Sheila's Wanderings

Mum and Ashlea's awesome adventure - Chiang Mai

2012-02-13T06:00:00.054+08:00

Ash and I arrived in Chiang Mai on Wednesday night and we had 5 days before leaving for Bangkok on Monday. The next day, we shared a taxi into town and got dropped off at one of the gates of the old city.

First stop - money changer.

Next stop - map. And then .... we walked. Aimlessly. I didn't know where to go, it was hot and we only passed small shops, restaurants ... frustrated, hot, I hailed a taxi and said "Take us to the nearest shopping centre."

The next week is spent sourcing, looking for and chasing an iPhone 4 for Ash. Chiang Mai has nice moderate weather, it's not a big city and not as touristy as others. Other than our one full day of touristy-stuff - tigers, elephants, snakes - we don't do too much.

Massages are cheap and I indulge in a quickie, at 60 baht for 30 minutes (less than $3)

Ash and I also catch the free shuttle bus from the hotel to the night bazaar, which has its ladyboys cabaret, and Ash picks up a few things to keep her happy.

I have a bowl of noodle soup for a late night supper and we sit on tiny stools and low tables.

Ash poses under a bright red umbrella at a tiny cosy place that we find, fried rice and lime juice quickly become our favourite.

Ash gets her first pedicure

We get around in tuk-tuks a lot; they are cheap, fast and convenient. I only have a problem with them when we are stuck in traffic, and then we are surrounded by choking fumes.

A scooter which doesn't look like it should be on the road. .....

It's quite hard going somewhere as a tourist. For some reason, I find western countries less challenging. As I was born and raised in Malaysia, perhaps I have this semi-opposition to being a tourist in an Asian country. I am reluctant to do the the touristy things, so then, what else is there left to do while on holiday?

I find one Asian country very like another, and so, the only thing that I look forward to is the cheapness and variety of food. The variety is great, and I really really wish we had the same variety of food in Perth (I know there's no point in wishing that it's as cheap).

This array of buns, pastries, cakes is enough to dazzle my eyes and stomach, and the prices .... mmmmmm!

18 baht is like 60 cents.

12 bath for donuts!

Mum and Ashlea's awesome adventure - Rainforest hotel, Chiang Mai

2012-02-10T06:00:00.002+08:00

I'd booked 5 nights at the Rainforest Boutique Hotel, and we arrived just before midnight. We got checked into our room pretty quickly, and I wanted to jump into bed but one of the lights was flickering and then wouldn't turn off. The staff didn't seem to speak English that well and it was an effort to explain that the light wouldn't turn off.

Eventually they just loosened or took the bulb off and I said - fix tomorrow. It never got fixed, so every night before going to bed we would have to take the keycard out so the light would go out. I mentioned it again when the plumbing got worse but on the last night, they showed us that it was on a dimmer switch ...

In the light of day, the room was a lot darker and dingier than in the photos. I'm not sure how they name the rooms- we got a "deluxe" room, there were also "superior" rooms - sounds grand but our room seemed pretty standard. The beds were a bit hard, plumbing and sinks never seem to work well in Thailand, a few mozzies somehow got in every night but didn't seem to bite. We didn't use the aircon much, and at night it was better and quieter with the aircon turned off.

Picture of the superior room from the Rainforest Hotel's website

At $25 a night I can't complain too much, this is a 3-star hotel and you get what you pay for. Breakfast is fair-average: eggs cooked to order, toast, butter, jam, cereal, small sausages and bacon that was always hard and chewy. Hot local food, fruit.

Wifi is free but didn't work in our room so we ended up going to the lounge, pool area or restaurant for wifi access. The pool was too cold to swim - I was surprised at how cold it was in Chiang Mai - mornings could be quite nippy with the wind, before warming up but not being as hot and humid as Phuket. This is winter in Chiang Mai, where nights reach a low of 13-15 C.

I'd chosen the hotel that wasn't right smack in the middle of the city as I didn't want to have lots of noise and music and banging at night. I wondered if I would regret it, not being to just step out to shops and things to keep Ash occupied.

It only cost 100 baht ($3) to take a taxi or tuk tuk to the city centre, but $3 there and back, every day did end up amounting to a bit.

Mum and Ashlea's awesome adventure - Singapore

2012-02-08T06:00:00.003+08:00

So Ash went off to Singapore on her own for 5 days before I joined her. We both flew Tiger Airways and man ... even with a 5-hour journey it was bloody uncomfortable. I swear even the aisles have gotten narrower. I was in the second last row, and there was some dude, fairly well-built, shaven head ... sitting behind me in the last row where the seats didn't recline. I felt really sorry for the people there, one girl even had her knees bent and leaning against the seat .... it was like cattle class.

Landed at Singapore's Budget Terminal just after 3 am, was in a taxi by 3.40 am. I slept for a couple of hours before heading out for breakfast with Wongy.

We have curry laksa for $2, and order some takeaway roti pratha for Ash $1.60.

The roti man starts with a small blob of dough

The Indian roti man is very happy to have his photo taken, and tells me his relative has a shop in Melbourne.

He starts to flip and keeps flipper the roti over and over again with his wrists

until it's thin and flat and spread out ...

Still wearing a big smile, he quickly folds it into a square (I wish I was always this happy!)

they are cooked on a hot griddle until crispy and served up with a bit of curry gravy

YUM! So simple but so yummy!

Wongy made sure we stopped for yau chau koi and tau foo far on the way back - and then my tummy was burstingly full...

Later, Ash and I headed out, catching trains and window-shopping. I was only in Singapore for the day, and we were on the plane to Chiang Mai at 9.30 pm that night.

Mum and Ashlea's awesome adventure - the beginning ...

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000+08:00

Ash and I have just come back from a mother-daughter bonding trip to Singapore, Chiang Mai and Bangkok. The trigger was Ash asking if she could go to Singapore and Tokyo with her friend. Eventually I found out that meant her travelling by herself, staying by herself, and meeting up with her friend ...

I did some research and asking around before saying no to Tokyo (too far, too expensive and radiation exposure from the nuclear leak). It was a possible yes to Singapore, but I wasn't happy about her staying by herself, regardless of how safe Singapore was meant to be and how close it was to her friends'.

She and Josh had travelled to Phuket by themselves 2 years ago, so I wasn't too concerned about the travelling alone part as Ash has a sensible head on her shoulders and would know what to do. I had distant relatives and friends in Singapore but didn't feel nice about burdening them with looking after a 14-year-old.

Finally, I did ask a volleyball physio friend who was in Perth but moved to Singapore if Ash could stay with him, and the next headache started - her catching a taxi from the airport to his place. I was comfortable with that, but not my mum, nor my dad ... nor a distant cousin-aunt who commutes between Singapore and Perth, nor her dad.

Anyway I managed to get a week off work to meet up with her in Singapore and travel to Thailand. Let the story begin ...

100 reasons why I love my husband - #8

2012-02-03T06:00:00.000+08:00

Looking back, a lot of my "100 reasons I love Rob" seem to be about food, or DIY. This post is a bit of cheat, as it's more about a favourite dish of mine. And yet, one steamy hot summer night after a swim in our pool, I was feeling a bit worn out. So I asked Rob if he would mind cooking dinner.

Ma po tofu a popular Chinese dish from the Sichuan (Szechuan) province. It is a combination of tofu (bean curd) set in a spicy chili- and bean-based sauce, typically a thin, oily, and bright red suspension, and often cooked with minced meat, usually pork or beef.

It's one of my favourite dishes and the beauty of it is - it's SO easy and fast to cook. I promise you, and here's my secret recipe ...

cook rice first, when it's finished cooking, you let it finish steaming while you prepare the tofu
heat wok
mix a handful of cornflour into minced pork (approx 200-300g of mince pork) and a drizzle of oil
heat about 1-2 tablespoons of oil in wok. When hot, add pork
Stir for a bit, then add about 1-2 teaspoons of minced garlic (use the prechopped, minced garlic in jars to increase the super-speediness of this recipe)
Stir and when pork has lost its pinkness, add approx 2 tablespoons of chilli bean sauce
Add about 1 cup of boiling water, then add tofu (sliced about 1cm thick)
Stir gently to warm tofu through. Add a bit of cornflour mixed with cold water to thicken.

Voila!

Rob followed my instructions and 10 minutes later, dinner was ready.

This is the kind of tofu I like to buy, it's very soft and yummy:

And I just use a jar of Lee Kum Kee's chilli bean sauce:

Spencer Village vs Taurus Hawker Foods

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000+08:00

After reading Karen Cheng's post on Spencer Village recently, I had a craving for laksa. Rob's favourite dish is laksa, so it wasn't hard to convince him to go.

We went there last night and it was shut! Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Boo ...

So we went to Taurus on Collins Road, Willetton. I rememeber when we first started going to Taurus years ago. It was cheap, the food was pretty good and it became a firm favourite. I think dishes used to be about $7.50?

These days ... woah! Prices are well over $9 - $9.50! A glass of cendol costs $4.30!!!

I had the wonton noodles, and after a few mouthfuls, I could taste the sweet distinct taste of lots of MSG in the sauce. When I mentioned it, Rob gave me a taste of his laksa - it was quite awful. It was tasteless and quite watery, not their useful rich broth.

Then, they charged us 50cents for a takeaway container - tai lang pang her ... (Hokkien for: murder someone and then set fire to their body)

I wonder if they've changed ownership again? Whatever. I think that may be our last trip to Taurus. Over-rated, expensive and food isn't good anymore.

New bamboo floors, carpets and painting (part 3)

2012-01-30T06:00:00.014+08:00

I've come back from holiday and the house is done! Rob was super-charged, took a week off, painted, moved furniture, ripped carpets out ...

After much deliberation, we finally have our feature wall - caramel craving from Dulux. I thought it would be a browny, but it was a bit more greeny and looks a bit like baby poo ...

I love our bamboo flooring, and with the jarrah rail removed, has opened up the lounge, dining and kitchen even more.

Sick rat

2012-01-27T06:00:00.005+08:00

Not long after getting our ratties, we noticed that one of them consistently made a grating, burbling noise. At first we thought it was just "bruxing":-

brux verb The sound of a happy rat: a steady tooth-grinding, soothing to rat and human alike.
boggle verb Alarming visual effect produced by happy rats: the eyeballs go rapidly in and out.

Googling by both Ash and myself and a video of rat sounds led us to the conclusion that it wasn't bruxing - great, not a happy rat, but a sick one.

So it seemed like Noodles might have mycoplasma, an organism responsible for mycoplasmosis, a respiratory disease carried by almost all rats.

For someone who loves animals and who always wanted to be a vet, I was torn between not doing anything, and taking her to the vet. Ash and Rob were for taking her to the vet, but I wasn't as keen ... paying money to take a rat to the vet! I would never ever hear the last of it from my parents.

I did more googling. And learnt the names of some of the medications you could give - baytril, doxycycline, prednisolone. I had some leftover prednisolone from an IVF cycle and thought, why not.

It was easy enough to crush up a tablet, and mix in a little bit with some weetbix and milk. It was only after a few days when Noodles decidedly slowed down, that I started to panic. She hardly moved, and her eyes were mostly closed, and she looked like a real sick rat ... I didn't think she would make it through the night.

I was at work the next day and Rob was home, and he emailed saying that Noodles was hyper, climbing up and everywhere in the cage, biting stuff. Uh-oh, she'd become a super-steroid rat! The vet appointment was already made, and $40 and some amoxyclav antibiotics later, I was redeemed.

However, a few days later she slowed right down again and this time, had a blood nose - which I guessed was porphyrin, a sign of stress and illness. It really looked like she was on her last legs, and she was wheezing a lot and gasping for breath - poor thing!

We took her to the vet again, and this time he gave her an injection, and we got more medications - he was pretty good and only charged $25.

"This is the last time," I told Rob firmly after that. We've really spent enough and done all we could.

New bamboo floors, carpets and painting (part 2)

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001+08:00

There's lots and lots of prep work to be done before the bamboo and carpets are laid. Rob writes out a "major plan" with dates, stuff to move, painting to be done.

Bamboo is done first, and we remove the flooring as well as a bannister rail between the dining and lounge.

The bamboo looks good - but I am a bit surprised at the colour variation, the light colour seems to be the "natural", and we'd asked for the darker "coffee" colour.

So we've gone from carpet

to a timber laminate

to bamboo

Next, we prep upstairs with painting

I rope the kids in to help. Josh in his usual uncomplaining way, gets on with the job but Ash ...

loses her muscles, bones and other body-coordination needed to paint. (Not long after this picture was taken, she throws herself on our bed with her headphones on, having decided she'd done enough ... which leads to a screaming match between us not long after).

Northbridge Piazza outdoor movies

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000+08:00

Last Friday Rob and I decided to head over to Northbridge after work. There's always a good selection of food in Northbridge to choose from, and it was a tempting choice of pizza, chilli mussels, kebabs or Asian.

We decided to try Penang Food Restaurant, which is on William Street near the railway line. It was decidedly cheap and cheerful, the aircon was losing its battle with the heat as we sat down. I decided to give the prawn "hay mi" noodle soup a try - my 3 markers of a good restaurant are: hay mi, hor fun and fried kuay teow.

So even though I eventually sweated through my remaining meal, it was good - quite authentic and definitely hit the spot. Rob had the hor fun and a quick spoonful from his plate seemed tasty enough, although I will have to go back one day and devour a whole plate before I pass final judgment.

With my tummy bursting, we wandered down to the Northbridge Piazza, which is an open-air grassed area with a huge LED screen. The movie didn't start till 8.30 pm and we grabbed a spot. It wasn't long before they brought out beanbags which were a perfect touch.

It was a perfect warm evening, some people brought pizza, kids jumped up and down on the beanbags and we had a really nice time. Oh except for the smokers. That was annoying and we tried moving away, that was the downside to a perfect evening out.

New bamboo floors, carpets and painting (part 1)

2012-01-16T06:00:00.003+08:00

It's been almost a year since we replaced some of our carpet with timber laminate flooring.

We started out small - the hallway at first, then with my study and the dining room, the immediate effect was a much lighter and cooler feel.

But it was never really properly finished - where the boards met the wall, we need to put up skirting, and where the dining room stepped down into the tv room one side and the lounge on the another, the jarrah "step" was removed and needed to be replaced with something that matched.

It never got done.

And so it got under my skin. I started looking into replacing our flooring with proper wood/timber flooring, bamboo to be exact. Compressed bamboo flooring is a popular option these days due to its hardness and eco-sustainability. We started out by going to a local carpet shop near us, who then came out to measure and quote for us.

Bamboo worked out to be just under $100 sqm, so approx $2200 for 25 sqm (dining room, hallway and study), fully installed. I was quite happy and prepared to pay for that. We also looked at replaced all our carpets, and that quote was around $4000 for upstairs and downstairs. Rob was quite happy to pay for that.

Bamboo sample (left), spotted gum (3-strip) on the right

Carpet samples

Of course, the long story is I insisted on going to a few more shops to check out and compare prices, and in the process, learnt about different underlay (rubber vs foam), laying techniques (floating vs glue stick) and solution-dye carpets. Minor headache.

The short story is our first stop was still the cheapest and we decided to stick with them.

Final freedom papers

2012-01-13T06:00:00.002+08:00

New ratties

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000+08:00

How many chances would you give? My mantra is - never again. Never again will I fly long-haul with a budget airline. Never again will I give Josh unlimited time on the computer. Never again will I allow Ash to get rats ...

Some things are meant to be broken. 2 years after saying good bye to our second batch of rats, I have relented. 2 years is a long time, and long enough, I hope, for my 14-year-old daughter to mature.

We shop around for a cage, and too impatient to wait, she spends $30 on a ginormous cage that would fit a few monstrous rats. We then pick up 2 free rat cages on Freecycle.

Next stop - rats. We travel 30 minutes for 2 female baby rats at $10 each from Gumtree. Aptly named Cheese and Nibbles, they were originally bred for snake food (no kidding, we saw the snake in the aquarium there) and so, we saved them! And renamed them Donut and Noodles :)

I pose for a glamour shot with Noodles

Rob says hello

While Ashlea introduces them to her hair

And yes, I made her draw up and sign another Ratty Agreement.

My daughter the engineer

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000+08:00

Genes!

Surely it's genes ... my daughter and my son - so different.

