Life As I Know It...

Remembering you, Declan!

2011-02-08T14:09:00.000+02:00

I can't believe it's been 2yrs since you earned your Angel wings, Declan. Time passes so fast but yet you have managed to stay in many hearts and thoughts.

You are missed sweet boy not just by your mommy and daddy but by lots of people whose life you touched with your gorgeous smile!

Hope you having fun in heaven, flying free!

Out with the old, In with the new! Welcoming 2011 with a smile...

2010-12-31T09:35:00.000+02:00

Hi All,

Looking back at 2010, so much has happened and so much has changed!

2010 brought about a very tough year but was also filled with lots of blessings from our Father above!

With every door that was closed this past year, a new one opened and I am grateful for each and every new door that opened. There were times this year where I felt very lost, very alone and very afraid and there were times that I felt overjoyed, excited and very loved.

I have learn't so many life lessons in just 2010 and have bumped my head six million times but thats the way we learn and then we move on.

2011 brings about promise of a new beginning. I am ready to grab this with both hands. I feel that 2011 is going to be a great year, a year of new things and new memories..

I look forward to welcoming my little niece into this crazy world....

I look forward to bearing witness to my best friends wedding....

I look forward to my brothers long awaited wedding....

I look forward to new friendships and spending time with old friends....

I am not making any new years resolutions because I never keep them but one thing I can promise for the new year is that I will grow in my spiritual life this year, its going to be a year of big change!

To everyone that has been a part of my life throughout 2010 - Thank you for your friendship, kindness and above all thank you for loving me just the way I am!

Happy new year everyone! May each and every one of you be blessed this coming year.. Be safe and lets make 2011 awesome.

Love

Claire

This Day 5 Years Ago! Happy Anniversary My Love!

2010-10-01T10:50:00.000+02:00

Looking back at this day! I remember it so clearly, like it happened yesterday! It was a wonderful day!

Happy Anniversary my love! Here to us on this very special day!

We have been through a lot in 5 years and we still going strong, lets make the next years great!

Love you lots!

All My Love

Claire

A new little life, so tiny and so perfect...

2010-09-24T14:29:00.000+02:00

Today, 24 September 2010, I got the honour of going to see little Kyra Erin Du Toit..

I arrived at the hospital busy reminding myself not to cry (I have been very emotional lately). When I saw Gillian bring little Kyra to the window, it was great - a true little miracle baby lying before my eyes. She is definately here with a purpose, she is the treasure of her mother's heart and definately daddy's little girl.

Gillian was glowing, looking great after a c-section and Daryl had a smile from ear to ear and little Kyra was lying in her cot, so tiny, so perfect..

I never got to see Declan, so its really something to be able to see his little sister.. I just can't wait to hold her!

Just wanted to share, what was a very special moment for me... And now I wait patiently for my turn to hold her..

God Bless you little Kyra - you are a true blessing! You will always be protected by Declan, your Guardian Angel!

Welcome To the World, Princess Tic Tac Du Toit

2010-09-22T21:55:00.000+02:00

Congratulations Gillian and Daryl on the arrival of your precious baby girl @ 16:25pm today, weighing 2.98kg...

She has the most precious little face and is absolutely beautiful!

She is going to fill your lives with love, laughter, fun and joy!

May God bless her in abundance today and forever more.

Enjoy her and enjoy the time together as a wonderful family!

Happy Birthday, Aunty Bev!

2010-09-22T13:58:00.000+02:00

Happy Birthday Aunty Bev!

I hope you have a super special day and that you are spoilt rotten just like your two wonderful daughters know how to do!

I am dedicating this post to you beacsue you are one amazing woman with unbelievable strength & wisdom and you have so much love to give, not only to your gorgeous grandchildren but to everyone that crosses your path.

You are truly an earth angel and you are admired in so many different ways!

May God richly bless you for many many more years!

Lots of love

Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

A New Look....

2010-09-21T19:45:00.000+02:00

So I decided to give my poor shabby little blog a facelift.. What do you all think? I mean can one ever be satisfied with the look of your blog.. I am going to say: yes for now but I am sure I will change my mind at a later stage!

I will most definately be posting more often and I look forward to many happy blogging days!

Happy 2nd Birthday Ethan!

2010-09-01T08:27:00.005+02:00

To My Gorgeous Baby Boy,

Happy Happy Birthday!

You are so very special to us and we love you unconditionally! You are getting so big so quickly and mommy is half sad that you are growing up so fast but I am enjoying you so very much. Your laughter is so catchy and straight from your belly and your smile is to die for. You are a real charmer and the ladies love you!

Have a great day my big boy and we can't wait for you to enjoy your Toy Story party on Sunday!

Love you lots!

Love

Mommy, Daddy and Hannah

Happy 2nd Birthday Angel Declan....

2010-06-13T20:51:00.003+02:00

Here is a poem for you Gill & Daryl, today as you miss Declan more than ever and as you celebrate Declan's 2nd birthday!

A Message From Heaven

I am not so far from you
Just a little way beyond
Past the cares and past the pain
Far past my earthly bonds

When you feel you miss me most
As years go drifting by
Each memory will prove to you
That our love will never die

For our memories are but a touch
From the Fathers gentle hand
To heal your pain and mend your hearts
To help you understand

That while I left you far to soon
I did not leave alone
For the Father sent his angels
To gently take me home

Take comfort when you think of me
Keep my love alive in your heart
And with the warmth of each memory
We will never be apart

Lots of love

Declan

Happy Birthday, Angel boy... You are truly missed! Your memory lives on forever!

Our Weekend at Dikhololo in pictures!

2010-05-24T19:46:00.015+02:00

All of us on our quad ride!

The kiddies playing chess..

Belito feeding the kiddies!

Lovng the sun and loving the tennis court

On our little walk

Having fun in the sand.

Kaptein span die seile, Kaptein sy is myne!

Hannah giving us a nice smile!

having fun and being a boy!

Eating chippies..

Daddy & Ethan on the bike!

Mommy & Hannah on the bike!

Finally, Pictures of my babies!

2010-03-01T16:54:00.006+02:00

Hannah in her school uniform, hiding a sweet behind her back!

Hannah balancing her "Little Vineyard Nursery School" hat on her head!

Almost done , Mom!

How messy but still cute!

Ethan enjoying his ribs at Spur!

Hi All,

I have been dying to put pictures of my beautiful babies up on the blog but Ethan first hid my camera away and now it is broken.

I have taken pictures with my blackberry, they are not wonderful pictures but at least I can put a few pictures up until I buy myself a new camera.

Love
Claire

A Little Miracle for Two Very Deserving Friends......

2010-02-15T20:08:00.003+02:00

Hi All,

I am so excited to finally write this post, it has taken every ounce of my being not to scream this wonderful news from the top of a mountain...

Gillian & Daryl (Declan's Mommy & Daddy) are expecting a little bundle of joy , a pure little miracle.. I cannot think of two more deserving people and I am delighted for them.

Gill & Daryl

May your little miracle bring you both elated joy and may you have a fantastic pregnancy.. I wish for you both only good things and tons of blessings...
Know that I am over the moon and so very excited.
I can't wait to meet your miracle...

Lot's of Love

Me

We Remember You, Angel Declan!

2010-02-08T06:48:00.003+02:00

Dear Declan,

Today marks 1 year since the Lord folded you in his arms and took you home to rest. You are missed very much everyday, not only by your mommy and daddy but by an entire world...

Today we remember your beautiful smile

Today we remember your wise blue eyes

Today we remember your courage

Today we remember your bravery

Today we remember your fight

Today we remember you!

Continue to fly free and continue to watch over your very brave parents, hold your mommy & daddy today and let them know that you will never leave their side...

You continue to ripple it far and wide, Brave Declan!
You are missed!

Lots of love
Us

Hannah's 1st Day at School....

2010-01-14T06:53:00.001+02:00

Hi All,

Just a quick blog to tell you how Hannah coped on her 1st day of school yesterday and how mommy coped....

Hannah was so excited, she couldn't wait to get in the car with her bag and embark on this adventure.. We all went, Daddy, Mommy & Ethan, to go settle Hannah in at school. When she arrived she greeted everyone with a huge smile and a very polite " Hello, fine and you?" - Hannah does not wait for someone to ask how she is, she just lets them know she is fine and asks how they are....

I started crying on our way to the school already and all Hannah could ask me was " Why are you crying?" - my response " Mommy is so happy that you are starting at a new school today" and she was satisfied with that answer. Deep down I knew I can't cry when I say goodbye to her because that will make her uneasy. So mentally preparing myself for the worst reaction from Hannah, I got ready to say goddbye. Hannah gave us a huge hug and kiss and said, see you later....
It broke my heart that my little girl is so brave but I was so happy because it made things easier for her and me...

Sometimes I think that the mothers have the problems adjusting, not the children...

She had a fantastic time, learn't a new song about a frog and her teacher said she fits in just perfect.... When I got home last night she could not wait to tell me about her day and then at exactly 7:30pm she was sound asleep....

I will post some pictures tonight or tomorrow morning, I forgot my camera at home today - silly me..

Have a fantastic day and God Bless you all..

Love
Claire

Sweating The Small Stuff........

2010-01-07T13:24:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

I have a lot on my mind lately, especially this week and I need to write something somewhere as I am scared my head will end up bursting with all the thoughts racing through it..

Has anyone ever had the feeling / experience of thinking about the little things that was said to you all at once and it feels like you can't finish thinking of 1 thing then the next just jumps into your mind?? Well that is exactly whats going on in my head at the moment, so I figured that I would blog about it.... Maybe I can then sort through my filing cabinet (my mind) and get my thoughts back on track and in order....... Shew, so here goes..

For as long as I can remember I always wondered why I sweat the small stuff, why do little things affect me so much and bigger things I tend to handle with a lot more grace and I normally take the bigger things in my stride... But the small things hurt, throw me off track, make me questions things.... if anyone has an answer then I am all ears....

There are so many things that I treasure and that are important to me for eg: a flower picked from a garden and given to me - To someone else this may seem like a small gesture or "Oh, how nice, a flower" but to me its affection, it tells me that, that person thought of me and cares for me, if you see where I am going with this...

I have never expected anything from anyone ever but yet some feel that my expectations placed on them are very high - I might not see what others see but what I believe in is what makes me, well me.... I have spent my whole life trying to mould myself to others perceptions on how I should be and behave - I have done this for as long as I can remember and always end up asking myself why? Shouldn't people just like me for who I am? Am I too afraid to let people know who I am in fear of rejection?? Ok Ok - lets not get too deep on this one, but I am sure you know what I mean..

A few things were said to me a while ago, some of it hurt and some didn't but as I continue thinking about these things I can see that it was purely a projection and not really an attack on me as a person... So the sooner I learn this lesson the better things will be......

I thought this blog would be longer but it was just a quick scribble of what is going through my mind and hey I feel better already..... It helps to get those thoughts and feelings down and out there...

To all my friends - I treasure our friendship more than you will ever know...

To My Beautiful Children - I love you very very much and I am blessed to have every single day with you..

To My Husband - You are indeed my strength and you have listened to me go on and on about all this stuff in my head - You have helped me see things from others point of view and I love you lots for allowing me to be me...

God bless everyone..

Love
Claire

Out with Old, In with the New!

2010-01-04T11:46:00.015+02:00

Here is Bolt our other baby!

Ethan - I thought this was so cute!

Hannah dressed up for photo day at school last year!

Busy Busy!

Hannah helping decorate the Christmas tree

Hannah enjoying the pressies

Ethan doing his own thing!

Hannah climbing into the pressies on Christmas morning!

Hannah, Ethan and Bolt

Hannah & Ethan enjoying the hot weather we have had!

Swim Time

Ethan Dancing ...

Ethan in his Speedo - Cute!

Hi All,

Wow, I haven't posted in such a long time and I have really missed posting about this and that. This post is going to be a little of this and a little of that..

Where do I start? December was a pretty busy and fun-filled month for us. We spent so much time with the kids, who I might add are extremely busy, although hectic was really great!
We spent a week on Tania's farm - boy oh boy - the kids had a ball... Ethan loved the open space to run around and Hannah just loved the farm animals.. She got to feed little lambs with a bottle and she got to touch a baby Makou (not sure about the spelling)... She watched the cow being milked and enjoyed feeding all the chickens... Ethan was a bit crabbly that week due to him having the MMR vaccination the previous week but all in all it was nice to be away a little...

The rest of the holidays was spent at home and taking the kids out and about....

Christmas Eve was spent at my sisters house and it was a relaxing evening... Hannah enjoyed the pool and Ethan slept - which gave me & Stephan a bit of a break to just relax and sit down..

This was the first year that we spent Christmas day on our own at home - every year is normally spent with my mom and the family but this year was a little different as everyone was away. It was a quite day spent with my little family... Stephan and I packed all the pressies the previous night so that when the kiddies woke up on Christmas morning they could see all the pressies waiting for them.. Hannah was so surprised and Ethan was not bothered - he looked at the tree and ran away to find a toy to play with... The kids loved all their gifts and thanks to everyone for their gifts..

