Pic's from Elise & Rhys's Trip

THE HULTGRENS IN SAN FRANCISCO

THE WINDIEST STREET (NAME - NO IDEA) PIER 39 CONNER'S 10TH BIRTHDAY DINNER MARINE WORLD Conner - pirate ship

Bruce & Jamieson - Dodgems The Hultgrens - Marine World Friday June 16th 9.00 am On the way to Marine World Old Sacramento Buying Salt Water Taffy Outside Little White House

First night in Sac - out to in & out

Coming home from the Airport- 1st day

FOR MORE PHOTO'S & VIDEO'S THERE WILL BE DISC'S BEING SENT HOME TO THE HULTGRENS & KOROSTINS.

From June 24th

Saturday Well we all woke up to what was going to be another very warm day. Also the start of a very busy weekend. We had some breakfast & were headed off to the stadium for Conner's first basketball practice at 11am. His team is the Spurs, they have 10 in the team & it seems to be a good mix of shapes, sizes & talent. Good drafting coach! **Note, that's what everyone calls Bruce, he thinks it's pretty funny. Anway, all the parents that I met seemed really nice, there were a couple that I didn't meet but that will change I'm sure. As per Billy Bounce - Bruce got some of the parents involved with training which I think they enjoyed, & I know that the kids really enjoyed. Good Move Coach!!! Conner had a really good time & even at the end complemented Bruce on how much fun the training session was. It doesn't sound like a lot but, last year all Bruce got from Conner at training was attitude, so this was a great change. It was also helped by the fact that the team on the other end of the court, all they did for the whole hour was scrimmage. Conner thought that looked really boring, so did all of us. Out parents were very appreciative of the personal development that the kids recieved, throughout the session. So it was a good training all around, I think this team is going to do really well. We were done by 12 noon & had to do the chat thing with the parents then get home Conner had to change & get to Adam's birthday party by 1.00. Jamieson & I stayed home & I tidyed up while Jamieson assumed the position (TV) in our room. Jamieson was very excited about his first EVER Basketball practise (for 3 days before!!, especially ALL that morning) We had some lunch, I got the info packs together for the parents & we were out of the house & at the stadium again at 3.00. Again, the kids seemed like a good little bunch, & the parents were nice too. Didn't meet as many but that will come I'm sure. Jameison's friend John is in the same team, so Alfie (his Dad) helped Bruce out with the training session, which I think he enjoyed, & learnt some stuff too. Again, Bruce got the parents involved with the training which as you could imagine bought smiles to all the kids faces. Another good blend of kids, so it shouldn't be too hard to get the mix right. (They have to put everyone on for the same amount of time, so everyone gets a fair go. Apprarently they had problems with that last year) Anyway, Jamieson did really well, & had a great time. **** How's this for weird. Bruce set up the kids in two teams for Tunnel Ball - which is fun, but no one had any idea what it was. There is no tunnel ball in the US. They figured it out and had a great time with their new game. Bruce came up to me while they were having thier race & goes, "You know this is going into Billy Ball"!! With a very large grin.. So we finished up at basketball & Kristin & Alfie invited us to go out for pizza, which is always fun. They are really cool!!! We quickly went & got Conner from Adam's party & drove down to the pizza place. The place was call something pizza & they had big TV's (the baseball was on) & some video games for the kids to play. Paula & her kids came too, so we all sat around the table chatting while the kids were off playing on the games. It was a really nice way to end a Saturday. We finished up around 7.30 & headed off to find a DVD player. Bruce had decided that it was time. Especially seeing as how we have these Supercats games (thanks Trev) & he didn't want to have to keep plugging in his laptop etc. So off we went, had to go to a couple of places, but we finally found the brand that is multi zone. They don't have that here, & apparently if they are multizone they don't advertise it. No idea why!! Anyway, we had to get a DVD recorder as the just plain player isn't being made anymore, so it turned out to be a little more expensive than we thought. We got home around 8.30 & the kids went off to bed without too much of a fuss. They had had a big day & Conner's weekend was just getting started. I was on the computer & Bruce conected up the DVD player. The instructions that we got on how to set the multi function weren't working, so just before we were about to ring someone, Bruce goes let's just try it. So we did, a US Movie, AUST Movie & Supercats games. WOOO HOO!!! So we now have a dvd player, cross that off the list. I spoke to Elise & Rhys on messenger then Raels on skype. Bruce & I headed off to bed around 11.00. So that was our Saturday, it was a fun day, HOT!! But a really fun day. Sunday We woke up to what was expected to be another hot day (105F). Bruce left early to go into work to help Jeff with some stuff & I dropped Conner off at Elliott's House (Birthday party at Marine World) at 8.45am. Jameison & I went home, I tidyed up & at around 10.30 we headed for the pool. I wanted to get down there for a swim before it got too hot. Jamieson wants to swim all the time, so he's not driving me crazy cause he's bored. I called Paula, she just moved in & has her boys this week, to let her know that we were there. We got there & Jacob, Scott & his dad Phil came down. These boys are around our boys ages & Bruce sees Phil at the gym. Jamieson had some friends to play with YEAH! Paula & Justin & Jeremy got down around 11.00 & we just sat & swum untill 12.30 when Jamieson & I went home for some lunch. Bruce wanted me to pick him up around 1.00, he dropped off the old van & needed a ride home. Jamieson stayed with Paula & the boys & I took off for Carmichael. I picked Bruce up around 1.30 & we headed off home. As it was just us we decided to make a couple of stops to have a look around, together, without the kids. Foreign concept, but it was fun. We went to Sketchers for a look at their clearance racks, poor Bruce - nothing that he really wanted for a bargain, but I scored a pair of winter boots, just casual for $12. I was, don't really need them, Bruce says, you wear them twice you've paid for them. Lets put them away for your birthday, which we had done for a windcheater that we got for him last week. On the way out there were some really nice slides for $15.00, so as what happens when Bruce & I are shopping together (which we should not do) I got those too. They are so cute & I will wear them all the time. Pics to follow. We got home around 4.00 & went over to Paula's to pick up Jamieson. Jamieson & I left