I bought my daughter a cube bookshelf recently. The nice man from the store put it into the boot and I drove away happily, having paid $70 which was pretty good.

"Take it down from the car," I told Ash when I got home.

After a few minutes, she huffed her way into the lounge.

"Errr mum ... did you have a look at the picture on the box?"

Oopsy.

Ash soon had it out of the box and busied herself putting it together. Without a word from me, and without anyone else having to lift a finger to help her, she assembled it together.

My daughter, the engineer. She is pretty amazing.

IVF: when to quit

2012-01-02T06:00:00.002+08:00

Sometime during our 9th IVF cycle, I started thinking about how much longer we could go on. It has been a funny sort of role-reversal, as I started out super-keen on IVF and to keep going for as long as possible .... whereas Rob was reluctant to try IVF, and now, he tells me to take one cycle at a time.

After 4 years of trying to conceive, 4 IUIs, 3 different fertility clinics, 9 IVF transfers and over $20 000 later ... (so many numbers!), I am now approaching 42 and it's time to ask when.

I always wanted to give this trying to conceive thing a real good go. From trying naturally, to doing IUI and then moving on to the more invasive IVF, I was prepared to do whatever it took to get pregnant. In my mind, there wasn't any point in trying half-heartedly if you aren't prepared to go all the way.

Finally, after repeated failures, and from the emotional first negative IVF result (I was so sure that it would work), I have reached a state of being ... almost blase about each result.

I am no longer tired of the negative results. Rather, I am tired of going through the same motions, and getting the same results.

In my mind, we have given it a real good go. Every woman will reach this place at different times. For me, I can see the end of the road. We have 3 frozen embryos, so that will give us a few transfers, then in the new year, 1 more, perhaps 2 more IVF cycles.

Looking back at 2011

2011-12-30T06:00:00.041+08:00

Another year! A whole 12 months! Incredible.

We ushered in the Year of the Rabbit with Chinese New Year celebrations, family, friends, food and liondance. My daughter organises a surprise "Survivor" pool-party for my 41st birthday, I am so impressed ...

I get an iPhone3 from a friend, and find myself competing and semi-addicted to Words with Friends.

I started the year with spring-cleaning and throwing away my old dusty trophies, and even though we put in floating laminate floors, this is soon on its way out as we replace with bamboo flooring and new carpets.

Josh learns to drive at the beginning of the year, and passes the practical exam on his 2nd go. The stresses of school and attendance remain, but somehow diminish as I accept the inevitable, and get my wish of Josh completing Year 12.

The differences between my son and daughter seems to widen every year. School results yes, but also lots and lots of little things. Ashlea's hair and mine changes throughout the year. I took Ash to get her hair coloured as a hair model, she then chopped it off herself at the end of the year (again, following in my footsteps), and also, asked if she could get her belly button pierced. She also took up piano lessons again, I am happy that both of them are still tinkering away.

Her school results are progressing very nicely, I couldn't ask for more. Her Year 9 NAPLAN results are excellent, and she scores 6As and 2Bs which makes me $300 poorer, and I somehow agree to getting her rats for the 3rd time.

On the Health and Fitness front, Rob and I started off another health kick - boot camp - and it was TOUGH. Ash and I both played volleyball for Uni this year, myself in Div 1 and Ash promoted from Div 4 to Div 3.

We make a trip to the UK to visit Rob's family in April where I got to see the home of James Herriot and watched the fantastic musical Jersey Boys in London; followed by camping in Kalbarri with family in the middle of the year and a long weekend in Broome.

A new IVF clinic and specialist is on the cards this year, we change from Concept to Hollywood Fertility Clinic to try our luck. One of the reasons was an increase in fees, but we have a really good first impression at Hollywood which continues throughout our treatment, and is in stark contrast to my last cycle with Concept.

I start acupuncture with Dr.Soh in West Leederville in July, and each time, I find it easier to fall into a deep, almost hypnotic kind of sleep. Dr.Soh and his wife are incredibly kind as they even come in specially on the weekends when I have a transfer.

Changes galore this year: in the middle of the year I apply for and get a temporary transfer to another position with a different department. At a few levels down, I take a pay cut and find myself doing more work! It is a good change, good for my soul and I find myself becoming a normal person again.

As I type this, and read what I've written, I am amazed at how much has actually happened in a year. I am amazed at myself. I have much to be thankful and grateful and to be happy for. The winds of change are coming, I can feel it.

Have an amazing new year. Be inspired.

The significance of the number of antral follicles prior to stimulation ...

2011-12-26T06:00:00.001+08:00

Amid my fanatical googling, I come across this article:

The significance of the number of antral follicles prior to stimulation in predicting ovarian responses in an IVF programme

I'm not sure if it gives hope or despair.

Renewing piano lessons

2011-12-23T06:00:00.001+08:00

Sometimes life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get.
Sometimes life is like a yoyo - up and down.
Sometimes life is like a boomerang - the same things keep happening.

Both my kids started piano when they were around 7. 3 piano teachers later, they both stopped. Josh at 13, Ash at 10

Josh bounced back into a few lessons when he was 16, partly due to Music Stage 2 requirements at school - he had to achieve a certain respectable grade, so back he went to Marlene, the last piano teacher.

Cajoling, threatening, hormones, rebellion culminated in him missing his Grade 4 piano exam deliberately, and me having to pay extra to reschedule. He ended up with a good score although he unexpectedly "choked" while playing Canon, something which gave me the shivers as I huddled outside the window to listen…

This year, he continues with Music at school, but only at Stage 1 level. He has a good ear for music, learns by himself using Youtube and plays quite beautifully.

This year, Ash surprised me by asking if she could take piano lessons again. It was at the beginning of June, and she determinedly slogged out "Wind beneath my wings" not long after. Having completed her Grade 3 in 2007 …..? It was an impressive effort as it had been 3 years since she tinkered, and she lacks Josh's more natural musical abilities.

This time, we agreed that she would just learn for fun.

Having got up to Grade 5 (practical) and Grade 6 (theory) when I was 14, I am very pleased with both of them. Even though they no longer take formal exams, and without having to drill themselves with scales, chords, arpeggious, and theory, they're both still enjoying it. They have surpassed me and I'm happy.

Fatigue and Maca

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000+08:00

Halfway through our last cycle, I started feeling very very tired. Actually I was really fatigued. I would wake up in the mornings feeling like I hadn't slept at all.

During the day at work, my head felt like it was filled with cotton-wool. I didn't have the energy to do anything, and this went on for over a week.

I started googling, and came across adrenal fatigue. It seemed to fit what I was experiencing, and I felt like I really had to do something to snap out of it.

As part of my constant "trying-to-get-pregnant" goal, I decided to try Maca and CoQ10. On Saturday, I took 4 Maca tablets and a CoQ10 before we went away camping. That night in the tent, I had trouble sleeping anyway as it was uncomfortable and I had to shift from side to side to try and relieve the ache in my hips.

The next day, I felt surprisingly ok given the fact that I didn't get much sleep. When we got home, I tool another Maca tablet and that night, had a real problem trying to get to sleep. But I felt much better, energised and no longer fatigued.

It was quite amazing ... and I am forever a sceptic. Google tells me that insomnia is a side-effect of Maca, and that one should start off with a small dose ... not take 4 like I did!

I haven't had to take any more Maca tablets since then and my energy levels are back to normal. Whether it was just a once-off, a coincidence, or maybe some scientific validity to its Peruvian claims of enhancing stamina, energy levels and libido, there are lots of information on Maca on the internet for you to read and decide for yourself.

9th IVF cycle - salty cravings during 2WW (part 6)

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000+08:00

Transfer is done on Saturday at 12.30 pm and I faithfully go to acupuncture at 8.45 am. On Monday, I pop into the clinic for a follow-up blood test. E2 is 4847 and progesterone 1294.

I almost always walk around on tippy-toes the first few days after transfer. I'm extra careful when I don't really need to be.

My boobs are a little bit sore during the first week but the weirdest thing is - I crave salt. First, I craved salt and vinegar chips. Then, I craved vegemite. That wasn't enough. So I had a cup of hot bovril, and vegemite on toast.

No, not a pregnancy symptom but reading the internet tells me that it's simply a symptom of progesterone.

Blood test is scheduled for Thursday, 12 days after transfer. I've felt bloated and fat for a while and by the end of the first week after transfer, my boobs have lost the soreness.

By Monday, 8 days after transfer, my headache starts. Small niggling pricks start off during the day, then by the night, it crescendoes and I hold my head in my hands while watching my daughter at social volleyball. I know it's the beginning of the end.

My headache continues for 48 hours, and on Wednesday, the tiniest, faintest smidgen of spotting appears. I'm prepared. I speak to the nurse coordinator on Thursday during my blood test, then make a call to Dr.P to discuss the next step - frozen embryo transfer.

The call from Hollywood with the results is from the same nurse, and we discuss the next cycle before she confirms that the results are negative.

4 years, 9 transfers, and $20 000 on, I'm still not pregnant.

Practical Driving Assessment

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000+08:00

Josh has been fairly confident with his driving, and it seems quite a while ago since we stepped into the car and lurched around the neighbourhood.

His practical driving exam was booked at Welshpool, and I also paid for his instructor to take him around for a few hours on the route beforehand. Welshpool examiners have a reputation ... for being tough and mean. One of these rumours which you hear from people who've been there, or heard from someone who knew someone ...

He flunked. I was really hoping he would pass, but all it meant was paying another $70 to reschedule. My uncle had also flunked, he ended up going to Rockingham because Rockingham examiners have a reputation for being nice and friendly. And he passed.

I was bombarded by my parents to take Josh to Rockingham. But it wasn't as easy as that. Josh was used to driving the instructor's car, and I wasn't sure that the Daihatsu Charade would pass the requirements of a "roadworthy vehicle". There was nothing wrong with it except it was quite old ...

Finally I caved in and booked him into Rockingham. Then I ran around to try and borrow another car. That's another long story of "Parent who does everything for ungrateful son"

Long story short, Josh used the Charade, my dad took him down to Rockingham, and the nice, friendly, smiling, unstressed examiners there passed him.

I was at work when my dad called me to give me the news, and the feeling of immense relief was enormous. It's been a long long time since anything good happened with Josh.

Camping and our 3rd wedding anniversary

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000+08:00

Rob and I have only been married for 3 years, but already, we have all sorts of little customs and traditions. Like, our first wedding anniversary, we didn't do anything and I was really slack and Rob was disappointed.

I think we went out for a meal for our second anniversary. Very routine stuff.

This year, as the date loomed, (and I shamefully admit, it didn't really cross my mind and when it did, I was a little mixed up with the 22nd and 28th of November - dates of my second and first wedding respectively).

We said - well, since we didn't do anything last year, we better do something this year.

We do the same thing for Christmas - presents one year, none the next.

This year, we went camping at Nanga Mill, Dwellingup. It was busier than I expected ... but we got a good spot, not too near anyone.

Away, far far away from the madding crowds ...

We have a great little 2-man tent, which is very easy to put up. A 5-minute job usually. However, we soon discovered something was amiss. My dad had borrowed our tent on his last motorbike ride down to Albany, and it seems ... he had tinkered with it.

Our tent poles look something like this, they are sections of tube which insert into connectors and then straighten out into long flexible poles.

When we shook them out of the bag, we noticed that each end of the tube was labelled. "A", another piece was labelled "A", another one "B" and so forth.

As Rob slowly tried to put the tent together, he found that a few of the pre-bent middle bits were glued to the tube. Something was wrong.

The middle of the pole didn't sit over the middle of our tent. My dad had fiddled. Aaarrgghhhh!! I couldn't believe it. Why would he do that? This was such an easy tent to put up, even I could do it.

We were also missing the front piece that would hold the awning up, so .... it was a real hack job.

I forgot to bring my sunnies as we went out for a bit of a walk, and walking back, nearly ran into a group of kangaroos. Being shortsighted, I was literally on top of them before I realised what they were.

One of them has a joey in her pocket and I'm in raptures!

For some reason, we weren't very organised, as we dithered about deciding whether to bring food; we would need an esky then, were fires allowed ... in the end we only packed some snacks, deciding to set up camp and have a nice meal in Dwellingup town.

Little did we know that it took us about 20 minutes from the park entrance with the gate where the ranger takes your money, and on a windy gravel road.

So ... we didn't really want to make that trip in the dark.

Our wedding anniversary dinner consisted of a few pieces of cold chicken, celery sticks, chips and biscuits.

9th IVF cycle - embryo transfer and I slowly deflate (part 5)

2011-12-12T06:00:00.005+08:00

Day 5
We've made it to a day 5 blastocyst transfer. It's a busy morning as I go to acupuncture at 8.30am. Then a quick stop at Officeworks to check out a bookcase for Ash, then grocery shopping, and as I get home at 12.15, ready to head off for a 1.00 pm transfer, I re-read my instructions and realize .... we're supposed to be there 30 minutes before transfer time!

In and out of the shower, jump into the car and Rob speeds us to Hollywood Hospital.

I've been floating about 2 feet off the ground since egg collection and a pretty good fertilisation rate 5/9. Day 3 results are also good, all 5 are doing nicely. But on embryo transfer day, the embryologist tells us that we have a grade 2 early blastocyst to transfer, 2 others also at early blastocyst with another at morula.

An expanded or hatching blastocyst, grade 1, would have been good, and I slowly deflate.

This is our 2nd transfer at Hollywood and this time, we get an ultrasound-guided transfer. Rob is fascinated at the image of my uterus, the catheter, and finally, the embryo appearing on the screen.

Me, it's a long awkward moment with Dr.P's head between my legs and I will him to stand up quickly.

Rob and I are old hands at this now, it's our 9th embryo transfer and I joke as we leave the clinic - "I'm pregnant!". Rob responds playfully - "I'm a dad!"

But later that night, as I inject Pregnyl for luteal support, it hurts; a the injection site swells and there's also a bit of bleeding.

Please let this be the last time I have to do this. I think I am approaching the end of the road ... much as I hate to admit it. My blastocysts aren't great quality, I have been steadily putting on weight the last few years, and we have spent a shitload of money on trying to have a baby.

I've done less googling this time around, but still, this snippet of information lingers:

Some clinics have done retrospective studies of embryo progression- a functional test. The embryo progression of sibling embryos was compared from patients who got pregnant to patients who did not get pregnant after day 3 transfer. Did these sibling embryos stall out or progress to blastocyst stage? Generally speaking, patients whose excess embryos went to blastocyst stage were more likely to get pregnant than those patients whose remaining embryos did not progress to blastocyst stage. So progression is a good functional test of viability and selection of embryos at day 5 of culture is a good tool to identify the embryos that can make it at least that far.

The next day, I wait for the call from the embryologist on the remaining embryos. It's a nice surprise to hear that they've frozen all 3 - 2 are expanded blastocyst and the other is an early blastocyst, all grade 2. Our best frozen results, ever.

Hope springs up again.

Wishing I was a Tiger Mother

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000+08:00

Some parents are competitive and pushy when it comes to their kids. We often hear the ugly side of parents watching their kids play sports, and fairly recently, the hype and debate surrounding "tiger mothers".

Like the song that croons "15 … caught in between 10 and 20 …", I'm caught between my Asian/Malaysian-Chinese upbringing that always had a Western influence. I clearly remembered the day I showed my father my spelling test where I scored 48/50. He looked at me and said "Why didn't you get 50?"

There was no denying that the repeated reminders of "If you don't study hard, you'll end up as rubber-tapper" played a large part in my knuckling down when it came to studies. My Form 2 secondary school (14-year-old) results were used as a basis for my parents applying for me to study highschool as an overseas sudent in Perth. But, I definitely studied and played hard - there were long sessions of athletics training and volleyball games after school. Enthusiasm, friendship and youth were easy motivators back then.

Am I a Tiger Mother? Definitely not. Would I have wanted to be one? Undoubtedly yes.

My youth, immaturity and character as I became a mother at 24 versus circumstances and issues which I never foresaw has led me to the place that I am today.

My kids are the way they are - partly due to genes, and part due to environment I guess.

I always wish more for them. To be that little bit more competitive than I was. To achieve that little bit more at school, piano, sport. To try things, to give things a go.

At the end of the day, I can only hope not to repeat the same mistakes that my parents made. Tough love ain't easy.

