Fortress Sydney

This week Sydney hosts the APEC conference (Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation) so world leaders including those from Japan, China, New Zealand and, of course, the US are in town. Because Bush is among them a large part of downtown Sydney has been forced into lockdown with the erection of a huge security fence wrapped around the Opera House (where the conference is being held), Circular Quay and other central locations. Sydneysiders are being actively encouraged to leave the city. It seems ridiculous that the conference is not being held in Canberra, after all it is the capital of Australia and where the federal parliament is, and that such over the top security should be required. Friday is now an APEC public holiday. Good grief.

Welcome home

Rob came home on Sunday morning (Father's Day here) after five days in New Zealand. He had jumped on a plane to Auckland on Tuesday, after learning that his Dad's wife Doreen had died last Saturday. Rob's brother Craig and sister Catherine also made their way to Keri Keri for the funeral on Thursday. While a very sad event, Rob said it was great to spend time with his family and with old familiar family friends who also made the journey up to the beautiful Bay of Islands region where Ian and Doreen have lived for many years. As well as shopping for a suitcase full of NZ- themed gifts for me and the girls - an NZ-shaped mirror, NZ-shaped canape dishes, toy kiwi, mud from Rotorua etc - he also found time to pop to the local barber in Keri Keri for a trim. We celebrated Rob's return with a whole salmon cooked on the BBQ and a Father's Day lunch with our old friends and neighbours from Leichhardt Rob and Freya, and Dave and George.

The Fete

Scarlett has been badgering me to go to the local fete ever since I foolishly mentioned seeing the words 'jumping castle' and 'face painting' on one of the flyers stuck on lamp posts in our street. I may also have blurted out that the flyer mentioned that Tim from children's supergroup Hi-5 would be making a personal appearance. Well, Saturday was the big day and with Rob tucked up in bed sleeping off his night shift, I set off with Florence in the pram and Scarlett running eagerly alongside. We got about 4cm into the fete before Scarlett spotted the face painting stall. A full face butterfly design later, she then saw the jumping castle and ferris wheel AT THE SAME TIME. Fever pitch excitement ensued, much jumping, yelping etc. She seemed genuinely oblivious to the fact that the whole point of going to a fete is to buy a big iced cake baked by a local jolly fat lady and possibly some jam and chutney. At 11am, I persuaded her to come off the ferris wheel with the promise of a hot dog, so I could shovel a mixture of pumpkin, sweet potato and broccoli into Florence. Then - quelle horreur!! - we discovered Tim from Hi-5 was arriving at midday, right at the time we would be taking Florence home for her lunchtime kip. Using my supermum powers I was able to rush us all home, throw Florence into her cot, ditch the pram and leg it back to the fete with Scarlett. When you are 3 or 4 or even 5, meeting Tim from Hi-5 is the pre-school equivilant to, say, George Michael turning up at your house as the partner of one of your dinner party guests (assuming that is he was able to make the journey without falling asleep at any traffic lights on the way). The crowd went wild when Tim appeared announcing he would be judging a dancing competition and that prizes would be awarded to the best dancers. As I shoved Scarlett to the front in the manner of a pushy stage mother (think Terri Shields or Jodie Foster's mum), she turned to me and said "I'm not dancing. I don't like Tim'. And that was that.

The Simpsons

Here are pictures of Rob, Scarlett, Florence and I and our cat Pam if we were in The Simpsons. Look out for us at http://www.simpsonsmovie.com/main.html?cid=us

Too cute

We think Florence is rather cute. Biased, of course, but just look at those cheeks, packed full of nuts for winter. Now that winter is almost over we have no more use for the nuts and have spent the last two days trying to coax Flo into eating her first solids, the entirely unexciting and unappetising white stuff that is baby rice. Just as Scarlett did when it was first offered to her, Flo pulled a face not unlike Queen Victoria's on learning a train station was being named after her. None of the baby rice even made it to the back of her throat, instead a great deal of coughing, eye rolling and spitting accompanied the eventual jettisoning of the baby rice back onto my spoon. Will try again tomorrow. Perhaps a trip to the local Italian festival later today will get her juices flowing.

