HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Yum

I'm about to indulge in one of these - god I'm excited.

Can Not Believe I Missed This

Lorelai & Keith = Heaven

Somewhere out there is a person who is just like me! I just found a YouTube clip of the Gilmore Girls set to the music of Keith Urban!!!! Where is this person and why haven't we met? FABULOUS.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEITH URBAN

Love A List!

We spent the afternoon with some very old friends today and the boys got to discussing music (as usual). They have come up with their Top 20 favourite songs and asked Surfer Boy to send them his list. As a result we've been listening to heaps of old CD's that haven't seen the light of day for years, trying to pin point our Top 20.
It's much harder than I first thought and I mentioned that my list today might be quite different from my list next week when I remember all the songs I've forgotton - they agreed and said their lists are constantly changing.
So here's my list as of tonight -

Jen's Top 20 (Today)(in no particular order)

Cecilia - Simon & Garfunkle

I Want You Back - Hoodoo Gurus

Don't Go Now - Ratcat

Enola Gay - OMD

Shocked - Kylie Minogue

Somebody - Depeche Mode

Do You Have A Brother - The Mavis's

You Suck - The Murmers

Son Of A Preacher Man - Dusty Springfield

Mansard Roof - Vampire Weekend

There She Goes - The La's

Wish You Well - Bernard Fanning

I Want You To Want Me - Chris Isaak

Clutterbilly - (Instrumental) Keith Urban

Don't Be Cruel - Elvis Presley

Echo Beach - Martha And The Muffins

I Want Candy - Bow Wow Wow

It's A Love Thing - Keith Urban

Innocence - Sarah Buxton

So What - Pink

Goodbye 'Q'

Do you ever watch a movie or TV show and cry so hard and for so long that your eyes become puffy and sore and your nose runs while you are letting out great heaving sobs?!?

This is what happened to me tonight courtesy of One Tree Hill, Season 6 episode 3!

Thank god I was alone!

B & B

Bell and Bilson have been hitting the town together once again - I love a photo where I get two for one. As usual they look great.

I'm getting a double dose of Kristen today with her gracing the latest cover of Women's Health Magazine.

UPDATE

I have a 'pineapple condiment thingy' update! Remember my fabulous Savers purchase that I was so excited about? Well last weekend the family trooped off to 'The Famous Blue Raincoat' and look what I found....

These fabulous people have their own 'pineapple condiment thingy' which they use for their bits and pieces. They have removed the wooden dishes but they actually have the spikes that stick out of the top of the pineapple!! I was sooooo jealous. Surfer Boy took photos of the sticks so that he could make me some. He's such a lovely boy.

As we were leaving I told the 'Kaz, the lovely lady in charge that I had one too and when she discovered that I had no sticks .... SHE GAVE THEM TO ME!!!!!

I can not begin to tell you how excited I was. I am one very happy lady now that my pineapple is complete.

So a massive thank you to Kaz for her overwhelming generosity! You made my week - or year even.

Swan Lake the Chinese Way

I think this may just be the most awe inspiring thing I have ever seen!!!
Please take the time to watch it - it is amazing.

Rory's Reading List

One of the main reasons that Gilmore Girls became my 'favourite show of all time' was the fact that literature and the love of reading played such a big part in the show. As a teen I was always teased for having my nose in a book (thanks Alex) and it was great to see a character like Rory also get off on reading.

Last year I decided to follow Rory's reading list and read some of the books she had read that I hadn't already. I started with Kafka's Metamorphosis and Proust's Swann's Way. Heavy but satisfying.

It turns out that I am not the only one with this idea. There is a website dedicated to Rory's reading list and a fan has now started a Twitter which documents her journey through the list.

Next up for me is Melville's Moby Dick - Season 1, episode 1! Wish me luck.

Vampire's Look Better With A Tan

TOP BOOKS

Borders have surveyed their customer base and put out their list of the 100 Favourite Books Of All Time! Here's the Top 10 - what do you think?

1.Pride And Prejudice
by Jane Austen

2. To Kill A Mockingbird
by Harper Lee

3. Lord Of The Rings
by J. R. R. Tolkien

4.My Sister's Keeper
by Jodi Picoult

5. Twilight Saga Collection
by Stephenie Meyer

6. Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone
by J. K. Rowling

7. Time Traveler's Wife
by Audrey Niffenegger

8. Book Thief
by Markus Zusak

9. Nineteen Eighty Four
by George Orwell

10. Magician
by Raymond E. Feist

Vegie Garden

I must say that although we spent many hours and many dollars making our vegie garden, the rewards have not really lived up to expectation. Moondoggie and I decided to do some harvesting and although we had fun it was not a plentiful crop to say the least.