Handmade cards

2011-12-07T06:00:00.005+08:00

There's nothing more special than receiving a handmade card. But, if like me, your handmade attempts look like a 6-year-old's, then it's definitely worthy buying a hand-made card.

A close friend of mine makes beautiful cards, and has turned this passion into an online shop, called Nuts on Shells.

With Christmas soon approaching, pick up some nice cards now, there's a special Christmas offer of 10% discount, use the code xmas2011 during checkout.

Check out her store for more choices - Nuts on Shells, based in Scarborough, Perth. You can also ask about personalised cards with special themes.
P.S. I like the "owl you need is love"" ones - too cute!

9th IVF cycle - egg collection (part 4)

2011-12-05T06:00:00.002+08:00

It's an early 6.45am admission on a Saturday. Things are pretty quiet in the day surgery of Hollywood Hospital, efficiently processed as usual. At 7.45am I'm wheeled into theatre.

It's a different anaethetist from last time and he starts working on me almost immediately. I think the anaesthetic is started earlier but slower. I can feel things get just a little bit hazy and I quickly ask Dr P about removing a leftover stitch from my belly button from the laparoscopy a year ago. Everyone peers at my navel, and I start to slowly drift off ...

It's annoying not being told that you're about to conk out, and waking up is difficult and disorientating. I drift in and out, oxygen mask over my nose and mouth as I try and decide if I'm awake or dreaming. Somewhere, I comprehend "9 eggs" and manage to nod sleepily. Better than I hoped.

I seem to have trouble coming out of my sleepy-state the whole day, and pop 2 panadols early on to counter the tummy ache. My tummy feels tight the next day as well, and I moodily swing between a mocha, tea and green tea.

Day 1
The call from the embryologist comes spot on 8.30 am, she has a bit of an accent which makes me strain to hear, but it's good news for now: 5 out of 9 eggs have fertilised!

She rattles on about 2 "reacting" badly to the sperm, and another 2 haven't "reacted" which they will keep an eye on.

I always hope for the best, and a good outcome would have been 6-7 eggs fertilising. 5 is still pretty good, but I know by now that the numbers will fall off in the next few days.

It's a rather frustrating wait for every day to see where the embryos are up to, and I hope fervently for a good result.

Day 3
I've been so used to numbers dropping and embryos degrading, that I almost fall off my chair when I hear how our embryos are going on day 3 - all 5 have divided and are "looking good". 1@7-cell and 4@8-cells.

Happiness is a day 3 8-cell embryo.

Ashlea's Year 9 Naplan results

2011-12-02T06:00:00.012+08:00

The NAPLAN assessments are held every 2 years, and started back in 2008. In 2009, Ashlea did the Year 7 NAPLAN and scored well.

Once again, her 2011 Naplan results are really good. She's above the average for everything - reading, writing, language ... and off the roof for Maths!

The long tough road to the end of Year 12

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000+08:00

Without a doubt, the last 3-4 years have been the most difficult times of my life. Tougher than a divorce.

My struggles with Josh and school seemed to reach low point after low point. My expectation dropped as his school attendance dropped.

His introverted personality made him afraid of trying new things. Or was it his fear that made him introverted?

We finally reach the last year of high school this year.

Rob helps Josh with trying out some clothes for his Year 12 school ball

Josh scrubs up real smart with a new suit, he towers over his grandfather

Josh mucks around before the school graduation ... those pants.... they have a story ...

I am relieved that he attended graduation, but still confused ...

The end was not a pretty sight, and I'm still waiting for that piece of paper which tells me that he graduated.

9th IVF cycle - Fresh start (part 3)

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000+08:00

On the day that I'm told that our embryo didn't survive the thaw, I sit resolutely in the waiting room at Hollywood, waiting to speak to Dr.P and a nurse. I want to start a fresh cycle straightaway, damnit!

Luckily my persistence pays off although I break down in tears while talking to Dr.P, who is terribly sympathetic. I start Synarel on Day 21, and we're on our way to a fresh cycle.

Day 2, blood test and routine scan shows 6-8 antral follicles in each ovary.

I start Puregon 175iu, a small increase in dose from the last cycle.

Day 7 - E2 1033. Prolactin results are on the high side - 598 (normal range being 60 - 500).

Day 9 - E2 3800. Another test for prolactin after lying down for 20 minutes, this time it's 419.

Day 11 - E2 2080

It's all systems go - trigger on Saturday with ovidrel and egg collection scheduled for Monday.

Cancel your White/Yellow pages delivery

2011-11-25T06:00:00.008+08:00

Did you know you can cancel delivery of the White Pages/Yellow pages directories that are delivered to your home?

I find these really bulky, they collect dust and take up space. Besides, we use the internet for practically everything these days. (Hence why it's important to provide good service and get good reviews!)

They have been some comments and jokes about this year's compact version, complete with a new, tiny, miniscule font

magnifiying aid! See faqs http://www.whitepagescommunity.com.au/content/compact-white-pages-book-faqs

Since 2005, residents from around Australia can choose whether they want to receive copy of the print directory or not. The phone number to ring to 'opt out' is 1800 008 292, otherwise you can jump on www.directoryselect.com.au.

I went to cancel online, this only took a couple of minutes.

9th IVF cycle - FET cancellation (part 2)

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000+08:00

After my trigger shot of 5000iu pregnyl on Monday, I also have another jab of 1500iu on Thursday. I was told that I would need 4x1500 of pregnyl, and that's what I told the chemist when I handed him the script.

Somehow, I ended up with 4 boxes of Pregnyl, each box containing 3 ampoules. That's 12!

I've cancelled my plans for the weekend and the next 2 weeks, no volleyball games as I prepare to go in for a frozen embryo transfer on Saturday.

However. Again, the plan hits a snag. A major one. Our embryo doesn't survive the thaw. I get the phone call around 9am, 2 hours before the I'm due to arrive at Hollywood Clinic for the transfer.

I thump up the stairs to tell Rob, and then I say, "oh well". And yet, as my day progresses, and I do play volleyball the next day, I am more crushed and defeated than I realize.

Sitting at the clinic as I wait to talk to a nurse, my heart sinks as I hear someone say "Hi, I'm here for the 11.15 transfer." - that was supposed to be my time, damnit!

My emotions unravel as I speak to Dr.P about starting another cycle, and at various times over the next few days - walking back alone from the shops, staring out at passing traffic, losing at volleyball and putting up with other people's pettiness and childishness.

2011 volleyball season

2011-11-18T06:00:00.008+08:00

It's been a disappointing end to the 2011 volleyball season. I had serving problems early on in the season, where my serve would falter and not even get over the net. Spinning crazily, it would head towards the antenna, and I would lower my head in embarrassment.

I was reduced to serving underarm. But then, after weeks of this, I said No. There has to be something that I can do to fix this. So I wrote down 3 things to focus on:

1. Toss in front of right shoulder
2. Keep elbow high
3. Fast serving action and follow-through

And it worked. Phew! No.1 rule is the most important start, but then to get speed and power, you need a fast hand-arm action. That made all the difference.

My hitting also seemed to falter this year. Whether it was age, stamina, technique, mental problems - I found myself wearing the libero shirt more often than not.

Our first bite at making it straight to the finals were thwarted by Balcatta, traditional arch-rivals.

We then had to play the semi-finals but lost to Northern Stars. A crushing 25-7 win in the first set saw us charged with confidence but the younger team stepped up and won in 5 sets.

Going from winning the grand-finals in 2009 then sitting out last season, this year was disappointing not only because of the loss.

Me, el libero, in the middle

It was disappointing in terms of team-spirit. This years Divisions 1 womens team was a mixture of previous Div 1 players, Div 2 players who came up, and several overseas students who gave us a tremendous height advantage which we always lack.

There isn't too much else to say.

Halloween again

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000+08:00

Ashlea has been doing Halloween parties for the last few years. It ranges from a full-blown Halloween-theme party to just trick-or-treating.

This year, it coincided with the day we returned from Broome. I knew about it, but was still slightly thrown off-guard by the screaming teenagers, both boys and girls who filled our house.

Ash with a scary-looking ... empty juice bottle.

That's more like it.

9th IVF cycle - on the way to a FET (part 1)

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000+08:00

After our last IVF, it took a while for my body to recover and for my cycle to return to normal - 42 days before I actually got a period! It was a real up-and-down month; experienced enough to know that a delayed period after IVF was common, and still not cynical enough to completely dismiss my acupuncturist's insistence to have a blood test for a possible pregnancy.

And having the blood test jolted my period into arriving.

So, we start a cycle for a frozen embryo transfer, natural, with no meds.

CD2 - E2 130, FSH 8, LH 5, P < 1

CD9 - E2 270, LH 5, P < 1

CD12 - E2 825, LH 6, P < 1
Scan also shows a follicle in the right ovary @ 15mm, and my lining is 9mm.

Things are looking good and everything is on track.

CD 15 - E2 1125, LH 87, P 4
The nurse tells me it looks like I started surging yesterday, so I get to stab myself with 5000 iu of Pregnyl tonight. It feels like a long time since I've had to jab ... around 2 months.

Doing a frozen transfer is as easy as as, compared to an IVF cycle - no jabs, no meds, no side-effects, no anaesthetic, no egg retrieval.

I hardly think about it. But. I do think about - that there is even less that I can do with this cycle. There isn't anything I can do to make sure I have good eggs. There is nothing I can do to prepare my body, the scan shows that my lining is good, and so ... all I can do is wait for the thaw, and the transfer of an embryo that started its beginning months before today.

Eco Beach Resort Broome - summed up

2011-11-11T06:00:00.029+08:00

Eco Beach Resort is in a lovely spot - gorgeous beach set against stunning red cliffs. The isolation and the weather (a tad hot at that time during the day), perfect nights.

It's hot by 6 am, no sleeping in with noisy zippers on nearby tents going "Zzzzzztttt!" furiously up and down, clumping feet, running feet.

The tent is roomy and the kingsize bed is very comfy. Both the tap on the sink and shower were "wired" the wrong way.

We got various local visitors - frogs, lizards, beetles, ants. I'd read a review that complained of mosquitoes and packed mosquito coils but they weren't a problem at all, only flies that came later, perhaps due to the bushfire.

There are more young kids than I expected for such an isolated resort and it's expensive too. I count at least a dozen kids under 12, and always hogging the pool.

Food is very good, attention to detail, good service, great coffee. Be prepared to pay for 4-5 star food prices.

For 3 meals a day, for example, you're looking at:

Continental breakfast/Cooked breakfast $21.50 / $27.50

Lunch $20

Dinner $29 - $45

Total cost $70 - $95 each

Throw in a couple of drinks, coffees and your food bill easily goes over $100++ each. Per day.

There are 2 BBQ areas - one near the villas which only has a BBQ , other other nearer to the garden tents. This one not only has a BBQ but also has a microwave, kettle, toaster, small fridge.

Tip: Bring your own cutlery and some paper plates, or, hire a BBQ set for $10 deposit. Bring vacuum-packed sandwiches and pop them in the esky, cold meat or tinned food.

By our 3rd night, things had quietened down considerably as the families disappear and on our last day, everything is peaceful.

Would we go back again? No.

It's pretty pricey and for a 2-hour flight + 90minute bus ride, not really worth it. We paid $200 per night for our eco tent with ocean views. Ocean front villas are $500+ per night during the low season, and over $700 per night during the high season.

Don't forget you then pay a bit more for meals as well.

Location is stunning, but all in all ... budget and distance wise, no.

Eco Beach Resort Broome - Day 3

2011-11-09T06:00:00.027+08:00

Rob and I start the day off with complimentary yoga in the morning at 7 am. I'm a virgin-yoga-ist and I find some of the stances difficult, my ankles hurt but I manage to contort myself into some of the positions.

It's a baking hot morning and after a coffee, some rolls and salami (yes we sneaked them from dinner the night before!), we stroll down to the beach. The resort is right on the beach, and there's beach huts for shade. Kayaks and paddle boards are available for hire at $20 per hour. We'd brought our masks and snorkels but that was a waste as there isn't any good snorkelling spots due to king tides?? I'm sure it was on their list of activities ...

The water is simply beautiful, even though, as usual, I have to slowly walk in. Once in, I swim out over and over again, revelling in the calmness and serenity of floating in the ocean.

There's a bush fire not too far off, luckily the breeze blows most of it away from us. It's a day of cold showers and languishing in the tent.

I get to hold a rock ...

Rob clambers up and over

I struggle with my footing

I'm sprawled over the rock, before hugging more rocks

Check out the look on my face!

It's a beautiful desolate beach

I love the patterns and colours on the sand

Asking Rob to move ...

Romantic sunset picture

Can't resist the shadows and colours

Sunset

Going ...

Gone!

Eco Beach Resort Broome - Day 2

2011-11-07T06:00:00.034+08:00

6 am and the heat inside the tent was already uncomfortable. I leap out to switch on the fan but there was no going back to sleep as people clumped past on the wooden walkway next to the tent and boisterous kids thundered down.

Cold showers are the order of the day although the seabreeze starts around mid-morning.

After the big meal last night, we opt for just coffees. These are complimentary if you hand in your "starfish", which means you don't need your tent cleaned.

This is part of their eco-ethos : no tvs in rooms, minimal power available, recycled toilet paper. The resort is powered by their own solar panels, they grow their own vegies….

Food is definitely on the pricey side. No toasted sandwiches or cheap burgers. A cooked breakfast costs $27.50 and continental breakfast $21.50.

Rob and I shared a roast pumpkin, capsicum and cous-cous salad for lunch, $19. It was delicious.

Other options included lamb burger $22 and other things which were over $20.

In the evening, check out the tides and times before walking to the caves. Kings tides here dictate what time you should go. We decided to start off the 3 km walk at 4.15 pm and started with a brisk walk so that we would know how long/slow/fast we’d need to walk back- 30 minutes.

The beach is absolutely gorgeous. This is one of the best things about Eco Beach - it's isolated, and there's no one for miles. No touts. No crowds.

Just lots of lovely beaches, gorgeous colours and amazing scenes like:

Spot the baby starfish ...

Holding on ...

Green moss

Orange red rock

Pink rocks

Sunset day 2

Eco Beach Resort Broome - Day 1

2011-11-04T06:00:00.024+08:00

We've just come back from 4 days/3 nights in Broome. Here are my musings from the last wandering ... enjoy!

Last Friday was a public holiday here in Perth so we had plenty of time to pack and organise ourselves, the kids and the cats!

I'd checked in online the day before, online checkin opens 24 hours before the flight and is such a boon. We were on a Virgin Airlines flight - thank heavens as this had been a week of Qantas strikes and planes being grounded.

The last time we flew Virgin was to New Zealand December 2007 and Kimberleys in 2008, so it's been a while. We've been on budget AirAsia since, and we were pleasantly surprised to find sandwich, snacks and drink included on the Virgin flight.

Compared to international flights, this was a short and efficient flight; the Perth-Broome leg taking just over 2 hours, touching down at 1.30 pm.

The dry desert of Western Australia is amazing as always, I ooh and ahh over the redness of the land but Rob doesn't seem as impressed. The camera doesn't seem to quite capture the colour as well, it's then I realise that my prescription sunnies with the brown tint is making everything redder and orange-ier than it is.

Ochre-red earth meeting the azure blue of the ocean is spectacular.

We're met at the airport by the shuttle bus and it's a 90 mins drive. On arrival at Eco Beach Resort, we're greeted with glasses of iced tea and cool towels.

Our Eco tent gave a favourable first impression - imagine a very large sturdy tent, with plenty of head-height, wooden floors, sides zipped down to let cooling breezes through.

A small 20L esky is provided, and ice can be purchased for $2.50 a bag.

Our tent is literally 100m from the restaurant/reception which is great - definitely worth getting the tent with an ocean view. Being elevated means you get some lovely views, lots of breeze.

We enjoyed fiery Tequila Sunrise cocktails $10, and being Friday, opted for the buffet bbq.

There was a very good selection of meats - local salmon, chicken, kangaroo, choice steak. Salads and soup are also included in the price for $39, or you can simply have the salad/entrée buffet for $29. This is also a good option, with caesar salad, spinach leaves, coleslaw, mushroom, corn on the cob, roast potatoes. The tomato and veg soup was very very good, bread rolls and butter were a perfect accompaniment.

The sunset on our first night at Eco Beach Resort.

Old showerheads for new!

