Thomas Family

Been too long...

2011-07-02T21:23:00.004+08:00

Well, it has been awhile since I have written anything...
I am finding my feelings hard to put into words, so many things have gone by since February...

James and Liam would have started high school together this year...

James would have turned 15 in April...

Brent has turned 18 in June...

I have gone back to work at Swan View...

Shane is very busy with the business...

Liam is doing really well at high school...

Brent started University...

My little brother and his wife are pregnant...

I am going to be an aunty again...

My mum and dad are healthy...

Two of my wonderful friends from PMH have had gorgeous babies...

I have a new car...

Time keeps ticking by...

My heart still hurts...

Two Years On .........

2011-02-09T17:45:00.006+08:00

But who is counting, every day without you James is one day too many.

We all go on, taking each day, one at a time.

Missing you so very much, that gorgeous smile, that we all seemed to catch.

That endless energy that none of us could keep up with.

The mischieveness that kept us all on our toes.

Your humour, that made us all laugh.

The way you always looked for the good in everyone.

You always ensured that everyone else was happy first.

You were the glue that kept us all together.

The fun you put into everything.

The kiss on our cheeks.

The first cuddle in the morning.

The strength you showed.

The courage you carried.

Always being positive.

Enjoying everything, every day.

Showing everyone, that is was okay.

That we should all fight for every moment we have with each other.

Love each other like there is no tomorrow.

Be there for your family.

Remember.

xoxox

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T14:50:00.009+08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE

We had a lovely day with family and friends. We had Shane's brother Chris and his family and Shane's sister Sharon and her family and my mum and dad over for Christmas lunch. It was good to have something to do, to be busy, to have to clean, to organise, to entertain people and just be busy. I had my moments throughout the day, just times when I wished James could see something funny, taste something yummy, look at a present, listen to someone telling a story . . .

We all got lovely presents and the boys were spoilt as normal. I got back into sending Christmas cards this year and placed the above photo of the boys on them. We have been getting the Christmas bears for James so included them in the photo too. I got this idea from our dear friend Fiona, as she did the same for Imogen.

We all had a wonderful day, we also sent our James some yellow balloons in the afternoon, we hope that you got them our beautiful boy. Missing you here with us.

xoxox

Make A Wish Porsche Day

2010-11-03T20:41:00.006+08:00

The boys were invited to the Make A Wish Porsche day on Sunday to display the remote control electric cars. Shane and Brent jumped at the chance to give something back to a very worthwhile cause. Liam and I went along to look at all the cars, they were amazing. Very expensive and shiny. We had a wonderful morning out in the sun at the carpark in Highgate. I had lots of fun taking lots of photos and dreaming of a lotto win!!!

Thank you to Porsche Club WA for running such a wonderful event for all the Make A Wish families, there were 80 different families there on the day and 100 porsches showed up to take the families on a wonderful car ride from Hillaries to Perth. The Hyatt then put on a wonderful lunch for the drivers and the families. I am sure a good times was had by everyone.

Drool over these photos, just amazing!!!

10.10.10

2010-10-11T09:53:00.003+08:00

Well, what a date yesterday.

20 months since James left us.

Liam and James are 20 months apart.

Liam is now older than his big brother James.

So weird.

It is just so surreal.

Not really knowing how to put it into words.

Liam is coming to terms with it as well.

He said to me yesterday, how do I say that James is my older brother,

when he is not older any more?

Days pass, time ticks by, but our love just seems to grow deeper.

Whether you are near or far away, you are always in my heart and mind.

xoxox

A Surprise Visit!

2010-10-07T12:20:00.007+08:00

We were very lucky this week with a surprise visit from James, yes you read right, our James. My mum found an old camera with a film still inside. She was unable to start it and after many phone calls to find someone that could develop an old film and get it out of the camera, Mum found one in Forrestfield. They were very helpful and got the film out and sent it away to be developed. We were all holding our breath and hoping that there would be photos of James, but none of us actually said it out loud. When mum texted me, she said the photos were beautiful and that she would come around with them. I was too excited and scared to ask if there where any of James.

When mum arrived I knew that there must be some of James, just the look she gave me. They are beautiful. I have scanned them on me negative reader, but will take the negatives to a shop and have them put on cd as they can do such a better job than mine. I have included them with the blog. I feel so blessed to have this small piece of James, it is so hard to describe. I think the best way is that 'he has visited us'!

Missing you heaps my beautiful boy!!

We all love you so much.

xoxox

Time after Time

2010-07-12T13:11:00.004+08:00

Some days, time just rushes past us in a flash and before we know it, a month has gone by. Other days, time goes oh so slow. It is amazing that, when I look back over my blog pages, I see so many emotions, happy, sad, angry, loneliness and longing to see our loved ones again.

Lots have been going on since I last wrote. Brent has been through quite a bit of late, final Semester one exams, reports, turning 17 and he got his driving license today. I have been dreading this day for a while now. Knowing that Brent has come of age were he is not so dependant on me any more. It has bought about some heart tearing emotions. The worry of him driving by himself, although he is a good driver, quite relaxed, not too nervous, careful of other drivers and respectful of the power a car has. The only real worry is he has a heavy foot and sometimes drives a little too fast, but he is a teenage boy and will soon learn his lessons of speeding. Brent is such a good kid, he has a good head on his shoulders and I trust him, it is just now that he can drive himself, there are the dangers of the road, many that I can no longer have control over. I think this is what is worrying me the most, that I can not keep him safe any more, it is up to him to keep himself safe. The loss of control, his independance, knowing he can really do what he wants now. Not really having to ask my permission to go somewhere, if he wants to go and he has got petrol, well then he can drive himself. I gather over time, I will learn to live with this fear. I miss him needing me already. :(

On another lighter note, Liam is doing well, keeping himself busy on the holidays. Going over mates houses for sleep overs, going paintballing, going to the movies and just hanging around at home, relaxing as he tells me. He is growing up fast too. This is his last year in primary school, we think we have decided to go to Swan View High as there doesnt really seem to be any other high schools around that we can get into easily. His best mate is going there too so he will have someone to hang out with.