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We may have only produced a mouthful but I must say it was a great activity to do with the kids. The process, from buying the plants, digging the bed, watering, watching the growth, and then picking the vegies was a healthy, outdoor activity that was also heaps of fun. I think we'll persevere and see if we can produce more next time around.

Come Skate With Me

I'm feeling the need to don my skates, it has been too long and I'm having withdrawals. I found these fabulous skating posters a while ago and am contemplating framing them. I particularly love the 'Naked On Skates'! You'll be very pleased to know that I will NEVER do that!

There is relief ahead though. 'WHIP IT' is coming to a theatre near you and you had better believe that I will be there - with my skates!!! There will definitely be some skating mayhem after the movie so stay out of Yarraville for a couple of weeks.

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In case you have no idea what I am talking about - 'Whip It' is Drew Barrymore's directorial debut and stars such delights as Ellen Page (Juno) Drew herself, and Juliette Lewis.

In Bodeen, Texas, an indie-rock loving misfit finds a way of dealing with her small-town misery after she discovers a roller derby league in nearby Austin.

I can not wait - I haven't been this excited about a movie in forever.

Grand Final Day

I figure when you own the shop you can wear whatever you like to work!!

It's one of the perks. Especially when you have to work on the day your team is actually playing in the Grand Final.

(And yes, I am in fact wearing a footy jumper!)

YWPS ART SHOW

I think we must be involved with the greatest school in the Western suburbs! (Slight bias) During the last week of term The school puts on the most amazing Art Show which also doubles as a ripper of a night out. Everyone has a fantastic night with food, wine, and great music adding to the festivities. The kids produced amazing work and get a real thrill out of showing off their efforts. Next up - The Christmas Concert!

Sarah Has Popped

Charlotte Grace Prinze - she's here and she's all good.

Congratulations Sarah and Freddie.

It's Never The End Of The World

I can't believe we actually lost! Well I can believe it as I am a supporter who lived through the '80s and survived loss after loss with the wooden spoon usually the only reward. I am so proud of the Saints and although sad, I'm so impressed with my team.

Go Saints.

Now to really perk up my day - GREASE is on. No matter how often I watch it I can't help but get sucked in all over again. Thank you channel seven

I've just been catching up on all the Twitter I have missed since being away and wanted to show you Miley's new Twitter icon. I think it is a fabulous picture and although it doesn't show up when it is small, enlarged it is a ripper.

What do you think?

CARN THE SAINTS

3/4 time - 7 points up

Come on Saints - You're killing me!

SAVERS ROCKS

We went on a family excursion to Savers today - Surfer Boy and I used to love a good fossik to see what treasures we could unearth. Lately we seem to have forgotten the joy and haven't been there for ages. Today was the day and we grabbed a trolley with great excitement. The kids were allowed to choose 1 item each so they sped off to see what they could find.

Moondoggie chose a video of Batman - the one with Robin and Batgirl no less. I think it is brand new. He clutched it tight and couldn't believe his luck.

Gidget chose a madras, drop waist ra-ra skirt and hasn't taken it off since.

Surfer Boy picked up a great hoody and I?

Well I am soooo excited with my purchases.

First up I found this fabulous aeroplane material and when I got home I discovered it is a single bed doona cover so guess where that's going!

Next up I collected a lovely pile of children's books but then the most amazing piece of good luck.

I found this.....

I grew up in the 70's and my Mum had one of these that sat on our dining table and I loved it. I don't know what happened to ours - perhaps this is it. I'm yet to ask Mum but needless to say when I saw this at the back of the nic nac shelf I nearly hyperventilated. It is the most amazing piece with each section spinning individually so everyone can reach the nuts. I'm guessing it's for nibblies - nuts, olives, cheese squares, etc. I can't wait to have people over so I can fill it up. Unfortunately there is a bit missing - originally the top section - the pineapple - had wooden scoop shaped pieces which looked like the leaves of the pineapple. I think Surfer Boy is going to make me some to make the experience complete.

Suffice to say I am extremely pleased with our excursion and keep pinching myself every time I look at the pineapple condiment thingy to make sure it's real.

Nearly There

I've been posting regular photos of Sarah Michelle Geller due to her fabulous pregnancy style but now I feel emotionally invested in the birth of this baby and can't wait to see what she has in only a few weeks now. Freddie and Sarah are one of my favourite low key couples and by the looks of this latest photo it won't be long until they are parents. Sarah definitely won't be having pelvic floor issues if she keeps this up...

Sarah leaving her Pilates class.

OH WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN

If I Can't Have Heath - At Least There's Joseph

Joseph Gordon - Levitt

In The Mood For A Top 10 List - actually 15..