December was a great month filled with lots of much needed family time - its amazing how fast the kids grow... I held a little baby (1 month old) in my arms on old years eve and I got all the flashback memories to when my babies were that small and you could just cuddle them... I love newborn babies, the smell the small feet and little hands - I miss that so much but do not want anymore kids, so to my wonderful friends that are going to try for a baby (you know who you are) - hurry please I want to hold a little one for very long... LOL

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! - OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW.....

To All Our Wonderful Friends and Family,

Have an awesome new year.. I have this amazing gut feel that 2010 is going to be an awesome year filled with promises from above... I am so ready for 2010 and can't wait to see what the new year holds... 2009 was a rough year for us (and i am sure for many others too) but we are NOT going to look back and worry about what 2009 brought because 2010 holds new promises, new hopes and new dreams..... I wish everyone everything of the best for this year.. May all your dreams and wishes come true and may your faith remain sturdy...

There has been lots of good things and blessings that came out of 2009 and I know that those blessings will carry forth for many years.. When things go wrong you tend to forget what you have been blessed with... I have so much to be grateful and thankful for and when I look around me I see all the wonderful things and people that have come into my life and ones that have been there all along, but I was so blinded by problems that I didn't notice......

I am thankful for:

1 ) My Children - when I look in their eyes I know I am blessed.. They love me no matter what - If i make a mistake they still love me - if I break a promise they still love me... Unconditional love is what they have for me and I made a promise to myself that I will love unconditionally this year and always....

2) My Husband - I am blessed to be loved by a great man - 2009 is in the past and 2010 is going to be our year, My love!

3) New friends - it has always been a mammoth task for me to make friends - I do not have a great track record when it comes to friends but I have made a very special friend in 2009 - the circumstances at the time allowed us to meet and now we are getting closer bit by bit.. Thanks Gill for being such a great friend and for allowing our friendship to grow - I see many years of friendship..... (Lots of hope and faith)

4) Family - I have a great family - lots of brothers and 1 sister..... Love you lots guys..

5) People in need - I am blessed with the ability to make a difference and 2010 is going to be the year that we are going to make a huge impact for many years to come...

To My Brother Sean,
Happy birthday for the 1st January - 30 - wow you getting old now - LOL...
We enjoyed the new years party with you and especially because we were able to celebrate your birthday with you.. You are very special to me and I love you lots - enjoy your 30's - I believe its all good from now on!!

Thanks for reading and have an awesome day!
Lots of love Claire

Breast Cancer Walkathon - 18 October 2009

2009-10-20T09:09:00.018+02:00

In deep thought!

Some people walking

Doing what us ladies do best - talking!

Still at the start!

At the Start...

Walking.......

Me - doing the walk with Ethan in the pram!

( Daryl help push Ethan most of the way - Alicia helped too and Gill helped too)

Silvana, Little Julian and Silvana's Sister!

Chatting and waiting!

Standing and waiting!

Kim and Oh So Cute Aiden!

Daryl - Declan's Daddy

Gill - Declan's Mommy

Some Deccie supporters!

The Crowds

Hi All,

I hope everyone is well? We are doing just fine.. Hannah is getting so big and Ethan too..

We did the 5km Breast Cancer Walkathon on Sunday... It was great fun, tiring, but fun.. Hannah and Daddy went to walk around the Zoo and look at all the animals and Gill, Alicia, Daryl, Liesel, Silvana & hubby & sister and Julian and Ethan and Myself took on the 5km in our Declan T-shirts - I know I have missed a few names but I can't remember everyone....

So Enjoy the pics...

Love

Claire

Bandana Day Today!

2009-10-14T09:54:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

I am finally able to sit and do a quick blog before my day gets real hectic...

Today is Bandana day - so if you have not purchased your bandana, go and get one - the proceeds go to The Sunflower Fund.... to read more about The Sunflower Fund go to http://www.sunflowerfund.org.za/

We must remember and celebrate the lives of those that are fighting cancer, those we have lost to cancer and those that have survived cancer:

So here is to the precious lives of:

Angel Declan Du Toit - A dear baby very close to my heart who passed away from cancer at the tender age of 8 months.. He fought a brave fight and received his miracle finally in heaven. We celebrate his precious life - those beautiful blue eyes and smile!

Deqlan Ross Higgins - A brave survivor of cancer... Deqlan is extemely near and dear to my heart. Deqlan was diagnosed with cancer and fought so hard, he won his battle and is now NED (No Evidence of disease)... He celebrated his 3rd birthday on the 11th of September 2009. Deqlan opened my eyes to the world of cancer - Since I started following his story - I have met very brave children and adults alike that are fighting this monster.... We celebrate you today too, Deqlan!

Reef Carneson - A dear baby that is currently fighting, was diagnosed with Leukemia and has had a bone marrow transplant... The marrow is working and he now needs lots platelets.. We celebrate your life today, Reef !...

I have just put three names up here, but there are so many fighters out there.... We celebrate all the lives of the Cancer Survivors, Warriors and Angels!

God Bless Everyone and Keep you all safe!

Lots of Bandana Love

Claire

CHILDHHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH!

2009-09-02T08:32:00.003+02:00

Deqlan Ross Higgins - Cancer Survivor

Declan Du Toit - Brave little Angel

Hi All,

For those of you that do not know - September is childhood cancer awareness month. My dear friend Samm is honouring a warrior, angel or survivor of cancer each day and I would like to follow her example by honouring these children.

I am going to be dedicating the entire month to two very dear children that are very close to my heart:

Declan Du Toit - Angel

I followed Declan's journey by reading his blog from when he was diagnosed with cancer at a very young age and continued to follow until now, even though Declan is no longer with us, he lives on in spirit guiding everyone to do good work in his remembrance. Please go read Declan's story and go and see what his parents are doing in his memory on www.all-hands-on-dec.co.za

I was and still am amazed at the strength of a small baby, Declan had unbelievable courage and fight in him. Although Declan is sorely missed by many, he lived his purpose and left a huge imprint on everyones life. The most gorgeous little baby with the most wise eyes!

This month we thank the Lord for allowing us to be part of Declan's life and to follow his story.. We remember and honour Declan this month.

Deqlan Ross Higgins - Survivor

What more can one say about a Brave little boy! Deqlan was diagnosed with cancer round 8 months old and he fought a avery brave fight - he was determined to beat cancer and he did. I followed his story every step of the way and continue to follow his story as he goes full steam ahead, with the help of his wonderful family, to overcome his Autism. Deqlan ahs made wonderful progress and I urge you all to read his story on www.deqlanhiggins.blogspot.com

Deqlan, we are so proud of you and we can see all the strength and determination in your eyes - you are here for a divine purpose and I can't wait to see you grow up and fulfill that purpose. You have a very special place in my heart always and forever!

This month we thank the Lord for Deqlan and his continued health, we also honour you Brave Deqlan!

We also think of and continue to pray for all those little ones fighting this horrible monster. We pray that the Lord holds them in palm of His hands and heals them. We also think of and pray for all the families who have lost children to this horrible monster!

Lets stand together and create awareness for Childhood cancer!

Love

Claire

Happy Brithday Ethan!

2009-09-01T09:28:00.006+02:00

Ethan making his entrance a year ago!
Mommy finally meeting Ethan!

Sleeping in his hospital cot - so peaceful!

Ethan at 1 year!

Happy birthday big boy!

To Our Gorgeous Baby Boy!

Time has passed by so quickly and you are growing so fast. I can remember your birth day so clear, it was a cold day, storms everywhere - there had to be big events happening beacuse the most special little boy was going to be born. I was so excited to meet you and I was so happy to see your tiny face all safe and sound once Dr Miems finally got you out!

There is never a day that you don't smile - when I walk throurgh the door everydasy after a long hard day, you are so excited to see me and smile from ear to ear.. What more could a mother ask for....

We love you so much and wish only the best for you.. We love you tons and tons. God bless and keep you safe our precious baby boy!

Love

Mommy, Daddy and Hannah

Quick Update!

2009-08-20T09:17:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all well? Its been a long time since I wrote an update and thought I would quickly update you on the happenings...

My babies are doing well. Hannah has almost completely recovered from Bells Palsy and her face is almost 100% back to normal... Hannah is busy recovering from Bronchiolitis and is full of life and energy.. Ethan is trying very hard to stand for longer than 2 sec's and is doing so well. Can't believe he will be 1 in less than 2 weeks time, he has grown up so quickly!

Furthermore, we are getting ready to move - yes again... But my gut feel tells me this move is going to be good for us. So I am packing and getting everything ready and sorted for the big move next weekend..

Its Vanessa's wedding on Saturday, looking forward to that....

Have a great weekend everyone..

Lots of love
Claire

Peace Of Mind.......

2009-07-15T15:47:00.003+02:00

Hi All,

Hope everyone is well and keeping warm.... I can't wait for summer to arrive.... The smell of summer rain, summer braais and wearing less clothes... Also the joy in watching my children enjoy the outdoors and splash in water , just having fun.. They are so irritated by staying indoors most of the time cause its so cold...

We had Hannah at the paediatrician this morning just for a second opinion and to just make sure there is nothing else causing the paralysis in her face and because we have seen no change since she started all the meds.. The paed does not seem extremely worried, he checked her from top to toe and said all looks good except for the paralysis in the face. He put her on stronger meds and said we should wait a week and come back, if there is absolutely no change, he will then insist on an MRI Scan and blood work.. We are positive that it won't come to that and that we are going to see big change...

Hannah is 2yrs 7months today.. She is growing so quickly and learning so much.. She basically says everything you say, so we are very careful what we and others say around her.. Its amazing how they learn a persons tricks and sayings...

Anyway have a great day and thank you for all the prayers for Hannah, I just know they are working..

Love
Claire

Bell's Palsy???

2009-07-13T11:44:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Hope everyone had a good weekend with your loved ones and friends....

We had a pretty eventful and very stressful start to our weekend....

It all started when I got home on Friday afternoon after work.. I walked into 2 smiling children except there was something wrong with Hannah's smile... Her smile was just not the same smile and I just took a deep breath and sat down on the couch and kept saying to her " look at mommy", "smile for mommy"... It looked as though the entire right side of her face had no emotion and was not responding when she smiled or cried or spoke... My heart sank right to my feet and I started to panic... I was almost sure I was seeing things but my gut instinct was telling me there is something wrong!

My aunt was on her way to me and I thought I would just wait for her to get to me and see if she see's the same... I called Stephan and he said I must just wait till he gets home and he will check her face but he said he is sure its nothing!! My aunt walked thorugh the door and took one look at Hannah and said she see's exactly the same thing!! Now, I was really worried, I loaded Hannah and Ethan in the car and off we went to the doctor...

We finally saw the doctor and all he said was that she has Bells Palsy.... Huh, what is that!! Well, its a tempory facial paralysis that is caused by a virus that attacks the facial nerve and causes damage... Sounds scary!! The paed says the prognosis in children is very good but its very rare to see Bells Palsy in a child Hannah's age.. The doctor does not seem as worried as Stephan and I though! He said we must give it till Thursday and if we see now change by then, he will draw blood and start all the big scans etc, to make sure there is no underlying problems!

All I ask is for prayers that Hannah recovers full and quickly and that there are no other underlying issues.. We are very positive that she will recover nicely and that this is just merely a bump in the road!

God Bless..

Lost of love
Claire

Declan Day

2009-06-30T10:40:00.011+02:00

DECLAN DU TOIT - The Inspiration

Stephan, Me, Simon & Gillian

Pet & Caelum

Nadine, Fabienne & Isabella

Liesel doing face painting - I think Liesel did a great job!

Fern and Amy - what a cute baby girl! I loved holding her...

Liesel and Me

Precious Aiden - Kim's little one

Hi All,

Hope everyone is keeping warm in this very cold weather we are having.. I definately think winter has finally arrived..

What an awesome weekend we had, especially on Sunday..

Sunday was an extra special day, it was Declan Day! Stephan and I are part of a charity called All Hands On Dec Friends, inspired by the brave Declan Du Toit, which fought so hard and lost his battle to cancer on 8 February 2009..

So many people came out in the cold to show their support and love they have for this brave little soul and to do a little to help save lives. There were over 60 new Stem Cell Bone Marrow donors and over 60 pints of blood donated.

You could just see Declan smiling down on Gillian & Daryl..

Gill & daryl, what an amazing day it was.. A day to honour your son! It was perfect in so many ways.. Your dedication and love shows and your bravery shines so bright.. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to be part of All Hands On Dec Friends.. Its an honour and privillage!

See pictures above of Declan Day! Everyone was smiling, just like Declan did..

God Bless and Keep you all safe!

Love
Claire

This is why.....

2009-06-17T08:46:00.017+02:00

Hi All,

Samm sent me pictures of the Scrub a dub dub handout at Kalefong hospital and I am so glad she did.. I know that there is a lot of you that don't understand why I do what I do!! I don't have kids with cancer so how on earth can I possibly care so deeply for these other kids battling the disease?? This question is asked to me over and over again...

