tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-316329582024-03-08T02:43:06.600-08:00Making honey...Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-13324475666223302802016-01-20T16:11:00.004-08:002016-01-20T16:11:55.733-08:00We've moved....We've moved our blog over to our website and we will be writing and sharing lots more soon. Please join us at <a href="https://www.honeybeetoys.com.au/">https://www.honeybeetoys.com.au/</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZGaVrCkT08/VqAiQye-lKI/AAAAAAAABaE/0dyAqciOI4c/s1600/grimms%2Bspring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KZGaVrCkT08/VqAiQye-lKI/AAAAAAAABaE/0dyAqciOI4c/s320/grimms%2Bspring.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-61902535814675187642010-10-30T17:12:00.000-07:002010-10-30T17:12:08.629-07:00The Twelve Blessing of Childhood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/TMy0N5IGDUI/AAAAAAAABFw/K2FZe0Noqu0/s1600/sleeping-beauty-book-500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/TMy0N5IGDUI/AAAAAAAABFw/K2FZe0Noqu0/s320/sleeping-beauty-book-500.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>Hi there everyone<br />
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You may have noticed by now that Making Honey is having a rest. I just can't keep up with two blogs, a website, full-time work at the shop and being the mum I want to be as well. But do please come over to the <a href="http://honeybeetoys.blogspot.com/">Story Tree at Honeybee</a> and join me there. I have moved my lovely felted banner over there too.<br />
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Today we are featuring the first of our articles from Amber at Mama Moontime on the Twelve Blessings of Childhood. <br />
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And in the next few weeks we will be sharing ideas for a peaceful Advent...<br />
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warmest hugs to all my old friends hereMelissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-72155352389461279472010-06-09T23:36:00.000-07:002010-06-09T23:41:56.900-07:00Winter GiveawayJust wanted to let all my friends over here know that we are having a little winter giveaway over at the Honeybee Toys blog...thought you might like to check it out. <a href="http://honeybeetoys.blogspot.com/">http://honeybeetoys.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><br />Hope those of you in the Southern Hemisphere are enjoying this wonderful winter rain!!!! My garden hasn't looked so green for years!!!Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-77492011149390285752010-04-28T04:50:00.001-07:002010-04-28T04:55:27.020-07:00Counting my blessings...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S9giAZp6UoI/AAAAAAAAAuE/AU5VfYZILHc/s1600/erin+rose.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 226px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465155538096116354" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S9giAZp6UoI/AAAAAAAAAuE/AU5VfYZILHc/s400/erin+rose.JPG" /></a><br /><div>In 2 weeks my first little baby will be 12! Yes, it might be a cliche, but it honestly seems like yesterday I was holding her as a little baby in my arms. Still the same blue eyes and sweet and honest soul! With Mother's Day to share on Sunday and her birthday the week after I am quietly counting the many blessings of being a mother, and still remembering to cherish every day, every moment....</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-16350088246917211102010-03-28T03:21:00.000-07:002010-03-28T03:27:49.706-07:00Palm Sunday Blessings...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68u_hEUM2I/AAAAAAAAAtk/_3pYPNf5D7s/s1600/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+121.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68u_hEUM2I/AAAAAAAAAtk/_3pYPNf5D7s/s400/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+121.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453629342512067426" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68u_BAqFhI/AAAAAAAAAtc/L4bitjf3OWk/s1600/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+120.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68u_BAqFhI/AAAAAAAAAtc/L4bitjf3OWk/s400/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+120.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453629333906789906" /></a><br />And today we transformed our seasonal table for Palm Sunday. Making these sacred spaces in our home has brought us so many special times together, we have been doing this for 10 years now and we all look forward to it so much...whatever your own traditions are, it's nourishing for the soul.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-29899869434286331722010-03-28T03:10:00.000-07:002010-03-28T03:21:08.737-07:00Our gateway to Easter...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68s6X2sv-I/AAAAAAAAAtU/iP8Ariq54k0/s1600/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+113.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68s6X2sv-I/AAAAAAAAAtU/iP8Ariq54k0/s400/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+113.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453627055116435426" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68s50ptReI/AAAAAAAAAtM/W-qu8scj6KA/s1600/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+110.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68s50ptReI/AAAAAAAAAtM/W-qu8scj6KA/s400/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+110.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453627045666702818" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68sVM5VKsI/AAAAAAAAAs8/91RpmJm0yig/s1600/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+097.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/S68sVM5VKsI/AAAAAAAAAs8/91RpmJm0yig/s400/Melissa%27s+Photo%27s+097.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453626416519523010" /></a><br />Everyone who knows me well, knows this is my favourite time of year. Somehow the turning of leaves, the gentleness of the light, reflects the sacredness of this time.