My Top 10 (15) Favourite Women In Literature.
(In no particular order although Anne will always be at the top!)

1. Anne Shirley - The Green Gables Series by L M Montgomery
2. Norah Linton - The Billabong Series by Mary Grant Bruce
3. Lettice Knollys - My Enemy The Queen - Victoria Holt
4. Judith Taverner - Regency Buck - Georgette Heyer
5. Darrell Rivers - Malory Towers - Enid Blyton
6. Heidi - Heidi - Johanna Spyri
7. Jo March - Little Women - Louisa May Alcott
8. Thursday Next - The Eyre Affair - Jasper Fforde
9. Gidget - Gidget - Frederick Kohner
10. Elspeth Gordie - Obernewtyn Chronicles - Isobelle Carmody
11. Claire Randall - Cross Stitch - Diana Gabaldon
12. Scarlett O'Hara - Gone With The Wind - Margret Mitchell
13. Bella Swan - Twilight Series - Stephanie Meyer
14. Elizabeth Bennett - Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austin
15. Philadelphia Gordon - All The Rivers Run - Nancy Cato

Check out Onesies

A Plethora of Great Fiction

I'm having such wonderful luck with the Young Adult Fiction I've been reading lately.

After 'Beatle Meets Destiny' a couple of friends lent me some that they had just read and we all had a big swap fest. They have all been very different but all fantastic. The first one Krissa lent me was 'Raw Blue' by Kirsty Egar, a story of a girl living on the N.S.W. coast and using her love of surfing to help her deal with the events of her past. The next book from Eliza was a book I had been looking forward to reading - 'Love Aubrey' by Suzanne LaFleur.

Something heartbreaking has happened. Eleven year old Aubrey is on her own. She's determined to hide away and take care of herself, because facing the truth is too much bear. But with the love of her Grandmother, and the letters she writes, can Aubrey begin to see thateven though she's lost everything - all is not lost?

It was a beautiful story and had me crying at inappropriate times - must remember not to read weepies at the cafe!

The book I have just finished is 'If I Stay' by Gayle Forman and I absolutely loved it. I now want to go and buy it so I will always have it in my bookshelf. That is the worst thing about sharing books, I can never bear to give them back if they are as good as this one.

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In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year- old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...
A sophisticated, layered, and heartachingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make—and the ultimate choice Mia commands.

Sarah Michelle Update

Look What I Just Got...

Hi, Jennifer Kiely.
Adam Brand (adambrand) is now following your tweets on Twitter.

Country Boys CAN Dance

Gidget became obsessed with Dancing With The Stars this season which gave me a great excuse to enjoy it with her. I haven't voted for a couple of seasons but this year I fell in love with Mr Adam Brand and have been texting his name faithfully every week.

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It turns out I was not the only one - after being out danced in the grand final tonight, he still managed to take the title due to his overwhelming voter support. His reaction was priceless. No way did he think he was in with a chance. It just goes to show that a lovable larrikan and a sweet partner can out dance anyone.

Congratulations Adam and Jade

Young Victoria

Last night I went and saw 'Young Victoria'. As I have posted a review over at G.N.O. I won't repeat myself but if you're interested in what I thought of it pop over and have a read.

http://itsournight.blogspot.com/

I Want A Loris

After my last photo I thought I'd better share something cute!

Classic Photography

I know this photo is really wrong but I couldn't stop laughing. That kid is REALLY ugly!

Top Marks Miley

When I got on Twitter today I came across this post from Miley Cyrus. Her comment about this photo is a good example of why I am happy for Miley to be a role model for my seven year old daughter.

'Just F.Y.I my legs DO NOT look like this in real life. That's the magic of a computer my friends. Just thought I would be honest. ' Miley , twitter

FIRE!!!

We had an interesting start to the day yesterday. At 6.45am there was a knock on the door which woke me out of a deep sleep. I cursed the knocker under my breathe and stumbled to the door. When I asked who it was a lady responded - 'Next door is on fire you have to get out!' Well as you can imagine that woke me up pretty effectively.
The kids had woken when they heard the knock so we all pulled on our ugg boots and jumpers, I grabbed the phone, and we headed out of the house. Sure enough next door had smoke billowing out of the roof and things didn't look good. (That's my house on the right - the one down wind of the fire)



Someone must have called the fire brigade just before I did and they turned up within minutes of us leaving the house. As they arrived flames started shooting out of the top of the roof and the wind fanned the flames toward our house. I started to feel rather stressed as I watched the flames lick our roof. The hoses came out not a minute too soon as far as our house was concerned and the firemen immediately started hosing down our roof and the side of the house while they tried to enter the burning house.
5 fire engines, three police cars and a watching helicopter later and they had the fire under control and I felt confident enough to take the kids in to our lovely neighbours for a cuppa and a breakfast of chocolates (the kids thought that was just fantastic). We weren't allowed back into the house for a couple of hours but when they accompanied me back in we found that the water damage they had warned me of had not eventuated and apart from some toxic fumes and the stink of smoke, all was well at Castle Kiely.