Well, I care so incredibly much because these kids are so very brave.. Braver than any adult I have ever known.. They endure so much... I want to make a difference, be it a small one, at least I know I have tried.. I love children and love seeing them smile and be happy..

I could carry on, but have a look at these pictures and then you will see why I do what I do!! Why I care so much... Have a look at the sparkle in their eyes, have a look at the moments happiness just a few simple things bring, that we take for granted everyday.. Maybe then you will understand!

Lots of love

Claire

Here's to New Friends, Love, Tears and Memories....

2009-06-15T13:36:00.007+02:00

Gorgeous Declan... Happy 1st birthday Angel Boy!! May you enjoy your celebrations with all the Angels in heaven!!

My little red haired looker fast asleep in Daddy's arms!!

Stephan sporting the latest in hard hats - when we went to Soccer City Stadium!

Hannah in her new tracksuit Granny made! Thanks mom!

Hi All,

Can you imagine experiencing so much in one weekend? This weekend alone, I experienced so many different emotions at once.... Love, heartsore, joy, admiration, nervousness , I could continue.....

Here is a little on my weekend and how we spent our weekend....

I took a day's leave on Friday, as I had, had a terrible week at the office and needed some breathing space and I was going to Kalefong hospital with Samm, Megan & Choc Pretoria to hand out the Scrub a dub dub hampers...

Samm fetched me round 11am s0 we could all meet at the Choc house in Pretoria.. My stomach started turning and I just knew it was going to be an emotional rollercoaster ride.. The Choc house is beautiful, I was taken from room to room by Megan and Samm and wow what a wonderful house, just what the kiddies need to lift their spirits... Then it was time to make our way to Kalefong.. I could really feel a lump forming and I started wondering how on earth I was going to see these kids without falling apart.. Samm reminded me that we must focus on why we are doing this and its to make the kids happy and try make things a little easier for them.. That gave me something to focus on and I was able to control the tears.. When I felt them welling up, I would just take a deep breath and try focus again..

I had photos taken with a few children and what beautiful children. The joy and sparkle in their eyes is enough to know how much they appreciate these gifts.. Samm, you continue to inspire me and I am truly honoured that I was able to go along and see for myself first hand what these tiny souls endure.. Thank you Samm for caring so much...

There was another thing working on my mind though and that was the thought of giving Gill & Daryl the photobook I made with pictures of gorgeous Declan in and all the messages from everyone that supports Gill & Daryl... I don't know why I was so nervous, I don't do well with reality and was just scared of what Gillian & Daryls reaction will be.. I put my brave face on and we arrived at Gillian & Daryls... And handed the special cargo over to Gill! We had such a great time with them.. Gillian & Daryl are truly amazing and inspiring people.. I admire them for all they have been through.. I am sure this weekend was tough for them but there is such comfort knowing that Declan is in heaven and is smiling down at his mommy & daddy!! Gillian & Daryl, I hope and pray that the memories in your photobook will always remind you of how truly precious and special Declan was and is to so many people.. Declan is a light that has lit up an entire nation.. Declan is pure love, pure joy and pure happiness! Declan is your miracle and that, I tried to capture in the book, showing you that Your miracle, Declan, has touched my life and so many others in such a special way! Gill & Daryl, I wish you both endless happiness and lots of laughter... I pray that you are comforted every night and I hope you know how much you are loved! I hope we can have many good years of friendship!!

On Sunday we had a relaxing day, we spent it with the kids, just being lazy and I even managed to take a nap with Hannah... When I look at my children, I know I am truly blessed and when I look at my husband I know that I am loved! I just hope that my family knows how much I appreciate and love them... Especially Stephan, I am kinda hard on the guy sometimes..

Hannah is 30 months today!! Happy 30 months my gorgeous baby girl! You are growing up so fast.... Love you madly!!

Hope you all have a fantastic week!! God Bless you and keep you all safe!

Lots of love
Me

What a day.....

2009-06-02T08:49:00.002+02:00

Hello All,

What a day we had yesterday... Not just yesterday but it all started on Saturday...

On Saturday morning we met Gillian, Daryl, Kerry and Theo and their kiddies at the zoo for a picnic.. It was so nice to be out and about with the kiddies, Hannah loved all the animals and Ethan just loved crawling around everywhere... But Ethan was starting to get niggly, I put it down to him just being tired... In the afternoon we had some friends over for a braai to watch the Rugby and everything seemed well..

Shortly after our guests left, it all began, Ethan woke up crying and I battled to settle him. I sat on the couch with him on my chest and he was incredibly restless.. I just thought his nose was blocked so he was battling to breathe.. I sorted his blocked nose out but he still didn't settle. There was no fever just the constant crying and unhappiness..

I left the kiddies with my mom on Sunday because Stephans work colleague arranged a trip to Soccer City to see how the stadium looks so far... It was very interesting.. When we returned to my mom, my mom showed me that Ethan had a tooth.. His eye tooth made an appearance, I thought it was odd that that tooth was coming out first.. But Ethan just got worse.. I took him to the doctor yesterday, only to find out that he has middle ear infection and that he is cutting 8 teeth at the same time.. 3 are through the gums, just 5 more to go....

So Ethan is on antibiotics and a whole bunch of other medicine... To make the day a little more stressful, Hannah's school phones to say she has a fever.. I immediatly got her a doctors appointment and went back to the doctor with Hannah in tow... I thought Ethan had it bad, turns out Hannah is slightly worse... She is battling to breathe as her lungs are playing up again and she has severe sinus... The poor child has so much medicine to take and to top it off she had to go to physio...

Further to the kiddies being ill, I have a lot of other stresses at the moment and just feel like hiding or getting away... But I know thats not possible so I will just smile and bear it.. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining, just venting... There are so many people out there worse off...

Anyway, now that you all have the low down, I better go and attempt the day... Have a great on everyone..

Love
Me

Happy 9 months my boy!

2009-06-02T08:46:00.003+02:00

To Our Baby Boy!

Happy 9 months for yesterday Ethan... You are growing so quickly..

Just the other day I was commenting on how you don't have a single tooth and now you are busy cutting 8...

We love you tons..

Love Mommy and Daddy....

An update... At last!

2009-05-28T14:35:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

It has been such a long time since I posted a message on our family blog and it makes me feel so guilty.. But I am here and posting..

The last 2 months have been hectic, we have been busy with all sorts of things...

Ethan is doing well, he will be 9 months on Monday, cannot believe how fast he is growing. He crawls everywhere now and doesn't leave me alone for one second.. Best I enjoy it while it lasts..

Hannah is also doing very well, talking up a storm and she is very very very busy, keeping me on my toes always..

Just wanted to give you a quick update on the family and hopefully I will be able to post pics real soon.. (My camera is broken)

Hope you all have a wonderful day & weekend.. Will post more detail soon.

Love
Us

Busy Busy Times Ahead.....

2009-04-14T08:28:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you all had a fantastic easter weekend and that the true meaning of easter was felt by all..

We had a rather busy weekend to say the least.... But all in all it was a fantastic one!

On Thursday, I rushed home to get the kiddies bathed and in their pyjamas as they were going to visit granny while Stephan and I attended the All - Hands - On - Dec - Friends Charity committee meeting, yes I am on the committee and I know I am going to enjoy it! After the kiddies were settled and ready to go, we made our way to Krugersdorp to drop them at my moms.. Hannah fell asleep in the car on the way there and I just knew we were going to have a hard time if she woke up and we left her at granny. So being the careful and quiet (ha ha - what a joke) parents we are, we tried our very best not to wake her but to no avail.. She let rip, with a load cry.. I figured that I would have to calm her before we left for the meeting.. After granny & Daddy tried to calm her and they didn't succeed, I thought that maybe a tad bit of bribery will do the trick.. So to really look like this awesome mommy, I casually strolled into the kitchen and asked Hannah if she wanted some chippies (her absolute fav) and the tears dried up and out came a smile.... Yay for mommy..

So we then left for Kerry (friend of Gillians) house in Morningside, armed with our map and the directions Kerry gave due to road closures.... Stephan and I have a history of getting lost when trying to find places because he never listens when I tell him to turn.... Then we end up arguing, but funny enough we never got lost and never argued once...

We had a great evening with Gillian & Daryl....

On Friday, I was a bit worse for wear, so we headed home from Grannys and spent the day playing with kiddies and when they went for their afternoon nap, I embroidered some facecloths for Samm's Scrub A Dub Dub project.. I am pretty far already, I have done 30 facecloths... The day was great as we spent it together as a family...

On Saturday, Stephan had to work, so I was left alone with Hannah & Ethan and they were amazing, we played a little, watched some DVDS and slept.. What a lot of special time I had to spend with my babies, I treasure every smile, every laugh and every single hug, kiss and I love you.... We missed Stephan very much though..

On Sunday, we had another quiet day, we spent most of the day with the kiddes outside playing.. Hannah loved playing in the water and Ethan enjoyed being outside.. Did I mention, Ethan is reallly trying to get theis crawling thing 100% and is moving around more.... Ethan had his first ice-cream on a cone and loved it..... It was a great day..

On Monday, Stephan had to work again, so we all went to Krugersdorp again.. Hannah, Ethan and myself went to do a little shopping in Clear Water Mall... It was fun.. Ethan was a absolute star as he slept through the whole shopping experience and Hannah entertained me by telling me she "loves me madly" - a new saying that she has picked up.. We then went back to Grannys so that Hannah could take a nap and Granny and I sat discussing all the charity projects coming up and we were trying out a few things...... We then fetched Stephan and made our way home and had a peaceful evening further....

Hope everyone had a fantastic weekend with your loved ones... Hope you all have a very blessed week..

Love US

We Honour You Today, Angel Declan Du Toit!

2009-04-08T09:42:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Today marks 2 months since the passing of Brave Little Declan Du Toit...

I just want to use today to thank God for allowing us to know and be part of Declan's short stay here on earth.. Declan did not get his miracle on earth but he received it at the very hand of our Father in Heaven!

Please take a moment today to remember Brave little Declan and all other children who have lost their battle to cancer. Also remember those fighting this horrible monster.

Please say an extra special prayer for Declan's mommy & daddy, Gillian & Daryl, that the Lord comforts them today and holds them close.

Thank you Gillian & Daryl for allowing us to be part of Declans precious life and allowing us in your hearts!

We will always remember you Angel Declan...

Love

Time for a new post!!

2009-04-07T11:50:00.007+02:00

Shopping Diva!

Ethan chewing his dummy!

Hi All,

Hope you are all well ? I think its about time to put pictures on our blog!

Things are really busy lately with all the happenings...

Samm started her new project for the year called Scrub A Dub Dub - she is going to start a facebook profile and if you want more details on the project then go visit her blogspot: http://www.deqlanhiggins.blogspot.com/ or email her on bryb@polka.co.za or at samt.etravel@galileosa.co.za

Gillian & Daryl have also got loads of projects in the pipeline for All-Hands-on-Dec-Friends, so I will post updates here about all the upcoming events but they can be viewed on the All-Hands-On-Dec-Friends facebook profile page or on the website at http://www.all-hands-on-dec.co.za/

Please support these amazing people as they help so many less fortunate children suffering from cancer. They just want to make things a little easier for these courageous warriors battling a horrible monster.

Furthermore, Hannah & Ethan are well.. Growing up so quickly, Hannah is talking so nicely, she picks up every word we say and repeats it back to us.. SO we really need to watch what we say around the little monkey.. Ethan is trying real hard to crawl but keeps falling on his face so he is very frustrated at the moment.. But all good things come in time..

Have a wonderful week and fantastic Easter Weekend.. God bless and Keep you all safe.

Love

How Clever Is Our Son!

2009-03-20T10:05:00.005+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all well and keeping warm in this odd weather.. One minute its raining and cold and the next we are dying of heat...

Anyway, coming back to the heading of the blog.. Ethan just amazes us.. He actually managed to get into the crawling position and he tried to crawl but ended falling on his face.. We are so proud of him for attempting this..

He is starting to sit really nicely now as well... I can't believe how quickly these little ones grow.. It feels like I am missing something because they learn so fast...

Both Hannah & Ethan are down with flu, so we are all not sleeping well at the moment but thats the joy of having kids..

Hope you all have a great and blessed weekend..

Love

An update!

2009-03-16T12:33:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

What a great weekend we had, it started really good....... We had a busy weekend but did things we enjoy, so it was not too tiring...

On Friday we went to visit some friends in Pretoria North and had pizza and just chatted and had some wine and relaxed.. The kids had an absolute ball, Hannah played her little heart out and Ethan just enjoyed all the faces chatting to him.. By round 8pm, Ethan was the first to go to sleep and at round 9:30, Hannah fell asleep while watching Madagascar.. This hardly ever happens while we are visiting and we took full advantage and visited until 12:15 pm, which I might add is very late for us, as our average bedtime is latest 10:00pm..........

