Getting Ready

Words

2009-03-30T13:14:00.002+02:00

On Friday, Ben, Jem and some fo their friends got invited to do a photo shoot for literacy week, something to do with the release of a new dictionary.

The idea was that they wanted kids to paly with the giant size words, 'climb', 'rest' and 'decrepit'.

Here are some of the mum's shots of the whole event . . .

(Ben's in the 'B' with Jesse)

I think they need to submit the photos for the final ad campagin, if they get chosen, you might be seeing a bit more of my kids . . .

2009-03-24T13:06:00.002+02:00

Ben was chatting to us this morning and was experimenting with one of his new words, 'consequences'.

Ben: I'm talking about consequences!

Dad: Do you know what consequences are?

Ben: Um . . .yes . . .

Dad: It's what happens afterwards.

Ben: Yes! Like when I'm naughty, I get a smack.

Dad: That's it.

Ben: But Daddy, remember, God uses bad for good!

(We have recently been looking at the story of Joseph and how men intended things to harm him, but God used the situation for good)

Classic - How do we get from talking about the consequences of our sinfulness to taking the pressure right off because God's in control?!

Epilogue:

My wife, being the insightful women that she is had this debrief.

Hayley: Isn't it interesting that Paul was astute enough to write about this attitude we see in our boy? 'Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!' (Rom 6:1)

Keep on praying for our family that grace may increase without the sin bit coming first.

Movie Night!

2009-03-21T00:29:00.002+02:00

About 4 weeks ago, we started the Friday night family movie night tradtition.

It rocks - after bath, we get the popcorn popp'n and snuggle the four of us on the couch, and let the magic happen.

Below are a few of the titles we have tried so far, but best by a country mile is Curious George (above).

Cute script and great tunes from Jack Johnson make it a winner.

Needless to say the debrief the next day with Benny is usually petty funny, as he tries to untangle the story - in fact, it's one of the favourite parts.

(By the way, give the adventures of Toby a miss, unless you like to see Jesus as a 20 year old 'dude' with a goatee)

1.5km of Glory

2009-03-09T23:44:00.003+02:00

A couple of weeks ago, Ben threw his hat in the ring for a 1.5km kiddies bike race, on the eve of the big Cape Town Argus Cycle Tour. Here's how it panned out . . .

The day ended in glory!

The start was a jostle of parents all looking for pole position for their kids (I was no different)

Crusing speed was good

The drinks stop was a very serious affair

And by the time we hit he finish line, he was pretty much spent

But the medal shines bright

Proffesional cyclists make some serious cash, don't they . . . .?!

The 'behind the tree' house

2009-02-21T20:32:00.003+02:00

Behind this tree, is a secret place.

Sometimes, you think you hear things

Other times, it's pretty clear who is making the noise

But when you come back out into the sun, it's a normal tree again

A Conversation on Prayer

2009-01-26T20:52:00.002+02:00

Ben and I had this chat a few days ago.
We were playing in the backyard and it was really windy.

Ben: (To the wind) Stop it Stop it!

Scott: Um, I'm not sure that it will make much difference mate. God is the one who controls the wind.

Ben: Then we should ask God to make the wind stop!

Scott: OK, why don't you ask God to - go ahead and pray.

Ben: Dear God, please make the windy stop now . . . Amen.

[Both wait and look at the trees - the wind still howls]

Scott: Did God answer your prayer?

Ben: No.

Scott: Actually mate, He did. He said, 'No, I want the wind to keep on blowing.'

Ben: But why?

Scott: I'm not sue, maybe there are people trying to fly kites, or perhaps someone is hot and needs to cool down.

Ben: So God didn't want to stop the wind, but he could have!

Now, I admit, the flying kites bit was pretty lame, but it turned out to be one of the more constructive chats we've had. (We actually have lots of chats about God and Jesus, but not all of them end so well :))

We're back

2009-01-17T13:20:00.002+02:00

Well, we are back in CT. It's good. It's inevitable. But it's also taking a while to get back into the swing of things. And if you know what that's like, it can be tough.

But the kids are powering on,despite talking about Australia and Nanny and Poppy a lot. This morning they decided to have a little sleep in together . . .

To break some of the 'we're not on holiday any more' ice, Hayley went and got them a blackboard, which was a big hit . . .

But we're already planning he next holiday. . .

Oops

2008-12-28T05:41:00.002+02:00

Sorry about the photos - or lack thereof.

Best thing to do is to check out me on Facebook - I've got an album called 'Sydney 08'.

That's where the action is for now.

Sydney Holiday

2008-12-23T23:41:00.002+02:00

Before we headed off down the south coast for our holiday within a holiday, there were a few more things to do . . . .

There is no story behind this shot - it's just a very orange Jemma.

Craig has been visiting a men's shelter in the inner city lately, looking after one of the guys there, taking him out, just being a friend to him really. Since it's Christmas time, he whipped up some shortbread as a Chrissy treat, and Ben lent a hand.

Jem was struggling a bit with some seriously dry skin, so we resorted to a SA special - the Rooibos bath. It worked a treat. And yes, the kids drank it too.

It's a monster!

2008-11-23T14:32:00.002+02:00

If you are a fan of Toy Story, you will remember the villian of a kid next door who captures the toy and conducts experiements on them, transforming them into horrible mutants.

Well, what is a mutant to some is art to anther . . .

Kilian's B'day

2008-11-23T14:19:00.003+02:00

Again, playing some catchup . . .

Kilian's b'day was a few weeks ago and they went to Cymbodium Farm in Constantia for the morning.

We discovered tortoises really really like watermelon.

Ben and Stella (soon to be married :)) make sure nothing gets in the way of their blossoming romance . . .

Ahhh . . . that's better.

Tractor ride!

Bunny time.

The Farm

2008-11-23T14:06:00.002+02:00

Life has been busy, so the blog gets neglected.

Such is life.

So here is a bit of a catch up - a morning at Imhoff Farm. . .

(from 2 months ago!)

Here is the view from the farm . . .

The face off . . .

Jem staring down the same goat

Moments before take off . . .

Camel boy

The J Factor

2008-10-22T14:01:00.000+02:00

Thought you might appreciate a bit of J time.

