party - literally walked right through our what we're wearing shoot last week? That's right, this lady from bondi, and this lady from far north queensland. We were on our way out to dinner separately, but came together for a few fabulous minutes of fashion in our driveway.
I'm wearing: vintage blouse, scanlon & theodore pants, gorman shoes, vintage wallet.
You're wearing: a birthday suit. It's wearing and washing really well, almost getting better with age - totally worth the exorbitant purchase price.
Claire's wearing: isabel marant top, gorman skirt, vintage belt, asos sandals.
Lalie-Bug's wearing: vintage blouse, seed shorts, saltwater sandals, cheeky too cool for this attitude all her own.
Miriam's wearing: garage sale singlet, sportsgirl pants, tony bianco sandals, gorman bangle, belt from who knows where.

2.3.6

2012-01-30T15:19:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,

I thought I'd tell you a little bit of where you're up to. Where you're up to at two years, three months, and six days. ~~Wild~~ Busy is a word that springs to mind pretty quickly. Just this morning, after torturing Pepper, you wreaked havoc at the library wearing only undies and sandals, then you pushed the contents of a shelf onto the floor at the health food store, and followed it up with a bush poo on the pavement. Clothes, to you, are optional. As is every request - regardless of the tone it's delivered - Shane or I give you. Talkative is another word that comes to mind. I could listen forever to your endless commentary and make believe play. Your imagination is amazing. You now have a make believe kitten called meea. She's black. And tiny, tiny, tiny. (Apparently. She's make believe, so I haven't seen her to confirm.) To see you (pretend to) pick her up so gently is The. Sweetest. Thing. Socialising - especially with kids exactly your age - is still really challenging for you (and for me). There is lots of snatching and physical aggression, and always about sharing. Although I've been very impressed a few times lately to see you using your words, and asking for a turn. (Use your words. My mantra! It's working!) In complete juxtaposition of your high energy antics, is your adorable cuddly side. And you love books, books, books. Sometimes I'm sent hoarse from reading. You choose lots to take to bed with you, and I can hear you turning the pages and sometimes reciting passages out loud. I think that'll do for a bit of you at two years, three months, and six days. It's exhausting me just thinking about it! Exhausting, in a fun and cheeky and determined way. We love you.

Yours, Mine

2012-01-27T13:47:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
I'm always interested to know what other people feed themselves and their kids, so I thought I'd start sharing some of our meals. We try to eat pretty healthy over here, with limited refined sugar, or anything too processed. But of course, there are exceptions, like ice cream, or sausage rolls with loads of tomato sauce. But I think (I hope!), that it's ok to have the crappier treats sometimes if in general you're eating lots of the good stuff.
Anyway, for lunch today you were served up leftover roast pumpkin (cooked in coconut oil with salt, powdered ginger and turmeric) plus a boiled egg thrown in for some protein. (You and I each eat at least an egg per day.) Looking at the photo it looks a little on the meagre side! But you were super happy with it.

For me, it was leftover roast lamb, with (*gasp* store bought!) aioli, sweet sweet cherry tomatoes and lettuce on kamut bread toast. It was the tastiest sandwich I've had in a while.

I wonder what everyone else is eating?

Quarter Past

2012-01-25T14:27:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
A photo for every hour of your day.
6:15. Books. Lots of books in my bed.

7:15. Breakfast for you - banana on kamut bread.

8:15. Breakfast for me. Blueberry super smoothie.

9:15. Tea.

10:15. Walk to the park.

11:15. Climbing to the slide. While staring at girl on swing.

12:15. Lunch. Avocado on mountain bread.

1:15. A lovely friend drops around with lunch for me.

2:15. Pepper chilling on the kitchen floor. Vainly hoping for more food.

3:15. Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the dustiest of them all?

4:15. Blueberry nose.

5:15. You is feeling sick, Mummy?

6:15. Self-sufficient on the toilet.

7:15. Daddy!

Weekend

2012-01-23T13:44:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
We had a great weekend. Although, thinking back on it, I can't really remember what we did! There was a lot of food. And there was a lot of tennis. Usually together. I cooked a really yummy chicken and sweet potato curry* with cucumber relish for a friend** who came over to watch the tennis on Friday night (recipe here). Saturday, a friend dropped off two fish he'd just caught. Caught! We made two more delicious meals out of them and gobbled them down. Although, that was Shane and I. You ate a lot of eggs, served every which way, and you listened to your Holly Throsby record. A lot. (To say you're obsessed is an understatement.) Also, where's your mullet gone? It's morphed into a rats tail. I think you've been twisting it up and pulling it out, which is a bit of a worry.

*I've made it before and this time I tweaked it with more curry, less liquid. It's really fragrant and totally yum.
**This talented lady. I visited her studio on Sunday - it's all very exciting, she's having an exhibition soon. Info to come!

Wearing

2012-01-17T17:26:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
I'm not sure why I've never properly gone down the what I'm wearing road before, as we are most interested in the threads we get around in in the dear olive household. So, no more hiding in the closet, I do declare! Here are a couple of days in clothes for all three of us.
PS do you like the new dear olive header? Designed by my friend Brian. (Thanks Brian! You're amazing!).
First up: off to yum cha
I'm wearing: gorman singlet & chambray shirt, country rd skirt, saltwater sandals
You're wearing: hand me down dress and scruffy dog shoes, desire not to participate all your own

Riding off for a few hours of freedom.
I'm wearing: Gorman shirt, bonds black singlet, old mens Levi's 501 shorts, ASOS brogues, wind in my hair

These were technically test shots. He may look bored but he's actually having a terrific time. On the inside.
Shane's wearing: acadamee denim shirt, lowes shorts, havaianas

I wish I had Shane's ease in front of the camera!
Shane's wearing: rodd & gunn (!) shirt, lowes shorts, zara shoes

Off to the Sydney Festival Holly Throsby show.

I'm wearing: extremely unironed vintage blouse, black singlet from somewhere, sass & bide jeans, ASOS brogues

You're wearing: country rd singlet, thief & bandit leggings, vans

Home Holiday

2012-01-16T10:48:00.002+11:00

Dear Olive,
Our holiday at home has turned out to be most excellent. Just the right mix of laziness*, activity**, and 3 o'clock beers***. And, guess what? It's continuing for a few - unexpected - more days because Shane isn't starting until Wednesday. Yessssssss. Nothing like the gift of a few surprise days to alleviate my anxiety about Shane going back to work, returning us to the ratio of one parent to one two year old, when two parents to one two year old is so preferable.
* laziness includes days with no plans, slow morning swims (& attempting to tan out of saltwater sandal tan), afternoon reading sessions developing into accidental naps, ignoring the washing up.
** activity includes visiting our friends at the duck pond, picnics at Nielsen Park, yum cha in chinatown, watching the holly throsby sydney festival kids show (highly recommended - you've wanted her album on repeat ever since), and dinners with friends (at home and out).
*** 3 o'clock beers includes beer, cider and champagne (just Mum and Dad, of course), at the pub and at home (of course).

