GuruAnn Blog

6 months

2009-06-17T23:30:00.001+10:00

It's been over 6 months since I posted, life is busy, I just tend to do do facebook these days in between Council Council and Council.

www.facebook.com/ann.potter

mum update

2009-01-13T01:06:00.001+11:00

As a lot of my friends know My mum has was diagnosed with bowel cancer on 1st Dec she was operated on 17th Dec, we had to go back to the hosp for the final results today, she is clear of all cancer except for there was a small spot found on a lymph node but nothing else so it looks like it hasn't spread and she has decided against chemo as the treatment is worse that the possible outcome. I respect that choice as she has had a pretty shitty 12 months and just wants some quality of life for the foreseeable future.

So it's all looking pretty positive at the moment, the Dr's can't guarantee that the cancer won't come back even with Chemo, they say that it's less likely to, but in the meantime Mum would have to endure at least 6 months of treatment with yuckky side effects, with no guarantee.

I agree with her decision as the thought of another 6 months of basically feeling like shit isn't something to look forward to without any guarantees.

So there is the update, she is still re covering from the major surgery but we are thinking positive for the moment.

Thanks to all my friends for your support.

Oh Xmas tree, Oh Xmas tree!

2008-12-23T23:29:00.003+11:00

I have to be honest and say I have had a shit of a few weeks, at the moment both Mum and Dad are in hospital, luckily the same one and we are not sure if they will be out tomorrow or not.

Mum's prognosis looks OK, but we have more to learn in January after appointments with Oncologists. Dad had to have his difibulator replaced, when they only thought they were replacing the battery.

The kids are in Sydney having fun with their cousins, they deserve to have some time out.

To my dear friends that have looked after me, and Annette and Paul have been so wonderful, making sure that I am nourished, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

MERRY XMAS EVERYONE!

Nice Xmas

2008-12-14T20:51:00.002+11:00

It was held earlier than need be, but the kids had fun and my heartfelt thanks go out to Paul and Annette for putting up with us. Jarrod could only manage 1 hour but Riley, Mum and I had a great time especially watching Riley and I with the WII.

Who knows what the next month or 2 will bring, but today was good, something we can look back and remember.

To my mum I hope the guardian Angel I gave you looks after you.

To people that keep on commenting on this blog and I have blocked, get a life, look after your own family and leave me alone.

Life in General

2008-12-11T23:43:00.002+11:00

Yesterday, don't ask me what I did, but I am sure it involved Dr's etc, today certainly did, Mum did her pre admission stuff at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, whilst I did the picking up her sisters that have travelled down from Sydney from the airport duty.

I must say that the staff at the Royal Melbourne Hospital are gems, I am sure that there maybe some that are not angels, but everyone one we met today were beautiful people, Mum is a public patient and if the service we got today is an example of the public system then it's working well. Unlike in 1999 when I wouldn't have sent my dog to that hospital.

Tomorrow a bit of respite with my work Xmas do, in the meantime, the number of residents that have contacted me to congratulate me and request help has been overwhelming, I thank god for email and SMS, as I have managed to answer them all.

Still trying to come to terms with the fact that I'll spend Xmas without my kids, but it's the best for everyone, and we'll make up for it some how.

To my wonderful friends, that have provided amasing support, thank you so much.

When choices have to be made.

2008-12-09T23:17:00.003+11:00

The gorgeous and talented surgeon says the operation has to be done next week, no question. The kids are so looking forward to going to Sydney for a break. Not going to happen , except my wonderful family say still send the kids up. I had to make the choice of not being with my kids at Xmas or them being in Sydney for the reunion. Well they are going to Sydney all booked on flights with my wonderful family looking after them. I'll miss them terribly but they deserve a good Xmas which I can't offer.

I love you J and R, and you have accepted that for this Xmas times are difficult but you will have a great time in Sydney with your family. You will need to teach me how to work the web cam so we can catch up on Xmas day.

It's a tough time today, the shock of being told that something you thought would happen in 4 weeks time is happening next week is mind boggling. I want to thank my friends that have supported me tonight>

When it rains!

2008-12-05T21:41:00.002+11:00

My mum it at a low ebb, now my dad has to go into hospital next week. Life is a challenge but my great mate Louise has provided me with a peace and tranquility kit to get by and hopefully it will help.

The new Mayor was elected last night and I must congratulate him on his fine effort in becoming the Mayor, Well done and I hope you have an extremely fulfilling year.

Now on to the other challenges that come before me in the next few months.

My Mum

2008-12-02T00:30:00.002+11:00

Today I got re elected, and today my mum got diagnosed with possible Bowel Cancer, Life can suck but we will fight it.

Elections

2008-11-30T21:50:00.002+11:00

You learn a lot about people in Elections, I have learnt who to trust and can say there are only 3 people I can fully trust.

When one of those 3 get defeated it's devastating but when you start getting text messages from someone who is celebrating their defeat it's sickening.

Well done Riley! Again

2008-11-27T21:58:00.001+11:00

She was part of a winning Netball grand final tonight, 28-26 very nail biting towards the end.

Ironically, given her brother has always been the sporting star, she has gone one better than him and won a grand final. Jarrod has played in about 9 footy/basketball/cricket grandfinals over the years and has never won one. Riley in her first GF was victorious.

Well done Riley and you played a great game.

I have a friend

2008-11-25T23:33:00.002+11:00

Called Greg, I have known Greg for about 10 years, our boys are the same age, Greg lives in Sydney and we share the same passion the Sydney Swans.

Greg calls me this arvo, hey hows it going, general banter followed, then he informs me he is getting married on Saturday. But not only that, he is getting married at the Andre Rieu concert at whatever the the olympic stadium is now called.

Only 21 guests, very intimate.

I am still spellbound at the news, not so much of the wedding but at where it's happening, I am sure it will hit the news somewhere over the weekend.

Goodluck Greg and Jean, may your life together be full of happiness.