her place around 5.30, we had a good chat. Conner got home around 7.00 a bit sunburnt, but had a fabulous day. Everyone was really tired, so the boys were in bed by 7.30 & Bruce & I headed off around 10.30 I think. What a weekend, a little busier than usual, but I think we had better get used to the coming & going, especially with basketball starting x 2 games each week. It was a good fun couple of days, the weather is getting really warm & I don't think it's going to change too much over the next couple of months. The boys have 1 more week of school left before they are off until July 24th. So there will be a trip somewhere in there I hope. We were supposed to be going to Vegas this weekend, I think I said but because of basketball that wasn't possible. I know Rich was dissappointed, as were we, but we will catch up soon. We are planning a trip to Seattle, it's just a matter of when. Monday Another week started with the usual. The boys went off to school. Jamieson was very excited as he was going on a field trip. Off he went, Conner (tired) went to school, I went home & vacuumed up until it was time to meet Kristin for our walk. We met at the end of her street which is just up the street from school, & she took me on a new route. Looking at different scenery is a good change. We walked for around 45 minutes then came back to Lake Point & did a work out in the gym. It was really good, I haven't done anything last week cause I wasn't feeling 100% so getting back into the exercise felt great. I got back around 10.30, had a cuppa then went to the business centre before I picked Jamieson up from school. It was a really HOT day, & the bus didn't get back until around 11.45, they had a great time. We got back home & had some lunch together. Bruce was out for the day so it was just the 2 of us. Jamieson assumed the position (TV) & I did some washing & decided to color my hair. I was having some issues about getting it right (yellow) so I decided to do it myself. I have to say, it doesn't look too bad. The only bad thing is that Bruce said " Why have you been paying all that money to get it done, it looks great." Thanks goodness it's done, I'll decide about getting someone else to do it in 8 weeks when it's time to be done again. (for those who don't know how picky I am about my hair color, I used to drive from Melbourne to Ocean Grove to get it done so I knew it would be done right!!!) That was about it for the day, we went down to the pool later in the day after it cooled down a bit. Kaylee was down there so we chatted for a while, found out that Jamieson & her have the same birthday. Birthday buddies!! I did some more washing (it drys really quickly in the heat) had some dinner & the kids were in bed around 7.30. they were tired after their big weekend, so there wasn't really much fight put up. Bruce went out for a meeting with Jeff & I sat around played on the computer & watched some TV as no one was online. Bruce got home around 10.30 & headed off to bed. He put his back out again (old bugger!), so he's been having a bit of trouble. He will get it fixed when he sees Dr Todd tomorrow. Tuesday It started out like any other day, the sun was out & Bruce had already left for work. I dropped the boys off at school & I came home and did some cleaning. Lots of fun, NOT!! I actually cleaned the oven & stove, sounds like exciting stuff huh? I did some washing & then headed off to school to pick up Jamieson. We walked home & went to the business centre to catch up on emails & the blog. I ended up being a little longer than expected, Jamieson was OK he was watching SpongeBob on the TV in the function room, eating a cookie from the office. We walked home & had some lunch, Bruce got home from his meetings & I took off to the supermarket. The afternoon went along as usual, Jamieson & I headed down to the pool around 3.00 for a couple of hours. Jackary & his family came down, I took little brother Mikea into the pool for a float around. It was good to see them out, they had some family with them, which I think will probably happen for a little while. Millie & Lexie were there & I met some of their family who came over for a swim. We got back around 5.00 & started on dinner. The usual routine, showers, dinner, reading & bed for the kids. Bruce did some work on the laptop (new website for uniforms) & I just sat around watching TV. So another Tuesday gone, nothing much to report. Wednesday Another Wednesday has arrived, Bruce didn't have to go to the office this morning so he walked the boys to school. I tidyed the apartment & Bruce & I left around to go to the Honor Roll ceremony by 8.30am. We arrived & the Multi Purpose room was full & they were ready to start. Conner got up with the rest of the honor roll kids in his class, (we took a picture) then we stood there for another hour. After the ceremony - which went for over 1 1/2 hours we decided to leave. My back was killing me & Bruce's was worse. Those kids did a great job of sitting there for all that time. We ran into Kristin & Cooper outside & we decided as she had already been walking while waiting for us, so we headed for the gym to do a workout. I got home around 10.30 & had a cuppa. Tidyed up the apartment & went to school to pick him up. We got home & went to the business centre & wrote some emails. Jamieson had enough after a while & headed back home. I lost track of time & got back around 1.00. OOPPSS!!! We had a quiet afternoon, I did some baking & we just hung around the apartment. Jamieson & I went down the pool for not long, came home & I started dinner. The boys went outside to play with Jackary & Bruce finished the website. It looks really great, he's done a really good job. He's just got to print it out so I can proof it, then Jeff will have a look, they will make any changes & hopefully it will be up in the next couple of days. I made Liz's Vegetarian Lasagne (it turned out pretty yummy) the boys went to bed & I spoke to Elise, Rhys & Rael's online. And that was our day. Thursday 2 more days of school left, so the boys are pretty excited. Not too bad, lucky they spend so much time outside getting rid of all that energy. I dropped the boys at school, they now want to be dropped off at the corner, they are growing up. I went back home & did the usual, washing & tidying. Before I knew it, it was time to go & get Jamieson. I chatted with his teacher & said my thank you's. She is taking tomorrow off to go to her son's graduation. We went home & had some lunch & got ready to go around to Jack's for an end of kindergarten swim with some of the other kids. We arrived around 1.00 & there was just a few of us there, so we all just sat around talking while the kids swam in the pool. I may have scored PE Gear an account with the school, they maybe looking at getting a new supplier for their uniforms, Kerri - Grant's mum, is chairman of the PTO, so I said