<div><br /></div><div>Thank you to the beautiful BHPS teachers who performed this play against the backdrop of the dawn light on Friday - it was truly moving, and a beautiful way to move into Easter. The children sat transfixed and we all enjoyed a feast of hot cross buns for breakfast afterwards.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-89457825477766027442009-09-30T05:43:00.000-07:002009-09-30T05:57:44.920-07:00My love to the people of Samoa<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SsNUEJ4WHYI/AAAAAAAAAs0/u2nuAZQa9dQ/s1600-h/samoa.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387242009613704578" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SsNUEJ4WHYI/AAAAAAAAAs0/u2nuAZQa9dQ/s400/samoa.jpg" /></a><br /><div></div><div></div><div>Some years ago I had the privilege of holidaying in Western Samoa. It was by far the friendliest place I have ever visited. I attended a church service one Sunday morning and was touched by the beauty of the singing and the open-heartedness of the people. I was instantly befriended by a young woman, taken to her father's home, bought food, and welcomed with open arms in her village. A few days later, this same young woman took me to a waterfall, where we slid down the rocks together into the pool below. Her smile was as wide as the sky.</div><div> </div><div>My prayers, thoughts and love go out to this young woman and her family and all the Samoan people there who have been affected by the Tsunami today. I hope their amazing sense of faith and spirit, and their abundant love gives them much strength. And may their enormous generosity be returned to them now in their time of need.</div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-61739251383817610312009-09-30T04:03:00.000-07:002009-09-30T04:06:57.761-07:00Wordless Wednesday...a spontaneous moment<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SsM7r7IOTTI/AAAAAAAAAss/8foki_kluos/s1600-h/CIMG1792.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387215205057842482" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SsM7r7IOTTI/AAAAAAAAAss/8foki_kluos/s400/CIMG1792.JPG" /></a><br /><div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-15210424678304746762009-09-13T21:54:00.000-07:002009-09-13T22:12:20.376-07:00Farm Girls<div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381185368378981954" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3PlPDCPkI/AAAAAAAAArE/Ez2k3FgJ9yE/s400/erin+in+barn.JPG" /><br /><div>The coming of Spring for us always features a visit to <a href="http://www.bundoorapark.com.au/Page/Page.asp?Page_Id=66&h=0">Bundoora farm</a>, and feeding time for the lambs and kids.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3OqnpGZ6I/AAAAAAAAAq8/Iz-1ZhPYh1o/s1600-h/CIMG1733-1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381184361368807330" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3OqnpGZ6I/AAAAAAAAAq8/Iz-1ZhPYh1o/s400/CIMG1733-1.JPG" /></a></div><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381184352354825586" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3OqGD_9XI/AAAAAAAAAq0/S3QpanLS-j0/s400/CIMG1724-1.JPG" /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381184343978562914" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3Opm28VWI/AAAAAAAAAqs/oBXDpsb_-yA/s400/CIMG1726.JPG" /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381184337348753762" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3OpOKReWI/AAAAAAAAAqk/usgKPORpwlk/s400/CIMG1722.JPG" /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381184326979522242" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3OoniDjsI/AAAAAAAAAqc/bdTO0fxOwmA/s400/CIMG1718-1.JPG" /> <div>While the girls galloped around freely like two Spring fillies, I soaked up the warm sun on my back with a good light hearted (and long overdue) read with the<a href="http://www.amazon.com/No-Ladies-Detective-Agency-Book/dp/1400034779"> No 1 Ladies Detective Agency</a>. This little hen decided to join me. The joys of Spring!</div><div> </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381185376139005026" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sq3Plr9KzGI/AAAAAAAAArM/4LJ2YPbaog8/s400/CIMG1735.JPG" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-24135423329752374202009-09-13T06:47:00.000-07:002009-09-13T06:59:59.155-07:00My Story Tree Blog<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sqz6Pd7aZWI/AAAAAAAAAqU/WSRlaqroAMI/s1600-h/CIMG1715-1.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380950798439703906" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sqz6Pd7aZWI/AAAAAAAAAqU/WSRlaqroAMI/s400/CIMG1715-1.JPG" /></a><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380950529977709634" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sqz5_11FdEI/AAAAAAAAAqM/F6tuv_b8CaY/s400/storytree2" /><br /><div>My toy shop blog <em>The Story Tree</em> was going through a bit of renewal today...it must be Spring! </div><br /><div>It takes a while for a blog to find it's voice, well at least that's my experience. I've decided that the only way I can write is from the heart, and I would really like to write about what has inspired us to "play" as a family, the inspiration we have found from the work of Rudolf Steiner, and also hear stories from our customers too. My daughter was happy to pose for a photo or two, and she might even write some book reviews.</div><div> </div><div>It's taken all afternoon, but I'm fairly happy with it, except for the banner which I have an idea for...</div><br /><div>Here 'tis so far <a href="http://honeybeetoys.blogspot.com/">http://honeybeetoys.blogspot.com/</a></div><div> </div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-9938972156403441832009-09-10T05:10:00.001-07:002009-09-10T05:14:01.230-07:00Book Week<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sqjtf2zOtlI/AAAAAAAAAnk/jUXBgJm4BdE/s1600-h/DSCN0188.