She finds food pretty exciting - but it's always better when it is smeared through her hair. Here she is sporting the roast chicken and veggie treatment.

So bath time is really really important.

Can you guess which are the last teeth to come through?

But it's not long before she is right back into the . . . chocolate cake.

The sun has arrived!

2008-10-20T20:51:00.002+02:00

Finally, a day to get to the beach.

Saturday was toasty, so we head down to Fish Hoek to catch some waves (or eat some sand, as it turned out).

We also happened upon some coffee tasting at the local shops which is just the sort of extra bling that makes a trip out worth the hike.

Good times.

Keep Walking

2008-10-01T19:23:00.002+02:00

Well, the time has come!

First footage of the first day of walking.

She is now mobile and zippy!

We pray that she walks the way of Psalm 1

Enjoy!

The Rocks

2008-08-26T16:25:00.003+02:00

This is part of a journal I am keeping for Ben.
I wanted to make this one an ‘open entry’

Today Meryl and Richardt took you down to the Waterfront to go visit the Scratch Patch. It was on the cards for a few days and you had been looking forward to it. They took you and Jemma down and apparently both of you were just perfect for them.

But at the Scratch patch you get to bring home a little bag of rocks from the massive ‘patch’. You were very proud of them and liked to pack and repack them – you would also give out a rock or two to ’special people’ as a special gift.

Now, I was over at Senior Youth tonight, but Hayley told me that she saw you going into our bedroom talking to yourself just before your bath. She quietly followed you in. You were talking about how you wanted to give mummy and daddy some rocks. You counted out about 6 or so and put them under my pillow, carefully putting it back afterwards.

“This is for mummy and daddy” you told yourself quietly.

You never made a big deal of it, or even mentioned it to us at all.

When we found the stones, it was so beautiful, I actually took a picture or 2 of the whole set up. I was so overwhelmed by your thoughtfulness and other person centeredness. Overwhelmed, but I’m proud to say, not surprised. Make sure you never lose the joy you obviously get from looking out for the needs of others. And continue to do it with initiative and creativity. We won’t be the only ones who love you for it.

Philippians Ch 2:6-13

3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

6Who, being in very nature[a] God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7but made himself nothing, taking the very nature[b

] of a servant, being made in human likeness.

8And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross!

9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

PARTY 2

2008-08-20T14:54:00.000+02:00

He needed help with this one. (It was lego)

The train set from mum and dad. There is no school like the old school (Isn't that right J-man?)

We made 'Aslan' party hats. With a little help.

Never, never leave a 3 year old alone with a stapler.

At the end of a long party, there is nothing like crashing out in front of a DVD

PARTY! Part 1

2008-08-20T12:16:00.000+02:00

This shot was taken EXACTLY 3 years after Ben was born - like, to the minute!

Uncle Craig's drill - I think this arvo we will go for a trip to the hardware store

Dd came bearing gifts . . .

At the party there we had an egg and spoon race (hardboiled). They first got to design their racing eggs.

Jemma had some time with Becky - a bit of something just for the girls . . .

A bit of time for the girl . . . .

2008-08-07T22:08:00.002+02:00

Now that she is one, Jem deserves some limelight apart from her brother.

She decided to celebrate it by eating some dirt . . .

But she is still so very beautiful (especially in sepia!)

And knows a good joke when she hears one!

Brother and Sister

2008-07-15T10:00:00.000+02:00

Yesterday was Jemma's first b'day, well done little girl!

We kept it pretty low key but are very thankful for the little one God has given us and how he has kept both her and us through this first year.

One of the joys of late has been to see how much love there is between Ben and Jem. They really get on well, and Ben is very caring.

What's better than making it to 12 months in one piece?
Having an awesome brother to look after you along the way!

The duck

2008-07-04T17:54:00.003+02:00

This little guy is like nothing I've eve seen before.

He was a gift to Ben from Meryl's mum- she picked it up in Dubai.

I'm kind of at a lost for words, but you might have something to say about the duck?

Story Time and the Terminator

2008-06-05T00:37:00.003+02:00

One good thing about the CT winters is story time by the fire. Actually, scratch that. It's first making the fires - which Ben is already pretty good at - and then reading the stories front and centre.

Meanwhile Jem is surging ahead. Sh's no walking yet, in fact she has only had a few moments of 'proper' crawling. The rest of the time she drags her legs behind her in a cross between 'the-terminator-with-it's-legs-blown-off' approach and the 'stealth-attack-commando-crawl' style.

God's on the Phone

2008-05-30T10:48:00.003+02:00

Last night the phone rings, and Ben gets there first.
I missed the conversation, and Hayley eventually got the phone off Ben.
So I asked him afterwards what happened on the phone.

Dad: Who was on the phone Ben?

Ben: (Hesitantly) Someone

Dad: Was it Nanna?

Ben: No, it was God.

Dad: Oh! What did God say?

Ben: 'Hello Ben!'

Dad: And what did you say to God?

Ben: Time to go now! Bye!

I love being a parent.

For the record, it was acrually Frtiz on the phone arranging to come over later that evening for wine and pizza. He thought Ben's confusion was good form. 'At least someone appreciates me' , I think was his remark. :)

BTW, it reminded me of a classic part of that great movie Dead Poet's Society. Which is quoted here for your pleasure. If I get called into a meeting with the headmaster one day becuase Ben tries something like this, it wouldn't be the end of the world.

Scene: All the boys from the conservative Welton school are seated in asembly.

MR. NOLAN:

In this week of Welton's Honor there appeared a profane and unauthorized article. Rather than spend my valuable time ferreting out the guilty persons -- and let me assure you I will find them - - I'm asking any and all students who knows anything about this article to make themselves known here and now. Whoever the guilty persons are, this is your only chance to avoid expulsion from this school.

The sound of a phone ringing can be heard.

The professors lookabout for its source.

Charlie picks up a telephone receiver.

CHARLIE:

Welton Academy. Hello. Yes, he is. Just a moment.

Charlie stands up, holding a phone and bell in his hands.

CHARLIE:

Mr. Nolan, it's for you. It's God. He says we should have girls at Welton.