I would get her a sample, aren't I a good wife to be drumming up business? (That's what I tell myself anyway :-)) We had to leave early to get Conner from school, much to Jamieson's disgust. We got home & chilled out for a while, Bruce got home from his meeting with Jeff & did some work & I made some biscuits. Bruce finished his work & later we went for a swim down at the pool. We had another swim with Mikea (Jackary's brother) as they were down having a swim as well. They are doing OK, with help from their family. Anyway Paula & the boys arrived & 2 brothers Tony & Tlyer came down & all the boys threw the ball around for a while. We headed home for 2 mintue noodles (oodles of noodles), toasted sandwiches, or cereal for dinner. The boys went off to bed & I finally got to chat with mum & dad, I haven't spoken to them in a couple of weeks, so that was really good to get all the goings on from home. As I thought, she doesn't like their haircuts (too Short). Anyway, tried to get back onto the chat to Elise but she had gone somewhere so hopefully we'll get it tonight. It was an early night for us we were in bed asleep by 10.30, new record I think. Bruce got all his work done & we were both exhausted, but we had a fun day. Friday We woke up to the sun out but a cool breeze, so I opened up the whole apartment to let the fresh air in before it warms up too much. The boys went off to school for thier last day, Conner had an excursion to a skate centre & Jamieson was doing some beach theme thing. I came home & kicked Bruce into the bedroom so he could work at his desk. Then I started cleaning....on my hands & knees cleaning, moving furniture cleaning. They are about to be home for the next 4 weeks so the place is going to be shambles while that's happening. So I wanted it CLEANED properly before that. I did washing & even got the shower curtains off the shower to clean them properly. Bruce left around 9.30 for Jeff's. He was going to a golf day fundraiser for Cameron's golf career. They were teeing off around 1.00 but there was setting up to do before then. I picked up Jamieson from school & chatted to Kristin. We are going around there for 4th July. Which we are really looking forward too, it's always a great time when we spend time with them. I have to bring Potatoe salad (Mum - your reciepe is a hit here) and as Kristin says, Alfie's a piro so there will be lots of fireworks. I said that given the opportunity Bruce would be a piro too, Bruce agreed whole heartedly when I told him what I'd said. So that should be a really fun to start off the summer holidays. Kristin's dog had to go to the emergency vet yesterday, ($940 later) she picked him up this morning. Also yesterday Alfie (who is away in Seattle) went to emergency, he's fine now. Well, this morning she ran into the trash cans with the car & dinted it. (Everything happens in 3's) We had a bit of a giggle & made our way home. Not for long, we had to be back at school to get Conner at 12.30. We walked back over, Conner wanted to go so I gave them the keys & waited for Mrs Howe to finish saying good bye to everyone. I said my thank you's, I found out some stuff about his new teachers & we discussed whether he needed to do Summer school or not. It is every morning for 3 weeks, so he really wouldn't get a break. Which is my concern, he has been working so hard since we've been here to make sure he's not behind (Maths) that I think & she agreed, that if he did some work everyday at home then Summer school wasn't necessary. We are going to discuss over the weekend with Conner & make a decision. We got their reports, they were great. They both have a couple of things to work on, so we will be doing some work over the break. Conner' s report was fabulous, but we knew that because he got Honor Roll. He also got another Certificate for Responsibility. He is very proud of himself and we are too. Jamieson's was great too. He just needs to work on staying on task, working independently (dejavue!!) he also needs to work on letter & number formation. His teacher told me that he can talk a little too much. Which means he talks alot & she doeesn't want to say it. Saw Millie at the pool on my way through, I got home and told the boys we were going to the pool. They had assumed the position infront of Sponge Bob, so I decided to do a little test. I told Jamieson to get ready cause we were going to the pool once we'd had some lunch. They made themselves some lunch & I got ready to go. Still assuming the position, I got the bag out & all the toys, still assumed the position. I put the house keys on the bench for Conner & said, "I'm going to the pool, lock the door", Conner says 'OK' - Jamieson.... nothing. Off I went to the pool, Millie & the kids left not long after so I sat for a while then decided to go home. I got in the door & Jamieson goes "Mum, can we go to the pool now?" You've got to be kidding me, so Jamieson didn't get to go to the pool today. Hopefully a lesson has been learnt, but I doubt it, time will tell. We had a quiet afternoon, I still had some cleaning to do, so the boys were in and out all afternoon into the evening. Jamieson came in from the park around 7.00. So it gave me time to clean the shower curtains etc. I got onto the laptop & sent some emails. Mum sent a message, Simone & Nigel Bellars (Fitzgerald) had their baby (little girl) CONGRATULATIONS GUYS!!! Bruce was still at the golf day, he called periodically to let us now where he was. The boys were showered & fed by 8.00. Then I put a Supercats game on for us to watch. (Thank you Trev) We made the smoke alarm go off again, Jamieson knows the drill, opened the front door, I put the toaster outside etc. So that is a hurdle over, the 1st time that happened Jamieson cried until the alarm stopped. Bruce got home around 9.30. They had a good fundraising day for Cameron, so that was great. Keep an eye out for him. He's off the the world junior golf championship in July, so we hope he kicks butt. (Remember this name folks - Cameron Champ - he is in the top 3 junior players in the United States - and, as people are saying in the right circles - if he continues his development as he is - he will be as good as Tiger Woods. I watched him hit some balls yesterday - this kid has just turned 11 ans SMACKS it! Long and straight. Then - later in the day - played a shot for one of the teams - and chipped in it from 40 feet. A great kid as well.) We finished watching the game & the boys went to bed, with Bruce & I not far behind. So that is the end of another week. The next few will be interesting, Bruce is away in Texas for 3 days in the middle of the month. We have no big plans but hopefully we will get away for the weekend while the boys are on holidays. I think we are heading to Lake Tahoe at some stage, stay tuned. Enjoy your weekend!! Go Supercats, Cats, West, Joey's, Newtown, Grovey & Amateurs!!!!