Shane is busy as normal, working very hard to get all his jobs done. He has a few lined up at the moment which is good, but also it puts the pressure on him to finish them in a timely manner. I helped him out today. He got delivered some big heavy beams to the workshop and his brother Chris wasn't there to help, so I had to give him a hand to move them into the workshop so he could start welding and assembling them into something that resembled the base of a deck. Lots of fun, not. I look at the materials that were delivered and am amazed at how he puts it all together and gets such a beautiful finished job at the end. He is truely talented.

I am still working at the local school two days a week and am still looking for some extra days or a part time position in school hours. I still feel that although the boys are getting older and don't need me as much, I want to be there for them when they come home from school, on the holidays and just whenever they might need me. I am holding onto the apron strings with both hands still, it is slipping through a little bit, but I am trying to hold on. I know I will have to let go soon, but I just can't seem to let go just yet.

Our time away from James has been 1 year and 5 months last Saturday 10 July. We all miss him soooo much, some days worse than others. I think that is why I am trying to hold on, I feel like I need another child to fill that empty space, but I know that won't fix it either. Sometimes it is just too quiet in this house, even when all the boys are home, it really is lacking James' boisterous voice and his running around with boundless energy. Some days I just feel like I have no energy to even try and put on a smile for anyone. It doesn't get easier.

I miss you James everyday.

xoxox

Another Angel in Heaven :(

2010-05-02T08:42:00.012+08:00

Yesterday, beautiful Imogen Holmes lost her battle against the horrible disease that is cancer. Immie found her angel wings at 1:19am. She is now at peace, with no pain, no cancer, free to run, play, jump and swim!!

We will all miss you Imogen, you have touched so many people in your far to short life. Look after James for us, run and play with your 'husband' Blake, make sure that Josh shares your Ben 10 things and cuddle and kiss beautiful little Savannah for her mum. We know you will get then all organised, and they will do as you tell them too!!

Sweet dreams Immie, fly free ........

xoxox

Happy 14th Birthday James

2010-04-17T20:09:00.005+08:00

James' last birthday in 2008, at the Dads and Lads Camp with Camp Quality!!

Well, I can't believe my beautiful Angel Boy will be 14 tomorrow.

Happy birthday sweet heart, we hope you have a great day and you can blow out all those candles.

We will sing you happy birthday here and hopefully you will hear us!

It is amazing, I was looking for the last photo of James' Birthday in 2008 and have just realised that I was not there on the day. It has come as a shock to me, that I wasn't there for his last birthday here with us. It is amazing how you forget so many things. It was the first time that I wasn't there and it is now continuing. I am not there, to give him a birthday kiss, hug and showering him with presents, love and good wishes for a happy day. Congratulate him on how old he is getting and that we are so very proud of all that he has done. Last year I seemed to go through the day in a daze, as it was so close to when we said goodbye. This year I am torn apart that he is not here, not knowing what to do, where to go, how to celebrate a birthday that will never be.

My heart is aching for our dear James, wishing he was here. Also for the Holmes Family that will also struggle with a special birthday on Monday week. Little Imogen with turn 6 on the 26 April. Whether Imogen keeps going till then or she goes to sleep forever, it will be a hard day for her family as well. Anniversaries, Christmas, Easter, Birthdays, all special times when families are supposed to be together, are always the hardest times. Every day is a struggle without our Angel Babies with us, but on special days it is just so much harder.

Please sing Happy Birthday to James tomorrow, think of all the cool teenager things he would be up to. Think of the Holmes family who are preparing themselves for the worst heartache any parent can think of.

Have a great day James, catch the wishes we are sending you!!

xoxox

Missing You, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

2010-04-05T13:30:00.011+08:00

We are connected,

My child and I,

By an invisible cord

Not seen by the eye.

It's not like the cord

That connects us 'til birth

This cord can't been seen

By any on Earth.

This cord does it's work

Right from the start.

It binds us together

Attached to my heart.

I know that it's there
Though no one can see
The invisible cord
From my child to me.

The strength of this cord
Is hard to describe.

It can't be destroyed

It can't be denied.

It's stronger than any cord

Man could create

It withstands the test

Can hold any weight.

And though you are gone,

Though you're not here with me,

The cord is still there

But no one can see.

It pulls at my heart

I am bruised...I am sore,

But this cord is my lifeline

As never before.

I am thankful that God

Connects us this way

A mother and child

Death can't take it away!

~ author unknown

Missing you

always

James Christopher Thomas.

xoxox

365 days, 12 Months, 1 Year .......

2010-02-10T14:02:00.013+08:00

Missing you James, every day, every hour, every minute ...........

2010

2010-02-01T13:16:00.011+08:00

Christmas Morning

Well, the new year has well and truly begun, already into the second month, which is bringing us so many different emotions.

Christmas was a quiet time for us, revolving around close family. New Year was brought in with close friends. We needed to be close as a family, holding onto each other for support and strength. We had a quiet holidays, although managed to be quite busy. Brent went to Sydney on a 'CanTeen' camp, which he thoroughly enjoyed and the other times he was working. Liam and myself went down to Bunbury for a night to visit wonderful friends and also managed to see some movies. Shane was kept quite busy with work, although he had some trouble with other businesses closing over the festive season and not being able to get supplies.

The boys went back to school today, Liam started Year 7 and Brent is in Year 12. Both will be in their final years. It is amazing how when your kids start something that will be their last time that it makes you think of times gone by. The memories of them little came flooding back today, Brent in Kindy, some 13 years ago, he was sooo cute. Liam being just a baby at the time, having James getting into everything, climbing and running. To think really it was not that long ago, although Liam keeps telling me that it is. I am sure it won't be too long until he is saying to me, 'Mum where did the time go?'

Brent with his Kindy Teacher - When Liam was born - My Three Sons

It is a big year of firsts and lasts, Brent will get his car licence, complete his education and become more independant. Liam will complete primary school, go away to Year 7 camp and grow up far to quickly. It will be the first anniversary of James' passing. Not sure what feelings that will bring, but am bracing myself. I have a job for the whole year, I have not been employed since James got sick some three years ago. Shane with the business, exploring new opportunities and hopefully a new ute!!!

So many things are going around in my head, thinking of times passed, but looking to the future, wondering what it will bring. We as a family have been through so many emotions over the holidays and have many more to come. It is just taking time to be able to processes it all. The thought of Brent growing sooooo quickly is just mind boggling. It makes you realise that you must stop and take the time with your kids, because before you know it, they are all grown up. You are just left with each other. Although that is nice, it gives us time to re-connect and enjoy what brought us together in the start.