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379810886436173394" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sqjtf2zOtlI/AAAAAAAAAnk/jUXBgJm4BdE/s400/DSCN0188.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Introducing Miss Elizabeth Bennett...</div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-35272207835739295062009-09-07T18:46:00.000-07:002009-09-08T00:25:52.330-07:00Winter in retrospect...Part 3...winter by the sea...<div><div><div>My Dad was diagnosed with Prostrate Cancer a few years back (he's taking Chinese herbs and it's not getting any worse) but as he turns 85 this year, we are conscious of spending as much time as possible with him. So, when T had to pick up her new glasses all the way down at Queenscliffe (3 hours drive) we decided to make it an adventure with Papa!<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>When we arrived the first thing we did was head for the beach - it was SO cold but that didn't stop the girls wanting to explore.</div><br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378929507952138674" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXL44FambI/AAAAAAAAAkk/oiy2_Bm8gKE/s400/CIMG1602.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378929516611582674" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXL5YV_OtI/AAAAAAAAAks/GbENbTu2WEY/s400/CIMG1603.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378929523258052914" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXL5xGoUTI/AAAAAAAAAk0/xLzRC0BsxUQ/s400/CIMG1604.JPG" /><br />We had cosy "<a href="http://www.queenscliffcottages.com.au/">Hideaway</a>" Cottage waiting for us. I really enjoyed being here, it was so simple and peaceful and set me reflecting about all the clutter we gather in our lives.</div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378929534359411442" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXL6adZmvI/AAAAAAAAAk8/KS5P6NBNvxQ/s400/CIMG1605.JPG" /> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378929547909402674" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXL7M7-EDI/AAAAAAAAAlE/345w8rFWzhA/s400/CIMG1607.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378938869737110322" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXUZzc4uzI/AAAAAAAAAlM/socoSZ1qsaY/s400/CIMG1608.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378938880547247266" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXUabuOVKI/AAAAAAAAAlU/JlOr8wyx8pg/s400/CIMG1617.JPG" />Charlotte and Irena seemed to feel right at home too.</div><br /><div>The next morning the sun greeted us as we enjoyed breakfast watching the passenger Ferry's come in through the heads of the bay. </div></div><div><br /> </div><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378938889791166834" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXUa-KJWXI/AAAAAAAAAlc/ccl154tY3wA/s400/CIMG1609.JPG" /></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378938895668649170" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqXUbUDcnNI/AAAAAAAAAlk/J0kuXDges_c/s400/CIMG1611.JPG" /><br /><div>We took a little time to find out some history. At the time of European discovery of the area, it was inhabited by the Bengalat Bulag clan of the <a title="Wautharong" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wautharong">Wautharong</a> tribe, a member of the <a title="Kulin" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kulin">Kulin</a> nation. In her first term of class 5 this year E had learnt that William Buckley, convict escapee, was the first European settler in the area in 1803 (hopefully I can post some of her work on that at another time). Permanent settlement began in 1836. Because of it’s position at the head of Port Phillip Bay, Queenscliffe was originally a fishing village and soon became an important cargo port, hence it’s famous lighthouse. It became a popular tourist destination as early as the 1800’s, and now carries tourists across Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay to Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula.</div><br /><div>The main street of this historic town is delightful to wander around. I was very taken with this art deco shop front amongst the nineteenth century buildings.</div><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378982540789928866" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqX8HyzP06I/AAAAAAAAAl0/ykDcy7S1wUU/s400/CIMG1612.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378982551077219170" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqX8IZH7a2I/AAAAAAAAAl8/EcVnIknTqX4/s400/CIMG1633.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378982559329198706" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqX8I33WonI/AAAAAAAAAmE/Pap6q7gU8rU/s400/CIMG1615.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378982533399050178" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqX8HXRH98I/AAAAAAAAAls/51oS_jINXaI/s400/CIMG1616.JPG" /><br />There's some fun Op Shopping to be had here, and T bought herself this lovely necklace which we fancied was very 1960's. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378982567633732034" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqX8JWzTwcI/AAAAAAAAAmM/K9gWVLVjons/s400/CIMG1620.JPG" /></div><div>I found a pretty piece of lace, and an old fashioned lolly shop where we indulged in sherbert foutains (just like Papa used to by me when I was little!). </div></div><div><div><br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378987579961818450" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYAtHLcvVI/AAAAAAAAAmU/i_pfODPIOV0/s400/CIMG1618.JPG" /><br />In the pale afternoon sun, the girls paddled by the old jetty;</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378989305679871762" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYCRj-sfxI/AAAAAAAAAmc/ftAmqrUEsXk/s400/CIMG1623.