From June 16th

Friday 16th June Happy 10th Birthday Conner We woke up around 7.00am. Conner was up already having a chat with Ross on the sofabed. Not sure how long he'd been up, poor Ross. I'm sure was really tired after his week in San Diego. We did pressies & started to get ready for our big day. Everyone had some breakfast & got ready to go. Our aim was around 9.00 & we were off by 9.20, so that wasn't bad considering there was 7 of us. We made our way towards Marine World, San Fransisco. the drive was ok & everyone was pretty upbeat. It was already warm, the expected temp was going to be over 100F. We arrived around an hour later. It looked pretty impressive coming over the horizon I have to say. We parked the car. Conner got out & decided that he wasn't feeling well. We hung around the car so he could have something to eat, thinking it was probably car sickness. Finally we decided to go and see how he went so we and all the other people hearded (like sheep) along the pathway towards the front gates. We decided to get season's passes, so we can go back as much as we like over the rest of the year. Which should be fun, it works out that you really only have to go there twice & the tickets have paid for themselves. We finally made our way in & we were off, kind of. Conner was still blah, so slowly we were off. Elise & Ross headed for one of the BIG roller coasters, while we got pic's taken for our passes. Then we decided to separate for a while so they could get in all the rides they wanted while we plodded along on the smaller kids rides & with sicky Conner. (poor thing) We met up again at the Dolphin Show (fantastic) all the kids had rides on the Pirate ship (which was fun & got cool pics) then we went our separate ways again to meet up at the Whale show. We got some lunch, & off we went to see the whale show. (Again fantastic) the dolphin was my favorite but Elise liked the whale show better. Off we went again every 1/2 hour or so we would see the others & do a coulple of things together then separate again. Jamieson threw the tantrum of all tantrums outside the shark exhibit. He decided that it was dark so he didn't want to go in, then Elise, Rhys & Ross went in so a few minutes later he wanted to go in. I said he would have to wait for dad to get out, but he wouldn't take that & started screaming & pushing me until he pushed me over, of course I said he wasn't going in. Well, you can imagine. Bruce came out horrified!!! The tantrum just kept going. Ross & the kids face was priceless, (never seeing this side of young Jamieson) they went off with Jamieson still screaming at the top of his lungs "I WANT TO GO AND SEE THE SHARKS". Screaming kids are always a joy. Finally Conner was feeling a little better & saw a play house thing that he wanted to go in, so of course Jamieson did too. Which shut him up thank goodness. We finally had peace. It was getting on towards 4.00 (leaving time, school thing started at 5.30) Elise wanted to go on one last roller coaster, so Rhys came with us to do the Pirate ship one more time, Jamieson went on the boats & CJ & Rhys went on the Pirate Ship. We all met at the gate around 4.00 & started the long walk back to the car. Bruce carrying Conner & Ross carrying Jamieson. We got into the van & cracked open all the food & drink we had left (were coming back to have for lunch, but didn't get there). Friday traffic, it took us an extra 30 mins to get home. We got back around 6.00ish & the weather was still really really hot. Conner said that he wasn't feeling well still, so he & I stayed at home. The others put on their lay's & off they went across the road to school. By all accounts it was fun but just too hot!!! And tinny Jamieson came home after winning his classes boys dress up basket in the raffle. He was so excited....."this is the best day of my life"!!!!! After they got home, Conner said that he feeling better, & Ross said that he wanted to take us out for dinner. Conner wanted to go to Chuck E Cheese...... so we all piled into the van around 9.00 and drove across town to Chuck E Cheese. We ordered the pizza & the kids got their tokens & off they went. We left around 10.45 to come home after the kids got their crappy prizes from their tickets. Conner & all the kids were happy with their efforts on the machines. We got home around 11.30 & had a little cake & "Happy Birthday" for Conner before heading off to bed. So it was a packed day & apart from feeling crappy I think Conner had an interesting/good birthday that's for sure. Saturday We all slept in until around 8.00 (that's a sleep in for us here) Bruce went off to his coaching course so he is allowed to coach the boys basketball teams. (8.00-11.00) We all pottered around & decided what we were doing for the day. I decided that we would BBQ for dinner (at the function room tonight) we were going to order pizza, but we did that at Chuck E Cheese. So Alfie kindly offered to pick Jamieson up & take him to his try outs, I helped Ross & the kids re pack their suitcases, then Ross & the kids went to the pool & I went off to the super market to get food for tonight. I got back & waited for Jamieson to get home & Bruce to get back to have lunch & take Conner for his try out. Bruce got home and apparently they have a draft to pick teams. We all had a laugh, drafting 6 year olds. Bruce said the funny part was some of the coaches took a few minutes to decide who they wanted. This is going to be a fun season. Finally I found out that Jamieson was at John's & sure enough we all got in the car to drop Conner off & Bruce came driving down the other side of the road. So all sorted, Ross the kids & I were off to do some shopping. We got some really good stuff the boys got some shoes, we got Ross his birthday present (Happy Birthday Ross for the 3rd July), then we stopped and grabbed some more stuff for that evening that I had forgotten in the morning. We arrived home around 4.00 & Bruce & Conner arrived 5.30 (they were running really late, the draft took too long.) We started taking everything over to the function room, the Charles's arrived around 6.00. We all just sat around in the room & chatted, it was really great. The boys all wanted to go & have a swim so we made our way outside. Jeff, Lisa & the kids arrived around 7.00 and not long after we had some dinner. I think everyone had a good time. A little later we all went outside again so the kids could go for another swim before it got too dark. It was such a beautiful night, still really warm. The Charles's left around 10.30ish, poor little Cooper couldn't get settled. Jeff, Lisa & the kids left around 11.30; we cleaned up & made our way back to the apartment. I had a really nice time & I hope the others did too. It was around 12.30 - 1.00 by the time we all organised the dishes then ourselves & went to bed. But it was a good day, a long one for Bruce at the stadium from 8.00 - 6.00 is a big day. The others got some shopping done & we all had a really cool evening having some dinner & chatting with some new good friends. Sunday (Happy Father's Day) We all slept in until 9.00am. BIG SLEEP!! Australia was playing Soccer so the boys all sat watching that until around 10.30. I made pancakes & we did pressies at the table. Bruce got the kettle he's been wanting for a while. We were all packed & into the van (BAGS & ALL) by 11.30 & on our way to San Fransisco. Of course traffic again, BLAH!! We had to wait in queues to get over the Bay Bridge for AGES!!!! You have no idea, we had all had enough of the traffic by then. Anyway we finally got into the city & found the Hilton. Ross & the kids piled out of the car & booked into the hotel. Then off we went to find the Golden Gate Bridge, Bruce was on a mission. I have to say, it was worth the wait, it's only a bridge but it was amazing. We took heaps of pics (thanks Ross from the front seat) I got some video (Bruce is putting together) & all the kids were impressed. We got a park on the other side of the bridge & had some pics taken with the bridge etc, then Ross & the kids went for a quick walk on the bridge before we got back in the van & made our way over it again. Our next stop was Pier 39 - Elise was just in awe of the bridge though. She has a new obsession, the Bridge!!! We got to the Pier 39 area, parked the car & headed off towards the landmark. We stopped for a Starbucks (too warm up, the wind was cold) we walked along the streets towards the Pier. We did some shopping while we were there. The boys got a puppet from the same store that Bruce bought "Ralphie" (dog puppet) all those years ago. They used their birthday money, we just have to work out who's birthday money we are allocating it too. (Stay tuned) It was now around 5.30- 6.00 & we were all hungry & the boys wanted to see Game 5 (of the NBA finals). We ended up eating at "In & Out" the kids new favorite burger place. We drove around the streets & came across the Bendiest street in the world (got pics), then went back to the hotel & watched the last quarter of the game. The game ended & we made our way down to the car to say good