Most of the students laugh while the boys from the cave all shaketheir heads in disbelief.

The Ear

2008-05-26T20:42:00.004+02:00

Jemma is back with an ear infection. Second time in as many months.

So Hayley came back from the doc with a bundle of antibiotics and some cream for a related rash. So, we feel good that we got to the bottom of the last few days and nights of unhappiness. But do you think we can get her to swallow the medicine?

Now, we've been through this before a few times, so we're not completely clueless. We blow on the face, we pinch the pouting lips, we tempt it down with a bottle.

But all of these were like trying to stop a tank with spitballs. It took ages. We finally got there but I can't see us doing this dance for the next 10 days. Some we can try and mix with food, others not.

So any suggestions out there?

Until we are through this patch, here are some recent pics from the week before the dreaded ear.

Watching the bath is sometimes a smuch fun as being in it

Recent moments in the Tubman Family

2008-04-25T13:27:00.002+02:00

Jem has developed a strange affection for eating the top of the lip gloss tube

But you are never too young to be a princess!

The sandwich

In the mornings it is getting quite chilly, and Ben doesn't have any slippers yet.

So we found a way to keep his happy hugger on his feet during b'fast :)

The naked chef. It's a guy thing.

Books and Swings

2008-03-28T09:57:00.003+02:00

Ben loves reading. I mean he really loves books. The finger on the chin is his action for the phrase, 'I wonder . . . ' as in 'I wonder which book to read tonight!'

Meryl and Hayley giving him a swing. When I tried his faced turned very serious and he said, 'Daddy, I wommit (vomit)'. So we stopped. Like, right that second.

Scott

Mt Fix It

2008-03-18T14:59:00.003+02:00

Nanny and Poppy got Ben a lawn mower for Christmas last year. It's great, but becuase it is a little battery hungry, it gives us the chance to get out the old tool kit from time to time to 'fix it up'. I think Ben not only got the lawn mower from Poppy, but also his love of tools and fixing things. So in honour of all that - here is Mr Fix It.

The chuckles

2008-03-13T13:40:00.005+02:00

It took a while for this video to get posted, but now I'm in the groove, so we might see some more real time footage rather than just the static photos coming up on soon.

Anyway, here is Jemma in one of her better moods having a laugh at . . . well, you'll see what.

Like Uncle, Like Nephew

2008-03-10T12:28:00.002+02:00

Not long after Craig left, Ben discovered tommy sauce. It is not unusual now to find him sheeplishly sucking on the bottle tucked away in a corner.

It looks as if the curse of the red gold might have been passed on to a new generation of Tubmans!

Just to clear the air . . .

2008-02-22T15:04:00.005+02:00

When you haven't posted in a while you feel the desperate need to do catch up rather than contribute anything of substance.

Of course, to me, these pictures are of very real substance indeed!

So this is to clear the air . . .

Now that Jem can sit up, Ben is favouring the bath over the shower again.

We are both equally uncomfortable here

Getting ready for creche at church

She is now 'happy girl'

Some catch up

2008-01-24T18:54:00.000+02:00

Before I got a chance to use the whiteboard for bible study, guess who got a hold of it?

The end product

Ben still gets pretty excited when he does a poo. And why not?

A cuddle time under Uncle Leights old BMX doona

Solids are a big hit - I think this is chicken and something green

The look

2008-01-16T08:05:00.000+02:00

When you hit the point when a kid gets personality, you really feel like you have another member of the family rather than just a baby.

To me, this look is right out of Sienfeld

Scott

I'll have what she's having.

2007-12-28T14:46:00.000+02:00

Well, news on the Tubman kid front: Jemma has started solids.

And she is into it big time. Typical Tubman.

I realise in the photos she looks a bit hesitant, but I think that is more her trying to figure out som excited parents with a camera than anything else.

Scott

Bouncy and the fat kid

2007-11-29T18:45:00.000+02:00

Here is someting I wrote to Ben last week.

In November each year there is a street carnival in Harfield Village – just a few minutes’ walk down the road from the church. This year we had already been out most of the day and you were pretty tired – in fact it was one of the few times you fell asleep in the back of the car. But we took you and Jemma down in the prams for a look anyway. As soon as we got there you were dying for a go on the jumping castle (‘bouncey!’).

On our way back through the crowds I took you over for a go. But even before we got close I could see that it was full of older kids (6-10yr olds) who had turned it into a no holds barred fight ring. They were smashing each other around like it was a cage match in the WWE. What made it worse was that there was no open side, just 2 portholes you had to climb through to get in. Once you were in, you were in.

But you were starting to go nuts anyway so I fed you through the porthole and kept a hand on you with my head stuck in too. He kids almost stopped for a second as they saw you and my head. All except for this one massive fat kid who was already mid flight as he catapulted off the opposite wall. It all happened in a split second – he smashed into you, you both fell down and then you both got up again almost as quickly. I thought if that was all there was too it, then we might have been given a ‘get out of jail free’ card. Fat kid looked up sheepish as if to say, ‘Hey, I’m fat. It’s hard for me to slow down quick.’ You looked at him, you looked confused, then you looked at me. And then I’m guessing you realised that it really really hurt, and you burst into tears. I pulled you out, but no amount of comforting was going to help, you cried all the way home.

I remember feeling terrible. Bad that you got hurt, bad that you were so tired to begin with. But what made it even worse was that it was very difficult to blame anyone else but me for you getting squished. I could tell that it was too rough for you in there and I couldn’t blame the poor fat kid. Besides, as soon as he hit school, he would have enough problems of his own. Also, in that split second where I could see it all happening, I was so helpless to do anything about it. I couldn’t even get angry with the kid who ran into you (see fat kid comment above). I kind of felt like you went in there feeling ok about it because you knew I was there. Not coming through with the goods for you in that situation made me feel so bad.

Of course, all these thoughts of mine happened in about the same time it took you to get flattened, so it certainly wasn’t the end of the world for either of us. But I was overwhelmed by that feeling of wanting to protect you. It was the Harflied Village Carnival’s mini rebuke, reminder, warning and inspiration all in one.