On Saturday morning, we were up, bright & breezy.. My first alarm clock - Ethan - is awake from 05:00am and my second alarm clock - Hannah - is awake from about 06:00am.. So we do not have a choice to be up early.. I fetched Samm at round 9 am as we were going through to meet Gillian & Daryl (Parents of Declan Du Toit) to give them gifts and just chat... It was wonderful, fisrtly to catch up with Samm, we talk almost everyday, but can never catch up on everything, I spoke so much I am sure poor Samm was only happy to be rid of me when I dropped her back at home.. Ha ha! Meeting Gillian & Daryl was absolutely wonderful, they are absolutely amazing people and very strong - they spoke about their little warrior with so much love - man, my heart just broke for them..... I hate seeing people in pain, it must be the worst thing for me, and I always wish that I could help carry the pain but unfortunately not.. So, to Gillian & Daryl, two wonderful, strong people, thank you for allowing us to be part of Declan's life & journey and thanks for meeting us on Saturday...

While I was out on Saturday morning, Stephan watched the kiddies and I thought when I return home, I am going to return to absolute chaos, but I was proved wrong.. I returned to a very peaceful home, everyone was sleeping - even Stephan - how wonderful was that.. Thanks babe, from now on you are going to do a lot more alone baby sitting because you are so good at it - ha ha! We then had friends over on Saturday afternoon for a braai, but it was an early night, they left round 9pm and we were just too happy to get into bed and relax...

I slept really badly on Saturday night, had too much on my mind.... I rolled around all night, so was exhausted on Sunday.. Sunday was peaceful, we battled to get Hannah to take an afternoon nap but she finally fell asleep but when she woke up we saw that there was something up.. She was not happy, just sitting on Daddy's lap looking at us, she didn't want to eat at all, I offered two different meals and she just refused.. And its all the stuff she loves.. I gave her something for pain & fever and she wanted to get into bed @ 6:30pm already (that is not Hannah).. Through the night she had fever and battled to go to sleep - I was awake with her for most of the night - she finally fell sound asleep at round 03:45am this morning.....

She is still not well and I am taking her to the doc later tonight.. I am sure its her tonsils playing up again... But will post tomorrow on the details!

We had a good weekend and I really enjoyed my weekend for the first time in a long time.. Hope everyone else had a good weekend and rested...

Well have a blessed week and may God Bless you all!

Love
Us

The Awards Continue........

2009-03-16T10:25:00.003+02:00

Hi All,

Firstly, thank you Samm for nominating me for an award, it is much appreciated!!

Here Goes:

This award acknowledges the values that every blogger shows in his or her effort to transmit cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values every day.

Here are the rules:

Step 1: respond and rework -- answer the questions on your own blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your own invention, add one more question of your own.

Step 2: tag - eight other bloggers to do the same.

1) What are you wearing right now? Black Pants, Purple top and black sandals

2) What is your biggest fear? being alone

3) Do you nap a lot? used to! Sleep, whats that??

4) Who is the last person you hugged? Hannah, when I left for work this morning..

5) What websites to you visit when you go online? I am a blog addict and visit loads of blogs and I visit many sites that teach me a lot about cancer....especially childhood cancer..

6) What was the last item you bought? Nappies - the story of my life, but I love it!!

7) If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Ireland - its just a beautiful place...

8) If you could go to the Oscars, who would you want to sit next to? Meg Ryan - I am a huge fan

9) If there was something you could do over, what would it be? Study harder

10) What is your most frightening moment? being hijacked in front of Hannah's school while I had her in my arms..

11) What was the last movie you watched? PS. I love you - A highly recommended movie

12) What is the luckiest thing that ever happened to you? I also would not use the word lucky - but blessed - my children, Hannah & Ethan.. (Luck is not normally on my side.. ha ha)

13) If you had a whole day to yourself with no work, commitments or interruptions what would you do? spend time with my family....

14) Is there a major goal you have that you haven't yet achieved? mmmmmm - I want to do my BCOM in Marketing...

15) What is the first job you had? A cashier at a supermarket

16) What is something that those in blog land might not know about you? I have shaved all my hair off before and dyed it orange!!

17) What is something simple that relaxes you and you enjoying doing? Scrap booking or cross-stitch embroidery...

18) Do you make time for yourself everyday, and if so, what do you do? If I get a gap, which is rare, I take a long hot bath!

19.)What is the last book you read? Warning!

And My nominations are:

1) Samm Higgins from Deqlan Higgins Blog - For being a true inspiration to me and for always having such positive blog posts.. Many can learn from you Samm..

2) Gillian Meiring from All-hands-on-dec site : For your true courage and inspiraton shown through this site and for always being positive and keeping a positive spirit alive on the site.

3) Megan Du Plessis from Keatons blog - You two are a true inspiration to mothers around the world, sharing your love for Keaton for the world to see..

4) Loren Stow from Malakai Stows blog - For your amazing strength and courage you show and for the way you embrace your son and show us all the true meaning of love through your blog.

5) Elriza from Caden Pauls blog - The strength and courage you showed from the day Caden was born (3 months prem) is amazing.. You are indeed a woman of faith!

6) Loren Stow from Loren Stow Photography - for bringing out the beauty of people and their personalities through your photgraphy.. For telling storys in such a beautiful way..

I only have 6 nominations - Sorry...

ENjoy!

A newborn's conversation with God!

2009-03-13T13:05:00.004+02:00

A baby asked God, 'They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?' God said, 'Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you.'

The child further inquired. 'But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy.' God said, 'Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy.'

Again the child asked, 'And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?' God said, 'Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak..'

And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?' God said, 'Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray.'

Who will protect me?' God said, 'Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life.'

'But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore.' God said, 'Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you.' At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, 'God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name.' God said, 'You will simply call her, 'Mommy.'

Thanks for this email Samm, its too precious!

Tears, Cansa Shavathon & Climbing!

2009-03-09T08:45:00.015+02:00

Me & Stephan

Vanessa - After her hair was sprayed!

Deqlan Ross Higgins - Cancer Survivor!

Busy Deqlan!

Deqlan's Nanna & Grandpa with precious cousin Keaton!

Pieter - After having his Head sprayed

Brave Deqlan & his daddy Mark

Hannah, Mommy & Ethan - Cansa Shavathon

Happy Baby Boy!

Let me get down now!

What????

Hannah - Climbing the Burglar Bars

Hi All,

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend, ours was incredibly busy, but whats new!

Firstly to Vanessa & her family, we are so so sorry for the loss of your Ouma. We know she was treasured by you all. We pray that with time the pain heals and know that your Ouma no longer has pain.. (To all that don't know, Vanessa's Ouma passed away yesterday after a long battle with Cancer..) Ons is lief vir jou, Vanes!

Hannah has learn't an amazing new skill, that is to climb on everyting and I mean absolutely everything. On Friday I left her for a moment to quickly change Ethan's nappy, might I add, when I walked out of the lounge she was happily watching a DVD.. But when I returned, she was climbing up on the burglar bars, I nearly had a hear attack. I had these visions of her falling and knocking her teeth out or cutting herself so bad that she would need stitches.. I got a few pictures of her climbing back down, man and I thought only little boys do things like this!

On Saturday, we went to Centurion Mall to support Brave Deqlan Higgins and to honour and remember all the brave little ones that have lost their battle to cancer at the CANSA SHAVATHON.. We sprayed our hair all sorts of colours! Vanessa & Pieter were their and stood in Honour and support of her Ouma and Me, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan who stood in support of Deqlan (Brave warrior who kicked cancers butt) and in Honour of Declan Du Toit (Who is now a precious Angel) and in Honour of many who have lost their battle against cancer and to the many that have survived Cancer.... You are all an inspiration to our family and have taught me so many life lessons that I would never have learned should our paths never crossed... Thank you to Samm & her amazing family for allowing us to share in Deqlan's journey, it has been amazing watching him move from strength to strength and thank you to Gillian & Daryl for allowing us to share in Declan's journey, although the battle was lost, Declan managed to bring an amazing bunch of people together... To Vanessa, we know you are sad right now but time heals my friend and we will forever more stand and honour your Ouma in all we do for CANSA in the future..

We hope you all have an amazing week.... May those going through a tough time, know that you are in our prayers - for those that are greving, we are sending you lots of love & comfort and pray that God enfolds you in his love and for tose of you just celebrating life, know that we celebrate with you!

Be happy for one more day, one more sunshine, one more blue sky, one more moment on this earth and for one more day to tell all around you how much you care..

Love you all!

Love US

From The All-hands-on-dec site!

2009-03-03T14:23:00.002+02:00

FROM DECLAN DU TOITS SITE:

Hi Everybody

We have to postpone the Bone Marrow Stem Cell Donor Drive. We are waiting for a date when SANBS can come to us. But in the meantime, except for the DATE, here is the information you need.

Declan’s monster could not be cured with a bone marrow stem cell transplant, but a lot of his friends at Hotel Healing and at hotels all around the country, suffering from Leukaemia and other life threatening blood disorders, could be.

The drive will take place on DATE STILL TO BE DECIDED. You do NOT need to pay anything for the Declan Donor Drive, but we are looking to raise funds to cover the costs. So please speak to your bosses and friends to find out if there are some corporates who would be willing to make a donation, anything, even R50 and of course if you want to make a donation, you can, but you are not obliged.

There is a separate bank account set up for the Declan Donor Drive and after the Drive, any money not needed for the lab tests will go to The Sunflower Fund (http://www.sunflowerfund.org.za/):

FNB Featherbrooke Village Branch

Acc name: All Hands On Dec Friends

622 157 370 42

Savings

Branch code: 250 741

In the meantime if you are committed to do this when we get a date then, STEP ONE: Call The Sunflower Fund toll free number a.s.a.p. The number is 0800 12 10 82. They will go through a list of questions with you, to pre-qualify you and will give you a reference number. You must tell them it is for DECLAN DAY.

The basic criteria is, you must be aged between 18 and 50, you must be in excellent health, you must weigh more than 50kg’s and you must permanently reside in SA and plan to be for the next 3 years and lastly but most importantly, you must be committed to help ANYONE.

STEP TWO: If the call centre “approves” you, please email me on aurasa@metroweb.co.za to let me know that you have been approved and I will email you when we finally get a date to see if you can still come.

The next very important thing is that we are doing this in Declan’s memory and to carry on his legacy. Often people join the registry cos they are carried away in the moment and in the memory of someone they love and then later, in a couple of years, they may be called as a match, and they don’t feel so strongly about it anymore. This is just horrible for the families involved and even more so people’s lives are on the line. So please think very very very carefully, before you join up and make sure that you are committed for life and committed to help anyone. This is not about Declan, this is about anonymous children in the future, whose lives you can save.

STEP THREE: On the day, when we get a date, a blood sample will be taken. Since you have a needle in already, we are encouraging people to also donate blood on the day, but you don’t have to. Your sample is tissue typed and your unique details are placed on the registry. You will also be sent a donor card.

STEP FOUR – The day comes that you are a match. The odds are 1 in 100 000 that is why we need as many donors as possible. You will have to undergo a physical exam to check that you are still in the same peak physical condition you were when you signed up. If yes, then you will have to go to the hospital where the patient is, be dripped and donate for 4-6 hours. And that’s it. The family of the patient pay all the costs of your physical and travel to the hospital where their child is.

So I hope that all makes sense. Email me if you have any questions.
CANSA SHAVATHON is THIS weekend on Saturday and Sunday. Check out their website on www.shavathon.org.za to see where you can go shave or dye your hair. Daryl and I are going to Clearwater Mall on Saturday at 11am. Come and meet up with us.

We feeling better today. It is that up and down wave thing that happens. Thank you for all the messages

Love Daryl and Gillian

Happy 6 months for Yesterday, Baby Boy!

2009-03-02T12:47:00.002+02:00

To Our Absolute Pide & Joy, Our Son, Ethan

Happy 6 months angel baby! You are growing so fast it almost seems as if we are missing out on so much.

You are starting to sit so nicely and you love your Purity... Your toes are the highlight of the day and all the babbling going on, you constantly say bababababa and its too cute for words..

We love you so much and you have brought so much joy to our lives.. Enjoy growing up baby boy, but slow down a bit so we can capture every moment - ha ha - just joking!

All Our Love,

Mommy, Daddy & Hannah

Some More Pics of My babies!

2009-02-25T09:27:00.015+02:00

Hi All,

Just a quick update..

My whole family is recovering form the flu and I am not recovering, just getting worse.. But I am sure with the meds I should start feeling better real soon..

Ethan is eating like a pro, he is on purity no. 2 as no.1 just ain't enough for my big boy and he is doing so well on his Anti Reflux milk.. Hannah is starting to make real sense now when she talks and we have a conversation everyday when I fetch her from play school..

Find pictures attached of a photo shoot I had done in November 2008 and have finally got the pics, you will be amazed how my children have grown and changed...

Enjoy.. And have a blessed week..

Love Us

Count Your Blessings.....

2009-02-19T09:32:00.010+02:00

Hi All,

What a lovely day it is, maybe a bit windy, maybe 1 or 2 clouds and maybe a bit of rain later but you know what, we are alive today and we have been given the privellage of having 1 more day, 1 more sunshine.... That is what I am grateful for today....

