Life's Like That

This Little Word Of Mine

2012-01-15T23:18:00.001-08:00

I have been working on establishing goals for the year 2012. The goals I am working on affect three aspects of my life. Mind, body and soul.

So far I have established the specific goals relating to my body. I am proud to say that I have been successful thus far. I have been training for the 10 km runs in my awesome new shoes. Consuming much more water and less coffee. And incorporating more veggies and fruit into my day.

I look forward to writing about the goals that I have set relating to my mind and soul. But for now, I want to write about “This Little Word of Mine”

If applied: It is this word that is going to help me succeed at living out my goals. The word is… Discipline.

Discipline can be defined as the ability to motivate oneself in spite of a negative emotional state. Qualities associated with discipline include willpower, hard work, and persistence.

This is gonna be a great year!

Me Today

2012-01-13T15:44:00.001-08:00

i was … just thinking about how I need to be better about journaling about all the cute things my kids say and do.

i am … exactly between 30 and 40.

i think … I am incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by amazing people in my real life.

i wonder … how much more I would do if I got out of bed earlier.

i wish … I spent more time praying.

i save … spaghetti jars and toilet paper tubes in case I ever get the ambition turn them into something cool.

i always … crave a little ‘alone’ time.

i can't imagine … life without my awesome husband and super cute kids.

i believe … everybody's story is worth recording.

i promise … I really got a D in High School sewing class.

i love … home.

I want… to spend more time creating beautiful things.

i scrap …but only a little. But have a growing desire to get involved in ‘Project Life’ with Becky Higgins.

A Runners “Tool Of Trade”

2012-01-10T22:03:00.001-08:00

I do not boast of having a number of shoes like many women can. Mostly I can be seen wearing a pair of running shoes. Not because they make such a fantastic fashion statement, but I simply like to be confortable.

My ritual is to replace these at least once a year. Not because I want to go and blow a bunch of money over at my favorite shoe store, The Running Room, but because I have to. In well under a year I turn a very good looking running shoe into one that looks like it had been hauled out of the nearest dumpster. I manage to stretch my new purchase to as close to a year as possible simply because I am cheap. Also known as frugal.

So off to The Running Room I went. To give my new goal of training to run a couple 10K runs a fresh start in a new pair of running shoes.

After at least six years of purchasing the exact same shoe, the Asics 2160, I wanted to break the cycle and try something new. A brand new pair of Nike’s.

A couple of runs, indoors on a treadmill, I came to a realization that these certainly were not the shoes for me! My feet were in so much pain. So, back in the box these Nike’s went, and back to The Running Room to test out their trade-in policy.

After a quick check-over by the saleslady, off we went to look for another new pair of shoes. I tried a few different brands of shoes. Found a few that seemed to fit my finicky feet well. After a final decision, I spent even more than usual on a new pair of Asics. My usual shoe but in top model. Unfortunately these even cost more than the usual.

Well, I haven’t gotten to try these out yet. Tomorrow is the day for these babies to go for there first test drive. I am really hoping that I come home with happy feet. I don’t want to have to take yet another trip to The Running Room. I really wish I could just throw on just any pair of runners. Would be a pocketbook saver as well as a time saver.

First 2012 Resolution-Health

2012-01-03T21:27:00.001-08:00

One stage of my personal transformation for the year 2012 involves many aspects of health. From healthy eating, more water, and an increase in physical fitness. With discipline, I will face and challenge myself in all my goals.

This is fairly broad I know. But I do have some pretty specific and attainable goals for the year.

The goal that appears the easiest is drinking more water. Should be easy, but won’t be for me. Drinking lots of coffee and almost no water is an everyday occurrence for me, so this goal will be challenging.

My new rule is that for every cup of coffee I want to drink. I must drink two glasses of water. Whew, thinking that I may need to move my office nearer to the bathroom:)

Another goal involves healthy eating. I am most certainly not the most unhealthy eater, but really could handle eating more fruits and veggies and a few less sweet treats. So, I’m going to have my daily checklist include some extra portions of these.

I now start the day with an apple first thing in the morning. My rule created for myself will be that in order to have my favorite lunch, toast topped with some heavenly jam, I will have had to eat my veggies. Wow. Now I know firsthand how my son feels with the rules I make for him.

Physical fitness is probably one of the highest priorities for me. I have been enjoying playing on some women's hockey and soccer teams this past year, but have been limited in my success in both by my fitness level. I want to be able to run up and down the field with speed and finesse and without hacking and wheezing after a play.

In order to tackle this goal, I have entered the 10km run in the race “Run For Water” in May. I figure that since I have to pay to register for the race, I’m going to want to get my money’s worth by actually competing in it. I will also be kept motivated by my cousin who is also running the race.

Though 2012 is very young, I have faced each day with discipline, but without perfection. I am human, after all.

The Tree of 2012

2012-01-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

The time honored tradition of every New Year is to start the year by making a goal or list of goals in an attempt to improve oneself. The time honored tradition of every New Year’s goal or resolution is to forget about it.

It was best said by Eric Zorn this way. “Making resolutions is a cleansing ritual of self-assessment and repentance that demands personal honesty and, ultimately, reinforces humility. Breaking them is part of the cycle.”

Why are New Years goals so difficult to keep? My opinion is simply this: discipline. Specifically, a lack of discipline. For certain the ‘goal-breaker’.

I am visualizing my goal setting for 2012 as the image of a tree. The trunk of the tree is “Discipline”. There are three broad areas of my personal goals, the branches which are each individually labeled Heart, Body and Mind. Each of these branches has a few specific twigs labeled with my goals for the year.

So why am I approaching this time-honored tradition of setting New Years goals with such seriousness? Is it because I am unhappy? Or maybe, dissatisfied with my life?

Most certainly not. I have been blessed tremendously and have no desire to changed it. Just improve it. I have to admit that I have become very complacent in the past years. I have not challenged myself and feel that I am simply going-with-the-flow. The year 2011 was a wonderful year. I am looking forward to the year 2012 being even better.

Kraft Dinner

2011-12-05T21:19:00.001-08:00

My Kraft dinner story was meant to be a lesson to my family. Instead it became a lesson for me. I love sharing my story because I have found that many people are able to relate to it one way or another.

The story goes like this: A few months ago, after much quiet fuming, I decided to make a point to my family. The point was to teach a lesson on appreciation and gratitude. Appreciation and gratitude towards me, for my cooking, specifically.

I mean, seriously, cooking is time consuming but necessary. You have to plan ahead. It takes creativity to try new things. It takes much longer to provide a dinner than the few minutes it takes to chow it down.

My plan was to cook Kraft dinner every night until someone in my family dared to ask the question. “Why are we eating Kraft dinner yet again?” My plan was for this question to lead into a little lesson on how a little ‘thank-you’ would be greatly appreciated by me.

One night of Kraft dinner, led to the next. Five night later… and still not a word! No thanks, no grunts and no questioning. Just the steady sound of chewing and swallowing.

I couldn’t believe it! So I quit. Not quit cooking in general, just quit cooking Kraft dinner. I didn’t even say anything to my family about why we had Kraft dinner five nights in a row, and no-one asked. I felt I had lost a battle.

I shared my frustration with someone close to me. She said, “Have you thought to communicate your frustration?”

“Of course not! I should not have to ask for a ‘thank-you’ once in awhile!” was my obvious and stubborn response. And then, I could only agree. Yes, the big lesson I learned was "communicate.” A month or two went by before I took a moment to communicate to my family that a little ‘thank-you’ once in awhile would be well-received.

Chalk it up to another one of those life lessons.

She Warms My Heart

2011-12-02T23:31:00.001-08:00

I’m not typically a bragger. But in this instance, I really feel that I have earned a right to brag just a bit. Her name is Peyton and she is my little girl.

She has been such an amazing bundle of joy. So very happy, sweet and easy going. She warms my heart with every little smile that is an almost permanent fixture on her cute little face.

One ‘Hairy’ Situation

2011-11-29T20:47:00.001-08:00

I was given the gift of treating myself to a lovely hour of bliss at Undines. In anticipation, I thought that I had better shave my ‘winter’ layer as I figured that by receiving a pedicure it would be highly likely that I my legs would be revealed.

So, off to the Spa I went. Light in my step at the thought of enjoying time with quiet and thinking time. I sat down in the comfy recliner chair. Was handed a soft blanket and a cup of tea. A nice soaking tub was placed in front of my be my masseuse. My pant legs were rolled up. My feet were ready for a nice relaxing soak and some pampering.

At this moment, some would die of embarrassment. Me… I could only laugh. One leg shaved. One leg not. Chalk it up for another good story:)

Another Year Gone By

2011-11-26T22:26:00.001-08:00

If you would have asked me fifteen years ago about what I thought about being thirty-six, I would have said, “old”. Now, here I am just turning thirty-six. Ask me now of what I think of twenty-one years old, I would say, “young”.

It’s all really a matter of perspective. I love life. I don’t feel old or young. I feel just right. As a matter of fact, if I could choose a ‘forever age’ I think thirty-six just might be it.

A week prior, Jeremy asked as he does every year what I would like for my birthday. He got the usual answer, ‘nothing.’ This is not what he likes to hear. But the reality is that when I need or want something, I think about it, then buy it. So, other than some really expensive things, I really don’t know what to suggest he buy me.

I thought about it some more and realized it really wasn’t fair that I didn’t give him the opportunity to shop for something for my birthday, so I gave him one thing I could use. Then I thought some more and added another thing. Thought some more, and added another thing. It wasn’t long before he really did have a list he can choose from.

My birthday arrived. Flowers were delivered. Not on my list, but were appreciated anyways. The funny thing is, nothing on my list arrived on my birthday. But that was completely OK. I was pleasantly surprised with a gift certificate to Undines Spa and Retreat.

A retreat it certainly was. As I sat in the comfy recliner chair, wrapped in a nice soft blanket, and my feet being treated to some pampering, I felt very dreamy, sleepy and wonderful.

I look forward to what might come this upcoming year. Hoping it is as good as the last!

Remembering The Firsts

2011-11-14T21:54:00.001-08:00

Jabbering out of my view was Peyton. The tone of her jabbering came to a change, so off I was in search of what she might be into. I came to find her attempting and, after a few tries, succeeding in climbing her first step of the staircase.

As I came to see what her excitement was. Followed by a look on her face of ‘oh oh, now what?’ I quickly went to get my camera to snap a picture of this ‘first’, but not before I warned her to be careful and not fall, of course.

As I snapped pictures and celebrated her ‘first’, my thoughts shifted to the death of Dylan Reichelt. An 18 year old boy who had many firsts, but will have no more. I think of how Aunty Kathy and Bill will mourn for the loss of Dylan and how difficult it is for them to know that he will have no more ‘firsts’ to celebrate.

I think of my ‘last’ memory of Dylan. Only a few short weeks ago when he let Cayden drag him from one activity to another when he and his family came out for dinner. After a few hours of Dylans patience with tours led by Cayden of chickens, goats, trampoline, his room, Lego and XBox. Cayden loved having big cousins like Jesse and Dylan.

I finally was able to tell Dylan it was Ok for him to sit down with us and enjoy conversation and desert with the adults. I still remember the look of appreciation by the invite to the ‘big peoples table’, although he never complained.

Dylan will be missed terribly by his family. His ‘firsts’ and his ‘lasts’ will always be remembered. It is a reminder to me to enjoy every minute of my children's lives and record every memory I can.

“I Cried Today Mom”

2011-11-10T22:39:00.001-08:00

Today was the day that Cayden came to understand why “We Remember” on November 11. The first thing he announced when he got home was, “I cried today, mom. It was so sad. The movie was so sad. People died and I cried!”

I wasn’t quite certain what he was talking about. Then he shared with me about his school’s Remembrance Day Assembly.

During the school Remembrance Day assembly he and his classmates sang the song “Hearts Around The World”. They also watched a short film showing some clips of the wounded, soldiers and war. It was the film that pulled at Cayden’s heart strings. He came to a real understanding of the war, the soldiers and remembering the fallen.

Hearts Around The World

Hearts around the world.
Hearts beating as one
Hearts around the world
Will show the way

Pray for the peace of a distant land
Share in the hope that we’ll understand,
With our heart and soul we will reach the goal
of hearts around the world.

Peace good will t’ward men
Hearts around the world
Will sing as one
Everyone giving the world to see

Everyone living in harmony
Singing one by one
We have just begun
With hearts around the world

Hearts beating as one
Hearts around the world
Will show the way for lasting peace on earth
Of peace on earth

Peyton’s Sweet Shoppe Birthday

2011-11-07T22:05:00.001-08:00

Our sweet little girl has turned 1! What a fantastic first year of life it has been. We threw a Sweet Shoppe birthday party in her honor. She may never remember the event, but I will never forget it.

I threw myself into creativity as I planned for this party in my mind for at least a month. The time finally came for me to put my vision into an actual event to be enjoyed by family and friends.

I even thought to myself a few times over, “Why am I doing this? She won’t even remember”. For which I would remind myself that I would remember and would have pictures to share with her one day.

I made Pom Pom’s, inspired by Martha Stewart, pin-wheels, candy cones, cake pops, marshmallow pops, giant cupcake, mini cupcakes, sugar cookies, chocolate chip cookies, many appetizers and the icing on the cake… The Cake.

The one I wanted to make, but feared it also. I debated over and over whether I would tackle the cake, as I have only ever made one challenging cake for my mom’s past birthday.

I tried to enlist a friend who was experienced to help me but something came up so I was all on my own. I finally gathered up the courage. Got the ingredients together for a chocolate cake with a ganache filling and Butter Cream icing. Decorated with homemade marshmallow fondant. It was quite a process, but a truly rewarding feeling when I finally got to put it in the middle of the table, high above all the other treats.

One of the things I will remember was how encouraging and complimentary Cayden was through it all. He’d appear from playing, see something new that was hanging or created and say, “Good job mom. That looks really good.” Over and over through the day as I was decorating and creating all the yummy.

I was telling Cayden about how nervous I was in putting the finishing touch, the Fondant, on the cake. He says, “You can do it. I believe in you.” Wow! What a sweet heart. The praise and encouragement were music to my ears.

Peyton had a great time. She loved all the attention of her guests as well as her presents and cake. The kids all had a great time as they hovered the treats table and moved on to the sweets table with many happy returns. Yes, I sent them all home with glee, hopped up on sugar:)

Thanks to all our dear friends and family who helped us celebrate our little Blessing, Peyton.