Well to all I hope that 2010 is good to you. That we can all enjoy this new beginning of a new year and be kind to each other. Remember the good times that have passed and treasure the ones to come.

Remember to love your family and always ring your MUM!!!
xoxox

My First Christmas in Heaven

2009-12-22T20:50:00.006+08:00

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below,
With tiny lights like heavens stars reflecting on the snow,
The sight is so spectacular please wipe away the tear,
For I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,
But the sound of music can’t compare with the Christmas choir up here,
I have no words to tell you the Joy their voices bring,
For it is beyond description to hear the angels sings,
I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart,
But I am not far away we really aren’t apart.

So be happy for me dear ones you know I hold you dear
and be glad I’m spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year,
I send you each a special gift from my heavenly home above,
I send you each a memory of undying love,
After all love is a gift more precious than gold,
it always was most important in the stories Jesus told.

Please love and keep each other as my Father said to do,
For I can’t count his blessings he has for each of you,
Do have a merry Christmas and wipe away that tear,
Remember I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

Anon.

The James Thomas Room

2009-11-30T17:28:00.014+08:00

Well, what a special day. Today at our lovely primary school, that all the boys have attended and Liam still is attending, dedicated a new refurbished room in honour of our James.

The area is in the 'B' block of the school buildings, with classrooms all around the out side and a rectangle shaped space in the middle. When we first went to Swan View 9 years ago, this area was open with a few plants and lots of storage area with discarded items. Over the time we have been there, there have been a number of times to try and clean the area up. Last year our wonderful new principal, Marg managed to get it enclosed and cleaned up. It has lovely soft floor matting, roof over head with fans, lighting, tables, chairs, fridge and many more. They made the decision to call the room after James after much consideration. For a while it was just called the green room but Marg felt it needed something more. It was with honour that we agreed to naming the room 'The James Thomas Room' or JT for short. It showed us that James touched so many people in so many ways and will continue to do so through his name on this room.

We were lucky to share this special event with some of James' friends from his time at school, some of his teachers that are still at Swan View and close family. We had a fantastic morning tea, (thanks Mrs McGlew you are a great cook!) and we also released some yellow balloons, which seemed so fitting.

It was a lovely morning to remember our James.

Congratulations Phil & Lis

2009-09-27T19:41:00.007+08:00

Yesterday my older brother Philip got married to a wonderful lady Elisabeth. I had the pleasure of taking the photos of such a beautiful couple. It was a lovely day, the sun was out and the warmth was fantastic. We had a great time, full of love and laughter. Lis is such a joy to be around, her smile just lights up her beautiful face and embraces you to smile along with her. She has the most beautiful family and sister. They have welcomed us into their family as we have to Lis into ours. It was lovely to be happy and joyous and celebrate. I really needed it.

Phil is happy again, laughing and enjoying his new life. It was very special to see the way he was around Lis, it made you feel good. I wish them all the best in their new journey together as husband and wife. To laugh together, play together and love together. Congratulations.

Another Milestone........

2009-09-09T17:31:00.004+08:00

Well this week has been quite trying in many ways. I have known that tomorrow was fast approaching and just wished I could stop it. 7 months and it just seems like yesterday that I could hug and kiss my beautiful boy James.

We have had some sad news from the Holmes Family about beautiful Immogen. Immie has relapsed for the third time. It is very hard for her family but as our wonderful Miss Immie is such a battler and fighter we are not giving up hope. As long as she can fight we must all fight along with her. Stand by Fiona, Jason and Kody, offer support and positive thoughts and prayers. This disease is such a tough fight but our precious kids are worth the struggle. The treatment they endure, needles, scans and many procedures amaze us all in the strength they carry. I know I have learnt many lessons from James and many others that are still fighting. We need to remember these brave kids and thank them for how much they have given to us and everyone that they have touched. We should be very grateful for being able to walk, talk, sing and dance. Listen to music, enjoy the sunshine, treasure our children and be happy to have the chance to make things better.

Some days are harder than others but as we are left behind we must make the most of it. I know James would tell me to stop crying and it will all be ok. I just wish for one more hug, one more moment............

Sending good thoughts, vibes and prayers to the Holmes Family, stay together, help each other and wipe the tears together.

Family is what life is really all about.

6 months........

2009-08-10T10:34:00.010+08:00

Today is a very hard day, I have been thinking about this day for quite a few weeks. Not looking forward to it, dreading it. I knew it was going to be hard but it is really hard. We now have James' room painted and Brent has moved it. It has bought back some life again in the room. Brent has been wonderful and kept a picture that James had hanging in his room, he as made room to display some of his things as well. I love looking at James' things that he has collected, played with, enjoyed and treasured. I dream of watching him play with them again.

We all miss him soooo much, it is amazing the giant hole that has been left.

You Will Never Be Forgotten

written by Jessica Andrews

I'll always see your face

The corner of your smile

And all the little things that no one will ever know

Like it was yesterday, won't ever fade away

Goodbye is just a word that I will never say

You will never be forgotten

A million days could pass us by

But what is time but just a dream

Oh I still feel you here with me

You're more than just a memory

Oh you will never be forgotten

I can't hold you hand

Or look into your eyes

And when I talk to you

It just echoes in my mind

But if hearts are made of dust

And if we fell from the stars

I look up tonight and know just where you are

You will never be forgotten

A million days could pass us by

But what is time but just a dream

Oh I still feel you here with me

You're more than just a memory

Oh you will never be forgotten

And the world just keeps on going

It has no way of knowing

That you're gone

You will never be forgotten

A million days could pass us by

But what is time but just a dream

Oh I still feel you here with me

You're more than just a memory

Oh you will never by forgotten.

Over a month.......ooops!

2009-07-19T15:26:00.009+08:00

Well, here we are again, over a month this time. Sorry. I have a good excuse, I have been working. After doing some relief work at our friends real estate, they offered me a job. Which has kept me quite busy.

