Midnight Musings

Photo-a-day #2

2012-01-07T23:13:00.000-08:00

Quality time with you daddy! You always ask if you cam play his eye pad, you crawl up on his lap and you both sit there playind drawing games and watching sesame street songs. What a sweet memory <3

Toe Dipping

2012-01-06T07:21:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to start blogging again for a while. It seems life is pretty busy lately BUT I do want to get back at er'! So I am starting with a photo-a-day project. I will attempt to post a photo a day { I did say attempt } some days I may not post but then the next day you may be treated with two photo's!
Anyway I am finding it hard to find some peace at the moment to write more as the kids are trying to get ready for school and I'm their teacher! :O) Gotta run and tame the beasts right now! LOL

We had strict rules set out regarding this dog. No dogs on the couch, no feeding scraps to the dog and finally NO dogs on the bed!!

This is how you normally look when I come in to wake you up in the mornings, you and your dog! Both sleepy heads with bed head, so sweet! You love your puppy so much and he loves sleeping with you Noah!

Fluffing Your Breasts 101

2010-12-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

A little birdie whispered in my husbands ear about a specialty bra fitting store in our neck of the woods ( ok, the little birdie was me). So after a super LONG week with the kids, Jay was working like 15 days in a row and I was completely fed up with the children, he told me he had set up an appointment for me to go and get the girls "fluffed"
We all know after each and everyone of our beautiful offspring have breastfed, tugging and gnawing at our once perky assets, that along with such a vicious beating and gravity, that things aren't so great anymore. I have had the same ONE bra for a few years now. It was a $20 Walmart bra and it's a bit worn out, didn't really fit like it should. So off I went, more excited to be away from the house then the actual fitting.
I was escorted to a change room, told to take off my shirt so I could be measured.
Now I have to admit once she told me my actual size my mouth hung open for about 15 seconds. Let's just say I was WAY out of touch with my actual size.
So after the measurements she brought me a few bra's to try on. When I had the new bra on I first noticed the remarkable lift. The girl's were back up where they used to be oh, so long ago.. (sigh) Then the fluffing instructions were given.
"Start at your armpit and pull your breast into the bra, then separate the breasts so the under wire is sitting against your skin between your breasts." So after many try on's and many fluffs I found the perfect, basic bra.
After finally having a bra that does what it should I can't go back to the old Walmart bra ever again. I encourage you all to go get fitted and fluffed and let's take back our perkiness. It's not just for the 20 year old you know!!! HA HA

Doctor's Orders

2010-11-17T12:01:00.000-08:00

Usually at this time of the day I am sitting back with a cup of heavily creamed coffee, putting up my feet and relaxing until the baby wakes up. This is a part of the day I look forward to the most, dog is lightly snoring in his crate, all is silent. The only sound I hear is the incessant hammering and jigsawing coming from the soon to be built house next door.
You know I was told about 3 months ago that this house would be up in a few weeks and all the NOISE would end, yeah right!!! Anyway that is another topic, back to coffee.
I have finally admitted I have a problem with coffee creamer. I am sure I have added a "few" extra pounds to my weight with creamer along. So I had a idea, reduce the cream, that seemed simple enough. Why is it that coffee without incredible amounts of sugar and other edible oil additives tastes like burnt dirt? I can't do it, I NEED all that hydrogenated goodness so I can enjoy my afternoon alone mommy time and it goes without saying an addict, going cold turkey, has withdrawal and I hate that dang headache.
So after watching Dr.Oz one afternoon he talked about tea and all the health benefits, and I thought, OK I'll give it a try. I have been drinking it for about a week now and I actually enjoy it. I was drinking green tea for the first while and I never got the headache, yahoo!!
So with my new found love for tea I am hoping the extra pounds I have poured on will soon melt away.... Ah if only it were that easy.