2011-10-31T06:00:00.001+08:00

We're lucky to live in a wonderful country. Beautiful beaches, great weather, open spaces, clean roads. Free showerheads, toilet replacements.

Perth experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During summer (December - February), it's not unusual for there to be extended dry periods, bushfires are common as searing heat scorches through bush, farmers complain of drought and we deal with water restrictions.

There are rebates on watersaving programs, such as raintank installations and bore water. During summer, watering restrictions are in place as residents pour thousands of litres of water into their gardens while our dams slowly dry up.

Recently, we swapped our old showerheads for new, thanks to the Showerhead Swap program.

If you are a Water Corporation customer and own a residential property in the metropolitan area, you can exchange up to two old water-guzzling showerheads for highly efficient replacements absolutely FREE!
Installing a water efficient showerhead is the best way to save water inside the home. On average the shower uses approximately 22% of overall household water use.

We seriously considered the Toilets to Go program (haha, love the names) but this one unfortunately, isn't free.

Check out WaterCorp's Waterwise Programs to see what else is on offer.

Perspective 2

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000+08:00

Faster than a speeding bullet. More powerful than a locomotive. Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound.

Parenting and teenagers. Boundaries and perspectives. Constantly shifting.

This is how IVF should be billed

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000+08:00

City Fertility Centre has a payment structure where payment is only made on the day of egg collection. On the day of egg collection, the Medicare claim is submitted online, resulting in the patient being out of pocket only a few days.

It really is the best option - other than a money back guarantee ;)

You know you're getting fat when ...

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000+08:00

1. You walk into the fitting rooms with a slinky dress and a loose-fitting top, and you walk out sans the dress and just buy the top.

2. You give your favourite little black dress to your teenage daughter.

Work = busy = neglecting my blog

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000+08:00

Just like the 3 things that I find really difficult to shop for - jeans, bras and swimmers, there are 3 things that I've been stressed, frustrated, disappointed and pissed about - infertility, the kids and work.

Infertility - I feel like a large part of the last 4 years have been spent waiting, with things put on hold, decisions made and unmade based on the what-ifs.

Kids - the stress and disappointment of truancy, school, lack of motivation has been unbearable. At times, I would find it hard to breathe, it was like the walls were closing in and the burden of dread was heavy on my shoulders and in my heart.

Work - choices and decisions have been made based on the 2 factors above. Rightly or wrongly. And as I found myself stuck in an unbearable situation, with the thought of maternity leave, excellent pay rates and flexible times, I have been unable to leave.

Even when things got unbearable, I hung in there, grimly.

Then, I applied and got a temporary position elsewhere. The change has been good. I am doing different work, doing more work for less pay!

So much so, that I have been too busy and have neglected my blog. This may continue for some time, I'm uncertain as to the state of things, plus I seem to have lost some motivation in blogging.

Maybe I need another holiday?

Working at opposite ends of town

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000+08:00

I've been working in the middle of town for the last few years, whereas Rob has been all over the place - East Perth, near the Hyatt, further down the terrace near Mill Street. He finally moved to an office just behind mine - as I moved down the terrace close to where he used to work.

I used to get the car from the carpark and pick him up at the jetty.

Now our roles are reversed.

Apples, dogs and chewing gum

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000+08:00

Funny how certain things - a smell, an object, a song - can bring back a memory.

I had an old apple sitting at my desk that needed to be thrown out. As I grabbed it, I was struck by the memory of Bishop, my black labrador. I bought him as a pup 6 years ago, fed him, walked him, took him to puppy classes.

He loved cheese and apples. I remember him nudging and rolling the apple around the ground.

And chewing gum. The smell and taste takes me back even further - 28 years ago. I am 13 years old, and have gone on a trip to Fraser's Hill with some school friends. How on earth did my parents allow me to go???

Catching a bus to Fraser's Hill, with a bunch of 13-14 year old girls, we stayed in a big old creepy house, stayed up late telling ghost stories. Not being able to book return tickets, only some of us got on the bus as it was full, and the rest of us stayed back to try and find accomodation.

Somehow, chewing gum will always be associated with that time.

Comparison of IVF fees - Hollywood and Concept

2011-10-10T06:00:00.001+08:00

I like to make things easy to read and understand, and as much I tried to compare clinic fees before starting IVF, there wasn't any information that was clear with a fair comparison of costs.

Firstly, understand that there are many things involved with ivf: medication, doctor's fees, anaethetist fees, hospital fees and finally, IVF clinic fees.

To make my comparisons fair, I have excluded :
- medication (different medication for different protocols)
- anaethetist fees (inescapable and varies from clinic to clinic depending on who they use. Some are great and charge the Medicare schedule fees which means you are not out of pocket)
- hospital fees (theatre costs for egg pickup, transfer and should be covered if you have private health insurance)

I have also costed this as a subsequent IVF procedure for the year (item no.13201) instead of the first procedure. You get more back for subsequent cycles, if it's your first, the cost will be approximately $500 more.

So basically, we're looking at your fertility specialist fees, their fees for egg pickup and embryo transfer, and lastly, the clinic's IVF fees.

Note that some of them do not include blastocyst culture or freezing as part of their base fees. Blastocyst being more common these days, and a good standard to aim for, plus if you're lucky, you will have some leftover for the freezer.

Concept fees 2011 - Base fees $6325 (Blastocyst cost add extra $750) = $7075

Item no.	Cost	Medicare rebate	Health Fund	Out of Pocket
13209 Dr’s Planning & Management	$85	$79.60	0	$5.40
13212 Dr’s egg pickup	$413.05	$255.80	$85.25	$72.00
13215 Dr’s embryo transfer	$129.60	$80.20	$26.70	$22.70
Total Dr’s fees	$627.65			$100.10
13201 Clinic IVF fees	$7075	$4996.85	0	$2078.15
Total fees	$7702.65			$2178.25

Hollywood fees 2011 - base fees $5620 (includes blastocyst culture)

Item no.	Cost	Medicare rebate	Health Fund	Out of Pocket
13209 Dr’s Planning & Management	$228	$79.60	0	$148.40
13212 Dr’s egg pickup	$607.20	$255.80	$85.25	$266.15
13215 Dr’s embryo transfer	$377.25	$137.30	0	$239.95
Total Dr’s fees	$1212			$654.50
13201 Clinic IVF fees	$5620	$4994.05	0	$626.50
Total	$6832			$1281

As you can see, the total out of pocket cost comparison is around $1000.

Concept's doctor fees are a lot cheaper, and only $100 out of pocket. But, their clinic IVF fees are a lot more expensive, so at the end, based on doctor and clinic fees alone, Hollywood is much cheaper.

However. Hollywood embryo transfer is not considered "in-hospital" treatment, and I've had anaesthetist fees at Concept fully-covered.

Is one clinic pretty much the same as the other? No. We have much better service at Hollywood, the waiting room is less full compared to Concept's. But Hollywood requires you to pay full-fees upfront. And more importantly - success rate?

Last note, Hollywood fees are increasing next month.

Piercing

2011-10-05T06:00:00.046+08:00

Earlier this year, my 14-year-old daughter asked me if she could get her belly-button pierced.

There are laws and heavy penalties in Western Australia regarding body piercing, minimum age and consent for minors.

Under the Children and Community Services Act 2004, the law and definitions are outlined:

Children under 18 are not allowed any piercing in any intimate area (genitals, anal area, perineum and nipples) - regardless of parental consent.
Children under 18 require the written consent of their parent to have a piercing in a non-intimate area (nose, tongue, face, belly button and other skin surfaces)
Children over the age of 16 does not need parent permission for ear piercing

See Parent FAQs and Piercing Info Sheet for more info.
After doing some reading, I handballed the issue to her father. His response - as long as she didn't get a piercing on her face.

I felt intensely uncomfortable with the whole issue of MY daughter and body piercing. Weird, I know. I got her ears pierced as a present on her 8th birthday, but ... body piercing is a whole different story. The stigma and first impression of someone with a stud, or lots of studs wildly wagging and poking out of their tongue, or eyebrow.

I have friends with studs in their tongue. And what's the difference with piercing your ears? When does one go from being a "lady" with a single stud in an ear, to being a "punk" with multiple studs in an ear?

The main issue I have is her age. Ash is only 14 - a very dangerous age. I remember being 14. It's the age of experimentation. I don't want her to make a choice which she may regret, a choice based on peer pressure and body image, a choice without the maturity that a few more years might provide.

Time passed, and she didn't mention it again. Until recently. This time, I said no. Not until she turns 16 anyway.

Antral Follicle Count - eggs retrieved

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000+08:00

Just another graph that embodies the craziness of IVF. Perhaps not as crazy as obsessing about EGRs (estrogen growth rate formula)!

Alternate pathway entry into university

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000+08:00

I've almost given up on the idea of Josh going to university next year.

Then I received a letter from his English teacher, which basically said that Josh was a good enough student, was "uni-mature" and had the potential to go to university.

That set my googling sights on:

Curtin University offers flexible entry pathways, and the one I was interested in was Curtin's Uniready Enabling Program. This allows you to allows you to study a few units over a semester (all online) and achieve uni entry.

ECU alternate entry pathways - nothing is ever as straightforward as it sounds. It has been well over 20 years since I applied for uni, things were a lot simpler back then.

ECU portfolio entry and ECU UPC (University Preparation Course) - have a look at the English competency requirements.

I was confused, and emailed the question:

I'm enquiring on behalf of my son who isfinishing Year 12 this year. He will not have ATAR, but will have Maths 2, English 1, Music 1, Phys Ed 1, Outdoor Ed 1 and Career & enterprise 1. I understand he will achieve English competency as he got an A in English 1. Does that mean he can apply via Portfolio entry? Does he still apply via TISC or directly to ECU?

Amidst the gobbledy-gook in the email, these were relevant:

Please note that Stage 1 Englich (C/D--mark of A) meets requirements in to the UPC for literacy; not in to a Bachelor's Course. For a Bachelors Stage 2 is required.

and then ....

Unfortunately his stage 1 English does not make him eligible for portfolio entry into a Bachelors degree. He can however submit a portfolio for consideration in the UPC.

and more ...

Having either stage 1 (for UPC) or stage 2 English does not automatically guarantee entry into a degree through the portfolio. Once the portfolio is submitted we will still asses the qualifications and English competency of the student. However to be eligible to even submit the portfolio the student needs to have stage 2 English for a Bachelors degree and an "A" in Stage 1 English for the UPC.

Basically I guess he qualifies for the UPC.

Stay tuned ....

Bella Vista B&B Mandurah

2011-09-28T06:00:00.003+08:00

It feels like forever since our last proper holiday.

Rob and I desperately needed a break, so it was off to Mandurah for us, a 50-minute drive down south. As it was a spur-of-the moment thing, we had to ring around a few places, before finally getting a night at Bellavista Bed and Breakfast.

It was a bit weird driving through suburbs and then up a driveway to a house. It was weird, staying at someone's home, in the suburbs, less than an hour drive from home ...

But, like Rob said, that's what all B&B's are ...

And the minute we stepped in the house and met our gracious hostess Isobel, we felt very welcome and pampered.

The bedroom is huge, the bed is huge, and the corner bath was deliciously indulgent. Nothing was overlooked, this 4 1/2 star B&B is truly luxurious.

Our weekend of pampering started straightaway, as we were served tea/coffee...

The portions of apple teacake were generously served with fresh strawberries and a gigantic dollop of cream ... no scrimping here, we really couldn't ask for a better start to our stay.

On the little balcony in full sun, I flipped through the newspaper and put up my feet.

For dinner, we decided to walk into town to have a few drinks. Apart from reading the scale on the map all wrong, it was fine ... we started off at 6.40pm in the evening, ready to stroll the 20-30 minutes into Mandurah ...

We got to town about 8.20pm with aching feet and rumbling tummies. Dinner at The Sebel Hotel restaurant with a good band and atmosphere, then another walk back home, this time, taking an hour.

The next morning, we were served a gigantic platter of fresh fruit, before a fully-cooked breakfast of our choice appeared, followed by more pastries, tea, coffee ... we were fully stuffed and more than satisfied!

Rob tucks into bacon and eggs while my scrambled eggs await me.

We felt very very spoilt. At $180 a night, this is probably towards the high-end of what we usually pay ... but for immaculate, spotless, gleaming facilities, comfy, luxurious accomodation, absolutely delicious breakfast, throw in a few wild kangaroos, it was worth it.

IVF 2ww: Dealing with it in my own way

2011-09-26T06:00:00.001+08:00

Right! This post is not about what you should or shouldn't do during your two week wait. You can google and obsess about symptoms as much as you like - if that's your way of dealing with it. You can be positive, decorating baby's nursery room, thinking of creative ways to break the happy news, shopping for maternity clothes (yes, some forums actually do suggest that!), having a healthy diet, moderate exercise, abstain from sex, cry, drink lots of wine ...

I think what works for one person won't work for another. You need to know yourself, and what helps you along this journey.

I found a few thoughts from a forum on relaxation CDs and some advice which I really like:

"Where can you put your best focus?

Chances are, if you are someone who has been through believing and then getting negative results, focusing on "I'm pregnant" is going to be really hard.

How about a focus of:

I've done the best I know how to do.
I'm allowing my body to do the best it/she can do in this moment
I do what I can do and leave the rest to Spirit/God/Universe
No matter what happens, I'll find a way to be a Mother
I'm open to receiving the best outcome for this cycle

See if there's one of these that speaks to you or if it inspires a thought of your own.

Your body knows your desire is to get pregnant and have a healthy baby at the end of nine months. Your job--from a Mind~Body perspective--is to find a way to have thoughts that match this desire.

Focusing on "I'm pregnant," when you've had a lot of experience to prove that it isn't a certainty that you are, now puts your thoughts in direct conflict with your desire. You find yourself resisting the thoughts you are thinking and not being able to get into the flow that was easier to find during the first part of your cycle.

You want to pick a thought that leaves you feeling open and connected with your body--not fighting it.

No matter where you are in your cycle right now, begin to think about what your best focus can be."

Being on this trying to conceive journey for almost 4 years and going through 3 IUIs and 8 IVF transfers, I do think my perspective has changed.

I was so positive and hopeful at the beginning. Even with all the statistics staring at me, we tried 3 IUIs unsuccessfully, hoping we would get lucky and not have to take the next major step - IVF.

The negative result from our first IVF left me shattered and devastated. It wasn't until our 4th transfer that something shifted, some transfer of acceptance. I had less anticipation and positiveness, knowing that I would fall very hard with the end result. And it was the first result where I haven't actually been sad, and didn't think about the little lost embryo that never made it.

I still obsess and google. During our 8th cycle, I emailed my new doctor frantically about my high estrogen levels. I tried to graph my EGR. As always, I felt a bit flat leading up to transfer day.

Right now, I'm at a place where I believe I have 50-50 odds of getting pregnant after having an embryo transfer. I KNOW that older women have like, 5% chance of getting pregnant every month. And that my 41-year-old eggs have deteriorated in quality.

I see the red and green dots, representing good and bad quality eggs ...
- "Quite often, the reason IVF fails is as simple as "we didn't get a green dot"

and I believe that if I keep trying, we will eventually get a green dot.

I realise that even with IVF, the wonder of science, medical procedures, technology, hormones, embryo culture and everything which is IN YOUR FACE and tells you that a good quality blastocyst was transferred and should have implanted ... that there are things beyond your control such as the embryo not implanting, or implanting then not progressing due to lack of energy/mitochondria.

I also have a better understanding about why IVF fails, and appreciate the true complexity and wonder of human life and creation.

A positive attitude all of the time is not required. I've done all that I can do.

Hair styles for the past 12 months

2011-09-23T06:00:00.002+08:00

It's been an up and down last 12 months, not just with kids and IVF, but also my hair.

In December 2010, I finally decided to go from straight to curly.

I loooved my curly hair, it made me feel sexy!

Sadly, all good things must come to an end ...

As my fringe grew out, I decided to chop it, and it was .... ugh.

April 2011 - Off with the hair, off with the hair!

Of course, THAT didn't last long either, and by the time we came back from our holidays in England, it was a rather shapeless mess.

May 2011 Much shorter - I really like this style.

July 2011 - As it grew out, I made a fatal mistake of asking my mum to cut my hair. I also decided to touch up my greys ... they really made me feel old.