Over the past month I have been doing little bits and pieces in my beautiful boy James' room. This has been very hard and sometimes I have just walked in, looked around and just cried. Today we have managed to get all James' Lego and display it near our front door. We have put up some glass shelves and some white shelves to display it all. What a feat. I can't believe how much James has collected over time. It has turned out sooooo good that I wanted to share how it looks. We also got his light saber that he was given for Christmas in 2007 from his Uncles and Aunties from the Thomas side of the family and put it up with his photo we had at the funeral. It looks fantastic. Slowly things are getting sorted and tidied and we are finding a place for things, so that we can remember our boy. Once we have finished sorting out James' room we are going to paint it and Brent is going to move in.

We have had Brent's 16th Birthday, Brent managed to get his learners permit on his birthday which he was very proud off. It has been strange that where ever he wants to go, he has to drive. He is getting pretty good, but has a bit of a heavy excellerator foot. He is getting the hang that he has to slow down a bit or he won't get his licence because he is going too fast. lol. We all went out for tea for his birthday to Chatters. It was lovely, Grandma, Grandfather, Lidija, Liam, Shane and myself all went. We all had a great dinner and then came home for cheese cake, yum! Brent got lots of things for his car so he was very happy.

The boys have also been on holidays over the past two weeks. Brent worked the first week and then was lucky enough to go on a Canteen camp (a camp for kids with cancer, siblings, offspring and beveared kids as well). Brent has been to these type of camps before and so he had an absolute ball. The only problem was there was one kid that snored in his dorm so Brent didn't get much sleep. lol. He has been making up for it today when he got out of bed at 11am.

Liam has been a bit lost over the last two weeks, with me working and Shane working and Brent being away, Liam has been palmed off and handed around to different people to keep him amused and entertained. He has been very good with this and has managed to get through the holidays unscathed, I hope.

Shane is doing pretty good, although the weather has not been on his side, so he has been doing some jobs that are inside which has been helpful. He keeps getting new jobs to keep him busy which is also good. People are telling their friends and they are calling and asking for quotes and then getting Shane to do the work, which is all good for him and us.

The only bit a sad news to tell is that Brent's girlfriend is no longer on the scene. She felt that she needed a change and then she ended it with Brent. They have stayed friends, so that is something. Brent has (I think) gotten over the hurt and the not understanding, but that is what being a teenager is all about, learning, growing, getting hurt, then picking yourself up of the ground and continuing on with life. Sometimes it is a little harder to pick yourself up.

Well see you later, hope all is well, keep smiling and remembering our beautiful boy.

Four Months Ago

2009-06-10T19:31:00.003+08:00

Today.............. well it has been four months since we lost our beautiful boy James. Not a day, hour, minute goes by that I don't think of him. My wonderful mum reminded me on Monday of the amazing full moon on the night he passed away, and now ever month it is such a strong reminder of James watching over us all. The moon last night was just amazing, peeping out from behind the clouds. I tried to get a photo but it just didn't look any good. Did not capture what I was seeing. I would like to thank all the people that everyday think of us and remember our James. He was an amazing boy who touched so many lives. I am still hearing of wonderful stories of how he touched people and the way that they remember him.

Ok, onto how we are going, Shane has got some big jobs coming up next month in Seabird and we would like to thank Andrew and Deb for recommending Shane. We will be forever greatful of this work that is keeping a roof over our heads. Shane is enjoying being his own boss, but seems to be busy all the time. I think sometimes he would like another pair of hands so he isn't so tired when he comes home of an evening.

Brent has just finished his first set of Year 11 exams. He feels that he went ok, Brent got some of his results today, which I was amazed at and he was very happy with them. Chemistry was 82% which is an 'A' in the old way. Physics he got half of the test back, 80% which was also very good. He is very happy so far, but is a bit hesitant with his Specialist Maths subject, apparently it is quite hard. As long as he passes that is all we ask of him.

Liam is going good at the moment. Doing lots of sport at school with Interschool carnivals and lunch time football matches. It is all very exciting.

Now to me, I have got some relief work at the primary school and today was at our local Realestate agent, who is a friend. It has all been well timed, when I am feeling my lowest someone rings me and askes if I can help them. It is amazing how it has worked lately. People just seem to ring me and get me out of the house when I need it most. They think I am doing them a favour but in reality it is helping me more than ever. I have struggled to think of what I am going to do now, with all this free time on my hands, but doing relief work at the moment is helping to know that I can still be of value to people. My days start out hard, but end with me feeling exhausted but full filled and feeling better about what I have accomplished in the day.

Thank you to everyone that still follows us. For thinking of James and keeping him alive in our hearts and around us every day.

James Christopher Thomas

A beautiful boy

Missed everyday

Loved everyday

Growing in our hearts

Stronger as time goes by.

We miss you.

xoxo

Long Time No Blog

2009-05-16T16:12:00.006+08:00

Sorry about the time frame and I know no one will hold it against me. It has been quite hard over the last few weeks. It just seems to be getting harder, not easier the more that time passes.

We have all been very busy with different things.

Liam was lucky enough to go on two camps over the school holidays. It was very good for him, he got a lot out of it. This was the first holidays without his best friend and brother, I am sure it would have been very hard for him. The first camp was organised from the Hospital for breaved sibblings which helped Liam a lot. Gave him different was to cope and remember his brother. The second camp was with Camp Quality were he was kept busy 24 hours a day for 5 days straight. He came home exhausted! He made new friends and saw old friends, had louds of fun and laughter.

Brent has been busy with his studies for Year 11 TEE. He has got 6 subjects and they are now starting to get ready for their first semester exams, which will be in the beginning of June. Brent has also spent a lot of his spare time with georgous Lidija. We have all grown very fond of Lidija and her family. She brings in a fresh breath of air and lots of laughter. We all need this and Lidija has been a wonderful addition to our family. No, I am not marring them off just yet, but it has been nice to still have three kids at the dinner table a couple nights a week! Brent and Shane have also been fixing up Brent's VL Commodore. They have pulled the motor apart and got something done to it, (not quite sure what) then have managed to get it all back together again and running! Brent is very excited about getting his learners permit in June and can't wait to be able to 'drive everywhere', as he says. Yeah right we will see about that!

Shane has been busy with work. He has had a few varied jobs from floor tiling, to brick paving, patios and building play equipment. We are still getting established and trying to get money in, which is getting there, all be it a bit slow for Shane but we are still managing quite well. I keep telling Shane it takes about 18 months to start a business and getting it up and running well. We just need to be patient.