Lancefield Killer Rd

2008-11-23T12:37:00.003+11:00

I don't really like using Lancefield Rd and luckily I don't have to very often, 3 young boys from our Footy Club were killed in a car accident on this road in 2002, and today I find out that I knew of the 2 people killed this week in another accident on this road. People are so impatient and want to overtake where they shouldn't and all of a sudden people, they were parents of 2 young kids, are dead. RIP Paul and Cheryl!

Winter returns

2008-11-22T23:20:00.002+11:00

Isn't summer supposed to be starting next week, could have fooled me. Had coffee at Just Planet this morning, and I paid for mine (unlike others apparently) and support this initiative 100%. Cricket was called off so the afternoon was spent pondering and watching the Aussies smack the Kiwi's in the first test.

Weekend frolics and more

2008-11-21T16:32:00.005+11:00

I need to look for a new job as my contract is probably not being renewed due to lack of funding. A rather attractive job has been advertised nearby so I'll apply for that and hope for the best.

Cricket and more Cricket this weekend and a fundraiser for a friend who has cancer. The weather is not looking too good either so watching B Grade cricket is going to be a challenge.

It's a shame when you hear of people drinking coffee at a local coffee shop and then walking off without paying. $6.00 really isn't that much to part with surely, but it can mean a lot to a small business owner.

On another matter how can the CEO of Telstra be justified in earning $13,000,000, this is just obscene.

Go Wes on Sunday!

Comments et al

2008-11-19T23:16:00.002+11:00

If people want to make comments on my posts fair enough, but keep to the topics please. If you want to debate or take issue with another commenter, contact them directly via their blog. Most are listed in my sidebar under Sunbury Bloggers.

Well done Jarrod

2008-11-16T22:57:00.002+11:00

Both of my kids are kicking goals at the moment.

Jarrod had an innings of 103 yesterday and was named player of the the round for the Sunbury United Cricket Club.

It was great to be able to spend the afternoon at the Cricket Club, the people are great and the sport is fantastic, a great community club.

Well done Riley!

2008-11-13T22:17:00.002+11:00

My girl has made the Grand Final for Netball, in a very exciting game tonight her team one 25-24 to get straight into the Grand Final. I had to miss a residents meeting tonight but family always comes first and I am just do proud of my star Wing Defence.

In other news, my stolen sign has turned up where I had searched previously, maybe the article in the paper stirred some consciences.

Also interesting to see that if candidates are to have websites then they should look after them and moderate them, as it would be embarrassing to have the wrong people post to them.

What next!

2008-11-13T00:04:00.002+11:00

You have to have a thick skin in this game but this takes the cake

``Comments were passed at the Remembrance Day ceremony to that of Cr Potter’s dress code- sorry to say this, but for the not so popular Hume councillor, it was horribly, disgustingly wrong. A suit, costume/slack suit would have been complimentary, she looked like an old rag doll just before thrown into the rubbish bin, not a councillor with pride in herself of appearance.’’

Sorry in future I will dress as a 70 year old, I am 40ish and dress in accordance with my age and gender, I didn't have board shorts and thongs on , I dressed for the weather.

An article in the paper again about me and all I had to do was show up. Thanks guys! I was finding it hard to issue a press release this week and you have done the work for me.

Can exhaustion kill someone?

2008-11-09T22:31:00.002+11:00

Had all my great friends and family out on the road today, letterboxing. I did 3 areas, Jarrod with an injured leg did 2 areas with his mate (thanks Zac). Overall 12,000 leaflets in letterboxes in the next 2 days, not a bad effort from volunteers.

Luckily it was a very nice day for walking.

No camera's out there today though, and they didn't even capture the printing drop off the other night to me, thanks to Pete for getting the brochures printed in lightening speed.

No I am just realising I am a bit sunburnt, and I had a hat on.

Until tomorrow or whenever.

Signs

2008-11-01T21:53:00.003+11:00

Advertising isn't cheap, and when one of my $260 signs gets stolen I get mad. Two signs side by side one gets stolen, one doesn't. Well to the people that stole my sign, cause it would take more than one, I hope you find much enjoyment in it.

The week ahead

2008-09-28T21:21:00.002+10:00

Is looking incredibly busy. Work Monday, Tues, Weds. Meeting Mon night, Council functions Wed, Thurs, Fri. Then I have to find time to be a parent, which always comes first anyway.

Jarrod has been diagnosed with having a slightly prolapsed disc in his lower back, thanks to a player kneeing him in the back at the Grand Final, so we are off to Physio for what we are praying is treatment that will allow him to carry on with his commitments to the Calder Cannons, and to top it off an ENT Surgeon has diagnosed him with Polyps, mainly due to the half dozen broken noses he has had over the last 11 years. So we are off to the Freemasons for Surgery on Thursday and then after about a week of recovery.

Riles is just plodding along, she went to the show the other day (Thanks Leeanne) and we have a Pediatrician appt on Friday for some issues she has been having. Riley will be performing with the Sunbury Divas next Sunday Afternoon at Melbourne Town Hall so that's pretty exciting.

And there is an election coming up so life will be more than busy for the next 2 months.

Another September journey

2008-09-07T22:54:00.002+10:00

Well the Swans won against North, now we are into the Semi on Friday night. I would love to see them win but the game the week after scares me, so I would rather bow out graciously on Fri night and let the Cats wipe the Bulldogs out the week after because I can't see anyone beating the Cats.

I have a choice for Fri night the Local Art Show opening or the GAME, the GAME will win out as it has been neglected for most of the year due to other commitments.

Little things amuse!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-02T23:58:00.003+10:00

Well some little things do others don't like a previous relevant community member who is no longer relevant making a claim that the local Centrelink office is going to close. This is not the case and he wasted many hours of people's time in ascertaining that this was not the case, not to mention the number of vulnerable Centrelink clients that felt threatened by this unfounded rumour.

Surfing the web tonight checking out possible election candidates I was amused by the following statement.

"After many conversations with regular train computers I agree that......"

I want to meet this train computer as they don't talk to me!

