Sit a Minute

3rd School Report - September 2011

2011-11-07T03:54:00.000-08:00

SCORES - 1 = Not Achieved. 2 = Partially Achieved. 3 = Achieved. 4 = Outstanding.

LITERACY - Milestones covered in Term 3 - Dylan's Mark: 3

Reads 100 basic sight words
Understanding punctuation when reading
Build own word bank and dictionary using of initial letter of word
Write sentences using Capital and full stops
Consolidation test

COMMENT - Dylan is a busy little boy who enjoys relating his news. He writes creative sentences and reads a variety of material. Well done to him.

NUMERACY - Dylan's Mark:4

Counting: 1 to 100, 40 to 0, 2's to 50, 5's to 100, 10's to 100 and back.
Add and subtract numbers up to 20
Reads and writes number names 1 tot 20
Orders numbers 1st to 10th
Recognises 2D and 3D objects
Measures time, mass and capacity
Consolidation test

COMMENT - He enjoys a challenge and takes great pleasure in finding solutions.

LIFE ORIENTATION - Dylan's Mark: 3

Explains steps to ensure personal hygiene
Understands why school rules need to be followed

Identifies emotions including respect for living things

Consolidation test.

KDA - FITNESS

Ball control - gaining confidence
Skipping rope (using alternate feet) - gaining confidence
Midline crossing - competent

GENERAL COMMENT - Dylan strives to please. He tends to rush through his work and makes careless mistakes. He must also try to keep his workspace free of clutter. He participates positively and enthusiastically in lessons and is a little star. He must keep up the good work.

Well done Our Dude - you rock!!!

End of Grade 1 (2011) and Our Dude Gets his certificates!

2011-11-07T03:34:00.000-08:00

Le Dude looking very chuffed with himself. We are all very proud of you!

Conquesta certificate for numeracy. This is a countrywide competition, the school enrolled him. He got a platinum certificate - 100% score!!!! Well done!

Good Potential certificate for self assured character and negotiating skills. Mrs Reyneke, his teacher, told the assembly that THIS little boy CAN negotiate. Everybody who knows and loves him are in total agreement.

Looking very self assured in front of the whole packed hall he does.

Thank you very much older dude with smart jacket.

Now gimme that thingy so I can go sit down and think of stuff to draw.

Just checking his certificate for spelling mistakes - you never know with these grown-ups...

The Thinker. What does the future hold for me? Well dude, we hope and trust and believe it holds lots and lots and lots of wonderful things. Coz we love you.

Fishing with Spikey

2011-11-07T03:08:00.000-08:00

Hartebeespoortdam wall as seen from the bottom.

Spikey showed us the ropes - and just look at Mister doing his thing like a pro!

See Boetie, this is how you do it.

Second ever big school report fo our dude - June 2011

2011-06-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

SCORES - 1 = Not Achieved. 2 = Partially Achieved. 3 = Achieved. 4 = Outstanding.

LITERACY - Milestones covered in Term 2 - Dylan's Mark: 3

Talks about personal experiences using correct sequence.
Builds up words using sounds learnt.
Recognises at least 50 sight words.
Begins to build own word bank to build basic sentences.
Consolidation test.

COMMENT - Dylan likes to share his news (Oh we know!). He makes good use of phonetical kills in reading and writing. He must keep up the good work.

NUMERACY - Dylan's Mark: 3

Counting: 0 to 50, 2's to 30, 5's to 100, 10's to 100 and back.
Is able to add and subtract single digit numbers on a number line.
Doubles and halves numbers 1 to 10.
Records information on a graph.
Identifies odd and even numbers 1 tot 10.
Identifies concept before and after.
Consolidation test.

COMMENT - He has mastered the basic concepts well.

LIFE ORIENTATION - Dylan's Mark: 3

Identifies safe and unsafe situations.
Understands why school rules need to be followed.
Shows respect for living things.
Consolidation test.

KDA - FITNESS

Push ups (best of 10) - Gaining confidence
Sit ups (best of 10) - Competent
Shuttle runs (1 minute) - Competent
Star jumps (best of 10) - Competent

GENERAL COMMENT - Dylan is somewhat reluctant to accept classroom rules and discipline. He is a good messenger and conveys messages correctly. He must try to keep his work space tidy. His work is neat and it is a pleasure to have him in the class.

There we go, his second ever school report.

Well, happiness abound with his school marks, of course. After a difficult beginning we reckon Our Dude has settled in nicely. He did get a good talking to from The Parents about that reluctance to accept rules and discipline in the class I can tell you! But we know he will get that sorted too. All in all, well done dude - we love you. Yes yes, even Spikes loves you you schmuck!

Birthday number 7 - 29 May 2011

2011-06-06T05:05:00.000-07:00

Aaaaaaaall the friends, and the dude on the far left has decided the waiting sucks, he will eat so long!

Miss Bonolo looking chuffed with herself.

Sooooo many candles....

See, THIS is how it reads. Coz I'm big now you know, reading is my thing.

Friends and family linking up for the big sing-a-long.

Spikey baaaaaaadly wants to blow out them candles! Dude, stop it!


The birthday dude must do the honors. And he did!

Assembly - Friday 3 June 2001. Dylan's class do the prayer for the school.

2011-06-06T04:40:00.000-07:00

He does look seriously focused doesn't he!

Our big dude - speaking in front of all those people!


Well rehearsed - well done Teacher Reynecke!

Wearing my first tie!

2011-05-10T05:10:00.000-07:00

Milan, Dylan and Liam at Pretoria Zoo, April 2011

Winter school dress - and our very first tie, ever! Was he chuffed or what!

There we go - belly laughs all around!

Various shots of our Hero in action

2011-05-10T01:56:00.000-07:00

Milkshake - breakfast with Granny and Grandpa - got that action down to a fine art. The straw at just the right angle. The ears on both sides of the head and focused on the glass. Eyes somewhat glassy and faraway looking. The fingers gripping but not too hard. The milkshake level going down at a steady rate of knots. People looking on expectantly. And then... YES! The SLURP! Followed soon after by the SLAP (if mommy is close by!)

Spider Man. No man, the front guys is Pwince William - check me out with the red and blue suit, scaling a 700 meter tall coffee table. Cool huh?

Bike riding. Notice the two lighter lines behind me? Wheelspinning. Don't tell Gwampa!!! What? Well the wheels are BLUE dude - course they don't make black spin marks!

1st ever Soccer Tournament - Saturday 7 May 2011, at Irene Primary School.

2011-05-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

Behold - the Master has stepped on the field!

It was all such short notice, so Dylan never had time to get soccer kit before the day of the tournament. Still, he did great! As goalie he let one slip by, but also made a couple of good saves. And of course, then he also scored his first ever soccer goal.

I think everybody will agree that the look of sheer joy on that little face in the "goal" sequence says it all. No words required.

Glenstantia won 5 out of 7 games for the day, had one draw (1 - 1) and one loss (1 - 0). A great way to start a new sport!

Warm-up - the pro's do it, so we start from a young age!

Playing goalie - but you can't stop them all. This one got past.

In midfield, on the way to that first goal.


Scrambling for posession

Now look guys, here is how you do it.