I managed to find an ad in Gumtree where hairdressing apprentices would colour for a small fee. It went ok, for $25, I can't really complain.

Secretly, I yearned for something outrageously bold, like this:

This was what I wanted - of course, my hair was a lot shorter, but I wanted that chunky, pieced look

Still, no harm trying ... back to the apprentice trainee I went.

August 2011 - Before shot:

As the colour and foils start to go on, I try and take a photo surreptitiously ...

Yes, great look!

Ta-da! Just finished ...

Final result - can you see I've gone back to my black hair colour ...? I'm disappointed at the choppiness of the colour though ... wanted chunkier pieces.

Before ..... After!

The Core Cider House (HighVale Biodynamic Orchard)

2011-09-21T06:00:00.001+08:00

On a rare weekend without the kids, I decided it would be nice to drive around and check out some fruit orchards.

We ended up at The Core Cider House (or Highvale Orchard) in Pickering Brook, which is about 20-30 minutes from us. The first thing we see as we're walking up is a gorgeous timber patio set up high on posts.

There are also seats outside which were still sunny, but we opted to sit out on the deck. And drink in the view. It was a bit chilly as we sat there in the late afternoon sun in winter, but there were stripey blankets to cuddle up in, and gas patio heaters next to the table.

Being winter, most of the fruit trees were bare with the exception of a few oranges.

The Core does cider on tap, and sell bottled ciders as well ... we didn't try any, but opted for a late lunch of chicken panini and coffee. Not much of a choice on the menu, but I guess the view and excellent coffee made up for it.

It was cosy, peaceful and Rob and I just had a quiet time chatting. A nice cosy place for a weekend drive, coffee and, perhaps next time, cider.

Check out Libertine Eats review as well, and pictures from the Core Cider House page on Facebook

Acupuncture: Not a believer but trying anyway

2011-09-19T06:00:00.025+08:00

Yep this is me. Needles sticking out of my ankles, wrists, tummy and forehead. Oh and not forgetting the burning herbs on my tummy, strategically positioned over my navel - I think it's called moxibustion

I'm back to trying acupuncture again. I've read and heard of the benefits of acupuncture treatments for infertility, but ... even though I'm Asian, I don't know if I really believe in it.

There are many Chinese traditions and superstitions, relating to childbirth (can't wash your hair for a month after giving birth), confinement etc etc which I don't really believe in. And yet, I'm willing to try just for traditions' sake, as well as a "can't hurt to try" shrug.

I've gone for acupuncture before, in 2009 when we were doing IUI and 2010 with IVF. I didn't do many sessions, they cost a bomb ($50-$60 per session).

I think I've been looking for someone that I can trust, as well as it not costing so much. At the moment, I'm seeing Dr Soh in West Leederville who's actually a qualified GP. He's actually the first Asian doctor I've met who isn't abrupt, curt or brusque.

Acupuncture sessions run for about 30 minutes, costs $95 of which you can claim $67.50 back from Medicare. (unless you're over the threshold anyway, and then you get $89.55 back!)

Dr. Philip Soh (Acupuncture Physician)
Unit 2, 42 McCourt Street
West Leederville
Ph: 9382 8982

Sing for your supper - Finlay's Fresh Fish BBQ

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000+08:00

I'd read about Finlay's Fresh Fish BBQ where one can sing for their supper, and rated as #3 on Lonely Planet's 18 things to do in Kalbarri, thought it sounded original. Located in an old tin shed, the place is unpretentious, seating is all outside and was a bit cold although there was a fire going.

As we stood and gazed at the menu, there wasn't much of a choice but then again, it wasn't supposed to be fancy. Gary the owner was cooking away in the open kitchen just next to us, so I put on my bravest "tourist" face and asked casually if my dad could sing for his supper.

In no time flat, my dad's name was boomed out over the speaker, and he tottered up, was handed a microphone and promptly launched into "Your Cheating Heart" - an oldie but a goodie.

As the song continued, my dad cheekily called out his own name ...

When tears come down like falling rain
You'll toss around and call my name - KC, KC, KC ....

It was a hoot. And he got not one main meal, but two - a very generous gesture by Gary towards my mum and dad.

DIY sandboarding adventures in Kalbarri

2011-09-14T06:00:00.002+08:00

DIY Sandboarding
With Sandboarding costing $70-$80 pp, we decided to take Ash sandboarding ourselves, having bought a cheap boogie board to use. Armed with a map from the Kalbarri Tourist Bureau and a squiggle on the map to indicate the turnoff which had 2 windmills and a memorial outside, we borrowed my parents 4WD and drove for about 40km.

Finding the turnoff wasn't a problem. Finding where to go after the turnoff was the problem. The road very quickly became a gravelly path which soon split into several directions. In front of us, small sandy hills blocked our view and access to the beach.

It was a matter of eenie-meenie-miney-mo to choose a path that looked as though it might lead to the beach or sand dunes.

And then more eenie-moe-ing as the paths diverged even more. At one point, the path was swamped and flooded with recent rain, a solitary car seemingly abandoned before it. We turned around and tried a path that led far far away .... nothing.

Turning around again, back to the centre where the paths diverged, we chose yet another path. This one got smaller and smaller, narrower and narrower until the bushes started sweeping against the sides of the car. We doggedly pressed on. Until the never ending narrow path got the best of us and we turned around once more.

Would mere mortals have given up then?

Not us. We tried the swampled flooded path again. It wasn't deep but I got out at times just to check. As the potholes grew deeper, mud squelched under the tyres as Rob carefully drove up the side. Too carefully. We were bogged. My worst nightmare.

Awful visions swam in my mind as I stepped out into the mud. I cast all pretence aside as I swore and squelched about. We weren't actually bogged too deep, but with no phone signal, I racked my brain on what I'd encountered and heard about being bogged: dig the car out, use a board under the wheels for traction ...

After a few minutes, we decided to reverse, hoping that would do it. I don't remember how, I just remember standing there staring at the wheels spin, and yelling a lot.

Still not the end. We drive back with my heart still pumping and nerves shattered: lost, bogged, parents' car scratched, muddy ...

We were almost back at the start when ... we spotted a small truck and a 4WD. We hadn't yet given up hope, we'd come so far and luckily, the bloke in the car said he would show us the way.

Hallelujah!

He told us that we shouldn't drive on the side of the swampy muddied road, but instead, drive straight through the water. That wasn't the path he took us on anyway. We turned to the right just before getting to the swampy muddy road.

After about 15 minutes of driving, he waved us on at a small encampment as he took the trail to the right. We were now on track to the beach, but ... the problem was that we were now about to drive on sand! And we'd been told to let our tyres down! And we didn't know how to do that!

I'd well and truly had enough by then and was not going to risk anymore.

Thanks Kalbarri, for not signposting the way to the sand-dunes.

Kalbarri camping

2011-09-12T06:00:00.008+08:00

Last school holidays we went to Kalbarri for a few nights of camping. It was my idea. I remember being a teenager and I had a school friend who visited and raved on about the gorges.

So, with winter firmly outside our doorstep, it seemed like a good idea to head north and drag the kids away from the computers.

With my parents coming along in their caravan, and my cousin and her 2 girls, I put on my Research Hat and started googling for things to do in Kalbarri.

I found lots:

- Boats for hire - for river, kayaks, surfcats, paddleboats ... Kalbarri Boat Hire or Murchison Boat Hire for bigger boats out to sea
- Fishing info

- for the kids: Rainbow Jungle, Horse-riding, Abseiling

- Pelican feeding 8.45am, Grey St waterfront near boat hire
Other : http://kalbarriedge.com.au/things-to-do/

On a misty winter's morning, we packed up the kids and took the 7-hour drive up north to Kalbarri. My fully-organised father had provided written instructions on not only the route to take, but what to pack, advice on getting an early nights sleep, and even wee stops!

Rob and I took turns driving on the Brand Highway, through Gingin and Geraldton, turning left on to the coastal drive from Northhampton through some beautiful hamlet countryside. We had 2 stops and an easy drive all up, leaving at 6.30am to arrive at 1.30pm.

Kalbarri Anchorage Park was our home for the next few nights. We had swags and alternated between the swags and 2 spare beds in the cabin.

Boy letter vs Girl letter

2011-09-09T06:00:00.021+08:00

I am very lucky to have one child of each sex - a son and a daughter. When Ash was born, we didn't find out the sex of the baby until she came out, and as I gasped out - "What is it??" and the answer came back - "A girl!!", I replied - "Thank god!!"

I was exhausted and in pain after labour and birth, so my response was one of relief, and honesty.

14 years later, I am in pain again, but it's at the differences in raising sons and daughters.

My 17-year-old son gives me much pain from his attitude towards school and attendance. I get letters of concern with his attendance and his lack of motivation.

My 14-year-old daughter adds, and counters some of that pain, with her general moody teenagerness but has no problems with school attendance. Her attendance is good, she receives school awards for getting As and is diligent in school work. I get letters commending her attitude and awards.

Is it genes, hormones, or environment?

Name Your Home - UBank competition

2011-09-07T06:00:00.016+08:00

It's so nice to win something. Even when it's a small thing, like getting a cheap deal on fruit.

After our last holiday to England, I was so inspired by the lovely character homes and taken by the personalization of houses that proudly bore a plaque with a house name.

The tradition of naming houses dates back many centuries in Britain and throughout Europe. In Britain, house names were traditionally the only way of identifying a house. It wasn't until the Postage Act of 1765 that house numbering was introduced in some areas.

I had been intrigued to learn when we went to the Isle of Wight that Rob's great-great-grandfather had been a constable in Wootton.

So when I entered the Name Your Home competition that was run by UBank (backed by NAB), I decided on Little Wootton - a little bit of history combined with Rob's English culture.

It was a beautifully made sign framed in wood and glass and looks fantastic!

For some inspiration on naming your home, check this out and other suggestions.

8th IVF cycle - result (part 5)

2011-09-05T06:00:00.004+08:00

Transfer is done on a Wednesday and I have that whole week off. I don't really have too much on and spend a lot of time curled up on the couch, soaking up the winter sun and reading.

At Hollywood, I'm given Crinone gel to use for progesterone support and also had 2 jabs of Pregnyl for luteal support before the transfer.

Surprisingly, I had no breast tenderness at all leading up to egg collection even with my high estrogen levels (13000 at trigger). I would always get them when doing IVF at Concept previously. And even after embryo transfer, I would usually have sore boobs for around 5 days, then it would slowly fade away.

This time, it kinda got reversed. I didn't get any sore boobs until about 5 days AFTER transfer. They lasted for about 4 days, but still, were nowhere as sore as previous cycles. About a week after transfer, I had a feeling that I wasn't pregnant. The sore boobs were just like sore boobs from before.

I had a feeling that the soreness wouldn't last and sure enough, by the next Friday, they were fading. Blood test was actually scheduled for Monday but we were going away so we went in on Friday. And I am fully prepared. Already deciding on what to do for the next month. Discussing with Rob about our frozen embryo.

The nurse's tone as I answer my phone is sad and mournful. I feel like shouting and saying: "Oh for goodness sake woman ... get it over and done with!"

So, another negative result. Thank goodness I was prepared.

Close up

2011-09-02T06:00:00.000+08:00

Warning: post contains close-up of my face!

I was bored at work and this is the result. And as I analysed my own face, it astonishes me how uneven and lopsided everything is.

My eyes are a different size.

One side of my nose looks a bit squashier than the other.

My mouth is lopsided.

Darn, the only thing that looks even and dead centred is the mole in the middle of my chin!

Nao Japanese Restaurant, Murray Street, Perth

2011-08-31T06:00:00.003+08:00

As payback for a work colleague who wrote me a work reference, (he basically said - you owe me lunch!) we decided to have lunch at Nao Japanese restaurant in Murray Street.

Nao is pretty tiny, it's interior is narrow and has about 6 small tables squeezed in. Outside, there's room for about 8 people seated al fresco.

We arrived at 12.30pm and it was already full, but we put our name down on the list and 15-minutes didn't seem that long.

Nao is famous for its home-made ramen (noodles) so that's what we all went for. You can order off the favourite ... or build your own by choosing a soup base, noodle and ingredients.

Spicy miso chicken ramen with green noodles

At around $10.50 a bowl, I found the Nao's ramen noodle soup to be hearty, warming and good value.

Check out more reviews on: Urban Spoon for more reviews on Nao

P.S. He wrote me an awesome reference so it was worth it!

8th IVF cycle - embryo transfer (part 4)

2011-08-29T06:00:00.000+08:00

We are scheduled for a transfer at 9am, and we arrive at 8.30am. The embryologist chats to us, they are transferring one blastocyst, the other is an early blastocyst and the other 2 are just starting to compact.

Ushered into the recovery room, it's cold and the room quickly fills up, curtains separating each chair. There is an annoying "ahem ahem ahem" every few seconds from one of them, someone with a sore/tickly throat and this goes on for more than 30 minutes.

They're late, and we finally make it to transfer room at 9.30am. Not a moment too soon, as my bladder is bursting. We're advised to have a semi-full bladder to make it easier to see the uterus during ultrasound guided transfer, and it also flattens the uterus.

But. The probe isn't working, and so we don't do an ultrasound guided transfer. I am disappointed. However, the transfer, as usual, goes smoothly and we're allowed to leave straightaway.

The next morning - good news. The early blastocyst has finished doing its business so it was frozen. I also pluck up the courage to ask about grades. Can't help myself. The frozen blastocyst is grade 1 and the one transferred yesterday was a grade 2.

100 reasons why I love my husband - #7

2011-08-26T06:00:00.001+08:00

Rob and I watched "Red Dog" last weekend. For those who haven't heard of it (mainly because it's an Australian movie), it's based on the wanderings of an Australian kelpie and the lives he touched.

The movie has been gaining popularity since its release in August and won the Audience Award at the Vail Film Festival.

I'm not a huge fan of Australian movies, but there was a sense of hype about it. As much as I didn't want to be disappointed, the first half of the movie was a huge yawn for me. I got impatient with each story that was inserted, I was annoyed by the stereotypical Italian narration, too much explanation, talking and overacting made me itch and sigh with annoyance and distress.

Finally as the movie developed, it starts to get better as we're introduced to John (a rather yummy Josh Lucas). Koko (who plays the part of Red Dog) is amazingly good. His expressions are superb, there is no doubt about what he's trying to say and he easily wins my heart.

There are many goodies throughout the movie that are good for a laugh - the macho "knitter" image for one, blokes on the bus when they see a pretty girl. I also thought Rohan Nicol was a hidden gem of a role - quiet and understated.

Of course, I'm a real softie at heart, I cry easily when reading books, so watching Red Dog's devotion as he awaits his master's return is truly wrenching.

How did this post about "100 reasons why I love my husband" turn into a movie review??

Well, because Rob is more a cat-lover, because, as he himself admits - he's not a big fan of "over-the-top" scenes and music and heart-tuggers.

So even when Red Dog dominates Red Cat in battle, I am a little surprised to find Rob sharing my tissue at the end, as the devoted dog is found lying next to his master's side.

Collie Volleyball country tournament

2011-08-24T06:00:00.043+08:00

Going back to playing volleyball in 2009, I missed out on the Collie country tournament that year but did go to Bunbury. IVF commitments kept me from volleyball last year but I squeezed in at the last minute with a team to Collie.

This year, we were definitely more organised as planning, accomodation, nominations, team names and uniforms were organised super early. Great to be in a team of young uns (age range from 21, to 30s and then me, at 41!) who showed their creativity by suggesting we dress up as Where's Wally , with a team name of "Wallyballers".

Unfortunately events such as recent and upcoming AVL games meant that only 3 teams nominated for A-grade, with Bunbury pulled up to make a 4th.

Still, we had heaps of fun ... with 2 wins from 3 games on Saturday, we were ready to party with a bit of help from the Collie Bucket of Fun. Seriously smashing, as the combination of champagne and vodka proved almost too much for my poor tummy and head later that night ...

It was also great to have the Divvi 1 men's team play as well, and, like us, made it to the grand-finals but lost.

8th IVF cycle - egg retrieval (part 3)

2011-08-22T06:00:00.004+08:00

It's day 16 and we're doing egg retrieval; the latest we've ever done one. Previous ERs were done on day 13 or 14.

This is our first pickup at the new clinic, so I'm a little bit uncertain on what might be different. 7am admission at the Day Surgery of Hollywood Private Hospital, everything is very very efficient - checked in, paperwork checked, called into another lounge, everything was checked and spot on.