Almost Spring

It only took us about a week to get over Florence's christening - the emotion, the mess, the hangovers. I am very much looking forward to my 2-hour renewal spa session tomorrow, comprising a facial and massage. Rob's Mum Barb stayed on for a second week and she has been absolutely loving the time she has been spending with Flo and Scarlett, including plenty of cuddles and toenail painting. On Saturday I took Scarlett to the fairy-themed birthday party of her friend Genevieve who was turning 4. They are all at such a funny age at 3 and 4 as everyone is quite surly and aloof with each other, something I didn't think happened until your 30s. Even though all the kids were dressed up in their favourite outfits as fairies, superheroes etc they all looked quite cross until the marshmallows and face painting appeared, and Scarlett was reborn as a beautiful butterfly. The weather has changed, pretty much overnight, from chilly but sunny winter to stunningly clear warm days with a distinct smell of Summer about them, despite Spring not officially starting until September 1. Yesterday it was so gorgeous, we packed everyone off to Balmoral beach for the afternoon. A stiff breeze allowed for some top kite flying action by Miss S. This morning we hit a local park complete with swings, slide etc for the kids, barbecues on which to cook children who misbehave and a figure of 8 bike riding track which was a hoot for Scarlett. Florence had her first go, at 20 weeks, on a swing and a slide. Her face was a picture as it changed from shock to bemusement to amusement to panic and right back again. Scarlett swung right next to her whilst indulging her new habit of wearing two different shoes. Rob in the meantime is convinced his little All Black is close to walking.

Florence is christened

Hooray - on Sunday Florence was christened at St John's, our local Anglican church. The sun shone, the food was organised, the cupcakes displayed, the champagne, wine and beer chilling. Everything was perfect. A disaster was avoided early on when we all left the house, suited and booted in our church finest, shut the door behind us and then realised none of us had any door keys and so we had locked ourselves out of the house leaving all the food for our post-christening function inside and us outside. Thankfully someone pointed out that all the booze was outside - cooling in large tubs of ice - and that the dog door in the laundry was big enough for nephew Ryan to slip through and open up the house. Phew. Flo was a treat, allowing the vicar Andrew to totally drench her in great handfuls of water, soaking her gown and wondersuit through, without even a raised eyebrow from her. She was perfect. We had 40-odd friends back at the house for a party complete with jumping castle for the kids, an emotional speech from me and lots and lots of laughs with good friends. A highlight was the beautiful letter Godfather Drew had written to Flo which Melissa read out to much sniffling and handing out of tissues. Flo was attended by her godparents James and Amelia, Georgia, Drew, Melissa, and Mark who flew in from NZ especially. Godparents in absentia were Sarah-Kate in NZ and Mike Bailey in England. It was a special treat to have Rob's mum, Barb, over from NZ, plus his brother Craig, sister-in-law Lynda and the cousins Nicole and Ryan who all flew down from Queensland. Flo was showered with gifts including her first pearl, a crystal, an engraved money box, a birthstone cross, a diamond ring, christening bangle, special edition books, an antique jewellery box, a music box and a watercolour painting celebrating her birth. A very special and proud day for us. Hooray for Flo.

An open letter to Florence Elizabeth Mary Duthie on the occasion of her baptism.
Sunday July 29 2007, Saint John’s Church, Ashfield


Dear Florence,
Remember, and this is important because it starts this letter, that you are very loved. We are here with you today because we understand what enormous potential you have and that it is now your job to be the best person you possibly can. If anyone should choose to challenge you on these basic truths you will simply have to look them straight in the eye and let them know that they are mistaken.

Now, for some other things to help you on your journey:

· Money spent in good bed lined (preferably Egyptian cotton) is not wasted. Around a third of your life will be in bed. Best to get it right.
· Despite their deliciousness, go easy on minties and redskins, especially once you develop your adult teeth. A crown costs about the same as a fun overseas holiday. I’m pretty sure you’d rather the latter.
· Travel.
· Invest in the basics: a good black cocktail dress, some satin kitten heels and keep the jewellery tasteful and discrete. That said, if you grow up to be the kind of girl who prefers King Gee overalls, power tools and refurbishing terraces in Newtown, then that’s OK by us too.
· Spend a good deal of your day asking questions. Search for the truth and be prepared to speak it.
· Learn to love libraries, museums and art galleries. Public institutions that celebrate our combined excellence are worth visiting now and again…even if it’s just means popping into the gift shop for a postcard.
· Read.
· Stand up for those who need your help. You’ll soon learn that too much nonsense in this world comes when clever, compassionate people such as yourself fear that they are rocking the boat. If the boat’s headed in the wrong direction Florence, then rock it!
· Be patient with your Mum and Dad. They love you unconditionally but you will inevitably clash. To avoid arguments try to do the following:

1. Call home if you are going to be late
2. Do your fair share of jobs around the house
3. Keep your grizzling to a minimum
· Cook, even if you do it badly. Don’t rely too much on cookbooks but make sure you taste as you go.
· Listen. A steady ear is the hallmark of a great friend and it makes the conversation all the better.
· Don’t tolerate bullies, bigots or someone out to get you rich quick. Instead, look to surround yourself with people who think independently, who act daringly and who give generously.
· Details are important but never lose sight of the big picture.
· Laugh.
· Lists are good for when you go shopping but don’t let them rule your life. Not even this one!
· Hug your grandparents when you visit them. They think you are perfect so don’t go spoiling your ruse.
· The greatest investment you will make will be in your education, and I don’t mean just school. Learn lots of things along the way Florence and look to make the world a better place because you are here.
· Love someone: intimately, honestly and completely. It will be the most frightening thing you will ever do but it will also bring you your greatest joy.
· Technology is a means to an end so don’t get too caught up in the latest gadgets. Jane Austen wrote with ink and paper. A new computer is only really a box with wires. It’s the imaginative mind that works the keyboard that is the true marvel.
· Daydream.
· Avoid watching the Shopping Channel. Things look much better than they really are and anyway, how exciting can a bedazzler actually be?
· It’s probably a good idea to master another language while you’re here. A musical instrument would be good too. Avoid credit card debt, pay off your bills monthly and get swimming lessons in early. All this should go some way in making you a more rounded adult.
· Apparently blue and green should never be seen, unless there is something in between. This, Florence, is complete nonsense. Wear what makes you happy and tell whoever criticises you on this to kindly move on.
· Be sure to notice sunsets, the smell of the sea and grass beneath your bare feet.
· 4 Long Island Iced Teas is 1 Long Island Iced Tea too many.
· Though you may quibble with Scarlett she is likely to be with you for the long haul. Try to end your differences quickly and don’t hold grudges.
· Play.
· It’s quite OK to put a square peg in a round hole. It may not fit perfectly but it will make an interesting conversation point and might even be passed off as modern art.
· Never purchase cheap umbrellas, discount coffee or bargain on line medication. You’ll only regret it.
· Do not underestimate the power of your smile.

Finally may your God be one that shows you tolerance, patience and wisdom. May he or she afford you the chance to find wonder daily, pursue that which is right and constantly live with hope. I cannot expect that your life will be free from fear and sadness, but I trust that you build the resources to manage with things when they get difficult. May your time here Florence be one of fulfilment and worth, and may all who come to know you see within you true beauty, grace and richness.

Much love,
All of us

She smiles!

After weeks of trying, I finally managed to capture one of Flo's gorgeous little smiles. She spends most of her time smiling right up until the moment a camera appears and then she comes over all Victoria Beckham. Which reminds me, how hilarious was she in Victoria Beckham Coming to America? I had to watch it twice.

Happy Birthday to Zoo

Our nephew Jack turned 5 this week. I can't believe it was 5 years ago since I watched him being born in San Francisco. It doesn't feel like yesterday but it doesn't feel like 5 years ago either. Maria organised a pirate party for him and by the looks of it there were some right rum sorts there. The nutters above are my Dad and his wife Alexandra. Below, Maria with Jack.

As we couldn't be there in person, we celebrated by going to Taronga Zoo on one of the coldest days of the year. This winter really is like a proper northern hemisphere winter. (I got into bed for my afternoon nap yesterday wearing all my clothes and my scarf. My SCARF!).

Scarlett enjoyed finding out what it would be like to be really hard of hearing and we enjoyed hanging our with the meercats, surely one of the planet's coolest creatures as they chilled out in the sun. I wonder where they buy their sunglasses.

Flo, as ever, slept throughout. She is now 18 weeks old and a right little charmer. We are looking forward to her christening next weekend and in particular having a gathering of family and friends at a champagne reception afterwards. If it's anything like the knees up, I mean, function we had after Scarlett's christening there will some sore heads the morning after. Amen. Hic.

Parrrrrrteeeee!!

It was a busy weekend of socialising for a certain three year old what with a party, two play dates, a good old sing song up the church where Flo will soon be christened and batches of muffins to be made. Goodness me. Saturday morning saw us adorned in pinnies, slaving over a hot oven (preheated to 180 degrees) making a batch each of banana and chocolate chip muffins to take to James and Amelia's son Oscar's 1st birthday