The Olympics

2008-08-09T01:21:00.002+10:00

Well the opening ceremony isn't over yet and Riley has declared she wants to be chinese because they are cool. Go Figure.

Was a long wait for the Aussies but they finally appeared, not in green and gold but in BLUE. They looked OK, I suppose.

The drummers at the beginning were the highlight.

RIP Shirley

2008-08-06T23:20:00.002+10:00

For the last 4 months a good friend of mine has nursed her mother who has cancer at her house, for the last month we have thought her death was imminent so it's been a tough time. Tonight she finally passed. To my good friend Sharon, you are an amazing woman, you have so much strength. I love you dearly and thank you for letting me help and assist you during this time.

It's been 6 months!

2008-06-05T22:41:00.002+10:00

Since I have had no functions/sporting obligations/kids activities on a weekend, but this weekend the only obligation I have is to go away to 90 mile beach and recharge my batteries.

My goals are to knit a scarf for my daughter and to read a book. I won't even get to see the Swans play on Sat night and it doesn't really bother me, I just need to have a bit of time out.

A proud mum post

2008-05-24T22:41:00.002+10:00

Today my son Jarrod went to Shepparton to see a friend, he has done this on a Saturday for the last couple of weeks. He catches the 4pm train back to Melbourne and it all runs pretty smoothly, I called him at 3.50pm to make sure he was on track to get the train and there were no problems, until 4.15 when my phone rang and Jarrod first words to me is that he is going to be home very late, at first I let fly saying how could you miss the train etc etc, then he told me to calm down and that the train had hit a person.

Well eventually after police, ambulance and coroner as the person was dead had arrived, they were allowed to get off the train to meet a bus about 1km up the line. I was trying to call him and he didn't answer his phone, so I was panicky and eventually when he did answer, he said he couldn't answer as he was helping people get off the train.

Eventually he arrives back in Sunbury, I pick him up from the station and ask more about the situation. Firstly it was a suicide, which makes me angry to start with, OK, if you want to kill yourself do it in a way that doesn't effect heaps of people.

So, I said that it was great of him to help others, I suppose everyone would have been helping out, he said no, it was only him and another guy and a girl that was a medical student that was helping an elderly lady that was on her way to Melbourne for heart surgery. Jarrod said his back was killing him as he was carrying a lot of the elderly people's luggage for them. He said a V line guy took his name and address, so he is just hoping to get his ticket refunded, I think he as least deserves that plus a letter of appreciation.

He is home, safe and sound. I think even though he is putting on the 16 year old bravado, deep down he is pretty shaken.

When he was telling me how he was helping people, I was just so proud. Even though he can give me some grief at times he is growing up to be a respectful nice young man.

Well done Jarrod,

I'll continue being slack

2007-12-26T21:53:00.002+11:00

I just don't have the motivation to keep this blog going at the moment, it may change in 2008 but I am enjoying facebook more.

We are off to Bali in 2 days time so I probably won't be doing any updates. Happy New Year to anyone who still bothers to come here.

Please think of those less fortunate than you like the Murphy family from Sunbury who lost 2 boys in a house fire last week, if you have anything to donate please go to https://www.vinnies.org.au/onlinedonations/index.cfm?state=vic&appeal=47

Outernet

2007-09-27T22:22:00.001+10:00

It's the oppostite to Internet, it means that my home conncection is crapola at the moment and I can't do much.

However I must mention a sticker I saw on a car yesterday, it read "I can't speed, as I only have 1 point left" not I WON'T, but I CAN'T

Go Johnny Go!

2007-09-17T22:44:00.000+10:00

Call the bloody election! Let me live my sorry fantasy out by you getting ousted in Benelong. GO MAXINE!

Quirky T-Shirt

2007-09-09T21:36:00.000+10:00

Witnessed at the footy last night

"John Hunt is a Coward"

Make of it what you want!

Thanks for nothing!

2007-08-05T12:29:00.000+10:00

To the fools that decided to smash up the windows in my house last night thanks for nothing. The trauma that you have caused to my family will take a long time to diffuse.

Break in Transmission

2007-08-02T22:47:00.000+10:00

I currently have that much paid work that my time leisurely surfing the internet is severly disrupted. I'll be back one day!

My newest little cousin

2007-07-28T23:50:00.000+10:00

Welcome James My 3rd Cousin, but we are a close family. Congrats Steph and Greg!

Cya Bracksy and John

2007-07-27T23:01:00.000+10:00

Today was a shock, didn't ever think that the Premier and Deputy would resign on the same day.
Both men have amazing integrity and they deserve to go out on a high note. Thank you Steve and John for the work you have done. You have big boots to fill.

Tomorrow this will be destroyed!

2007-07-21T22:02:00.000+10:00

It only took 2 hours to make and will take 10 seconds to break through tomorrow.

How much is enough?

2007-07-18T23:42:00.000+10:00

Today whilst going for training at a new job I have, I had to return to Sunbury to assist the Community Health Centre in appointing board members. One of the selection panel commented that it was surprising that some irrelevant persons didn't apply. This got me pondering, none of my opponents for council including current incumbents really do much in the way of community activity.

I am currently serve the following

Vice President of Sunbury Jnr Footy Club
Vice President of Sunbury ALP
Vice President of Sunbury Downs College Council
Member of Empowering Sunbury Committee
Member of Sunbury Festival Committee.
Member of Calder Action Group
Board Member of Sunbury Cemetery Trust
Member of VLGA

If there were more hours in the day I am sure I would be on more committees, but I can't stretch that far. I challenge any opponent of mine to match their involvement with mine, if they can then they have credentials to oppose me.

Weird jobs!

2007-07-18T00:49:00.000+10:00

I have subscribed to a part time job site and today I get this alert, it all sounds a bit weird to me.

This position is with a small business located close to Melbourne's CBD. It is a part-time position with very flexible hours. It will probably occupy around 2-4 hours of your time per week. This is a legitimate job offer open to applicants of any age, but best suited to someone who enjoys an unstructured work environment with odd job requirements at times. You will be paid by the hour. There are no set working hours and you may choose to do much of this work from your own home, provided you can visit the office once or twice a week. Position is available to be filled immediately.