I slip into the robe and have a toasty warm blanket to cover me. I am wheeled in a few minutes before 8am in the holding area, then spot on 8am I am in theatre. Anaethetist chats to me as she preps me, I can feel the coldness of the anaesthetic as it slips into my veins, and I drop off without a single thought.

8.45am and I groggily open my eyes. A little bit disoriented, before the words "6 eggs retrieved ...." float to my head. It's less than I expected, and the disappointment sits on my chest for the rest of the day.

Still. The next hurdle is yet to come - fertilization, and I'm just relieved to have passed this milestone. A crampy ache in my lower tummy and I cave in with a couple of panadols towards the end of the day.

Day 1 after egg retrieval: I have a missed call from the clinic at 8.30am (yay for sleeping in on Saturday) so I quickly call them back at 9.30am. Hoping for the best, after my disappointment at only having 6 eggs.

I stare out at the morning sky and the city skyline as I listen to the embryologist - she sounds very perky. 4 out of 6 eggs have fertilized! That's a good result.

Rob and I had discussed ICSI, as this was done at our last cycle at Concept. I am not 100% for it. We have a debate after egg retrieval, regarding the pros and cons, statistics and studies during our Friday night dinner at our local curry place.

I know we're not going the "a la naturel" route of babymaking any longer, but ICSI makes me feel ... a bit violated. There is still no clear answer on whether doing ICSI increases the risk of birth defects. But, I feel as there is no issue with Rob's sperm and everything is normal in that sense, then the potential for low fertilization rates lie with the eggs.

So with this cycle, we have gone au-naturale-IVF, no ICSI, and have pretty good results. I'm happy.

I ask if they will call me the next day, but they don't. Hollywood likes to leave the eggs undisturbed as much as possible.

I must must stop anticipating, expecting, and working out numbers and statistics. It's driving me up the wall!

Day 3 after egg retrieval: I'm driving on Roe Highway when the embryologist calls and I pullover. As usual, I try to work out the outcome from her tone. (why are all embryologists female??!!)

I am semi-prepared for an average result, but ...

2 embryos at 9-cells!
2 more already at morula!

I can hardly believe my ears. Then, I ask her if they grade them at this point:

2 @ 9-cells, both Grade 1
1 @ morula, Grade 1
1 @ morula, Grade 2

I am SO happy. We've never had any embryos at more than 8-cell on day 3, and these results are seriously good. I continue driving, big smile on my face, inwardly singing. Then 5 minutes later:

"are they dividing too fast??"

Here enters my obssessive dilemma and I dive into Google when I get home. I've always thought that they expect to see embryos between 6-8 cells on day 3, but actually it can be between 6-12 cells. So from being what I thought was an "over-achiever", they are now averagely-good.

Planning activities in Perth

2011-08-19T06:00:00.004+08:00

Last year, Ash pronounced that she "wanted a Japanese kid". As usual, I indulged her, and we became a host family for 2 weeks to a Japanese student from Hyogo.

Our exchange student was extremely shy and quiet, and it was with some trepidation that I agreed to take another one on this year.

There were also activities to plan for - what to do with her on the weekends and after school?? When we come home from work, the kids are usually on the computer, and weekends were busy with volleyball.

Coming from an adventurous nature where I've gone skydiving, canyon swing, taken the kids waterfall-abseiling, caving and rafting, all I can think of are adventurous activities - I hope she's up for it!

Fremantle Jet boat ride

Archery at Melville

Fremantle markets

Learn to Surf

Rafting http://www.dwellingupadventures.com.au/home.htm
http://www.adventureout.com.au/programs/29-rafting

Karakamia Sanctuary Visitors program, 2 hours bush walk (5pm Fri and Saturdays)

Camping near Mundaring and Perth Hills Centre

Imperfect Parents

2011-08-17T06:00:00.002+08:00

How many mistakes do we keep repeating as parents?

Do we see our parents' mistakes and vow never to repeat them?

We are imperfect human beings, and imperfect parents.

We are only human.

As I struggle with my parenting, I see my own parents still struggling with their own relationships and lives.

Struggling with alcohol.

Struggling with the perception of being a man. Strong.

It hurts to see. There is very little I can do. We each have our own journey to make.

8th IVF cycle - drugged up (part 2)

2011-08-15T06:00:00.001+08:00

Day 6, traffic is a bit heavy and I only get to the clinic around 8.45am. Bad time, there's a school just down the road and I have to dodge and turn before I get parking.

The waiting room is empty, I place my green card for the blood test in the box, sit down, and almost immediately jump straight up for my blood test.

I've been injecting 150IU of Puregon since day 3, my estrogen levels today are a bit low - 470. I'm instructed to up the dose to 175IU, another blood test and scan on Friday (day 9).

Day 9 - E2 is 1600. Follicle count and scan seems cursory, exact numbers are not given, and Rob has to write down the measurements. Most of them are around 10mm I think.

Day 12 - again, Rob holds the clipboard and writes down the measurements: 17mm, 16mmx2, 13mmx2, 12mmx3, 11, lots of 10s ....
I wonder if he wasn't there, would it be me, lying on the chair, legs apart, clutching the clipboard ...??

E2 is 6400. My gut feeling and obsessing with formulas and charts, tells me that's too high :(
It should have been between 2600-3500 for it to fit the formula.

I speak to Dr.P later and babble on about my EGR and estrogen being too high. He says that he's quite pleased with my levels so far, echoing what the nurse told me earlier; that my levels and follicles are really good for my age ....

But. I tell him I've always responded well. Been told my ovaries are young. And I would rather hold the slow-and-steady race. And wouldn't it make a difference, just to reduce the Puregon a bit????

Got to stop obsessing. Too much going on right now - volleyball, work and IVF. Is it just hormones?

Day 14 - We haven't had to take any doxycycline antibiotics for either Rob or myself here at Hollywood. I also noticed that I didn't have any breast soreness, unlike previous cycles where my estrogen was pretty high. Taking cycle 6 as an example, I remember getting sore breasts before day 9, and my levels on day 9 were 8400.

E2 today - 13000 pmol

Predictably, my right ovary has fewer follicles than the left: 18mm, 16mm, 14mm, 12mm
Left ovary: 19mm, 18mm, 17mmx2, 16mm, 15mmx2, 12mm, 10mm

Around 12 follicles in total. The bigger ones look like they grew 1mm per day and the smaller ones grew at a rate of 2mm a day (pure guesswork and assumption; I'd be interested to know if the larger follicles grow more slowly once they've reached a certain size and the smaller ones grow more quickly, as that would make sense to the "letting them catch up" theory).

Everyone says my results are really good so far, and I'm pleased too - the sizes are fairly even, I assume we'll get around 10 eggs. Still. There are hurdles to overcome: maturity, hardness of shell, fertilization, division ... and always always - QUALITY.

Instructions: last sniff of Synarel tonight, no more Puregon, Ovidrel trigger at 9pm.

Updating teenage daughter's bedroom

2011-08-12T06:00:00.002+08:00

Not long after Rob moved in 4 years ago, we painted Ashlea's room pink. Well, she was 10 then, and pink seemed a nice option ...

Anyway, she's now 14, and it's time to update her room to reflect her teenage individualness. Obviously I let her choose the colour for her room, but used the offer with lots of "clean up your room" threats.

Unfortunately, her bedroom is quite small, and Ashlea being the girl that she is, is a bit of a collector. She has LOTS of stuff.

Renovation started when she decided she wanted a loft bed. We saw one advertised on Gumtree, but in your typical chicken-and-egg situation, couldn't really get it until we sold her current bed - an Ikea Bangsund bed which was a hand-me-down.

Then when the bed finally went, the renovators moved in immediately ...

Rob started painting the edges (which I'm very bad and slack at).

A mattress on the floor is the temporary option.

Next to go is the study desk and hutch - free on Gumtree. Couldn't be bothered to charge for it.

Fresh lime green is the colour of the day

I make her help me paint as I'm anxious to get everything over and done with on the weekend.

We try a bit of creativity - splashes of bright blue ...

Sitting down and painting her typical lazy way

Loft bed is moved in and assembled. She still has lots of junk.

Natural spiky stick hair

2011-08-10T06:00:00.003+08:00

I went over to my mum's for a trim recently. Mum used to do a wee bit of hair-dressing in her younger days, and it's convenient to get her to cut the kids' hair.

I think it's time I "outgrew" my mum's haircuts ... she simply couldn't replicate what I had done recently and this is one of my "never again" experiences to repeat.

This post is to demonstrate what sleeping with damp hair can do. Spiky hair el natural!
Yes, I actually came in to work with my hair like that.

I'm grinning but inside I'm crying.

8th IVF cycle - first impressions at Hollywood Fertility Clinic (part 1)

2011-08-08T06:00:00.002+08:00

It's a little bit unsettling to be doing IVF again, and at a new clinic. It's been more than 3 months since our last cycle, and I felt a little bit guilty at first, when I started looking around for another clinic.

We didn't have any problems being at Concept, even though it got quite busy at times and the waiting room was almost always packed. The coordinators were generally ok; some were better than others, some were a bit disorganised, and one in particular looked, talked and acted rather distant and disinterested. I think she was the one who upset me with our last result. Theatre nurses were really good, but ... I just didn't feel like our specialist was proactive enough.

Maybe I expected too much too soon? But, when at the end of each cycle, all you hear is a negative result from the coordinators, and then no discussion or feedback from your doctor, and nothing gets changed, I was extremely discouraged. I made an appointment specifically to speak to him at the end of last year, as I wanted to try the Colorado Protocol. 2 goes with that and nothing. Another email, asking about HGH (Human Growth Hormones, and mini-IVF) and his response was a bit stinging.

So here we are at Hollywood Fertility Clinic. They aren't too far from Concept, just 5 minutes drive. Loads of paperwork and blood tests have been retaken; we are even offered a test for cystic fibrosis.

We're starting off with a long-down cycle so I've been sniffing Synarel since day 21.

Comparisons start already: at Concept we were charged $114.40 for a bottle of Synarel, which the clinic provided directly, no script or anything. I fought tooth-and-nail with my private health fund (MBF) and Concept to try and claim the cost - very frustrating.

At Hollywood, I am given a script, the spray costs $93.50 from their pharmacy, and with the precious receipt, I claim $50 back from MBF without problems.

CD2 starts and we go in for a blood test and a scan. The scan checks for cysts, and also provides an antral follicle count. Again, this is new. We encountered a cyst in our second IVF last year, which is not good. Our antral follicle counts are 10-12 on each side. We're told that's good although not all of them will grow. I'm a bit bemused as I've never had the count done before, and I'm not sure how much of an indication that will be for egg numbers?

Trusty google tells me that ... "The number of antral follicles correlates well with ovarian response. A normal total antral count is between 15 and 30."

Posts on forums from people who even have their ovary size measured, to get total ovarian volume ... hey, where's mine??

Starting the cycle also means we pay them lots of money upfront - $6833. This is the first con I find in being at Hollywood - ivf fees are paid upfront, unlike Concept where you get billed after. Perhaps it's a good thing, as I'm always very very unhappy after a negative cycle, and having to pay thousands of dollars for a negative results is like getting your insides ripped out, eyes stabbed with blazing hot pokers, fingernails ripped out - not fun.

Hollywood's waiting room is much smaller than Concept's - I count about 12 chairs in the waiting room. At Concept, there was something like 30++. Rob and I are happy so far. We didn't wait too long - about 30 minutes from when we arrive to when we leave. Everyone is super-efficient, but still warm and friendly.

"Moving from Concept to Hollywood is like we’ve gone from shopping at Coles to shopping at David Jones...except not so expensive" - quote my husband.

With my FSH numbers at 6, and LH at 4, I'm advised to start Puregon 150iu tomorrow.

Jus Burgers

2011-08-05T06:00:00.032+08:00

Recently, some of my friends from volleyball decided to meet up for dinner. And a very well-thought out plan was executed.

An email was sent out, with suggestions on various food options such as tapas, Italian, or simple burgers. Everyone had to vote. We all voted for something simple and not too costly: burgers.

I had a look around for some reviews and found Cam and Chris's Burger Odyssey which has some good meaty and juicy stuff on the burger joints in Perth.

We finally agree on Jus Burgers in Subiaco..

I thought the location and vibe was really good - casual but slightly funky.

The burgers were certainly juicy and quite delicious, although there wasn't enough wasabi on the Wagyu Beef burger.

And, prepared as I was from the reviews, the portion of chips were minutely small ... definitely not enough for sharing! However, the onion rings were yummy!

Next stop was San Churro next door for coffee and churros ....
Churros, or Spanish doughnuts, are long, lightly deep-fried pastries made from a light flour and water batter.

And ... this is how much I don't get out much in Perth - this is the first time I've been to San Churro!

We had Churros for two (shared among 4!)

See other reviews cos I can't be bothered to write a proper review ;)

Mid-year school reports

2011-08-03T06:00:00.043+08:00

There's been constant changes and negotiations with the kids as they grow up. Pocket money, lunch money, school report money.

Chores, folding clothes, who does the mopping. I usually leave a note detailing one or two chores for each of them to do when they get home from school, such as taking the rubbish or compost out, and emptying the dishwasher. If they're home with me on the weekend, I heap more chores on them - mopping, vacuuming, pruning.

Computer access, internet time, tv access when Josh doesn't go to school.

It's tiring.

I started a school report pay-and-reward system a few years ago, with different payment amounts for different grades. And in trying to motivate Josh to study, and make it fair for his bright-and-motivated younger sister, it has cost me dearly.

After Josh's year 11 results at the end of last year, I still had some faint hope that he would be able to scrape by for TEE with some Stage 2 and 3 units. But alas, everything gets dropped to Stage 1 except for his Maths which he repeats at a Stage 2.

But not long after parent-teacher interviews, he decides to spit the dummy and ask why he has to repeat Maths, as it's pointless. I can see his rebellion is fueled by the stress of having to sit for the Maths exam; all Stage 2/3 units have exams which lead to TEE at the end of the year.

And I realise - yes, it is pointless. He got a C in Maths stage 2 last year, so really, it doesn't make any difference.

At the same time as the dummy spit, there are the usual days off from school. It coincides with our return from holidays. I stay home too, as I take a few days off sick. Will he even make it through the end of this semester?

The next week, Josh is back at school, and then, the week after, exams start. He only has one exam and so it's more or less a break as he does NO study. I am concerned that he might not even go for his exam but he does.

With a mark of 48 from his exam, he scrapes by with a C for Maths 2. Another C for Music. Bs in Outdoor Ed and Phys Ed. And ...... Amazingly .... an A for English (stage 1) and Career & Enterprise.

Ash comes home with 6 As and 2 Bs. Her Maths, Science, English and Japanese are strong as usual.

I cross my fingers: 4 more months of school left for my son and a pass in Year 12 is all I ask.

Magical estrogen growth rate formula

2011-08-01T06:00:00.000+08:00

In one of my crazed, obssessive, hormone-fueled IVF previous posts, I wrote about follicle sizes and monitoring estrogen levels. The study predicted the rise in estrogen levels (rapid estrogen growth rates EGRs) where

" ... EGRs of 0.31 to 0.41 were associated with optimal pregnancy rates. EGR is calculated by the formula:
EGR = e-B -1

where B is the slope of the least square line corresponding to the semilogarithmic plot of E2 values versus time and e = 2.718. "

At that time, I had no idea where to even start. But, diligent googling recently struck gold, with this particular forum post and the corresponding instructions to create a scatter chart in Excel:

"In Excel, first make a scatter chart. Do this by making 2 columns of numbers. The first column is stim day, which will be the x axis, then the second column or y axis is E2 levels. Highlight (select) the 2 columns and then click on insert chart, pick scatter, select the line with the dots. Now, there should be a graph.

Make the y-axis (E2 levels) logarithmic. Do this by clicking on the y axis in the graph to select it. While highlighted, right click and then format axis. Under axis option, click logarithmic scale. The line should become straight and the scale will show 1, 10, 100, 1000, 10000.

Now, we figure the slope of the line. Click on the data points in the graph, all of them should be highlighted, then right click and select add trendline. Under trendline options (trend/ regression type), click exponential. Before closing this menu, we need to display the equation and depending on what version of Excel you have, it may be on this menu (2007 version) or you have to click another tab (2003 version) and then click the button that says “display equation on chart”. The equation will look like this:
y=26.97e^0.361x

The slope is the negative number of the number before x. In this example, it is -0.361. I can't remember how to write "to the power", so I put it as ^.