Clucking Hens

2010-11-15T21:34:00.000-08:00

I was pretty excited about going out with the girl's, girl's I haven't seen in about 15 years. These were friends of mine from another lifetime, a time when life seemed pretty simple, my beliefs were in tact and I was confident in who I was and where I was going.
As each person arrived we greeted each other with a hug, telling the other how good they looked and how good it was to see them again. We sat down, I had the wine list in front of me, really looking forward to a drink but not really knowing if it would offend someone so I hesitated and just ordered water for the time being.
We went around the table, each of us telling what we've done with ourselves over the last 15 years. Dating, marriage, babies, and adventures of travel and work.
I was really hoping the subject of church and religious views wouldn't come up. I didn't want the atmosphere to change, because I knew it would if anyone questioned me directly. Well sure enough the question came and sure enough the atmosphere changed.
I tried to be careful what I said, being very casual in my response. In doing so I'm sure I sounded worse off then if I would have gone into the how's and why's of my beliefs. Belief's that have changed since we all knew each other so long ago. I suppose what really got under my skin, once I had time to reflect on the conversation, was it starting out with the statement, " I've heard rumours...." After that came the same statements and questions that I have with anyone with whom I share my beliefs with. You know I don't mind the conversation I think I just didn't want it to become a point with people I haven't spoken to in over 15 years.
After spending over 10 minutes talking about this I tried to change the subject and was successful, but not before I saw the eye brows raise and jaw drop reaction to some things I said. And to top it off what the statement, " well that's interesting..." Needless to say I knew I had probably offended so I ordered a Bloody Marie and enjoyed each vodka filled mouthful. ( is that spiteful??) LOL
I have been somewhat irritated for the past few days about this. I vented to my husband saying to him, " why would you ask someone their religious views in a public setting, especially when you haven't spoken in over a decade?" He objectively said it was a bit understandable, they are curious, they've heard rumours, etc.
Why was this bothering me so much. I felt judged big time. I felt like I didn't have the time to properly explain, I felt kind of interrogated.
I think what really bothered me is that my family is being discussed among my childhood friends. People are talking about us, why does that bother me?? These people haven't been a part of my life in so long, why is this bothering me?
I am sure I am being overly sensitive about it, right?

Where to start...?

2010-10-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

I've got my coffee right beside me, Samara is content and here I sit not really knowing where to even start. It has been so long since I've written anything, I have all the same excuses that everyone uses when they neglect something. Life is busy, stressful, kids things and just plain laziness.
Because it has been such long time I will just catch you up on what has happened.
- we moved at the end of August back to the same area we were in before.
- we opened a pharmacy
- Grandmother passed away from cancer
- kids started a new school
- we got a 'forever' puppy only to find out after 3 weeks of bonding that my oldest son appears to be allergic to dogs.
Well that pretty much catches you up on what's been going on with us. I am going to try this blogging thing again because I really enjoy writing it and I love hearing back from you all.

Fair Weather Blogger.... sorry

2010-06-16T10:04:00.000-07:00

It has been so long since I last posted. I still come by every so often and must admit I am getting tired of seeing the same old post. I do have some legit reasons WHY I haven't been posting. Our little laptop, which was less then a year old, bit the dust SO if I want to write I have to come ALL the way down to the basement and for some reason my creative juices refuse to leave the main floor.
Life is busy and for the past while a true roller coaster. A close family member has been diagnosed with Leukemia a few months ago which has been really sad and scary. Since then he has been in the hospital a few times with complications, Jay (my hubby) has been giving advice and doing research on the drugs that are being administered.
Our house is STILL on the market, we have a conditional offer on it meaning they have to sell their house in order to buy ours. We are thankful there is an offer and pray for a quick sale to come about because we need to move by August. (AUGH!)
We have officially purchased a pharmacy back in our home city which we are happy about, our children will be close to grandparents, cousins and old friends so we are anxious to get this show on the road.
Today I am off the the natural health food store to purchase some essential oils, I am planning on making my own bug repellent. All the mosquito's in the world have decided to camp out in MY backyard. I HATE having to use deet on my children so they can go outside and enjoy the few warm sunny days we have. I'll let you know how my concoction works!!
Hope all your summers are going well so far!

2010-04-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

My blogging has truly fell to the waste side hasn't it? I can't use the excuse that nothing is really going on so I have nothing new to really say. Maybe what may be more appropriate to write is nothing new is going on and yet everything is happening and I don't know where to start.
My life is pretty chaotic right now. No, it's not the kids, I would welcome normal chaotic anytime right now.
Time is ticking, and we are at a standstill, ENOUGH of the dramatic one liners.... what in the world is going on with you???
House is up for sale- keeping a spotless house is exhausting and I feel so lazy even writing this, I hope you ladies know what I mean. A tidy house I am all for, a spotless house is for the birds. I won't let the kids eat in the house for snacks, every morning I go from room to room making it look like we don't really live here.
Taps wiped down, every piece of laminate is swept, dished done and kitchen sparkling before 10am. Having to have your home ready and available for viewing anytime is brutal.
The other morning I took all three kids to the dentist, arrived back home just before 11am. Made Noah a lunch, rushed him to school, came back gave Samara a bottle for her nap, just sat down for a cup of Joe when the phone rings. Of course I can't find the phone because it's cordless and it's hidden in the toy box. Well guess who it was our realtor who left a message telling me she would be bringing people by in less then 1/2 hour. I honestly threw up in my mouth a little. (this isn't happening...) Luckily my husband got a hold of her and said it wouldn't be available for a few hours. My house was a mess, it gets messy so quickly and my whole morning was spent out of the house... anyway that is some of the chaos I am talking about.
We have been working on buying our own pharmacy. I am NOT cut for these kind of negotiations, for the emotional roller coaster that this whole experience has brought to our life.
One day it looks like a sure thing, maybe the next day (who am I kidding it has changed hourly sometimes) everything has changed. It's draining. We are impatient with the children. We are stressed, we don't have a clue where we are going to move to this summer. We aren't sleeping much...blah, blah you all get the picture. I'm venting....
So with all this going on my mind has been other places. Once things become normal again in my life I am hoping to get back to blogging more. I am keeping up with all of you though, I ready your blogs I just don't always comment.
Hope your Spring is going well.....