I have been blessed along my life path in so many ways, it is so easy to loose sight of these blessings and to take each day for granted.. Everyone is guilty of that and I think its time I reflect on my blessings and be thankful for what I have.. Yeah, I know, people are probably thinking, would this woman just get over herself but if we don't share the simple things, like our blessings with someone, it is very difficult for that person to see their blessings... So here I go, a nice long post of my blessings in my life of 27 yrs!! Not quite, maybe a few years into my life but I am going to start back in my childhood dayss.. Here goes.. deep breath...

Yes, my parents got divorced when I was 2yrs old but along the way, this came with many blessings.. 1st blessing - I got given 1 x extra mommy and a little later 1x extra daddy.. I am one of the few privelaged that can say, I have 2 sets of parents - what a blessing..

2nd blessing - Along with the marraige of my Dad & Stepmother, came two little brothers for me & Sean(my older brother) - How cool - siblings to play with...

3rd blessing - Along with the marriage of my Mom & Stepfather came 2x extra older brothers & 1 x older sister - how blessed a I to have such a big family..

I was blessed with many friends in my school days, some that stuck around for a long time and others that was in my life for just a moment - 4th blessing - My many friends at school..

At the end of my matric year, 2000, I met an unbelievably amazing man, I was only 18 going on 19, but knew that he is the man for me.. We got off to a rocky start, but look at where we are today.. I married this amazing man.. 5th blessing - Stephan, my rock, my best friend , my partner and husband - what a huge blessing to be able to say that we will be marred for 4 yrs this year October and we have been together for 9 years..

And then, +/- 10 March 2006, I found out that I was about to be blessed in such a big way.. I found out that I am pregnant with my first little miracle from God, Hannah.. Wow, absolutely wonderful.. The Lord has called me to be a mommy.. What amazing news this was - 6th Blessing - Hannah, my beautiful, busy, special, amazing little light of my life.. Just before I conceived Hannah I was told that I did not ovulate and I would need treatment to help me fall pregnant - man I cried for days because I so wanted a baby.. But God had other plans and saw my hearts desires.. Funny enough, Stephan always used to say, he would love a little girl with curly red hair and guess what, God saw his hearts desires too and gave him just that..

Little did we know, that we would once again be blessed and found out on 28th January 2008 that I am expecting my second bundle of joy - May all be warned, I was on contraception and Ethan was still conceived.. Ethan Sean Ferreira was bone on the 1st September 2008 ... Our smiley baby boy, precious gift intended to be on this earth.. 7th Blessing - my beautiful red haired little boy...

I have my pigoen pair and things got a little tough but we are managing, there are many more blessings I received along the way like:

- Meeting Samm and getting to know Brave Deqlan

- Being able to share in Deqlan's journey and be part of his prayer army

- Meeting Samms amazing family

- Meeting my wonderful friend Vanessa - my shoulder to cry on and just someone to talk to when I am down

- Meeting Loren through Samm and now having the privellage of watching her amazing little boy Malakai grow & learn through their blog site

- Meeting Elriza and her little fighter Caden that was born at 28 weeks, once again, through Samm

- Meeting many warriors of cancer and sharing in their touching stories, once again, through Samm

- Having the absolute privellage of meeting Baby Declan Du Toits parents

- To have a roof over our heads and food to eat

I am truly thankful today, for all I have, all I have gained and for all I have lost.. I have learn't through mistakes and taken challenges head on.. I am grateful for time with my family and time with my friends.. I am thankful & grateful for my amazing mother, who is always there to lend a helping hand.. I am thankful for the full health of my children.. I am grateful & thankful that the Lord gave me the oppotunity to become a mommy and its a job I love..

I am grateful for my life, for who I am today and for what the future may hold.. All the above blessings and happenings in my life have shaped me to the person I am today and I am grateful for all the people that have crossed my path, be it short or long, you have made a difference in my life and for that I am forever thankful..

So, I have counted my blessing and I can truly say, I am blessed....

Please continue to pray for great results for brave Deqlan tomorrow and keep the Du Toit family in your prayers.. Please also do not forget to pray for others suffering and battling with terminal illness..

Please also pray for Vanessa's granny who is also terminally ill with cancer and they are not sure how much longer she will be with them. Pray for strength for her family and for peace and understanding.

Till later.. God Bless...

Love

Claire

PS: I will put some photos of my babies and take a good look and see how Ethan is sitting... Hooray!! He is also enjoying his solids and loves purity...

Some Pictures - Enjoy!

2009-02-17T11:36:00.018+02:00

My Serious Little man!

I am going to catch you!

Hannah having Fun!

Day dreamer!

My Serious Baby!

Groom Dancing with his mom - Boys & their Moms!

Melissa in her stunning wedding dress!

Mr & Mrs Dreyer - 1st Dance!

Look how I have grown!

Chewing!

Ethan Sleeping under the trees!!

Hannah @ A Bob The Builder Party!

An Eventful Weekend!

2009-02-16T08:46:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

What a weekend!! Busy but good!

On Friday night my dear husband arrived home and was down with flu, he felt awful and ofcourse Hannah just wanted to play and couldn't understand why daddy was feeling so terrible.

On Saturday we were up bright & breezy, since my children came along, its the absolute norm to be awake at the crack of dawn. I have made peace with the fact that I can survive on very little sleep and leftovers. We then attended Declan Du Toits memorial service at 11:00am and what a beautiful memorial it was. So full of love, peace, hope, sadness, faith and absolute calmness. I met Declan's parents briefly, and they are absolutely shattered, but are trying very hard to remain strong. I think with the prayer army that followed Declan's story, they will continue to grow stronger each day. They showed a few video clips of Declan, and what a happy little boy he was. You could see the absolute love that Declan had for his parents and the absolute love and adoration Gillian & Daryl have for Declan. Needless to say I cried throughout the service, not just because the loss of Declan is so painful but because his life was short and amazing. The earth was blessed to have such a beautiful little angel on it for a short while. At the end of the memorial, we all released balloons into the sky as a symbol of releasing Declan to the Lord. Those balloons flew high.... Just like Declan is doing right now.

After the memorial, we rushed to my mom's and dropped both my babies off as we had to be in Vereeniging for a wedding. We finally left my moms at 13:45pm and surprise surprise, the N1 south was standing still, so we were stuck in the most horrible traffic, we finally got out of that traffic at 14:30pm and had to rush to get to Vereeniging, needless to say and very embarrassing to say, we missed the entire ceremony, but made it for the reception.

Hannah & Ethan thoroughly enjoyed being with granny and granny & grandpa enjoyed them but were exhausted as they are not used to small little ones anymore.

On Sunday, we arrived home late afternoon, exhausted and Stephan feeling even worse than before. I just hope & pray the kiddies don't catch it and they remain healthy.

Please pray with us for absolutely clear results for Warrior Deqlan Higgins as they await test results. Deqlan is doing so well, please pay his blog a visit to see whatt a beautiful little boy he is: www.deglanhiggings.blogspot.com

Please go to Angel Declan Du Toits blog to see the amazing little boy that fought so hard to try beat cancer, but is now angel in heaven. Please also sign up for the bone marrow drive for the 14 March, to help save more children suffering and battling cancer.. www.all-hands-on-dec.co.za

Please also pray very hard for anyone that is battling cancer, I feel that the more aware people are of this the more prayers will go to heaven and the more people will start thinking about trying to save a life by donating blood, platelets or bone marrow.

Have a blessed week and may God keep you all safe.

Love us!

Declan Du Toit - Free from pain

2009-02-09T12:49:00.003+02:00

Hi All,

Just a quick not to please pray for Baby Declan Du Toits family as they go through this very difficult time.

Declan Du Toit went home at 11:10pm last night at the tender age of 7 months. He will be sorely missed by all.

Please pray for strength for his parents and that God wraps them up in is arms.

Thanks!
Love
Claire

An Update At Last!

2009-02-09T09:11:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all well and hope you all enjoyed the sunshine this weekend? We certainly made the most of the beautiful weather..

I have been going through a rather tough time lately, trying to figure everything out and find a balance in my life.. Well, I have done neither but what I do know is that I have two beautiful children and a wonderful husband that I am sure will help me find that perfect balance between work, home, play and spending time with my man..

I was saying to Samm on Friday that I am missing so much of my children because I work a full day and when I get home I try squeeze everything in, in just a few hours, but to no avail! I am missing small things with my son, like him trying really hard to sit etc. I am missing so much with my daughter, she surprises me everyday with a new word or sentence which i never even knew she could say.. Do you know, Hannah is saying a whole lot more Afrikaans words. I heard her count in Afrikaans for the first time ever yesterday, she only counts to two, but I was so proud and sad, because these are the little things I am missing.

I don't know why this is but life is so rushed and moms (like myself) with healthy children take for granted that tomorrow will be another day spent with our children. Just another day! I have decided after reading so many blogs where children have cancer or special needs, that I am going to make more time to just switch off and play with my babies, although it will be little time, I will try make the most of it. You never know what lies ahead, so at the end of the day, living for today matters, forget what has passed and don't worry about the future because those are the days you cannot change.. Today is the perfect way to start and make a difference.

Anyway, besides all the feelings above, we have had a great weekend. On Friday night, I went to help a friend with snacks for her sisters "Hen Party" for saturday, so Daddy had some quality time with the babies. Its always good to have a friend to just chat to sometimes - soul therapy..

On Saturday, I attended Melissa's hen party and it was really a fantastic day. I had both my babies with me, and Hannah had such a great time playing with her friends, Dominique & Aneke. Ethan was a tad misreable, as he has a cold and wasn't feeling well... The poor little guy.. They must get so frustrated when they can't breathe so nicely. Anyway needless to say, I started to have a panic attack on Saturday night, but quickly calmed down, so I could take the kiddies home & rest. Hannah had such a great time, she was exhausted and fell sound asleep, shortly after 8pm.

On Sunday, we attended a kiddies party in Pretoria North which was a wonderful day out and about. There was a jumping castle which Hannah enjoyed, as well as a swimming pool which she also loved. She ran around all day with Daddy following to make sure our princess doesn't get hurt. Ethan and I sat under the trees just enjoying the wonderful weather and he attracted all the ladies with his charming smile. He then had 2 naps under the trees... It was a wonderful day spent together as a family.

The weekends are very short, and I dread to wake up on Monday morning, knowing I have to spend yet another day, without my babies.. Another day of not seeing the smaller things but I have one thing to look forward to and that is when I get home after 4, I have the 2 most beautiful faces waiting for my arrival... The smiles and excitement that my children show when we get home from work, makes our days worthwhile! There is nothing like the love of your children, when you walk through the door after a very stressful day at the office..

My pledge for this week: To switch off completely and spend as much time possible with my babies just playing and enjoying them... to swicth the TV off and play with Hannah in her room or outside.. To watch how my precious baby boy concentrates hard to sit and then to kiss my beautiful kids goodnight after a long day and be grateful to Our Loving Father above for my two very special gifts, Hannah & Ethan..

Till next time.. Have a fantastic week. God Bless and please please please keep praying for Baby Declan Du Toit and his family and for Deqlan Higgins as his family while they await the test results on the 20th Feb - Deqlan may you forever remain NED..

Lots of love
Claire

The Joys of Daddy's Little Girl & Mommy's Little Boy!

2009-01-23T08:32:00.004+02:00

What An amaing bond: Daddy's little Girl!

I Love the Way Loren Captured our Releationship in this picture!

Hi All,

I have been blessed with the absolute pleasure of having a girl & a boy!! Whomever I meet along the way tells me how lucky I am to have a pigoen pair! I agree, I am indeed lucky and very very blessed!

There are simple joys in life and I would like to share these with you... The phrases, Daddy's little girl & Mommy's little boy are entirely true.. You never understand the concept until you experience it first hand......

The Joy's Of Daddy's Little Girl - Hannah!

Well, the title says it all, she is indeed daddy's little girl! Hannah has her daddy wrapped right around her little finger..... I get my hugs & kisses to but somehow the hugs and kisses she gives her daddy seem to be an unspoken secret between the two of them..

When Stephan's car stops at the house her eyes light and she screams at the top of her lungs - It's Daddy!! and she charges for the front door, only to find mommy (not again) has locked all the security doors again and she can't get to the front gate! This is proceeded with a lot of Mamma's & something in the line of: jahsdk slkfaslj Keys (Hannah's french) - that means, Mommy get the keys... When that gate goes open she meets her dad at the front gate with a very excited: "Hello Daddy" followed with a hug & a kiss!!

Well all of the above depends on Hannah's mood - If she has had a bad day she stays just where she is and when Daddy walks into the house and asks the question: How are you my angel?, a huge smile appears on her face.. And that there, is where I freeze the frame in my mind and I see how wonderful and full and complete pour lives are..

Now these are some of the simple joys in my life, watching an amazing bond form everyday between father & daughter... It is so amazing to see the absolute adoration Hannah has for her daddy and it is wonderful to see the absolute pride, love and adoration daddy has for Hannah...

The Joy's of Mommy's Little Boy - Ethan

Now don't understand me wrong, both Stephan and I are crazy about our kids and we do not pull the one in front of the other, but there is just that something special between dad's & daughters and moms & sons...