Now, plug that number into the equation: 2.718^-(slope) – 1.
So on your calculator (the one sitting next to your computer), put in 2.718, press x^y button, then the slope 0.361 (two negatives make a positive, remember?) then -1. So with the example above, it is 1.43-1 = 0.43."

After a bit of mucking about (it seems like you have to keep adjusting the data sources for the chart, don't start chart from day 1 of stims. Instead, start the chart/data source from first day of blood test ... but don't include baseline levels ....? I usually charted from day 6. So my data source would start from day 6. If not, you may get errors about negative values and logarithmic values....)

It was really interesting as I plugged in values from the forum first, to make sure I got the right answers. I used an online Power (Exponential) calculator like this one.

It got even more interesting when I plugged in values for all our previous cycles. (I assumed that levels in picograms per milliliter or pico-moles per liter wouldn't make a difference, we use pmol in Australia).

Day 6            7        8       9             10        11       12          EGR
                          12600   14000      18700   25000                 .26
               2800                3500        4900    7100               .42
    610      1100   1000    1800       2300     4700   8000      .50
                           6700    8400      14000   13700                 .30
   1200     2500    2800     3900        7100     9500 13600     .47

I guess we have been pretty far off the magical bullet formula with the exception of the second last cycle.

Parenthood pause button

2011-07-29T06:00:00.004+08:00

As it so often happens, I was reading something, then got swept away in the currents of the internet ocean, to find myself at:

Martyr-hood: I think you're all fucked in the head!

Actually I blame Mark Zuckerberg - you know, the dork who founded Facebook. 3 or 4 clicks was all it took and I join another blogging mother in the search for answers on parenting.

It has been more than 10 years since my kids were toddlers - my son is 17, a tall young man and my daughter is 14 - she too, towers over me.

Physical analysis aside (and, as a mum, I'm often at them with personal hygiene questions like "Did you wash your face with the anti-pimple lotion today?" and "Your fingernails need CUTTING!" and, my all-time favourite - "Have your BRUSHED YOUR TEETH???!!!") ...

I don't pause often enough on their non-physical attributes.

So, as much as people (their teachers, family members and friends) tell me what they observe, as their mum, I feel like I may be biased.

My son is quiet, gentle and reserved. He has a dry sense of humour like his father. He's always polite, says please and thank you, does the things that I ask without having to be reminded. In his early teenage years, I noticed the introvert being a lot, it was difficult to ascertain which characteristics were the wicked work of hormones or even depression.

Today, at 17, we have seen occasional flashes of the lightbulb, I am slowly getting the confidence that there is a responsible young man slowly maturing under what was once a heaving grunting lump of flesh and skin. A couple more years, and I hope to see the colours of his being start to shine its brilliance.

The 14-year-old Daughter - has a few more moody years to get through. The door to her bedroom is always closed now, and she beats a path from bedroom to kitchen to lounge with her Macbook in her arms.

Some days, I barely get a mumble out of her, we drive silently in the car to volleyball together, she has her earplugs and music on, I am lost in my own thoughts. Then, after, she might tell me of her day, we talk about how training went, discuss her latest favourite music/singer as she bounces around in the car singing and crooning.

I don't think I'll see her again for a few more years.

Raising boys

2011-07-27T06:00:00.060+08:00

A few months ago, I attended a seminar by Celia Lashlie, author of "He'll Be OK: Growing Gorgeous Boys Into Good Men".

Her book was a tremendous help and comfort to me. I'd never really placed much weight on some of the parenting books I'd read; I found them and parenting seminars rather vague, wishy-washy, unhelpful, with obvious things like - set rules and boundaries.

I wasn't really sure how much I would get out of Celia's talk. I was already head over heels in trouble with my teenage son and my parenting, making the same mistakes, same troubles.

And I wasn't planning on taking any notes. Really, I mean - who takes notes at a parenting seminar? Turns out it was so good that I did.

Celia talked about 2 main issues with boys: Communication and Pragmatism

Communication
Women think and talk at the same time. We give far too much info but we're just thinking and talking through what we're going to do, and what's going to work.

Men think, then there's a (substantial) gap, then talk. If you ask them how they are, there'll be a 3-day gap.
We women don't do gaps/silence. We don't give them time to pause and think.

If we ask our son "How are you feeling?" and they don't answer, we then follow up with "Are you sad?"
and so they answer "Yes", cos that's the right answer and hopefully you'll stop asking questions.
They work on the premise that if they don't answer a question, the woman will answer it for them.

Boys will see if they can get through adolescence with just using "No" and "I dunno".

If she knew then what she knows now, her only regret was that she didn't laugh more with him. Laugh with him then tell him "You're an idiot, go away."

She talked about Year 9 being the most dangerous year. They've reached adolescence, they've suddenly spurted up and there is a mother's perception of them growing into a man -
"Ooh, isn't he tall, he's going to be such a handsome young man!". But he's still an idiot.

All the blood is leaving their head and going to their crotch. They are severely deoxygenated.

They're also DEAD LAZY. They won't walk around things, rather, they walk over them. She says she's grateful that the human body inflates lungs naturally. They have no idea of their physicallity, they will hit every boy they walk past.

Intuition - from a young age, boys are absorbing information. It sits there, in his gut but he doesn't do anything with it.

All of a sudden when they reach adolescence, we think we have to teach them all the 283 rules of life including sex. Let them be who they are, we don't have to teach them. Get them to know what they know.
Don't change their image. They have watched your actions. We don't have to teach them, rather, push them into what they know.

Says things like "We both know that was wrong, don't we?"

Get them to bring up their intuition with questions. Become really still. Say things like "I worry about you when ... I don't know where you are."
"What scares you?". "Do you have any dreams? Tell me sometime."

Get them to think about it, ask the question and walk away.

Build their EMOTIONAL CONFIDENCE - what is it? The ability to ask and answer .... (meaningful ??) questions.

Trust his intuition.

Pragmatism
Comes in many shapes. It's Effort vs Payout. Boys think - "How does this affect me?"

She tells of a conversation she had with a boy. "Do you plan?" - Nah
"Are you ever going to plan?" - Nah.
"So what are going to do?" - I'll be 25, some hot chick will come along with an awesome plan and I'll hook up with her!

Women are Crisis Merchants, and this leads to stress.

Boys will leave assignments right to the last minute, even the night before an assignment is due with the hope that the school may burn down.

We stress when, he's in Year 7, we want him to do the assignment well, cos if he doesn't ..... HE'S GOING TO BE 35 AND UNEMPLOYABLE!!!"

Know that it's normal, and there's nothing you can do.
On the night the assignment is due. go out, and get drunk.

He needs to learn through action and consequence. At 14 years old, he is the centre of his universe. It's all about ME. No logic.

He is highly intuitive, and he is really lazy.

The battle, if you choose to fight it, has to have a consequence. Give him a reason.
Take stuff away, give him something, give him a reason.
This is guerilla warfare - have some fun.
Don't be preoccupied with his pragmatism but give him a reason.
Get inside the pragmatism - ACTION and CONSEQUENCE. Be prepared to see through the consequence.

We need to allow them to be who they are. It hurts to raise a boy. They will start to push back and take a step away. We need to trust him.

In order to be a man, he needs to let go. Trust that he will come back. Let him go. Trust yourself. He's your son, you know him.
Trust him.

Men - need to stand up in the lives of your boys. Be a good man. He needs to fulfill his own dream. Find out who he is and walk with him.
Fathers are emotionally absent.
Stepfathers - leave that gap, the father has to be in the picture.

Walking towards the bridge of adolescence - initally, she said that mothers shouldn't be on the bridge, fathers should be.

Some responses she got from fathers on mothers and their role:
- mine should be the bloody troll under the bridge
- where's the mother? Walking along the side and meet at the other end
Nah, that won't work. She'll be yelling instructions from the side!

She now says, go on the bridge. Stay off to the side and occasionally get down and play. Let the men be the prime movers. Let go of his hand.

Consistency in parenting - work out what are the non-negotiables in your house. The rest can be negotiated. At the beginning of each year, review this.
Say "We are the parents and we can parent eah child differently because you are both different."

Relax and let them find their emotional boundaries, to increase the chance that they will grown from the gorgeous boys that they are, to be the potential good men that they can be.

- Celia Lashlie

Wow. Rereading my notes now, I am amazed. At the simplicity, yet deep and full of insight and humour. Each word, making sense. Each sentence, connecting the dots, and then, solutions.

I think I need to read this every morning when I wake up, and again when I come home from work. I'm grateful for having heard Celia speak. She was a much better speaker than I expected, very natural, down to earth and very funny.

I'd noticed a teenager sitting slouched between his parents (presumably), and on more than one occasion when the whole room was shaking with laughter, I glanced over at him. Nothing. No expression, no smile, just a rather grim look on his face.

It seemed the perfect contrast, an abyss of lost communication between parents and their teenagers.

3rd fertility clinic

2011-07-25T06:00:00.003+08:00

After more than 3 years of trying to conceive, we are also moving on to our third fertility clinic.

In 2009, we tried IUI at a clinic down south. Even though the clinic itself and the nurses were great, we didn't really connect with the specialist. He was a bit ... frustrating to get information from, and didn't really explain what was going on very well.

Plus, they were also more expensive when it came to IVF. So we decided to shop around for another IVF clinic.

So in 2010, we moved to Concept, it felt like a big step many ways. Big procedure. Bigger clinic. It felt a little bit like " ...going from the corner deli to Woolworths (a big, national chain of grocery shops)."

Again, I find the nurses (especially the theatre nurses) to be good. No complaints really. Nothing better or worse to compare against either.

However. After 7 failed cycles (5 fresh, 2 frozen), we weren't getting any feedback from our specialist. He made one change in protocol, and didn't really seem to offer anything new. Very little feedback on anything, what was good, what was working, what wasn't. I pushed for more info and change, and his response wasn't exactly encouraging.

So I thought it wouldn't hurt to get a second opinion.

So many clinics, how to choose? I trolled a few forums, and decided to try Hollywood Fertility Clinic. I've had my appointment with the specialist, Rob has had his SCSA test, and we've attended a nurse-coordinator meeting to discuss fees.

The saga continues.

Dishwasher-cat

2011-07-22T15:08:00.002+08:00

Meet Theodore, our backup dishwasher ...

My daughter and her Year 9 achievements

2011-07-20T06:00:00.016+08:00

Ashlea has been working away and quietly achieving ... stuff.

She doesn't tell me a lot of detail these days, but she made the interschool swimming team and Year 9 committee again.

She also tried out for the school volleyball team and got in. Her volleyball skills are improving, in particular her overarm serve. Last year was all underarm serving, this year she has progressed to serving overarm pretty consistently. I watched one of her games where I thought her serving was actually pretty darn awesome, deep and float down to 5.

At the UWA tryouts earlier this year, Ash was put into the Div 3 team. At first, I was really happy, but I also wasn't sure; she hadn't been playing that long and was in Div 4 last year. But now, looking at the teams in the different divisions, I think it was a good call. No bias here, hopefully ....

She's still working part-time at a food outlet, seems pretty happy and keen so far.

Still not really eating breakfast, and doesn't like sandwiches but will go for a wrap with avocado.

She has inherited my organising skills with Halloween parties, and for the last few years, I just told her to organise her own birthday parties.

Helping me with my 40th birthday pool party last year, she also organised a surprise "Survivor" birthday party for me this year, and now all her parties for her friends have pool games and plenty of mess.

Gradual increase in self-consciousness and interest in clothes, hair and general appearance.

She reluctantly mops the floor with one hand ... and paints her walls sitting down.

Her bedroom door is always closed now, I guess I won't see her again until she turns 18.

Fertility specialist - third opinion!

2011-07-18T06:00:00.025+08:00

A few months ago, I went to see a new fertility specialist. I'd been with the old one, Dr. G for about a year now. I didn't really feel like we were making any progress.

It was quite an interesting first appointment. At first, I was a bit reserved, but then threw caution at the wind, and asked him a lot of things which were on my mind:

Colorado protocol, HGH (Human Growth Hormones), mini-IVF.

He was very patient, honest, and easier to talk to. One recommendation that we decided to follow up on was a sperm analysis (SCSA test). Deterioration of "good looking" embryos from day 3 to day 5 can sometimes be a result of sperm chromosome fragmentation.

I'm sure it's not Rob's sperm, but it would be good to know. We start throwing money at labs ...

At a total cost of $390, we only get back $158 from Medicare.

Dr.P also mentions aneuploidy and PGD. The latter costs an absolute bomb as the embryos have to be flown to Sydney, then frozen, and transplanted later.

When aneuploidy involves the larger chromosomes, the embryo may not attach to the wall of the uterus or may stop developing soon after attaching and miscarry. However, if the aneuploidy involves chromosomes such as the 13, 18, 21, X or Y, the pregnancy may still carry on until birth, even though the pregnancy has a chromosomal disorder. The most common of these is an extra number 21, known as Down syndrome or trisomy 21 (three 21 chromosomes). Other common aneuploidies are Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), trisomy 13, and trisomy 18.

The features of the chromosome condition depend upon which chromosome is extra or missing, but can include physical differences and mental retardation.

The cost of PGD is too much, and I shudder to think of even more intervention in our attempts to have a baby.

I am quite realistic about my age and chances of conceiving, but it doesn't stop me from trying. The one thing that sways me over to trying with this new clinic is that they do ultrasound-guided transfers. I remember asking Dr.G why Concept didn't do this.

His reply was that there was no proof it improved implantation, that it was more uncomfortable for women (need to maintain a full bladder) and that he was good enough to know what he was doing ...

A study shows that - "Ultrasound-guided embryo transfer maximizes the IVF results on day 3 and day 4 embryo transfer but has no impact on day 5."

The other thing that swayed me, was that Dr.P said to me - "I'm very sorry that you've had go through 5 IVF (cycles)".

It may have just been "salesman" talk, but it helped enormously to have that empathy and understanding. I just hope that my first impression of him doesn't change.

Go outside and play, damnit!

2011-07-15T06:00:00.002+08:00

My life with my teenage son. Summed up.

Shopping, food and therapy

2011-07-13T06:00:00.006+08:00

We'd had a bad few weeks with Josh, and the first day back at school after exam-break was another bad day.

I'd been carrying that monkey of dread on my back the whole morning, googling for "army reserves" and trying to convince myself that it would be good for Josh.

Remember my battle with MBF last year about claiming Synarel?? At lunchtime, I went in, hopefully clutching my receipt from the pharmacy.

and THEY PAID IT!! $50!!! Woo hoo!!!

Then, I went to Woolies to get some bread, some sliced meat from the deli and an avocado. I was almost finished when they announced a produce clearance; you could fill up a bag with fruit and vegies from the rack at the front, for $3 ... as long as you could tie the bag up.

I got a bagful of fruit for $3!!! Absolutely bargain! Bananas! Apples! Avocados!! My bag was starting to split at the top, so I quickly tied it up.

Still, I got SIX bananas, 6 apples, 2 mandarins, 3 avocados and a handful of brocolli ;) I haven't tasted that nasty squashy yellow thing called bananas since they've been at over $12 a kg, because of the substantial crop damage caused by Cyclone Yasi.

For a little while at least, my mood lifted.

More blood tests

2011-07-11T06:00:00.004+08:00

With our 3rd/latest/current fertility clinic, we are ordered to undergo a whole new raft of blood tests before we start IVF:

For the man - TPHA, RPR, FSH, LH (hello! men have FSH and LH too!), Testosterone, prolactin

For the woman, : TFT, TPHA, RPR,CA 125, TPO, Chromosomes, Androgens, Coagulation Profile.

I am thrilled and jump immediately on a computer to find out what they mean.

TFT - Thyroid Function Test. Checks thyroid levels

TPO - Thyroid peroxidase or thyroperoxidase. as above.

TPHA - Treponema pallidum subspecies pallidum - tests for syphilis!

Also related to the above, RPR - Rapid Plasma Reagin

CA 125 - California State Route 125

No ... it's actually - cancer antigen 125 or carbohydrate antigen 125 and is a marker for specific types of cancers, as well as endometriosis.