I have been fumbling around in the dark for the past couple of weeks. Not sure what to do or where to go. I have helped Shane with a few jobs when he has needed that extra set of hands, have got 3 hours work per week at the local school, doing administration work. Last week I was called in to do two days of relief work as everyone was sick, but I have now also caught the bug, so that was not too good. On Thursday I took the plunge and got a tattoo to remember my wonderful boy James. It was emotional, but joyful, at the same time. Not as painful as I had expected. Shane is also thinking of having one done, just not sure what design. Everyone has been very supportive and appreciative of my tattoo which has also helped, but also made me a little sad. It is just so close to my heart and everyone elses. Time passes and it just doesn't seem fair that he is not here enjoying life as he should. I miss him so much, but feel he still had so much more to give and do, it just does not seem fair at all.

Well, to all that still visit our blog page, thank you. I will try and be more regular in future, but please don't hold me to that.

Happy Birthday James!

2009-04-18T07:50:00.005+08:00

Wow, 13 years ago today a beautiful boy was born into our special family. We had challenges from the start. James was a fighter from the first day he was born. James spent 6 days in PMH for Respitory Distress on pure oxygen and on high doses of antibiotics. He came back to Kalamunda Hospital on Day 6 and we went home after 5 days there. We enjoyed James and his playful antics for many years. He really entertained us, made us laugh, his cheeky grin was always around. He always challenged everything and everyone. Gave everything a go no matter how hard it looked. James would also look at the bright side of life and tackle things head on. If you were with James he would always ensure that you were ok. James did not like it when anyone fell behind, he would always help them up and on there way. James loved his tee ball. Even when he started to get his first signs of cancer he would still try to go onto the field and do his best, even if he was seeing two balls coming towards him at great speed. It frustrated him when he had to give up tee ball and sit on the side lines and watch. But not a sad face did we see, he encouraged his teams mates and congratulated them when they made a home run. He always asked how his brother had gone in his games and always wanted to watch him play.

James was truely an inspiration to us all, no matter what he did, he did with great pride and always with a smile on his face.

We hope you have a fantastic 13th Birthday James. Hit a home run!

Happy Birthday Beautiful Boy!

We all love you and miss you.

Mum, Dad, Brent and Liam.

Away on Holiday

2009-04-15T15:31:00.007+08:00

We have been very lucky and been away on holiday in Busselton. It has been very relaxing and great to all be together. We have been staying in our camper trailer and have so far survived without too much trouble. It has been wonderful to jump of the busy life bus and just sit back and relax and watch the world go by. It is lovely and relaxing to just sit on the beach and watch the birds fly over head, read a book or play cards and see who can win the most times. We have been fishing and actually caught some fish. We had Brent's girlfriend Lidija with us for the first four nights as well as Shane's brother Chris and his wife Taew and her mum, Mama for two nights. We had lots of fun all together in the trailer! Chris, Taew, Mama and Lidija all went home on Monday safely. We will go home tomorrow and settle back into the every day life. It has been a lovely time to reconnect and become closer as a family.

The boys also went and did archery, which was alot of fun. Liam as did the bungy run afterwards which was soooo funny. He was exhausted when he had finished. We have had lots of fun times and laughter, which is just what we needed.

Well here Goes!

2009-03-24T12:35:00.017+09:00

Wow, it just seems like yesterday...... sometimes I wish it was, but no we are here now and slowly getting through the days. We have good ones and we have bad ones but are managing to get up in the morning, (thanks to our two beautiful boys) they are helping to make life go on.

Shane has been getting enough work to keep a roof over our heads, which is wonderful. Even from people outside our friends and family, so we should be ok in the long run. Times are tough but we are managing to get by. Shane still has avenues to explore with his home maintenance business, we have only just hit a small part of the market with patios, he has the real estate industry that he hasnt even touched yet.

Brent and Liam seem to be going ok at the moment. Brent is very busy with homework and his wonderful girlfriend Lidija. They went to their Year 11 ball at the end of February and they looked just beautiful together. They are keeping us on our toes with the relationship, trying to test were the boundaries are and what they can do before we say no. Which is quite often.

Liam is going good at school and enjoying Year 6. (Oh my goodness were has the time gone!) Liam had is finals of Friday Night Baseball last Saturday and they won so now he will play on April 4 in the Grand Final at Baseball Park. We are all very excited.

We also had my brother Chris' wedding on Friday Night and it was beautiful, bit emotional on many levels but they looked fantastic together. Chris touched me deeply with his vows and how heartfelt they were, Congratulations Chris and Alana. Now we will be waiting for the tiny patter of little feet. (Liam will be happy he will not be the youngest anymore!)

I am taking each day slowly and not expecting too much from myself. Have been offered 3 hours work at the Primary School each week and that does seem to be helping. Life is very different at the moment and am just trying to work out were I fit in again. It is very strange trying to come back into society after 2 years wrapped in cotton wool. My brain does not seem to hold the information in anymore, so am having to write everything down and then it gets jumbled up.

The family all went away for the long weekend in March in our Camper trailer, which was a lot of fun. (I was very surprised how well I did!) It went so good we decided to book in again for Easter weekend. So I am hoping it doesn't rain too much. The boys are very excited.

Well, there, not so bad after all, lol. Need a new box of tissues now.

Missing our Angel James Everyday.

Love you sweet boy of ours.

Run free

Laugh and giggle again!

Free from pain.

Missing you everyday.

Mum

Now Resting Peacefully James - 18 April 1996 to 10 Feb 2009

2009-02-13T11:36:00.004+09:00

This is one of the hardest things I will ever have to do.

Our beautiful boy James Christopher, peacefully passed away on Tuesday morning at 12:35am.

It was very beautiful and peacefull and truly a blessing to have witnessed. On Monday night I was unable to sleep (nothing new here). James was resting well and sleeping. He had had an awake and alert day on Monday with times when he was gesturing to us different signals with his right hand. James' breathing was quite rattly and noisey. The Silver Chain nurse came out in the morning and set James up for the next 24 hours with his medication. By the late afternoon his chest and breathing was rather bad so I call Silver Chain and they came out again and gave James a new pump and more medication to help with his breathing. This then settled him down extremely well and he sleep until he passed away.