The Christmas Wrap

2012-01-10T15:10:00.002+11:00

Dear Olive,
This Christmas wrap up is, like, so three weeks ago. But we'll forge ahead regardless. Here's how our christmas wrapping turned out. I carved a potato and let you go wild with some food colouring (I won't make that mistake again, we were both blue for days). The spindly little aloe vera plant is my pathetic attempt at a christmas tree. I wasn't going to do a tree at all (so grinchy of me), but then I won (I won!) those lovely decorations over at Made by Mosey and I had to put them somewhere. Your two most played with christmas presents - the train set and the doctors kit. And then there's this photo, which I'm putting in just because. (Have I told you that Shane is the funniest person I know?) A whopping great diamond python zoomed it's way across that court only an hour before we played. C'mon!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-09T15:09:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
For the past two weeks, almost until the minute we walked back in the door, this life felt so far away. Like the hazy idea of a dream I knew I'd had but couldn't quite recall. There was nothing in the cicadas, the country air, the 3 o'clock beers, the morning swims, the paddocks, the constant eviction of the creepy crawlies, to remind us of this life. Our only real purpose for each day: eating and having fun. Both of which we were happy to fully oblige. Today, though, we are back. And our flat that we'd forgotten to remember feels so small compared with the peaceful expanse of Papa's property. And this life, the one that for two weeks felt so far away, is all too suddenly our only reality. How can that holiday feeling leave so fast? It was such a fantastic trip, full of laughs and love - you had a complete blast, staying up late, eating ice cream for the first time, perfecting the art of the bush wee. We had a super fun christmas day with my family, and a new years brought in with a few friends over a BBQ. Without dissections of the old year, or predictions for the coming. It was relaxed, it was easy. It was such fun. And unfortunately, a distant memory now*. Happy New Year to all!
These photos taken on a particularly memorable picnic in the Promised Land, by the Never Never Creek. It is as fantastical as it sounds. On this day, the stars aligned for the three of us and it was all perfect.
*I really shouldn't complain too much, Shane doesn't start work for another week, so this week we're holidaying at home!

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2011-12-20T13:53:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,

In a few days, our family of three will make our third annual Christmas pilgrimage up the highway to my Dads house. Until I was about 11, myfamily did that drive every year, up to our then holiday house (which would later become our everyday home), for enormous Christmases withcousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents. We'd pile into our yellow van that always over heated with the number plate that read 'herbs', with our thermos of iced water and our egg and lettuce sandwiches. Some of my most painful and boringchildhood memories involve sitting in that car, quarrelling at a dead standstill in unmoving traffic, in heat so searing it would fry an egg. And without airconditioning for fear of over heating the car. Of course. One particularly memorable trip, Mum and Dad made thedecision of our lives, finally caving at unrelenting nagging and pressure - wecould stop at McDonalds for breakfast. Hotcakes! Hash browns! We'd get the lot! One of everything! (I'd only ever had McDonalds once before, when my friends Dad smuggled burgers into the theatre to see Sweeney Todds, but I was far too nervous about getting into trouble for breaking the rule of no eating in the theatre to really enjoy it.) We could barely contain our excitement as we drove up to windowtwo to collect our food. At the last minute, I needed to go to the toilet, so while the rest of the family waited in the car, I ran in. It was busy thatday, crazy christmas crowds busy, and I had to wait impatiently in a long queue. When I finally returned to the car, eagerto indulge in the forbidden feast, I was greeted with the horrifyingnews like a slap in the face. A fight had broken out between Hayes and Anika, who were both now sitting red-eyed, weeping quietly. Dad, at the end of his tether, had snapped and tossed out our food. Our McDonalds, was gone. Gone? Even though I couldn't believe it, I knew it was true. Because I could see the crumpled, stomped on bags of untouched food staring at me from their sad resting place on the footpath outside my window. Thatwas the last time we stopped at McDonalds. As you and Shane andI set off in the car this year, I’ll be thinking about the little Christmas traditionsour family of three are forging for ourselves. I like it that one of them is following alongthe well worn path my own family trod for so many years. And there won’t be any McDonalds inours, either.

Merry and super jolly Christmas wishes to all! Thanks for reading xx

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2011-12-19T14:13:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
The contents of your Santa bag, as it currently stands. Could be considered a little on the thin side, I suppose. Although I have it on good authority that a gingerbread man may find his way in there too. But I'm happy to keep it simple. You'll also be receiving gifts from Shane and I, your Papa, and your Aunts and Uncles. It just starts to become crazy present overload. Tomorrow we're off to visit our favourite kids store, Shorties because in a complete turn of luck, I won (I won!) a voucher for a Christmas shopping spree. Shorties is literally crammed jammed with too good to believe clothes and toys, sending my heart all aflutter and paralysing me with cluttered choice whenever I'm there. Here's to hoping I do better tomorrow, for your and my nieces sake.
(And no, I don't iron my sheets. As you can see.)

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2011-12-16T16:36:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Oh! The places you'll go!

You'll be on your way up!

You'll be seeing the sights!

You'll join the high flyers

Who soar to high heights.

Kid, you'll move mountains.

(Dr. Suess)
1. Lots of rain = lots of puddle jumping.
2. Hydrangeas. Wickedly cut from a neighbours bush. To make matters worse, it's my third visit with the scissors.
3. We learnt that your bum gets hungry when you don't wear a nappy. (Although the whole toilet training thing is proving to be a bit hit and miss. Hit at home. Miss when we're out. You mostly want to wear nappies when we leave the house and I've just been going along with it.)
4. Our little hipster, vintage cowboy shirt buttoned all the way up. As you like it.
5. Making friends on a walk.

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2011-12-15T13:56:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
I went through a huge - HUGE - pom pom making phase when I was about 7. Right in the middle of my pom pom frenzy, my brother landed himself in hospital from a dog attack, and I attempted my most ambitious pom pom yet. With a template cut from an oversize dinner plate, and requiring my neighbours help, it was destined to cheer him up. Because, hey, what he may have lost in an eyebrow, he was going to gain in a giant, multicoloured pom pom. But even though I spent hours winding and winding the wool around and around and around, it was found many years later, discarded and crumpled in the bottom of a toy box, with only one eighth of it completed. A pom pom of that size would have been a huge floppy disappointment no doubt, anyway. That hard lesson learnt all those many years ago has has not been forgotten: I'm going to keep these ones small. Pom poms, it seems, are back. And who wouldn't love them? They're cute, they're colourful, they're easy to make, and a fun word to say. Pom pom. Pom pom. The plan is that they'll adorn all my christmas gifts this year. Blatantly ripping off the wrapping on a gift I received recently from a friend (Hi Rach! Sorry Rach!), I'm thinking maybe keep it simple with plain brown paper? Or perhaps I should let you loose with some kind of home made christmas tree carved potato stamper and some ink. Either way it'll be hours of pom pom fun for all the kids and cats come christmas day.

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2011-12-13T15:54:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
This is the book I mentioned in my last letter. For those who asked. It would make a really terrific christmas present*, what with it's cute cover and sweet, funny story. Along with this one which is a super read. I'd happily read it again tomorrow, even though I only finished it last week. And while we're on the book topic, everyone should read my All Time Favourite, at least once. You really haven't lived until you do.
*Disclaimer ... I am only half way through. I take no responsibility for a second half plot collapse, corny ending, or any other grossly disappointing turn.

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2011-12-07T13:36:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
A pot of tea. A rainy day. An unputdownable read. A three hour sleep. What more could I ask for?

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2011-12-06T13:05:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
Whatever you do when you grow up, don't be broke. It's a complete bore, I can assure you. I'm working a couple of days this week, which is a good thing. What with Christmas and presents and new black sandals in my sights and all. Broke or not, I couldn't go past these sweet little cheapies I saw at this etsy store.