bye, it wasn't as bad as the last time we said good bye, but it was sad & it did take me a couple of days to perk up. It was a quiet drive home, cause the kids were sleeping & we were just on a downer. They had gone, I'd just got used to them being there. Guys we had a great time - I hope you did too. We drove into Lakepoint around 11.30, what a weekend, we were stuffed to say the least. But it was another great day, we saw new stuff, the kids learnt new things, & can't wait to go back to San Fransisco to see more, so that should be fun. Cause we can do that anytime. Monday Well, it must have been a big weekend, I woke up without a voice, & not feeling that crash hot. (Thanks Rhys, good sharing!!!!) The boys all went off to school, Bruce went off to work & I stayed at home all morning & cleaned the apartment & did washing. I picked up Jamieson, we came home & rested in front of the TV until around 2.00 then we headed for the pool, for a little while. Conner came down after school. We had a swim & made our way home around 3.00. On the way back we ran into Makisha (Jakary's mum) Bit of news, his dad Johnny died suddenly last weekend (a big shock for us, I had spoken to him a couple of days before) anyway, she was taking his suit to the funeral home, so again I offered any help she needed. I think Jakary is 1 of about 5 or 6 kids. She is doing so well considering. They got through Father's Day OK she said. Anyway, we all got home & just chilled out for the rest of the afternoon. It was hot outside, around 100F today. Bruce got home & we had some dinner & were in bed early. All stuffed. Tuesday Today was a waste of a day for me, I spent most ofthe day in bed or on the floor. Got some sleep in which was good, but the voice was still gone. (yes, I'm sure it was very quiet) HA HA!!! Bruce had a good day working at the table, Jamieson came home & watched TV with me. Then Conner came home. We shaved Jamieson's head, not off, just short. A real summer hair cut. A little later the boys went off to the pool for a little while. They got back around 6.00, we had some dinner & went off to bed. Not a very exciting day. Chilling day for everyone. I'm just hoping the kids or Bruce don't get this, maybe just the voice thing. (not really) Wednesday Bruce was out of the house early again this morning. So I had to get up & get the kids to school. I made it over & got back OK. Then I had a rest & started tidying the apartment. Did some washing & had a rest. Bruce called mid morning to made sure I was ok. I had a shower & dressed into something decent to pick Jamieson up from school. It was going to be a hot one today around 105F. I have a little bit of a voice today. But you have to be next to me to hear. Ronnie the maintanence man thought it was pretty funny, that I couldn't talk. We had a giggle. The boys got home from school, later Bruce got home from work. Conner bought home some work & his new grades - CONNER MADE THE HONOR ROLL FOR SCHOOL - he has a B average for all subjects... we are very proud - can you tell? Then around 5.00 we went down to the pool for a swim. HOT DAY!!!! We had a swim, I caught up with Misty while Cayton & Cassey swam with Jamieson. We got home around 6.30 & had a light dinner. Too hot to cook, we had toasted sandwiches. Then we shaved Conner's head (not short) so now they both have their summer cuts. They were in bed around 8.00 for a good night's sleep, I hope. It's now around 10.30 & we are off too bed. Bruce is asleep on the couch already. Another day gone, & they are getting warmer. It's going to be in the 100's for the next few days. Look Out!!! Thursday We woke up at the usual time. The boys went off to school & Bruce started work at the table. I still wasn't 100% so I dosed in bed for a little while, before getting up & doing the usual. Cleaning & washing etc. Bruce went off to a meeting, I sat around not doing a whole lot, which was all I was capable of, I think. I'm in between, yes I'm fine, then a little while later, I could just lay down for a rest. My voice is better, I think tomorrow, it will be back. Picked up jamieson from school, then just rested for a while, which was ok with him, as it was around 100F outside. Bruce got home from his meeting, I grabbed the van & went out to do some groceries. On the way out I followed a few cars behind Mykeesha's car. They must have been burying Johnny today. I let them all through then followed them out of the complex. I got back with some food, then Conner got home from school. Bruce was working & the boys & I just hung out until around 4.00 when we went down to the pool for an hour or so. Around 5.00 we came in started to get ready for our dinner outing. We decided to go out a celebrate Conner's getting on the honor roll at a local restaurant, Pete's. We had been there before, when we first arrived in Elk Grove, we were looking around for apartments that day & stopped in there for lunch. Beautiful food & really nice people. We got there around 6.00. The boys got their colouing place mats & off they went. Bruce ordered Mozerella sticks for us all. Nice but you can only have a couple, so of course (being cheese) Jamieson had 7. Our dinner arrived, I ordered some chicken pasta thing, it came out with 2 chicken breasts with the pasta. That also included a salad as well. Bruce ordered his pasta & had soup instead. All included in the pasta price. Pretty cool, hey!! Conner had some chicken & Jamieson had spaghetti, which he refused to eat because it had (Parmasen) in it. Then after watching us for a few minutes he tried it & went MMM YUM!!! We all really only got 1/2 to 2/3's of the way through our meals & were ablsolutley stuffed. So we rolled out of the restaurant around 8.00 and headed home. We got out of the van & Jamieson made a pit stop or chuck stop to get rid of all those mozarella sticks. The boys went to bed and Bruce did a little work & I rested on the bed. It was still quite warm when we got into to bed, thank goodness for our ceiling fan. Another hot one forecast for tomorrow. Friday Another week has nearly gone again. We woke up to a very warm Friday morning. Bruce left early for the office & the boys went off to school. I came home & did the usual, then just chilled out inside until it was time to pick up Jamieson. On the way to do just that, I ran into Mykeesha (Jakary's Mum) she was standing outside with her Mum. I asked here how yesterday went she said OK, then we were just chatting about it & she starting crying. Which she hadn't done in front of me, so you can imagine me. By this time it was 11.29 & I didn't want to leave, so I chatted a little longer, we had hugs & I made her promise that she would call if she needed us and all that & had to go at a very unfortunate time. So you can imagine me walking to school. Deep breathes, deep breathes, poor Jamieson was waiting for me. The day before we had arranged to have a swim with Grant & his mum Kerri & sister Anna. So we organised for them to come here a little later. We dropped into the office as Conner needed some ventolin, (I think he's going to have to go to the dr's, it must be the heat) the weird thing is that my asthma is pretty much gone. Go figure!! We go there, he was actually ok, had a puff & was off. Jamieson & I came home, checked emails at the office, thank you to Michelle, Mum & Sandi. Always good to hear from home, even if it's nothing. Had some lunch and was at the pool by 1.00 waiting for Grant to get there. They arrived & the kids went off to swim, as did Kerri & I for a lot of the time. they left around 3.30 & I sat around under the umbrella chatting to Millie until around 4.00. It was hot, & if you were not in the water you had to be in the shade. You can imagine how hot it must be for me to say that. We chilled out until around 5.30 & headed out so Conner could spend some of his birthday money. We hit Toys R Us & he got a Pirate ship thing that he saw & wanted, & a small basketball to practise his ball handling with & a basketball ring for his bedroom door. We got home around 9.00 had a quick easy dinner (toasted sandwiches) & Jamieson went off to bed. Big day tomorrow, his first basketball training session. Very exciting!!! The stadium is air conditioned thank goodness. Conner has training & a birthday party as well. Then has Elliott's birthday party all day Sunday at Marine World. Should be fun accept that it's going to be 108F. Stinking hot!!!! to say the least. The good thing is that it's close to San Fransisco, so it is slightly cooler than it is here. Anyway, I hope that everyone has a great weekend, even though it's kind of nearly over. I hope everyone won. Dylan gets home tomorrow, (Sunday) I hope you had a great trip to Germany. We would love to hear how it all went, give Bruce a call, he wants to hear how it all went. The Kids & Ross got back during the week, I hope that you guys had a good flight, (I hear you did) & are happy to be home, (kind of). Enjoy the rest of the school holidays guys. Elise I hope you get all your homework done! Rhys, keep sleeping!!!! & growing!!! Love & Kisses to everyone, XXXXXX