There we go!


Just like that yes!

LADUUUUUUUUUUMAAAAA! That first ever goal.


Notice that face!

Here is a guy beside himself with joy.

Celebration, Dylan style.

Even the opponents have to take note.


Handshakes after the game. Coach teaches good sportsmanship!

More warm-up.

Notice the pro stance there dudes.

The Team

The team getting some team spirit going....


YAYYYY!! We are the best!

Dylan's First Ever Primary School Report - March 2011

2011-03-26T05:43:00.000-07:00

Glenstantia primary School - Grade 1 R- Dylan Marais - Foundation Phase
School Report end of first term, March 2011

Performance Key

1 - Not Achieved
2 - Partially Achieved
3 - Achieved - this indicates that the learner is fullfilling the expectations of his grade level and has acquired the necessary skills.
4 - Outstanding

LITERACY - Milestones covered in Term 1

Listens and always follows instructions
Expresses self fluently
Blending and copying of basic two- and three-letter words
Recognises sight words taught

Performance - 3

Comment - Dylan enjoys sharing his news. He does not however always follow instructions. He copes well with reading and phonic skills. Reversals occur.

NUMERACY - Milestones covered in Term 1

Concepts and vocabulary (more, less, before, after)
Counting 0 - 30, 20 - 0, 2's - 20, 5's - 50, 10's - 50
Knows and reads number symbols 1 - 10
Can perform calculations using more or less
Recognition of shapes (circle, square, triangle, oval, rectamgle, diamond)

Performance - 3

Comment - Dylan has mastered the concepts well. He needs to focus on the direction of numbers. Daily counting is recommended.

LIFE ORIENTATION

Recognises and names body parts
Attitude towards school rules
Presentation and organisation of tasks

Performance - 3

KDA - MOTOR DEVELOPMENT

Muscle tone (core muscles' ability to work efficiently against gravity) - Gaining Confidence

Eye muscle control (smooth eye movements) - Competent

Swimming - Gaining Confidence

General Comment - Dylan is a friendly little boy and his work shows good progress. He must keep up the hard work. It is a pleasure to have him in the class.

Wow. Dude, we are SO proud of you! We know that this first term was not an easy period for you in your young life. So to see that you really tried so hard notwithstanding, fills us with joy and pride. You are a little fighter, and we love and support you all the way.

Bibi showng some gums!

2011-02-25T02:29:00.000-08:00

Mister Clever Grade 1 Dude

2011-02-04T05:26:00.000-08:00

So Mister Dylan only listens to half of what his teacher instructs them to do, with the result that he - obviously - gets the assignment ever so slightly wrong.

When she points this out to him, our Dude replies "But Teacher, grade 1's are supposed to make mistakes!".

Very true dude - but it does help if you listen as well. We love you Clever Man.

Start of Primary School - 12 January 2011

2011-01-12T05:06:00.000-08:00

Master Dylan at the entrance gate to Glenstantia Primary - where he will be getting even more clever from now on!

The new classroom

The new classro... oh right, said that already!

Posing with the new teacher, Mrs Reyneke.

Mrs Reyneke - our hero's grade 1 teacher. We like her already!

Yaaaaay! We found Bonolo!

Double Yaaaaaay! We found Casandra too!

Gooi those smiles!

Bonolo acting all cool on her first day

Check out my new big blue school case - COOL!

Mommy holding on tight to the School Dude.

Now listen mommy, not TOO tight, people are watching!

The Tuck Shop. Where you get to tuck in at break. It sells all kinds of tuck-in-able stuff!

Playground

Just testing to see if the gate has been fitted properly.

First day of Big School - 12 January 2011

2011-01-12T00:27:00.000-08:00

Our Dude - we all wish you well on the start of this new chapter of your life. You look so proud in this photo, like someone who cannot wait to get to grips with life, and the adventure called - The Big School! Keep that hunger and zest for life. Always strive to give your best, but ensure you enjoy it still. A lot of people are very emotional and very proud of you today. We are all shouting in your corner!

And this was sms'd to you from Demetre:

"Hello Dylan. Today is the start of a new adventure. I pray that you are Blessed to enjoy, have fun and that your new school career will prepare you to be a fine and respectable young man! Have a fabulous 1st day at school. Love, Miti."

Angela visi.... this is getting boring! HELLO ANGELA!!!

2011-01-11T06:58:00.000-08:00

SCOOOOOORE!

C'mon already Angela, it's my turn again!

We found my brother see!

Typical family portraits are boring!

Mommy's cousin Angela visits from Greece - of course I know where it is don't tell me!

2011-01-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Ha ha ha ha! Oh my goodness that's funny!

Looking good parents!

Ag this is just our sweet Bibi! Ons vreet hom sommer op!

Find my brother and win a trip for two to Greece. Which is a country. In the world. And I know where it is!

She hugs nice!

Dylan orders a baby sister for Christmas 2010!

2011-01-04T00:51:00.000-08:00

Dylan wants a sister for Christmas. So he puts it in writing on a Christmas Wish List to Santa, as these things are supposed to be done!

Santa leaves gifts for Colin and Jackie under our tree and when they arrive he dashes out the door to let them know about it.

They too inform him that Santa did the same at their house and left gifts there for him and Mouse.

So Dylan grabs the gift and runs inside only to say “I hope that this is my baby sister that I asked for!” as he was ripping the paper off the gift.

How disappointed he was when he realised it wasn’t.

So now you now - baby sisters come in gift wrapping and are supposed to be left under your christmas tree! Surely you knew that?

Our Bibi's first graduation - Millennium Kids Montessori (Saturday 13 November 2010)

2010-11-15T02:36:00.000-08:00

The graduates getting ready for their Big Moment! Dylan and Bonolo "checking out" the guests!

All lined up and ready to start! Friendship rings hanging behind them.

Probably thinking - oh what did I get myself into...!

Just look at those cool looking graduates! You look so smart Bibi!

One small step for our Dylan, one big step for his future.

Looking very determined indeed!

Our Bibi's first graduation - Millennium Kids Montessori (Saturday 13 November 2010)

2010-11-15T02:27:00.000-08:00

Spikey and Master Li-man - these graduation thingy's are hard work!

We know THAT dude!

Dylan's picture on the wall - note the only one walking on this toes!

Now listen - stop faffing about certificates and stuff and get me some juice!

Mommy taking a picture of our main man receiving his certificate from Teacher's Leslie and Jeanette. He was the most "world wise" dude in the class.

Enough already, us 2 years old dudes DEMAND a lap to sit on! ANY lap will do, even somebody we don't really know!

The Coloring Inner Assistant Dude

2010-09-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have an idea! Oops that's my eye!

Oh man it's a good idea, I am so chuffed. This assistant thingy is waaaaaay cool!

Allow me to show you - see the blue dysonaur? Well, that's not it.

Showing Granny how good I can colour in!

2010-09-27T23:58:00.000-07:00

Dylan was showing me how well he is colouring in, so the pictures were taken
to put on the blog.

I gave him 2 tenors (R20) because he made me laugh so, like I said to Glenda
this could be the start of something, and he could be telling everyone on
stage that this all began when his grand-ma gave him R20 for making her
laugh.