2010-03-24T08:09:00.000-07:00

It takes a village to raise a child? I've seen this village and I DO not want it raising my child.
Whenever I've read people's reasons for homeschooling I always would read these stories of young school aged children being abused at school. The stories would anger me and I always said if I saw these things happening to my child I would take action and probably home school.
I have blogged about this 'friend' of my son's before. I know I can be an overprotective parent and I don't think that's a bad thing. I didn't want to over react to a few incidents, I believe in second chances, I know they are boys with energy and we all know boys do stupid things sometimes. I made the decision to keep abreast of their relationship and I asked Noah about it from time to time.
Yesterday my son came home from school with a big scratch starting just below his eye to just above his mouth. He told me his friend Carson did it. He said Carson thought he tripped a friend of his, which Noah denies, and Carson came up, grabbed him around the waist and used a sharp rock to scratch him.
Through more conversations with Noah yesterday he told me all these stories of how he gets tackled by this boy, how this boy is almost controlling him at recess. We are meeting with the principal today to talk about it.
I go through these arguments in my head. Should I pull him and home school him. I want him to learn how to handle conflict. He's not mature enough to handle this conflict, he needs our help and protection. On and on it goes....
I want to give the school a chance to handle it, Noah enjoys his other classmates, and there is only 3 months left. He is already so lonely and bored in this town that I don't want to uproot him. Any words of advice from my friends??

2010-03-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

Cookies are baking in the oven, the bread maker is doing it's thing. I have 3 sleepy kids all tucked in their beds, my feet are up and I decided I had better write something so y'all know I'm still around.

It's coming up spring soon (thank God!) so it's time to get this house ready for selling. It doesn't feel like we are even close. Baseboards are lining my dining room. Paint cans fill my bathrooms and tile is half done. Life is a bit chaotic but we are muddling through. The house is starting to look pretty good, I almost want to have a chance to live in it more now.

The kiddo's are sick this week. Jake has strep, Samara has croup and possibly strep, so most of my days consist of snuggling with Jake on the couch as he watches his favorite video. I have been trying to take Samara outside to clear her throat, poor girl. They are on the mend so life is getting back to normal.
I had a root canal last week, it wasn't as bad as I thought until I went to pay for it. $860.00 WHAT?!?! When I arrived home I told my hubby that he went into the wrong profession. Honestly almost $900 for one tooth.... obviously NOT regulated by the government.

I have been online quite a bit (shocking I know) I have been surfing blogs people, and boy there are some really interesting people out there. I have come across a really great blog about cooking. The pictures are beautiful, I swear I gain weight just looking at her photo's. When I looked at her profile I found out she's a high school girl who loves to cook and want to go to Culinary school upon graduation. Pretty interesting! I love getting a peak into people's lives through their blogs. Maybe I'll blog about my travels within the blog world and let you know my fav's.
Well I'm off for now....

Catch Up!

2010-02-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

My bed's made - X
Bathrooms are tidied - X
Laundry gathered for washing - X
Worked out - ??
Dishes are done, dining room tidy - X
I'm dressed - X
Teeth brushed - x

Well I am doing pretty good so far. I should have done my work out but it's hard for me to do it when the house is begging me to be clean. Oh well, I will get to it. I realize that I spend W.A.Y too much time playing on the Internet so I am trying to discipline myself to have certain things completed before I can have some time to myself surfing the beautiful web.
My husband was in Cancun this past week for business, I was NOT allowed to come some crazy company policy they have. When I heard his itinerary I see why family can't go, there is no free time until night when everyone parties and so forth so family time would be me alone with the kids minus $10,000 for travel expenses. We stayed home.
At first I was really nervous about him leaving for 6 days. I don't sleep well when he's not here. You know all those bumps in the night, well I hear everyone of them. I have to say we did alright though. I was a little teary when he walked out the door but within minutes told myself to buck up and get moving. I intentionally made the week a busy one so it would go by quickly. We had play dates for the kids and for me, guitar lessons, Awana club for the kids, haircuts, etc. The week went by pretty quick for us and for that I am grateful!
I turned 35 years old this past week. Augh!! I still feel like I'm 25 minus the girls being more perky and few other things I won't go into details on, but you ladies KNOW what I am talking about. I'm not one for New Year's resolutions I kind of make mine around my birthday so I am still thinking of what I want to see happen for myself this year. I have a few things in mind but of course some depend on where we will be living, and you all know I don't know where that will be.
Gifts? my absent, yet thoughtful husband had flowers delivered to me on my birthday. Aren't they lovely??