Happy 1st Birthday to our little peanut!

Too bad the camera died right about… now:(

My Cake Discovery

2011-11-03T23:44:00.001-07:00

I have never been a cake connoisseur. If I need a cake, I purchase an ice-cream cake or a Bakery cake. On demand. Super easy. A little pricey maybe and not very original.

I am currently being a little over-ambitious in my planning of Peyton’s 1st birthday. On top of all the other fun and new things I am working on to make this a great birthday bash, I have added making a cake from scratch to the list. Not only making the cake from scratch, but also making the marshmallow fondant myself. I have been eying up all those beautiful fondant cakes that seem to be the rage and want to challenge myself by giving it a whirl myself.

In making this cake, I have discovered that there is a reason that purchasing pre-made cakes cost a lot. They take a lot of time and a lot of ingredients. I am currently on stage 3 of 4 in making this cake and am enjoying it so far. My guess is that if the cake looks and tastes fabulous I will likely attempt this time-consuming creative process again. Only a couple more days and we will find out:)

This is not the cake I am attempting. But maybe one day?

IParenting

2011-10-31T22:53:00.001-07:00

Recent statistics show us that sixty-five percent of children raised in the church, will leave the church by the time they leave home. Hearing this brought on a slight panic. Seriously? Our children are sixty-five percent likely to turn their backs on God? This really hit me hard as one of the most important things for me is that our children will grow up to be incredible and faithful children of God.

Jeremy and I became students of Dr. Dave Currie this past weekend at the I-Parent Conference hosted by our church. Our hope was to learn some strategies along the way to build a strong family with a strong faith.

The sessions were amazing. Filled with laughter and useful tools to help us become great parents with great children who have a great faith.

If I took one thing out of the weekend, it was this one key thing. Slow down. That simple. Slow down. Hmmm. This is a curse word to me. Lots of thought going into this one.

Time is craved by our children and giving time results in the following things:

1) Prevent lost connections. Take the time to talk and listen to our children

2) Build greater security. Take the time to raise confident kids who know their worth before God, because they are reminded by us consistently.

3) Catch our core values. Take the time to model and teach the values we hold close to our hearts. (These values still need to be developed by Jeremy and I officially)

4) Maintaining high-speed connections. Take the time to allow our kids a variety of opportunities. Don’t rob them because of the time it takes. Enjoy the season of ‘busyness’ and ‘taxi-driving’, it will come to an end.

This weekend could not have come sooner for us. If I were to be completely honest, slowing down and taking time out was not nearly as high on my priority list as it should be. This is going to change. That is a promise I have made to my children.

Our Little Photo Shoot

2011-10-29T21:31:00.001-07:00

My family is filled with very capable photographers, but when it really came down to making an appointment with one of them to do a photo shoot, it simply never happened. So, I finally made an appointment with Maria Boone this summer to get some fantastic photos of my favorite 2 kids, Peyton and Cayden. She even took a few of me, a rare occasion.

I was determined to have some unique photos. I wanted them to be like art on the walls of our home. So, I gathered a variety of items from my home to take along to the park. A chair, swing, books, fire truck and a change of clothes later, then off we went.

What was supposed to take hour quickly turned into two because of how much fun we were having taking a wide-assortment of poses. The kids were so easy, and our photographer was a pleasure to work with. Cayden was especially happy, as Maria lined his pockets with quarters for his efforts to provide smiles on demand.

Caydens “Big Brother”

2011-10-27T20:49:00.000-07:00

One of Cayden’s favorite people is Ivan. He pesters Ivan, annoys Ivan and looks up to Ivan as his own big brother. This is exactly how he introduces Ivan. “My big brother.”

Some of Cayden’s favorite things he likes to do with Ivan is jump on the trampoline and play soccer in the backyard. I love watching the two of them together. I especially love how Ivan is patient and playful with Cayden.

Yesterday was Ivan’s 18th Birthday and Cayden wanted so badly to contribute to the gift pile. So he spent the afternoon scrounging for some great ‘gifts’. An un-used pencil and a toque came to the top of the list. He then carefully wrapped both items up with cardstock and a ton of tape. Then practiced some writing skills and wrote him a heartfelt note. Sooo Sweet!

Waiting for Ivan to come home to open his gifts was exhausting. Cayden finally fell asleep waiting

Cake Pop Addiction

2011-10-26T22:09:00.001-07:00

Ivan celebrated his 18th Birthday today! What a great young man he has become. Pink and Aqua Blue? Really? For a boy? Ah, he didn’t care. He just cares about how things taste, and they certainly tasted fabulous!

I have become seriously addicted to the new fad, “The Cake Pop”. Not just to eating them at Starbucks, at a whopping $1.90 each one, but also to creating them. And not just to eating them and creating them, but to also displaying them in a nice kind-of-way.

Sure, a simple cake is much easier to make, but not nearly as satisfying as a delicious Cake Pop. The key to making Cake Pops, is having the time. The difficulty level is low, but the time level can be quite high, especially for the super-creative person.

Ingredients Needed

-Popsicle Sticks, melting wafers, box cake, 1/2 tub of frosting and some coloring gel, Styrofoam

- Bake the cake as directed on the box, then cool

-Scoop the cake with your hands into a mixing bowl

-Mix 1/2 tub of frosting in with hands or mixer, will be squishy and dough like

-Roll into small balls and place on a bake sheet

-Put in freezer for approx. 1/2 hour to make the balls easier to work with

-Melt a few melting wafers, mix with color of choice

-Dip popsicle stick into chocolate, then push into Cake Pop, put back onto back sheet

-When all are done, put back into freezer for 15 mins to 1/2 hour

-Meanwhile, melt more wafers, add coloring (tip, put a 1/2 teaspoon of Crisco in with wafers, helps with smoothness)

-Dip Cake Pop into melted chocolate, tap stick on edge of bowl or twist to remove excess chocolate

-Push cake pop stick into Styrofoam to harden

Give it a try. The first few will be trying, but it gets easier once a few “trial and errors” get out of the way. It does take some extra time, but the satisfaction of being creative feels so great!

Party In The Park Fun

2011-08-08T23:23:00.001-07:00

What a gorgeous Friday night it was! We haven't seen a whole lot of this yet in our fabulous town of Chilliwack, but we certainly will look forward to a few more over the next few weeks as summer vacation is on the wrap-up side of things.

One of the things we enjoy to do a few Friday nights of every summer is to Party In The Park at Central Park in downtown Chilliwack. It is a fun and free event for the whole family to enjoy.

The very first thing we do when we arrive is to get to the face-painting tent. This is always a highlight for Cayden. And secretly for me too as I enjoy watching Cayden sport his new face with excitement every time. This time, Peyton even got to join in the fun.

Awe, our sweet little Butterfly.

I'm still really not sure what this is supposed to be:)

Super-cute Face-Painted duo.

After face-painting came cookie decorating. Yum. Wish they would let the parents join in.

Then came a round of mini-golf.

Followed by a list of super fun things including the bouncycastle,fish slapping , free slurpee's, music and a visit to the street market.

It was at the street market that I was enticed to purchase a naughty but yummy piece of freshly made Bannock, topped with some butter and cinnamon sugar. Delicious. Will stop for more Bannock for sure next time again. Unless of course the Mini-donuts get me first.

A wonderful Friday night it was. We are looking forward to a few more of these for sure!

Michelle

A Bee Sting For Mom

2011-08-03T22:28:00.001-07:00

Fifty-five years ago, my one and only mom was born. One would have thought that the first thing I would have done today would have been to call and wish her a Happy Birthday. Oops.

With a disappointed sigh, she informed me of who had called her this morning. My name wasn't on the list.

It became clearly obvious
that she appreciates her morning Birthday Wishes. I thought distract her by asking what was her favorite type of Birthday Cake. I had hoped that she would say 'Icecream or Carrot or cheesecake.' You know, something that could easily be purchased. No such luck. I got what I deserved.

She announced 'Bee Sting' with pleasure.
As soon as she left the office, on the phone I was. Calling every bakery in town. The answer was the same every time. 'No Bee Sting cake here.'

I had one choice left and that was to make one myself. Thinking about the time I would need, I was negative two hours. I had to solve the lack of time problem. So I did what any other problem solver would have thought to do. I delegated a portion to my sister.

We tag teamed at Safeway where I picked up her portion of the caking making as well as the ingredients I needed for my portion. Sailed home and in a frantic frenzy and completed the cake.

My family and I celebrated Mom's birthday dinner at The Capitol. Our entire families favorite restaurant. Ever so delicious as usual.

I presented Mom with her favorite chocolate bar, an iTunes card to purchase some new e-books, a hand-created card and a freshly made Bee Sting cake.

I restored favor in my mothers eyes. My lack of a morning Birthday wishes was quickly forgiven. To avoid any future issues, I am already setting my calendar to remind me at 7:30 am next August third to call my dear mother and wish her a 'Happy Birthday'.

Happy 55th Birthday Mom! Wishing you an amazing year.

Michelle

Blogging On The Go

2011-07-31T11:41:00.001-07:00

Hmmm... With my heavy reliance on my iPhone as my connection to the Internet highway, I think I have found even another use for it. Blogging. We shall see how much extra effort it will take.

A good story could take a long time to write on such a tiny keyboard. Escpecially with fingers as large as mine.

Another annoyance is the feature 'auto-correct'. Many a time have I sent some rather interesting emails and text messages. One would have thought I'd have learned to proof-read by know. But who has time to do that? I'll take my chances on the recipient of my messages figuring out the correct words.

Life has been so great this past year. One of the things I regret most is not writing about all the going-ons. The time of silence is nearing the end as I really have missed put pen to paper.

So, as I sit here listening to the crackle of the fire, I'm enjoying another benefit of owning my own personal computer, the iPhone. Creative writing and camping rank high in the joys of life.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Trans-Canada Hwy,Hope,Canada

She’s Actually Cute!

2011-03-17T21:07:00.001-07:00

These three words, “She’s actually cute!” came from Cayden’s mouth one day. It took me quite by surprise because I had never thought otherwise.

He said it as if it was the most surprising thing to him. Like he had never seen a baby that was cute before. As if babies could be anything but cute. (OK. Some are not so cute. But we would never say so out loud, right?)

Of course I always thought Peyton adorable. She is my little girl after all. (Not saying she gets her looks from me though). But I had to take an even better look to see if I could see what had sparked Cayden’s exhuberant statement I could only confirm that, yes, Peyton is “actually cute”.

Our Singing Salesman

2011-03-09T20:16:00.001-08:00

To our surprise, Peyton and I enjoyed our very own personal serenade. We were at a local furniture store, testing out some new seating, when the salesman came over. Even before I could tell him what we were in search for, he burst out in song.

SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW

Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high,
There's a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby.
Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue,
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true.
Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far
Behind me.
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me.
Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly.
Birds fly over the rainbow.
Why then, oh why can't I?
If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow
Why, oh why can't I?

Peyton’s eyes opened wide. My jaw dropped in amazement. We stood there in awe, listening to his wonderful voice. If I wasn’t in a rush to pick-up Cayden at school, I would have been tempted to sit there all afternoon, listening to him sing.

I look forward to my next visit to the store to enjoy another serenade.

Schnookums Hair Bows

2011-03-02T22:29:00.001-08:00

Peyton was born with an amazing amount beautiful hair. Trust me, I paid for it with some serious heartburn. It was all worth it. Her dad, Jeremy has had it pointed out on a number of occasions that his baby girl has more hair than he does. Oh, to point out the obvious. He can only laugh and feel a lot of pride for having such a beautiful daughter.

From the first week of her life Peyton has been wearing her Schnookums Bows. Anything to help tame her lovely locks. I absolutely love these little hair barrettes, as they are so far the only ones that manage to stay in her hair.

Peyton has been wearing this one barrette ever since and now has come the time to add some more of these little beauties to coordinate with her super cute outfits. So, I am having an e-party. The last day to order and get this great deal is tomorrow, March 3.

Peyton Found Her Thumb!

2011-03-02T00:06:00.001-08:00

I am a “thumb sucker” snob. I know it is a strong statement to make but I am a firm believer that a soother is a better alternative to a thumb sucker. I like the concept that a soother can be taken away when a child reaches a certain age, but the thumb is a different story.

You can imagine what I felt when I looked down at Peyton, only to find a thumb in her mouth! First came horror. Then came a sigh. Followed by, “Oh my goodness! How precious. Just look at her sucking her thumb.” Yep. Those were my the words that came out of my mouth.

After all the ‘oohing and awwing’, I took Peyton’s thumb out of her mouth and quickly replaced it with her soother. I’m sure I will have to do this many more times, as it does seem she prefers her thumb. But, I’m still the “thumb sucker” snob and will persist.

Cayden: AKA Captain Underpants

2011-02-25T22:32:00.001-08:00

It was one of the most humorous Tuesday mornings I can remember. I had dropped Cayden off with my sister while I attended a meeting. She took him to our church’s Women’s Ministry morning Bible study, where Cayden played with the other children. I came to pick Cayden up and my sister asked me if I knew that Cayden was wearing three pairs of underwear. Pardon? Three pairs of underwear?

I asked Cayden why he was wearing three pairs of underwear. With a serious look on his face he answered, “I’m Captain Underpants.” Now, I have heard about a Captain Underpants. I was aware that there is a series of novels about such an underwear wearing, red caped character that is for fourth and fifth grade readers.

I had no idea wear Cayden would have learned about this subject so I quizzed him to find out what he knew. Cayden stated with confidence that Captain Underpants was a Super Hero. He wore a red cape and he slings underwear as his Super hero power. I’m pretty certain that the slinging of underwear was drummed up by Caydens own imagination, but it certainly was very funny.

Almost One Year Ago

2011-02-25T08:01:00.001-08:00

The past year has been a roller coaster ride for our family. Almost one year ago I wrote about how our adoption story had to come to an abrupt halt. I must admit, I was never clear on the reasoning behind this. The finality of the adoption of those two precious children was not by our choice but because of the rules of the Ministry for Children and Families. It was not because we had done anything wrong, but due to the fact that we were crazily surprised and blessed with a pregnancy of our own.

One November 4, 2010, our precious daughter, Peyton joined our family. She was born weighing in at an even 7 lbs, 19 inches long and with an amazingly full head of hair . I never thought it possible that I could have such a tiny bundle of pure sweetness. Her entrance to the world was one I will never forget. (This is a story of it’s own)

It was difficult to have to take the abrupt end to the adoption that we had spent over 1 1/2 years to prepare for. If I would have had my way, I would be a mother of four children right now. But I would never trade the pain I felt then, for the joy I feel now. We feel truly blessed to have our precious little girl join our family.