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2011-12-05T14:15:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
I'm feeling emotionally distant from this place at the moment. I'm not sure why. There's a lot going on in our real life, it's a bit overwhelming. Or perhaps I'm just feeling mediocre, and well and truly out of ideas. Whichever the case, here's a bit of what we're up to ...
1. Toilet training. Not sure how it's going really, it's kind of been a half arsed effort on my behalf so far. We've had lots of wet clothes but also lots of wee's in the toilet. You will ONLY poo in a nappy. Your bum in pants without a nappy on is the cutest thing EVER.
2. Painting and other indoor activities. It's raining and it's cold. And we're hanging out at home (see number 1).
3. Someone just walked past whistling You're So Vain. They were an accomplished whistler.
4. Shane finishes his job soon and we're planning to spend christmas AND new years up north with my family. New years has the potential to be an absolute cracker. If we're still up at midnight, that is.
5. Play dates and socialising continue to be extremely challenging (for both of us). We have a lot of time outs.
6. I'm filling out enrolment waitlist forms at a few preschools. (gulp!)
7. I'm two weeks into a liver detox. No alcohol, no grain, no dairy, no caffeine, no red meat, and no many other good things. I am having lots of powders and herbs and potions (that turn my stomach just to think of them). Unsurprisingly, it's made me crazy moody. And I'm pretty moody to begin with.
8. I bought the Diane Keaton memoirs for a friends birthday and sneakily read it before I gave it to her. Great, great read.

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2011-11-28T13:06:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
The caring and helpful comments on my last letter were a lovely reminder of how amazing this space has been for support and making friends. It's really been the most incredible way for me to connect with other women and the friendships I've made here are ones I now treasure. So the couple of gifts that arrived in the post last week? An unexpected but beautiful icing on the cake. The amazing O, a birthday gift for you from everybody's favourite crafter (if she's not your favourite, make her yours, now!) Madeleine. And all the way from these extremely stylish folk in Germany, the cutest ever printed cord dress. It's cord! It's printed! And it's in your favourite colour! The plate and the pom pom were my lucky dip kris kringle gift from a very fun ladies christmas dinner on Saturday night, and although unrelated to the blog, I felt they were too good to be left out of this little ensemble. The whole set up didn't stand a chance, you became desperate to wear the currently oversize dress. As you pointed out, it is in your favourite colour. And there is no denying you these days.

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2011-11-21T14:51:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
Peonies, are lovely. You hitting other kids, is not. It's wearing me out and you had me in tears at the library this morning. Hopefully it'll prove to be one of those phases and in another month or year I'll be reminded of it somehow and say Oh that's right, Olive went through something like that, I'd forgotten about it. Hopefully.

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2011-11-16T12:43:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
When I was young, I had a dress just like this*. I had this book. And I decided it would be far better to be her, than me. So I changed my name, and for a few months, everyone - family, friends, teachers, had to call me Heidi. I wouldn't respond unless they did. I got over it, though, and went back to being me again. I wonder who you'll want to be?
* mine was brown. But it was the 70's so this was not only acceptable, it was highly fashionable.
PS Elephant memory? Yes, I briefly mentioned this story a long time ago here.

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2011-11-09T15:15:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
You were so happy last night. Crazy, screaming, beside yourself hyper happy. I said to Shane within your earshot she's so happy! I think it's because we've both been home all day. You said I is happy to see Daddy and gave him an enormous cuddle. Heart meltingly sweet stuff under normal circumstances. But delivered on the day Shane lost his Dad? Damn near broke my heart. What perceptive little fellows you kids are.

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2011-11-07T17:32:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Well we're back. Back from visiting my family up north for a week. It's basically in the country. There is a horse in the paddock, and a swing tied to a tree in the backyard that goes on forever. There are snakes on the terrace. And spiders in the car and in the bedroom. (The bedroom!) And up there the frogs give you the latest local barometric predictions. It's where your Papa and Rob live, where I grew up. And it's where Anika and Jimi have just moved to - what a fabulous reunion with cousin Roxy! And I got plenty of cuddles with my new niece who was mercilessly whipped away from me just after she was born. Unfortunately, though, it was not the best week to visit - you were dreadfully out of sorts with a nasty cough that kept both us both up all night, leaving you whingy and clingy during the day, and me devoid of the energy required to deal with it. But we still had lots of fun.

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2011-10-28T14:30:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,

I’ve been thinking about giving you more treats lately, for the sake of keeping things interesting for you, and as a replacement for sultanas and dates, which you are a total nut for. But I’m not keen to go down the refined sugar path, which we’ve managed to more or less avoid to this point. So I’m going to trial a few sugar free recipes with coconut oil and coconut flour. (To say I'm not known for my baking skills is probably a bit of an understatement.) On the menu for yesterday’s afternoon tea: strawberry & honey coconut muffins. Dairy, gluten and sugar free. Sound pretty terrible don’t they? Well our first victims came around and tasted them and they were actually quite delicious. Vewy vewy vewy yummy according to you, as you gobbled up two. Even Shane gave them the thumbs up and he usually turns his nose up at anything even vaguely along those healthy lines.

Recipe here. (I used melted coconut oil in place of the butter, honey for the liquid sweetener, and strawberries in place of blueberries purely for the fact that was all I had on hand.)

Cat vs Kid

2011-10-26T14:12:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
The perfect rainy afternoon in Peppers world - endless, undisturbed sleeping in the bed. The perfect rainy afternoon in your world - tea party in the bed with Pepper. Unfortunately for Pepper, the tea party proved too rowdy and she was forced to seek sleep elsewhere. Cat, zero. Kid, one.

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2011-10-25T14:25:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Have scooter, will ride.
Have dress, will party.
Have nose, will snot.

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2011-10-24T14:11:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Two years ago today, at just before ten o'clock in the morning, you came into my and Shane's arms and we were forever changed. You made us parents for the first time*, and showed us the incredible possibility of endless love. I’ve told you the story of your birth many times. How you were born, how incredibly amazing you were, how we could not believe it when we woke up the day after to find you asleep in the bed between us. We kept saying Can you believe it. Can you believe it. Over and over. And look at you now, two years on. A running, jumping, talking, screaming, bright, bossy, sensitive, demanding, hilarious, happy two year old. Who loves blueberries, books, swings, sultanas, Hey Jude, and tickles on the bed with Dad**. I’m still working you out I think, your real personality. Or maybe it'll turn out that you're just too close for me to really see you for who you are. Perhaps you'll always just be my divine, darling baby. Big happy happy birthday to you!

* making us parents for the first time that we know of Shane pointed out. I'm quite certain (in fact, I'd say 100%) that I don't have any, but I'm sure interested to meet any love children of your Dads.

** As soon as Shane gets home from you scream (you're really REALLY loud) and tear off yelling tickle on bed Daddy, tickle me on bed Dad.

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2011-10-21T14:44:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
You bought bath milk! came the cry from the kitchen after I told Shane there was milk in the fridge if he wanted to make a coffee. It took a bit of explaining (Shane is occasionally concerned that me and my naturopathic family are a little on the 'out there' side of things), but what can I say, we've totally jumped on the (somewhat controversial) raw milk bandwagon. Two high school girlfriends came around yesterday and, growing up in the country, they told me they drank it straight from a neighbours cow down the road. It'll come as no surprise to hear we don't have a cow in our Bondi flat. We don't even know anyone with a cow nearby. So we'll just have to buy our moonshine from the illicit trade at the health food store.