New Pictures......

happy 10th birthday Connner

CONNER, JAMIESON,

JOHN,DYLAN & CAMERON

THE OLD VAN - THE LOVE BUS

THE NEW VAN - NO NAME YET

Memorial Day at Charles's

from June 10th

Saturday We woke up & were out of the house by 9.30. We drove over to the office to pick up the van. Then we made our way to the airport to pick up Elise & Rhys from Las Vegas. But not before we had to stop on the side of the freeway for Jamieson to have a chuck!! The kids arrived at 11.00. YEAH!!!! We all jumped into the van & trotted back home to Elk Grove. We sat down & relaxed for a while, then I took the kids out for a drive to show them around. We stopped at Old Navy for a quick look around. 2 hours later we arrived home with Lunch OOPPSS!! We had lunch around 3.00, yummy fresh warm chicken sandwiches, then we headed down to the pool so the kids could sit in the sun. Millie, Misty & Nikki were there chatting, so we sat around the table for a while, while the kids & Jamieson swam etc. We got back to the apartment around 5.30 to get ready to go out. We decided to take them to Folsom Outlet Mall for a look around. We got there and the boys went off in one direction & the girls in another. It was weird shopping with someone else. I'm used to doing it by myself. Elise bought a couple of things & we got back in the van around 8.45 to find In & Out burgers for some dinner. The food there is absolutely the best. The menu is very limited but YUM!!!! We finished and got into the van (after pics) and headed to the office to get the old van for Bruce to drive for the week. Then we made our way home. It was around 10.30 when we got home so the kids went to bed & we stayed up till about 11.30 talking with the kids, catching up. It was around midnight when we got to bed but it was a good day. Sunday We woke up around 7.00 & Elise & I went out walking for an hour then off to the gym for a work out. We got ready & jumped in the van to go to "The Old Sacramento", city centre etc. We arrived at Old Sac around 11.00 parked the car & started to make our way around. It was a beautiful day and we walked around looking at all the shops. We had Salt water taffy, saw wolves in a cage, steam boats, and lots of shops. After a couple of hours we'd all had enough. So we headed into the Plaza so Elise could go to Forever 21 shop to do some shopping. She had a good time and bought a couple of tops so she was happy. We met the boys at Johnny Rockets then made our way to the van to go to our last stop the Govenors House. (Mini White House) Pics to folllow. We got back around mid afternoon & went down to the pool for an hour or so. We got back, the kids called home & we had dinner. The NBA Finals Game 1 started was on. The kids were in bed around 8.00 & we sat down & settled in for some TV. Rhys wasn't feeling very well, I went off to bed around 10.30 (early for me) and the others stayed up for a while longer. Monday I got up around 7.00, Bruce had already left for his meeting. I dragged Jamieson out of bed around 7.30. I woke Elise & Rhys up at 7.30 as the Socceroos were playing on the TV. They won 3-1. So Yeah!!! We got to school, Rhys was still not well, Jetlag so he stayed & slept & Elise & I went out for a walk & workout. We got back around 10.00. Bruce got home not long after, his meeting was cancelled so he went to Starbucks to work instead. I did the usual tidying, washing etc & we went & got Jamieson from School. We had some lunch & the kids & I went to do groceries. We got back & went to the pool, it wasn't really the warm day today. Hopefully it will improve for the kids over the next few days. We have a couple of things planned but more so for the end of the week. We got back from the pool around 4.00 sat around the apartment & I started organising dinner. The boys all went out around 5.30 to kick the footy & I cooked dinner. We had dinner & the kids & I went out to a couple of places to do a little shopping. We got a few things, came home & were all in bed by 11.00. Tuesday We woke up & did the usual, Elise & I worked out. The weather was not the great. Really overcast so not a great day to do anything. The kids went off to school, Bruce went off to work again for more meetings. Rhys slept on the couch for most of the day. Elise & I just bummed around at the business centre & the apartment etc. Jamieson got home from school & we didn't really do anyhting exciting at all. Elise was dissapointed about the weather. The rest of the day was pretty much the same, Bruce got home from work & Conner from school, we had some dinner & watched a bit of TV & went off too bed. A pretty boring day even by our standards. Wednesday --- BIG DAY!! (Jelly Belly Factory Tour) We all woke up & did the usual morning things. Got the kids off to school, but Bruce forgot to give Conner the note for leaving early so I had to go back and get the note & take it back. Then I ran into another mother from the complex Shelby. By the time I finshed talking to her, I wasn't really in the mood for a workout so I just headed back to the apartment, where I had let the kids sleep. They woke up around 10.00, so that was good for them. Rhys was still not well & Elise needed the sleep. Went to the business centre etc & by the time all that was done it was time to pick up Jamieson. We organised for him to go to a friends place (Grant) for a play tomorrow so he was pretty excited. The kids were sitting by the pool soaking up the rays. Jamieson joined them, I sat down for a few minutes then it was time to go back & get Conner from school. We came home had some lunch & spent a little time by the pool before we had to go. We headed off for the Jelly Belly factory at 1.45. We got onto the freeway (1st time by myself) I got all the right turnoffs (Yeay for me!!) we drove past the Vacaville Outlet mall. Then about 10 minutes after that there it was the JELLY BELLY FACTORY!! We were just in time for the next tour, 3.oo. We put on our jelly belly hats, not so cute. Then we headed off into the factory, about 5 minutes in of course Jamieson needs to go to the bathroom. (GOD PLEASE HELP ME) then the tour got more interesting and he didn't need go anymore, fancy that. The tour was a good one, there was not much going on in the way of production but they had video screen & the guide was really nice. We got some free samples & headed down to the shop. We had to get Cameron Tudor some. We picked a couple of things out, got a bag of them & straws & pencils for the kids. Then about 4.30 we headed off back down the freeway. On the way we saw COSTCO, so we parked and went into show the kids what we are talking about all the time. Campbells on steroids is probably hard to imagine when they had not idea what Campbells was. So in we went. Jamieson was in the trolley so we could have a less stressful visit. We walked around, Elise got some Chewy (12 pkts) we got Nicola her hershey's chocolate sauce & a few other things. We were going to have some pizza for dinner, but then the boys started doing their thing, & after 5 minutes of going around in circles I'd had enough and they got nothing. We got back into the car & went to Vacaville Outlet mall, so Rhys could have a look around for some stuff. He found Ralph Lauren tops so that was good. By the time we got home it was around 6.30 so we had some dinner & the kids went to bed. The kids & I headed off down to have a spa, which was really nice. We got back & headed off to bed. So it was a good day, we did something new & I think the kids had a good time. Thursday Elise & I got up took the kids to school, Bruce went off to work & we worked out. Came back, tidyed up & I went out to do some errands & the kids went to sit by the pool. The day was going to be a warm one, so I told Elise to stay by the pool and bake. I took off & did some stuff & got back around lunch, sat with the kids by the pool, then headed off to get Jameison from Grants place. He was at the Community pool, wich was really nice. It is a community centre for the people who live in lakeshore community. We got back and Jamieson joined the kids at the pool. Conner got home and came down to the pool. I had to go and change & go to school to scoop ice cream for the Ice cream Social tomorrow night. Bruce was at the office then he picked Ross up from the airport and they got back home around 3.00. I got back from school around 4.30 & Elise was still at the pool. The boys had gone back to the apartment. We all headed back & I started on dinner. This is being posted Sunday night and we still have to add a few days. We just got back from San Francisco - awesome day. More news soon! Hope you are all well Love from US!