Words

2007-11-20T22:33:00.000+02:00

Here are some words that Ben is saying with definate clarity.

Waterfall (from a recent holiday)

Hot water, cold water

Cat in the hat

house

microwave

apple juice

milk

squirel

nemo

Nanny Poppa

Meryl (godparent)

park

Paul and Peter (as in from the bible)

Tigger, winnie the pooh and Rabbit

It's hard to keep up with the little guy

Scott

She is tickleish and she is laughing!

2007-11-16T12:17:00.001+02:00

We live in a society of laws

2007-11-08T09:59:00.000+02:00

In the last few weeks we have started to focus a bit more on some discilpine for Ben. So far, he has responded fairly well and we are learning as we go.

With all this stuff bubbling away in my mind, I happened to stumble over a little bit of parenting advice from the one, the only Homer Simpson. Here is the speech he delivered to Bart after the little guy was caught shoplifting.

It made me laugh.

'How could you? Haven't you learnt anything from that guy who gives the sermons in church? Captain What's-his-name? We live in a society of laws. Why do you think I took you to see all those Police Academy movies? For fun? Well, I didn't hear anybody laughing! Did you? Except at that guy who made sound effects (Homer imitates the guy and chuckles to himself, then refocuses) Where was I? Oh yeah - stay out of my booze.'

Thus endeth the lesson

My New Fav.

2007-11-05T20:15:00.000+02:00

Update

2007-10-26T11:43:00.000+02:00

Ben is in his bed and loving it heaps.

Here is the sleepy head.

Jem is just a contended baby (let the reader understand) and is great to have around

Scott

New swimmers

2007-10-18T10:13:00.000+02:00

Someones pretty excited . . . .

Scott

Can you feel the love?

2007-10-15T11:23:00.000+02:00

The Magnetic thingy

2007-09-17T22:16:00.000+02:00

A post in 2 parts

2007-09-14T13:59:00.000+02:00

Part 1: Something Amazing

I often take Ben over to church to get some jobs done. As I was getting ready to take him over the other day, this is the conversation that followed . . .

Dad: Ready to go to church?

Ben: Okay (his new favourite word)

Dad: Ben, what is church?

Ben: People, bible!

Dad: *gasp!*

I'm not really sure what prompted the question in the first place but how's that for an answer?

There was no getting bogged own in the regular answer people give; church is the building, a place, singing, etc. (He doesn't know those words yet to be honest). But he cut straight to the chase with (God's) people gathered around (God's) word.

What champ!

Part 2 : Something cute

Ben has been playing around in Jemmas old moses basket. Hayley took some snaps.

Go you good thing . . .

2007-09-10T21:20:00.000+02:00

Everyone is getting into the world cup.

We were out and about the other day with Ben in his wallabies jeresy and he got a bit of flak for it. Needless to say I stood up for him, but it won't be long before he can give it as good as he gets it. The 2 of us watched the rugby on Sunday, and while I don't think he quite appreciates the finer points of the game, he likes eating chips with Dad and saying, 'Rugby!' That's fine by me.

Scott

Sweet Dreams

2007-09-05T08:51:00.000+02:00

Ahhhhhh . . .can you hear it?

No, neither can I!

It's the sound of sleep

Jemma is now only getting up for 1 feed in the night and the reflux seems to be under control.

Jemma is peaceful.

Hayley is happy

So Scott is happy

Ben doesn't care, but he is always happy.

Scott

2007-08-30T19:01:00.000+02:00

These pictures really do tell a thousand words - but in summary I'll just keep it to a handful.

For the last few weeks Jemma has been suffering with reflux. That menas projectile vomitting, crying all the time, not settling at nights and the fact that she is obviously in much pain.

After changing doctors, medicine, elevating her cot to a 30 degree angle, time and prayer, she seems to have turned a corner. Not sure if we are out of the woods yet, but we can definatley see the sky.

So here are some pics that document our new found zest for the baby phase - she is smiling!

But if you are a praying person, please remember our friends Tash and Mike and baby Hugo. He was really prem, then got TB and now is also suffering from reflux which they can't treat becaue of the TB. Please pray for them.

Scott

2007-08-22T12:19:00.000+02:00

I haven't quite mastered doing a blog for 2 kids yet. Do you have to share posting space equally? Does each post have to have both of them? I'm not sure of the rules yet.

So until I figure them out I think caution is the better part of blogging.

The Boy: He loves the dryer - packing, un packing, feeling it's warmth when its on and also climbing inside of it.

The girl: Well, I don't know what she likes doing really, but here she is anyway.

Scott

Nanna Poppa

2007-08-20T18:19:00.000+02:00

Well, Mum and Dad have landed back Sydney side, and as a tribute to Nanna and Poppa, here are a couple of shots that made the last 3 weeks so good.

Thanks Nanna and Poppa for your patience and generosity.
Ben loves you to bits and had such a great time. In fact, all four of us miss you very much.

Scott

Two and counting

2007-08-17T13:48:00.000+02:00

On Wednesday, Ben turned two. With Jemma still grabbing lots of our attention and mum and dad here and the fact that we were still feeling a little tired - we opted for no party - but had some of our friends around to keep him occupied for a few hours. It worked like a charm.

Mel making some use of the b'day inflatable trampoline.

(I've discovered it's great for some father-son smackdown before bath time)

Meryl keeping the Nemo theme alive

Alone with the trampoline, the croc see-saw was our other present for the little guy

My folks got him a lawn mower that does almost everthing my lawn mower does.

Pressie time

For some reason I don't have any photo's of Dd leaping over Ben's head, the sparklers on the cake or the myriad of other presents he scored - but I'll try and make up for it in the next few posts.

Happy b'day mate.

Scott

Bath's and Birds

2007-08-11T22:16:00.000+02:00

Aparently eveyone must have a baby bath shot. I think it is in the rules somewhere. So I didn't want Jemma to miss out. It might count against her when she got to college or something.

And here is Nanna's fav. shot of Ben at 'World of Birds' (which is kind of a misnomer as they do also have monkey's, alpacas and wallabies?!) He likes ducks - probably because he can pronounce it - but it didn't stop him from a goofy look nonetheless.