You will report to the woman in this couple. Your job will be to monitor him and report to her on his correspondence. You will be responsible for opening all mail and emailing her a list of all correspondence, as well as providing copies of certain correspondence by email. You will also be responsible for verifying that he is in the location that he says he is going to be in. If you see indication of any activity that he should not be doing, you will report these things to her. You must be completely comfortable with the fact that your job activities may cause him some discomfort and embarrassment.

Additional duties such as administrative work and/or light housekeeping and gardening are available if you wish to increase your hours, but this is not required.

RIP Geoff

2007-07-15T22:51:00.000+10:00

Geoff Levey, Member of the Sunbury RSL, friend to many. He is a great loss to our community. I am very upset about this as I didn't expect it so quickly.

I've found Myspace

2007-07-14T20:51:00.000+10:00

Well everyone seems to be getting in on the act over at Myspace, so I thought I would have a look see and create my own myspace. It's only in it's infancy but I am sure I will develop it over time.

Hume Freecycle

2007-07-08T22:07:00.000+10:00

Just a promo for HumeFreecycle, instead of throwing out unwanted goods into Landfill, recycle them on Freecycle. I got rid of 2 bags of clothes today. Too Easy!

Live Earth

2007-07-08T00:00:00.000+10:00

The weather was pretty crap today so that gave me an excuse to watch nearly the entire Live Earth Concert from Sydney, and now I am watching various versions from around the globe. Interestingly the kids are asking about carbon emissions from the electricity from the concerts, however it can all be explained by trading. I hope!

I am trading, I have an LPG car

It's all good! Relevance Deprivation.

2007-07-06T23:41:00.001+10:00

Vineyard Rd is to be duplicated. It wasn't on the radar of Vic Roads or the roads minister until last year. Having some influence with the Govt its now on the radar and plans are in place. An irrelevant person is trying to claim credit for the project which is laughable, if anything he has delayed the project with the manner that he operates under. Take a lesson irrelevant person, be nice to those that matter!

Irrelevant person, I encourage you to stand for the Senate in the Federal Election, that way you can really make a difference.

Babies Babies Everywhere!

2007-07-02T20:19:00.000+10:00

Congrats to Rae and Tony on the twins.

And a special congrats to my mates JD and her partner B on arriving at their 12 week mark in their pregnancy. JD was so excited when she called me this morning with the news and given that they thought it would never happen it's just the best news, and no JD isn't Joanne D, but another friend with the same initials.

Mr J got 3 goals yesterday in a good win against Darley. We spent Saturday in Geelong in the rain watching the Swans loose again.

I am 3 weeks into a horrid flu, one day I will feel human again.

RIP Birdy

2007-06-24T23:28:00.000+10:00

Our Budgie passed away overnight, it made for a pretty emotional day. Mr J buried him, before kicking 2 goals against Gissy and I waited till Miss R got home from seeing the Choir of Hard Knocks Concert to tell her. She was upset to say the least but he had a good innings.

In news this week

2007-06-09T00:38:00.000+10:00

I have a job, I haven't wanted or needed to work for the last year, however this week I have been asked to work casually for the next 3 weeks. 3 days a week, doing I don't really know what, but, my mind will be sort of engaged. If you really want to know who I am working for, email me.

This weekend will see me travelling Melbourne for the Under 15 Metro Championships. Mr J is wearing no 19 and a bad head cold, like his mother. Anyway as long as he tries, I'll be happy.

Thanks for nothing Umpires

2007-06-04T00:42:00.000+10:00

I hate blaming umpires for losses, but last night was a terrible blight on umpiring. Quite frankly you are turning me off AFL.

Lions U16A won today, their head wasn't quite there but they did what they needed to. Next week see's us travelling the countryside from Braybrook to Montmerency for rep games and we might miss the Swans game, and I can't say that I am sorry about that, the AFL need to take a good look at the In the back rule, if Warrick Capper had of been playing now he would never have got a mark. FGS, this is footy not basketball!

Time is of the essance! Ditto!

2007-05-31T00:28:00.000+10:00

The Australian Federal Election is looming, you would have to be brain dead to not realise that I want to see the demise of the Howard Govt. to save doubling up, please go to Stoush.net for more politcal commentary, all I can say is ditto.

How dare you Therese!

2007-05-24T23:32:00.000+10:00

How dare you have your own life and you have dared to make a mistake, well it wasn't really a mistake but because you are married to Krudd it's a mistake.

You found an error after buying a business, you corrected the error, game over. But it appears not, because you are married to Krudd. How lucky you are to be married to a man that allows his wife to carry on her own live and not live in the shadow of their middle aged husband.

Go Girl!

Just a days work.

2007-05-20T23:46:00.000+10:00

Yeah the Swans won, which was unexpected. Most importantly Sunbury Lions under 16A's won and Mr J kicked 7, so he is now leading the goal kicking ladder. Wells done J

The Benelong Journey

2007-05-13T22:34:00.000+10:00

Even if Labor don't win the next election I would be happy to see Maxine McKew screw Howard. Did anyone catch the Bastard Boys tonight, I lived the dispute with a neighbour of mine, went to the docks twice to lend support, it was a pretty amazing time.

The week at was!

2007-05-11T23:16:00.000+10:00

I could post about a certain ex councillor trying to take credit for State Government announcements, but I won't as I know that it was me and Jo that placed the hard word on the Roads Minister to get the works budgeted for.

What I will talk about is the blast from the past I had tonight. Last week I decided to do some google searches on some friends from school days. I did a google search for "The Affections" as they were a band that I was close to in my school days. I then googled Wayne Hammonds who was my closest friend when I was in years 6-9. I emailed the only Wayne Hammonds I could find and got a phone call tonight saying, "Do you remember this voice", me being totally stupid, said no, but it was Wayne and after 25 years we have reconnected again.