Here's a close up, because I LOVE close ups!

Once he made it home I received the 2nd part of my gift. I am a sucker for silver jewelery so after hinting for the better part of the week with him over texts and phone calls about how much I would LOVE some new *bling* he listened!!

This pendant is my favorite!! Good eye Jay!!

I Gotta Feeling...

2010-02-02T19:48:00.000-08:00

Pretty Impressive!

Kindness of Strangers

2010-01-31T19:36:00.000-08:00

It was one of those day when the weight of being here, feeling isolated and lonely was hitting me hard. Probably because I haven't really seen my husband in the past two weeks due to a heavy work load coupled with facing another L.O.N.G week without him it all just got to me.
I was feeling overwhelmed with the kids, needing someone to talk to since I haven't seen another adult in days and not really knowing anyone I could call. So it was a bad day. To top it off due to my lack of being on top of things I mistakenly took my son to a birthday party at the bowling alley only to find out no one was there because it was the previous day was the icing on the cake. It's been a rough few days needless to say.
Having a very disappointed boy on my hands I went into the house to contact the parents of the birthday boy to apologise for my scattered brain and to ask if we could drop off the gift. We bundled up into the car and headed off.
Isabel, the birthday boys mom, was wonderful. Upon arriving she invited us in for fresh baked cookies. She was extremely warm and engaging. We ended up having a wonderful visit, she invited us to stay for supper with her family and asked if I would like to get together for a visit later in the week.
God sure knows what we need, I won't forget how welcoming this dear lady was and I won't forget how she lifted my spirits and made me feel like I could face going back home to an empty house ( just me and the kids) and finish off another night alone.

"Today, give a stranger one of your smiles. It might be the only sunshine he sees all day." ~Quoted in P.S. I Love You, compiled by H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2010-01-27T22:34:00.000-08:00

A few products that I am loving and I thought I would share.

Ella's Botanicals Bottom's Up

This baby bottom cream is so nice. It has no parabens, perfumes or SLS. It smells delicious and can be used for more then just baby's bottoms. Love, Love this stuff!

Organic Surge

This lotion is really nice and has done a great job on healing my dry, rough, cracked feet. This company has a real heart for Africa and donates time, energy and resources to aid the people there.

Bio Life Tub n' Tile

This tub and tile cleaner smells so fresh and the best part is I don't get a headache from it. It's bio degradable and so it's a good choice for the earth.

Dr. Brommer's Castille Soap

Castille soap how I love thee. I bought my first bottle from the health food store 1 year ago for $19 and I still have 1/4 of the bottle left. At first I used it on the boys for bath time as a soap and shampoo. I now use it to make my own baby wipes. It's more cost efficient, no parabens or harsh chemicals touch your baby's skin with these homemade wipes. Here's the recipe and by the way they make wonderful travel wipes for the family.

Homemade Wipes
2 cups H2O
1/16 c of organic olive oil
1/16 c of castille soap ( I use the almond scented one.... SOOOOO good!!)
2 drops of tea tree oil (which has anti fungal, antiseptic activity to it)

Mix it all together, cut and fold paper towel to the length you want, fold them to fit in the plastic container you choose and add the amount of liquid you desire. Note: if you make too many wipes and they aren't used they will become musty. I make enough for about 5 days at a time.

Well my eyes are getting droopy.. time to call it a night. I could go on a bit more, maybe another day. To be continued, well maybe. I'd love to hear about a few of your favorite things!

Shout Out!!

2010-01-27T08:14:00.000-08:00

I happened upon a wonderful blog that I want to share with you all. This lady writes beautifully and honestly challenges me and inspires me to do better. If you have the chance check her out at www.blueyonderranch.com

Rootbeer floats/Power outages/Blizzard of 2010

2010-01-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

Noah came home from school and said he wanted to make rootbeer floats for dessert tonight. So being the good mommy I am I bought the delicious ingredients and we went at if after Shabbat supper on Friday night.

Too bad daddy was working because they were foamy and delicious. I even spooned some of the foam and gave it to Samara. I suppose the fact that she clapped and kept opening her mouth for more indicated she too enjoyed the frothy goodness.

This brought back memories for me of being a kid and making these yummy floats. It was nice to share it with my kids.