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378989325840779874" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYCSvFbimI/AAAAAAAAAms/888gK-8LMy8/s400/CIMG1624.JPG" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378989316142818482" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYCSK9QZLI/AAAAAAAAAmk/aNO1LnCAk-g/s400/CIMG1622.JPG" /></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>Until paddling turned waist deep - in the middle of winter!!! The joy of being 9 and 11!!!</div><div> </div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378989332847972482" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYCTJME0II/AAAAAAAAAm0/gL0CZgnvKfQ/s400/CIMG1629.JPG" /></div><div><br /></div><div>We warmed up with hot fish and chips in the park overlooking the ocean - the end to a perfect day.<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378993267477502882" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYF4K0226I/AAAAAAAAAm8/wLrOD4VmYpM/s400/CIMG1632.JPG" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-68431621033102883382009-09-07T18:00:00.000-07:002009-09-08T00:37:03.578-07:00Our Winter...in retrospect...Part 2...life at a different paceEver since we read the series of <em>Little House on the Prairie</em> by Laura Ingles Wilder, our family has had a passion for the nineteenth century. The girls have been wanting to visit <a href="http://www.sovereignhill.com.au/?id=sovhill">Sovereign Hill </a>(recreating Victorian life during the 1850's Goldrush) all year, even Brendan was able to take a well-earned day off work - we had a great day!<br /><div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378898840712094018" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWv_ztnoUI/AAAAAAAAAjE/xeD3I1ttxzE/s400/DSCN0062.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378906145455213218" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW2pAAGCqI/AAAAAAAAAkU/EpZp60k7w5g/s400/DSCN0082.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378898866774659746" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWwBUza0qI/AAAAAAAAAjc/o8CYP61rd20/s400/DSCN0075.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378898849820638754" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWwAVpQ_iI/AAAAAAAAAjM/tbEH4x53oiU/s400/DSCN0074.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378898860476405362" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWwA9VzFnI/AAAAAAAAAjU/oOgjdpz7gQw/s400/DSCN0063.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378906156145278642" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW2pn0zfrI/AAAAAAAAAkc/DdVcfY7RIBg/s400/DSCN0090.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378904011181729234" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW0sxNpJdI/AAAAAAAAAkM/PQw1HwSt6cQ/s400/DSCN0091.jpg" /><br /><div><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378898881511038370" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWwCLs2HaI/AAAAAAAAAjk/tsUzfsSrKxM/s400/DSCN0079.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378903972797132802" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW0qiOCsAI/AAAAAAAAAjs/qhXF7GhrrBs/s400/DSCN0073.jpg" />This ice-sculptor was amazing to see in action...as was his work...<br /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378903999748725010" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW0sGnzWRI/AAAAAAAAAkE/5Rd2kIUs4Ds/s400/DSCN0068.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378903993175983074" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW0ruIvQ-I/AAAAAAAAAj8/oGXOG6U1zQo/s400/DSCN0066.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378903981704133506" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqW0rDZou4I/AAAAAAAAAj0/sp5Vk1c9Fys/s400/DSCN0069.jpg" /></div></div></div></div><br /><br />One of our favourite parts of Sovereign Hill is the Chinese village on the Goldfields, a part of our history we don't hear much about. I was touched when I turned around in the Chinese Temple to see E on her knees praying. I found out later that she was praying for the people who had died in the riots in China on 5 July, just a few days beforehand.<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378996654680022722" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqYI9VI3nsI/AAAAAAAAAnE/_GWEWv8t5Rw/s400/chinese+temple.jpg" />Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-24349200688823411392009-09-07T16:23:00.000-07:002009-09-08T00:47:50.555-07:00Our winter...in retrospect...Part 1...Midwinter BirthdayAs this little bear seemed to be hibernating over the last few weeks of Winter (ie. conserving energy for living and all that needed doing), I missed sharing how we enjoyed (for a few moments at least) the quiet hush of this season. Here's a glimpse of what we got up to... <div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div></div><div>T chose the theme for her 9th birthday "Christmas in July" - we really soaked up the Midwinter astmosphere.</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378880924968736306" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWfs-Xi1jI/AAAAAAAAAi8/x-I24WdrgwA/s400/DSCN0097.jpg" /><br /><br /><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378874682512927698" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWaBnaGa9I/AAAAAAAAAic/pJNTWtk3xqY/s400/DSCN0100.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378877642838679506" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWct7ewn9I/AAAAAAAAAi0/nEx9bzJOJf8/s400/DSCN0117.jpg" /></div><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378874660285981746" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWaAUmyJDI/AAAAAAAAAiM/XuE8FTAMNE4/s400/DSCN0104.jpg" /> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378874701172845458" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqWaCs6-K5I/AAAAAAAAAis/KJUyD0qd4-k/s400/DSCN0109.jpg" /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-38385149276269947862009-09-06T04:24:00.000-07:002009-09-07T15:58:12.637-07:00My Dad<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqOgpAiTDFI/AAAAAAAAAh8/s7bWwD4E17E/s1600-h/DSCN0152.