from June 2nd

FRIDAY

Today started out like any other day. The boys went off to school & Bruce went off to the office for some meetings. I did the usual, although feeling a bit blah today so decided that this was my day off from a workout. I went to the business centre to do some work for Bruce (starting the Australian contacts database) not fun, have to say. But it's for a good cause US!! Picked Jamieson up from school then headed back to the apartment. We had something to eat & by that time it was nearly 12.30, time to pick up Conner. The school was having a half day for a Track change. We picked up Conner & headed back to change & go to the pool. Millie had organised for Lexie's friend Charlie to come over & they were having some pizza & cake cause Lexie was sick for his birthday. All the kids had a swim then the pizza arrived, so they dug in. It ended up being quite a very warm afternoon. Kaylee arrived to join the fun. Not long after that Misty came down with her Step Children who had just arrived for the summer from Alabama. As the afternoon continued the kids all played together & all the girls just sat out chatting, in & out of the pool. Jamieson & Kaylee always have a great time together, she just thinks he's fabulous & he plays off it. It's very fun to watch. Bruce called around 4.30 today he was on his way, so around 5.00 everyone started to get ready to go back home. It was a great afternoon, a really good way to finish the week. All the girls got to hang out & all the kids pay together really well. We came in & the kids went out to play for a while, we had a late dinner & the kids stayed up to watch some TV for a while, then they were in bed by 10.00. We did some work on the laptop & went to bed - Exhausted!!! But I have to say it was a great day for us. Bruce is making great progress with his job, & the boys & I had a great afternoon. A GOOD DAY FOR US!!!!! SATURDAY We all woke up a little later as you could imagine. (Accept for Conner, woke up at 6.30) GRRR!! I got up around 7.30 & headed off for a walk - considering I did nothing the day before, & didn't like that. I'm really starting to get into this work out thing, it's fun, sometimes. Everyone was up and around by 8.30. Bruce & Conner went off to do some training around 9.30 then off to watch Elliott in his basketball final at 10.00. They got back at 12.00, just in time for lunch. Shortly after I went out to grab some stuff for when the kids get here. Millie called not long after, so I went back & picked her up, then off we headed out again. By the time we got back it was after 3.00. Much to our amazement. But I got everything that I wanted to get so the outing was successful. We got back & I changed & was heading down to the pool to meet the boys when they came home. Jamieson wanted to go back so he & I headed back down. Bruce & Conner stayed behind & chilled out. We didn't stay long, I think spending so much time the day before was enough for a couple of days. We got back & while I was gone it was organised that Conner was going to have a sleep over at Jeff's with his son Cameron. Then I spoke to Liz on skype which was cool, cause I haven't spoken to her in a couple of weeks, we talked for around 1/2 an hour then she had to go and get ready cause she was working at the shop. Made me homesick talking to her. Not sure cause it's been a while or just cause it's Liz. So we had some dinner & Bruce & Conner went out to meet them at the golf course nearby where Cameron had been playing golf that afternoon. I got on the laptop & did some work & Jamieson watched some TV. Another late night for Jamieson, hopefully he will sleep in in the morning. Bruce spoke to Pete on skype, then around 11 we headed off to bed. Another day gone, but it was a good one. We all had fun and thats what it's all about. SUNDAY