It started on Friday night and didn't stop until Monday afternoon. The blizzard of 2010 hit and hit hard. Due to the gusting winds and cold temps my kids were pretty much trapped in the house for 3 days. They were going crazy and taking me along for the ride. Saturday night I decided enough is enough, we were going to McD's playland for a treat and to burn off all the energy.
Because of the weather we were the only ones in the restaurant. The kids were having a great time until the lights in the city went out. I was a bit nervous being in the restaurant alone with the kids, thank goodness I had my cell phone, I used it for light so we could gather our things and leave.
Well when the power goes out, out goes the furnace. It was chilly when we got home. Jay had candles going and blankets ready. Thankfully it only lasted about an hour. Unfortunately it happened again the next night.
As you can imagine will all the snow came tons of shoveling and snow fort building.

Can you believe we were grilling a few weeks ago, barely any snow. I was taking the baby out for walks in a sweater. Today I can barely open my door without snow drifts filling my boots. The kids are loving it though, and if it gets them outside and playing I suppose I can't help but love it too!

Bohemian Rhapsody

2010-01-25T21:07:00.000-08:00

This is what I am calling this template. My dear sweet husband picked it. I gave him carte blanche to chose whatever he wanted and I promised to give it a fair chance. I actually really like it, it's funny I have paged past this template countless times and never thought to use it. But now that it's on (sorta speak) I like it.
It reminds me of when I was picking out my wedding dress. I saw a picture of it and thought nothing of it. I actually didn't like it until I tried it on and once I did I chose it.
So here's to giving up some control and liking it. Thanks Babe!

ENOUGH

2010-01-19T18:42:00.001-08:00

I have tried but I can't do it anymore. I love this template but my eyes are buggy for about 10 minutes after I am done reading the thing. I have to say so long to this beautiful template. Sorry if it's been hard on your eyes as well.

This and That

2010-01-19T08:25:00.000-08:00

Home reno's have been my life for the past month or so. It's true what they say, you start and it just balloon's out of control. If you replace the baseboards you have to paint the closet doors and window frames, right? Once you start painting one room you MUST do the other's so they look fresh and bright too, well don't you? This is the conversations my hubby and I share quite often.
I use to think I would enjoy and old character home with all the charm and architecture BUT I don't really enjoy all the reno's so I think a new home made to look like an old craftsman home is definately what I need.
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Transition is the name of the game for us right now. My husband's contract is coming to an end and so is our time here. I can't say I am really sorry to leave, as you all know, but where are we going?? Now that is the question. Due to all this indecision things here are a bit stressful. And of course when things aren't going great the little darlings sure pick up on it and just seem to add to the frustration-poor things.
We are trying to keep schedules the same amidst all the reno's personal stress, and decluttering and packing that is going on. The kids know a move is on the horizon but due to their limited ability to comprehend a month away or so, it seems to them like this is just dragging on and on.....
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My little baby girl has decided she is done nursing. Every time one of the kids have weaned themselves it made me sad. Especially with her because she isn't even a year yet, and she is my last baby so I'm a bit sad.
One night just after her first tooth came in she chomped down on me. I didn't yell out or anything just kind of jumped, well that was enough for her, she howled for about 10 minutes. The next night it happened again and I tried to gently pry her off, well again it sent her into hysterics and that was the last time she nursed. Yes, she is sensitive.
On the up side I have more independence which means I can leave the house for more then an hour without high tailing it back home to make sure she's all right.

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The post is disjointed, sorry about that. I can't seem to string along a coherent thought. This is just a bit of why I haven't been blogging much lately, I am hoping things settle down soon so life can feel calm again.

Spring 2010

2010-01-11T08:10:00.000-08:00

" I hate going to school, it's so boring, all we do is sit in our desks, I'm not going."
Those are the words that come out of my 8 year olds mouth almost every morning. These words are followed by tears, and frustration. I, in turn get frustrated because I have to convince, motivate and then threaten, this child to get going so we won't be late. It's not a pretty picture most mornings...
This past year at school has been a rough one. I have received many calls from school about his behavior, he's been disruptive, he's been teasing some of the kids, and he can't seem to sit still.
No one wants to receive these kind of phone calls. I have reminded him almost every morning I drop him off at school to be kind, listen to the teachers, and it seems it's fallen on deaf ears.
After one of the phone calls from school regarding an incident on the playground I tried again to talk to him about what was going on. He said he is tired of always being the one to get into trouble. He again stated that he is very bored at school. I asked him what he was learning in math, he said counting by 2's and 5's. He said mom you know I learned that in Montessori years ago, he then went on to tell me it's too easy and you know I don't like things that are too easy.
At the parent teacher interview I was asked what I thought of his report card, I told then I was a bit disappointed because I know that Noah can do better. The teacher went on to tell me that at this point in the school year all the kids in the class get the exact same grading! WHAT?!?!
Noah was enrolled in Montessori for about 3 years before attending public school. He loved it there. The ability to focus and work on what interested him. To freely move about the classroom, to work with whatever friend he wished, tons of manipulative's to encourage learning. He had glowing progress reports and seemed very content.
I am very concerned about him. I don't tolerate bad behavior, nor am I trying to excuse it away by saying that he is bored. Acting respectfully, being kind, in my mind isn't an option. He is only 8 years old, and maybe he can't really put words to how he's feeling.... Oh, I don't know....