Scott

Catch up

2007-08-06T10:38:00.001+02:00

Catch up time . . .

My mum and dad are over at the moment - which is great. Nanna and Poppa are a big hit, in fact Ben is out with them right now. Bonus. They also think Jem is pretty cute too.

Ben loves to share his old cot with his sister - except it freaks me out cause in comparison, he looks like gigantor.

Also, Ben's local Nanna has introduced him to the world of back rubs after bath. He better enjoy them from her cause he ain't getting them from me.

So there you go.

Scott

Brother

2007-07-23T10:28:00.000+02:00

The first thing people ask after, 'How is the baby / Hayley doing' is 'How is ben coping with his new sister'?

And since for the last 2 years this was Ben's blog that he is now sharing with his little sister, I'll tell you. But first let me show you . . .

The answer: He is doing real well.

He seems to have a genuine affection for Jem and (most of the time) knows how to be gentle and quite around her. He will always share his stuff with her and is very concerned if He and I hop in the car and she is not with us.

I think, when it comes to my kids, I am the eternal optimist, but I reckon it will stick.

Scott

Jemma

2007-07-15T18:22:00.000+02:00

Jemma Grace Tubman has arrived!

(for more pics visit www.accordingtoscott.blogspot.com)

( She got a bit bruised on the way out hence the 2 black eyes and other bruises.

Just in case you were wondering what all that was about)

But she did arrive 3 weeks early!

After taking in a bit of casual TV on Friday night, Hayley was getting really sore after we went to bed. And the soreness was coming at 10 min intervals. Not good.

We hit hospital at around midnight and Jemma arrived via ceaser at 3am. At 35 weeks she was quite prem and went on a drip for antibiotics and a feeding tube down the nose. 'They' say that apparently kids can't suck that effectively until 36 weeks but after twisiting the nurses arm we gave Hayley a shot at breastfeeding. And the little girl took to it like . . . a baby to a breast I guess. So at least that means she can come home with Hayley on Tuesday.

It was a bit of a case of good, bad, good. Having a baby is fantastic. (the good)

But it was out of the blue (being so early), we got stuck with a grumpy nurse when we arrived, our gynae and doctor and birth companion were all away as was Hayley's mum. And also my parents plane tickets are now 3 weeks out of date. So we were kind of flying solo. )The bad) (We had replacement doctors for all these jobs of course - it's not as if we delivered Jem ourselves, but at times like that it is always nicer to have some familiar faces around.)

But 24 hrs later, Jemma's off the feeding tube, Hayley is up and about and life is feeling a bit more in control. (The good)

God is beautiful and creates amazing things. He is to be thanked.

More to come

Scott

Floating

2007-07-04T10:48:00.000+02:00

Ben's new trick

He loves to float and slosh around on his back in the bath.

(It makes hair washing a darn sight easier too)

Scott

Monkey see, Monkey do

2007-06-25T13:30:00.000+02:00

Ben imitates just about everything we do.

From how we sweep the floor, to how we brush our teeth, how I water the garden and the frustrated noises we make when something doesn't go our way. So I guess that when he saw me take off my boots after cutting the grass the other day, it was a no brainer for him.

It has made me realise that rasing a kid - at least in the early years - is all about making good behaviour caught just as much as it is taught.

It has also reminded me of 1 John 3.

'How great is the love the Father has lavished upon us that we should be called the children of God! And that is what we are! . . . We know that when He appears we shall be like Him, for we shall see him as He is.' (v1-2)

To imitate our heavenly Father by walking with Jesus is what it is all about.
So while I hope that Ben can catch some of the good things from his earthly Dad, I pray that he will also become more like His heavenly Father too.

Scott

A Noble Wife

2007-06-21T14:11:00.000+02:00

I'm not sure if Proverbs 31 (The Wife of Noble Character) speaks about giving kids hair cuts, but maybe it should. Nevertheless I did find a few words from that chapter that is a fitting caption for this picture:

'Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.'

(Pr 31:28-29)

Scott

PS: It's good to see my surplus is being put to good use . . . Don't tell the bishop . . .

Browsing

2007-06-18T11:51:00.000+02:00

Don't let the video collection fool you - they are all ex rentals for like R20 each.

Ben has a few DVD's buried in there somewhere - the latest is Thomas the Tank engine. He can't get enough of that crazy train.

But I think part of the joy of the whole experience is 'making his choice'. So very grown up.

Scott

The Tubman Beanie - It's a guy thing

2007-06-15T14:06:00.000+02:00

I got this beanie in country NSW and it has come with me to Africa.
It seems that I am now passing on the affection for the wollen beanie to Ben.
It looks as if he even has more fun with it than I do.

Scott

Prayer and a 22 month old boy

2007-06-08T13:36:00.000+02:00

Ben loves to pray.

He does it all the time. He folds his hands together and bows his head and makes some noise that I guess is a word and repeats it until we pray together. Hayley and I were reflecting on this the other day. The classic thing parents do is to credit their kids with way more than is reasonable. I'm away of that, I really am. But nevertheless, I beleive the following to be true.

Ben kows that when we pray we are talking to someone who is not there.

He thinks this is important. He wants to speak to this person regularly (he will never let us forget before meals or bed)

But he also wants to speak to this person spontaneously. He will often come running from his play room wanting us to pray with him and then just as suddenly, appear satisfied, and disappear once more.

I don't know what you make of all that but we are very thankful for it.

Scott

Noshy

2007-05-17T09:32:00.000+02:00

It's always exciting when you develop a new skill, right?

Well, this week (with the visit of a cold), Ben has learnt how to blow his nose.

Problem is, he doesn't get the idea that you are meant to blow your nose into the tissue. He dabs the top of his nose with the tissue AFTER he has huffed and pufed and blown snot all over his face.

I guess 1 outta 2 aint that bad . . . .

Scott

PS: I figured a pic of this might be midly disturbing

The kis of death

2007-05-09T11:55:00.000+02:00

Years ago back in Sydney I heard a great radio discussion on Triple J.

It was called animal gladiators. The idea was that 2 random animals were chosen to battle it our to the death. The listeners had to call in and play around with the thought experiment to see what could happen.