This a very brief insight as to what has happened tonight, but talking to someone that you haven't talked to for 25 years is eerie and I am sure we will keep in touch as he sounds the same as he did 25 years ago.

Off to Sydney!

2007-04-26T23:50:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow me and Miss R are jetting off to Sydney for 4 days with our good friends S and T. S follows Melbourne and she made a suggestion that we should hit Sydney the weekend that Sydney play Melbourne so off we are going. Melbourne are 0-4 and Sydney are 2-4. I have no doubt that Melbourne will make a game of it and we could loose. Nevertheless, we will have a good girls weekend, semi educational for the girls and semi relaxation for S and I.

Back on Tues.

ANZAC Day 2007

2007-04-25T09:24:00.001+10:00

Lest we forget!

Keating the Musical

2007-04-24T23:11:00.000+10:00

I don't think there are too many days left of the comedy festival but if you can snag a ticket to Keating the Musical, do it. You won't regret it. Haven't laughed so much in ages.

13 rounds to go!

2007-04-22T23:08:00.000+10:00

First round of Junior footy today, Mr J got 4 goals and a couple of assists in todays game, our team played proudly and didn't get frustrated and have to revert to some interesting tactics. I was umpires escort and got to hear about the game from a interesting aspect. Well done boys!

12.12-84 Sunbury
def.
8.7-55 Rupertswood

Sunbury
Goal Kickers: S. Dunne 6, J. Potter 4, B. Ferrari 2
Best Players: C. Burrows, J. Potter, B. Ferrari, S. Dunne, A. Sammut, R. Lithgow
Rupertswood
Goal Kickers: T. Hine 2, E. Caddaye, R. Pattern, M. Medcraft, D. Bourne, T. Coles, J. Turner
Best Players: B. Rankin, R. Pattern, D. Morrice, T. Podolczak, J. Turner, T. Hine

Happy Birthday Miss R

2007-04-18T22:41:00.000+10:00

Hard to believe you are 11, hope you and Archie grow up together having fun.

Introducing Archie

2007-04-15T22:08:00.000+10:00

We have a new addition to the family. Archie, who is a 9 week old Whippet. We picked him up yesterday and we are now going through the puppy training bits. A whole load of soiled washing today was his efforts from last night, tonight we are trying to spend the night outside. This is proving a challenge to Archie who is not happy, but he was outside at the breeders house so it will just be a matter of getting used to it. Anyway here he is.

Well done Mr J

2007-04-15T21:58:00.000+10:00

Best First Year Player for the Ashfield Cricket Club.

Love the spin!

2007-04-14T00:24:00.000+10:00

Glad I am out of there, hope it all works for the people I left behind, I find the comment about staff redundancies amusing, they have been happening for quite a while now. Anyway, I had a good 17 years there, and so glad not to be there now.

Easter and School Holidays

2007-04-12T23:27:00.000+10:00

Where do I start, should it be last nights Ambulance experience with Miss R who thought she was having an asthma attack but it turned out to be hyperventillation, wow that is a long word. Anyway as usual, the paramedics were fantastic, turning up within 10 minutes and trying not to take her to hospital, but Miss R was scared and it needed a trip to Sunshine to calm her and we returned by 1am.

Mr J, turned 15 a few weeks ago and seems to be slightly calmer, he has played 2 trial cames for the Cannons, the first game he proved he could be a gun fullforward, scoring 4 goals, the 2nd game he was challenged in playing in a position that he has never played in, at least he is part of the squad, and it is only players that are part of the squad that will progress.

We saw the Swans win and we saw Red Hot Chili Peppers loose big time, the concert may have been good if you could see it. One more day of the holidays left then back to school on Monday.

Wake me in 2012!

2007-03-31T00:44:00.000+10:00

15 year old boys are a different race, wake me up in 5 years time please.

What a week or so!

2007-03-29T23:30:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday Mr J, you are now 15 and proving quite a challenge, just remember all we want for you is happiness and success, which doesn't mean being an academic, but not throwing your life away.

Much tragedy in Sunbury over the last week, one resident was killed in the Burnley Tunnel incident and a 2 year old girl was killed tragically in a driveway accident.

edit note: there was another death last night in Sunbury, at the corner of Lancefield Rd, I drove on this road last night and was surprised at how many people overtook me in the wet weather, PEOPLE PLEASE SLOW DOWN.

Today there was a tragic Ferry incident in Sydney. 4 people are dead and Liz Cain has suffered an amputation of part of her leg. Whilst growing up in Sydney, Liz and her brother were Ice Skating Kings, and whilst I didn't personally know them, I did occupy the same change rooms as they did and feel pretty sad tonight. To know that they carried out their skating careers whilst I gave up is dredging up memories that I don't need to dredge up. I was never as good as them and I followed a different tangent, going more for speed and hockey, but I so loved ice skating and would love to do it again,

Back from the festival!

2007-03-17T23:59:00.000+11:00

Today was day one of the Sunbury Community Festival, it was a great day weather wise and everyone seemed to have a good time. The committee worked tirelessly to get this event up and running and I congratulate them on their efforts.

Tomorrow sees me and the kids doing the PCYC fun run in the morning and then off to Day 2 of the festival.

My nephew the Footy Star

2007-03-15T23:27:00.000+11:00

If anyone watched the Footy show tonight and saw the winner, the winner was my nephew who took a spekky in some game last year.

They called him Callum Porter, but his name is Callan Potter.

Just a proud aunt spruking!

Here it is on You Tube

13th March

2007-03-13T01:30:00.000+11:00

It's my birthday and I'll cry if I wan't to, etc. I would cry too if it happened to you. Get the average 21 year old and double their age, that's where I am.

Clean Up Australia Day!

2007-03-04T22:22:00.000+11:00

It was today and the kids and I headed to Sunbury Rec Reserve to fill our bags. Well we filled more than bags, we ended up filling the boot of my car twice with bags and other rubbish such as chairs and tyres.

Memo to people dumping rubbish, it's a good idea to take out any identifying articles out of the bags before you dump them. to the people that live in a certain house in Gilchrist Ave Sunbury, you have been found out.