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2011-10-20T14:15:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
A visit to one of my best friends yesterday, and her new baby. It's beautiful to see them, filled with love for each other. But there's more to this bond than meets the eye. At 5 weeks old, the gorgeous little man has already endured a heart operation and weeks in hospital. I can't begin to conceive of what they've gone through, they're both so amazing. George had to go back to hospital today, so I'm sending him and Jen all my love and am hoping this is the last time they'll be seeing hospital walls for a long, long time. It reminds me how lucky we are that you've been so healthy so far. So much about this life seems like just luck of the draw stuff.
PS This one's especially for Jane and Lisa xx

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2011-10-18T14:30:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
So here it is. The Breastfeeding Update. You are *I think* weaned off the night feeds. Gasp! Yes, it's true. I did it. And it was actually, dare I say it, kind of easy peasy. You randomly slept through the night last Friday (for the second time, ever), and I thought this is it, this is my chance, you're already one night in. The next night getting you ready for bed, I said guess what babe, Mummy doesn't make any me-me at night anymore. You can have me-me before you go to bed, but then not again until you wake up in the morning. You cried. No close me-me! Make more me-me Mummy! You slept through again that night. I walked in after you woke up to find you clapping your hands and yelling Yay, more me-me in there now!!! (Are you getting the idea that you're slightly me-me obsessed? Correct!) And it's all gone pretty smoothly from there. You've slept through 6 nights out of the past 10. Unbelievable! On the nights you've woken up, I've given you a drink of water, a cuddle and a song and you've resettled easily. And now that I've got a bit of control back, and I've got you down to just three feeds a day, I feel really happy to keep things just the way they are.
PS We got a new camera this morning. Excitement plus! Can't wait to play!

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2011-10-17T15:02:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
We took that mullet of yours out and showed it how to have some fun in the sand on the weekend. It is seriously out of control, with basically nothing at the front, and long knotty locks cascading down the back. Sweet times with Shane on Sunday was just not enough. We miss him again already.

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2011-10-14T14:27:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
Shane's working long hours at the moment. He's not home much. And when he is, he's really tired. I barely see my husband-to-be, let alone get the chance to discuss Extremely Important topics like, oh, where and when will we get married. But where and when will we get married? We've been together for 5 years and we've got one child (that's you!). It seems silly to me that we'd have a long drawn out engagement; I'd just like to be married. So I'm all for doing it soon. Shane's all for waiting until he has time to think about all the decisions to be made. The whole thing's already starting to bore the pants off me and it's only been a few weeks. My parents eloped and I always thought it was really cool. It's starting to look like an appealing option to me too. Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman were married for 50 years (until Paul died). Good looking types in beautiful photos full of love. Enough to give the romantic in me a little wet eye. Joanne once said Sexiness wears thin after a while, and beauty fades, but to be married to a man who makes you laugh everyday, ah, now that's a real treat. How sweet is that.

Photos from here.

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2011-10-12T14:33:00.001+11:00

Dear Olive,
When I first started back at work all those months ago, I found it took a few days of each job for me to adjust to being back at work and being away from you. And then at the end of the job, I'd have a few days of feeling quite lost at being back at home with you. But I must have adapted, because there is no transition period anymore. I slip right on in to whichever role it is I'm playing. Capable freelance costume lady working long hours? Yes. Stay at home Mum managing laundry, meals and park dates, in addition to being Head of Toddler Entertainment Department and Toddler Destruction Protection Unit? Sure am. Even though sometimes I crave a bit more predictability for you and I, I kind of like the unpredictability of it all too. It keeps it fresh or something. And today? Today I am the latter. After three loads of laundry, we had the most beautiful picnic with a few friends at Marks Park (seriously the BEST views going around), and I'm now about to spend almost your entire naptime rereading an old classic, drinking tea and eating tahini and honey on toast.

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2011-10-10T14:11:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
The birthday festivities have begun with a few early birthday presents coming your way on the weekend. A trip to the toy store with God Nonna Jo under generous instructions to choose anything you wanted. When you grabbed the tiny logging truck I subtly suggested you choose something, er, bigger. You walked away with some awesome wooden blocks as well, but it's the little logging truck with the matchstick sized logs that you love and take to bed to cuddle. (My brother and I did the same thing to Anika when we were taken to the toy store by a family friend and told we could pick anything. Three year old Anika picked something very small. Hayes and I, being older and wiser and far more aware of toy shop economy, quickly pulled her aside and set her straight. Don't you want the barbie convertible? Yup, she'll take the barbie convertible, thanks.) And a 10 minute ride on a wild steed called Petal from "Aunty" Rachelle. You'd been so excited, for days saying bridle on, hold reins. You looked so tiny up on that horse, I couldn't believe you stayed on. What a lucky duck you are.

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2011-10-04T08:09:00.000+11:00

Dear Olive,
When I saw this book in a shop recently, I couldn't resist buying it. So many hilarious cakes! So many memories from my childhood! So much sexism! You had a good look and declared you'd like the cake with the animals. And despite repeated attempts to tell you it's just a cake, you're insistent. Go in it. Want to go in there.
PS long weekend here = bliss.
PPS I'm working the rest of this week. See you on the other side.

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2011-09-30T14:30:00.001+10:00

Dear Olive,
I've been thinking about this letter for a while now. Todays topic is breastfeeding. We're still going with it, you and I - I'm a big believer in the benefits of ongoing breastfeeding. You love it, I love it, we're all happy. Except lately I'm finding it more and more draining. And a whisper of the w word is beginning to creep into my mind .... weaning. Maybe not even weaning completely, but just cutting back? Cutting back a lot? *Obviously* I'd love to say goodbye to the night feeds first and foremost (desperately). I've always demand fed you in the day and fed you back to sleep at night so I don't really know how to go about all of this. And I don't know if I've got the will power within me to truly carry it out. Especially as it feels like a bit of a selfish request on my part. Because it's really all about me being so bloody tired. And because I'd like someone else to be able to put you to sleep. And because I'd like to get drunk again.

You went to town during our photo shoot. (Speaking of which, Shirin's now got the whole shoot up on her blog if you want to take a look.)

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2011-09-28T13:40:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Shane's away in Melbourne for a few days visiting his father, who's elderly and gravely ill in hospital. Shane hasn't seen his Dad in about twenty years and they basically have not had anything to do with each other since Shane was an infant. How does this happen? How does a relationship between a parent and child get to this point where they don't really have a relationship? I never understood this but now that I have you, I don't get it with everything that I am. It's always been the most basic strength for me, knowing my family is in my corner, always supporting me, always loving me. Since you've been born, your Dad has wondered more too. Lately he and his Dad have had a couple of phone conversations. And now Shane's flown down to Melbourne to be by his Dad's bedside. I think it's extremely courageous of him. I've never seen your Dad so vulnerable, but also at the same time so assured.
We made some monsters for him.

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2011-09-27T08:50:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
More beautiful Shirin Town photos. (How's about her rock star name.) It's hard to choose my favourite but I think probably the first one. Shane likes the flowers in our hair. You told me your favourite is Shane and I walking along holding hands. So sweet! (Or perhaps you just have a thing for bottoms?)
PS If anyone is thinking of getting something like this done, I can't recommend Shirin highly enough. Her rates are really reasonable but the best thing is that she's so unreal with kids and getting everyone comfortable. I felt quite nervous about it but the whole morning was actually really fun.