A little background:

My husband was one of those who excelled at school, he too struggled with boredom at school. I have heard countless stories from my mother -in law about how she had to make countless trips to the Principal's office to hear how Jay was acting up at school, tripping kids as they walked by his desk, etc.
It wasn't until one teacher pulled him out of class, put a camera in his hands that his behavior started changing. The school made a developing room for him, taught him how to use the chemicals and he started developing his own photo's.

Anyway through all this jumbled rambling what I am trying to say is we are looking at alternatives forms of education for our kids. Homeschooling has come up many a time and I think we will go ahead with it right after the move this spring. I feel a level of excitement and a level of dread all at the same time. I really believe in homeschooling and all the benefits it has. I have found great curriculum's that involve lot's of projects and hands on materials.
The city we are looking at moving to has a strong homeschooling community. The local university has afternoon science clubs just for homeschoolers and many of the parents have get together's for their kids.
We have informed the children about this, Noah especially is so excited.
I received another phone call from the school the other week. His teacher was calling to inform me that Noah is doing so much better. I told her some things we were doing at home to help keep him stimulated and busy. She then went on to tell me about a conversation she had with Noah a few weeks ago. She said he told her he was afraid of moving, and he felt nervous. She then said she asked him again the other day how he was feeling about the move and this time he told her he was really excited because he was going to be homeschooled.
That made me feel really good. I know there will be good days, bad days and lots of growing pains, but I feel it's a gift that I can give to them.

2010-01-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

1) What is in front of you right now?
The Dog Whisperer is on TV, an empty bowl of yogurt and water cup are in my line of vision.

2) What are you wearing?
A purple v-neck t-shirt and yoga pants, both stained with paint because I am in the middle of home reno's.

3) What is on your mind?
Husband is out of town with the two boys, he has a very important meeting that he is in right now. I am missing him and the kids yet enjoying some time alone with Samara. I am also wondering what other home reno projects I should try to get done before the night comes to an end.

4) The last person you texted, and what did you text?
I sent my husband a warning that the police had a speed trap set up right out of the city he was traveling to.

5) Anything new on the horizon?
We are moving by this spring at the very latest. Our time here in this city was always meant to me short lived so the hunt is on for a new place to live and work.

6) Best vacation so far?
I have to say Carmel Beach in the Shuswap. Although the drive there was super scary I miss it alot. Wineries, organic farmer's markets, all the water and mountains.... (sigh) I need to go back.

7) A sad thing?
My baby girl has completely stopped nursing. She's only 9 months old, and I wanted to go at least a year.

8) Future plans?
Well there is the move, we are really thinking about homeschooling our kiddo's. I have tried contacting the montessori schools where we might be moving and not many of them go past grade 4, plus the expense is a small fortune.

9) Something funny?
My mom was holding Samara the other day, she had her across her chest, looked like I do when I am nursing her. Anyway Jacob looked at me and asked if grandma was nursing the baby. I told him no and he said well that's good because I've never seen an old lady's boob's before..... (yikes)

10) One new year's resolution?
I hate making them so I don't have one BUT I did happen to go clothes shopping on Jan/01/10 that being said I realize yet again my weight has to drop... NOW!

New Year New Look

2010-01-06T19:28:00.000-08:00

Yes it was time to update the old girl. I always find it a little daunting to look for a new template. I want the new look to reflect who I am and all that so I page through hundreds of templates in the hopes of finding the perfect one.
When I saw this beauty I had to have it! Props to my darling husband for helping me figure out how to download and install this beauty.
It is still under construction, I have to figure out how to add all the new widgets and how to restore the old ones.
Anyway Happy New Year's to all my readers!!!

Something Beautiful

2009-12-27T15:19:00.000-08:00

Where has my baby gone???

2009-12-14T21:14:00.000-08:00

It feels like it's gone by in the blink of an eye. She is no longer that curled up little newborn with the bobbing head who slept 15 hours a day. Now my little girl likes to be free to crawl around the room, pulls herself up to standing position. I see her flirty smile come across her face when her daddy or brothers come into the room. She is clapping her hands, she sings, she babbles and she melts my heart hourly.
I get a few glimpses of that tiny baby when I am about to lay her down for her nap, she snuggles in and starts sucking on her lips.........so sweet! These past 8 months have flown by but I've enjoyed every minute of it.