I'm glad to say that from time to time Ben lets his imagination wander.

T Rex verses a jungle cat?

(Although to be honest I think he was actually getting them to kiss, not eat each other. He is a pretty gentle kid deep down.)

Scott

Handy

2007-05-07T09:28:00.000+02:00

It's been so long between posts that I'm not really surprised that the last post didn't elicite any comment. But check it out, I'd be keen to hear what you think.

We got Ben some Mega Blocks (this will no doubt give him a head start to winning those lego building competitions in the shopping centres in school holidays a few years from now).

He is pretty handy with the hammer and screwdriver - he must get it from his grandad.

Scott

2007-05-04T10:36:00.000+02:00

Man, I've got a lot of blog catching up to do. But my theory is that you don't rob time from real life to blog it. It's the other way around.

Anywho . . .

One of Ben's fav. new toys is a doll that belongs to the children's dept here at church. It's meant to be a baby Jesus but it is a werid doll. African hair, asian eyes, white man's skin. I think this is taking PC a bit too far . . .

But that's beside the point. Ben loves it and puts it to bed, gives it kisses and lulls it to sleep.

The question that you want to ask me though is, "Are you sure it's ok for boys to play with dolls?"

Care to comment?

The Romantic

2007-04-11T09:02:00.000+02:00

It's funny where you find friends.

At the Two Oceans last weekend Ben found a friend at the Celtic tent.

The criteria for friend, of course, is that they have something you want and won't put up a fight when you take it.

She had chips, so Ben was in.

Although - as the photo's testify, he did pick her a flower and then proceed to let her smell it (translation: shove it up her nose).

He is a romantic, like his dad.

Scott

Blue Steel

2007-04-05T12:30:00.000+02:00

How is this for a look? Blue steel move over!

He is practicing for when he gets his real bike- he is going to be a chick magnet!

Todays equation: Bike + the look = stud

Scott

Toast

2007-04-04T12:56:00.000+02:00

OK, there is a bit of a backlog of Ben's pics at the moment, so I will try and get the posts rolling.

Today's equation: Vegemite toast = messy fun

Scott

What did you learn?

2007-03-29T13:58:00.000+02:00

Respect and Honour.

That is what King Leonadis teaches his son in the dusty square of the courtyard.

He was preparing his son by talking and wrestling. He was preparing him for battle, for life.

The young boys mother looks on approvingly. She will teach him also, but she can not teach him these things.

The boy is attentive. He respects and honours his father, his authority, his scars and his deep rough voice.

What did you learn as a boy?
What do you hope to pass to your son?
How will you prepare him?

Respect and honour is good.

Faith, Love and Hope may well be better.

Scott

PS: If you're lost - this is a reflection from the movie '300'. Catch up at www.accordingtoscott.blogspot.com

2007-03-22T16:14:00.000+02:00

How much fun can you have in a bucket of water?

Quite a lot, apparently . . . .

For Meryl: Helping Dad with the hose

2007-03-20T12:42:00.000+02:00

Play time

2007-03-14T09:21:00.000+02:00

One of my favourtie times of the day is when Ben and I jump on the bed in the spare room / play room and bounce around. He gets flipped, I get sat on, we blow rasberrys on each others tummys and laugh and muck around.

(No, he is not a genetic freak, but the reusable stickers from the pirate book are kind of fun.)

Good times

Scott

2007-03-07T09:26:00.000+02:00

A couple of milestones lately. Ben is becoming quite staunch about feeding himself (when he feels like it of course). Won't even let us touch the bowl while he eats. We have been having some fairly messy moments.

He also just got his first ever pair of proper shoes. Up until now he has been getting around very nicely in his sandals. But now there is a bit of a nip in the air we have moved to the real deal. He loves them, they are cool (and they stink a lot less than the sandals too)

Scott

Too Cloudy

2007-03-06T10:48:00.000+02:00

Ever been out at night to look at the stars, but all you saw were clouds?

Yup, well that was us yesterday arvo.

Tubman number 2, at this point, is inconclusive.

We saw him/her sucking the thumb, bouncing around but also being a little coy about what's downstairs.

So, the wait continues.

But in the mean time - why not leave a comment of a good boys name and a good girls name? At this point we need the options . . .

Scott

????

2007-02-27T13:45:00.000+02:00

Next Monday we find out if baby number 2 is a boy or a girl.

We know what we want, but what do you think?

Is Tubman 'The Sequel' going to be a boy or a girl?

Cast your vote now and all will be revealed on Tuesday!

Scott

Painting

2007-02-14T11:50:00.000+02:00

Noah

2007-02-12T11:37:00.000+02:00

Friday night saw an ironic reversal of roles.
Julie and Terence brougth little Noah Jeremaih over for us to babysit!

(Noah is a little guy that was remove from his 16yr old street mum for saftely reasons and is under the loving care of Julie as an emergency place of safety).

Ben thought he was pretty cool, and was suitably curious and gentle, which is a great sign for August.

Scott

2007-02-06T08:58:00.000+02:00

At least at this stage he is sticking to Dad's shoes, not mum's heels.

Scott

Uber Cute

2007-02-01T10:28:00.000+02:00

You've heard the phrase, "He's 21 going on 45!"
Normally, not a good thing.

But every now and then when your little kid does something that makes him all grown up it is uber cute.

When Ben watches his DVD's now he will crawl up on the couch, lean up on the pillows and let out a tired sigh.

He cracks me up.

But it works

2007-01-26T13:59:00.000+02:00

Yeah it's blurry, but you are looking at a boy with no more burns and a sexy new haircut.
Now, I've been saying a 4 all over for ages, but it took the hairdresser to convince Hayley.
But I must admit, he does look kind of - well, like a criminal - but it works.

For those for whom this would make sense, kind of like a Nathan Prior haircut?

Scott

Happy Days are back

2007-01-24T12:59:00.000+02:00

Well, here is the news.

It's looking good.

In fact, it is truly remarkable how quickly the little guys skin has bounced back. It kind of looks like real bad sunburn I guess. That tape on his arm is gone and none of it is causing him any grief. I am very thankful to our gentle God.