Granny

Look Gwanny, this is how us pro's do it.

Every good Coloring Inner Dude must of course have a Coloring Inner Assistant Dude.

Assistant - pass me the green please! What? No it's not blue man! Everything is blue with you.


There we go - proof! Picasso Dude is once again amongst us. Yeah yeah yeah, and Picasso Junior!

Bibi shooting some SERIOUS gas guns!

2010-09-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

Eating Granny's Food

2010-09-13T04:39:00.000-07:00

Messing? Who?!

Nah - no messing around here! Ask Karate Kid in the camo shirt!

Ha ha ha, he is so funny, my big brother - now he wants me to share!

Karate Kid????

2010-09-13T04:34:00.000-07:00

Karate Kid was recently seen in a quiet residential neighborhood in Pretoria! Birds fled in terror when he crossed his arms in the style made famous by that impostor who played in the original movie - Bird Style - and gave them "The Look". Feeling a bit shaky myself to be honest.

And then onlookers realized - the Karate Kid now has a sidekick! (Out of respect NO pun was intended by this remark) Much like that other Batty Dude who hung out with Robin, Karate Kid now applies the force in double doses!! Let the world take notice - Karate Kiddy is here!

Of course, all that fast action makes you hungry! So KK demanded to be fed. Note how he just drinks out of the watering can. KK doesn't waste time with glasses!

Here KKy shows off his stuff. He can break ribs with that tongue! It takes a long, long time. But he ain't scared.

TWO TENORS

2010-09-13T01:41:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, 11 September 2010, on the way back from a morning shooting gas guns, Daddy and Spikey were taking Dylan to go drop him off at Grannies house.

But Mister wanted Macdonalds, so we stopped at the MacD in Zambezi Drive in Montana.

We walk in, and as we get to the counter, he spreads his arms, points to the 2 big guys, and says to the guy waiting to take the order: "My two tenors!".

Needless to say, the whole place had a good giggle! Funny dude!

Women's Day 9th August 2010

2010-08-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

Bibi's favourite sign nowadays - in a couple of years this will be for taxi's, but the other way around...

Hey Ouboet - what do we have here then hmmm!

He wears his heart on his slee.. I mean in his fingers!

Yeah, we cute! You right!

Yayyyyy!! Spikey's here!!!!

Pre-School Progress Report: Dragonfly Class Grade 0

2010-08-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

Assessment Indicators:

NA - Not yet achieved, functioning below desired level
A - achieved, attained desired level
PA - partially achieved, monitor carefully / Still developing
OA - outstanding achievement, exceeded desired level

LITERACY

Listening:
I enjoy listening to stories and am able to note details and to sequence events - A
I am able to listen to simple instructions and to respond appropriately - A
I am able to recognise differences between environmental sounds - A

Speaking:
I am able to ask and answer questions, using full sentences - A
I am able to participate confidently in group discussions - OA

Reading & Viewing:
I am able to recognise a picture or figure from the back ground - A
I am learning good reading behaviour and to use pictures to understand stories - A
I am able to identify some sounds in words - A

Writing:
I am able to use various ways to practise correct letter formation, with increasing control - A
I am able to draw a picture to convey a message - A

Thinking & Reasoning:
I am able to search for explanations when investigating and exploring new concepts - PA

Comments - Dylan still displays appropriate listening behaviour. He becomes very exited when answering questions. He is able to answer in full sentences. He loves helping other children when they don't know the answer, with hand up and waiting his turn. He enjoys reading books and is able to name some initial sounds in words. He understands and can identify many of the alphabet letters which we have learnt so far. Dylan has improved with writing his name but is still not using the correct letter formation. He needs to practise his name using correct formation. He holds his pencil confidently using the correct grip.

MATHEMATICS

Numbers, Operations Relationships:
I am able to recognise, name and write numerals 1-6 - A
I'm able to solve practical addition problems with single digit numbers using concrete objects - A

Pattern:
I am able to create my own patterns using concrete objects or drawings - A

Shape and Space:
I am able to identify 3D objects in my environment - PA
I am able to recognise symmetry in myself and my environment - A

Measurement:
I am able to understand sequencing of events - A
I am able to use appropriate measuring units in a variety of contexts - PA

Data handling:
I am able to collect, sort and represent data in order to draw conclusions - PA

Comments - Dylan enjoys the mathematical concepts. He has a good understanding of numbers 1-6 and their relations. Dylan works well at creating his own patterns using numbers, objects and symbols. He is starting to identify 3D objects in the environment. He is able to recognise symmetry in himself and in the environment.

LIFE ORIENTATION

Social development:
I am able to build friendships – A
I am able to share and take turns, showing respect for others and their property – A

Personal development:
I am able to be independent – A
I am starting to verbalise my feelings – A

Physical development:
I am able to use available space safely to execute movements – A
I explore different ways to become locomotive, involving direction, space and pattern – A
I explore different ways to balance and elevate on combined apparatus – A
I am able to manipulate scissors, toys and various media successfully – A

Knowledge & understanding of the World:
I am able to ask and answer questions about objects to compare and discuss changes that have occurred – A
I am able to construct items using different techniques and materials – A
I am able to observe and comment on the local environment, considering the impact that I have on it – A

Arts and Culture:
I am able to use a wide variety of art materials, techniques and colour to create images of my own world – A
I am able to tell stories about my art work – A
I am able to express moods and feelings through movement – A
I am able to respond appropriately to music concepts through body and instrument percussion - A

Comments - Dylan has made some good friends. He knows how to share and take turns but he can be nasty towards them at times. He does later make it up to them. Dylan enjoys an active and busy day at school. Dylan has improved tremendously with his work. He now takes pride in his tasks and takes his time in completing them. His work is of a very pleasing standard. Well done Dylan with your achievement.
Dylan thrives on class discussions, and he always has something good to add.

TEACHER'S COMMENTS

Dylan is a very polite young man. Hê knows and is determined to achieve anything hê puts his mind to. What an improvement. Hê knows and understands the class rules and conforms to them very well.
Well done Dylan my boy. I am very proud of you. Please keep up the good work!
L. Botha – Principal
J.W. Engelbrecht

Well done once again Knight Dylan - you continue to make us all proud!

Dylan on his baby brother - 23 July 2010

2010-07-27T08:36:00.000-07:00

Sibling rivalry can sometimes cause tears, but there are times when the only tears caused are those of laughter. This was one such time!

Liam was walking around the house with a "lila". To those who don't know, that is a vuvuzela. It is just about as tall as Liam, and he loves blowing on it! In his own way of course.

So he spots big brother, and promptly raps him on the knuckles with the lila.

So Dylan says to his Dad and says: "I don't really want a baby brother but he is so damn cute we must keep him!"

So, Liam - seems you're safe, the Bibi has spoken!

18 July 2010 - Mandela Day

2010-07-21T01:12:00.000-07:00

The Parents took The Kids to visit Ouma Cheryl's sister in Mothwa Haven. She is bed ridden, and the boys really helped to make her day! They were at first a bit reluctant to have fun, as all the old people were a bit intimidating. Imagine being 2 and 6 and being surrounded by hordes of very old people! But once they relaxed they really had fun, running up and down the passages to see what all the Golden Oldies were up to. Of course, the old folks loved having them around and you could clearly see how much they enjoyed the interaction.

