THE GOOD ENOUGH Parent

with EMILY THOMPSON

THE KING’S BIRTHDAY

“Woohoo! Long Weekend!” I announce on Friday afternoon. “Does anyone know whose birthday Australia is celebrating?”

“The Queen,” says routine-loving Miss 14.

“The King,” corrects Hubby.

“Mine, obviously,” declares Miss-almost-Nine, who doesn’t appear to be growing out of her megalomaniac tendencies.

I carefully explain to her that although her birthday is very exciting, this weekend involves our annual tradition of homemade crowns, high tea, games and fancy dress. This placates her, because although she’d love it to be about her, she is easily cheered up with glitter glue and gold plates.

“How fancy are we talking?” Miss Eight asks.

“And,” she continues, leaning across Hubby to get closer to me for her very important question, “What colour ties does Dad own?”

Instead of yelling about not being in charge of everyone else’s wardrobes, I take a deep breath and calmly remind her she could ask someone else that.

“Dad,” she begins, beaming because she figured out the right person all on her own. “Can you ask Mum what colour ties you have?”

After a quick trip to the craft supply store for jewelled stickers, we sit down to construct crowns. Miss Eight produces a list of non-negotiable design parameters: they have to fit around our heads; be tucked into our ears; be colourful, but not garish; have symmetrical spikes; and the stickers must be placed in ascending order of size.She then sweetly hands Hubby a crown that she’d premade for him.

I’m torn between feelings of jealousy, because most of his work was done for him, and pity, because she’s clearly deemed him incompetent and not to be trusted with his own crown.

Immediately, Miss Eight starts shouting at him for his sub-par glitter glue technique, and so the three of us settle into our usual “support the other hostages and just do what she says so she’ll release us” family dynamic. Baking is next. Hubby decides to ramp up our usual banana bread with walnuts, dark chocolate and coffee, while I take the far easier option of a melt and mix Mars bar slice with extra mini Mars bars for bribery purposes.

The dressing-up bit is forgotten amid an afternoon of board/card games. We love doing this as a family, but like most families, it only ever ends one of two ways: Either in fits of laughter, with warm feelings of love and a mutual wonder of why we don’t do this more often; Or with bitter accusations of cheating, Monopoly boards thrown and a mutual astonishment of why we do we put ourselves through this so often.

We tempt fate by starting with Uno, which turns out to be OK. I realise that our little Miss almost-Nine actually hasn’t thrown a full tantrum about losing for a while… Hey, maybe we’re past that!

“Up next is Celebrity Head,” I say to three blank stares, watching as one of which (Hubby’s) turns quickly to bewilderment, then panic as he realises I’m introducing a new game to an afternoon that’s going well.

In the first two rounds, we play as different celebrities, which is fun, but we then move on to the wildcard category of “people we know.” I end up as Miss Eight’s lovely teacher, Miss Eight is me and both Miss 14 and Hubby are Grandma. I have never laughed so much in my life and I can’t recommend this game enough for other families. We stay in character for our tea party and although the days of little girls dressing up like princesses and watching princess cartoons are behind us, having fun with a tween and a teen is just as special.

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

BROUGHT TO YOU BY...

Come and See it For Yourself

Located in one of Orange’s most popular areas, this huge house is all about flexible space. There are four bedrooms with an option for a fifth bedroom or a third living area depending on how you utilise one of the versatile rooms at the front of the home. This home has character about it from its unique façade to the sunken lounge with vaulted ceiling and timber features, formal dining area and updated kitchen. The main bedroom has an ensuite and all the bedrooms are a great size, with three opening onto the balcony to enjoy the northern sun. The house has been freshened up recently and there is a powder room, gas log fire plus reverse cycle split systems and plantation shutters. Outside is a delight with beautiful leafy trees and gardens and a yard that is easy care. The timber deck is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors and you would never guess that there is an inground swimming pool underneath that is currently used as a water tank but could be converted back to a pool.