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2011-09-26T08:01:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
This will be my last happy monthly birthday letter because in just one month you'll be two. TWO! And after that, I think we'll finally stop counting in months and you'll simply be two. Until you become two and a half. And then three. And so forth. As two draws closer, I keep thinking about how much you've changed, and how so much of looking after you has gotten easier. The most challenging parts about you now really are my inner battles of controlling my own frustration. Frustration at not getting any personal space, how annoying it is having you try to wipe my bum while I'm on the toilet, eating meals with you jumping all over me. Struggling not to feel infuriated by you whinging under my feet while I'm trying to get ready. How the fact that you never, ever shut up sometimes drives me insane. None of this is a problem for you. Just, at times, for me. I've realised that our most brilliant and enjoyable days together are the ones where I manage to control myself and keep calm. You've certainly shown me a lot about my shortcomings in the areas of patience and not reacting. Anyway, happy 23 months!
PS Remember the photo shoot with this lady that I told you about? Well, the photos are in! And I love them! I'll share more in the next few days. So fun.

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2011-09-21T13:16:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It's been a big week. On top of getting engaged (!), I had a birthday party last weekend. It. Was. So. Much. Fun. And in addition to my first proper hangover in three years, I came home with the most amazing loot. We had ourselves a beautiful picnic in the most glorious weather with a few friends this morning and I'm about to eat a piece of birthday cake for lunch. I have the best friends!
PS Today I turn 35. But it's ok.

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2011-09-19T13:58:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Mummy marry Daddy? you said, as I noticed the ring on a chain around your neck. What are you doing? I asked Shane, suddenly feeling sick. I'm proposing, he said, and stood by, awaiting my answer. Which, of course, was yes. It feels fun, it feels right, it feels full of love. I never imagined I'd be the proud owner of a diamond engagement ring, but there it is. And it's completely won me over with it's sparkling, simple beauty. Shane and I getting married!

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2011-09-16T15:38:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I've been suffering some pretty hardcore jealousy over the amazing family photos coming out recently at a few friends places in blogland. So what do we do about it? We go get our own of course! Remember that one day weekend we had? We managed to squeeze in a special family photo shoot with a very talented lady. (Check out Shirins incredible work on her blog.) Will share more in the next few weeks when we get the photos of the whole shoot. I'm very excited!

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2011-09-12T14:44:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Monday. Already. Our weekend was reduced to only one day thanks to Shane having to work on Saturday. We had some fun but it makes for a long week without Shane around. He's exhausted and missing you like crazy too. There's a lot swirling around in my mind at the moment and I'm not sure how or what to put down in a letter. I'm thinking a lot about breastfeeding. I'm thinking of my dear friends beautiful newborn baby in hospital. I'm thinking about the importance of natural health and nutrition (finding inspiration here and here). I'm thinking about whether we should take the place we've been offered in family day care. I'm thinking how old it looks to write I'm turning 35 soon. I'm thinking about how many times you've driven me crazy this morning.
Flowers from the markets. Super Smoothies* for breakfast. Post Super Smoothie high. Matching back your accessories to your shoes.

* My Dad has a Super Smoothie for breakfast every morning. He drinks about a litre of it and it includes no less than two (two!) raw eggs. I know it's just mind over matter but I'm still building up to the eggs. This morning's smoothie had a mango, kefir yoghurt, rice milk, honey, 1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon coconut oil. It was delicious and you loved it!

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2011-09-08T14:31:00.001+10:00

Dear Olive,
Multiple Choice.
Question One: Which of the following has made this week crap?
a) razor blades in my throat
b) you having a particularly whingy and tantrumy few days
c) being thoroughly underwhelmed by the arrival of a package of clothes ordered online
d) Shane back at work and gone from the house 14 hours a day (we're missing him terribly)
e) hearing the aforementioned blissfully snoring away while I'm up with you multiple times through the night
f) all of the above

Question Two: Which of the following has improved this crap week?
a) my new pair of shoes
b) Shane defacing the pavement (I thought he was kidding when he told me!)
c) you being really funny - last night you picked a piece of fluff off the floor and said "fluff, came out Mummy's bottom"
d) my throat feeling better
e) did I mention my new shoes?
f) all of the above

How did you score? The answer to both questions is f) all of the above.

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2011-09-05T15:00:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It was Fathers Day on the weekend and what better way for you and Shane to celebrate than with a spot of good old road side shopping*. It's one of Shane's favourite past times (he's most excellent at it), how special for him to know you're just a chip off the old block. Your new shape sorter (all original pieces included!) comes with us everywhere now. (How handy are handles?) You're a bargain seeker from way back. You picked up your favourite orange teddy** "Juan", for a song at a garage sale once. Happy Fathers Day to all the Dads, especially mine and yours, because they're both so wonderful.

*also celebrated with a new pair of shorts and lots of cuddles
**ugly and not necessarily endorsed by Shane and I. You saw it at a garage sale and what can we say, you had to have him.

PS I wore mustard pants and a purple top. Fucking colourful bunch aren't we, Shane said as we left the house.

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2011-09-01T19:11:00.001+10:00

Dear Olive,
I haven't had much inspiration for letters this week. Your Dads been at home with a sprained ankle and I released my long dormant inner couch slug during your daytime naps. Mad Men series 4 just proved too appealing. Suffice to say we've had an enjoyable if uneventful week as a threesome.
For Bianca: I see your diagonal print leggings. And I raise you an aztec.

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2011-08-29T14:08:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We could almost smell it in the air the past few weeks, and The Time has now officially arrived. Time to get your pins out and get sand on those little feet of yours.

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2011-08-26T13:43:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Sad, but true. Yesterday was your second last play with Roxy. At least for a while, because next week they're packing up their life in Sydney and moving it on up to Coffs Harbour. Your Papa lives up there so there'll be plenty of visits. But it won't be the same as having them down here. It's really sad. I'm sad for me, but mostly I'm sad for you. You cried when I told you. You adore Roxy with ferocity - she's older, she has a scooter, she can pull crazy faces, she's totally cool. You're going to miss her. We both are.

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2011-08-25T16:20:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
1.2.3.4.5.7.8.7.9.10.11.12.13.Eleventeen. Close enough I say (although where on earth did you get eleventeen from?). You can't quite get up to 22 yet. Which is how old you are as of yesterday. You've left us with no doubt as to what you want for your birthday in two months. Scooter, purple scooter Mummy! This is you having a go of Roxy's scooter at the park this morning. We'll have to break it to you gently that they don't come in purple. Happy 22 months!

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2011-08-24T15:15:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I'm getting into the swing of being back at home with you a bit more now. Having lots of plans is definitely a good idea. It's the company of adults and the conversations that I miss from being at work. And if there are no plans? It's a good idea to head to the horsey park (Centennial Park). It's so peaceful there in the afternoons, and so beautiful. We wore our new jumpers (ok, yours is more of a jacket) and your Top Two Cuddly Friends, Juany and rabbit, came with us. Everywhere we go (or talk about going) you say "Juany rabbit coming too", and despite Shane and my best efforts to get you out the door without them, they usually manage to tag along.