Glenda and Auntie Lynn

The Dudes helping The Parents to do their 67 minutes of good on Madiba's Birthday.

Bibi's Fish Story - coz everbody must have a fish story!

2010-07-08T05:08:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 3 July 2010, Spikey took the 2 Little Dudes to The Rietvlei Nature Reserve for the afternoon so that The Parents could catch up on some much needed sleep.

Small Dudes and new teeth equals little sleep!

Dylan loved it because Spikey let him drive his car, and Liam enjoyed the game drive because we met several animals on the road so he could see them up close. By the way - The Bibi is a good dwiver, in case you ever wondered! Just ask him, he will tell you.

So when we approached the Rietvlei Dam, he saw the caravans and tents of weekend fishermen along the shore and asked about it. Spikey then explained what they were doing, and got this explanation in return:

"You know Spikey, let me tell you something about fish. Me and my bwother, we love fish. It's our favouwite vegetable."

So there you have it. Questions anybody?

Dylan's 6th Birthday 29 May 2010 - Prince Charming was at the party too!

2010-05-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

Pssst! Older girls like me. Ho ho ho

Just sitting on mommy's lap to check that everybody is behaving at this party.

OI! That goes for you too!

Yo! I don't trust this - don't look at me like that! I may be short but I'm dangerous!

Mffff mfffff oh yeah - nice cake dude!

Dylan's Birthday 29 May 2010

2010-05-31T06:58:00.001-07:00

Yes he is beautiful. Yes he is a big Blue Bulls fan! So we like him!

A racing car cake - made from Rice Crispies and seriously Yummy!

The Birthday Dude

Now look Spikey - this is how I want this game to work...

Aaah - NOT my rules!

Dylan's 6th Birthday - 29 May 2010

2010-05-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

Friends:

All the friends clustered around the cake

Hannah

Bonolo

Dylan & Hannah

Milan

Friends:

Two Dudes

2010-05-13T10:18:00.001-07:00

Bibi the Great Organiser - as told by Grandpa Brian

2010-04-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

Dylan was sleeping over at his grandparent’s home over the long weekend.
(25 / 26 April 2010)

Needless to say he gets away with a LOT more than at home.

The more he gets away with, the more he pushes the envelope.

Grandpa and Dylan are in the room playing with Lego, Granny is busy washing dishes.

Bibi looks at Grandpa with an impish grin on his face.

“While you and I have fun, Granny can do all the bad stuff he Gwandpa”?

Grandpa is tempted to approve of this brilliant suggestion, but he is a bit more experienced such matters.

Next Bibi finds an old one-note toy flute, that all who remember it, wish it was permanently lost.

Off he skips to the kitchen blowing on it as hard as he can.

“Granny!” he says “Ewery time Gwandpa and I need something, I will whistle for you to come; OK?”

“No chance of that in a million years; I’m on strike!”. Retorts Grandma, of course she thinks she knows where that rhetoric originated.

Grandpa is used to strikes by the Bus Drivers and the Taxi Drivers and the Municipal Workers and and and.

But now granny is threatening to toi toi.

“Maybe your Mom will dance to your tunes. You must remember to take the flute home with you.” Suggests Grandpa, still thinking of how

Bibi has this innate knack of organizing people around him to cooperate with him.

Father and Son

2010-04-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

Le Dad

Le Dude

A swarm of Dudes

School Picture April 2010 - The Handsome Dude

2010-04-28T03:30:00.001-07:00

Photograph by:

Stephanie’s Photography
Tel: 083 297 8026
Email: steph.kugel@ananzi.co.za

26 March 2010: Pre-School Progress Report: Dragonfly Class Grade 0 - Dylan Marais

2010-04-09T05:18:00.000-07:00

The things they say

2010-04-09T04:50:00.000-07:00

So Our Bibi goes to stand next to Mommy and says to Spikey "Look Spikes, I'm as high as my mommy's boobs!"

The short silence was followed by a serious amount of giggling.

Our Windgat Dude

2010-04-06T06:18:00.000-07:00

Mom - I know everything!

2010-03-17T06:34:00.001-07:00

When i came back from my 1st day of grade 1 I told my mom “mom now i know everything!” – that’s many years ago of course.

Seems I had a flashback when Dylan said to me in the car on Sunday during a conversation – “MOM, I know everything don’t you know?”

“why Dylan?” I asked rather amused.

“Coz I know the fire dept telephone number and you DONT!”

So there we have it my 5 year old knows more than the mamma!

Oi...

2010-03-02T03:55:00.000-08:00

Bibi and Moo'tjie 2 (the sequel)

Moo'tjie 1 went on early retirement last year after her head fell of one stormy night. It was truly a Moo'se sad thing.

Le Chef - giving a mouth watering display of Le Carrot Peeling skills (épluchage de carotte)

Well, even Le Great Chef feels Le Pressure of Le Full Bladder!

Look look - a Daytime Knight... Defending the Enchanted Forest of Potted Plants against an invasion of Short Dudes!!

Shield! for men...

How to Feed your Big Bwothe

2010-02-04T01:31:00.001-08:00

How To Feed Your Big Brother: Lesson 1

a. Take 1 slice of cucumber in right hand.

b. Using your amazing Powers of Observation - watch Big Bwothe out of corner of eye. Patience is a virtue. But after 3 or so seconds just proceed anyway coz Oh Man look at that magazine let's tear it up!!!

c. Using your Silent Mind Communication Negotiation & Impulse Control Skills (coz you cant talk yet ok!!!), arrange with gwanny to occupy his attention.

d. STRIKE!! Strike like lightning! Smack that cucumber right into his face! Then watch him suffer.

e. EVASIVE ACTION 101
i. If you can walk already - RUN LIKE HELL!
ii. If you can't walk - just act cool. Someone will intervene, probably between the 1st and 2nd slaps from Big Bwothe. It's ok to cry at this point.
ii. If you are still in your baby seat and can't run - SCREAM FOR HELP. You are in deep, deep Doo-Doo. But it is still worth it.

The brothers in the new go-cart

2010-01-19T00:24:00.000-08:00

Scuse me - can we get the formalities over now? SOMEBODY PUSH US!!

Bibi: "Boetie - this round thingy is a steering wheel. It gives you something to hold on to because you really dont need to keep your eyes on the road you know."
Liam: "My ouboet is just SO clever ne!"

Bibi says "Go that way!" Liam says "I want milk dammit!" Grandpa says "You can't drink and drive man - keep it real!"

Bibi's new go cart

2010-01-18T22:56:00.000-08:00

The Bottoms Up Express

Note the camber on the front wheels - this is a RACING car dude!

Oi!!! Watch where you're going!!!

Ok so we are still trying to figure out if it is a go-cart or a train, but the fun factor is HIGH! Thank you Grampa!

Mobile phones - so good!