Price Guide: $899,000-$949,000

39 SALE STREET, ORANGE | 6363 1000 |

PFISHER.COM.AU

653 24

SEYMOUR STREET

RARE FIND! Multiple Living Zones

Fresh off the back of an extensive renovation is this fabulous family home that offers the perfect solution for those looking for a home which is versatile and rich in individuality. It is a rare find and really lends itself to multi-generational living or those looking for a big bang on their investment.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

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SMITH STREET, MOLONG

Immaculate Inside and Out

You would be hard pressed to find a home more immaculate than this one. Set on a 930 sqm block in a quiet street, this attractive brick home with a fantastic three bay shed is a real winner. All you have to do is move in and enjoy.

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

Rural Life Within Your Reach

Properties like this 100 acre parcel of land don’t often come along. This property with its usable arable land, Molong Creek frontage, classic farmhouse with verandah plus plenty of additional infrastructure offers an enticing combination of lifestyle and small scale farming. Create that rural lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

314

313

“VERMONT”

A New Lifestyle Awaits

Contact: Jacob Evans 0428 130 789

Price: $1,650,000

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Contact: Jacob Evans 0428 130 789

Price: $599,000

On 2.5 acres in a blue-ribbon location this sweet cottage is dressed in an array of colour, with rustic wooden clad walls and polished timber floorboards, and has a sense of individuality and charm. There is also a 2nd building which is currently set up as the highly regarded restaurant “Fiorini’s”.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

Expressions of Interest

39 SALE STREET, ORANGE | 6363 1000 | PFISHER.COM.AU

More Than Meets the Eye

In a lovely street, around the corner from Bletchington School, this home has a few nice surprises, like two living areas, that you wouldn’t normally expect in a property at this price point. Outside is a double garage, with an adjoining workshop/storage/studio plus there’s another versatile shed, water tank and low maintenance yard.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

A Beautiful Lifestyle Awaits

Situated in the blue-ribbon location of Borenore, this sensational seven-acre property is just 10 minutes from Orange. The home sits pretty as a picture, elevated with rolling views back towards Mt Canobolas and the acreage borders two travelling stock reserves. It’s rare such opportunities arrive within this price-point.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Spick and Span

Here is a wonderful opportunity to own a very neat and tidy house with two living areas for under $500,000. You’ll love that is freshly painted with new carpet and a brand new kitchen. It’s bound to get a lot of interest at this price – inspections are easily arranged.

Open Homes: Saturday 25 March 9.30-10.00

Classic Country

The classic country wrap-around verandah on this lovely home is the perfect place to unwind after a hard day’s work and the house boasts a huge open plan kitchen, dining and living area at its heart. This property on 1,228 sqm is sure to appeal to a wide range of buyers.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

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SALE STREET, ORANGE | 6363 1000 | PFISHER.COM.AU

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Big, Flat Block

Ready

to Go

Nestled away in the quiet country town of Cargo, this is 2,000 m² block is flat and ready to build on. The property has town water available and power at the front gate. Leave your car at home as the property is within easy walking distance to the local amenities.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

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A Stunning Slice of Paradise

This property is, in a word, stunning. You will feel like you’re in your own slice of paradise in this gorgeous home surrounded by garden, bushland and farmlands. The views are spectacular and you will never tire of the peace and serenity that comes hand in hand with a property like this.

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

Price: $215,000

Sun Trap

In a superb location, nestled at the end of the cul-de-sac, this generous home is perfect for the large family. You’ll be blown away by the multiple living zones and enjoy the wonderful inside/ outside living partitioned perfectly by the north-facing sunroom extending to the al fresco area and private backyard beyond.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Contact: Michael Wright 0421 360 948

Price: $769,000

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Versatile in Nature

Contact: Jacob Evans 0428 130 789

This is a great home with a flexible floorplan giving space, functionality and potential in one neat package. The layout allows for versatility to adapt to the nature of your lifestyle, ensuring there is ample space for everyone whether a growing family, a couple or an individual. Endless possibilities are on offer.