This afternoon was spent at a back to Bali party, and guess what, if we can save our bickkies we may be going back in January.

It's too hot

2007-02-18T21:49:00.000+11:00

I love the heat but it's even getting to me now. I don't have a pool to laze in, I don't have air conditioning except for in my car, and my son plays cricket and they play whatever the temperature is

Proud Mumma!

2007-02-09T00:37:00.000+11:00

Congrats to Miss R on being elected to the Junior School Council at her School today, she and I were both thrilled and look forward to her being presented with her badge next Monday.

More congrats to Mst J on being selected for the Calder Cannons Under 15 Developmental squad. The hard work starts now, and thats not only footy hard work, it means School as well.

Still in Bali time!

2007-02-06T21:33:00.000+11:00

Well I'm back and have been remiss in not posting since returning. To tell you the truth I have been pretty busy, unpacking, getting back into the council groove, answering lots of emails etc.

I'll try and post something meaningful soon, I promise!

Weddings Party Everything and Bye Bye

2007-01-08T21:08:00.000+11:00

Des and Jays wedding on the weekend was a fantastic event, quite a footy theme given they are both football tragics. Pictures can be seen here.

Tomorrow, we are finally taking off on our much awaited holiday, kids are very excited, as am I.

Take care everyone.

Yeah I was there

2006-12-26T21:30:00.000+11:00

When Warney got is 700th wicket and his 701, 702, 703 and 704. I wasn't there when the 2 Aussie wickets were taken late in the day. Considering we were up early and everyone was tired, it was a good day. Glad I made the effort to get there. Note to self, don't ever sit up in the back 4 rows of the Great Southern Stand, too many stairs and ramps.

Sadly the last year I will be Santa

2006-12-24T23:47:00.000+11:00

Miss R is nearly 11 but I have managed to have her still believe in Santa. I have just finished putting out the pressies, she is sound asleep. Mr nearly 15 is shocked to find he has only one present, but there are always surprises in life. Merry Xmas Everyone, stay safe in the New Year.

Poor Mr Lefty

2006-12-24T22:30:00.000+11:00

Jeremy Sears has been a great help to me in the past on some matters, whilst I may not always agree with him on the occasional issue, most I do. Jeremy acted as a moderator on my blog while I was overseas last year, although he didn't have too much to do, I was greatful to have a decent person to oversee things.

Well someone has stolen is 2 blogspot sites, anonymouslefty.blogspot.com and boltwatch.blogspot.com. JS is now writing from his new site hackedlefty.blogspot.com

This a lowlife act, and given comment on how much his blog sites are worth on Technocrati or whatever the site is called, there may be more in this than just a rival hacking in to his sites.

On leave!

2006-12-23T22:41:00.000+11:00

Well Seasons Greetings to all who read my blog. Due to a trip to the beach for a week, a wedding in Geelong and 19 days in Bali, I doubt that I will find much time to put finger to keyboard in the next month.

However I will still be reading email and answering the mobile for constituents, so my leave is only really part time.

And Supa, I will find a way to get you back from my near heart attack I had in Coles the other day ;-), if anyone wants in on the joke, feel free to email me any you will be sent an interesting SMS.

Take Care everyone, drive safely, hug your kids, have fun.

Stalking

2006-12-18T23:39:00.000+11:00

one definition is

To follow or observe (a person) persistently, especially out of obsession or derangement

On another note onya Aussies, anyone want to buy 4 tickets to the MCG test.

Kenny

2006-12-17T22:46:00.000+11:00

Have you watched Kenny, I had the opportunity to watch it this week, and while I am not sure about the lead actor winning the Best Actor Award at the recent AFI awards, I must admit to really laughing at one scene. Previously to me watching Kenny, my good friend S said to me, there is one scene in the movie that you will really crack up at, she didn't tell me the scene but when I saw it, I knew it was the scene and she later confirmed it.

In the words of Kenny, and I'll paraphrase, why bother with a divorce. Just buy a house then find someone you hate and marry them. Problem solved!

Anyway it's an OK movie, light entertainment.

Oh it's nearly Christmas, I haven't got the lights up, too little time and lack of motivation due to the vandalism of last year. However there are some fantastic displays up around Sunbury.

Mr J continued on his criketing success yesterday and bowled with the figures of 2 for 32 off 11 overs.

What a week!

2006-12-09T22:40:00.000+11:00

Congrats to Krudders and Julia for taking over the Labor Leadership, it is really the best chance we have at toppling to HoWARd government.

This week has been a whirlwind, new Labor Leadership team, new mayor and deputy mayor, congrats to Gary and Drew, as I said you are not quite the dream team but you will still come close I reckon.

The bushfires are bad, Sunbury is a blanket of smoke haze, but cricket still goes on, Mr J was not out on 4 runs today, coming in at the 7th wicket, he stood his ground in the 40 degree heat with proud parents looking on and remained not out at the end of the innings.

His game wasn't as exciting as the 2nd Ashes match which finished on Tuesday, I congratulate the Australian team for doing something I never thought could be done.

Anyway 30 sleeps to Bali!

3 for 33

2006-12-02T21:33:00.000+11:00

I am just so proud of Mr J, today he played his first open age A grade Cricket game for Ashfield and took 3 wickets for 33. He took the wicket of the best batsman in the comp, getting him out for 98, the batsman wasn't a happy chappy being bowled by a 14 year old.

For anyone in Diggers Rest today, I apologise for the increased use of a motor vehicle horn, as I got a bit excited today.

Well done J!

Go Krudders!

2006-12-01T22:40:00.000+11:00

Went to a dinner tonight, special guests were Kevin Rudd abd Julia Gillard were guests with Krudd giving a fantastic speech.

Good Luck on Monday Kevin, you are really needed to rejuvinate the ALP and to provide an alterative to JWH.