I like to think that our adoption story is just on hold. Where it will take us in the future is unknown.

Nine Years Ago

2011-02-23T00:54:00.001-08:00

We celebrate nine years of marriage today. Seems like a lifetime ago that I said “I Do”. The years have been great for Jeremy and I. We have had our ups and downs. But the ups far outweigh the downs.

We celebrated our anniversary this year a few days early. It was nothing spectacular. Simply a dinner and a movie. Something Jeremy and I both enjoy. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Frankie’s, followed by “The Unkown” at the new theatre in town. We even threw in popcorn as a special treat. It has been nine years you know. Nine years of marriage equals a little extra splurge. Even better, we added butter! By the way, the movie was fantastic in case your wondering.

This anniversary reminded me on the one we celebrated three years ago. It was incredibly memorable. I’m not kidding.

We decided to celebrate our sixth anniversary in much the same way as we did this year. The plan was to first go to a movie, then go to dinner. Nothing went as planned. There is a great story here.

We arrived at the theatre a little late. We got our tickets together, then I thought it would be nice for Jeremy to catch the beginning of the movie while I waited in line for the pop and popcorn. (Yes, we splurged on pop and popcorn all those years ago as well). So, I sent Jeremy on ahead to wait in the theatre for me just inside.

I finally got through the line and headed to the theatre will our pop and popcorn in hand. I got to the theatre where “The Breach” was playing. I walked in. Expected to see Jeremy standing there, waiting for his Bride of six years. Hmmm. He wasn’t there. So, I stepped back out, thinking that maybe he had gone to the washroom. No Jeremy in the hall. I went back into the theatre and quickly scanned the crowd. Expecting him to wave at me, had he gone and sat down. Nope. No Jeremy waving at me.

I stepped back out in the hall. Pop and popcorn still in hand. The movie had been playing at least ten minutes by now. I was getting concerned. Maybe he was sick in the washroom. I went to the mens-room. Stepped into the entrance and quietly yelled his name. (I think it was more loud than quiet) No response. I asked the ticket-taker if he had seen a tall guy in a white sweatshirt. No, was his reply.

Then I started to wonder if he had gone into the wrong theatre. So, pop and popcorn in hand, off I go into each and every theatre. A quick scan of the crowd. Expecting a wave. Nothing. OK. Now at least half an hour had passed by now. So, all I could do was wonder and start to fume. What the heck? Where on earth could Jeremy be?

I sat down at the little table with a Famous Players magazine. I felt like an idiot. Sitting there all by myself at the lonely table in the hall of the theatre, with our pop and popcorn. I called my sister and told her all about it. What else was I to do to pass the next hour. She said the exact thing that was on my mind. “Why has he not come looking for you?” she said in shock. I know, why hasn’t he, was my response.

So, the hour passes. The time has come for the movie that I was supposed to be enjoying, to come to an end. The crowd comes out into the hall. And there comes Jeremy in the middle of it.

He sees me. Comes over. And questions me about why I didn’t come and find him in the theatre. He had to sit all by himself. And without his pop and popcorn at that.

Pardon? I couldn’t believe that he was upset with me! I was the the one sitting at the lonely table in the hall! I thought it was humorous until this point. I’m at fault?

We walk out to the car. Start driving in silence. We pass Lou’s Bar and Grill. Jeremy says to me, “Aren’t we going to dinner?” I lose it. I shouted, “Are you kidding me? Do you really think that I want to sit across the table from you now? After you watch the movie while I sit in the hall? Then get mad at me for not finding you? And drive home in silence we did.

Three years later I still laugh about it. If it is ever brought up, it’s by him. And we laugh some more about it. It’s these memories that I treasure. These moments that I chalk up to two people going through life together, sometimes not the same road, but always with the same destination.

How About We Become Friends?

2010-06-09T20:51:00.001-07:00

My sweet child, Cayden. The social butterfly of our family. He really comes up with some interesting things.

The other day, Cayden and I were headed out to visit some friends in our old neighborhood. This was our first trip past our old home since we said goodbye a few weeks ago. As we were getting near, Cayden made the suggestion that we should stop,say ‘hi’ to the new homeowners, and then become friends. He finished off be saying, ‘That’s a really good idea that I had, right mom?’

Cayden is such a people magnet. He draws people to him with his sparkle and zest for life. I didn’t stop to ‘make friends’ with the new homeowners. But I did tell him that it was a good idea, but we just didn’t have time at the moment. We’ll have to see if he has the same ‘good idea’, next time we go past.

Weathering the Drama of ‘Life’

2010-06-02T22:52:00.001-07:00

It’s been a crazy long time since I’ve written anything. It seems like an eternity since those wonderful 2010 Winter Games memories. But really, it hasn’t beet that long, has it?

The past few months have been rather interesting. Almost never a dull moment, really. From the first week of March to now, it seems that we’ve been on a wee bit of a roller coaster ride.

First, we finally finished our home study for our adoption. All the meetings and paperwork were finally completed and approved in the first week of March. We went ‘live’ for matching with children who were waiting for their ‘forever’ families. By that point it had been a year and a half since the very beginning of our adoption journey.

Within a few days, we got the call. The much anticipated call. The one were were looking forward to for the past year and a half. We had been matched with a sibling group. A 31 month old boy and his 16 month old sister. You can imagine our excitement! We could hardly believe it.

With this fabulous news, we felt that it would be a good time for us to sell our house. We put the ‘for sale’ sign up a few weeks later. It went onto MLS a week later. Then, 4 days later, it was sold!

Wow, we felt so blessed by all the direction we were heading. We started sharing pictures and stories with the children’s foster family in the meantime. It was getting more real and so exciting. Because of the speediness of our house sale, and the busyness that comes with moving, we had to wait a little longer for the children’s final placement with us. So, we continued with the busyness of packing, preparing, and even to add to the list of things to do, selling our tractor and our travel trailer.

Sccccrrrrreeeeeeeeeeeeeech! Yes, I mean to a halt. Not everything. We still packed all our things and moved into our new home. The new owners still moved into our lovely home. Our close friends still moved a long way out of town. Our tractor still got sold. Our travel trailer still went to its new owners.

But our adoption of these two highly anticipated children did come to a halt. It was a bitter-sweet situation. I will not trade anything, but still feel at a loss for it all. Our adoption story is not complete, just on hold. We do not write our own stories. God had other plans for our family. It is for this reason that I say it is all bitter'-sweet.

Michelle

Our Big Day in Vancouver

2010-02-24T21:02:00.001-08:00

I don’t know when exactly it hit me that I had better make plans to head into Vancouver to capture some of the Olympic fever. But I’m so glad I did. I listened to all the stories of how busy it was. How long the line-ups would be. But, WOW. Tuesday was a perfect day to play sightseer.

Jeremy, Cayden and I headed out to catch the Sky Train in Surrey fairly early in the day. That was probably my first great decision of the day. We caught the Rail early enough to all get a seat for the long ride in.

We didn’t really have a lot planned. This was a very good thing. That way we wouldn’t go home disappointed by what we didn’t get to see. The benefit of my personality type is that we are very good at ‘winging it’. Something that my husband is not so good at. But he was a trooper and let me ‘wing it’ all day with not a complaint.

We got off at Science World, and were almost immediately faced with probably the longest line-up I have ever seen in my life. The Russian Pavilion. It must have been something to see. We carried on and followed our nose through the day. Moving from one neat sight to see, to the next.

I was so impressed by our little boy, Cayden. He walked right along side us and never complained. We did of course have to stop from time to time for a ‘special treat’ to keep him moving along. I loved watching his excitement at all the things we seen. I was even especially surprised when we were heading down to see the Cauldron. As soon as it came in sight he shouted, “That’s the thingy they put on fire on TV that I saw!!”

I was wondering how the heck he even new about the Lighting of the Cauldron. He told me all about how he watched on TV as his friend Josh’s house. His eyes were filled with joy as he got to see it ‘for real.’

When people as what we did when we went to see the Olympic celebrations in Vancouver, I could only say that we really didn’t do anything specific, but we did see allot. And it was really, really, really worth the trip.

One thing I did learn is that Canadians Rock! At least most of us. We are so polite. We know how to have a good time. We love our Country. I AM CANADIAN.

A Suprise Email

2010-02-16T07:52:00.001-08:00

I had just sat down with a nice hot cup of Tim Horton's coffee, when I received notification of receiving a new email on my iphone. I opened up the email and what did I see…?

Pants on the ground, pants on the ground, lookin like a fool with your pants on the ground...

I thought to myself… is that American Idol song “Pants On The Ground” making the news again? It was a tough tune to get out of many peoples head after the first time it was sung.

I opened up the attached picture and nearly sent my coffee flying in my surprise.

There on the ground was a picture of ‘my pants on the ground’ at the office. Apparently in my hurry to make a quick wardrobe change between installing sawdust and then sitting back in the dispatch seat, I forgot to collect all my clothing from the bathroom floor.

I quickly became the office joke of the day. It sounds like all my co-workers got a field trip to the bathroom to see my ‘pants on the ground.’

If you have no idea what song I’m talking about you will have to take a quick look at the video on you tube. My only warning is, beware. It is a very catchy tune.

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games Countdown

2010-02-09T19:31:00.001-08:00

As I stood outside today, taking in the amazing sun and warm temperatures, I wondered what the athletes and visitors were thinking. It almost seemed surreal to think we could possibly be hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics with the weather we are enjoying. Skiing? Snowboarding? Bobsledding? Where’s the snow?

As I watch truckload after truckload of snow being hauled through the Fraser Valley up to Cypress Mountain for the Games, I can’t help to think about the amazing costs we are accruing to host this years Winter Olympics. One fellow I was talking to said to me, “I would be happy for it to rain up there at Cypress. That’s what my opinion is of having the Olympics here.”

What?? My quick response to him was that the games are here. Do we really want to go down in history as being the worst place to every host the Winter Olympics? Of course not. So instead we should be hoping for cooler weather, and a huge dump of snow!

But I am a ‘glass 1/2 full’ kind of person, so I focus on the excitement of the upcoming games. As well, I think of the positive benefits that the Fraser Valley has received. I mean, seriously, would we have gotten all these fabulous road improvements? How about all the other infrastructure that we so desperately needed the past few years? All this did come with a price tag of course. But the games are here. So my thinking is that we may as well look on the bright side of things.

Technorati Tags: Winter Olympics,Cayden

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T20:25:00.001-08:00

Darth Vader slash Handyman Superstar in the making.

I’m thinking that he was given the ear muffs to wear on his ears?

Technorati Tags: Cayden,costume

Lego Hockey Night

2010-02-02T23:35:00.001-08:00

Cayden introduced a new form of hockey to our family last night. Lego hockey. He made 4 Lego hockey sticks, one for each of us. (Of course he requested me to be on his team) He also made 2 Lego hockey nets and a Lego man’s head was the puck.

It was actually quite fun. Although we need to work out how to strengthen our sticks. It seems that they are a little need a little engineering. When we wind up for and take a slap shot, the blade flies off on impact with the ‘puck’ just like in the NHL. Cayden has made a few attempts at re-engineering, but hasn’t yet perfected it.

With great exuberance, he flung my door open this morning and shouted, “Come on mommy. It’s time to play hockey!” I looked at my clock, and mumbled, “It’s not wake-up time yet. We’ll play later. Go back to bed for awhile.” I rolled over, and quietly hoped that he’d crawl back into bed for a little longer.

Nope. Didn’t happen. It was only a few minutes later that he came to inform me that he had woken Ivan up so that he could play hockey with us. Uh, oh. I’m thinking that Ivan wasn’t quite ready for the early morning wake-up call either.

I finally had no choice but to drag myself out of bed and play a short round of Lego hockey with him. It was tough to do, but so worth it. I continue to have to remind myself that times like this will end, and that I need to put aside my preferences and take hold of every one of these precious moments.

After a great day together, it was time to say goodnight. Cayden tucked his little animals into the cat bed under a blanket. Spots got his own bed on top of the stool, with his blanket. And Cayden fell fast asleep with a sweet little innocent look of contentment on his face.

I’m A Cool Dude!

2010-01-27T22:17:00.001-08:00

It was rather enlightening when Cayden came to me with a baseball-cap on backwards and informed me that he was a ‘Cool Dude’ and was in search of a pair of sunglasses to add to his ‘look’.

I’m not really sure where Cayden got the idea of what a ‘Cool Dude’ looks like. It’s certainly not from me. The primary purpose of my clothing attire is ‘super comfortable’ and definitely not ‘cool’ or ‘in-style.’

I could only laugh, run for my camera and ask him to stop moving long enough for me to take a picture. I couldn't resist the cute look he had going on. The pose he gave me really has me wondering. Who has become his role model? It’s certainly not Franklin, or even Toopy and Binoo. It does make me aware that he is watching and he is learning. Here’s to hoping he is only watching and learning from us when we are at our best.

Good Intentions

2010-01-24T20:07:00.001-08:00

Christmas is usually the time to show appreciation to friends, teachers and family by purchasing or making a gift. Usually I like to gift people with my delicious Chocolate Chip Truffles. This past Christmas I had very good intentions to continue with my Christmas ritual. But after putting an effort into a bake exchange for 12 people, my ambitions sizzled.

I spent as much time on the presentation of these treats as I did on actually make them. I did enjoy being creative and putting such a great effort into it all, but I do think that maybe next time around I won’t go so crazy. The effort was certainly appreciated by those who did receive them.

Melt-in-your-mouth Chocolate Chip Truffles.

Some cute paint buckets in Christmas colors.

Some ribbons and tags.

And, voila.

A variety of tags make it even more fun.

I am embarrassed to say that many people on my list did not get checked off. There is always next year. Or maybe even Valentines Day? The ingredients for these decadent treats have been patiently waiting in my pantry. And today seemed like an ideal day to spend some time making use of these ingredients. I definitely did not go crazy and make 13 plus dozen. Just enough to treat my family, considering I was slapping away reaching hands last time I made them and got accused of not sharing!

Just Like Tigger

2010-01-20T22:08:00.001-08:00

I could not imagine what life would be like if I needed to bounce all day. I mean, we all know that Tigger was born to bounce. Remember the story where all his forest friends got mad at him and he wasn’t allowed to bounce? It was hard on poor Tigger. He wasn’t his happy self. A piece of his personality was taken away. But was my dear son Cayden also born to bounce?