Today was a pretty cool day. Bruce went out around 10 to go looking for vans with Jeff. Conner was staying at Jeff's, he & Cameron went to a Water park for the day. Jamieson & I spent the morning chilling & then around 12.00 we headed down to the pool. Angela (complex manager) & her daughter Nicole were there. It was only us so we had a good chance to catch up on all the gossip. She was promoted this week so most of the staff in the office was being moved around. her new position sounds like a lot of fun. Around an hour or so later people started arriving to the pool. Jamieson & I left around 3.00 & went home. The boys arrived home around 5.30 after a long day. Conner had a great time with Cameron & Bruce found a couple of vans, but as usual finance was the problem. that is starting to get me very frustrated, you can imagine how Bruce is feeling. We had some dinner & spoke to mum & dad on skype. Bruce did some work & I went to the gym for a walk. We were in bed at the usual time. So it was a chilling day for some of us & a busy one for the others. Another week had some & gone. MONDAY, TUESDAY Well the start to our week was like the rest. Bruce was off early for his breakfast meeting with Jeff. The boys went off to school & I did the usual. I went into the business centre to do some work etc. Pretty usual stuff, which you've all heard too much for me. The rest of the days was about the same. I think the novelty is wearing off & our routine is starting to get like a real routine. Pick up Jamieson, have lunch, Conner from school, go to the pool. Do homework, have dinner, etc etc. Bruce heads off to the gym etc etc. Blah blah blah!!!!!!! Monday I went to Costco to get some fruit, 1.8 kg strawberries for $5.50 & 2 pounds of bananas for 97c. And bulk meat etc. I'm stocking up for when the kids get here. Saturday, they leave on Thursday, so they will be in the country then. WOO HOO!!!(Liz was telling me that the price of bananas has gone through the roof at home), so it's worth the trip. I also started getting Conner's birthday stuff. He wants the adventures of Limeny Snickets & they have them there. So he is getting all 12 books (only n# 13 they didn't have) The only out of the ordinary thing would be on Tuesday the parcel from The Hultgrens arrived. YEAY!!!! A very big thank you to all!!! The kids were 100's & 1000's yeah, Conner was VEGEMITE WOW!!, Milo, COOL, and they were both very excited to get a game from Grandma Hultgren that they played all the time when they visited. So that was a bit of excitement. WEDNESDAY

We woke up to another beautiful Wednesday, the breeze was a bit cool but I went for my walk after dropping the kids off to school. Bruce was working at the dining room table. I did the usual in the morning, tidying,washing etc etc. Bruce went off to buy a van! (crossed fingers). Jamieson & I had lunch pottered around until Conner got home from school. he didn't want to go to the pool so off we trotted & Conner stayed home to do homework & watch Jimmy Neutron. A relaxing afternoon for all. Bruce arrived home around 3.30 - 4.00 in our NEW/OLD car. Yes, we are driving around in a minvan. (it made the most sense, driving the kids & their friends & visitors when they come over.) & it fits into Bruces plan, we have to do/get something we wouldn't at home. I have to say, I don't hate it at all. It's a nice novelty. Conner was like Yeah, you can be like Ros (Livingston) that's cool. So that was an exciting part of the day. The afternoon continued on, then around 5.30 we jumped into the new van & took off to Ikea to buy a couple of things more for when the kids get here & have a Hot Dog & Cinnamon roll for dinner. (Cheap meal, great shopping) The boys love going to the play room & Bruce & I get to walk around and look at all the Summer Sale specials, we got a couple too. We finished up around 8.30 & headed home. The boys went straight to bed, I headed off around 10.30. Bruce stayed up until 2am finishing some work he has a presentation for at the end of the week. It was all in his head & he had to get it out. I'm used to it now, when it's flowing you have to go with it, whatever time it is. THURSDAY

I woke up to a semi cloudy kind of day with a fresh breeze. I checked the flight Schedule & they were due to arrive at around 7.30am. I checked my email before getting the kids ready for school. We left for school & walking & I told Bruce to go back to sleep. I don't think that happened, early night for him tonight. I got back around 9.00 & we had a cuppa, & I went through his work from the night before. (Put my old skills to work) It's a really great presentation, hopefully they will feel the same, he covered all the bases. Jamieson & I had some lunch & went out in the new car, post office, etc. We got home & went down to the pool. Didn't stay long Jamieson wasn't allowed to swim cause he was not that well behaved while we were out. The brake from the sun did us both good. Bruce finished his work & came down to lay out for a while. I cooked dinner (vegies - mmm) & we sat down & all watched game 1 NBA Finals. The boys went off to bed around 7.30, & Bruce did some work while I watched some TV, we were in bed around 11.00. Bruce checked his messages & found a text from Elise with their numbers on them, so we will call them tomorrow. FRIDAY

We woke up & Bruce had already left for his breakfast meeting. The boys & I went off to school, then I came home & cleaned the apartment & also moved a few things around as well. It took shorter than I thought, even with the moving around. I moved the desk into our room & extended the table out. It's bigger than I remembered. I only extended it out one of the pieces, there is still another piece. So it has the potential to be huge. I also blew up the extra beds for when the kids get here tomorrow, we can't wait. They are in Las Vegas at the moment, I hope they are having a great time. It's such a fun place. Jamieson & I headed down to the pool around 12 as Misty & her kids were there & wanted to play. I made some lunch & took it down to the pool. Bruce & Conner got home & Bruce came down to sit with us for a bit of a bake. Apparently Ross called while he was in a meeting so he couldn't find out how they were going, but they were here & ok so that good news. He had a good day at work. We got back form the pool around 4.30 & headed out to get a birthday present for a party Conner has tomorrow. I found Chocolate Licorice while at Target, quite yummy. There was also some Australian Licorice, I will buy some another time & see. I got back & the kids were out playing & Bruce was getting ready to go out & play basketball with Alfie. He left around 6.45 & the boys came in for dinner, showers etc.