Contact: Chris Mason 0438 629 417

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

View by appointment

Price Guide: $1,200,000-$1,300,000

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Price: $529,000

Grand Design, Grand Proportions

This impressive home is set on 2621m2 of beautifully private manicured grounds with outstanding district views. For those luxurious lifestyle lovers searching for a relaxing retreat, this beautifully maintained home, in the premier Wentworth Estate, might just be it. If you’ve been looking for a really special home the wait is over.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Sanctuary Found

As the weather cools, homes like this that offer a north-eastern suntrap in the main living areas are in high demand. So much roomier then most two-bedders and with a private, low maintenance yard this lovely home is perfect for the first home buyer, investor or downsizer.

Scan QR Code to see all Open House Times

Price:

Effortlessly Liveable

This is a lovely unit that offers one of the best floor plans available within the complex. The open-plan living area is incredibly spacious and private, the kitchen is large, there are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a handy study nook and a private yard with concreted area with awning.

Nice

Great Shed

This home, with its tastefully updated kitchen and bathroom, is perfect for a first home buyer or investor. The big jobs inside have been done and the block is a very manageable 493 sqm in size. The backyard has a great shed with a covered patio area offering a shady spot to sit in summer.

Renovated – under $650,000!

Renovated and ready to live in, the work has all been done with a lovely new kitchen and tastefully renovated bathrooms. Located in the Calare area within a few minutes’ walk to nearby schools - this home is the perfect property for a young family to move straight in and enjoy.

wide block in the heart of Spring Hill. This home is so pretty and has so much to offer someone wanting the peace and tranquillity of village living. You can truly make this your own hideaway from the hustle and bustle of life.

Are you looking for a project that is ripe for renovation? This might be the ideal property for you. Located in the south-east Orange area, this house has 3 bedrooms, 2 living areas, 2 toilets, tandem garage and undercover area plus a series of sheds. If you’re serious about renovating, inspect this property.

All Wrapped Up with A Ribbon on It

If you have a love for homes full of character, this historic homestead is fully restored with many original features and a sense of grandeur and space. On a half-acre block and renovated to an impeccably high standard, it’s not often a home of this calibre comes onto the market.

Designed with livability in mind, the pleasing neutral palette and nine-foot ceilings emphasise the light and airy feel of this lovely home.

Offering plenty of space, this generous home includes a formal lounge/dining room adjoining the light-filled foyer, which could also be used as a media room.

But what makes this property special is the huge family room — perfect for entertaining guests or the extended family, which leads out onto the covered alfresco area.

The kitchen features quality stainless steel appliances throughout and the generous benchtop also provides the perfect space for use as a breakfast bar.

The main bedroom has a stylish ensuite and roomy walk-in closet, while the remaining four bedrooms are serviced by a huge family bathroom with full-sized tub and are separate to the living areas. There is plenty of scope for any of these to be as either bedrooms or a playroom, gym or study.

The neatly landscaped backyard has established, lowmaintenance plantings with enough space left over for a family game of cricket or for the kids to run around with the dog.

And it is all within an easy drive of Bunnings, North Orange Shopping Centre, Orange Botanic Gardens, the Adventure Playground and Waratah sporting grounds!

Five-bedroom houses are difficult to find — don’t let this one pass you by!

Contact Scott Munro at LJ Hooker Orange on 0428 650 675.

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CONTACT Chris Tyack 0438 258

BEAUTIFUL, AND BRAND SPANKING NEW!

Expertly built by one of Orange’s life long builders is this impressive four bedroom home. You will be impressed as soon as you walk in the front door with the old world look featuring pressed metal, picture rails and beautiful floor tiles.

• 4 bedrooms, 3 with built ins and the master has en-suite and walk in.

• Open plan kitchen/dining/family which opens onto the covered alfresco.

• Beautiful kitchen with stone tops, soft close furniture, 900mm cooker and walk in pantry.

• 3 way bathroom with lovely tiling a feature and bath for the kids.

• Ducted heating throughout, attached garage with indoor access, fully fenced.

Unique Spacious Cottage In Westlea

This is a regretful sale for the owners of this lovely three bedroom cottage, they have put so much into the property and have plans drawn up for an extension and then had to move to another city. For sale is one of the original Westlea properties on a huge 904sqm (approx.) block of land, close to the town centre, Duntryleague and in the popular Orange High school zone.