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378319006389439570" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqOgpAiTDFI/AAAAAAAAAh8/s7bWwD4E17E/s400/DSCN0152.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Happy Father's Day to my Dad...the best Dad a girl could have; my Dad taught me:</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>to catch a fish and skin a rabbit</div><br /><div>build and fly a kite</div><br /><div>paint a fence</div><br /><div>not to take life too seriously</div><br /><div>stay young</div><br /><div>drive a car</div><br /><div>burn the toast</div><br /><div>build a campfire</div><br /><div>put up a tent</div><br /><div>swim</div><br /><div>play practical jokes</div><br /><div>plant vegetables</div><br /><div>build the world's biggest sandcastles</div><br /><div>boogy board</div><br /><div>sing "10 Green Bottles"</div><br /><div>be there for your children</div><br /><div>polish my shoes</div><br /><div>skin an apple</div><br /><div>tie my laces</div><br /><div>the art of storytelling</div><br /><div>generosity</div><br /><div>to rollerskate</div><br /><div>not to pull faces when the wind was changing</div><br /><div>to save money</div><br /><div>to lift my face to the sun</div><br /><div>to see the wide, wide world</div><br /><div>to waltz</div><br /><div>to prune a rose</div><br /><div>patience</div><br /><div>to work hard</div><br /><div>a sense of fun</div><br /><div>to enjoy life to the fullest</div><br /><div>and my Dad taught me, to love...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-61180089990026937282009-09-05T22:54:00.000-07:002009-09-07T15:58:57.288-07:00aha!!!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqNPruF6RWI/AAAAAAAAAh0/NqtwZvx6-NE/s1600-h/FSCN0119%5B1%5D"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378229992536294754" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SqNPruF6RWI/AAAAAAAAAh0/NqtwZvx6-NE/s400/FSCN0119%5B1%5D" /></a><br /><div>Finally found the time today to work out the new camera. I love this photo that my 11 y.o. took of her sister with her new camera on her 9th birthday. Beauty observing beauty.</div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-46516616636765965402009-09-03T05:05:00.000-07:002009-09-03T05:39:49.400-07:00Welcome Spring...Gosh, it's been something like 6 weeks since I've managed to blog. I've put it down to two reasons: firstly, all our photos since my daughter's birthday have been taken on her "new" camera, and I haven't had the time to work out how to download them yet; and secondly my physical body has been calling out to me to receive some tender loving care...and so I've been forced to listen...<br /><br />Just received these lovely photo's tonight. My daughter's Class 3 started on their "Building Project" today - what a lovely way to welcome in the Spring sunshine. I can't wait until it's my turn to have a day off from my shop work in a couple of weeks, and enjoy time building with the children.<br /><br />The Class 3's have chosen to build a Lizard seat near the Permaculture Garden...T came home exhausted but so happy today...<br /><br />Stage 1...stay tuned...<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377215394861215266" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-06XN27iI/AAAAAAAAAg8/rmqykjueRGU/s400/lizard+seat+a.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377215402134995602" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-06yUEApI/AAAAAAAAAhE/i6LmQlaYnk8/s400/lizard+seat+b.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377215413653850530" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-07dOXyaI/AAAAAAAAAhM/CmKU9RKLuh0/s400/lizard+seat+2.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377215423385493090" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-08Bek3mI/AAAAAAAAAhc/CXT0Xh-zWp0/s400/lizard+seat+4+tara.jpg" /> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377217901221379954" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-3MQIr_3I/AAAAAAAAAhk/3gciR6rYeTk/s400/lizard+seat+wtih+wire.jpg" /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377217908179203138" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sp-3MqDj9EI/AAAAAAAAAhs/8PoeD_OY7rc/s400/lizard+seat+concrete+with+ella.jpg" />Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-69823948519733025872009-07-19T19:43:00.000-07:002009-09-07T16:00:14.324-07:00Birthday prayerEach of my daughters has a candle that I lit as they made their way into this world. Each year, on the eve of their birthday, we light it again. Sitting beside them tucked up in bed, in the soft candlelight I tell these words:<br /><br /><div align="center"><em>When I have said my evening prayer,</em></div><div align="center"><em>And my clothes are folded in the chair,<br />And Mother switches off the light,</em></div><div align="center"><em>I'll still be nine years old tonight.<br />But, from the very break of day,</em></div><div align="center"><em>Before the children rise and play,</em></div><div align="center"><em>Before the greenness turns to gold,<br />Tomorrow, I'll be nine years old.<br />Nine kisses when I wake.</em></div><div align="center"><em>Nine candles on my cake!</em></div><div align="center"><em></em></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-32619700210887005952009-07-19T19:33:00.000-07:002009-09-07T16:01:05.257-07:00Busy little bee....Time is speeding up, we all feel it, and technology sucks away our time. Sit down at the computer and before you know it, hours can slip away. I have so much news to share, but no time to share it, and for now at least I need to be "present" with those around me and allow space for my inner work.<br /><br />Consequently, my blog is being very boring. I have so much to share - all our school holiday adventures for one thing, my youngests birthday, many things which will have to wait while I go on "living".<br /><br />I was commenting to a fellow blogger last week, that there have been a few moments in the last few weeks where I have wondered if the blog is reflecting life, or driving life? As much as I love writiing I have to be careful, I want this blog to remain authentic but not take over my life.