Chromosome analysis - a test that can be performed to determine the number, order, and shape of chromosomes in an organism. Also called a karyotype, a chromosomal analysis can be used to see if your chromosomes are playing a role in your infertility.

For anyone interested, here are the Reference Ranges for blood tests. Reading it reminds me of chemistry during the last year of highschool ;)

After having 14 vials of blood drawn at a single blood test, at the beginning of infertility treatment and numerous blood tests almost every month for the last 2 years, I am an old, old hand at blood tests. This time, only 7 vials of blood are drawn. Rob gives 5 vials of blood.

Hopefully, all the ticks and crosses will make a difference.

Words with Friends

2011-07-08T06:00:00.014+08:00

Got an iPhone3 earlier this year ... Other than a much nicer interface for viewing text messages and being able to take photos, I didn't really put it in my "Awesome" category.

Then, we went away on holiday. And I discovered Words with Friends. What's that, online Scrabble?? Pfffttt. Ok, I gave it a go.

Free internet access in cafes, hotels and B&Bs were a boon, as, after checking mail and not getting any love sent my way, I would just stare at the screen, conjuring up words in my mind.

How hard can it be, right. Just make some words up and down, left to right. Fun, and easy. Then it got serious. Silently whooping as I scored over 40 points for a word, I also lost games by over 100 points.

"PELF???? What the hell does that mean??"

"ZED?? OMG, are you SERIOUS??!!"

I started trying random letters together to see if they even made a word, cursing when "Sorry, that is not an acceptable word" came up.

Back from holidays, hard at work. And I thought I'd check out the actual rules through Google. Strategies, defensive play, memorizing 2-letter words ... it was getting serious.

(I also learnt a neat trick with the iPhone - you can take a screenshot of what's currently displayed. To do so, just press the top power button and the home button simultaneously. This will place a screenshot of your
iPhone display in your camera roll)

Lately, I had been getting "Repairing ... please wait" every time I open the app. It's SO annoying. I tried to delete and download again, but that didn't fix it. So I succumbed and paid $2 for it.

Short and shorter haircut

2011-07-06T06:00:00.001+08:00

I've changed my hair quite a bit recently. Maybe it's something about being over-40.

From a poodle-perm at the end of the year, to chopping it all off haircut just before leaving for holidays in the UK. 3 weeks away and it grew out ... not a pretty sight.

I was sooo ready for another haircut when I got back! Before:

After! With the new radically shorter cut I'd promised myself .... love it!

Day 3 vs Day 5 (blast) transfer

2011-07-04T06:00:00.006+08:00

Rob and I have been discussing Day 3 vs Day 5 embryo transfer. Our previous clinic has a preferred SET (Single Embryo Transfer) policy. Each time we have asked to transfer 2 blastocysts, Dr.G tch-tchs but allows us to go ahead anyway.

According to http://www.advancedfertility.com/blastocystmultiples.htm, the American Society for Reproductice Medicine published guidelines in 2009 on the appropriate maximum number of embryos to transfer:-

The ASRM guidelines suggest a maximum number of embryos to transfer based on the day of transfer (cleavage stage vs. blast), "prognosis category" (favorable vs. all others) and female age.

Maximum Number of Embryos to Transfer Cleavage-stage Embryos (day 2 or day 3 ET)
	Age < 35	Age 35-37	Age 38-40	Age > 40
Favorable Prognosis	1-2	2	3	5
All others	2	3	4	5

Maximum Number of Embryos to Transfer Blastocyst Embryos (day 5 or day 6 ET)
	Age < 35	Age 35-37	Age 38-40	Age > 40
Favorable Prognosis	1	2	2	3
All others	2	2	3	3

The ASRM identifies the following characteristics as being associated with a "more favorable prognosis":

First cycle of IVF
Good embryo quality by morphology grading criteria
Excess embryos available for freezing
Having a previous successful IVF cycle

That means that if we were doing IVF in the US, we would be allowed to transfer up to 5 (day 3) embryos and up to 3 (day 5) embryos.

We've read lots on the pros of day 5 (blastocyst) transfer - improved culture quality, optimum uterine environment, risk of multiples ... but nothing on the pros of day 3 transfer except for this:

A paper written in 2000 (http://humrep.oxfordjournals.org/content/15/9/1947.full) states that:

Embryo quality on day 3 did not have any influence on pregnancy and implantation rates of day 3 transfers.

On the contrary, in day 5 transfers both pregnancy and implantation rates were significantly lower when there was no good embryo on day 3 as compared to when at least one good embryo was available. Lack of good quality embryos on day 3 resulted in no pregnancy for day 5 transfer versus 33% pregnancy for day 3 transfers in our study.

The number of 8-cell embryos on day 3 did not have any impact on pregnancy and implantation rates in either group. ....... Racowsky et al. (1999) reported that the number of 8-cell embryos could be a determining factor for the optimal day of transfer.

Interestingly, lack of 8-cell embryos on day 3 resulted in no pregnancy for day 5 transfer versus 33% pregnancy for day 3 transfers (Racowsky et al., 1999). These results in combination with ours strongly suggest that some suboptimal quality embryos may be rescued in the uterine environment and that extended culture might be a cause of arrest for further development of such embryos.

We are well aware of my age (41) and that less embryos are making it to blastocyst. It may be time to consider day 3 transfers, or transferring more embryos.

Loving the English countryside

2011-07-01T06:00:00.026+08:00

On the first day of our UK holiday, we're driving up north from London and I post this update on my Facebook status:

Loving the English countryside!

Surrounded by fields of yellow rapeseed (Brassica napus, also known as oilseed rape, the edible variety as canola), I have been captivated by the gentle grace and beauty of England's countryside.

The gentle rolling hills of green are a stark contrast to the dry Australian bush.

England has the loveliest countryside - "Loveliness belongs not only to the countryside but also to the buildings that go with it - viscerally pretty villages, farmsteads, manor houses and market towns."

The richness in its history lends a depth to the buildings, numerous pubs and traditional cottages built of stone, something which is missing in Australia. As we walk through nearby woods and forests, we catch sight of wild rabbits, sheep and lambs up in Wales, badger holes, a fox at the edge of the forest, blending into the night.

I have to remind myself again and again of the cold, grey and dreary winters they face, the perfect spring days we have in Perth, brilliant sunshine awash on our perfect beaches.

There is lots to see and do outdoors; forests to walk, castles to explore ...

Detour to Anglesey

2011-06-29T06:00:00.019+08:00

Almost at the end of our holiday. We drop the mum and brother off at Bangor for the train and head on to the A55 for Colwyn.

I close my eyes as my head is still heavy with a cold and my nose is blocked. 30 minutes later, we drive over a bridge and through a town. Then Rob slows down as the A55 ends at a port.

Puzzled, we look at the map and think, maybe the A55 isn't finished across Cony to the Llandudno junction. There looks like a road to cross further down, but we decide to try the ferry option for fun.
I glance across the other lanes, some marked for "Dublin" and then the name of the port - Port Holyhead - and something niggles at me.

I check the map again, and there, to the very left, is Port Holyhead, on the island of Anglesey - in the very opposite direction of where we should be!

This is where Prince William and Kate are to make their home, and we are a ferry ride away from Ireland.

It's a funny situation and luckily, we're not committed to a time or place, just a stopover at Tamworth before Stansted.

Meeting up with old friend and volleyballer - Euan at Tamworth

We pass more funny names - Abergwyngregyn, Llanfairfedhan, Penmaenmawr, Dwygyfylchi

Llanberis, Wales and climbing Mt.Snowdon

2011-06-27T06:00:00.038+08:00

From Salisbury, it's a 7 hour drive to Llanberis, Wales. As we cross the border at Chirk into Wales, the names suddenly become unintelligible: Llanfihangel-yng Llansantffraid-ym-Mechaim, Rhosllanerchrugog, Ngwynfa

Welsh is one of the oldest living languages in Europe and is closely related to the other Celtic languages - Cornish, Breton and Gaelic. Some of the town names are actually very pretty as they translate literally into countryside, and if you manage to learn how to pronounce them properly!

For example: Myndd means Mountain, Llyn is Lake, Llannerch is Glade, Dyffrn is Vale, Glyn is Dell.

So, Rhosllanerchrugog literally translated comes from the Welsh: rhos "moor"; llannerch "glade"; grugog "heathery" hence "Moor of the Heathery Glade".

We stayed for 3 nights at a youth hostel, £48 a night for double room with ensuite. The room was a wee bit small and basic. It's been a while since we've had to cook for ourselves and we shopped for rations on the way: eggs, bread, scones, canned meat and the very best of Britain:

The English love their all-day breakfast and they even have it for dinner! I love the breakfast in a can, only thing is I can't seem to find it here in Perth ... will need to start campaigning Heinz or Watties methinks.

Rob's mum and brother joined us for 2 nights and added some interest to our stay in the rather quiet one-street town. Our double bed actually had a single bunk bed attached overhead, so we let his brother stay in our room to save a few pounds. Rob then had to fill in a form and send it off to the head office for a refund.

With 4 personalities to cater for meals, transport as well as shuffling around each other in the room, we were glad that it was getting towards the end of our holiday, and I had also come down with a cold.

Even what clothes to wear during the climb became an issue!

After some debate between Rob and his mum, who wanted me to try some of her short pants, I decided against wearing jeans. My 3/4 tights were just right for the climb - comfy and stretchy. Jeans would have been heavy, hot and uncomfortable.

Snowdon (Welsh: Yr Wyddfa, pronounced [əɾ ˈwɪðva]) is the highest mountain in Wales, at an altitude of 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) above sea level, and the highest point in the British Isles outside Scotland. It is located in Snowdonia National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri) in Gwynedd, and has been described as "probably the busiest mountain in Britain".^{(from Wikipedia)}

When we climbed Ben Nevis in 2006, it seemed to take forever to get to the top. In reality, Ben Nevis is only 300m higher than Snowdon, and only took an hour more to get to the summit.

(Scottish Gaelic: Beinn Nibheis, pronounced [peˈɲivəʃ]) is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom and the whole of the British Isles.

Climbing Snowdon (3 hours up, 3 hours down) was different though, as there were only 2 steep bits and the path isn't as rocky as Ben Nevis.

Don't be fooled by the fact that Rob's (69-year-old) mum climbed it, and that we did it fairly easily in 6 hours all up; Snowdon was used by Edmund Hillary and his group during preparations for their successful 1953 expedition to climb Mount Everest.

At the start of the path and we're lost already!

There are different routes with varying difficulty, and we probably took the Llanberis Path as it was fairly easy and has the shallowest gradient.

Climbing, climbing, climbing ...

Looking back at how far we're come ...

Rob shows his lean, tanned body ...

We make it to the top! It's crowded and we take the obligatory "made it to the top" photo

Aaah, I'm king of the mountain!

Other people?? Where??!!

I've got the resolution on my camera set to small (300k) to save me time resizing the photos for my blog ...

Which is bad when I get nice photos like these which I would like to enlarge!!!

Weather alternated between being very nice and sunny, to sudden winds with a chilly bite. So my jacket went on and off several times throughout the walk.

The Snowdon Mountain Railway also runs dependant on weather. With a cafe at the top, the train seemed a popular choice as it was chugging-full whenever it passed us.

Salisbury

2011-06-24T06:00:00.146+08:00

We stay in Portsmouth for 3 days; a couple of nights with Rob's mum, and a night at his dad's apartment. We pay a visit to Rob's 88-year old aunt Audrey, who looks FANTASTIC for her age - immaculate in stockings and skirt. She was very direct and had a good sense of humour.

Rob's dad takes us to visit Porchester Castle from Roman times 450 AD

Drove to Salisbury (an hour) for a family lunch to celebrate Audrey's birthday and meet with Rob's dad's side of the family: Allan (older brother), Nikki (Allan's wife), Mike (deceased sister Margaret's stepson), Mary (Mike's wife), Georgia (Margaret's daughter), Bob (Georgia's hubby), Annette (Margaret's daughter), Andy (Annette's hubby), Adam (Annette's son).

Accomodation for the night is at The Cathedral View B&B - comfy big bed, spotless and cosy. We met up with my cousin Tiff's boyfriend's dad, Colin who drove down from Yeovil to see us.

After a yummy breakfast, we visit the Salisbury Cathedral which isn't far from our B&B.

The Salisbury Cathedral is very picturesque, its arches remind me of my old convent school in KL - Convent Bukit Nanas.

There were lots to see inside, mainly effigies and tombs. We saw the Magna Carta, the Chapter House in the cathedral has the best-preserved of the four surviving original copies of Magna Carta:

No free man shall be seized or imprisoned, or stripped of his rights or possessions, or outlawed or exiled. Nor will we proceed with force against him except by the lawful judgement of his equals or by the law of the land. To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice.

Isle of Wight

2011-06-22T08:00:00.027+08:00

From south of London, we head further down south to visit Rob's parents in Portsmouth, only stopping briefly to pick his mum up before heading over to the Isle of Wight.

In terms of area, you could fit Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland into Australia 31 times and still have a bit left over.

Population wise, Australia is not very densely populated with only 2.6 people per square kilometre, the result of having a population of just 20.6 million.

By comparison, the UK population density is 243 people per square kilometre thanks to its 60 million strong population count.

The huge population and density in the UK shows in the transportation system - motorways are almost always full of traffic, tubes are the lifeline in London city; elsewhere there are trains running all across the country.

Transportation is reliable, regular, convenient and expensive in the UK - ok, that's only from my "3-weeks tourist" point of view. But compared to Perth in Australia, it's fabulous!

At Portsmouth, we buy tickets for the car ferry (£71) and queue for the ferry which runs every 30 minutes. There are people who direct you to the correct lane depending on if you have a prior reservation, if not, you're in the "wait-list" queue.

The ferry is large, lots of comfortable chairs and a cafe for the usual coffee and tea. We're on the fast ferry and it only takes about 35minutes for the crossing.

The Isle of Wight is approximately diamond-shaped and covers an area of 380 km². For some reason, I thought it would be a little small island, similar to Perth's Rottnest Island ... but that's only 19km²!! The island is quite big, and would take about 2 hours to drive around the coastline.

We stayed at a lovely B&B - The Hoo at Totland Bay, in the south-west corner of the island. Cost is £60-76 depending on season and length of stay.

The B&B was charming, cosy, homey. We had a spacious king-sized bed with ensuite. After our room in Thirsk, it was a pleasure to have a large room, sofa, dressing table, small bar fridge, tea & coffee facilities.

Breakfast was scrumptious - full English breakfast, which I found too much: 2 eggs, 3 rashers of bacon, sausage, mushrooms, baked beans and grilled tomato. There was also a choice of poached, scrambled, boiled eggs, and you help yourself to cereal, fruit, tea, coffee, juice.

Rob's brother joined us for a day and we do lots of walking, from Totland to Alum Bay

The beach at Alum Bay is totally cool ... and totally covered with big smooth pebbles!

I'm bored with lying on the pebbles, so I walk down to the water gingerly in bare feet ... then decide to do some stretching ...

The Isle of Wight, although just a small island, is famously known as "Dinosaur Island", being the most richest place in the UK for Dinosaurs, and home to a handful of new species. It is often featured on the TV with a host of various documentaries. Apart from Dinosaurs, the Isle of Wight has a remarkable diversity spanning the whole of the Cretaceous period.

Rob's brother finds me a "fossil", however, I have no idea if it is .... I'm excited all the same!

Brothers posing nicely (but oh so boring) so I ask them to do something ...

The scenery is quite gorgeous as we walk up to Tennyson Down

We catch a bus for our return trip and find it rather expensive, something like £3 each for a short 15-minute journey.

On our last day, we checked out at 11am and just down the road, decided to try a horse ride

An hour and £25 later, I end up with an extremely sore bum! I blame it on my jeans and cheap underwear.

There are some gorgeous English springer spaniels, with gentle laidback natures. They reminded me a bit of the Croatian hunting dogs.

You can tell I wanted to take them home!!!

Lunch at OXO Brasserie, London

2011-06-20T06:00:00.017+08:00

We met up with Rob's parents and brother to celebrate his dad's 80th birthday at the Oxo Brasserie. It's in a great location, set up high in the Oxo Tower overlooking the Thames River.

Food was nice - a bit pricey, but .....

Rob's dad

Rob and his brother

Wives are on the wrong side!