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2011-08-22T13:52:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It was a funny old weekend that was. We had no plans, and now that I'm no longer working full time, I didn't feel the urgency to cram our weekend with endless socialising and fun. But, in the end, it was probably a teeny bit boring. And I'm not sure if it was a rebellion against the slow weekend, or the terrible two's arriving a few months early - or a combination of both - but you've been incredibly full on. Tantrums at everything and nothing. You want it all done to your specific and exhaustive requirements, immediately. Just getting you dressed is turning into a loathsome task, often ending in a wrestle after negotiations fail. It's beyond exhausting. I'm trying to meet your frustration with gentle patience. But it's hard. And I think it's fair to say I've failed miserably on many occasions. I took myself off to an afternoon film yesterday, thinking the break would renew my strength for the upcoming week where Shane's going to be working some long hours and it'll just be me and you and your will home alone. And I think it worked. We had a marvellous morning singing at rhyme time at the library, followed by a delicious treat that's become something of a ritual for us, of a sausage roll* and sauce (the treat, of course, being mostly in the sauce - more sauce Mummy!), from the health food store. More mornings like this, please.

*spinach & cheese roll. But who would know what was in it with that much sauce.

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2011-08-18T14:13:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Two things worthy of a mention today.
1. I finished up my full time job yesterday and am back at home with you. I'm feeling a bit mixed about it, I ended up loving that job. But, of course, I also adore you. And man we've had some sweet cuddles this morning.
2. We're both wearing skirts. This is highly unusual. In fact, I think it might even be a first.

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2011-08-15T14:13:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We're feeling that we've outgrown our little flat and we looked at a few places to rent on the weekend. There was much discussion about what we're prepared to compromise on - location, size, price? Change is afoot and the anticipation of it is always a bit scary. Flowers from the Bondi markets and fancy pants at the park. You love those pants and rightly so me thinks.

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2011-08-12T09:33:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We bid a sad bon voyage over fruit buns and tea (the only way to do it), to our dear dear friends, Jane, Ada and Toby last week. Jane and I have known each other since we were 21, hanging out backstage at the Annandale, trying to appear cool. We've seen each other through many ups and downs, disastrous fashions (mostly me) and different cities (mostly Jane). But the best thing of all, was becoming mothers together (well, relatively together - you and Ada are about 5 months apart). It's cemented our friendship in a way that took me by surprise and it's been marvellous to be able to share the mundane, the beauty and the frustration of motherhood with someone who's not only a great friend, but someone I completely respect, and am inspired by, as a parent. But you can't hold a good woman down - last year the amazing Jane won the prestigious Robert Helpmann scholarship, so they've set off overseas seeking adventure, dancing and lederhosen. You can see some of Jane's work and follow the adventure here. We'll miss them!

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2011-08-10T09:45:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Shane finished up his job last week so he's home with you now. Even though I'm a bit jealous of all the fun you'll be having together, I'm really glad you get to have this time, just the two of you. It's usually reserved for the weekend early morning, when I demand more time in bed and you get taken out for a coffee, if you're lucky a croissant. But now you have until halfway through next week together, after which I finish my job and then we're both unemployed and home with you. Hello, mini break somewhere. It's going to be excellent.
PS You gotta be quick around here ... whipped this new cardi of yours away right under the nose of this international style icon who had it in her sights!

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2011-08-09T13:59:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
You slept through the night last night. For the first time ever. The funny thing is, I'm not as wildly elated as I thought I'd be. Sleeping through felt like The Ultimate (Unachievable) Goal for a while, but you've been on the gradual improve lately and now that you've actually done it, well, it doesn't seem like such a big deal after all. Of course I'm happy about it though, I'll always take any extra sleep with thanks. So, thanks. Happy with my outfit today too.

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2011-08-08T11:07:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
1. Your Dad is a man who gets about in perfectly tonal pants and socks and shoes. I love that.
2. Yum Cha with the entire family on Sunday. We make a rowdy bunch of twelve now (including the two newborns). It honestly brings tears of joy to my eyes to see just how much you adore every single one of them. And they adore you back.
3. A well spent hour.
4. Raining Sunday afternoon, inside and out.

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2011-08-05T10:20:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It's been a long week so I'm thankful for Friday today. I've only got a week and a half left on this job and just as it's nearing the end I'm starting to feel more settled into the full time thing. I can see how I might even find myself at a loose end once it all finishes. I will not be missing those 5.30am calls though.
You came with me on a few work errands yesterday afternoon and we stopped in to visit the ducks at the horsey park. It was positively balmy and you were dressed in what was undoubtedly your most girly outfit yet.
PS Your hair. It's unruly, it's dreadlocked, it's mulleted. What to do about it?
PPS Rather pointless letter. Sorry about that.

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2011-08-03T11:11:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
You woke up yesterday and said "Anika baby". And guess what? It turned out to be the very day little Vesper Violet chose to make her way into the world. I can't WAIT for my cuddle with my new niece this afternoon. There'll definitely be tears. Because it's an emotional thing, meeting a new life. Our family has been so blessed with our amazing, healthy baby girls (four girls in a row now!). I hope you and Vee Vee will be great friends for years to come. By the looks of things, you and Poppy are already well on your way. Your Aunty Sar-Bear sent me these photos from your day with them last week.

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2011-07-29T09:14:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
The one advantage to starting work sickeningly early, is the potential to sneak off at a decent hour. The long shadows of the afternoon sun by the beach yesterday afternoon were a warming reminder that spring really is just around the corner.

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2011-07-28T10:34:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Secretly, I'm relieved to know I'm not the only one who suffers from shameful dark moments in the middle of the night. Which in no way makes them ok! Just, more bearable somehow. I'm not a monster. Or, even if I am, at least I'm not alone. On my way to Aunty Sar-Bears house to pick you up yesterday afternoon I heard this song. I turned it up loud and it lifted up my spirits. There is beauty out there.
PS Been at work since 5.30 this morning. Suffering delirium.

=====

2011-07-27T13:07:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Things feel a bit on top of me today. I got angry at you at 3am last night and it's left me feeling like a mean and shitty Mum. You certainly didn't deserve it but after the past couple of weeks of your Best Ever Sleeping Phase (of only waking up once a night - once!), the past four nights have thrown me off completely. Thrown me back to the tireds. I think today might even be the one year anniversary of this little blog of ours. I had grand plans of unveiling a snazzy new header, maybe staging a giveaway. But, alas, these celebrations I have not organised. Can we just pretend our anniversary is next week? In the meantime, here's our ever expanding spoon collection. It includes one from your Dads old band (rock n roll, right) and one he received as a birthday gift from his great friend who we just lost to Melbourne (come back Trace).

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2011-07-26T10:58:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
In part inspired by this lady, but mostly just to show off your smashing new hot air balloon (Made by Mosey strikes again!), here are some photos of your room - the good corner anyway. It would be unforgivingly misleading of me to photograph your room without a shot of Pepper, she's always nestled in there somewhere. (And is not as mean as she looks. Although quite possibly as aloof.) I probably should confess that it's pretty much all your clever Dads decorating handiwork (the bad lighting all mine!).

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2011-07-25T11:48:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Weekends seem extra precious now, with both Shane and I working full time. I almost ruined this one with a crappy cold, but managed to keep it at bay with literally an endless cup of ginger tea. The tiny moment of blue sky was a gift and we got outside for the first time in over a week. You got to tandem swing with our friend Rachelle. There was also yum cha and a family friendly gig (far less adult contemporary than it sounds). And did I mention there was blue sky??

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2011-07-22T15:32:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Two new giraffes. One for me. One for you.

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2011-07-21T09:54:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
A song in bed, 6.15 this morning.
  Happy Birthday to you
  Happy Birthday to you
  Happy Birthday dear Daddy
  Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday Shane. We both adore you xx

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2011-07-15T14:28:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,

Pumpkin soup for lunch today, and almost everyday this week. Served with loads of avocado on toast. Just the way I like it.