<br /><br />Hopefully, I'll be back soon, but I've decided very clearly this must be a "guilt free" blog, so I'll write as I can.Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-76386806919990330792009-07-03T04:47:00.001-07:002009-07-03T06:09:52.403-07:00The healing power of stories<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sk3v_nqfU3I/AAAAAAAAAfU/FXgiBP-5EiM/s1600-h/CIMG1536_edited.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5354199408271381362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Sk3v_nqfU3I/AAAAAAAAAfU/FXgiBP-5EiM/s400/CIMG1536_edited.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="left">A few nights ago we enjoyed one of those "spontaneous" moments. Our Papa was visiting, and another young friend, and we decided to light our open fire and roast marshmallows and chestnuts. Everyone got into the spirit of the night - collecting kindling and lighting candles. Then we sat back and relished the warm gooiness of the toasted marshmallows to the joyful popping sound of the roasting chestnuts (which by the way were buttery and good!) and the haunting tones of <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x3akre_loreena-mckennitt-all-souls-night-l">Loreena McKennitt</a>. On our stove top, bubbling away all this time, was a big pot of split pea and frankfurt soup (from Nigella Lawson's <a href="http://www.nigella.com/product/default.aspx"><em>Feast - food to celebrate life</em> </a>cookbook I was given for my birthday last year).<br /></div><div align="left"><br />Afterwards we made a circle in front of the fire and had storytime....I started the story, then each person had a turn in adding to the story....this is when the magic really started....I was so moved my what came forward in the story from each person....how animated and serious each of them was; and in a way each turn revealed to me something of what is happening deep down inside of each of them right now. Our storytellers ranged in age: 6, nearly 9, just turned 11, 41 (that's me) and 85!!<br /><br /><br />It was a glorious story that involved a princess (of course) on a quest to find a mysterious light in the forest. It involved falling through a trap door, into a deep dark cave, meeting a giant bear (who was really a prince bewitched), building several shelters on the journey and gathering 12 magic crystals (from behind 12 magic doors) to release the prince from his bear-body prison. The princess in the end solved the great mystery of the mysterious light: it was really made up from the love of all human beings, and that the love gathered together would light up their way through all the darkest nights of winter (this from the nearly 9 year old).<br /><br /><br />To be honest, I totally lost track of the time, we were all of us transported into a hushed and imaginative place...like troubabours of old....I've been struggling a bit with certain things this winter, but this was just the healing balm I needed!<br /><br /><br />And the pea soup was good too!!!</div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-56821946382023929082009-06-28T17:40:00.001-07:002009-06-28T17:52:43.573-07:00High Tea<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkgOAV660DI/AAAAAAAAAe0/qkiJjMnDcCo/s1600-h/high+tea.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352543556176891954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkgOAV660DI/AAAAAAAAAe0/qkiJjMnDcCo/s400/high+tea.JPG" border="0" /></a> Rose Tea anyone? Butterfly cake with that? Feeling very ladylike in Ama's gold gloves and pretty dress from Grandmama, off to celebrate a special friend's 9th birthday. It was like stepping back in time - the kitchen smelt glorious - of homely baking, the lace-covered table was piled high with old-fashioned goodies: matchsticks, peppermint and rose creams, sponge cakes; the pretty girls all dressed in their finest; and the cook resplendent in an authentic 1950's housecoat and apron! (Pity I don't have a photo).<br /><div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-24868699244461148612009-06-26T17:29:00.000-07:002009-07-03T05:36:28.270-07:00Winter Solstice<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkV-UTr1ryI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JOlboFnfSes/s1600-h/lantern+walk+postcard.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351822619546332962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 350px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkV-UTr1ryI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JOlboFnfSes/s400/lantern+walk+postcard.bmp" border="0" /></a>Last week our family enjoyed one of our favourite nights of the year - Winter Solstice. For seven years now we have rugged up in our warm coats and hats and ventured out into the darkness of the starry Southern skies. We have gathered with our school and kinder communities - many who have now become close friends - and celebrated the darkness and the light. Every year as I witness the children holding aloft their lanterns as they walk and sing I am reminded of that every human being on this Earth has a light inside of them and that when we hold onto this light within, we shed light on our world and all those around us. It is truly moving, hushed and beautiful night as we make a string of stars through the inky dark.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351822627487608418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 315px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 398px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkV-UxRL7mI/AAAAAAAAAds/n-gvP0FN10k/s400/tara+lantern+walk+cropped.jpg" border="0" /><br />At my youngest daughter's school, the Grade 6 children bring the light to the school with a procession of fire torches, with reverance, they slowly make their way into the middle of our gathering and finish in a spiral...then we all sing and hand in hand step forward on our lantern walk.