As for long term scars, who knows, but I'm guessing not.

Happy Days are back.

Scott

2007-01-16T09:25:00.000+02:00

This is neither a quirky nor funny post.

As we were packing up to leave our holiday to get back to home and work, I left a cup of coffee unsupervised and Ben pulled it own all over himself. I had him in the bath under cold running water in about 20 seconds but even so he got 2nd degree burns to his face, chest and arm. It was probably one of the most traumatic experiences I've had in a long long time. I think I can count the number of time I have cried since I was 10 on one hand, but driving at 140km to the hospital was one of them.

Fortunately the skin under the burns is still in pretty good condition so hopefully it won't scar or get infected. We have to go each day for the next week or two to get the dressings changed and to put more cream on.

Please pray for the little guy - although he is his usual happy self our hearts are breaking.

Scott

The Ben catch up

2007-01-06T13:09:00.000+02:00

The Ben catch up

These holidays Ben has . . .

Inflicted multiple blunt force head trauma’s by falling on his face many, many times

Helped Dad pot some flowers

Learned how to help unpack the dishwasher

Got his parents to read him books so many times that they have now memorised them (it makes it easier to read to him when your half asleep)

He has developed many new skills . . .
He has begun to draw all over himself with a highlighter

He farts and then laughs himself silly

He can eat a whole banana

If you ask him to give the new baba a drink, he will take the water bottle, pull up Hayley’s top and try and pour it into her belly button

He can crawl down our outside steps backwards

He lays on his tummy in the bath and blows bubbles

It’s been a hoot – and we still love him heaps

Scott

The highlighter

The reader

Christmas Day

In All Things

2006-12-19T22:46:00.000+02:00

This morning we went to a b'day b'fast with Ben who - we discovered at the end of the party - ate non stop because one of the guys there just kept on feeding him so much food that he threw up before we left. (I can maybe get that those without kids see them as potential zoo animals . . . ?) But it was just a little chuck so we thought it was ok.

In the arvo we were shopping and Ben threw up big time - all the food, all over himself, and the pram - it stunk. We got to the car park, got his shorts and shirt off, about to put him in the car - he vomitted again - big time, all over his nappy. We now have a naked kid and 2 parents covered in vomit in the car park. We get him in a clean nappy, put him in the car seat - and he vomits all in that too.

Now we are getting distressed.

So Hayley holds him in the back seat, we make it home, where - he vomits in the church car park too. Get him inside and cleaned up, he seems to calm down. Give him some water - and he throws that up. So we phone out doctor friend and we get some baby rehydrate powder and let him sip that in the bath before bed (oh yeah . . . we tried some toast for his dinner and guess what? Yup - back it came.) So we think that it might be stable, so we put him to bed early (but I did cover the matress with a garbage bag before putting the sheet over it) and just as well, because 10 min later, he threw up again in his cot.

So we ring the hospital, speak to a doctor and he says that the last resort before having to bring Ben in is to try a suppository. If that doesn't keep him from throwing up any more then it's a night in hospital. So it's godparents, Meryl and Richardt, to the rescue. They get the stuff from the chemist, they come round we give it to him (plus a few sips of water) and he goes down ok and so far (3 hrs later) he is still fine.

Today, I doscovered the other end of parenthood. (that is, elbow deep in vomit).

So far, Ben has spared us from all this - which is fine by me - but at least now I feel I can relate better to all the other parents.

In all things . . . .

Scott

Away

2006-12-05T10:02:00.000+02:00

Dec 1-3 is leaders retreat. We go camping, just for something different.

Last year Ben was 4 months old and in a tent. This year, we splurged on a cabin, but he still had a ripper of a time.

He managed his way into the girls tent to steal their cereal and chips, and Uncle Leights taught him how to play cards - sort of.

It was a top time

Scott

Work and Play

2006-11-28T13:43:00.000+02:00

Work is tough. It takes time and concentration. Sometimes the problems that present themselves can be real mind benders (esp. if you try and put the pink peg in the green hole)

But the good news is that after work there is always play. Like falling head first into a huge bucket of balls. No one is expecting you to match shapes or colours or complete a task. As soon as you take the plunge you are riding the slide to freedom!

Scott

Loking good

2006-11-23T09:20:00.000+02:00

Granny picked up a little something the other day.
A beach towel poncho. Nice idea - but this one comes complete with attitude!

2006-11-15T13:11:00.000+02:00

It was a hot day, so we 'put the sprinkler on the lawn, and ran through with our gym shorts on' (thanks to The Bare Naked Ladies).
It was time spent not really doing much I guess, but it was time well spent.
May not look much from your side of the blog, but from my spot on the lawn, it was exactly how you want to spend your Saturday arvo.

Scott

PS: thanks steve for the photo

Joshua and Ben

2006-11-13T13:17:00.000+02:00

I got in trouble from some of you out there for promising more photos 'tomorrow' and then not delivering! Well, life happens, and Monday isn't too bad in my book :) But it is nice to know that you are checking and reading!!. Here they are . . .

Joshua is a real friendly kid who was trying to give Ben a hug. But sadly, Ben was too preoccupied with sucking water from the hose to reply.

The boys shared a bath together and also shared their loveof teeth brushing / toothbrush chewing.

It was great having Chris and Anna here with Joshua. Thanks for making us part of your whirl wind tour! By the way, how was the plane trip home. Any luck with the vegan meals?

Scott

2 recent classics

2006-11-09T15:43:00.000+02:00

OK, first of all the cute shot.
Ben has never been into teddy bears, or anything stuffed and soft for that matter.
He has a million of them but never given them a second look, until now.
He has kind of attached himself qute casually to winnie the pooh. It's still early days yet so we'll see if they just want to be friends or if it is something more serious.

How does 'hide and seek' turn into sucking the glass door? Pretty easily apparently. (It just dawned on me the weirdness of playing hide and seek behind a glass door!) Anyway,
I am a firm believer in developing skills now that will last him a lifetime. Yup.

Scott

PS: Tomorrow, some picks of Ben and his friend Joshua who came over from the UK (with chris and anna, his parents) to hang with us for a while.