A season for everything

2009-12-14T20:33:00.000-08:00

I can almost pinpoint when I think this started. My high standards for myself and my family started to slip. I became alright with the status quo, I started letting my expectations slide, my ideals and beliefs became blurred with each passing bad decision I made.
We moved to our current location almost 2 years ago. This place was never really a choice for us but more of an obligation that we had to fulfill. We never purposed for it to be more then 2 years and I suppose the moment we stepped foot here I started the countdown to when we'd leave. Not smart.
It's been in the last few months that my husband and I have started to reflect on our present situation and realized we really dropped the ball here. We have a bunch of excuses as to why we let our kids spend ungodly amounts of time playing video games and watching TV-something we NEVER condoned before. We have tons of excuses as to why our health and well being have gotten out of control, we have excuses for everything and in the end we are left with the results of our excuses and it stinks.
I am happy to say my husband is a man of action and he talked me straight and continues to talk to me, to shake me out of the lull I find myself in. He has high goals for our family, for our relationship as man and wife, and for his kids. He is inspiring me to find that quest for excellence once again. Some days it's overwhelming because every area of our lives and family life needs an overhaul, and that's ok.... baby steps,right?
So this week I have set strict limits on TV and video games, we also have been turning off the TV, and I have noticed my children get along better when they aren't glued to it. There are other things we are doing, some I may blog about later once a final decision has been made. I don't want to be all manic about this, I don't want this to be the new 'thing' we are doing.....
We want the best for our family, especially our children, so we press on because they ARE worth it!!

2009-12-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

I have been looking for this song for YEARS!! Many a time the lyrics would jump into my head, I would try to google it, or youtube it and nothing would pop up. I suppose actually remembering the correct lyrics would have helped.. :O)
Anyway last night I was trying again and somehow I actually found it. This is what the song is about:

Elya was a school teacher in Russia, and as such, she had the children of Christians in her class, some who were in prison for their faith. As a teacher, she was supposed to discriminate against those children by withholding certain aspects of their education from them. Elya went on teaching them anyway, and was arrested and imprisoned for three years herself. (I think it was three years.) What an inspiration she has been to so many because of her courage and willingness to suffer for what is right in the eyes of God. She eventually was deported to Germany along with her whole family, some of whom had also been imprisoned at different times. We were able to meet she and her husband, along with her parents and her young children on one occasion while we were in Europe. That was a long time ago and, unfortunately, I do no have any contact information. The whole family was very humble and gracious. (Next to them, our relationship to Jesus and regard for God's word seemed very casual!) They stood while praying for the meal and the reading of the Bible beforehand. They had suffered much for the privilege of doing so and greatly valued the freedom to pray without fear.
This song really impacted me when i first heard it, I was a very young girl at the time but I honestly believe it was a catalyst for me going into short term missions.
Anyway, this song has sweet memories for me so I thought I would share it. Remember this song was recorded in the early 1980's so it's dated, but the words and the story are still as powerful today as they were then. Enjoy!

"Poor people with low morals... but no offense."

2009-11-27T19:05:00.000-08:00

I am trying not to let the angry Momma bear come out, I am trying to remain objective and level headed... I'm trying. Here's what happened...
My son has finally made a friend with a boy who lives not too far from our house. This little boy has been to our home, our son has been there and I never noticed anything out of the ordinary.
The other day my son came home from his friend's house and admitted to breaking a few beer bottles at their house. He said his friend said that there was gold at the bottom of the bottle so they went ahead and smashed the bottles. Well we gave him an ear full, told him about making good choices, etc, etc...
We ended up calling the other family to assess the damage and were informed that it was a 18 pak of unopened beer bottles. The boys were smashing them against the side of the house..... all 18 beer!!
The mother of this boy went on to say how her son is attracted to kids from poor families where there are poor morals. She said he likes to be around wild kids, but no offense. I think I have just been insulted on a few levels here.... yes I am offended!!
Anyway my husband tried to keep me on track, keep me focused on the fact that our son needs to take responsibility for his actions, so we headed to the liquor store for a gift certificate, and then to his friends house to issue an apology. My little guy did great, looked the adults in the eye and apologised for destroying someone else's property and for the extra work he caused when they had to clean it up. He handed over the booze card and we left.
Not bad for a boy from a poor family with low morals....

Funny Friday

2009-11-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

Jacob came up to me and hugged me the other day, he then grabbed my tummy and said, " oh, I love this belly, it's so scrumptious, it reminds me of play dough." What can I say....???

