Blue skies...

What a beautiful sunny weekend we have just had. On Saturday the two younger girls and I set off for the first day of ballet for 2010. Sunday has decided to give ballet a go too, here she is above, on the far left, looking so lovely in pale blue.

Rosie's class was next and she was so excited to have her friend Freya joining her.

Back at home we settled in to a bit of gardening... check out this zucchini! It's so massive and bizarre. Mark took it to school today to show his class. I don't know how this fella snuck under the radar, he has been growing in there, on the quiet for weeks!

It's been fun being out in the garden as the weather has been so pleasant. Our summer hasn't been as hot as last years, nor has there been the same threat of bushfire. Although there is always the potential for fire we haven't had the same relentless days of heat & wind. It was a sad weekend too in the remembering of the devastation of Black Saturday & the loss of life, of families, children, loved ones, animals, homes. I feel a real emptiness inside when I think of what people have gone through in the year since the fires. I hope that they are healing and finding hope in their lives. One of the good things that came out of the fire though was the sense of community. All over Australia, and the world, people's hearts went out to the victims of the fires. Generous and caring people helped to rebuild, sent money and clothing, toys and bedding and love. I'm sure this made a difference.

On Sunday the girls & I walked up to the Daylesford Sunday Market.

Passing this sheep...

...and this cute puppy. Her name is Schnoogie!

The market was bustling and fun and full of treasures. Pet Rock's were the popular item of the day!

Soon it was time to head back home where my decluttering is continuing.

As a dedicated hoarder & opshopper I am concious that my house is rather ....cluttered. This also comes from acquiring bits from my grandparents when they died, Mark's parents & my stepfather. Lots of books! Which I love but I'm thinking some may have to go.

So my project for 2010 (it could take that long) is to keep decluttering, sorting & being careful not to go too crazy in the opshops (this is hard). I really should have my own shop so that I can justify my treasure hunting tendencies! Anyway, I'm enjoying going through things and trying to make the house a bit neater but still warm and friendly. These shelves below are a major magnet for 'stuff'. This is the before photo, stay tuned for the after shot!

We finished a lovely weekend with a swim at the pool and icecreams at the icecream shop, which is sadly closing down.

Blue skies, a swimming pool, icecream, & friends.

Life is good! Hope you had a great weekend too, see you soon xo