I love this kid!

2006-11-09T11:13:00.000+02:00

A really great photo coming tomorrow. I promise.

Yesterday, I went looking for Ben who had motored off somewhere quietly.
Always a bad sign.
I eventually found him in his bedroom, sitting on the floor, 'reading' his bible.
A great moment frozen in my mind forever.

Other updates:
Ben can say ssssss for snake
He can say, "paw-paw" which he has for breakfast.
If you ask him to pray he will put his hands together and smile.
Hayley has also taught him how to do the actions (home made) for twinkle twinkle little star.

I love this kid!

Scott

2006-10-23T10:20:00.000+02:00

Well time for some more recent pics from the little-big guy:

Fritz was over the other day and had a top time with Ben abd his bubbles - trying to catch them was a bit tricky though

With some of his b'day money, we got him a swing- which he loves - and we managed to find 1 branch in the backyard that kind of works - after a fiar bit of stretching and straining from dad.

The other b'day purchase was one fo those tunnels that connects 2 little tents. He took to it like um, a toddler takes to a tent(?) and I even discovered that - thanks to years of caving - i can just squeeze thru myself - much to Ben's laughter.

scott

2006-10-18T09:50:00.000+02:00

I've made a discovery.

Working 7 days a week for 3 and a half weeks makes you tired - and also gives you little time to blog!

But the big news is the Ben is walking!! He hasn't left crawling yet, but he is about the house, staggering around like a drunk C3PO.

He also got a great swing for the backyard with some b'day cash - which he loves more than picking up vegatables and throwing them in the bin (which is quite a lot)

Some of these pics will appear shortly, but for now, a few backdated ones until I can catch up with myself.

Scott

Wagon Boy

2006-09-27T09:11:00.000+02:00

He staggers down the hall way like an overcaffinated frankenstein.
Little legs jerking forward, bum sticking out with a determiend yet excited look on his face. He is free of mum and dad but not yet free of his wagon.
It must be a truly weird experience for him, and it won't be long now until you read a post entitled - "He walks!"

But for now we're pretty excited anyway . . .

Scott

2006-09-21T08:47:00.000+02:00

Could be worse

2006-09-18T12:02:00.000+02:00

Ben's due for another hair cut. I kind of like it at the moment because he is getting little curls and pointy bits that make him a throwback to Astro Boy. But the highlight of his do at the moment is the mullet. Yup, that's right, it's here already. I kind of like it on the little guy, even took a pic of it but Hayley didn't want me to blog it as it would be the same as mocking my son on the world wide web. Hadn't quite thought of it like that, but hey, mum knows best.

Still it could be worse . . .

Ouch

2006-09-15T09:39:00.000+02:00

We thought Ben was getting mossie bites. Or maybe ants. Or maybe even spiders.

But it was none of the above.

It was hives.

I don't actually know what hives are except that they look a bit like this. Apparently they are an allergic reaction to something.

(For those of you well aquainted with the Tubman boys, you'll be glad to know that we have been steering well away from peanuts)

The good news is a quick trip to the doc and he is right as rain. But the poor kid looked, well, diseased. Good news is, all better now.

Scott

The pen is mightier than the wallet

2006-09-12T08:57:00.000+02:00

I've been published four times. Don't worry, it's not as good as it sounds.

The first time was in the History Teachers Association mag (the article I wrote was ripped off some extra study papers Mrs Davis, my year 12 ancient history tacher, gave me).

The second was in one of Ken's books.

The third was in a booklet a minister in J'burg put together on evangelism (The article was published under the name 'Stuart Tubman' ???!!!)

The fourth was the one that really paid off. Hayley got me to write something for a baby magazine about being a Dad. (I think if you go back to one of the first posts on this blog, you'll find it there). For a long time - nothing. Then a phone call saying they would use it. Much later . . .they deliver a cool all terrian 3 wheel Jeep pram and a camp cot. Not sure what it's like where you are at, but over here, these things are big bucks.

Score!

Scott

Dirt is good

2006-09-04T14:07:00.000+02:00

Hayley took Ben over to a friends house this morning and they played in the sand pit and covered themselves with pinky purple icing. What more could you ask for? It inspired us to work out fun ways for Ben to get dirty. any suggestions - we're pretty excited about it!

Scott

Surfs up

2006-08-29T09:09:00.000+02:00

Last week Friday and Saturday was an early taste of summer. So we hit the beach.
Ben had his bucket and beach stuff from his b'day and I rediscovered the joy of sandcastles.

I didn't really think he would go for the water the way he did and so I kind of forgot to take his shirt off etc. But he didn't seem to mind. When the waves hot him - he just laughed it off.

Party time!

2006-08-14T13:33:00.000+02:00

Ben is one tommorrow.

But he had his party on Saturday. It was kind of a new / weird experience for me, but lots of fun! I am a person who 'runs' lots of events and usually don't feel the pang of 'Will this work?' or'Am I in control?' But funnily enough I had a hint of those anxieties on Saturday. On one hand, getting a 1st b'day party off the group is like shooting fish in a barrell but at the same time, it's kind of like trying to make a birthday cake from scratch; unpredicable.

But some things are constant - like blowing out a candle.

Some of Ben's posse.

All bissfully unaware of each other.

Sometimes it takes a bit of warming up for us blokes to find our place at a shindig like this. . .

But present time is happy time

Not quite ready to walk and push means he is ready to sit and ride.

More shots soon

Scott

Here we go . .

2006-08-10T12:31:00.000+02:00

Baptising Ben was good and signifiacnt. As a friend of mine said, we are welcoming Ben from a Christian family into THE Christian family and handing him over in God's hands.

Gotta be happy with that

Maybe a little bit of an anti-climax in the sense that Hayley are I were committed to those promises for the last 12 months, and even the 9 months before that. But it's good to get it out in the open to be spured along by the wider family.

But we did rope in Meryl and Richardt as godparents which was and is and will be a blessing. You'll catch them below. and below that . . .

Fritz stepped up and baptised the little guy. Another great pleasure for us all. He was OS when Ben was born so it was tops he could be a part of Ben's life in this way. Thanks mate, top job!