Our little baby, Ethan, our handsome prince.. He has an absolute killer smile... I love the way that when I walk into his room after his nap and he is laying awake trying to get his feet into his mouth, and I say, Hello my precious baby, he stops what he is doing and immediatly looks around for me... He gives me a huge smile and arches his back to say: "Mommy pick me up..."

Just before I put him in the bath, I pick him up and hold him close to me and he curls up and starts laughing.... He absolutely loves to be hugged & kissed.... I love the way he falls asleep in my arms, so peaceful and so relaxed....

I enjoy forming my everlasting bond with my little boy!! Its one amazing experience... These are just the simple joys of mommy's little boy!!

Its not always sunshine and roses but there are definately far more joys than upsets when you bring children into your life... I would never for one second change our life, we love those two precious souls given to us from Our Father above !! Its tough but someone has to do it!!

Hope you enjoyed reading this blog, just wanted to share with you what the simple joys are in our lives!!

God Bless,

Love

Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

A Right To Be Treated Fairly..........

2009-01-21T08:34:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

I had a discussion with a friend of mine yesterday and something has been laying heavy on my heart after our discussion....

As most of you know, Samms little boy Deqlan is a neuroblastoma survivor and he is on the Austism Spectrum..

We discussed the fact that we live in a very cruel world, and people especially children can be really cruel to someone who is slightly different from them... Children do not always understand when it comes to things like this but I am sure as parents we can teach our children to be fair and not too judge.

It must be one of the biggest worries a mother must have when they have a " special needs" child or a sick child.. The worry of: "Is society going to accept my child as is?" This must hurt deep down. A mothers heart is like no other, it breaks for the smallest things, like, your childs first day at school.. A mother cries about everything, and I do mean everything... So to try imagine what this must actually do to a mothers heart..

Children with special needs have every right to be in society as any other person on this earth.. People should put differences aside and interact with these amazing children.. Often people have a fear about this but if people only knew how much their social interaction with these amazing, beautiful children can help, then I think the world will be a friendlier and better place.. People must take the intiative to educate themselves and their children so that when their paths cross, they are not afraid to just lean over and say, how are you today?

I have had the absolute honour and privelage to meet children who have won battles, survived against all odds and being born with (in his mothers words) a little something extra... Deqlan - Neuroblastoma Survivor and on the Autism Spectrum - an amazing little boy with most contagious little smile, always full of energy and climbs into everyones heart the moment you meet him. Caden Paul - born at 28 weeks and weighed only 1.02kg - I don't know them personally but I followed his blog and am still following it, survived against all odds and is one of the cutest babies I have seen. Malakai Stow - Baby Boy born with that little something extra (Down Syndrome) but is 100% healthy (once again, I don't know them on a personal level, his mommy has taken photo's of my family and I religiously follow his blog) and has the most gorgeous little face with the most beautiful smile!

Through these families I have learned to have strong faith, to stand up for what you believe and to put all your trust in the Lord. These boys are destined for great things and I pray that the Lords keeps them all safe on their journeys and may they have an amazing time growing up with each other and interacting and being the best of friends..

God Bless!

Love
Claire

Tears & Celebrations!

2009-01-19T08:29:00.010+02:00

Two other precious babies: Malakai & Caden

Trying to get Keaton to sit.. ha ha

Only picture I could get of Deqlan

Hannah loves to climb in & out

Keatons Beautiful Birthday Table

Samm holding on to Keaton

Keaton, Hannah & Samm

Keaton, Hannah & Logan swimming

Hi All,

I know the heading of this blog is odd, but you will see why I have put these two together after you have read the blog!!

Well, my baby, my angel girl started creche last Monday (on my birthday) and boy was this awful. I dropped her off and she never even cried! I think I prepared myself for the worst and she surprised me! Well, it was not long and the tears streamed down my cheeks, I mean, my baby girl is in playschool now.. I cried almost the whole day, as I thought what an awful mother I am leaving my child with complete strangers, taking her out of her comfort zone.. I just kept reassuring my self that its best for her, she will learn new things!! Yeah, like that worked..

The weeke continued with each day getting tougher as Hannah started to realise whats going on and she became cligy and cried everyday after Monday.. You know, its absolutely heart wrenching to walk away from your child when they are crying.. It takes a lot of courage.. Needless to say, I cried the whole entire week!! I wonder sometimes who it affected more, me or Hannah???

On Saturday, we had 2 parties to attend. Keaton's 1st birthday and Brittny's 2nd birthday.. The one was in Centurion while the other took place in Carletonville..

We arrived at Keatons party, and just said WOW... Meagn had gone out of her way with the Noddy theme... The table for the kiddies lookedc too cute for words, there was even Noddy music playing. Hannah headed straight to the pool to play with the water. Keaton, the birthday boy was already in the pool splashing away! We could only stay at the party until 2 because we had to get on the road to our 2nd party in Carletonville! When we were leaving, Deqlan & his mommy, Samm, were so kind to see us off. Deqlan even gave Stephan high five before we left. My husband can't get over how cute and clever Deqlan is, this was Stephan real first interaction with the brave soldier!

We then arraived at Brittny's party and what was there, more water!! Hannah had an absolute ball! Needless to say, she was exhausted after these two partys and fell sound asleep in the car on our way home on Saturday night.

We had a great weekend.... And a tiring one.

God Bless & keep you all safe!

Love,

Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

Deqlan Ross Higgins - NED Forever!

2009-01-16T12:34:00.004+02:00

Brave Deqlan on his 2nd Birthday - and as we know him today!

Beautiful Deqlan and his mommy & daddy on his 1st birthday

To A Very Brave and Wonderful Little Boy, Deqlan,

WOW, 1 year since you recieved the most amazing news - NO EVIDENCE OF DISEASE!! I can just imagine the look on your mommy & daddy's face when they heard those words for the first time - the relief and ofcourse the absolute pride that shone for you that day!

Deqlan, you have fought a very tough battle and through it all you still managed to smile! I am sure there were very tough days for you! I remember all your mommy's posts on the blog and although it must have been real hard for her & your daddy, each blog had a little more positivity in, a little more faith, a little more hope... You fought and fought and fought and you conquered with God by side and your wonderful wonderful family too...

You crept into our hearts from the very first day we met you, and you continue to delight and amaze us with your intelligence, stunning smile, beautiful personality and lets not forget, your very handsome looks.. Always know that we are still 100% behind you and your family and we are absolutely honoured to be part of your strong army!

Enjoy growing up and learning new things, but most of all enjoy being the wonderful, amazing beautiful little boy you are. We look up to you and salute you, Deqlan..... You saw, you came and you conquered at a very very very young age. You are so wise in many ways and I agree with your mommy, very very clever!

Take whatever comes along in your stride and always know that your Father in Heaven is watching over every single day and he is holding you tight because you are a true gem in the Lords crown, shining so bright for the world to see...

Congratulations, brave soldier.. You are mean't for great things!

God Bless

Love,
Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

Happy 25 Months My Angel!

2009-01-15T12:37:00.002+02:00

Dear Hannah,

Happy 25 months today my angel.

You are growing so fast and learning so fast. We can now almost understand what you are saying most of the time.

Stay the sweet, precious vibrant little girl that you are. We love you unconditionally!

Love

Mommy, Daddy & Ethan

Our Photo Shoot with Loren

2009-01-07T08:33:00.019+02:00

Hi All,

Here are some of the pics Loren took of my family, some more memories......

Loren is one talented lady, we have just had 2 shoots with Loren and both were fantastic. Loren is truly blessed with this talent. ( Thanks Loren)

Enjoy the pics!

Love

Claire

Celebrations, Celebrations, Celebrations!

2009-01-05T13:44:00.007+02:00

All For Me!!

Fish!

Look at my fish tank

Look Mom, this is fun

Hannah Opening Pressies

Hi All,

It has been a long time since I updated our blog and i have so much to write about and so many different subjects. So not to confuse anyone, I will do 1 subject at a time.

Hannah's Birthday 15 December 2008:

I unfortunately had to work on this day but nonetheless tried to make it a very special day for my very special little girl.

I firts went shopping for the perfect gift, so she would have something nice to open. Need less to say her Daddy was thinking the same thing and also went shopping. I then went and bought a cake and invited friends of ours over to come and have cake and celebrate with us.

Well Daddy came home early too , so that was a surprise on its own. Daddy bought Hannah a fish tank and fish and every gadget to set - up a tropical fish tank. For those of you that don't know, Hannah is crazy about Nemo, so Daddy thought a fish tank for her room is a wonderful idea. She loved it.

Her second present was a little dressing table, with a little play play hairdryer and lipstick and curlers. Hannah loves these things. She enjoyed opening her pressies.

Later, after supper we sang Happy Birthday to her and she blew out her candles, she was incredibly shy.. I am sure she enjoyed her birthday very much..

A Trip To Tania's farm

We then decided to Tania ( a friend of mine) farm in the Freestate. What a lovely trip it was. Hannah enjoyed running around outside and playing in the water but it was incredibly hot and both kids were unhappy, they cried a lot.

Nevertheless, Hannah enjoyed all the animals and went crazy when she touched the goats...

I do have photo's from our trip to the farm but they are opn my husbands cell, so I will post photos of the farm visit as soon as he downloads them for me.

Christmas with Ouma & Oupa

We then left on the 24th December for my Dad in Tzaneen. We left at 5 am while the kids were still sleeping and had a very easy trip down to my dad.

Ouma & Oupa were very excited to see the kids and we were just as excited to go away for a bit. We arrived in Tzaneen at round 08:30am and Hannah was keen and ready to start exploring this new and exciting house.

We then opened some gifts on Christmas eve and Hannah had an absolute ball. Ethan on the other hand found the christmas wrapping more intigueing then the actual present.

On Christmas morning the kiddies opened the rest of their presents and my step mother prepared the most wonderful lunch for us to enjoy. We sat at the table and just enjoyed being together as a family.

We then left Tzaneen early on Monday 29th December @3 am and we headed home. At around 6:00am we were just an hour away from Pretoria when we got the dreaded phone call that we had been burgled and that the body coporate was not sure what the had stolen. They must have used someone very small to fit through our burglar bars because I left 1 window open for the cat and this person must have locked the back door open as I left the back door keys at home (silly me) and they went through our entire house throwing out the cupbards and drawers in all the rooms. they stole all my jewellery and nothing else. We can be thankful that that was all that was taken.

Other than that experience, we enjoyed our break.

New Year Braai

On the 31 st December we had a braai at our house for new years with a couple of friends and we had a great time..

We visited and laughed and just enjoyed each others company, needless to say we only finally got into bed after 4 am... We were a bit exhausted but all in all we had loads of fun...

January 1 - Happy 4 Months Ethan

Ethan is 4 months old now and is cuter than ever. He is smiling and laughing at every opportunity he gets. He is trying to sit and he sits well with pillows as a support. He is such an easy and content baby.

To My darling Baby Boy, Ethan,

WOW, look how you have grown precious baby boy! You entertain us everyday with your emerging personality. You are our everything.. We enjoy watching you learn new things and we can just see that Hannah is already a firm favourite in your eyes. Everytime you see your sisters face, you smile from ear to ear...

You are so precious, and absolute gift from God..

Love you precious boy...

Happy Birthday My Big Brother, Sean - 1 January 2009

Dear Sean,

A very happy birthday to you, big brother.. 29 hey, you are knocking on 30's door.. We hope you had a fantastic celebration and we wish you many many more..

May God bless you and keep you safe for many many many more years to come! We love you lots and lots and lots!

We would just like to wish you all a very Happy New Year and may all your dreams come true in 2009. May God Bless you all in abundance and my this year be fantastic.

All Our Love

Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

PS: Enjoy photo's of Hannah's birthday, will post other photo's soon!

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY PRECIOUS HANNAH!

2008-12-15T09:34:00.006+02:00

Look at you now @ 2 yrs old

Hannah 1 years old

Hannah @ 10 months - Cutie Pie

The day you were born: 15 December 2006 @ 10:20am
( A very proud granny holding you)

To Our Darling Angel, Hannah,

I found these words just for your on your very special day:

Precious Gift

When times seem to hard to bear & I feel like giving up,

I vision your beautiful face, the twinkle of your eyes and things of such,

The bond we created from my womb to the day you were born,

Is a mother and daughter bind that can never be torn

With the strength and guidance of God and the blessings He pours down from above

I want to be the best mom I can be to you and embrace you with all my love

You are as precious as a flower and as gorgeous as a rose

You have been specially made to the very tip of your nose

You are as sweet as honey, such an innocent young child

You are brighter than any star in the sky every time you smile

I want you to be proud of who you are and strive to be the best

Put forth your efforts to achieve your goals and let God do the rest

You are the most precious gift, that I have been given from above

I know these words are difficult for you to understand at the tender age of 2, but they are a heartfelt dedication just for you. You continue to fill our lives with absolute joy and tons of wonderful memories. You are the very best thing that has happened to us and we thank God everyday for allowing us to be your parents.

Enjoy your day my precious baby girl, may there be many belssings bestowed upon you from above....

Love you lots & lots!!

Love

Mommy, Daddy & Ethan

Hannah Graduates from Cot to a Bed!