We sit down to a nice dinner, lovingly cooked by yours truly. We anticipate quiet chatter about the day. Instead, we have Cayden, standing beside his chair, bouncing between chews. Were trying to work on his school memory verses. After each word he repeats, he bounces. We sit at the table to play a nice board game. Every time he’s not making a move, he stands beside his chair and bounces.

Maybe this is a sign that he’s going to be a great basketball player. Or maybe a track and field high jump super-star. I’m not really sure. At times it is incredibly annoying. At times is just plain funny. And at other times it takes me back down memory lane. When life was only fun and there was nothing to worry about. I could only show excitement at everything just like him. Everything in life was just so wonderful. So why not show enthusiasm and just bounce?

Most times I’m OK with all the bouncing. But sometimes, I just want peace. I try not to complain to much because I know that as each day passes, the bouncing is likely to subside. It will one day only be a memory. A memory of a very happy little boy who really shows his excitement by bouncing it out.

Little Children

2010-01-20T00:01:00.001-08:00

It has been a little over one year since our family started the process of adoption. When we first considered adoption, we had 3 different avenues we could follow. 1) Private adoption 2) International adoption 3) Children in Government care. It was not a super easy decision which route we should follow, but Jeremy and I did make a final decision based on what would be best for our family.

We decided that we would follow the avenue of the adoption of a local child (or children) in government care. We learned that there are many children waiting for loving families and that although the process could take a long some time, it could still be more speedy of a process than International adoption.

The emotions that led up to our final decision to adopt were rather interesting. I think that I had first brought up the option of adopting approximately a year before we made a final decision. Jeremy, at the time, was not quite sure. So, we let the subject drop awhile longer. Then Jeremy brought the subject up. At this time I was not quite sure. We flip-flopped for awhile, never with both of us feeling ready to adopt at the same time. Finally, a year ago we were both confident that it was time. We were ready to move down the path of adoption together, hand in hand. Since we made this decision, we have never doubted ourselves.

In the trail of the 7.0 earthquake in Haiti comes a whole new wave of emotions regarding adoption. Many families are in agony as the children that they have been in the process of adopting for up to two years are stuck in the chaos. The Haitian government is in ruins. What is left of all the adoption paperwork is uncertain. The Haitian Judge in charge of the adoptions is dead. Some families were only waiting on their own governments travel visas in order to bring their child home. Many do not even know if their waiting child is alive. It is a heart-wrenching time for many adoptive families.

Many people around the world are now considering adopting a child from Haiti. It is how many feel they can reach out and help. The message being sent to all who feel a calling to adopt from Haiti is: “Wait and Pray.” Wait until some of the chaos is gone. Pray for the safety of the children. Pray that they are united with family. Pray that when the time is right, the path to adopt will be open.

The journey of adoption is wonderful. But I must say, it does require a bit of patience. I am so happy for the very recent adoption of a 10 month old baby boy into the loving home of my cousins, Martin and Wieska. They have been truly blessed.

Technorati Tags: Adoption,Haiti

It’s Planner Time!

2010-01-14T22:41:00.001-08:00

You know it’s time to start using a planner when you triple book yourself one night, double book the next day, and then again double book the day after that. Yes, I know, not very good organization and maybe a few too many activities.

I received two messages when I got home yesterday. One was a reminder call of a Family Connections meeting for tonight that had been scheduled for the past month. The second message was a reminder call for some post-moving house cleaning for a single mother of 4. Which I volunteered myself for a few weeks ago. The third is an ongoing Thursday evening Bible study group that Jeremy are part of. Yikes! What to do!

I thought through it all carefully. I had to take into consideration what was most important. Maybe… disregard house cleaning. Go to Bible study for one hour, then fly out to the Family Connections meeting to catch the tail end of it. Then I started feeling a bit guilty about not following through on my commitment to help my friend house-clean for a mom-of-four who lost her husband just a year ago. So…maybe disregard Bible study. House clean for a few hours, then fly out to the Family Connections meeting. This sounded like a bit better of a choice. A quick call to cancel Bible Study and plans were set.

I love to be busy. I also like to relax. So today ended up being a bit of both. It started with the usual workday. Followed by kid pick-ups. Then one hour of helping Ivan with homework. Then fire some cleaning supplies and a salad into the trunk of my car. Meet up with Jeremy at friends for a very last minute dinner invite. Tag team Cayden, leaving him with Jeremy to take him home to put to bed, while I continued on to a whirlwind of house-cleaning. Last stop was a drive way up the mountain for the last outing of the night. Then home to relax and catch up on some favorite shows on my PVR waiting to be watched.

Yes, life is busy sometimes. But I love my life. I am intent of filling my planner with all upcoming events…tomorrow. We’ll see how the scheduling is going … next week.

Hockey Night in Chilliwack

2010-01-07T22:52:00.001-08:00

We were up by 1.The score was 3-2. It was the final minutes of a very tight game. The opposing team had position of the puck. Skated with it through the neutral zone. The puck was passed across the ice to the player skating in on me. She received the pass and skated across the blue line, into our territory.

She wound up to take a slap-shot. I positioned myself between herself and my goalie. (Girls can’t really shoot, right?) She shot. I blocked it. Then… I went down in a heap.

Yes, some girls can really shoot. I am a living testimony of this. I hobbled off the ice. My ankle swelled to twice the normal size following this play. I iced it. Wore slippers to work the next day just so I could somewhat comfortably move around. Got called “hoppity” by my husband. But it was all worth it.

I re-think the play. Yes, the puck bounced off my ankle, back into neutral territory. It was a good play. We won the game. But, I did pay. If there ever was a way to slow me down, this was it. Would I sacrifice my body for a play like this in the future? You bet. That is what competition is all about.

Is It Wake Up Time Yet?

2010-01-03T22:29:00.001-08:00

As Cayden gets older, I sometimes feel that he is growing up way to fast. I do have to look on the bright side, I do come across some benefits that come with him getting a little older.

One of these is, his understanding of myself and Jeremy’s appreciation for weekend “sleeping in.” He tries his best to let us sleep in, but at around 8:00 he’s ready to test whether we are ready to get up. He is greeted often with a response along the lines of, “not yet. 10 more minutes. But you can go ahead and play with your toys quietly.” That usually gets us and extra 1/2 hour.

This morning he came right up to my ear and whispers, “Is it wake up time yet?” I quietly told him that no, it wasn’t but that he could go play quietly. Quietly he left, then just as quietly he came back. He lifted up my arm and pushed one of his stuffed animals under my arm and without a word, left again.

About 15 minutes later he was back. Obviously ready to get us moving and on time for church. He says to me, “which socks should I wear.” I didn’t really care, but he insisted that I come and choose. It was really time to get up anyways, so I headed to his room to make my “choice”. To my surprise he had lined up in a neat little row all five pairs of new socks he had received in the mail from Ivan’s family in Korea. Including his two new pairs of gloves Ivan's family had sent.

It was so neat to see how he had patiently “staged” his new items at the foot of his bed, on top of his comforter. It's these moments that make me forget about the sadness of how quickly time is going by, and appreciate the growth that comes with that passing time.

This type of character sock is very popular in Korea. We all have received a pair or two of our own to show off.

His “motorcycle gloves.

His “comfy” gloves. Bear or dog? Were still not decided

He’s not quite looking wide awake yet. But definitely in good spirits after a few “on-time” bed times in a row post-holiday season.

It Was A Rock Band Of A Night

2009-12-31T22:35:00.001-08:00

We celebrated New Years Eve with a small group of friends and our families. Yeah, I know. 10:00pm and already writing about a New Years Eve Celebration. We haven’t even reached the New Year! Currently I have an half hour time delay between partying and delivering others home from their parties.

I am Red Nosing in tonight. To be more clear; I’m a volunteer with Operation Red Nose. A free service that delivers slightly or highly intoxicated people and there vehicles home after an evening of celebrating. This is the last night of the season. Likely to be the busiest I’m sure. I’m wondering if I might be called out to some friends. Guess we’ll soon see.

As I was driving Cayden to my sisters for a sleep-over, I asked him how he liked meeting his new little friend Quinton and playing at his house. He says, “His house was the funnest house on earth!” “Did you have fun with the adults?”

What a fun kid. He had such a good time and wasn’t ready to go home even at that late hour. It was only through some bribing from Quinton’s mom that he could come another time and play, that we got him out the door.

We did in fact “have fun with the adults". The hit of the night was definitely Rock Band. We did have some really good performances I will admit. Jeremy and I did not partake. Oh, I shouldn’t say that. We did. We were the #1 fans. Someone has to take that role right?

To all my friends and families, Happy New Year. May your year be filled with good health, happiness and prosperity.

Technorati Tags: New Years,Cayden

Is It Christmas Again?

2009-12-30T21:20:00.001-08:00

To my surprise this morning, I woke up to the quiet falling of snow outside my window. I quickly woke Cayden up and sent him to the front window to look outside. “At what?” he asked. “Just look” I replied.

He went to front door and opened it wide. Cayden squealed in delight at the falling snow and yelled, “Is it Christmas again?” I had to break it too him that Christmas has passed, and will not be back for almost a year.

I was also happy at the idea of getting out in snow. You see, I got to try out my Christmas and birthday present; new snow boots. I felt a little like a kid again as I laced them up and did a quick little run down the driveway. Just checking to make sure they didn’t leak.

To think that I was very close to not having snow boots. Originally I had told my husband not to buy me a birthday present. I had decided I wanted to pick out a new pair of snow boots. Last year I trudged through weeks of snow in dress shoes and running shoes and I didn't want a repeat this year. I told Jeremy that I preferred to do the shopping myself as it was a “personal choice.” He wasn’t super happy about this, but let it go.

A month had gone by and he asked me where my new boots were. I told him I had changed my mind and really didn’t want to spend any money on new boots. I figured I could make it through another winter without new boots.

Low and behold, Christmas came, and to my surprise, a new pair of winter boots were wrapped up under the tree. I had to admit to Jeremy that he had made a very good choice. They were definitely something I would have picked for myself. Of course he could only puff up his chest with pride at making a good choice. I am truly blessed by husbands desire to please.

Technorati Tags: Snow,Christmas,Presents

I’m Praying For Your Pictures Mommy!

2009-12-29T21:16:00.001-08:00

I really cannot believe that it has been over two months since I’ve written. On most days I thought to myself, “I really have to write about….” But, due to a fairly steady flow of technical computer difficulties, I could only think to myself, “I really have to write about….”

At one point, in the flow of technical difficulties, I had quite a scare. One that revolves around believing that every photo one has, has disappeared into cyberspace. Seriously.

I was already struggling with cleaning up my desktop computer and was trying to get everything back in order. My in-house techie decided that he should re-format my computer. So, being as computer naive as I am, I told him to go ahead and do what was needed to finally get back in computer action.

A few minutes later, he comes out my office and asks, “where did you back-up your photos” ? WHAT? BACK-UP MY PHOTOS? No, I didn’t do any such thing!

Cayden, who was already in bed but not asleep, must have sensed my on-coming stress attack at the thought of losing all my photos. Everything from the past five years. ALL MY PHOTOS. I guess he must have seen me bang my head on his bedroom door frame and heard my moan as I banged my head a second time. Because, from his bed he shouts out, “TRUST IN GOD!”. Then follows up with, “I’M PRAYING FOR YOUR PICTURES MOMMY!”

Although I was still spiraling downward at the thought that all my photos were gone, I really had no choice but to grin. Thankfully it was only a few minutes later that Ivan came to tell me, with relief on his face, that my photos had been found.

I quickly informed Cayden that his “praying my pictures” had worked. I have since gotten wise and have purchased an external hard-drive to ensure my pictures are safe. I never want to experience that feeling again.

Let The Creativity Begin!

2009-10-22T19:10:00.001-07:00

One of my excuses for not scrapbooking at home was that I didn’t have a very good space to feel creative in. I finally decided to convert an unused bedroom into a light and airy office space.

I set out to do the best job I could on a minimal budget. So I re-purposed items from other areas of the house. I made my own memory boards that make an unique wall decor item. I also re-purposed someone else's old rocking-chair. It was a very inexpensive garage sale item that I repainted and gave it new life.

I love the word re-purposed. It is currently a word that is often used on many home decor shows. It seems that many people are making a conscious effort to “Go Green” and are re-using other peoples cast-offs in a new way. There are many new shows on HGTV that are purely dedicated to re-decorating in a Green way, and one of the biggest ways to do this is by changing something you already own, or using an item that someone else no longer need.

I will have to admit, I love my new completed office. I will also have to admit, I haven’t done any scrapbooking in it yet. For the past months I could use the excuse that it was too nice outdoors. That excuse will no longer be acceptable as we enter these wet, cold and dark months ahead.

What word could be better in a space made for creativity

This was originally a plain cork-board that I painted white. It is also magnetic if you can believe it.

The perfect storage unit find at Ikea, along with a new very large desk for scrapbooking on.

I try not to clutter my open shelving unit. My comfortable “new” rocking chair sits in the corner where I sometimes read to Cayden.

Can I Say, Yawn?

2009-10-20T22:44:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I don’t usually like the word ‘bored’. But that is exactly what I felt last night as I sat through session # 1 of the Safe Babies program that I am enlisted in. I can’t believe that I have 7 more of them to sit through! I was even tempted to surf the net on my Blackberry phone, under the table, to help the time pass by. Now that’s desperate!

I signed up for the Safe Babies Program partly because it is necessary for the adoption process and partly for brownie points. Every little extra training we take helps us with the possibility of getting a little addition to our family a tad bit sooner. It’s like getting extracurricular points while in High School.

Prior to the start of the course, I had anticipated that I would actually learn some valuable tools and information. Unfortunately this was far from the truth. So far, I have learned such things as, tummy time, SIDS, H1N1 and formula. So, where’s the new information?

I will go back for more tomorrow. Hopefully with a good attitude. And hopefully for some new and important information. Here’s to the next 7 sessions!

Can I Do Homework?

2009-10-17T17:11:00.001-07:00

This year Cayden has been going to Kindergarten and he is absolutely loving it. He thinks that its not fair that Ivan gets to go to school five days a week and Cayden only gets to go two or three days a week. Cayden announced that he should go to school, “Six Times!”

The other day I thought that maybe he should maybe do some practicing of the letters he has learned in school. So far he has learned the letters ‘S’ for ‘snake’ and ‘B’ for ‘ball’. So, I got out a piece of paper and drew some lines. At the beginning of each line I wrote the letter he was to practice printing. He was to copy the letter 10 times and then work on the next letter.