• 3 Large bedrooms, large lounge/family room, dining room, raised deck at rear of house

• Ducted gas heating throughout, 6.25KW (16 Panels) solar panels, A/C split system

• New colorbond gutters and fascias, major electrical and plumbing upgrade

• Landscaped gardens, dual access to the block, great for caravan or trailers

• Pizza oven, fruit trees including fig, cider apple and Mulberry

CONTACT Chris Tyack 0438 258 590 OPEN

way, orange

9 bella vista close, orange

3

$669,000

CONTACT Chris Tyack 0438 258 590

12.30pm

THREE BEDROOM HOME IN QUIET

WEST ORANGE LOCATION

This generous home on a large block, is located in a quiet cul-de-sac in the popular Orange High school zone, close to town and Duntryleague golf club. The property has been in the same family for decades and is now ready for a new lease of life with new owners who can move in and enjoy the property as is, or renovate and relish living in this fantastic location close to everything.

• Three bedrooms all with built in robes, master with en-suite

• Separate Lounge room and combined north facing kitchen and dining

• Central three way bathroom with bath and shower

• Attached double garage and recently installed 5kw solar panels

• Fully landscaped yard on a 866sqm (approx) block

NEAT AS A PIN AND CLOSE TO EVERYTHING!

You will be impressed with the lovely home as I was when I first saw it. The owners are retiring and want to downsize so here is your chance to purchase this great property that the owners have put so much into.

• Four bedrooms, 3 with built in robes, master with ensuite

• Three living areas, all warm, inviting and very comfortable

• Spacious kitchen with soft close furniture, breakfast bar, dishwasher

• Recent installation of new terracotta roof and luxaflex shutters throughout

• Orange High school zone, 916sqm block (approx), walk to town and Cook Park

• Ducted gas heating through floor, wood heater and big A/C split system

SPOTLESS PRESENTATION IN SUPER QUIET LOCATION!

This impeccably presented property located in a quiet private location has everything you would want in a home. The home has 3 bedrooms, master with walk in robe and ensuite, others with built in robes, all have external remote controlled block out shutters. There is a large open plan kitchen/ dining/family room which opens onto outdoor alfresco, a well designed kitchen with dishwasher, corner pantry, breakfast bar and more, and ducted heating and cooling throughout. The views from the covered outdoor alfresco are stunning, and you do not have many neighbours to contend with. The owners are relocating and have owned the property since new, you will be impressed by its unique location, presentation and imaculate condition, only an inspection will convince you. Would be a great property to call home or would also be a great investment.

SOUGHT AFTER EAST ORANGE!

Cornerblockwith2xroadaccesses

Cornerblockwith2xroadaccesses

Landareaapprox.1,406Ha,buildingareaapprox.1,620m² 2gantrycranes

Landareaapprox.1,406Ha,buildingareaapprox.1,620m² 2gantrycranes edward street, orange

ZonedGeneralIndustrial OfferedwithVacantPossession

ZonedGeneralIndustrial OfferedwithVacantPossession ducted gas heating and cooling

• Huge covered outdoor alfresco area with great views towards Suma Park Dam

• Massive workshop/storage area under house, around 135sqm, with concrete floor and toilet

• Other features include, solar panels, alarm, room for caravan and big 1,089sqm block

CONTACT Chris Tyack 0438 258 590

This lovely property has the classic late Federation/Inter-war facade and features 3 bedrooms all with pressed metal ceilings along with the hallway and formal lounge room, it has just had a full re-paint internally with light modern colours and looks nice and fresh. You will love the eat in kitchen which is in good condition, and the extension at the rear of the house features the second living area and the federation style bathroom with a great claw foot bath and also a shower. Edward Street has seen lots of new owners in recent years moving in and restoring these lovely homes, this property would also be a great Air BnB.

• Beautiful classic old world facade

• Plenty of scope for renovation or extension

Formoreinformationorforaninspection,contactGaryBlowes 0418635248|gary@blowesre.com.au

Formoreinformationorforaninspection,contactGaryBlowes 0418635248|gary@blowesre.com.au

CONTACT Chris Tyack 0438 258 590

• Walking distance to restaurants and CBD

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