We as a family have been truely blessed by having James as ours. We feel extremely privleged to have been chosen by James to be his parents. He has taught us many things in life. How to be humble, create laughter, enjoy ourselves, ensure others are ok and many many more. Everyday he brought us wonderful blessings and joy. We will never forget you James, thank you for being with us for as long as you could. We just wish it could have been longer.

We would like to thank everyone that has helped our family on this rocky journey over the last 2 years and 3 weeks. We thank you for sticking by us and ensuring that we travelled well fed and supported us emotionally. We know that we could not have gotten this far without wonderful friends and family.

Thank you to the wonderful staff at PMH, you have truely been amazing and very helpful with advise, support and encouragement. Your jobs are most definately hard to do and you do them everyday with a smile and joy in your hearts, Thank you.

To the beautiful families that we have met from this horrible disease. We hope that your journey is safe and we will have you always in our hearts and minds. Travel safe and never give up hope.

Once again, thank you to everyone for being there for our family.

Please keep in touch.

Don't leave us now.

May our Beautiful Angel James

guide us and support us

Bringing us together as one.

James' Update

2009-02-07T15:04:00.003+09:00

Well, this is the hard part. Over the last two weeks, James has slowly gone down hill. Firstly it started with his left side becoming weak. Then it progressed to the stage he could not walk any more. He was still eating and talking and making us laugh. I have managed to build up my muscles in my arms quite a bit now. It is like doing weight training every day. At this time his memory was shocking so he would forget he could not walk and try to get up, which resulted in a few falls. We then got to the stage were he could not get up, so this made it a little bit easier for us, that we did not have to worry every minute of the day and night if he was going to hurt himself. James has now got to the stage were he is incontinent. This was a bit hard at first for him but now he just accepts it, (I hope). We then went to not wanting to eat, but still drinking so we started supplimenting his drinks with Sustagen. This was working really good until Tuesday when he decided he didn't want that anymore either. So on Tuesday when the Silver Chain arrived we all decided it was time to put James on a pump to administer his medication for seizures and anti-nausea. By Wednesday he was having a lot of pain with regards to his hips and we then decided to place James on Morphine as well. This has resulted in James becoming more settled and restfull. He is no longer in any pain and seems to be more at peace. The Silver Chain nurses come everyday to ensure the pump is working and replace the medication for the next 24 hours. James is no longer talking. He does nod a little bit but is sleeping and resting most of the time now. We have been very lucky with the Silver Chain nurses, they have been wonderful in help and advise on what to do. Everyone has been very helpful and I have really appreciated the many visitors and phone calls I have received. They are keeping my spirits high. At the moment we are all taking it one day at a time and hoping that James stays as peaceful as possible with no pain. Keeps us in your thoughts and thank you for all your prayers and support, it really is appreciated.

"May the Angels above guide us with gentle hands."

Thomas Family Update!

2009-02-07T13:23:00.011+09:00

Well, I can't believe it, time is certainly flying by. It has been awhile since I have updated the blog, so, sorry for the followers. We have had a pretty eventfull time over the last couple of weeks. I will start back in January and work forward.

James was laying in his bedroom, Liam and I came in to keep him company and we got out his camera and where looking at the photos he had taken back in April 2008 when he went to Broome. He got some beautiful photos of the sun setting, just amazing. We also had a bit of a fool around and took photos of us with him in bed. Lol.

Matthew, (James' best mate) came over two weeks ago and spent some time with James and Liam. I had a wonderful coffee and chat with Matthew's mum Sharon, it was lovely. James enjoyed see Matthew again before Matthew started High School. Hope all is going well, Matthew!

Also that weekend our beautiful friends the Lee Family and Garcia Family came over for dinner and games. It was a great night, with lots of laughs and the boys had fun drinking!

School started on Monday and the boys looked great on their first day back. Brent is now in the upper school white shirt and he looks very smart. Liam is cheeky as ever and very happy to be back with his mates at school. Liam has been asking to ride to school for the longest time and I have finally said yes. He went off to school on Tuesday very happy and excited to finally be riding to school.

Keeping us Laughing!! :)

2009-01-21T10:35:00.006+09:00

Well as you can see James is still entertaining us! James has his down days but he always keeps us smiling. This was last Sunday morning and mum and dad were over for morning tea. We were just sitting chatting away when James decided to put his 'vomit' bowl on his head. Well we were all in stitches laughing. I had to take a photo. We have had yet another quite week. My Dad had his 79th Birthday last Wednesday and we went out to Chatters Restuarant to celebrate. Yes I forgot the camera or there would have been photos. James did so well that night but was tired for the next few days. We had a rough Saturday with James being out of it for most of the afternoon and night. Was a bit worried and did not get much sleep on Saturday night. As you can see Sunday was a lot better and James has continued along that way this week. James has been very unsteady on his feet of late so can't be left alone, as he forgets that he is unsteady so he has had a few falls over the past week. We now make sure someone is with him every minute of the day.

It was very sad on Friday as my Brother Phil and his boys Matthew and Jason left Perth for their respective homes, (Phil in Mt Isa, Matthew in Melbourne and Jason in Melbourne for a visit with his mum). It was fantastic having them stay over Christmas and New Year and they will be missed greatly.

On Monday night we had a lovely visitor come and have tea with us and James, Thank you Denise Bray, we had a great time. Although there was no chocolate spilt this time.

All is quiet on the Home Front

2009-01-10T16:35:00.005+09:00

Well what a quiet start to 2009. We have had a very laid back start to this year. We have not been doing too much of anything over the past week.

We have been very lucky to have Phil down from Mt Isa, so have been doing lots of talking and catching up with him, Matthew, Jason and Lis. It has been wonderful to welcome Lis into our family, Congratulations to you both on your engagement. It was sad that Lis had to go home earlier than Phil, as she had to return to work. We will miss her, but am sure we will keep in touch. Even though we have been doing nothing it has been wonderful to have Phil and the boys here over the holidays.

James is travelling ok, we have had to increase his medication as the seizures returned. He also has weakness on his left side due to the pressure in his head. The Doctors tried James on steriods last week to see if it would help, but it did not do much at all this time. James' short term memory is really non-existent now. We have a good laugh about it with him, he is still very happy go lucky which is really helpful for us. We are living in the moment with James and enjoying the time we have.