2010-01-14T01:09:00.001-08:00

First milk tooth - GONE! 10 December 2009

2009-12-11T00:44:00.000-08:00

Yes! So we were all sitting in the lounge, and the next moment Bibi says "Look here"! And there it is - the haasbekkie!! Of course, the toothfairy paid him a little visit during the night, so today the young man is seriously trying to loosen more teeth.

Got to love that entrepreneurial spirit!

Bibi Various

2009-11-10T05:43:00.000-08:00

Spiderman and Daddy - a superdaddy for a superhero!

Le Dangerous Chef (with loincloth and all!)

More Dylan. Coz we can!

2009-11-09T00:58:00.000-08:00

The 2 brothers

The old Pretoria house - 159B Hesketh, Moweletta Park

Look look, I'm a aewoplane!

Spikes and his Special dude

Spikey and Dylan - in my life I never thought one can miss THIS much!

Bibi with Liam and Mommy - Granny's house

2009-09-18T06:08:00.000-07:00

For Your Children - a poem by Khalil Gibran

2009-09-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you, they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
Which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite.
And He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hands be for happiness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
So He loves the bow that is stable.

Fireplanes at AFB Zwartkops airshow - Saturday 12 September 2009

2009-09-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

The mind of a child is a wonderful thing. On Saturday Spikey took Mommy, Liam and Dylan to the airshow.

As Mommy had a hair appointment, we only got there at 15:00, and stayed till the end to ensure we got to see the fast jets! Probably the longest airshow ever - as the Mirage 3 and Mirage F1 only did their show after 6 that night!

And thank goodness for that - with the dark clouds of eary evening acting as backdrop, those afterburners were just SO brilliant - as brilliant as jewels!

Our Bibi started talking about the Fireplanes. They have been called Vlamgatte for as long as I can remember, but keep in mind that he has never heard that term before - so his version is as original as it gets.

Henceforth all fighter planes shall be know as Fireplanes. Thank you Bibi.

The Bubblebath - 25 August 2009 - Granny's house

2009-08-26T02:47:00.001-07:00

The face really says it all here, so no further comments required:

With Cousin Arnin

2009-08-25T01:59:00.001-07:00

Various Bibi

2009-08-18T05:40:00.000-07:00

Me and Mommy and my Little Bwother Dude

Having fun with my bwother - oh yes we ARE cute!

Wha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

But yes, in case you wondered - I CAN do a proper smile only!

Spiderman - just hangin out wif da family

2009-08-11T01:27:00.001-07:00

I'm a excellent dwiver Spikey

2009-08-06T05:18:00.000-07:00

So Bibi offers to pull Spikey's car into the garage for him, "betause I'm a excellent dwiver you know Spikes - I've been dwiving since I was 4 years old at Mabula!"

See the Mabula posting elsewhere in this blog - the picture of Bibi dwiving Spikey's tar - EVIDENCE you see!!

More Bibi (Spiderman)

2009-07-29T01:09:00.001-07:00

Spiderman and The Brother

Bathtime - even Superheroes must!

Spiderman and George, the Super (stuffed) Dog

2009-07-14T06:04:00.000-07:00

Our very own little Superhero - every superhero must have a dog.

Me and Liam and Mommy

2009-07-06T03:35:00.000-07:00

As usual, I don't take proper pics because I am always pulling faces at the camera! Still, we DO look good together don't we - look at my beautiful mommy!

Oh I love my little brother! I can pick him up you know - I am stwong! I even picked him out of his cot - I am sure mommy's heart will stand the stress!

29 May 2009 - Pre-School Progress Report - Butterfly Class

2009-06-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Ha, time again for another Pre-School progress report for our little hero:

Physical Development:

Show Body Parts - meets the norm
General Health - meets
Eating Habits - meets
Dominance left / right - Right dominance - exceeds

Gross Motor Development:

Run, jump, climb & general movements - meets
Balance - Meets the norm
Handling of ball / bean bag - meets

Fine Motor Development:

Cut with scissors - meets
Colouring in & drawing - still needs lots of practice
Stringing - meets
Pick up small objects - meets

Sensory Development:

Basic shapes - meets
Primary colours - meets
Spatial orientation (in front / behind etc) - meets the norm
Can see differences and similarities - meets
Can recall detail in a picture- exceeds the norm
Identify objects in the background - meets
Matching of objects - meets
Remembers & recalls songs & rhymes - exceeds the norm
Can recall rhythmic patterns - meets

Numeric Concepts:

Counting - 49 skips 15 (well who needs 15 anyway!) - meets
Number identification - 1 to 10 - meets
Counting & sorting objects - 1 to 10 - meets

Language:

Pronunciation & vocabulary - still needs lots of practice
Oral participation in class - exceeds - he is a talker, our Bibi!
Uses sentences of 3 words or more - meets
Listening skills - meets

Life Skills and General:

Concentration - meets
Follow instructions - meets
Task completion - needs lots of practice
Emotional development - meets
Social development with friends - meets
Social development with adults - meets
Puzzle - meets
Creative studies - meets
Handles paint brush correctly - meets
Handles crayons with thumb and fingers - meets
Puts posessions in own bag - meets
Tidies up after activities - meets
Uses toilet independantly - meets
Washes hands before meals and after toilet - meets
Eats without help - meets

Comments June 2009

Dylan is a mature little boy with definite leadership abilities. He is very alert and shows initiative in work or play. It is evident that Dylan concentrates well as he is able to answerin-depth questions. Dylan relates openly with all staff members and enjoys the company of his peers.

He is also very talkative (TOLD YOU!) and enjoys sharing special news in class. He has shown good progress this term but he needs to work harder on his colouring in and drawing. Dylan's pronunciation of some words needs practice but with help this wll improve.

Directress - Mrs C.E. GordonPrincipal - Mrs J.W. Engelbrecht

Bibi - you're the man!

Bibi on the phone to Mommy & Daddy - from Granny's house

2009-06-11T23:59:00.001-07:00

Just saying goodnight!

We love you Bibi!

Bibi's Prayers - 5 June 2009

2009-06-08T01:05:00.000-07:00

In our prayers tonight, amongst other things, Mommy prays that Lord Jesus helps daddy, grandpa, Isaac, Rose, Langman and all the other people at Hydro Cabinets find work – to which I was interrupted “lets ask Lord Jesus for two desks and tomputers and then daddy and grandpa can come and work here at home; i've got homework they can do”.

Bibi the Boxer Dude - no words required

2009-06-04T05:18:00.000-07:00

Mabula 2009

2009-06-04T05:11:00.000-07:00

Also read more about Mabula here at Spikey's Travel Blog:

http://www.travel-southafrica.blogspot.com/

And see more pics at Spikey's Faceblop profile. Did I say Faceblop? I mean Facebook!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/photo.php?pid=2701025&id=553032165&ref=nf

Mommy on the game drive - look, a chicken...!

Bibi driving Spikey's car on the way to the lodge, in the reserve. note the consternation. I mean consentration! On the face! Spikey desperately giving directions. The previous day he drove Daddy's car as well!

Spikey and Bibi - teaching a 5 year old about birdwatching. How cool is that!

Mabula - Bibi's first time in the bush - 29 May to 01 June 2009

2009-06-04T05:03:00.001-07:00

A Blue Bull In a tree!