Australia gets it right on Idol this year

2006-11-26T22:15:00.000+11:00

I would have been happy for either Jess or Damien to win, but really wanted Damien to win and he did. He may not fit the mainstream of an Idol, but his voice is amazing. I am sure somewhere in this blog earlier in the year that I thought Damien was a worthy winner and am glad that I can at least judge a good talent when I see one.

WELL DONE DAMIEN!

All over bar the shouting!

2006-11-26T21:23:00.000+11:00

Well State Election 2006 is over and the results are quite pleasing. Joanne Duncan had a resounding win against the Liberals getting nearly 58% of the vote on a 2 Candidate Preferred basis. In one booth, Sunbury Heights, the independent Dave Barry actually got more votes than the Liberals, I think his interesting manner of handing out How to Votes may have had something to do with it. The candidate that couldn't spell got about 6% of the vote, mostly coming from Sunbury, with very little support in the northern part of the electorate.

Congrats Joanne, you are a fantastic person and local member and fully deserve the win. Now for some sleep!

Fundamentalist Christians

2006-11-23T22:39:00.000+11:00

No secret about my thoughts on Hillsong and the Pentecostal Churches, they have a lot of money and try to influence voting patterns with their money. I supposed I am not surprised by the following media release by the Church of Fire or whatever they call themselves.

As supa says "Some things just need to be seen and left unspoken..........................."

Nice Candidates

2006-11-22T22:30:00.000+11:00

I spent a few hours doing pre-poll voting today, Jo was there and I acted as back up.

The nicest person I have met in this election campaign is Leigh Johnson the Greens Candidate for Macedon, he is such a decent person , he is thoughtful and receptive of the community. Unlike some others.

Tried to do the right thing by the Liberal Candidate warning her that parking her vehicle on a nature strip was illegal all I copped for that was an argument about nature strips, this I found pretty disappointing.

Climate Change and Dams

2006-11-20T23:19:00.000+11:00

This is very funny!

Someone has finally listened to what I have been saying about damming the Maribyrnong, very silly idea Ted.

The Difference!

2006-11-20T22:46:00.000+11:00

Labor Promises for Sunbury

$15 million for a Day Hospital in Sunbury
$25 million to upgrade Vineyard Rd and put traffic lights at Mitchells Lane/Horne St intersection.
$1 million upgraded Police Station

Liberal Promises for Sunbury

No mention of a hospital
No mention of upgrading Vineyard Rd/Mitchells Lane
A selective High School which would mean one of the current Secondary Colleges would become unviable and most probably close (given their track record with school closures).
Sunbury out of Hume poll. Don't they realise that the LG Act doesn't allow for a poll of one suburb within a Municipality, and by advocating Sunbury out of Hume they want people to pay an extra 60% in rates. Ironically it was the Liberals that put Sunbury in Hume.

What a weekend!

2006-11-20T22:13:00.000+11:00

WE went into the city early on Saturday and did a few touristy things, went of a river cruise down the Yarra to Docklands, that was most pleasant, enjoyed Turkish entertainment at Fed Square, and then U2. Well what can I say that hasn't already been said at various sites such as Whirlpool and U2-Vertigo.com. It was the most amazing spectacular I have ever seen, the kids were thrilled with it and it well and truely lived up to everything I had heard. During the song Sunday Bloody Sunday, which was dedicated to the victims of the Bali Bombing, there were numerous messages put up on the big screen that Mr J is still talking about, messages about Peace, Tolerance etc. We stayed overnight in Melbourne, due to me having booked a room very early, as last week the cheapest room you could get in Melbourne in Sat night was over $500, I paid considerably less than that.

On Sunday we walked around the city and headed to Vic Market and did a little shopping, however due to a very big and late night the night before we were all a bit weary. We then headed to Williamstown to get some mussels from Seabounty on Wiliamstown Pier, this is somewhat of a tradition whenever we are in the City and are heading home. $4 per kilo and so fresh and tasty as well.

Now I need some sleep!

I'm Excited

2006-11-17T22:38:00.000+11:00

Because this time tomorrow we will be seeing the best concert in the World. U2. I had to forego going to the Make Poverty History Concert tonight due to this, and am now watching the DVD of the U2 Vertigo concert from Chicago last year, I can't wait.

RIP Belinda

2006-11-11T23:46:00.000+11:00

Belinda Emmett, you fought a brave and public battle, you had the love of your husband, he adored you. May you be free of pain now and have a peaceful existance.

Road Carnage

2006-11-10T14:28:00.000+11:00

Last night I attended a Macedon Electorate Candidates Forum, 6 of the Candidates were there and each gave a short speech then questions followed. Some of the more interesting ones were a question to the Liberal Candidate about the 10% tolerance on speed cameras, this question was asked by a gentleman whose father had been killed on the Calder Highway, he asked if the candidate supported the speed limit with the 10% tolerance being 121 kph. The liberal candidates answer was astounding, she said that all cars have cruise control and that most people shouldn't be worried. Now, cmon, pulleeesse. Yeah my current car has cruise control but the car I traded in a few months ago didn't and most of my friends cars don't have cruise control, plus courtesy of Supamum

CC has never been advocated as something to eliminate road accidents, some goes for speed alarms. Monash studies have shown that some 8% of single vehicle accidents are because of the complacency of CC, no need to concentrate on foot to the pedal= less concentration on surroundings in general, lessened alertness, etc. Multi vehicle accidents can be attributed to somewhere between 10%-12% of CC activated.

Another candidate was asked if he realised that all of his election signs were misspelt, Independant when it should read Independent his reply was that it was due to Murphys Law, then blamed the printer. At least Murphy could spell.

Oh Deary!

2006-11-10T14:21:00.000+11:00

It's not often, in fact I can't recall ever agreeing with Andrew Bolt, but today I do.

Punters woes!

2006-11-07T21:34:00.000+11:00

I am not a punter, only once or twice a year. Last night I went to the Hume Cup Greyhounds at The Meadows. We started out trying to get trifectas but that wasn't working, so we moved to betting quinellas, we had limited success with that strategy, however we still didn't make a killing. It was sort of fun!