He loved doing this ‘homework’. He was focused and let out a little cheer for himself when he did a letter really well. He enjoyed it so much that the next night he informed me that he needed to do homework again. He said, “I need to do homework everyday!”. Of course I was quick to agree. So, off he went to get his pencil and another sheet of paper. This time we thought he should work on learning the letters of his name. (It’s interesting that he doesn’t know how to write his name very well, but he has no problems writing Ivan’s name).

It’ll be interesting how long his interest in doing “homework” will last. We’ll keep it simple and fun in the hopes that he’ll enjoy it for as long as possible. You never know, he could turn out to be a super-studious-student! I do have to admit that he shows signs that this will be highly unlikely and I'm perfectly OK with that. I myself was never super-studious, and I turned out alright. In my opinion at least.

Super focused on his homework

I’m Thankful For…

2009-10-14T00:39:00.001-07:00

Last year around this time, children of all ages were videoed announcing what they were thankful for. The completed video was then presented on the Big Screen at church. We all ‘awwwwed’ as one by one we heard children say they were thankful for: mommy’s, daddy’s, God, food, shelter, Sunday School and many other important things that we all have been blessed with.

Then came a blast of thanks from a little 3 year old who when asked what he was thankful for. His quick response was, “Dinosouars!”.

Everyone laughed. I felt some shame as I thought to myself, “Haven’t I taught him what is important to be thankful for, and what is not?” Of course, our son Cayden, would be the little clown.

Yesterday was Thanksgiving here in Canada. As I was settling Cayden into bed, I’d thought I’d see what he was thankful for this year. Hoping of course that I’d hear something like, “mommy or daddy or God. Instead, his quick response was, “Hot wheels!”

I guess we are really going to have to work on this for next year. I’m really hoping that I’ll get a better response than that he is grateful his newest favourite toy at the time!

Cayden and JJ

2009-10-12T11:05:00.001-07:00

Memories of summer gone by. 2 buds hang out under the heat coming from the air conditioner after swimming in a cold pool. I do not take any day for granted. Each and every day that we are blessed with is something I am thankful for the Thanksgiving.

Back In Scrappin’

2009-10-10T22:21:00.001-07:00

I have been feeling the itch to get my scrapbooking supplies out of the closet for a while. It has been over nine months since the last time I tried to make an attempt. And only an attempt it was. I think I may have started a layout, but never completed it.

My sister and I made a trip out to Clipper Street in Langley to scrapbook in a great environment that encourages creativity. Not to mention it encourages browsing all the great things that would be a great addition to anyone’s supply cache. They have two classrooms with tables and chairs for scrappers to work at. Most Friday evenings they have around 30 to 35 ladies chatting while they work on their prized scrapbooks.

I went with intentions to complete a double-page layout for a few great pictures I got of Cayden this summer. The pictures were some of my favourites. I captured him investigating a Snail in our backyard one beautiful summer day. Picking pictures for a layout is often half the battle.

Unfortunately, when all is said and done, I only got a start on my layout. By the end of the evening I didn’t even like it! I’m not sure what it was exactly that I didn’t like. I never move on to a new layout unless I absolutely love the current one I am working on. The next time I sit down to scrapbook I’m going to have to pull apart what I started and try again. Oh well. No one said scrapbooking was a race.

Thanks Dad!

2009-10-08T20:16:00.001-07:00

I arrived at work to find a box in the middle of my desk. It was a Tim Horton's Box. I took one look at it, saw the note that was left on it, and without having to look inside, new exactly what I would find.

I knew with-out a doubt that I would find a raison-bran muffin. This might seem like a strange gift, but I could only smile as I thought back to when I took my dad’s last raison-bran a few months ago and how much ‘trauma’ it caused. It really isn’t my favourite type of muffin but it was the thought that counted most.

You can read about the original story here to gain insight to this morning gift from my dad.

"The World is Mud-luscious and Puddle-Wonderful." ~E.E. Cummings

2009-10-02T22:56:00.001-07:00

It was the perfect night to play in the mud. On second thought, it was a little chilly. But the cold didn’t seem to scare the many boys and girls from running through the mud bog that was created for their church youth annual event.

As I watched the bog being created, across the road from the office, I felt a little jealous that I wasn’t invited to partake in the mud games that were to take place tonight. I even suggested out-loud that maybe the employees at Denbow and there families might be able to take advantage of the work done to create this bog this coming spring when it warmed up a little.

I thought that a family event would be fantastic. I will have to admit that I think I may have changed my mind. Why? you ask. Because I think that should we host this event, we might find ourselves short about 50% or more staff members for the following week due to the strains and sprains that potentially could occur. Our customers would not be too happy. Neither will the chickens that wouldn’t be provided there nice comfortable bed. I will admit that it would be a whole lot of fun though.

As I watched these young teens slipping and sliding, wrestling, pushing and pulling their way up and down the mountains of mud, through the bogs and moats and down the monster slip and slide, I thought to myself, “If only I were young again.”

This mud bog was created for approximately 100 youths from four different churches. Some from Surrey and some from Chilliwack. They had the music blaring, the fire roaring and the hot chocolate steaming all evening. The youth leaders joined in on the fun and games with youthful joy. Some of us just stood at the sidelines wishing we could join. And others of us just stood at the sidelines and watched in disgust.

One lady stood beside me and asked if I could see myself enjoying the muddy mess. I said, “Oh yeah! I would have been in there like a dirty shirt!” She says, “Not me. No way could I see myself having fun being covered head to toe with mud.” I did feel a little sorry for her and thought that she must have been some prima donna growing up. Something I certainly never had been.

Anyone interested in playing in the mud is welcome to come on out. We plan to keep it around for a while. You never know when I might just leave my seat at my desk, walk across the road and just dive in to the mud bog. I’m thinking it might be great stress relief.

The middle mountain with the mote of water around it.

My sister Jessica, not afraid to get down and dirty

Ivan, finally got himself down into the mud. Took calling him a sissy a few times over.

Trying to get warmed up around the fire.

Ivan, full fledged mud wrestler at this point.

Getting prepared around one of the four mud bogs for a round of capture the flag.

As much mud as I would let Cayden get on him.

The base of the giant mud slip and slide hill.

Our Adoption Story Update

2009-09-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

The whole adoption process has been a true test of patience. With the large number of children awaiting good homes, you would think that the process would be quick and easy. The real facts are that it is neither quick nor easy.

It has been just shy of a year since we started the whole process. The process starts with an introductory meeting. Following this is another introductory information group session. Following this is a wait to get into a Adoption Education course that takes 3 full consecutive weekends to complete. We finished this portion this past February. Following the completion of AEP, a home study needs to completed. This could take up to 3 months to complete. A Home Study is quite a long process with many meetings and a whole pile of paperwork to be completed. Once a Home Study is completed, a "Match made in Heaven" could happen very quickly, or take a few years.

Unfortunately, the Ministry in Chilliwack is extremely short on Adoption Social Workers. Thus, the incredibly long wait. The government saw that Chilliwack is struggling with workers so they allowed the Ministry to have two Home Studies completed privately. Thankfully, we have a few good things on our side and we managed to take a giant leap in front of the pack of other potential adopters and get chosen as one of these two families. I just got the call to state that our Home Study will start this week. This is such amazing news considering that we just heard this past weekend how many people are still waiting on Home Studies to start.

Here's to the next stage of our Adoption Adventure!

I made a trip to the Classic's Scrapbook Store and to my surprise found some stickers and paper specially for adoption. Looking forward to using these pages in my scrapbook!

Did I See Red!

2009-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

If you were to see me know, you might tell me that I'm looking a tad bit angry. And you would be right. I'm typically even tempered. But when someone makes a random comment like I just heard, everything changes.

I was just at the local grocery store with Cayden. Just our usual shelf-restocking trip. We meandered our ways around the aisles and got ourselves into line after all the items on our list were checked off. (Actually, I missed a few. Shucks) Cayden was a good little companion the whole time. We were waiting in line behind an older gentleman (CrankPot!). And, Cayden with his usual 'Ants In Pants' was jumping up and down.

The older gentleman (CrankPot!) looks at him and asks, "Are you Autistic? Wow! At that very instant I was seeing red. The nerve. Remember, I am usually even tempered. At this instant my temper went off the scale.

At the time this was unravelling, I was actually on my cell-phone. The caller on the other line sensed something had to have occured and politely said, "Sounds like you have something else to attend to, I better let you go." I couldn't agree more.

I held my tongue, but wish that I hadn't. I wish that I would have had a conversation with this man about how hurtful that kind of question was. What if I was the mother of an autistic child? How would I have felt?

Well, I'm currently settling down. My calmness is starting to take over once again. Sometimes it's good to just get 'it out'.

A Step Back In Time

2009-09-25T22:39:00.001-07:00

Library Day

I was reminded the other day of one of my favourite memories when I started school. My first trip to the school library. Where I got to choose a favourite story to take home to read.

The other day, Cayden has his very own “Library Day.” It was the first one of many he will experience. I wonder if he will remember it years from now like I do.

I know he was very excited to bring home two new books to read with me. He held them up high and shouted, “Hot Wheels! Beat That!!!” I’m still not sure where that line comes from. It is one I hear every time he sees a Hot Wheel race car or picture. He shouts “Hot Wheels! Beat That!” at the top of his lungs.

We’ve already read through each of them a few times over. Hopefully when it’s time to get new books out of the library next week he doesn’t choose to re-new them. There are only so many times I like to read through the same story and 7 nights in a row will have been more than enough!

Random Afternoon Ramblings

2009-09-23T23:05:00.001-07:00

So far, so good. Cayden is loving school. So much in fact that he says he needs to go SIX days a week. (He only gets to go 2 days one week, 3 the next). Wonder how long this enjoyment of school will last? His one request is that he gets to wear his “comfy” pants to school. Unfortunately for him, Wednesdays are mandatory “dress-pants” day. I have to say that I am a little jealous of his uniform. I wish that two days a week I get to wear sweats and a tee-shirt to work like he does.

The day was amazing. Who could believe that it’s actually fall. The sun and 30 degrees of temperature we enjoyed was fantastic. It was so beautiful that it didn’t take a whole lot of arm bending for Cayden to convince me to take him out to the BMX track to enjoy the evening.

As usual Cayden gave me a whole lot to chuckle about. Non-stop silly banter. One of the funniest comments today was, “I’m so thirsty, I could eat a elephant!” He quickly started laughing. I’m thinking he must have realized how silly that sounded.

We got to the track, he strapped on his helmet and off he rode. Every hill he went over, a giggle was sure to follow. I enjoyed watching from the sidelines. I cheered and caught up on reading some blogs on my Blackberry Storm.

One of the best things about school is that it actually wears Cayden out. By the time we got home tonight, bath time complete, and story read, he was so ready to sleep that it took only one minute for him to fall asleep. Much better than the usual hour or two.

These pictures are actually from the BMX track in my neighbourhood. Thanks to Carmen, we finally did find it at the far East end of Riverside Drive. We spent many afternoons here this summer.

Just bring a shovel along with you and could make your own jumps, big or small. I think kids have just as much fun making new jumps as they do taking them.

My Little Cowboy

2009-09-21T23:39:00.001-07:00

It was off to a birthday party we were going. Cayden must have overheard me on the phone with the mom of the birthday boy, talking about dress-up. Not thinking I had anything for Cayden, I mentioned to her that once we got to the party we would borrow an outfit from one of her boys for Cayden to wear.

The next thing I know, Cayden appears all dressed up. He managed to scrounge enough cowboy stuff in the back corners of his room and put together his very own ‘get-up’. I did add the little cowboy vest with a “Marshal” badge on it, to his outfit. It was one sewn especially for him last March for a wedding. He was one of the “Marshalls” for the bride and groom. To my surprise he could still squeeze into it.

The only thing missing were the cowboy boots. He has long out-grown those. So, I told him to go get his running shoes on instead so that we could be on our way to the party.

Ivan came into the house and says with a snicker, “Cayden’s wearing his gumboots.” Sure enough, there he is with a cowboy outfit and gumboots. I had to laugh and just say “whatever”. I had to put aside the desire to tell him that he looked silly with his gumboots on and just let him be. He was happy, so I was happy. Who said little boys need to make a fashion statement anyways?

Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs

2009-09-18T22:38:00.001-07:00

Cayden and I waved our good-byes to Jeremy as he headed out on a Land Rover trip in the mountains for the week-end. Then Cayden and I made our way out to Mission Silvercity to catch a movie together. We had our own little date night.

The movie was entertaining for sure. So were the 3D glasses, of course. After watching a large variety of food fall from the skies for an hour-and-half, I feel sick at the thought of eating something right now. Seriously. Too much food is never a good thing!

To Go, Or Not To Go

2009-09-17T22:01:00.001-07:00

The Big Kindergarten decision

The decision to send Cayden to school was not a quick one. I was on the fence whether it would be a good idea or not. Cayden’s birthday is so late in the year that I wondered whether he might be too young to start school at such a young age. I also felt a little sorry for his potential teacher. Seeing as how his focus is really only on fun and games.

We finally made the decision. Yes, he would go to Kindergarten. Two times. This year and next. I finally feel relief in my final decision. One I went back and forth between for the past year.

Once the decision was made, it was full board ahead. Shopping for new school supplies, back-packs, lunch bags and shoes. The shoes were his favourites. I think the whole experience of getting ready for school was more exciting for me than it was for him. We were counting down the sleeps together to the first day of school. It finally came. And guess what? I wasn’t ready!

The morning of the first day of school was a whirlwind of activity. Breakfast, making of lunches, getting out the new clothes, brushing teeth, combing hair and out the door. Ooooopps! An empty back-pack. Where were the school supplies? They were still in the same bag we got them in from Staples a month ago! They were supposed to get labelled with his name and make there way into the empty back-pack. Ivan to the rescue. While I was racing around finding the new shoes and my camera for first day of school pictures, Ivan nicely labelled all the new school supplies and into the back-pack they went.

Into the truck we all loaded. Drop Ivan off first at Highroad. And make our way to MEI. First day of school… and Cayden was late. Not a good start I would say. The whole idea of taking a ton of great photos of Cayden going to his first day of school was out the window. I did manage to quickly snap one picture at least.

His first day was a success. He loved “studying'” and singing “O Canada” in chapel. I’m hoping he will continue to enjoy going to school. One can only wish.