2008-12-11T11:48:00.006+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all well?

We finally bought Hannah her very own bed as Ethan is gtting too big for the crib and needs the big cot and Hannah is getting too big for the cot!!

Well, what sports we had.. The bed arrived at our house on Tuesday and on Tuesday evening when daddy got home, we decided to put the bed up in Hannahs room, but we had to take the cot apart so we could move it from her room into Ethan's room because it is too big to fit through the doorways.. Well, as daddy starting taking the cot apart, Hannah started crying unconsoliably and all she wanted was her cot. Its amazing how these little ones build attachments to things.

I think we thew this little girl completely out of her comfort zone. Anyway, the tears started going away when we put the bed up in her room and put brand new bedding on for her. It became a game and she wanted to climb on and off the bed and jump on it.. Finally, bed time arrived and i started to dread what lay ahead.

I put Hannah in her bed and she was more than willingly to climb into her brandnew bed.. Stephan and I thought that this is gong well but then our little girl discovered that a bed doesn't have sides to keep her in like the cot and she climbed out of bed about 4 times to say " Hi Mommy" and run back to her room. After the 4th attempt of putting her back into the bed she fell sound asleep and slept through the entire night..

I cleaned the big cot for Ethan and put new bedding in there for him too.. He too enjoyed the new space the cot had to offer and also slept through!! Both my babies now sleep through the night.... How wonderful!

See the pictures i took of them after they had falledn sound asleep!!

God Bless

Love
Us

Hannah's 2nd Birthday Celebrations....

2008-12-10T08:18:00.011+02:00

Look at my bike!

Lets Play!

Hi Deqlan!!

Granny, Hannah & Cousin Jaydon

Our Birthday Girl

Mark & Deqlan & Logan

Hannah Openning her Pressies

Hi All,

Finally I get to sit down and update the blog with Hannah's 2nd birthday celebrations. Hannah's actual birthday is only on the 15th of December but we had the party on the 6th of December as my whole family leaves for holiday on the 13th of December and I wanted all her cousins to attend!!

Well, we arrived at the party venue at 12:45pm to do the last minute set-ups etc... My wonderful friend Vanessa made the most beautiful Nemo banner for Hannah's Nemo party!! Thank you so much once again my friend, it is really appreciated from the bottom of my heart!!

At 13:30, our guests started arriving, Hannah could not stop saying WOW!! SHe was very impressed! Hannah then discovered that there is so much more to this party venue than just the Nemo decor ad table & chairs.... She started to venture into the play area and was so excited to see the bunny's and chickens running around. She played and ran and played and ran........

By 14:00 most gusets had arrived and the children were having a brilliant time... I waited in anticipation for Deqlan ( Samm & Marks brave warrior) to arrive at Hannah's party, so I could finally introduce thei amazing little boy to my family... Everyone was amazed and so emotional as they wathed brave Deqlan run around with Samm, Mark & logan and have an absolute ball.. Thank you Samm for bringing Deqlan to Hannah's party, it was great having you guys there!!

Well a storm started brewing at round 15:00 and we had to start looking at packing up beacuse it looked as though it was going to catch us any moment... Well, thank the Lord, it missed us and Hannah could still enjoy the party venue a little more!

We left the party venue just after 16:00 and went home so Hannah could open her pressies! She said WOW after each present she opened... Sh received the cutest bike form Adri , Duncan, Triston & Jaydon and she loves riding around on it.. Bronwyn & Sean bought her a Barbie curling brush, She received the cutest bikini from Rudi, Kim, Anika & Dominique.... From Samm, Mark, Logan & brave Deqlan she received Barney books, Nemo Body wash and a Big Cook Little Cook activity book - she loves them and these are three of her favourite things... From Granny & Grandpa she received shells and sand for a sand pit... From Claire , Warren, Casey & Brittny she received a doll that she can bath.... From Great Granny she received the most beautiful dress with a new toothbrush and toothpaste.... from Brian, Marinda & kids she received more clothes & play jewellery... From Melissa & Pieter she received beautiful clothes... from Charlene, Javonne & Juan she received a Barney colouring & crayons..From Vanessa & Pieter she received her beautiful Nemo banner...Thank you all very much for her beautiful presents, she loves each and every one of them...

Our little girl was exhausted from her day of fun and she fell sound asleep at 19:00 and slept right through the night...

Thank you to everyone who celebrated her birthday with us, we appreciate it very much..

Hope you enjoyed the pictures... There will definately be more pictures to follow these..

God Bless and keep you all safe!!

Love,
Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

An Update!

2008-12-09T12:15:00.001+02:00

Hi ALl,

Hope you are all well?

Hannah had her birthday party on Saturday, i am just gathering pictures from everyone that was there as I forgot my camera at home, then i will post all the happenings of the day!

Till Then, God Bless and Keep you all safe

Love
Claire

Happy 3 Months Baby Boy!

2008-12-01T14:46:00.002+02:00

To Our Precious Baby Boy, Ethan,

WOW, 3 months already, how time has just passed by. You are getting cuter by the day with your beautiful smile and laughter.

Mommy has to have eyes everywhere as you have started rolling from your stomach to your back, you are growing so fast.

We love you with all our hearts!

God Bless baby boy!

Love,
Mommy, Daddy & Hannah

Happy 23 Months Precious Baby Girl!

2008-11-15T13:26:00.003+02:00

To Our Darling Baby Girl, Hannah

Wow, 23 months already. We can't believe how big you are getting. Each morning we wake up you have learn't something new. You are now putting sentences together and talking so nicely. We are very proud of you.

You are fast on your way to 2yrs old, where has the time gone.

We love you with all our heart and soul.

Love,
Mommy, Daddy & Ethan

An Update!

2008-11-07T20:54:00.006+02:00

Hannah having Fun

Hannah Enjoying Her Swimming Pool

Ethan

Hi All,

What a wonderful day we had today.

Firstly, Hannah & I got to spend some time with a very brave soldier, Deqlan and his very very very strong mommy, Samm. It was great seeing you guys again, thank you so much for having Hannah & I over, its always a pleasure to visit with you guys. Deqlan has grown so much and he truly has the most wonderful smile & personality. Thank you guys and lots of thanks to Bev (Deqlan's Nanna) for entertaining my little girl with all your wonderful gadgets, I truly appreciate it.

Well after our visit we came home and just relaxed a little and had a quiet day further.

Please enjoy the photo's of Hannah & Ethan and have a stunning weekend.

Love
Us

We Are Moving!

2008-11-02T20:10:00.004+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you are all well and enjoying the thunderstorms we are having. The days are unbelievably HOT HOT HOT and the rain just helps to cool things down a little. I am not complaing, warm weather means Hannah can play in water as long as she likes, and boy does she enjoy that.

We have finaly found a bigger place to move in to. The place is still in Highveld and not far from where we currently live. We are so excited and can't wait. Its unbelievable the amount of space you need when you have children. We are moving at the end of November.

We have had a great weekend, Friday night we had a friend over to visit and we had pizza (Hannah's favorite) and on Staurday we took Hannah to granny's house as we were attending a Halloween party that night.

Hannah had a ball by granny's house. She swam (granny bought her armbands) with granny in the big pool and loved it.

On Sunday, we went to fetch Hannah and took the kids for a photo shoot, Hannah smiled so nicely for the camera and they took some stunning photo's of Ethan and Hannah. I now want to book a date with Loren (friend of Samm's) to do a natural photo shoot of my family. Memories are priceless and there is no better way to capture these memories but on film and photo.

We are looking forward to month of packing and getting ready for the big move, I can't wait. Its going to be difficult to move with 2 kids but maybe we can call in a favour with Granny!!!!

Anyway have a stunning week and God Bless.

love Us

Our Baby Boy is Sick

2008-10-29T21:02:00.004+02:00

Hi All,

What a day it has been.

The day started off normlly with everyone feeling fine, we went to Pretoria East hospital to see Sharon (my colleague) who just recently had her baby.

All was well until 14:00 pm when Ethan started to cry, I thought he was just over tired and wanted to sleep, well little did I know. After him crying for an hour, I then started thinking something was wrong. I gave him panado and buscopan because I thought he was cramping.

Eventually, I rushed him to the doctor because everything I did never calmed him down. The doctor took a look at his ears and in his throat and immediatly said that He has tonsillitis & middle ear infection.

Our baby boy was in so much pain he even battled to feed. The doctor precribed some antibiotics and ear drops to numb the ears. He is now resting for the first time and he seems much calmer. Please pray that Ethan makes a speedy recovery.

Well enjoy the rain and your evening.

God Bless
Love Us

Injections & Tears!

2008-10-27T20:20:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Just a quick update tonight....

Today Ethan went for his first vaccinations and boy was it heartsore. He was smiling at the Sister just before she stuck the needle in his leg, then his smile turned to such a sad face with tears streaming down his cheeks. I was almost in tears, I wish I could take all nthe vaccinations for him but I know its for the best and its his protection against all the "baddies" out there.

On the positive side, Ethan is doing so well, he now weighs 5.7kg and is 57 cm in length, he is growing so nicely.

Hannah had an absolute ball with her nanny today, she kept her so busy. Hannah is such a busy baby girl, but thats the way we prefer it by far.

Anyway, have a fantastic week and may God bless you all.

Love Us

What we have been up to!

2008-10-26T21:19:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

It has been such a long time since I posted something on the blog. I am not much of a writer but I certainly will try to write an exciting post, ha ha!

Well where do I start................

Hannah is getting so big, I can't belive she is 22 months already, we will be celebrating her 2nd birthday very soon. She has learn't so much and continues to entertain us with her bubbly personality. Hannah is starting to string words togther to make sentences, her favourite line at this time is: Where is daddy ( or anything else she is looking for)?.. She has also learn't new words, here they are: Sleeping, kiss, toys and bum....

Hannah has finally left the dummy, she has not had her dummy for 5 days now and its going well, she no longer asks for it. We are so glad that this transition went so well. We attempted potty training but stopped for a bit because she became very frustrated. We are going to start trying again soon. We will keep you updated on the progress.

Ethan is also growing so well. He stared to smile and is starting to chat. He is such a peaceful and content baby. He is such a pleasure and an absolute blessing. One thing i can say is that boys are definately a lot different to girls, i am sure i will see that even more as Ethan grows up. We are so blessed to have a pigeon pair, best of both worlds.

We have been out and about, visiting Granny & Grandpa and just enjoying family time. I go back to work in a months time and I already know i am going to miss the children so much. I am going to treasure this last month at home with my babies before I return to work, time really flies. Its amazing how one takes time for granted. time is not on anyones side. I am learning to appreciate the time I spend with my family, Hannah & Ethan are growing so fast, I am scared I miss something.

Anyway, we would like to wish Samm, Mark & Deqlan the best of luck as they start on this new journey that lay before them. They are an incredible family. Deqlan is the most amazing, brave, happy, clever little boy we have ever met. We have learn't so much from this little boy. We are walking this road with you guys, always know you have God on your side helping make the best possible decisions for Deqlan. We know you will get through this with flying colours. Keep the positive attitude and keep your faith, there will be tough days but as a close fmaily unit, you can conquer anything. We are so proud to say that we have you guys as friends.

Hope you all have a stunning week and may God bless you all in abundance.

Love Us

Happy 22 Months, Hannah!

2008-10-15T22:43:00.002+02:00

To Our Darling Baby Girl, Hannah

Happy 22 months for today precious babay. Time is going by so quickly and you are growing up so fast.

You learn new things everyday and I am grateful to be on maternity leave now, this allowas me to spend precious time with you. I am seeing you grow & learn right before my eyes.

We love you so much abay girl, words cannot express what you mean to us. We will treasure you always and we will treasure all the time we spend with you.

All our love
Daddy, Mommy & Ethan

New Photo's to Enjoy!

2008-10-02T21:16:00.007+02:00

Ethan havng a bath
Ethan

Stephan - National Braai Day

Me & Ethan - National Braai Day

Kim & Gustav - On National Braai Day

An Update, Finally!

2008-09-19T21:15:00.003+02:00

Hi Everyone,

I finally have the time to just sit and update our blog. Sorry it has been so long but with a newborn baby and a bouncy 21 month old, you don't really get time to do these little things but i promise that I will try my best to keep the site as up to date as possible.

What an exciting time we have had over the last two weeks. We have had a ball plying and shopping and visiting granny an celebrating NATIONAL BRAAI DAY! Hannah has been so busy lately but i am not complaining as I know she is fine then!

Last weekend (21 September) we spent the weekend at home relaxing and just being together. Stephan & Hannah had an absolute ball in the garden, Stephan put our fountain up in the garden and Hannah thought this was great fun and joined in by playing in the water and mud. On the Sunday she helped her daddy wash the cars, boy was this an experience. She was soaking wet from head to toe and she was getting so cold but she insisted on being outside in the water. SHe is definately a water baby. Last week we had such great weather that Hannah spent nearly everyday playing in the water in the garden. She loves being outside and she loves water!