party. As is commonly the way with any function thrown by James and Amelia, it was spectacularly catered, thanks in no small part to their secret weapon - James's mum - who seems to have a buffet permanently ready in her handbag to be pulled out at the drop of a hat. While an extravagant party was being laid at the party house Scarlett and I were larking about in ours and someone - not mentioning any names - let the muffins burn. We had to discard 3 three of the muffins for looking too much like the contents of a charcoal kiln I had recently seen a photo of in National Geographic and arrived at the party with just 9, an odd number by anyone's reckoning. On inspecting their darkened tops, James's mum plunged her hand into her Mary Poppins-like carpet bag and pulled out a small icing sugar shaker which she then applied to the burnt muffins giving them the renewed appearance of ice capped mountains. In the afternoon we set off for Julia and Richard's amazing new house for an afternoon play date with Ella, ending with dinner, a bath and an exciting drive home in PJs in the dark. Sunday morning we popped up to the church for a spot of light recreational God-bothering and loud singing to hymns written in the last 5 years (i.e you've never heard of them - what happened to Jerusalem?) so we can't be accused of only attending so we can get Flo christened there. After a refreshing nap, Scarlett's best friend from nursery, Milly, came over for a late roast chicken lunch with her Mum and Dad, Karl and Alison.

Wet week

The weather continues to be totally unseasonal and utter pants. We have not had a day at the beach all winter which is very unusual. Being stuck indoors with two small children and a husband sleeping off a night shift in a nearby room means one has to use one's imagination. Pretending it was fun to spend all day in our pyjamas - including going grocery shopping in them - had worn a little thin by day two, but the chance discovery of a small pile of party hats in the larder around dinner time brought some unexpected light relief to an otherwise dull day. You know you're getting desperate when the creation of a pretend laptop from an old box makes a 3-year-old's week. We however managed two great nights out. On Saturday night our friend Dave took 10 of us out to dinner to one of Sydney's great restaurants, The Boathouse, to celebrate his wife George's 40th. It was a truly great night of wonderful food and plenty of laughs. The evening started badly when Scarlett became hysterical when we left, eventually making herself sick. Lauren our babysitter - who also works at Scarlett's nursery - has babysat for Scarlett since she was a year old, and has never had to do a thing except sit and watch our telly while Scarlett slept. Now Scarlett is older and often still awake when Lauren arrives, we are trying to nurture a relationship between them. However when we told her we were going out and that Lauren was coming over she declared 'I don't like Lauren!' with full pout and the accompanying hysteria and vomiting. Last night we were going out again and this time decided things might go smoother if Lauren read Scarlett her bedtime books - including our new favourite Walter the Farting Dog Goes on a Cruise - the difference was extraordinary with Scarlett barely looking up as we left. We went to the Opera House to see Burt Bacharach perform all his top hits with the Sydney Symphony. Thankfully as the king of the love song is now 79 and with a voice much rougher than his smooth personality, he had three incredible singers on stage with him. It was a top night of singing along to his compositions including Walk On By,Say A Little Prayer, Alfie, What The World Needs Now, Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head, Close To You and many more. As often happens when I attend places i know I can't talk, I got a fit of the giggles. It happened during a Kiri Te Kanawa recital, at the opera - when I was saved by a pashmina I was able to stuff into my mouth, and again last night. At one point Burt was telling us about some new material, but his mouth was so close to the microphone you could hear his dentures whistling. It made him sound as if he mispronounced someone's name and I said to Rob "he probably said it right but his false teeth clattering around made it sound wrong.' Rob snorted with laughter and then turned to me and made the noise of gnashing teeth and saliva. At that moment the talking and applause stopped and room fell quiet, save the noise of a human making a half snort half honking noise from row C of the gallery. I had to keep waiting for loud applause just to let all the laughter out. Finally, a pic of our daughter the Hollywood actress, asleep in her eye mask.

Welcome home

Our lovely friend Julia and her daughter Ella arrived back this week, from 18 months living in Tokyo. Richard is there for another month before he comes back. We have missed them so much while they have been away, and our girls have done so much growing up since they last saw each other. Ella was really still a baby when they left and now she is the sweetest 2 and half year old. We have managed to gestate and produce a child while they have been away and Julia is now pregnant with their second child due at the end of the year. We all went out for dinner on Saturday night, alongwith Martin and Drew, with Scarlett under strict instructions to be nice to Ella and it was a great night. The only let down was Drew having to send his pizza back to the oven as it was too cold and it failing to ever materialise again. This week we also booked up a week on Lord Howe Island for my 40th birthday next May. I mention this only as it's a place you have to book up a long way in advance and to see if anyone else wants to join us. Lord Howe Island is two hours' flying time from Sydney and is an amazing Tahiti-type island in the Pacific, complete with perfect lagoon and mountain, amazing snorkelling and fishing and is actually part of NSW. Only 400 people are allowed to live there and visitor numbers are strictly controlled - a bit like Dollywood - hence us booking it today for a trip next May. There are no cars, only pushbikes and only one shop. Fancy it? The website for the place we are staying is http://www.arajilla.com.au/