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351822622990995426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SkV-UghHD-I/AAAAAAAAAdk/9FGS-mQgAP0/s400/lantern+walk+grade+6s.jpg" border="0" /><br /><em>I walk with my lantern, </em><br /><em>My lantern walks with me. </em><br /><em>The starts up in heaven, </em><br /><em>They shine on me. </em><br /><em>My light goes out, </em><br /><em>we all go home, </em><br /><em>Labimmel, labahmmel, laboom!</em><br /><br /><em>Under the full moon light we dance;</em><br /><em>spirits dance, we dance;</em><br /><em>join in hands we dance; </em><br /><em>join in souls rejoice.</em><br /><br />And my favourite<br /><br /><em>The gift of the light, we thankfully take</em><br /><em>For it shall not be, alone for our sake</em><br /><em>The gift of the light, we thankfully bring</em><br /><em>To shine on our way, this midwinter's day</em><br /><em>This soft candle light, we'll keep in our heart</em><br /><em>To warm us each one, when we are apart<br /></em><br />This year, we had the great pleasure of experiencing two winter festivals. At my oldest daughter's school we gathered in the hall in complete darkness - it was a truly reverant and holy atmosphere to be in. It is my daughter's turn to be part of this next year, so I am saving up to talk about it until then....<br /><br />Each year my girls have made a new lantern in their class - we have quite a lovely collection now: glass jars decorated with tissue paper, tin cans with nail hole patterns for the light to shine through, ballon shaped paper-mache lantern, and watercolour painted paper lanterns.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352244687826917346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Skb-L6jlF-I/AAAAAAAAAd8/c4CPB9cm1w0/s400/winter+lanterns.JPG" border="0" /><br /><span style="color:#000000;">This is how T made her paper lantern:</span><br /><ul><li><span style="color:#000099;">Take a piece of quality water colour paper</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Cut it to size, and fold over the top by 3 cm for a smooth edge</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Fold the paper into a cylinder shape and measure the diameter of the bottom</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Cut a circular piece of cardboard to the size of your diameter</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Make cuts half the diameter of the cardboard circle in length along the bottom of your paper</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Unfold your paper and decorate using watercolour paints</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Fold and glue to the top edge and then fold into the cylinder shape and secure with glue (use a peg to keep it together while the glue dries).</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Place the cardboard circle into the base of your cylinder then secure in place by pasting the cut pieces of the bottom of your lantern over the top</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Make two holes in the top of your lantern and use plaited wool to make a handle</li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Glue a tealight candle in the base</span></li><li><span style="color:#000099;">Light your candle and enjoy the beautiful glow....</span></li></ul></span><p><span style="color:#000099;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352244681362562274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/Skb-LieW3OI/AAAAAAAAAd0/8Au6OsKXyGo/s400/lantern+base.JPG" border="0" /></span></p>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-13402792955589738692009-06-16T02:44:00.000-07:002009-07-01T17:40:37.951-07:00The Art of Being and Bonding...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjduzFWv0QI/AAAAAAAAAc8/eebKMMrwHMc/s1600-h/Liliana+and+Dans+Osteimer+at+Home.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347864906415722754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 188px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjduzFWv0QI/AAAAAAAAAc8/eebKMMrwHMc/s400/Liliana+and+Dans+Osteimer+at+Home.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>There's something very special about the bond between a father and his daughter don't you think? For the last couple of years my girls have been spending time at Aussie Rules footy with their Dad. It's not that they are avid footy fans, in fact alot of the time they don't seem to know what's going on at all. But they do really enjoy this time for no other reason that it is special time just spent with their Dad, sharing his passion, sharing a whole day together, cheering together, talking together, walking to the game together, bonding...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Dan (who is a very special friend, and now works with us in our Honeybee stores, and helping out - and he is a HUGE help - in our warehouse), just sent me this lovely photo which captured something of his weekend - setting up this imaginative play scene with his 7 year-old daughter. There's no better way to spend a weekend as far as I'm concerned, than just "being" and "playing" with your children. The precious years of childhood pass so quickly. When I look at this photo I imagine the small nuances, the subtle moments, the real "creating" that may have unfolded - the creating of a relationship, of communication, of intimacy, of love, of discussion, of joy, of negotiation, of patience, of bonding, of being...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Today, I spent five and a half hours in the car with my youngest daughter, driving her to a specialist optometrist. We had to drive down one of the most BORING stretches of roads in Victoria, but I have to say it was a lovely trip. We didn't put the radio on, we didn't play any games (not consciously), we were just enjoying spending time together, we didn't do much at all except BE - basking in each other's company!!! </div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-76458207537181715012009-06-13T20:06:00.001-07:002009-06-13T20:26:11.608-07:00Favourite Rainy Saturday Fun<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzsL3oPI/AAAAAAAAAc0/ZRtyXi6CPn0/s1600-h/CIMG1451.