Evening At The Lake

2009-09-15T23:38:00.001-07:00

It’s the middle of September already! I can hardly believe how quickly my favourite season, Summer, has passed by. I say this every year at around this time and I feel the same emotions every year at this time. I feel sadness.

I made a last minute decision to take Cayden to Cultus Lake after dinner and enjoy an evening swim. Him, not me. It seems that cold water doesn’t scare him away as much as it does me. So, I got to enjoy the sunny evening on the park bench while Cayden chased ‘baby’ fish knee deep in the water.

As was enjoying watching Cayden play in the lake, I looked to my left. And saw… no-one. Then I looked to right. And I saw… no-one. The summer busyness at the beach is all gone. It was very peaceful, but also a reminder that hot summer days at the beach are pretty much over for this year.

I looked at this little house behind me with a little “For Sale” sign in the window and imagined a little of what it would be like to have this view from my front window for 12 months of the year. Reality then hit. A tiny little cottage on the lake for 2 months of a year is a dream. The other 10 months of the year would not be. Nine hundred square feet of living space would not be so wonderful for four bodies. But it is a nice thought though.

We then headed over to the jungle gym to enjoy a little play time before the sun was getting ready to set behind the mountains. I was chasing Cayden up the ladder and he suddenly stopped. He says in a cute little singsong voice, “Aaawwwe, a little baby…” then stops what he’s saying and he smacks his hands together. Then he finishes his sentence… “spider.” He quickly wipes the smashed “baby spider” on his shorts and continues off running.

Enjoy the day!

August Fave Five #5

2009-09-11T22:15:00.001-07:00

Yukon dan

This August, Yukon Dan, held his second annual gold panning competition at Yale Campground, just East of Hope. A friend of mine had highly recommended we give this competition a try based on her families experience last summer.

I was surprised by the large number of people who came out for the fun. The event drew a total of 180 competitors out this year which grew from 100 competitors last year. It was great to see the passion Yukon Dan had for Panning. It his desire to keep the tradition of gold panning alive by teaching even the youngest children to pan.

The weekend started with some training in the tradition of panning for gold by the professionals. Following this we all had our own competitions to compete in. Unfortunately no winners in our family, but that’s OK. It was all about the fun. We all did manage to find some gold flakes in our pans, which was the point of it all anyways.

Cayden also did manage to learn how to pan for gold with the help of a professional gold panner. Of course he had more fun chasing other children with sticks, playing of the swings and bike riding through the campground.

The week-end started out rainy, but it did turn beautiful and sunny. So a trip to the Fraser River also became part of the agenda. I really wasn’t planning to swim but the decision was out of my control once Ivan managed to give me a shove right into the river. Thanks IVAN!!

The whole camping trip was alot of fun. We hope to give it another try next year. You can visit Yukon Dan’s website for information on his third annual gold panning competition planned for the last weekend in August of 2010.

August Fave Five #4

2009-09-09T22:02:00.001-07:00

Hang Out Tuesday

This past August weather was the best that I remember in years. I only remember sunny days and perfect temperatures. The thing that makes the best lazy summer day is to “hang-out.”

Cayden and I term Tuesdays our very own “hang-out” day. Its the extra day I take off of work almost every week to enjoy being at home with Cayden. It’s often filled with errands, but almost always has something extra fun involved as well.

On this particular day, we had some extra guests to “hang-out” with. Cayden’s cousins, Jessica and JJ. I made no plans to run errands on this particular day. The only plans I made were to have fun in the sun. I even managed to get in a few pages reading a good book on the back deck while listening to the kids laugh and yell and sometimes even fight. (Thankfully not too much of the fighting).

It was a very good day. One I wish I could repeat. We’ll just have to make an attempt at replicating the day in the near future.

August Fave Five # 3

2009-09-07T21:35:00.001-07:00

We were enjoying an overnight stay at Camperland this past August with Cayden’s Nana. We happened to choose the weekend where they host a yearly event of “Trick Or Treating” in August.

It was a last minute decision to participate, therefore it was also a last minute search for a ‘get-up’ for Cayden. Prior to seeing all the other children dressed up, I suggested that he go dressed up as ‘Cayden.’ He was OK with this. I quickly changed my mind when the other children started on their way through the campground. Every child (all 250) were fully dressed up.

So, off we were scrounging the closets for an outfit for Cayden. And did we ever get a good one. Zorro the second was created. Of course Cayden has no Idea who Zorro it but there is no doubt that the adults did. The recognition by all the adults as they said “Hi Zorro” to him every time he stopped at their campsite was enough pleasure for him.

We typically don’t participate in the tradition of Trick Or Treating October 31st, but did find this event a lot of fun. There were prizes for the best dressed as well as the best decorated campsite. My mother-in-law made it to third place for all her efforts at the campsite and Cayden made it in the top eight for best dressed boys.

I actually don’t know who had more fun; Cayden, my mother-in-law or myself. I’ve already marked our calender for camping at Camperland the same week-end next year.

August Fave Five # 2

2009-09-02T22:18:00.000-07:00

My second favorite of August has to be the wonderful trip to Vancouver to watch the live musical of "Annie" at the Theatre Under The Stars. Theatre Under the Stars is an outdoor venue that performs in Malkin Bowl in the heart of Stanley Park. Every summer they alternate two different performances on alternating nights. I highly recommend everyone to try to make it out to one show next summer. (Sorry, you missed out for this summer).

It was the perfect night and I had the perfect company for such a fabulous night out. Arenda and I first enjoyed a great Salmon dinner at Montana's and then headed out of the Lower Mainland and travelled to the far side of Vancouver, to Stanley Park.

I don't think I've ever made it to an event with so much time to spare. It was wonderful. We were able to admire the fabulous gardens in Stanley Park. You know the saying, "Smell the roses." Well, smell we did and with great pleasure. I think I'm going to have to make a habit of being early. It was a great change of pace.

The story, "Annie" took place in 1932 at the height of the Great Depression. It tells the outrageously funny story of a spunky redheaded orphan who escaped an orphanage searching for her parents but is sadly caught and returned. Her luck changes, as Billionaire Oliver Warbucks invited Annie to his house for Christmas and the two hit it off and Annie wins his heart. Of course there is the happy ending with Daddy Warbucks adopting adorable Annie and her dog Sandy.

One of my favorite parts of the musical is hearing the song "Tomorrow." It reminds me of how great it is to face situations of life with optimism. The following are the lyrics of the song.

The sun'll come out Tomorrow

Bet your bottom dollar

That tomorrow There'll be sun!

Just thinkin' about Tomorrow

Clears away the cobwebs,

And the sorrow 'Til there's none
When I'm stuck a day That's gray,
And lonely, I just stick out my chin
And Grin, And Say, Oh!
The sun'll come outTomorrow
So ya gotta hang on 'Til tomorrow

Come what may Tomorrow!

Tomorrow!I love ya Tomorrow!

You're always A day A way!

Some pictures of the great garden displays in Stanley Park. I can only dream of one day having some beautiful displays like this in my own backyard.

August Fave Five

2009-09-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Wow! Where have I been this past month? It feels like I have been writing my blog daily, but when looking at my blog, I see nothing. Appears to me that I have writing blogs in my mind, but not at my computer.

I've decided to catch up on the highlights of the last month by posting my Favorite Five memories of the Month of August. To start with, my favorite memory is our annual family trek to N'kmip, Osooyoos.

As far as I can remember, over 27 years, our family has been packing up our camping gear and heading for Hot and Sunny Osooyoos. We are very fortunate to have been able to claim some of the best real estate, right on the water, for two weeks every summer at the very same campground through all these years.

These two weeks are always the very best of every summer. OK, only one week for me. But I have promised myself that no matter what, it's going to be two weeks for me as well next year. Everyone is laughing at me because apparently I've been saying this for the past four years. But I really mean it this time. Seriously, I mean it.

The time passes too quickly every year. It is time filled with board games in the evenings, boating, sun-bathing, swimming, desert walks, reading on the beach and so many other fun and relaxing activities.

Is is not without drama, squabbles, laughter, teasing and frustrations that we get through this wonderful trip as a growing family. We are far from a perfect family. But we are a family that continues to bond by spending time together on this trip every year. Good thing we now book three sites side by side. At least we can move 100 feet away from the crown if we need some space. LOL.

It has been great to continue this tradition with Cayden. He has been building his own memories of what camping in Osooyoos means to him, and they are not unlike my own as a child. I hope that we are blessed to be able to continue this trip with all my siblings, parents, nieces and nephews and Children for many more years.

Cayden looks like he is engrossed in a story, but he is really just checking out the children on the rope swing at the next site over. He is an undercover child watcher here.

No baby's to push today, so lucky for Cayden Tara was quite happy to go for a ride.

Playing Dutch Blitz at the waters edge. No better place than this.

Dad gets a free spa treatment courtesy of Jaelyn and Jessica. Yuck!

Jeremy, Cayden and Jaelyn head out for a daily tube ride. Faster, Faster!

Till' tomorrow when I will share my second Fave of August, 2009.

Did You Eat My Muffin?

2009-08-05T23:26:00.001-07:00

This is a story of "The Case Of The Missing Muffin." It is rather a funny one. To this day it is still only slightly funny to my dad, for it was his muffin that went missing.

I can only laugh at how distraught my father was to find his beloved Bran Muffin gone from the place he had tenderly left it on his kitchen counter. You see, I work in the office next door to his home. When I need some milk for coffee, I raid my mom's fridge. When I smell some good baking. I go to see what's baking in my mom's oven. When I've completely forgotten my lunch, I check to see if somethings available in my mom's cupboards. (My mom is OK with this arrangement)

Well, this particular day, I wandered into the house for some milk for my coffee. On the counter, I spied a Tim Horton's muffin box with a bran muffin in it. I thought to myself, "there were six. Now there is one. I'm sure everyone's had there fill. So, muffin # 6 will go along very nicely with my coffee."

Not too long later, into the office comes the boss.(My dad) Not with too happy of a look. He says to me, "Did you take my muffin?" Of course I couln't lie. So I had to admitt to it. To my dismay, I got a bit of an earful for taking his muffin.

I was a little humbled by this and had to drive all the way to the nearest Tim Hortons to replace his muffin. I handed it to him and laughed at him for being sooo dramatic about a silly muffin. He replied that it was the principle of not taking something without asking.

A month or so has gone by since this incident. Just last week we had some guests at our campsite and the story of the muffin came up in conversation. My dad stuck to his story, "That it's the principle." And I stuck to my story, "You were just in a mood and it had nothing to do with principle. You just wanted that darn muffin right then and there."

Well, did we ever have our guests laughing. I have to tell you that in the end of it all, he did admitt that it really was about the fact that he was in a mood and really wanted that darn muffin right then.

I think that I won when I reminded him that he was very fortunate to have his daughter so close to him that she could just pop over for this or that. Not every parent is blessed to have all there children so close by. He agreed quickly. The stealing of the muffin is forgiven. It amazes me how my dad has attempted to use one missing Tim Hortons muffin to teach a life lesson to his daughter. I have to say that the lesson has been lost on me.

2009-07-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

It was a summer Friday night in Downtown Chilliwack. For the past few years this meant something. It meant it was 'Party In The Park' at Central Park for families to enjoy. A main stage is set up for three live bands to perform every Party In The Park. As well as a Funzone for kids to have some play time. My son Cayden's favorite thing is the face painting done by the owner of Miss Muffets Toy Shop.

It is only for face painting that Cayden will stand for a whole hour patiently. That's not fair. He won't stand this long if it was for something I wanted! I have to say, It's worth the wait.

Another favorite is that after have a face painting, we head over to sit and listen to the music while Cayden and many other children dance and move in front of the stage. I think Cayden must have been catching a few episodes of 'So You Think You Can Dance'. He had the moves! I loved all his attempts at break dancing.

There is also a little market to browse. I got some good deals on some fresh produce and we all walked away with an ice cold pop and some Kettle Corn. Another favorite thing of mine is bumping into alot of people I know and having a quick catch up. It has been a growing event and well worth the trip even if you happen to live in the Sardis side.

The Animals Are Too Loud!

2009-07-16T22:48:00.000-07:00

It's about 10:30 pm and our dear little boy is still awake. He has come out of bed with a number of different requests through the evening to postpone the inevitable; falling asleep.
It's finally been about 20 minutes since his last appearance so I figured, "finally, he's gone to sleep." I go down to peek in on him, only to find him laying on his back, twirling some hair with his fingers.

I ask him why he's still awake. Thinking at this time the obvious answer would be that it is far too hot to sleep. (It's verrrry warm tonight!) But his response is this. "My animals are too loud so I can't fall asleep." What you need to know is that on this very hot night he has piled six stuffed animals into his bed to sleep with him!

So I said to him, "Why don't I take them out of your room so that you could sleep." He says, "No, they need to stay here, but I need to sleep somewhere else."

He didn't get his way and the house is finally quiet. His animals must have stopped "being too loud" because it wasn't too long after before he finally fell asleep.

The BMX Track Gets Found

2009-07-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Cayden and I were on a search for a little dirt track for him to test his new two-wheel biking skills. We never did find the track so this afternoon we made another attempt. We headed out the door before the rain clouds came and did a little more searching by the Canadian Tire, where two people mentioned thinking there was a track.

Ah hah! It was found! What a great little place for kids to hang out get some hang-time. Cayden had a blast. With a little confidence through practice he picked up speed and attempted even some of the bigger hills. It was rather funny because every time he'd go over a little hill he'd let out a loud giggle.

Were looking forward to making some more visits to the track in the future. He gave me a list of a few friends we should call and invite along. So don't be surprised to get an invite to hang out at the local BMX track by Cayden. Don't worry, he'll encourage you to start on the 'little bumps' first to get some practice.

2009-07-11T23:54:00.000-07:00

Today was day unlike most days. It was a day with zero plans or commitments. It doesn't happen very often and I found it rather strange. We decided to hit the road and see what would come our way. We set out with a bike, swimsuit, snacks and camera so as to be prepared. The camera was as per Caydens orders. He informed me that I needed to take the camera along to take pictures of him because 'I like pictures'.
Our first thought was to find a place with jumps, bumps and lots of dirt for Cayden to ride his bike. We were sadly dissapointed to not find the track that a friend had thought was located somewhere by the local Canadain Tire. Anyone with information of where such a track might be will have to let me know.
With a whole day ahead of us I decided to hit the highway and head in the direction of Langley. We made down to my favorite stores with-out a hitch. This was not the case for all the travellers atempting to head East out of Vancouver. Those poor travellers had numerous accidents in their path. One at 248th St. ( Traffic was stop and go all the way to 176th St!) One at Clearbrook Rd., Another one at Whatcom Rd. and even another serious one at Vedder Rd. We managed to scoot our way down many side roads to make good time getting back to Chilliwack.
The afternoon was still young so we had a nice afternoon in our very own back-yard sanctuary. Cayden dunked his head in the pool and styled his hair in a mohawk that he was very proud of. What a cutie. In perfect form he modeled his new hair for the camera.