Today was Cup Day, I decided to back Zipping, it came 4th so no return either.

The state election campaign is hotting up, new websites popping up here and there. You would think if you were going to provide information on a website it would at least be accurate. Any state government panel members details are publicly available, easily googled, I just can't seem to find this persons name on the panel he claims to be appointed to. I'm sure it's just a typo.

So whose ABC is it?

2006-11-01T21:48:00.000+11:00

Not the Glasshouse's anymore.

THIS IS A DISGRACE

Poor Teddy!

2006-11-01T20:38:00.000+11:00

This is a corker, Teddy Bails, doesn't even know that his own party owns a website, from Crikey today.

Misha Ketchell writes:

Has the Victorian Opposition Leader committed his first major campaign gaffe? This morning Ted Baillieu fronted interviewer Neil Mitchell on Melbourne radio station 3AW to discuss "Steve Bracks's lies" and got caught out in a fib of his own:

Baillieu: I’m saying Labor lied with regard to the tolls on the Eastlink freeway… They’ve certainly broken a lot of promises Neil... they have broken a string of promises. There’s a website dedicated to Bracks's broken promises.

Mitchell: You’re recommending people to it. Has it got anything to do with the Liberal party?

Baillieu: Not that I’m aware of…

Mitchell: Bracks broken promises, I’ve got it now, it has a new broken promise will go up on this website every day on average. So you don’t know who’s behind it?

Baillieu: I couldn’t tell you Neil… there may be somebody associated with it but it’s just a list of broken promises.

Mitchell: But is it really sensible to recommend that people to it if you don't know its accuracy?

Baillieu: Well I’m just making the point Neil that there are a lot of people who think there a lot of broken promises.

Mitchell: It’s anonymous. That’s not very good is it?

Baillieu: I haven’t looked at it in that sort of detail to see who it is. But it’s been there for a fair while. I’m aware of it.

Mitchell: It says they’ve broken over 300 promises, so as far as know it’s not the Liberal Party.

Baillieu: I don’t know the origins of it Neil.

Mitchell: You’d know if it was the Liberal Party?

Baillieu: I don’t know the origins of it.

Mitchell: But presumably if you own party was doing it they would’ve told you?

Baillieu: Well I've been referred to it. There may be some people in the Liberal party who contributed to it, I don’t know…

Mitchell: Can you tell me what’s at 104 Exhibition Street Melbourne?

Baillieu: Ah, it’s Liberal party headquarters and there are some commercial offices.

Mitchell: Who is J Scheezel?

Baillieu: Ah, Julian Scheezel, that’s our state director.

Mitchell: He’s the person who authorises this broken promises website.

Baillieu: Well there you are. I’m happy to concede that. I wasn’t aware it was being authorised in that way.

Mitchell: It should have the Liberal Party name on it… and yet they didn’t tell you they were doing it?

Nicely wrongfooted by Mitchell and not a good look for a bloke wanting to claim the moral high ground –- but it's the sort of gaffe you can expect when relations between the party leader and HQ are decidedly frosty. (Scheezel is a Costello man while Baillieu is in the Kennett camp.)

Also not likely to inspire confidence are the results of this new Morgan Poll, which found that 70% of Victorians think the ALP will win and 59% think Victoria is heading in the right direction.

But if Ted Baillieu wants some expert advice on the subject, he could do worse than read this piece from this week’s Guardian media section – Politicians take note: spin does not work on the web.

Melbourne Freecycle

2006-10-24T20:36:00.000+10:00

I am part of a yahoo group called Melbourne Oz Freecycle the description of the group is as follows

The Melbourne, Australia Freecycle(TM) Group is open to all who want to "recycle" that special something rather than throw it away. Whether it's a chair, a fax machine, piano or an old door, feel free to post it. Or maybe you're looking to acquire something yourself! Nonprofit groups are encouraged to join the network too, so they may even pick it up for you! One constraint: everything posted must be FREE.

Anyway today I noticed a very interesting request.

We are looking for a coffin please...Thank you

This email list doesn't allow for any discussion about requests, so the 11000 members must be pondering what this is all about.

76 days to go

2006-10-24T00:25:00.000+10:00

In 76 days time we will be on holidays, once again we are travelling to Bali a place near and dear to us.

Tonight I watched this video of a friends recent trip, and it has just made me more excited.

Seeya Tash

2006-10-22T21:10:00.000+10:00

One woman that I have always admired is Natashia Stott-Despoja, she has always stood up for what she believes and again she is standing up for her family and standing down from politics.

Politics isn't a family friendly game, and I don't know how a woman would manage it in Federal Parliament. Anyway well done Natashia, you have made a difference.

Comments working again

2006-10-17T22:46:00.000+10:00

Got the comments working again, I have chosen not to publish a few of them as they are not very complimentary to a few colleagues of mine.

Interesting talk to one of the local Journo's today, she was questioning me about being at the Sunbury Show wearing my councillor badge and that I dared to be seated in Joanne Duncans stand whilst having my badge on. Questioned me as to whether I was giving leaflets out, no I wasn't I was cutting up ribbons for the balloons and trying to stop the leaflets from flying off the table in the wind. Plus I was talking to members of the community about Local Government Issues.

Beta Blogger and Comments

2006-10-16T23:16:00.000+10:00

I have changed over to the new Blogger, affectionately known as Beta Blogger. It has caused a slight problem with comments that are posted (some comments were allowed through on Saturday for about a 2 hour period but have now disappeared). They are not showing up automatically, which is probably a good thing, given some of the comments that have been made. However I still have all the comments in an archive and will post them as soon as beta blogger lets me. Some of them are very interesting, if you want to read them before release, email me at ann at annpotter.info

Friday the 13th

2006-10-13T23:58:00.000+10:00

I'm over it, J decides to have an accident at school which required a trip to the Dr and an X Ray, and of course he wanted his sister to join him so in the usually brotherly fashion he assists her in injuring her finger, which required a trip to the dr and an X Ray, all seems to be OK though.