We were very lucky to get some photos taken with Pixi in Midland. We picked them up just before Christmas and we have just got them on CD today. They are fantastic and we are very happy with them. Thank you Pixi Midland.

Stars Wars Lego.......Finished!

2009-01-02T13:53:00.003+09:00

Well, James (and dad) have finished the Star Wars Lego Death Star II. James bought it when we were in America. It filled up one suitcase, and stumped the customs person at the airport to what was in the suitcase. Once we explained it was Lego, she laughed and said that Lego always gets her. Well it is Finished. James completed most of it, with dad giving a helping hand at the end. We are all very proud of how well James did. Now that it is together I still can't believe how big it really is. It stands 65cm high and 50 wide. We finally found a spot in James room to place it so that it doesn't get knocked or broken. (We hope!)

Our Christmas Day 2008

2008-12-28T14:04:00.007+09:00

Well what a fantastic day. Liam woke not too early at 5:50am, had a quick look under the tree then came into bed with Shane and me and had a cuddle before we got James and Brent up to unwrap presents. Brent and Liam played santa all day passing out presents to everyone. They started with their own presents and made piles of presents for everyone in the family. They all seem to have sooo much, I think Santa spoilt them all! They had a wonderful time unwrapping and looking at the wonderful things they got. Lots of photos and video later, we sat down to a lovely breakfast. We then had a play of Guitar Hero World Tour, lots of drumming, guitar playing and singing was had by all. Lots of Fun! We then all got dressed and went over to my parents house to have Christmas lunch, yummy. We had Phil, Jason, Matthew and Phil's girlfriend Liz and Liz's parents, Heidi and Peter. Chris and Alana also came, so it made all the family together. It was the best part of the day. We had a wonderful lunch, lots of laughs and plenty of love for all. We came home for a nanna nap and then Sharon and Stu, Carlan and Reagan came over for leftover tea. Sharon bought most of it from her brunch. It was a lovely relaxing night. I think the kids have all recovered from the day. They all had a great time and received lots of lovely presents. It is amazing how quickly the day goes by, before you know it we will be looking at Christmas Eve 2009. Lets hope next year is better and brings us all a Miracle for 2009.

It's Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T13:25:00.006+09:00

Wow, I can't believe it, Christmas is tomorrow. We are all very excited and the kids can't wait, Liam isn't sure how he is going to get to sleep tonight, he is beside himself. We are really enjoying this time we have together and making the most of every moment. We got home from our trip away to Busselton, which was a great, it was very relaxing, ready for the big day. James is doing good, getting a bit tired, but other than that he is doing well. Have taken lots of photos of our time away, end of school and just everyday fun times. Phil has arrived from Mt Isa with Jason and Matthew and Liz (Phil's new girlfriend). It is really good to be spending this time with them and getting to know Liz. We are all spending Christmas Day together at Mum's house with Chris and Alana as well. Lots of photos and food and drink will be the order of the day, oh and presents for Liam. LOL.

We were all very proud of Liam, he got the Achievement Award at the end of year assembly at school this year. He also had a fantastic day for his birthday. Lots of presents, fun at his pool party, with lollies and good times. All his friends have all grown up so much. It is amazing what 12 months can do to a kid.

Yummy ice cream from Simmos, walking on the jetty and fun times on the beach at Busselton.

James' Year 7 Graduation

2008-12-14T20:55:00.011+09:00

Congratulations to our beautiful boy James on finishing primary school. We had a lovely night on Thursday with James graduating from Year 7. James had a wonderful time at the dance and managed to stay nearly to the end. He was exhausted the next day and stayed home to have a good rest. It was lovely to see all his friends dress up and looking very cute. They all did really well and the kids that won awards were all very deserving. Congratulations to James' friends Taryn who got the Principals award and to Matthew for getting his award as well. Well done to you both. They have really stayed by James' side this year and helped him get back to school and have some much needed fun.

Last weekend James and Liam went Go-karting with Josh Hogan and had the best time. It was very funny when Liam and James went crashing into the tyres. Liam got the hang of driving quite quickly and gave Josh a run for his money. By the end Liam was sliding around the corners and passing James easily. They all had a great time, Thanks Josh, it was fantastic.

We had a great time this weekend staying at Hillarys Boat Harbour, thanks to Camp Quality. We had a wonderful dinner on Friday night at Jetty's Restaurant, very yummy and filling. We went to the Great Escape on Saturday afternoon and Liam had the best time ever on the slides and climbing the Jungle Mountain. It was very funny to watch. We all had lots of fun and laughs playing putt putt to finish off a wonderful day. On Sunday Brent and Shane got up very early to head home to go Buggy racing, (yes they are crazy). While Liam, James and I stayed back and Grandma and Grandfather come down and had a wonderful morning tea with us and then took us home. Thanks Grandma for driving to get us.

Nova

2008-12-03T11:11:00.005+09:00

Shane and James where lucky enough to get to see Nathan and Nat, oh and Cambo at Nova this morning. James was allowed to go into the studio and sit and watch then record the show. If you were listening this morning Nathan said that James was with the big boss and was wondering if they were coming back next year. James said yes. So it was nice for Nathan to say hi on the radio. James had an absolutely wonderful time, Thanks Nova and the wonderful two Sams for organising a wonderful morning for James.

It's December all ready!

2008-12-02T19:05:00.012+09:00

Yeh, it is December and the boys have put up the Christmas Tree, oh what fun it is. We have had a busy week again and will have till Christmas comes. We got to have morning tea with Lorna, Renae, Sam, Rowan and Little Liam at the Dome Cafe. It was very yummy and lots of fun.

James also had an interview at Swan View High School getting ready for next year. I can't believe we will have two boys at high school next year.

We have all got over the shock of Shane loosing his job and this week has been a lot better in that department. Shane has been lucky enough to pick up some handyman jobs from relations and friends, so has decided this might be something to look into. He feels a lot freer and happier since getting these jobs and I am sure they will just keep on coming. As I said, 'One door closes, and another opens.' There is always a reason for things like this happening.

On the weekend James had a few of his friends over for a sleep over. We went out to tea with them and the wonderful Mrs Bray to Chatters in Midland, it was very yummy. We all came home for chocolate fountain dessert. What a mess!