The Three Amigos

2009-07-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

This week I learned one important thing. When you have two extra kids for a sleep-over be prepared to give yourself at least an extra 1/2 hour in the morning if there is a time-line to keep! I think this is probably the first time ever that I have had to get more people than myself and Cayden up and out the door and off to work.

I thought I had given myself enough 'extra' time for the extra two children. Not so. It seems that just because Cayden and I have a routine of breaking Olympic records for morning preparations, not all children are up for the same challenge. It wasn't with-out a lot of 'hurry up, were going to be lates' before we finally got loaded up and on the road.

It was a fun time for Cayden to have his two little cousins over to play. Definitely not a lot of peace and quiet for me this afternoon. I have no complaints though. The sound of kids laughing, giggling and then arguing over a toy, is what makes children so fun to be around.

We won't have too many more opportunities for sleep-overs due to the Antolin family pulling up stakes in BC and moving to the Philippines to join there dad on the missions/resort endeavours. He left on his own this past May to get the resort started before the family joined him. You can read about their new and exiting venture at;
jovenantolin.blogspot.com.

Cayden chats with Nana while having some lunch. He invited himself to join them on their next camping venture.
Not too tough to get kids to eat their lunch when it's got this on it.

Jessica showing off her missing teeth. Look at those big eyes!

JJ says it was finger licken' good.

GOSPA

2009-07-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

Surprising enough, even with-out being in school I have managed to be late in turning in an assignment. Not a school assignment, but a work one, mind you. The assignment was what one would think should be pretty easy to complete. My task was to come up with a Strategic Plan for the agriculture division at Denbow. That's next on my task of things to do tonight. It'll be only one day late. Not too bad eh?

Developing a Strategic Plan is a great thing for everyone to do. Whether for business or personal reasons. The term GOSPA refers to the following;

Goals- are both qualitative and quantitative
Objective- the sub goals that must be accomplished to achieve the larger goals.
Strategies- different ways you can accomplish objectives.
Plans- the written plan on how to achieve those objectives.
Activities- the tasks that have to be completed and measurable for you to fulfill the plans.

Alright, so I've now re-educated myself on how to develop a Strategic Plan, so I'd better get down to business and 'get er done'.

Friends Through The Ages

2009-07-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that it has been two full weeks since the last time I've written. Time truly does move quickly when your having fun!

I'd like to take a few minutes to write about a good friend of mine who celebrated her 34th birthday yesterday. If you knew her and you knew me, you would likley be very surprised to learn that we have been good friends for over half our lives. I'm going to call her 'Andrea Bonneo'. This is a pen name she had given herself years ago just as an author would. She is a very creative writer and I have encouraged her over the years that it was never too late to give 'writing' a try.

We co-existed in the same class at a small local school from the very start of our education. She was one of 'the smart kids' in our class and so very quiet. I was an 'average kid' and not so quiet. I don't even know if we really ever talked to each other until about grade nine when I started working at the same greenhouse she already worked in. (I could write pages about this job, LOL).

It was through working side by side at the greenhouse that we came to become unlikely friends. She really came out her 'quiet place' at this time. I'd like to think that it was because she really had no choice but to open up. Something like 'fight or flight' I guess. We have maintained a comfortable friendship ever since. Probably one of our most common interests has been 'catching up' at a great restaurant by the name of Dakotas.

'Andrea Boneo' and I have a friendship that evolves not around our similiaries, but around our differences. This is probably the only friendship that I have of this kind and I something I truly enjoy. I believe that she brings the calm and I bring the exuberance to our friendship.

It is so great to have a friend of many so many years and I look forward to many more! Happy Birthday to you, and may you have many more healthy and happy years.

'We Are Trying To Get Warm!'

2009-06-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

What a treat it was for Cayden to have his cousin JJ have a sleep-over and hang out. They don't see each other often but you wouldn't know it if you had seen them together. I was a little surprised to see that other boys can make as much noise as Cayden. It was actually quite nice. He isn't the only loud one!

We did so much running around from store to store, but this time it was so easy! Even with the extra child. I think I'd much rather take these two together on an errand run than just Cayden alone. They amused each other the whole time and did not stop talking.

After the whole morning we finally made it home. They had some swimming time in a very cold pool. Cayden and JJ were a little cold so they decided to 'warm up' by sitting under the window with the exhaust hose from our air conditioner that was 'cooling down' the inside of our home. I couldn't resist snapping a few pictures.

What a great day. Cayden is wishing that his 'best friend' could have ten sleep-overs. The sad thing is that in a few short months JJ will be moving out to the Philippines to start a new adventure with his family. I guess we'll just have to fly out there and have ten sleep-overs at there new home!

“Don't squat with your spurs on”

2009-06-18T21:44:00.000-07:00

Tonight we were invited to a dinner at Central Community. It was an appreciation dinner meant for all the many people who take part in helping out in a wide variety ways at the church. The staff and lead team, once again, did a fantastic job at this years Cowboy themed event.

We were welcomed by, as usual, the ever talented at making us laugh, Ernie Charleton. You could have believed you had actually stepped back into the Lone Ranger days as you were immediately surrounded by "Heeee Haws!" and cowboy out-fitted guys and gals. We were served a delicious camp dinner of ribs, baked beans and corn-bread, followed by home-made pie.

There were a number of great door prizes as well as music by the Young Street Vocal Band. Probably the funniest part of the evening was the pig calling competition! Pronounced something like "sooweeing". (probably spelled wrong, but an actually term). Of course Suzanne gave us all a good laugh with her initial ear-piercing screech.

Thanks Central for being such a great place to call home!

A Sad Farewell To Spring Soccer

2009-06-16T23:11:00.001-07:00

It was perfect soccer weather tonight. Just enough of a breeze and a perfect cloud cover. Our season ended tonight with a 1 goal loss to the Rosedale Rockers. I have to be honest and say that it was a completely unexpected loss. I'm sure the soccer ball was in their end of the field at least 75% of the night. Unfortunately we just didn't have the firepower to put one in. Oh well. There's always next year. We are all definitely looking forward to the next season of Tsunami Soccer. Great game ladies!

I think Cayden is going to miss soccer season as much as I will. Every Tuesday and Thursday evening was a great social event for him. He loved to come out. Not to watch me of course, but to play with the many other kids who also came out to 'not watch their moms' play soccer.

This Is For Jaelyn!

2009-06-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

All boy! Although girls can play with snails too. I remember the days when I had no problem playing with snakes, snails and bugs. Those days, I'm a little sad to say, are long gone.

Cayden was so sweet. He came to me with this snail sitting on a branch. My first reaction was, "Yuck!" He says, "I'm saving this for Jaelyn. She has snails at home and needs another one." I thought to myself that he couldn't possible talking about my girlie girl niece. But he was very insistent that Jaelyn definitely did collect snails.

11 Sail Waits!

2009-06-14T23:08:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, I was headed out to Vancouver around 6:00pm. I caught a bit of the traffic report only to hear that there was an eleven sail wait on the Albion Ferry for commuters heading home after a long days work. Eleven sail waits is a mind numbing three hours of sitting in your car in Fort Langley waiting to get across the Fraser River to Maple Ridge.

After at least 3 years of road construction, the long awaited day is very near. The opening day of the Golden Crossing Bridge, which connects the City's of Maple Ridge and Langley. Gone will be those long ferry line-ups! For a measly $3.00 a person can zip across in 10 minutes flat.Who could possibly complain. $3.00 or 3 hours wait. Not a difficult choice for me.

Denbow Transport had a large part in the completion of the Bridge. Not with the actual construction, but with the 'Greening' up of the roadways all around the South end and the North end of the bridge deck.

Deadlines were fast approaching so I volunteered a Saturday to help Denbow meet the completion deadlines. It was a very long but well-spent day. It was the first time I got the experience the complexities of such a major project. My hat goes off to Chuck and Jared. I'm thinking that maybe some gray hairs came with this one!

On this Saturday I made history! I was the first truck driver that got to make a maiden voyage across the Golden Crossing Bridge from the Langley side to the Maple Ridge side. I had my camera handy, so of course I was busy snapping pictures while I was busy maneuvering the truck around the crews of people still working on the bridge deck.

After I dropped of the bark mulch, I thought that maybe I would make the attempt to head South over the bridge. I checked in with Chuck. He figured that it should be OK. So off I went. I followed the signs that said 'Hope', because that was the direction I needed to head to reload. I slowly made my way across the bridge deck, again maneuvering around the crews and finally made it to the South end.

Oh, oh. Houston, we had a problem. I made it to the very end of the off ramp only to come to... Concrete blockades. Immovable concrete blockades. I pulled the parking brake on the truck and got out. I stood beside the truck and actually brought my hand up to scratch my head in wonder. What the heck am I going to do now? I thought. After a few minutes of standing there, thinking that by some miracle those barricades would move, I finally made the only decision I could.

Time for a looooonnnnnggggg reverse. So, not only did I get the opportunity to drive across the Bridge, I also got the opportunity to back-up over the bridge! I found the whole thing a little humorous. Good thing I have no problems laughing at myself.

Our Express Blower trucks in action on the North side.
Wow, look at that bridge! It is an amazing site.

Approaching the middle of the bridge deck.

The above is a picture of the point where I could go no further. See where the road continues into four lanes. Not on this day!

Our Langley reload center is in the thick of things with the whole project. Our poor drivers had many long waits through the past few years of construction!

9 Days And Still Alive!

2009-06-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

A few months back, Cayden got his first pet. A fish with a new name every few hours. He loved this fish. He'd make regular visits and chat with his fish. I was quite impressed by how much he enjoyed it. Well, unfortunately this little fish with many names went to "fish heaven" only 1 week later. Cayden bawled when I broke the bad news. After a whole week of his pestering for another fish, we finally set out to the new pet store in town.

I let Cayden choose his fish and off we went home fish in hand. This fish was lucky enough to obtain the name 'Piper'. Jeremy, Cayden and I spent much of that afternoon outside and 'Piper' familiarized himself with his new home. A few hours later, Cayden asked to go inside to see his fish. I told him that it would be okay and reminded him not to put his hands into the fish tank. A little later, I thought that it was time to check up on him. It had been a little too quiet. And you know what that means... I found Cayden with his hands in the tank and water everywhere. Not only this, but bubbles in the fish tank! Poor little Piper was struggling for clean water to get some oxygen, but there was none to be had. Needless to say, a few hours later poor little Piper joined Cayden's first fish in 'fish heaven'. I have to say that I do have some regrets at how angry I had gotten at Cayden when I found him "cleaning the fish tank".

After this fish episode, Cayden had to really earn his next fish. A month of waiting and once again we were off to the pet store to make yet another fish purchase. This time he chose a yellow Beta fish. Even before he picked his fish out, he'd had a new name picked out. 'Goldi' has now been in our home longer than the previous fish. Here's to a long and happy life with our new fish. Three's a Charm, right?

It's Barbeque Time

2009-06-03T22:15:00.000-07:00

For the past three summers I had full intentions of upgrading our barbeque to a sleek, large, stainless steel barbeque. One on which I would attempt to prepare a feast for family and friends. A few weeks ago we finally made it happen. Jeremy and I decided to treat each other to a practical Mothers Day and Fathers Day gift. We finally came to a mutual agreement on a Broil King Stainless Steel barbeque from the Home Depot. What a test of patience that purchase was!

Home Depot had a special offer one weekend where they would throw in free assembly. It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that it would be a good idea to make the purchase at this time. It took almost an hour to make the initial purchase. Seems they only keep one person on staff in the seasonal department, even when there are ten people trying to purchase barbeques. I finally completed the sale and was told to come back to pick-up our purchase later that week.

I went back to pick it up, only to find out after another 1/2 hour wait, that they had built the wrong one. As patient and polite as I am, I waited patiently for another 1/2 week and again made the trip to Abbotsford to pick the barbeque up. Well, lo' and behold, they did not have one waiting for me to pick up. Again, as patient and polite as I am, I politely told the clerk that I would not be able to go home empty handed this time. So I ended up taking a slightly dented floor model home.

Another 1/2 hour later they finally managed to round up a staff member to help me load the very large item into my truck. Yes, they found one person. And he was a small, not very strong one at that. He managed to drop his end, do a little more damage to the barbeque and I was rescued by a very nice gentleman in the parking lot who offered to assist me in loading up the monstrosity.

I finally managed to get the purchase home. It has been everything I had hoped. Already I've managed to make some very impressive meals on it. I even managed to make a stir fry meal!

Tonight was probably my most original dinner yet. I found this recipe in The Weber Barbeque Recipe Book. Wow, was it ever good. Two thumbs up for this one and hopefully many more.

Chicken Involtini with Proscuitto and Basil

When You Want To Save Money...

2009-06-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

When your on a budget, I highly recommend one thing. If you manage to follow this one recommendation, I guarantee you will save money. I speak from personal experience. Not only will you save money on gas, you will also save money on your purchases. What is this secret "one thing", you ask. Here's the secret. When your heading Westbound on highway 1 out of Chilliwack, keep yours eyes on the exit signs. When you come to the Whatcom Road exit sign, take the off ramp. At the top of the ramp, turn left. Go over the bridge deck and immediately turn left again. Now you should be heading Eastbound, back to Chilliwack.

If you follow these directions, you will bypass all those wonderful stores in Abbotsford where it is easy to take your wallet out many times over and spend money. You can avoid Costco, Home Sense, Winners, Home Depot, Micheal's, and Waalmart. Trust me, I know from personal experience how easy it is t spend money in this town. On another note, what a gorgeous day! After a busy day I managed to make it once again to the soccer field well ahead of most other players. You may be thinking, "whoopee". But my teammates know how amazing this is. Last season I was lucky to make it to the field at the start of the game, often even a few minutes late. My teammates all keep thinking that they are hallucinating when they show up to the game and I'm already there. I like this new leaf. I think I'll continue to work on this timeliness. It sure is nice not to be rushing onto the field.