The Marais Family

Waiting for the ranger to go on that first ever game drive! Note binoculars.

The 2 brothers on the drive.

Bibi in front of the game drive vehicle

For Bibi's 5th Birthday, Ye Grandparents very kindly sponsored a weekend at Mabula Game Lodge, about 40 or so odd kilometers on the "udder" side of Warmbaths, on their timeshare points. For that, we are all very grateful.

Some Bibi Stuff

2009-06-04T04:52:00.000-07:00

Painting the wendyhouse with Isaac Mankge

On the lawn with Oliver (rottweiler), Daddy and Liam.

Bibi and Ollie - that poor ball.

Just being sweet.

Bibi's 5th Birthday - 29 May 2009

2009-06-04T04:42:00.000-07:00

Well, it absolutely HAD to be an Army Theme right? The invitations were rather unique.

Attie very kindly sponsored the cake. Mommy and Bibi did the baking part. And once he went to bed, Daddy and Spikey made a Tank out of it! Ok well, more of an armoured car really...

Yes - that is the cannon alright! (a dipped flake)

Bibi deciding who gets what the Friday night after we arrived at Mabula Lodge - courtesy of Granny and Grandpa - THANK YOU!

Getting a hug from a friend at school the Friday morning.

2009-06-04T04:37:00.000-07:00

All camouflaged and ready to go!

Brotherly love

Grandpa and the boyz

This is just nice!

Liam all tied up - what are older brothers for huh!

Spikey Stuff

2009-06-04T04:26:00.000-07:00

Spikey's Birthday - 6 March 2009 - and everybody HAD to be camouflaged... (those special forces dudes can only dream to do camo THIS good!)

Preparing to blow out the candles - only 6 because 43 would have taken forever!

Spikey singing Happy Birthday to himself. (Outside the dog started howling...)

Dylan being, well, Dylan.

Bibi and his Spikey

Dylan writes an email to Spikey

2009-05-26T06:37:00.000-07:00

As received from Mommy's email - 25 May 2009

Dear Spikey

Sdsdadadsdsdzsdsxaxdaxxxaxaxxxaxxaxaaxaxxxxxzaszaxaxa
xazxxxxxaxxxaxaxaxxaxsxzxaaxazaxaxaxsvscddkgjlhkglnjmt
kjmjgnnhmhmhmfbng
mjmhjmg,j,tmmmhmmh,ghmnmhmjmjmjkjmjmjm,jmmjmjmjm
mj,jj,ffnmfgfdddd dddotktotoyoytitkitritrkftmmgt,g,g,g,gmg,,,f,r.
f/,ldf;gmgl;d,flf,fk
g,kgmd,f,flg,mh
mhmhmgmfmvgmdfmdm dmdmmg,gtltkt,flflfdlflfllflfklflfrlflflglf
lfldrlflgtllglf;d;d’
E[dd[d[d[[d;dflfkgd’rd;g;sd;f;f;df.f;;gf;g;k;jljlhlhhy;g;;h;;hg;f;;g;g.
ghlhkghj,lgt;t .glhlhlhj
Lgmgkgf,g,gh,g,g, gm,g,tym,,g,g,g,g,gf,g,g,g,,glgykltrflfkckgkslfjdf
mxd;mj,f;hkkghkf
mdrkdfmfmkqmjskfdjd
mddndnsjwdsdcddnnnmsjdkdjfkrrjfjfjgjgkhjhkhkhykyjgjtjrkttjt
rjtr5jrjtrtjrftfghugtuyki
hyjhmhmnhm,khkhkgkgkgkktk rktkkktktmtrttktktttttttttttt
ttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
ttttttttttttttttkktjt

Hope you can understand this – its my own special language

Firirjrjrjrjiuiewkfroririttytotrotrotiehrrlleldelepwpwwwpwkgkelr
fvmbngnggmmggmgm
gmgmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
mmgffgblggggggkgkfg
ttttggggkggkhkkhjfglflelffrlr;g;ylrltl5trtlrrlrleleeleleeeeelelekrkgyii
yttttrttttlt6ltktkgkfkg
kgtkgktktrjtytt45ii4iri3i4i5i4i4iri45o5i5i55i5orkkrototototooo5p45
io5iip4prpprptptpyy
poupuppi[o[oiuouuoo776o7i7i77io4i6io4o6o6o56o5o6oo666o666o56
o4i55u54j5
j44i56i5ii3ker,gm3
,m,t,rkr,b,fg,ttkmktjtktkkrkktrkttkttttghjhfkhjhhjhjfkgttjkgjgjhjhjhhh
jhjhjhjggjmgjjgj
ggghgghghghhjgghhhjhjjjjjjjjjjjjhhhhjhnhhhjjttktktkrrrrrktktktktktt
itiggkgkgfflf;fvllggjjjf
kffffffkgkgkgffftrfrddrrfrjrjfvffggjkfgjgghkghkgjhjhhhhhhhhhjhjjhjyj
yhkgkgkgkgkggjkgj
gkgjbmkgkgkgfkfkfkfkgfkgfgjjgggggggggggggggggg gkgkggkgkgkgggggggggggggggggggggggggggkgkgfjfjfhjfjffkvmfmk
gkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
kkgkgkgkggkgkgkgkgkgkfkgfggkgkgkdfkjrjfrjfjfjfjfjfffjfjfjffjfjjfjfjjjjjj
jjjjjjffjfffjjfffffjfjfjfjfjfjjs
djfjdjjsssffjjfjkfjfjjfjjjfjd

Love Dylan
D y l a n (he typed his own name here)

Glenda Marais
Project Manager
Web:
http://www.o5webdesign.com/

HOW SPECIAL IS THAT!

The things Bibi says:

2009-05-13T02:38:00.000-07:00

13 May 2009

Little Liam was lying on Mommy's bed, drooling and doing baby thingies, when Bibi looked at Mommy and said in a very serious voice - "mommy, he looks a hundred percent cute, and he is starting to look like a baby!"

A while ago:

Whilst driving, Bibi hears another car hooting - obviously at somebody not driving properly - and shouted "You stupid woman driver!" When Mommy - very indignantly - questioned him about this - he replied that he heard it in 101 Dalmations!

Bibi & Mommy - 19 April 2009

2009-04-20T00:20:00.000-07:00

Check al daai tande!!

The Groaning Tower of .. uh.. well.. ah...

2009-04-15T06:55:00.001-07:00

Tower building with Spikey is serious business.

Spikey - do it pwopewly now otay!

Oh my - some naked stuff for the girlfriend one day

2009-04-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

The Hunk(y) ...

Ha ha - just joking!

11 April 2009 - Irene Dairy with Keanu and Eunan

2009-04-15T06:42:00.000-07:00

Note how clean the farm implements are at this venue - see the bubbles!

What the?? Where are the bubbles now!!

I knew it! Tractors are funny things...

Or are they?

Mmmm. Let's just think about that one.

11 April 2009 - at the Wene-I-Daiwy (Irene Dairy)

2009-04-15T06:32:00.003-07:00

Just showing everybody where to go...

The whole family! Well, except for Brother Oliver and Sister Mollie of course.