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347014994350809330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzsL3oPI/AAAAAAAAAc0/ZRtyXi6CPn0/s400/CIMG1451.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzV2Qx7I/AAAAAAAAAcs/OH4GfUMuS0g/s1600-h/CIMG1450.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347014988354602930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzV2Qx7I/AAAAAAAAAcs/OH4GfUMuS0g/s400/CIMG1450.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzF-7K6I/AAAAAAAAAck/TFMudaZ4bZ8/s1600-h/CIMG1444.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347014984095968162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjRpzF-7K6I/AAAAAAAAAck/TFMudaZ4bZ8/s400/CIMG1444.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#cc0000;">Rollerskating spells:</span> </div><div>Rolling, Rolling, Rolling (on two skinny blades)</div><div>Outstanding skill (after weeks of practise and falling over)</div><div>Linking hands</div><div>Legs moving, sprawling, wobbling, racing...</div><div>Endless giggles</div><div>Really good friends</div><div>Speed skating (which means Mummy turns white!)</div><div>Amazing balance</div><div>Top ten tunes and crazy dances</div><div>Impressing Mummy with boundless energy and daring skill :-)</div><div>Never wanting to leave</div><div>Great fun for all the family!!!!!!! </div><div> </div><div>If you're in Melbourne check out <a href="http://www.skaterz.com.au/">Skaterz</a> where we spend many a rainy Saturday.<br /></div></div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31632958.post-74350754946381580382009-06-11T18:34:00.000-07:002009-06-11T19:31:44.914-07:00The joy of turning 11<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346250862525627506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjGy1XT3PHI/AAAAAAAAAbU/a-RccQXaiOs/s400/CIMG1411.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>My eldest daughter turned 11 a couple of weeks ago. I really don't know how the years fly by so quickly, but they do...always a reminder to me to enjoy every day, every moment.</div><br /><div></div><div>Regular readers will know that this year my daughter moved to a new school, and being quite shy, it takes her some time to make friends - she's very thoughtful and considered they way she goes about it, and that takes time. I thought it might help if her classmates could come to her home, to get more of a picture of who she is, and to get to know her a little better. Besides, we love parties at home - I think out of "19" combined birthdays, we have so far only had one away from home, and that was for my youngest last year who celebrated at her 8th at one of her favourite past-times "rollerskating".</div><br /><div></div><div>The birthday girl came up with her own "theme" for her party, browsing through her <em><a href="http://www.honeybeetoys.com.au/catalogue/beautiful_books_music/the_great_big_glorious_book_for_girls">Great Big Glorious Book for Girls</a> </em>she came across the idea for an "<span style="color:#ff6600;">Orange</span>" party. </div><br /><div><em>Orange Birthday Party (from The Great Big Glorious Book for Girls)</em></div><div><em>*Invitations: orange, of course, and orange shaped</em><br /><em>*Dress code: anything, as long as it's orange</em><br /><em>*Food and drink: oragnes, orange cheese, orange peppers and carrots; orange juice, orange jelly and anything else you can think of that's orange.</em></div><div><em>*Birthday cake: orange-shaped and flavoured, with orange icing!</em></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346260252386087042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjG7X7RDUII/AAAAAAAAAcc/Ji916TR4ecY/s400/CIMG1420.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>We added pumpkin soup, melon and marshmallow skewers, and capsicum dip with carrot sticks.<br /></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346250855746940514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjGy0-DsrmI/AAAAAAAAAbM/pCr-67Nx8jE/s400/CIMG1418.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>And of course the orange birthday cake.<br /></div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346257825627900178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjG5Kq40CRI/AAAAAAAAAcM/xgNLtweKed4/s400/CIMG1432.JPG" border="0" />Party games included "Find the Orange" a variation on a treasure hunt; each orange had a number painted on it, and at the end the numbers each person had found were added up - the closest to the birthday girls age was the winner!!! There was also "Pass the Orange" which got lots of giggles from the girls as they had to pass the orange from foot to foot without dropping it.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346257814905921330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjG5KC8fnzI/AAAAAAAAAb8/jxzac2DW0m8/s400/CIMG1427.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>It was a really beautiful day, all of the girls really enjoyed themselves, played beautifully together, and were very caring towards the birthday girl. A few were even heard to say "this is the coolest party ever". It makes my heart sing to know that a group of 11 year old girls can still have a really good time together in such a simple way.</div><div></div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346257812873553842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_qBewsJQHGmU/SjG5J7X8J7I/AAAAAAAAAb0/C_1K2w3JDqI/s400/CIMG1424.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>And the wonderful thing is that my daughter gained her confidence that day, and her friendships have continued to blossom beautifully.... </div>Melissa Ellen, Honeybee Toyshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14850078205543080302noreply@blogger.com1