Yes Brent is licking the table, chocolate was every where.

Christmas is so much fun, with lots of laughter and happiness.

James' Year 7 Camp, Basketball and Christmas Party

2008-11-23T19:21:00.004+09:00

James with his mate Matthew on the boat to Rottnest

Shane and James went away on Monday to Rottnest for James' Year 7 camp. They had a fantastic time together and with James' friends from school. James had a gopher while he was at Rottnest which made it easier for him to get around. They stayed at Kingston Barracks in the self contained units. Shane looked after 7 boys and had a lot of fun with the rats in the roof. The boys got back on Friday and were very glad to be able to sleep in their own beds.

On Saturday 15 November we were lucky enough to get family tickets to see the Wildcats play, (Thanks Cheryl). James and the boys had a great time cheering the players on and watching all the hype of the game. It was a very exciting game with the Wildcats winning.

On Sunday James, Liam and myself went to the Camp Quality, Canteen, Starlight Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Combined Christmas pary. What a blast, there were a lot of people there and heaps of kids. They all had a great time, doing lots of fun things. Liam had a ball running around playing on all the different activities. Of course the jolly big man came and gave all the kids wonderful presents. Liam was very happy with his present.

Busy Couple of Weeks

2008-11-13T09:42:00.006+09:00

Over the past couple of weeks, we have been quite busy. Brent had a Radio Rally club event at Cannington Greyhounds over Friday night and Saturday. As Shane and Liam have tee ball on Saturday morning I got to be the Pit Crew. Lots of fun was had by Brent and I. Shane came at lunch time to take over. James, Liam and I then went to the movies to see Wall.E, (Thanks Red Kite!). We had a great time. When we finished I had a text message from the boys saying that the car had broken down. I believe it was all Shane's fault (lol) and it wouldn't have happened if I was still there (yeh right, it probably would have been worse!).

Brent's Car

Last weekend my brother Chris came over in his wonderful car and took James for a spin. He has been promising to do this ever since he got the car. James was very excited and enjoyed it a lot. Thanks Uncle Chris!

James also got a special package in the mail from Aunty Deb and Uncle Andrew, all the way from Canada. Thanks guys! I will let the photos do the talking.

Chris and Alana's Engagement

2008-11-13T09:33:00.002+09:00

We had a lovely time at my brother Chris' engagement. Only James and myself went but as you can see from the photos James had a great time with the chocolate fountain.

Still New at This!!

2008-10-24T12:56:00.006+08:00

Well as you can see from my last entry I am still new at this. I will see if I can get the photos to come out the right way up.

Yah! it worked.

Liam Starts Little League Baseball

2008-10-24T10:35:00.003+08:00

Our beautiful boy Liam has started playing baseball on a Friday night in the local Swan District Little League competition. He is having a lot of fun and meeting new kids. He is playing with a different team than he normally does with Tee Ball. Tee Ball has also started again and Shane is coaching this year as the boys have gone into Under 13's. So Liam is doing a lot of sport at the moment, he trains three nights a week, Tuesday and Thursday with Baseball and Wednesday with Tee Ball. Then on Friday night he plays the Baseball game against other teams and then on Saturday he goes and plays tee ball with Shane. He has become very busy all of a sudden. It is taking some time getting use too, being so active again. It has been nice to be able to go down on a Friday night and watch Liam play. It has been a good family outing, very relaxing.

More Photos from Trip

2008-10-16T10:23:00.004+08:00

Waiting at the Airport

Legoland

Legoland Dragon

Make a Wish Trip

2008-10-15T10:29:00.003+08:00

Well, we had the best time anyone could wish for. When we first arrived in Los Angeles we were greeted with a stretch limo, which the boys were most impressed with. We drove a short way to our hotel in Anaheim and got settled in. We ventured out to see Downtown Disneyland, whish is full of shops, restuarants, cafes and lots of things to see. We had tea and then returned to the hotel for some much needed sleep. The next day we went to Disneyland and explored the day away. It is amazing what they have been able to achieve with everything from rides to how they have set everything up. James and Liam were able to attend Jedi Training Academy and were lucky enough to be picked out of the crowd of about 100 kids. They got to battle Darth Maul and defeat the dark side. We have plenty of photos and videos of this, they really had a good time. We stayed for the Street Parade and then once again fell into bed. We had a quite day on Wednesday to give James a bit of a rest, but still managed to see more of Downtown Disney and had a wonderful tea at the Rainforest Cafe. On Thursday we ventured down to Legoland. James was most impressed by Legoland. It was truly amazing. Everything was made out of Lego, rides included. We had the best day exploring and finding lots of interesting displays of James' favourite toy. James and Liam also had a chance to get creative in the Make a racing car room. They even had races against each other and other children. James got a chance to purchase some lego at great prices and before we knew it we were back at the hotel. Friday was spent at California Adventure which is opposite Disneyland and was alot of fun. On Saturday we had an early pass into Disneyland and arrived there at 7am, yes it is right. We got a whole hour with about 1000 other lucky people to enjoy before the gates opened to everyone else. It was great the lines where short and we had the best time. We also had breakfast there that morning with all the Disney characters. It was truely amazing. We got plenty of photos and had lots of fun. We manage to stay all day, had a rest for two hours and went back for the fire works at night, in total we spent 17 hours at Disneyland, we are so proud of ourselves. On Sunday we did some shopping and just generally have fun. Monday saw us out shopping for shoes and packing our bags to come home. We got a wonderful limo ride again to the airport, which made us all feel like superstars. We had the best time ever with lots of photos and fun for James to remember for ever.

First Timer

2008-10-13T12:58:00.002+08:00

Well, the Thomas Family have finally gone high tech. This is our first post, we thought it would be a good way to keep in touch with people and let everyone know how we are going. At the moment we are learning how this program works and will put up photos later.

We have all recovered from our trip to America. James had a wonderful time on his 'Make a Wish' trip. We visited Legoland and Disneyland and had the best time ever. We have taken heaps of photos and video so James will remember it forever. The boys (Brent and Liam) also had a wonderful time and really enjoyed the time away as a family.

As this is our first blog, will post it to see how it goes. Will be back again soon with photos of our trip.