On Wednesday ( Heritage Day) we had a braai at a friends house, they have 2 little girls and a little boy that is just 6 weeks older than Ethan. Hannah had such a great time playing with her friends. They ended the day by bathing together and by eventually falling asleep together. It was such a wonderful day. Ethan had a bad day as he was suffering from cramps, i have now bought him some medicine for the cramping and it seems to be going much better! He is growing so fast, I weighed him last Monday and he weighed 4.1kg and he was 55 cm in length. I am not sure what his weight is now but i am sure he has done some growing.

This weekend we spent the weekend with Granny. Granny loves spending time with the kids. On Saturday when we arrived at Grannys house, Hannah couldn't wait to greet Oupa & Granny and ofcourse to run around in their very big garden, she loves it by Granny's house because she has so much space outside to just run around and so many pretty flowers to pick from Oupa's garden (ssshhh, don't tell Oupa). She wasted no time by dragging granny to the pool and getting Granny to hold her hand while she splashed on the stairs in the pool and had a swim, it is impossible to keep Hannah away from water. After all that excited, Hannah had an early night an slept well. On Sunday we had a braai and my brothers were there with my nephews, Hannah ahd a ball by running around and playing with the boys. She was exhasuted when we drove home but refused to sleep in the car, she waited until we got home before she would even think of sleeping! What a great weekend it has been!

Hannah is starting to string words together to make sentences: She says: Where is mummy (this is her dummy). Her new words that she is saying is: Car, please, fine thanks, lion, hippo. She is growing up so quickly and learning so many new things everyday, it is amazing how time flies.

Anyway, hope you enjoyed the update. Will be posting soon again.

Have a great week and God bless you all!

All our love

Claire, Stephan, Hannah & Ethan

Happy 21 Months, Hannah!!

2008-09-15T22:23:00.002+02:00

To Our Precious Baby Girl, Hannah!

Happy 21 months, Hannah. You are growing up so fast.

You continue to amaze us with you charming personality and beautiful smile. You are the absolute light of our lives and we cannot imagine life without you! Always remember that you are loved so much by mommy & daddy & Ethan!

You are our princess and our baby girl!!

Love you lots!

Love,

Mommy, Daddy & Ethan

Our Precious Children!

2008-09-14T12:06:00.013+02:00

Ethan Sean Ferreira

2008-09-03T18:44:00.008+02:00

Ethan Sean Ferreira arrived on 1st September 2008 via C-section

Weight: 3.47kg

Length: 48 cm

Welcome To The World Baby Boy!

2008-09-03T18:39:00.002+02:00

To Our Precious Darling Baby Boy, Ethan!

Welcome to the world our long awaited gift from God! We are so proud that God has chosen us to be your parents.

Your birth was a magical experience we will never forget. We love you with all our hearts and souls and can't wait to watch you grow and learn.

Hannah cannot wait to be home so she can be with you and get to know.

We love you lots!

Love Mom, Dad & Hannah

4D Scans @ 36 Weeks of Ethan!

2008-08-27T21:02:00.005+02:00

Hi All,

These are the 4D scans we had done when I was 36 weeks pregnant! Enjoy!

Update!

2008-08-27T20:46:00.003+02:00

Hi All,

Hope everyone is well? I know it has been a while since I updated the blog but I have now finally found the time to just sit and update.

Things have been quite hectic up until now. I am busy getting everything prepared and ready for Ethan. He arrives in 5 days time. We are very excited and can't wait to meet our precious little boy.

I was at the doctor today. Ethan is weighing +/- 3.2 kg but the doctor seems to think he will be bigger. All is well. I am just very uncomfortable and sore, but its nearly over.

Hannah is doing very well. She has graduated from 18-24 months clothes to 2-3yrs. She is growing so fast. SHe has learn't a couple of new words: eg: No Way, Nice, sit hierso (afrikaans), come and Oh no!! She is so cute and absolutely loves spending her time watching Happy Feet, Finding Nemo and Madagascar. Hannah dances along when the characters dance and when they are in trouble she responds with a very sad OH NO! I can't believe how fast they grow!

On Sunday we went and spent the day at Rooihuiskraal terrein, what a lovely day it was. Hannah fed the animals and she ran around and chased the buck. She had such a wonderful day in the sunshine and was absolutely exhausted at the end of the day. i took lots of pictures but left my cameras USB cable at work. I will fetch it and then post pictures.

Well the count down begins to the arrival of our precious baby boy. Wish us luck! 30My ceaser will be on Monday 1st September at 10:30am.

God Bless All and keep well!

Love
Claire, Stephan & Hannah

Happy 20 Months Hannah!

2008-08-15T15:12:00.002+02:00

To My Baby Girl, Hannah,

How time is just flying by! You are growing so fast and learning so much.

Its just the other day that you were born and placed into my arms, and i fell in love with you immediatly. A love you cannot describe to anyone, a love only a mother can understand. I won't forget the proud look on your daddy's face when you were born, He was beaming from ear to ear, His little girl had entered the world.

You are now 20 months old and have turned into such a lovely & lively toddler, somedays we can't keep up. You are learning so much! You definately have rhythem as your little dances bring a smile to our faces as we watch you enjoy the music so much.

Always remember, we love you with all our hearts. '

All our Love
Mommy & Daddy

Hannah 18 month Photo Shoot!

2008-08-14T21:34:00.004+02:00

Pictures of My 4D Scan - Eventually!!

2008-08-12T12:46:00.008+02:00

Hi All,

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend and a great start to your week. We certainly had a good weekend, but it was busy as we prepare our house with last items for the arrival of Ethan Sean Ferreira on the 1st September!

This is just a quick update. I finally managed to get my 4D scans, scanned, in order to post them on the blog. I had these scans done when i was 28 weeks pregnant and i am already 36 weeks. Time is really flying and I have 2 1/2 weeks to go before i meet my little boy. We are so excited.

I took Hannah, to Irene Dairy on Sunday to rub the cows. She loved it. She shrieked with laughter everytime she touched a cow, she chased the ducks and chickens and i had trouble keeping her away from the water. Its a pity that my "porridge brain" kicked in and i forgot to take my camera along.

Hannah is growing so fast. I can remember the day the doctors put her in my arms, I can remember how little she was. She weighed 2.9kg at birth and she was so tiny. I remember that day so well, it will forever be printed in my memory. The day my baby girl was born, what joy she has brought to our lives and she has taught us so very much.

Have a great week further! I am going to the doctor today, so will be able to update on how Ethan has grown since I last saw the doc.

God Bless & Keep safe!

Love

Claire, Stephan & Hannah

Some pictures to enjoy!

2008-08-03T13:17:00.011+02:00

Nappy Cake

Opening gifts

Hannah clapping

Hannah & the other kiddies

Hannah with her chippies

Hannah having fun

Gifts from Granny

Decor and food!

Nappy cake Made by Mom!

Stork Party, Injections & News

2008-08-03T12:32:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Apologies for only posting now. It has been very hectic at work as I am now trying to get everything done before I go on Maternity leave in 3 weeks time.

Last weekend was a busy weekend that of course left me exhausted. On Saturday morning we woke up early so we could to the mall so I could buy bigger maternity tops as my belly keeps growing.

I then made my way to Krugersdorp for my stork party. It was really a lovely afternoon with family and friends. We received such lovely gifts and lots of clothes, my little boy now has everything and we are ready for his arrival on the 1st of September. We are really excited to meet Ethan, we wonder daily what will he look like and if he will have hair but most important we pray that he is in good health. Thank you to everyone who spent the day with us, it was fun chatting to everyone and Hannah absolutely entertained everyone with dancing, clapping and just being real cute. Hannah played with all the other children and was completely exhausted when we drove home, she fell asleep instantly in the car on the way home.

On Sunday we went and did the usual grocery shopping and then went to have lunch by friends of ours. After lunch Stephan and I went home and started on the moving of furniture, disinfecting Ethan's cot so we could put his bedding in and I started washing all of Ethan's clothes and blankets. We are now ready for his arrival.

The week was real busy and exhausting, I am making sure everything is sorted before i go on maternity leave so I am not really getting achance to just take a breather. I do realise though that I must start slowing down and taking it easy, my body is really taking strain now.

On Thursday afternoon Hannah went for her last injections, two, one in each arm. This time around she cried from the very start but stopped real quickly afterwards. It still breaks my heart everytime to take her for these injections but it has to be done to keep her healthy. I just put on a brave face and let her know it is nearly over, its amazing how these little ones have so much trust in you as a parent and that they seek that reassurance, comfort and security from you. Even though you were the one holding them tight to get the injections, they still turn to you for protection. Hannah is my little girl and will stay that way forever.

The last visit to the doc confirmed that Ethan was already 2.146kg and that he is growing well, in fact he is a whole week ahead. I see the doc again on the 12 August and will then be able to do an update on how big he will be then. We are so blessed with a precious little girl and now a wonderful little boy to complete our family. I am getting real tired and sore now, although i am trying to enjoy these last 4 weeks as this will be my last pregnancy.

Well thats all the news for now. Keep well and God Bless you all!!

Love Us

Enjoy!

2008-07-21T21:31:00.007+02:00

Hannah enjoying the slide.

Attempting to Jump!

Hannah testing the trampoline

Hannah at the Party!

Hannah's Favorite Teddy - Tigger

Hannah Posing - AT LAST!

Fun & Parties

2008-07-21T09:34:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Hope everyone is well and hope everyone had a great weekend.

We had a busy weekend, out and about and enjoying family time!

Our Saturday morning started early, with Hannah waking us up at 4.00am blowing kisses and wanting to chat. We finally got her back to sleep at 5.00am and she woke up again at 6.00am, ready for the day. Daddy went off to gym and Hannah and I got ready and waited for daddy to return.

We all went off to have the car washed and then went to Casey (Hannah's cousin) birthday party. Hannah had such a blast with all the children, she ran arounf and jumped on the trampoline. She then discovered the slide and exhausted her Aunty Bronwyn by wanting to go up and down the slide. She had such a good time. Since we took her out of creche she has had minimal contact with other children, so i think she enjoyed herself so much.

We slept over at granny's on Saturday night as we were too exhausted to drive home.

On Sunday granny and i went shopping while daddy looked after Hannah. SHe loves spending time with her daddy, she can't wait for him to get home from work everyday. We then had a wonderful lunch at granny's and then left to go home.

Needless to say I was exhausted by the end of the weekend and just wanted to get into bed and sleep.

On another note: My belly seemed to have grown over the weekend. I am now very tired and battling to sleep and night. Not long to go now, and its all worth it in the end!! We can't wait for our baby boy to arrive but he must just stay where he is for another 6 weeks.

Anyway, hope you all have a great week and God Bless!

Love,

Claire, Stephan & Hannah

Happy 19 months to Hannah!

2008-07-15T15:40:00.002+02:00

Hi All,

Happy 19 months to a very special little girl!! I can't believe how time flies, just the other day, i was holding a small baby and now I have a bouncing, busy toddler! Hannah has grown so quickly and has learn't so much. She loves climbing on everything and has added two new words to her small vocab, "See" and "Say".

We had a very busy weekend. On Saturday we went to a friends birthday party and boy did Hannah keep us busy. She was up and down the driveway, hardly taking a moment just to sit and have a drink of her juice. She enjoyed all the people and loved to have a coversation with everyone.

On Sunday we had a wonderful morning at home, before we tackled the mall for a few items needed. We can't spend a great deal of time in the mall with Hannah as she hates being at the mall, she much rather prefers to be outside or playing with her toys.

My pregnancy is still going well, i am just getting very tired and sore now. I am going for anther scan next week and will then know how big Ethan is and if my c-section date will remain the 3rd September or if it will move forward. I am now 32 weeks and my belly is growing fast.

Keep well and warm and have a great week further.

God Bless!

Love Us!

Some Pictures to Enjoy!!!

2008-07-07T15:10:00.004+02:00

Choosing a DVD.

On the phone!

Hannah hugging her Care Bear

Injections!!!

2008-07-03T14:35:00.000+02:00

Hello Everyone,

Just a quick update.

I took Hannah for her 18 month injections today and what a brave girl she was. She was very weary of all those sisters in blue uniform around her and seemed quite uneasy at first, but she eventually settled and started chatting up a storm.

They weighed her and she weighs a whopping 14.40kg and is 89cm tall, the sister says it is way above average for an 18 month little girl, but she is healthy and that is all that matters. The sister got ready to inject her, she moaned after the first injection and cried a little after the second one, but then she put her beautiful smile on and walked out of Storks Nest as if nothing had happened. I am so proud of her.

My stomach is growing and getting bigger and i am getting a little more uncomfortable each passing day but the prize at the end of the day is really worth it. I can't wait for our baby boys arrival, i am really getting escited now.

Anyway, have a great week further.

Love
Stephan, Claire & Hannah

Welcome!

2008-07-02T14:49:00.000+02:00

Hello All!

Welcome to our blog! We hope you enjoy reading all the stories about our precious daughter, Hannah and our precious baby boy (still on the way - I am now 30 weeks pregnant) Ethan.

Please feel free to post comments, we would love to hear from everyone as well.

God Bless and have a great week further!

Love
Stephan, Claire & Hannah