Off to the soccer game with a cool drink in one hand, and a lunch bag full a sharing treats for all the other kid fans watching their moms running up and down the field chasing a round ball.

Hoping for a better finish at the end of next game! Definitely not one of our best efforts.

Relay For Life 2009

2009-05-31T21:12:00.000-07:00

It was that time of year this past Friday night. It was Relay For Life time. Previous to my soccer team-mates encouragement for us to put in a team this year, I had never heard of the Relay For Life. It is an event that is held Canada-wide to raise funds to end the disease of cancer. Cindy thought it would be great for our team to join and raise funds in support of our team-mate Jan who at a young age has had to battle cancer.

We were fortunate to have had amazing weather for the event. The skies were a beautiful blue and the stars eventually came out to help us keep on track. We all stocked up on sugary snacks to help keep us awake through the night. We were in for a long one. The walk started at 7:00 pm and ended at 7:00 am the next morning. Thanks to Willetta, we managed to get stocked up on Tim Hortons coffee right around 1:00 am, after already much walking.

A fellow soccer team also joined the event. There were many threats back and forth of pranks. I almost got drenched by them, but thanks to Cindy, I managed to stay dry. One of our team-mates managed to find a toy rat in her sleeping bag. Hum, I wonder how that go there?
I was so impressed by how far some teams go for this event. There were fabulous outfits, decorated tents and many dollars raised. One team, The Nightingales, raised over $20,000 dollars!

The Relay For Life is definately an event worth joining. We plan to join again next year and put an hope to add to our fundraising as well as our team. For those of you out there looking for a great excuse to stay up all night, I strongly suggest you get a team together and sign up the The Relay For Life 2010. Not only is it a good way to raise funds for fighting cancer, but it is also a great event for remembering those have battled cancer and lost.

Cayden decorated this memory candle for his Grandpa, Jim McEachern
The track was lit up by the momory candles.

Sonya, our team captain takes a break after 3 1/2 hours of walking.

My memory candles for Jane and Frank Boesterd

I didn't dress for the early morning hours so I walked the night away wrapped up in my blanket.

The kids came out to walk with us the first while.

And off to the races. Only 12 hours to go!

They managed to catch a picture of me the 15 minutes I slept all night!

Mommy, Can You Sleep With Me?

2009-05-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

After a very hard fought soccer game tonight, Cayden and I made our way home. I managed to acquire two blisters on each foot and a few new bruises to add to all the rest of my aches. I have to say though that it is all very worth it.

So Cayden is sitting in the back seat and says to me, "So mommy, can you sleep with me a little bit? Oh, and you can rub my back." Yes, he told me that I needed to give him a back rub, not asked.

I'm thinking to myself, Hey, I'm the one that could use a back massage. Where's the fairness in this?

So I said to him, "No, I think that you should give me a back massage."

He then says to me, "Okay. And then you can say to me, "Cayden, that's good, now its your turn." Talk about a little negotiator. I think I'm in for it.

I am always grateful for the opportunity to have a little down time Cayden him just before he sleeps. Usually we spend a few minutes revisiting his activities for the day and talking about what's coming up the next. It is time well spent and something I will forever treasure.

Four-Eyes

2009-05-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

You know it's time for new glasses when they start to look like this...

You know your frugal when your glasses frame are actually worn so thin that they break, your lens falls out, and you have to tape your glasses together just to see.
Its only been eight years since I last purchased my glasses. They did look a bit worn out if you got close enough to see. I think that over the years I managed to chip a little paint here and a little paint there. They probably didn't even really sit well on my face any longer.
The time had come that I longer could postpone a shopping trip to the nearest EyeWear shop. I trusted the shopkeepers two thumbs up on the fourth pair I tried on. They were a little trendier than I would typically choose but I decided to take a step on the trendy side and completed the sale.
Everywhere I went, people noticed my new glasses. I received nothing but compliments. That is until a certain person....
I was at work and my dad comes in. He looks at me and says nothing. I thought to myself, "Does he really not notice?" and proceeded to ask him how he liked my glasses. He says, "Well, I decided that it might be better to not say anything. But, since youv'e asked, I think they look like horse blinders."

How's that for honesty?
Oh well. I consider the source. I think that deep down he's a little jealous that he doesn't dare to be so trendy!

And the verdict is in, I LOVE my new glasses!

Has It Really Been Two Weeks?

2009-05-26T21:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it has been two weeks since my last little rambling! So much has happened over the last little while since that super relaxing pajama Tuesday.
We took our first long road trip with Cayden to Calgary, Alberta. It was a whirlwind weekend trip that served no purpose other than just to hang out with some of Jeremy's extended family.
Jeremy's pre-trip project was to make sure that Cayden had all the comforts of home with him in the back-seat of the car. Our hopes were that if Cayden had a comfortable trip, we would all be able to keep our sanity. Jeremy made a custom console that would hold sippy cups, dvd player, crayons and cars.
We left fairly early Friday morning. We made it to Hope, only 1/20th of the way, and of course Cayden was already asking, "Are we there yet?" Oh, boy. Were we in for a trip!
We finally made it to Calgary with our sanity intact. Cayden only slept 1 hour of the whole trip and asked us "When we were going to be there?" more times than I could count.
We met cousins, Aunts and Uncles. Spent an afternoon at a cottage, an afternoon at a lake, and had a fantastic trip just re-acquaintancing ourselves with some great people.
It was time to leave on Monday morning. Cayden had a difficult time leaving after he bonded with his little cousins. We said our goodbyes, with promises of making another trip out next year. I think that Cayden understood a little better what "A long Way" meant. He was a much better little traveler on the way home.
Our trip to Calgary was a weekend well-spent. I look forward to doing it all over again next year.

Jeremy and Aunt Joan catching a ride on the back of a golf cart.
Cayden, Skyler, Dakota and Devin

Zonked out finally!

Cayden's little corner in the back seat of the car.

Cayden focusing on his movie, "All Dogs Go To Heaven". The best 1 1/2 hours of the drive!

Pajama Tuesday

2009-05-12T21:36:00.000-07:00

After last nights Canucks game I entered a state of misery. A feeling of emptiness. The deep sadness that I wouldn't have a Canucks hockey game to watch for a whole four months. Oh, whoa is me, a true Canucks hockey fan. A fan that rode the fan wagon and never got off whether they were playin losing or winning.
So, today I couldn't bring myself to get out of my pajamas. You might have seen Cayden and I traveling through town this morning still in our pajamas. Yep, you read it right, we drove around town in our pajamas and slippers. This morning we had no choice but to drag ourselves out of the house to deliver Ivan to his school . We hit the Tim Hortons Drive Thru for our morning coffee and hot chocolate and headed back home. Around noon I had to face the inevitable; time to pick ourselves up, fix our hair and clothes and head out to face the world.
It's very rare to have such a low key day. But I sure do love them. The real fact is that it I really am not so miserable because of the Canucks elimination, although I am a little sad, I just enjoyed using that as an excuse to stay home all morning and meander through the house doing a few household chores. I'm looking forward to the next chance to do this again. It sure is relaxing!

Relax and enjoy the day,

Michelle

Do You Have Ants In Your Pants?

2009-05-11T21:22:00.000-07:00

Cayden's Nana shared a conversation she had with Cayden when he had a sleepover this weekend. It was rather funny and also typical of him, as he always trying to make people laugh. Cayden and Jeremy's mom went out to dinner together. After a little while it was evident that Cayden was having problems sitting still. Jeremy's mom asked Cayden if he had "Ants in his pants." His quick response was, "Yep, I do have ants in my pants."

Cayden then said, "I have spiders in my pants too!" Jeremy's mom pretended shock and asked him what spiders and ants were doing in his pants. He says, "Their tickling my butt!"

Cayden then proceeded to tell his Nana that not only did he have ants in his pants, spiders in his pants, he also had bees in his pants, and they were pinching his cheeks! What a funny child. I just love his sense of humour, no matter how silly the things he comes up with are. (Although, I must say he does sometimes go a little too far)

Happy Monday!

Lemonade For Sale

2009-05-07T23:06:00.001-07:00

Alright, so a person can't even take a picture of kids selling lemonade anymore? The radio news broadcasted a story of a man attempting to take a picture of some children selling lemonade in Chilliwack. Innocent right?
Maybe five years ago it was alright. But it appears that we as a society fear that something bad could come out of something as innocent as strangers taking pictures of our children being little entrepreneurs. It makes me feel a little sad.
The story today was about some children selling lemonade. An adult man asked to take pictures of them with their stand. The children were cautious and went to get there parents because some stranger wanted to take pictures of them. By the time the adults came outside, the stranger had left. The parents reported the incident to the police. The police investigated. The man was tracked down. The man told his story. He was taking a photography class and thought a picture of children selling lemonade would make a great photo.
I have to agree, it would have been a great photo. A scene that has been photographed many times through history. Somehow things as innocent as taking photos of a great scene need to be contemplated rather than taken impulsively. I wish we could go back to the good ol' days when we didn't need to teach our children to be on such 'high alert'.

You Make Too Much Noise!

2009-05-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

So I caught the first two periods of the Canucks game tonight before I headed off to play soccer. Cayden's attention was not on the hockey game but his new prized possession, a Bakagon. When Kesler scored the first Canuck goal I could not help but yell at the top of my lungs, "Yes! Who Hoo!" Yes, I know, your surprised that I could actually yell. Most of you know me to be quiet and soft spoken. Well, Canucks goal scoring brings out another side of me. Go Canucks Go!

It was really funny, because my shout was so loud that Cayden jumped up, put his fingers in his ears, and with a look of anger on his face, said to me "Don't yell! You make too much noise!" If you know Cayden at all, you would know that he is almost always loud himself and I am often having to tell him to be quiet because he makes too much noise. I think that he was so focused on his toys that I caught him by surprise.

I'm looking forward to doing some more cheering on Thursday night when the Canucks face the Blackhawks for their foursth game of the series, and hopefully another win!

We Are The Champions!

2009-05-03T22:18:00.001-07:00

Women's hockey in Chilliwack is picking up steam. Last year was the first year Chilliwack introduced an all women's hockey league. It managed to enlist enough women to make three teams. This year, four teams were formed. I was asked to play for the Zoners. I met alot of great women and regained a love for the sport that I had stepped back from playing for the past five years. The Zoners finished top in Chilliwack and went on to play against against a top team in Burnaby 8 rinks to claim the championship for our division.

I packed five team-mates into my truck and took a road trip out to Burnaby. The trip was only 1 1/2 hours long but in that short time we learned more about each other than we had playing together all year.

We made it to the rink, got our gear on, put our game faces on and made our way onto the ice to face our challengers. The puck was dropped and the game was on. Eleven goals later the game was over. We had ten, they had one. As you can tell by the score, it was a very one-sided game. Because of the beating, the other team decided that they did not want to face us again. (We were to play against them one more time in the tournament) So, the season was officially over and we became the champions of the division.

Cheers to my team. Looking forward to getting together once again at the wrap-up party. And especially looking forward to another great season next year.

Just Like Riding A Bike

2009-05-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

My day started at the butt-crack of dawn at 4:00am today. I faced the day with excitement and even a tad bit of nervousness. I offered my services today to drive and operate an Express Blower for the enviro division of Denbow. You might wonder what exactly would cause me to feel a little nervous. Well, in the past year I have only actually driven truck one time. As well, I would have to guess that I haven't actually operated an Express Blower for over 5 years. I find that as I step back from doing the variety of work that I used to do, I'm losing some of the confidence I have in my own abilities.

I am pleased to announce that I still got "it"! I can still drive, and maintain safe driving habits. I even managed to run the remote control to offload the bark nuggets into the bio-filter we were filling. I tried to set off the over speed warning on our GPS units a few times, just to show my rebellious side, but the busy Canuck game traffic kept me at a top speed of only 118 kms per hour.

It was a good productive day. We managed to get off 650 yards of material with our three trucks and our tipper truck. I enjoyed working along-side the guys for a change rather than as Manager or Dispatcher. I'm looking forward to my next opportunity to work in the field.

Being re-loaded with our tipper trailer,
I have some great memories of days gone by driving this Peterbilt.

You'd almost thing we were city workers. One worker, two observers.

Bark Nuggets trucked in from Washington for this Bio-filter.

Yep, Big John and his cheesy grin. Just kidding John!

The Pacific Northwest According to Jeff Foxworthy

2009-05-01T21:01:00.000-07:00

I love the humor of Jeff Foxworthy. It is most often family friendly and absolutely hilarious. I was at the lab this week and while waiting found this posted on the wall. As you read it you, even as Canadians, you will be able to relate to many of the points if your living in B.C.

The Pacific Northwest According to Jeff Foxworthy
1. You know the state flower (Mildew)
2. You feel guilty throwing aluminum cans or paper in the trash.
3. Use the statement "sun break" and know what it means.
4. You know more than 10 ways to order coffee.
5 You know more people who own boats than air conditioners.
6. You feel overdressed wearing a suit to a nice restaurant.
7. You stand on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the "Walk" Signal.
8. You consider that if it has no snow or has not recently erupted, it is not a real mountain.
9. You can taste the difference between Starbucks, Seattle's Best, and Veneto's.
10. You know the difference between Chinook, Coho and Sockeye salmon.
11. You know how to pronounce Sequim, Puyallup, Issaquah, Oregon, Yakima and Willamette.
12. You consider swimming an indoor sport.
13. You can tell the difference between Japanese, Chinese and Thai food.
14. In winter, you go to work in the dark and come home in the dark - while only working eight-hour days.
15. You never go camping without waterproof matches and a poncho.
16. You are not fazed by "Today's forecast: showers followed by rain," and "Tomorrow's forecast: rain followed by showers."
17. You have no concept of humidity without precipitation
18. You know that Boring is a town in Oregon and not just a state of mind.
19. You can point to at least two volcanoes, even if you cannot see through the cloud cover.
20. You notice, "The mountain is out" when it is a pretty day and you can actually see it.
21. You put on your shorts when the temperature gets above 50, but still wear your hiking boots and parka.
22. You switch to your sandals when it gets about 60, but keep the socks on.
23. You have actually used your mountain bike on a mountain.
24. You think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists.
25. You buy new sunglasses every year, because you cannot find the old ones after such a long time.
26. You measure distance in hours.
27. You often switch from "heat" to "a/c" in the same day.
28. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit under a raincoat.
29. You know all the important seasons: Almost Winter, Winter, Still Raining (Spring), Road Construction (Summer), Deer &Elk season (Fall).
30. You actually understood these jokes and will probably forward them!