The "thinking up nonsense" face

The "I dont believe you" face

The "ag man just leave me alone" face

Bibi, the youngest kitchen designer at Hydro Cabinets

2009-04-06T01:00:00.000-07:00

Want a new kitchen? Dial 0-8-6-d-y-l-a-n TODAY - if you dial RIGHT NOW we will also throw in a totally, 100% FREE "help-me-understand-this-plan" manual in e-book format! But that's not all! If you also say "Bibi is the Greatest" when you phone in, we will also throw in not one, not two, but THREE sets of Noddy Boxer underpants!

Our operators are waiting for your call.

Dylan's Drawing

2009-03-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

This from Grandma Cheryl regarding this painting our Bibi did to demonstrate that he misses his bunny that died - very sweet:

"I've been wanting to send you this painting to put on the web. Its one of the bunnies graves, gee I was real choked up when he showed me were his bunny was buried, note the house, tree, cross and not to forget the grass. "

Click on the link to open the painting:

http://www.o5demo.com/dylan.PDF

The things Bibi says - On Favourite Toes

2009-03-12T04:36:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday 11 March 2009 our Bibi bumped his toe. Like he really did a good job - took lots of skin off his big toe! A real Little Boy wound you see. Feeling very sorry for himself, of course, he told Mommy that he is very sad he bumped it because it is his FAVOURITE toe.

Do YOU have a favourite toe?! Get one - it's apparently a cool thing.

Then, on Thursday, Mommy asked him to do her a favour with something and Bibi said his legs were a little too tired.

Mommy asked why and he says "Mommy, Jesus made me like this!"

He he he, Bibi - a true Word Warrior!

Bibi & Friends playing at Moo Mall

2009-02-23T01:39:00.000-08:00

Bibi, Hannah and Maria - ice cream time!

The Dude in the Fountain - telling the water to stay the heck down!

Bibi & Books

2009-02-15T23:27:00.000-08:00

The little guy sure loves books - thanx to the parents and a Bookworm Granny!

Us Dudes

2009-01-30T05:13:00.000-08:00

With Spikey

Quite right - I AM the dude!

The Fire Brigade - Saturday 24 January 2009

2009-01-30T04:56:00.000-08:00

This was such a cool trip!

That ladder reaches 7 floors high - As high as a aewoplane!

Me, Daddy and Floris - he is in charge of the Centurion Fire Station and arranged the trip for us. Thank you Floris!!!!

Yes it's nice, but it's NOISY! That is Floris' helmet by the way - it's heavy too! Wow - firemen are STRONG dudes.

And then we all got taken for a spin in this ladder truck - and afterwards Bibi, Mommy, Daddy and Spikey just could not decide who enjoyed the ride in a real firetruck the most! The debate is ongoing, but Spikey swears it was him

The various faces of Bibi

2009-01-30T04:42:00.000-08:00

The Fireman - yes that's a WEAL firetwuck!

Le Chef

Rambo Dude, eat your heart out!

Oh Captain - army dudes everywhere...

Instructing the chef... Saturday 24 January 2009

2009-01-28T08:01:00.000-08:00

So Mommy makes french toast.

And our Bibi gets the first slice, as becomes the real boss...

Then he turns to Mommy and says "Madam Mawais, I want to tell you somefing. This bwead needs more fwying!"

Even Jamie Oliver would have a giggle at that!

Xmas 2008 - just helping Santa feed the reindeer you know

2009-01-28T02:33:00.000-08:00

Now listen here Santa Dude - let me tell you somefink.

Silly old Santa...

The 2 brothers

2008-12-10T04:55:00.001-08:00

Some pictures don't really need words, and absolutely HAS to be on both blogs:

Bibi's Pre School Report - December 2008

2008-12-08T03:43:00.000-08:00

Wow, time flies when you're a growing 4 year old dude! Time for another report - Mommy and Daddy and The Grandpawents and Spikey and evewybody told me they were so pwoud of me!

(Psst - listen here in your ear - I don't WEALLY know what that means but if it means I can have some more ginger biscuits its pwetty cool hey!)

Physical Development:

Show Body Parts - Exceeds the norm
General Health - exceeds
Eating Habits - exceeds
Dominance left / right - Right dominance - exceeds

Gross Motor Development:

Run, jump, climb & general movements - exceeds
Balance - Meets the norm
Handling of ball / bean bag - exceeds

Fine Motor Development:

Cut with scissors - exceeds
Colouring in & drawing - meets
Stringing - exceeds
Pick up small objects - exceeds

Sensory Development:

Basic shapes - exceeds
Primary colours - exceeds
Size concepts - exceeds
See differences & similarities - meets
Matching of objects - exceeds
Remembers & recalls songs & rhymes - exceeds
Can recall rhythmic patterns - meets

Numeric Concepts:

Counting - 1 to 30 - exceeds
Number identification - 1 to 5 - exceeds
Counting & sorting objects - meets

Language:

Pronunciation & vocabulary - exceeds
Oral participation in class - exceeds (Ha! Oral participation EVERYWHERE - FAR EXCEEDS!!)
Uses sentences of 3 words or more - exceeds
Listening skills - exceeds

Life Skills and General:

Concentration - exceeds
Follow instructions - exceeds (bet mommy & daddy might have something to add here...)
Task completion - exceeds
Emotional development - exceeds
Social development with friends - exceeds
Social development with adults - exceeds
Puzzle - meets
Creative studies - meets
Handles paint brush correctly - exceeds
Handles crayons with thumb and fingers - exceeds
Puts posessions in own bag - exceeds
Tidies up after activities - meets
Uses toilet independantly - exceeds
Washes hands before meals and after toilet - exceeds
Eats without help - exceeds

Comments December:

Dylan moves energetically and is enjoying the friendships he has made. He is always friendly and affectionate towards adults. He has no trouble in executing tasks but his work is sometimes rushed which lowers the standard of his work.

It has been a priviledge to share in Dylan's overall development and growth. He has matured into a valuable member of the class with good manners. He is a lovely, caring boy. We wish him well in the 4 - 5 year class next year!

Directress - LBotha / R Andrews
Principal - J Engelbrecht

That's our Bibi - we truly are proud little dude, even if you dont fully catch it yet!

And on the very same Concert Day:

2008-12-07T22:30:00.000-08:00

Mommy is in hospital with Liam, (Grandpa insists on calling him William) and Bibi is with grandma and grandpa. A wonderful interaction of jokes and laughter between the grandparents and Bibi , inspires grandpa to ask him if he attends the Montissouri school of clowns. “No gwanpa, we learn about Jesus at tool.” comes the reply.

“We must leave now if we want to get to the concert before ten!” Suggests granny, “You know what the N1 looks like on Saturday mornings, AND it is the end of the month.” Bibi immediately retorts that the wadio said that a twuck lost its load of bananas by the Wigel avenue offwamp . “That was yesterday. No need to stress, we have 30minutes to get to the Montissouri school of clowns” says grandpa, patting his pockets in search of the car keys.