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2011-07-13T15:02:00.001+10:00

Dear Olive,
It's fr-fr-fr-freezing here today and I can't get warm in our chilly little flat. I'm having to administer hot chocolate and tea purely as an anti-hypothermia remedy. I think I grossly underestimated the delightfulness of a week spent indoors with you. It would have been relaxing if it were just me! But I forgot about the wildly unstoppable you. Was reminded of it the hard way with this mornings painting session. Conducted indoors. I can now, with confidence, assure you that indoor painting is not recommended for the under 18's. Luckily most of it came off, and I'm sorry for getting cross after you walked on the paint and stomped it everywhere. The paint on the fridge and the walls, however, is a different matter entirely. You know it only goes on the paper! Anyway, I know now. Painting is exclusively an outdoor activity. Listening to the new Belles Will Ring album, very befitting for this wintery, bordering-on-melancholic day.

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2011-07-12T14:19:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Exciting news. The entire production has gone away for a week, which means basically I get this week at home with you. HOORAY. I felt slightly guilty saying I couldn't go, but I wouldn't go without you and it all seemed a bit too tricky to take you along too. We've got a few fun things planned, but mostly I'm looking forward to having a snuggly week indoors. I'm in my slippers, about to get a pot of soup going. Flowers from the weekend markets make it even more enticing to hang inside - a bunch of really wintery red ones and a bunch of really smelly (in a good way) jonqils. And I know it doesn't make a huge amount of sense to include it here, but I just can't, won't ever, get enough of my new scarf.

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2011-07-07T14:33:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I was lucky enough to have Monday off and as I was feeding you before your morning nap, I picked up one of your teddies and told him about the fun morning we'd had. How we'd caught the bus, where we went, who we met, what we had for lunch. As I walked out of the room I heard you saying this to your cat teddy ... "Hi Cat. Bus. Two bus! Library. Amelia, Clover. Books! Cafe. Sosso roll!" The entire morning, word for word, in nouns. You're going to kill me with your cuteness one of these days, I tell you.
I took this photo at 6.30 this morning. Don't let that innocent fact fool you. It was taken just before you tore my office to shreds.

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2011-07-04T13:42:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It's been one of the best weekends in ages. Catching up with friends and family. Picnic in the park. Romantic dinner for three in a restaurant. With the most extraordinary winter weather you could imagine a delightful backdrop to it all. You've got a seemingly endless inquisitive thirst for new knowledge at the moment. "This mummy?", followed by a nod and an authoritative "yes" after I explain the purpose of the car bumper bar/coffee plunger on the side of the road/overflowing tap/how to order butter for your bread in a restaurant ("waiter! waiter! butter!"). It's so much fun. And that's not the only thing growing up around here. I think, yes, I'm quite sure, is that, the beginnings of, a .... fringe?!?

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2011-07-01T09:47:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Holy toledo Batman. Where's my baby gone? You've practically changed into a kid overnight. The way you play, the way the talk, the way you are. It's bloody cute.

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2011-06-28T08:52:00.002+10:00

Dear Olive,
This is not so much a letter to you .... but a thank you to all the wonderful people who wrote the most lovely and supportive words on my last post. You gave me smiles and tears and warmth (Kristen you gave me a belly laugh). It really means an enormous amount and it's made me love this little world of blog even more. Full of people who clearly understand that some choices made as a parent are super complex. And don't necessarily define you. I work because it makes me happy. Simple as that, I don't feel the need to justify it. I feel secure that I'm a good Mum to Olive. But gee it's wonderful to hear it. Thank you. I wish I could pick a happy little posy for each and everyone of you.

You all KNOW I didn't take this photo. Image from here.

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2011-06-27T10:14:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I'm not sure I should even be paying service to this, but I received a comment yesterday telling me I should quit my job and look after my baby. I have to say, it really, really, really upset me. It hit a nerve because I've been struggling internally to reconcile who I am as a mother, in theory and in reality. So to the person who posted the comment, I just want to say that your words achieved their clear intention of making me feel like shit. I gather you are the perfect mother? I really think you should have the courage of your convictions and put your name to your wimpy little anonymous comment.

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2011-06-26T15:44:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Smile. Cranky. Surprise. Happy twenty months funny face.

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2011-06-24T15:41:00.000+10:00

It's been a very full on week. There's been moments where I've loved it, but there's also been moments where I've found myself wondering what I'm doing, especially why I'm doing this to you. Although you've apparently had terrifically fun days with your new friends the two nanny's, your sleeping's been dreadful and I can't help but feel it's your way of expressing your separation anxiety. I'm sorry for whatever I'm putting you through, I think you're being amazing. I'm looking forward to a fun weekend together full of lots and lots of cuddles. Six weeks to go and counting.
(One of our lovely nanny's just sent me this photo.)

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2011-06-17T13:52:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
The Countdown Is On. In fact, The Countdown Is Almost Over. Seven weeks of full time work starts from next week .... I must be crazy! I've kind of been looking forward to it, although today I'm feeling a little bit anxious. I've really loved going back to work and even though I don't really want to work full time yet, I am looking forward to the challenge of this job. My first time as the boss! We've managed to find two lovely, fun, intelligent women who are going to look after you and I feel so lucky that so far, you seem completely happy to be left with them. Thank you for making it so easy for me sweet girl. I'm going to miss you xx.

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2011-06-15T20:49:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I've been telling you lately about your middle name and where it came from and tonight I asked you if you'd like to see some photos of Rose. It's still sad for me to look at photos of my Mum, even though it's been eight years. The two of us snuggled up in our pyjamas on the bed together and went through my photo box. You were fascinated and after every photo asked for more. I miss your grandma Rose I told you. Miss Rose Mummy, you said back to me. I know you don't really understand, but at the same time it seemed like you did. Just for a moment.
PS The rain eased this afternoon and with it, our cabin fever, so relieved we were finally able to get out for a walk.
PPS Remember Madeleine our friend who gave us the vintage coats? She's also to thank for this beanie. What a score!

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2011-06-14T12:36:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We are winners! Winners of this cutest crocheted cushion from this gorgeous lady. Thanks Emily for such an unreal giveaway, I can't wait til the little beauty arrives. It lifted my spirits after a rather trying weekend that saw our upstairs neighbour flood his bathroom. Which, in turn, blew out all our power. No lights. No hot water. No heating. We got heating and hot water back, still waiting on lights and the plumbers are here ripping out our bathroom ceiling and replacing all the pipes, which have apparently rusted through in our lovely old building. It seems there are some advantages to renting after all. Not having to foot this bill is certainly one of them.

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2011-06-11T14:25:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Quite a few lovely things have recently found their way into our home.
1. Dinner plate. Couldn't afford the whole set so just bought one. Perfect for all those times I'm dining solo.
2. Cushion.
3. A couple of these map letters. No idea what to do with them or where to put them yet.
4. Globe lamp Shane found at Vinnies.
5. Tony Mott photo of your Dads old band. (He's the handsome one second from the right.)
Not only that, but it's a long weekend. What lucky ducks we are.

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2011-06-10T13:39:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Rabbit? Present. Juan teddy? Yes. Toy car? Here. Two cloth serviettes and a dirty tea towel? Got em. OK, then. Looks like we're all set for a casual stroll to the post office. It's a bit slow going, want me to help you by carrying some of them? No!