By lunchtime, Gidget was back at school and Moondoggie and I had a lovely view of fire trucks and firemen for most of the afternoon.

By the way the burning house was in the final stages of a major renovation and the owners were not living there. Luckily no personal items were lost, just the annoyance of lengthy delays on their now not so renovated home. I'm not sure yet what the damage is but I would assume the inside is pretty much destroyed. Funnily enough, after all the drama the workmen nailed the roof back down and from the street you would not know anything had happened.

So.. a massive thank you to the mystery lady who happened to be taking a walk and warned us of the fire, and to the fabulous firemen who saved my house!

(By the way Surfer Boy had already left for work and missed all the drama - I called him to tell him what was happening and I don't think he quite believed it until he saw the photos.)

BOOKGROUP - FINGERSMITH

It's book group tonight and we are reading the novel 'FINGERSMITH' by Sarah Waters. A few years ago we read her first book - 'Tipping The Velvet' and it was fabulous, so when I saw this in the bookshop earlier this year I had to buy it. I'm yet to find out what the other girls think but those I have spoken to throughout the month have been loving it.

I'm facilitating the discussion tonight and in my research I came across this trailer for the BBC production of 'Fingersmith'. For those of you who aren't readers, I've heard this production is fantastic, as is their 'Tipping the Velvet' production.

Wish me luck and I'll let you know what they think.

Blankie

This morning while cleaning out the top of the kids wardrobe I came across this blanket

which is the twin of the one Moondoggie had as a baby..

not looking quite the same after 5 years of extreme love! Gidget had dummies - Moondoggie has had this blanket. He sleeps with it, he carries it in his fist when he's feeling anxious, he rubs it on sores when he's hurt himself. Apparently it can fix and soothe anything.

Here he is with both of them! He was flabbergasted when he saw what it originally looked like. He keeps asking if I am sure they were exactly the same. The problem is he is now looking lovingly at the new one!! Best it disappear again before we're stuck with the stink'n blankie for another 5 years.

S.M.G. Watch

Thanks Just Jared

Beatle Meets Destiny

Imagine your name is John Lennon, only everyone calls you Beatle. And then you meet your dream girl and her name is Destiny McCartney. But what if you're already with the perfect girl?A novel about change, chance and everybody doing the wrong thing.

A friend of mine arrived for a breakfast date a week or so ago, clutching a new book with a big smile on her face. Apparently she had heard about this book somewhere and then had it recommended highly by our local bookshop guru. She couldn't wait to show me knowing how much I love young adult fiction.

The book was 'Beatle Meets Destiny' and I made her promise I could read it as soon as she's finished.

Fast forward to Sunday when Surfer Boy rang to tell me a friend of ours was in the newspaper - phone cut out - and I never found out what she was in for.

Fast forward to Sunday evening and while out with the same friend I mentioned I needed to find the paper as someone I knew was in it but I had no idea what for - when I told her who it was she shrieked!! ' THAT'S WHO WROTE MY BOOK!!!'

It turns out that the book she was so excited about is written by Gab Williams, the wife of my dear friend Wilbur.

What I love most about this is that 'Beatle Meets Destiny' is all about signs and destiny and chance and I feel that is exactly how this book came to me.

Of course I went straight across the road and bought it.

And I'm so excited to say that I absolutely love it.

I couldn't stop reading and I really cared about these characters. It was so refreshing to read a story that was not only set in such a familiar setting, but the emotions and actions of the characters were also familiar.

All the young adult fiction I have read lately deals with dark and angsty subject matter, or the bitchy youth of the upper crust (Luxe is fabulous but ridiculous!).

What I loved most about this book was that these teenagers were all well adjusted, loved, and in the most part - happy. How refreshing. They were also dealing with very similar things to what I remember dealing with waaaay back in the late 80's. I know many things have changed for teenagers since then but the basic tenets are the same, and Gab writes with a very true voice and a lot of humour.

I can't speak highly enough of 'Beatle Meets Destiny' and look forward to Gab's next book of which there had better be one or else!

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(P.S. the book has just been optioned to be made into a major feature film.)

Beautiful

Amanda Seyfried will always be Veronica Mars' very dead best friend to me and I am loving this photo from her latest photo shoot for Allure magazine.

Would you look at those eyes!