Off they go with 35 minutes to spare, enough time to go to the airport, or even to Jo’burg for that matter. Up the onramp to the N1 and oops! A traffic jam six cars wide and a zillion long. It must be the bananas! Of course grandma has her say that sounds something like: “Oh my! I wonder what could have caused this?” But rings more accurately of “See, I told you what it would be like! Now we’ll be late.”

Quick thinking grandpa takes the off ramp back to the N4 West and the on ramp onto the N1 North followed by the off ramp to the N4 East. The whole clover. “Now we will use our GPS to find another way to the clown school” says grandpa fiddling with the apparatus to point it in the school’s general direction. “Drive Safely” ……..”U-Turn” says the lady in the GPS; in a voice akin to that used by young mothers to soothe their distraught babies. “Not likely sweetheart, you don’t know about the jam back there!” ………..”Route recalculation”. ………”Five hundred meters turn right.” “Aah. Now we’re cookin!

See grandma, I talk nicely to her, and she understands.” ……..”Two hundred meters, turn right.” ….Grandpa obediently follows the instruction and accelerates a tad over the limit to gain a bit of time. “One hundred meters, turn right.” “Aaah no! She wants to go to the N1 again!” Grandpa ignores the instruction and proceeds South down Linburn avenue. “Now we are going further away from the school. We should have gone to Hans Strydom!” Cries granny in utter despair. “Route recalculation.”

“Turn right, turn right” “That ….. Is not going to happen!” responds grandpa, trying to assert his authority on the GPS lady and makes a firm left into Lynwood road. “She does not know about the bananas gwanpa.” “Where are you going?” enquires grandma with a voice that only grannies get when their grandchildren are going to be late for concerts. “Trust me; I am going to get us there. If I have to follow you or sweetie over here we will end up in either Bronkhorstspruit or in a banana fruit salad.”

“Route recalculation, two kilometers, turn right.” Followed by silence from grandma and a giggle from Bibi. “She doesn’t listen to the wadio, hey gwanpa?”

The clock struck ten when Bibi was ushered into the wings of the stage by his teacher. Daddy and Spikey were relieved to see grannie and grandpa sneaking into the back row as the opening address by the principal came to an end.

Bibi's Dancing Concert

2008-11-30T23:52:00.000-08:00

Well, did we have fun on Saturday or what - Bibi's dancing class had their concert to show all the parents what they have learned during the year. Unfortunately Mommy couldn't make it because she had to stay in hopspital with little Liam who was very sick! Bibi was NOT very happy about this, and neither was mommy, but what can one do!

Here are some pictures:

The clever things Bibi says

2008-11-04T22:54:00.001-08:00

This dude never ceases to amaze us. Last night at the dinner table we were having chicken and baby marrows (in a lekker cheese sauce nogal) - and Master decided he is NOT eating that stuff. Uh uh. No way. Forget it. Lag dit af man. Chicken only thank you very much!

So Daddy tries to convince him by telling him he won't get a bible story if he doesn't eat at least half of the baby marrows.

And then he comes up with this jewel of an answer, while pointing at the chicken : "Daddy, if I get enough pwotein, I will be fine, then you can wead me a bible stowy otay?"

Needless to say, no further conversation was possible after that. Do you know how hard it is to laugh with your mouth full!!!!

Oh sweet Bibi, you really can make the darkest day seem bright and cheery and we love you for it.

Singing to my little brother Liam

2008-11-03T08:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Sunday, I lay on Mommy's bed with her and Liam, and she asked me to sing to my brother. So I did! I sang De La Rey De La Rey! I am pwetty certain he liked it - he did burp, and I think he made this squeeky kind of a noise as well - maybe that is why Mommy calls him Mouse! He he he - how silly! Focus dudes!

My brother is born!!!!!!!

2008-10-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

And so, on this wonderful day of 27 October 2008, my little brother Liam was born, at 5 minutes to eleven at night. Mommy didn't have too much time, so the labour lasted only 2 hours, and Liam weighed in at a wapping 4.28 kilograms! Waterbirth, no drugs - go mommy!! Both Mommy and my baby brother are healthy and doing great and I cannot wait to get to know him better!

I am now a Big Brother!

Read my brother's blog - www.thenewdude.blogspot.com

Bibi gets cute

2008-08-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

Not that he has a problem being cute. Cute comes naturally to this little dude!

So tonight mommy was having a wee while Bibi was in the bath. Being pregnant with the next little Marais'tjie, she suffers from some discomfort and pains, like pregnant fairies are prone to.

So she gives a couple of groans, and Bibi turns to her and says "Don't worry Sweetie!"

Well now. He said it all!

As typed and drawn by The Bibi himself - 25 June 2008

2008-06-25T01:59:00.000-07:00

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The things he says...

2008-06-09T07:50:00.001-07:00

On Saturday 7 June, Mommy was making a nice and simple lunch - Portuguese loaf, apricot jam, cheese spread and tomato.

Spikey was informed that, if he does his usual - mix the cheese and apricot jam - on his bread, he is going to die! This by Mommy. Dylan caught on to this of course - Dylan is Quasi Latin for "He who misses nothing" after all!

So a short while later when Mommy asked him what he wants on his bread - he politely informed her: "Nothing, I don't want to die!"

Needless to say, the grownups almost fell of their chairs laughing.

Funny little dude!

29 May 2008 - Bibi's 4th Birthday

2008-06-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

And so it came about, in the Year of our Lord 2008, that our precious little Dylan Gavin Marais celebrated his 4th birthday. And what a great day he had!

The previous night he helped mommy bake some stuff - appletart and muffins, to take with to school - he loves helping in the kitchen - and on The Big Day two of his friends came home with him from school - Bonolo and Milan, and Hannah and Maria also joined them later on.

Of course, the big hype started long in advance as the Dude started counting sleepies, and he did NOT appreciate the fact that he had to wait so long! So when the big day dawned - he was on Cloud 9! Boy, we should all be that hyped up about our birthdays! This little dude was flying!

And he got such nice presents! From Mommy and Daddy a stove that Daddy made at the factory, as well as some pots and pans and an apron and chef's hat. Pink nogal!

From Granny and Grandpa a flying insect - well, a helicopter that looks like a bee to be exact - and radio controlled to boot!

From Alicia a car track with a loop - boy do those cars GO!

From Spikey some piwate stuff - a sword and hook and eypatch etc, and also a big yellow truck. Oh he loves his piwate outfit - seeing as how he wants to be a piwate when he grows up.

From Handri (Hannah & Maria's mom) a very cute balsawood kit police car and a storybook & cd combination - The Princess and the Pea.

From Bonolo and her mommy Mosadi - a beautiful Spiderman sleeping bag.

We will be posting some pics very soon!

Happy birthday our little Bibi - we all love you very, very much and wish you a year full of wonderful, little boy, fun filled days.

Dylan - back to school

2008-04-21T02:07:00.000-07:00

Apparently writing is quite a big thing nowadays....

The things Bibi says...

2008-04-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

1 April 2008 - Mommy, when i gwo up I want to be a piwate!

Okey dokey dude - we will be watching this spot.........

30 March 2008 - He says to Mommy after evening prayers: "Mommy, Jesus is going on holiday to Cape town, did you hear me sing goodbye to Him? He is going to Soul's (Charl) house!"

Any further comments required? I think not....