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2011-06-07T12:29:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
The contents of my jacket pocket, emptied at the park by some little hands. Pens, a peg, a business card, a half eaten cracker, a car, a couple of safety pins and my phone. Not quite as embarrassing as the time I pulled out my keys at the pub in front of a group of people, only to watch in horror as a long tangle of variously flavoured tea bags came out attached with it. But far more revealing of my chaotic life right now, split between work and being at home you. The juggle is intense. I'm kind of loving it.

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2011-06-06T07:54:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
A new niece is born unto our family! How exciting. Little Poppy is gorgeous and tiny and wrinkly and perfect and soft and floppy and sleepy. Everything you'd expect her to be. Of course, the baby basket took your fancy far more than the actual baby. Big big congratulations to smitten parents Hayes and Sarah. We love her already.

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2011-06-02T14:34:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Your language has just gone gangbusters. Three and four word sentences are coming out now. "No raining Mummy" you said to me this morning after I asked you if it was raining today. It's so so fun to see it all happening. (On an aside: YAY for sunshine.)
The mobile playbus was lots of fun this morning.

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2011-06-01T12:58:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
The first day of winter. Dreary and windy and cold outside, I'm keeping cosy with a bowl of pumpkin soup. Perfect weather for showing off our new collection of vintage jackets our lovely friend Madeleine gave us on the weekend. Sized 3, I can't wait to get you in them.
(Thanks Mads!! xx)

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2011-05-31T08:42:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It was cold and it was grey and it was rainy. But it was super social. You accompanied me to brunch, twice. A trip to the markets and an afternoon at the pub. Dinner at a friends. Drinks at a bar. Back to work today. *yawn*

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2011-05-26T08:08:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I overheard the cutest conversations between you and Roxy yesterday. One particularly funny exchange saw you earnestly following an instructive demonstration on how to pick dried snot from your nose. It would appear you found her tips most helpful. I should probably ask Roxy for an instructive tutorial on photography, after finding these photos on my camera. Love her three year old perspective.

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2011-05-25T13:21:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Two cousins, two sets of pyjamas, two pairs of small busy hands. One rainy day inside one teeny tiny flat creating one insurmountable mess. Thank goodness for cardboard boxes and chairs that go weeeeee.

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2011-05-24T13:54:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
I'm tired. T.I.R.E.D. More than that, though, I'm pissed off. P.I.S.S.... well, you get the idea. I'm angry and resentful and annoyed that I'm tired all the time. Mostly, I'm just really, really, REALLY sick of getting up during the night. Last night I yelled at Shane for snoring so he slept on the lounge. (Sorry Shane.) I'm sure he's sick of me being so tired too. I'm starting to feel like I'm only living life at half capacity. I'm taking on a seven week full-time work stint in a couple of weeks and as it draws closer I'm feeling more and more anxious about how I'm going to cope.
On a lighter note, finding evidence of your handiwork around the house is pretty cute. Love this attempt at the fire truck puzzle.

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2011-05-23T13:32:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
You threw your arms up and yelled I love you as I walked in the door Saturday afternoon. Ok, so it sounded far closer to an indecipherable version of wa wu but I knew exactly what you meant. So sweet it gave me a little tear.
Sundays game of hide and seek in the gum trees with Louis was a lot of fun.

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2011-05-20T13:38:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We so desperately require one of these terrariums it's ridiculous. Pick up only. From L.A. Bummer.
(Available here, spotted here.)

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2011-05-15T19:55:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Ways To Spend A Crisp Sunday Morning #1:
1. BYO endless blue sky.
2. Bike around Centennial Park.
3. Visit and feed water fowl.
4. Picnic in the sun.
Good times guaranteed or your money back!

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2011-05-10T12:54:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Neither Shane or I feel the need to make a massive deal out of mothers day*. I think until the day you can get excited about it, we won't make too much fuss. Instead, I thought about my Mum. Every time I talk to you about her it's filled with sadness about how much I miss her, so here are some happy memories and funny facts about my Mum.
Mum used to bring her guitar in once a week and sing with my primary school class (mostly funny old folk/peace songs). Which was great fun, at the alternative school we went to in Sydney. But when we moved to the country and started attending the conservative, local primary school, it seemed the height of embarrassment to have Mum come in to sing, with her floor length skirts and hippy tunes. No one elses parents came in to our class. And when Mum used to get the guitar out of the case, she wouldn't bend her knees. The whole class could see her bum. The shame of it!
The day I nervously started high school, in my first class, the teacher stopped at my name in roll call. Ah, Kellie, I think I met your Mum at the P&C meeting last night. It was the same at all my classes. Mum had apparently been quite a force at the first meeting. And when word got around the playground that my Mum was trying to ban junk food in the canteen, I wasn't exactly the most popular kid at school for a few days!
But people loved her, many of my high school teachers came to her funeral (it was years since any of us had attended) and told us how determined and fiery she could be, with a warm smile on their face.
One day Mum and I picked up all the rubbish that littered our country road from the nearby McDonalds and drove around their car park and drive through, throwing it out the window piece by piece.
Mum could sometimes get a bit lively on a little too much wine. In fact, she was even apparently obscenely drunk when she married Dad. She didn't even remember the ceremony. (Sorry, Mum, I know you'd be so embarrassed to know I let that one slip!)
The most important thing about her, was the unconditional love and support and friendship she gave me. It endures in me to this day. She was such a fun, funny, intelligent, loving, strong Mum. I hope I can be the same for you.
*Having said that, I did receive a sleep-in, cool trackies, yummy breakfast, flowers and the most beautiful Banksy card. A blank Banksy card. Which was left, with a pen. Shane suggestion was how about I fill it out myself and he could sign at the bottom?!

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2011-05-07T19:35:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
Stealthily, while Shane and I were lounging in bed, you made off with the brown paper bag, and helped yourself. I fear we may have a croissant monster on our hands.
(Pyjama suit styled by Shane. Hair styled by bed.)

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2011-05-06T14:40:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
It's been truly excellent to be back at home with you and we've had a fun week - busy, yet peaceful (although today I fear we may both be in danger of succumbing to colds). I'm fascinated by this whole learning how to talk that you're going through, it's so fun to see your language unfolding (your personality too) and I'm constantly marvelling at your learning processes. One of the cutest things is that although you answer to and know your name is Olive, because I call you you, you refer to yourself as you. (You confused?) A conversation will go along thus;
Me: Bite for Mum?
You: No! You! (Followed by you devouring what it was I wanted a bite of.)

PS Note to self: however cute, your new red beanie should not be paired with green cardi. Excepting, of course, when resemblance to Christmas elf is desired.

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2011-05-03T12:30:00.000+10:00

Dear Olive,
We made it through another working stint for me. It's getting easier, I think. Or probably it was that this time your Dad was at home, taking care of everything. He's a super house-husband, I highly recommend all working Mums get one just like him. Things are back to normal tomorrow, Shane said to a very exhausted me last night. Meaning, I suppose, that he's back at work and I'm home with you. I don't really feel like I know what normal is, though. But I guess this is becoming our normal. A few crazy, enjoyable, exhausting working days interspaced with a stretch of lovely, slower-paced days at home with you that are somehow even more tiring. I wish there could be a bit more balance but that's just the curse of a freelancer.
It's cold here today and we returned from the park to find the place engulfed by the deliciously intoxicating smell of a curry in the slow cooker. Pretty nice.
Cute times in the park after breakfast on the weekend with one of your favourites, Louis. You worked out how to say his name and haven't stopped since.
PS No, I don't usually take you to the park without pants. You sat in some water so I removed them.