Jacob

2009-11-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

Today my littlest man is 6 years old. It's hard to believe it's been 6 years already. When I look at Jacob I now know what sweetness looks like in the flesh. My little boy, who really isn't so little anymore, has a heart that loves and accepts people just as they are. He loves doing things for the people he loves. If daddy has a headache Jacob gets a cold cloth and turns all the lights off so daddy will feel better. When I was pregnant with Samara he would massage my back and help me put my socks and shoes on. He offers to change Samara's diaper and does all he can to make her laugh. His older brother means the world to him, even when they fight he is so concerned that Noah and him make peace before bed and he drinks in any affection his brother will throw his way.He is a sensitive boy who thinks deep thoughts and has lots of questions about this world and why things happen.
Jacob loves with his whole heart and because he loves like this he also gets hurt very easily. He is a shy boy until you get to know him then his crazy, wacky, loving personality shines and he is a people magnet. This is a little boy who enjoys being silly and making people laugh. He strives for peace in a sometime chaotic house. His laughter fills our house on a daily basis, he is quick to forgive, quick to give hugs and kisses and always ready to tell you he loves you. This little boy stole my heart 6 years ago and he is treasured beyond words.
My biggest wish for him is that he continues to be his sweet little self. That the tenderness that is in his heart towards his family, friends and God will grow and mature. I also pray for wisdom for him as he navigates his way through this world, that he would be protected, guided and inspired to reach his full potential.
I love my Jacob. Happy Birthday to the sweetest 6 year old I know!

I couldn't help myself

2009-11-13T07:59:00.000-08:00

About a week ago my son came home from school to inform me his bike was taken. He had forgotten to lock it up so some hoodlum nabbed it.
Yesterday he came home to tell me he saw his bike at school at lunch recess and when he went to bring it home after school was out that it was gone, again. Well now I am on the look out, I thought maybe today I would head to his school at lunch and bring his bike home, I didn't want my 7 year old to have to tangle with a kid much older then him. So my plan was set and ready to go.
I was on my way to see the doc yesterday after I had spoken to my son about his bike. As I am driving away I notice a bunch of bikes laying on the front lawn of an apartment building. I notice a bike that looks like my sons, so I pull a fast u-turn and get out and look at the bike, sure enough it's Noah's bike. So I grab the bike, haul it to my mini van, throw it in the back and take off.
What a rush!!!! I mean honestly what was I supposed to do??

I'm no June Clever ( Cleaver) ... and I can't spell... LOL

2009-11-12T08:26:00.000-08:00

I can't get organized. I try, I really do, even my husband will say to me how I am always busy but not a whole lot gets done. Some days I honestly wonder if I have adult onset ADD. Well, maybe I am joking a bit about that but I know I am spinning my wheels in this house and I am frustrated by it.
I have a feeling of utter amazement and frustration when I go to some people's homes who have kids running all over the place and the house is tidy and organized. HOW DO YOU DO IT??!! So I am asking all you organized ladies, or men out there, please give me some tips that you have found have worked. I am a sponge WANTING some tips to maximize my time and efforts.
Looking forward to some great tips!!!

2009-11-06T08:25:00.000-08:00

I love this commercial....

In a Slump

2009-10-21T08:12:00.001-07:00

If there is one thing I dislike it's going to someone's blog page and seeing the same old post there time and time again. GUILTY I know I have lost my pull to blog, oh I have been here before and I figure if I make myself write something I will get on a roll and it will come easier.
So this is a random post about the little things I have been doing for the past month or so.
This past summer we traveled to B.C and took in all the the sights and tastes that it had to offer. We visited a winery, farmer's markets relaxed. It was a great vacation. We had other reasons for going, we are wanting to relocate and we've always wanted to see the Shuswap area, and it didn't disappoint.
Work on the house seems to be ongoing. We have done a lot on this house, new backyard, new furnace, new air conditioner, new water softener, new paint job, fixed concrete retaining wall. With all this we thought we had made a dent in the 'to do' list around here, it definitely made a dent in our bank account.
The other day I went downstairs to change laundry loads and the laundry room was full of water. After looking high and low I found out that the water heater was leaking. AUGH!!! another expense and sure enough it had to be replaced. If this wasn't bad enough a few days later my washing machine quits and has started leaking motor oil on my clothes..... ( Calgon take me away...)
Anway enough of that, it's giving me heart palpitations just looking at the list.
Let's continue shall we???
We never thought we would be staying on our little village longer then the contract demanded. So we made the tough call and told the head of the company that we would indeed want to leave when the contract comes due. So we have a rough date as to when we will be leaving. I am looking forward to that day, living here was pretty tough on us as a family, the scary part is knowing we have to leave by a certain point and we don't know where we are going to go. So many decisions to make..
Anyway that is a bit of what has been going on here.

Turn the BLEEPING cell phone off!!

2009-09-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

My thoughts are all over the map on this topic I am wanting to write about. I find there are so many situations rolling around in my brain that it's hard to make it all come together, so I apologise if it's a bit disjointed.
Without fail my husband will walk in the house after being at work all day and his phone goes off, another text. I find as times goes on, and this continues happening I am bothered at my very core.
We have had many and conversation about this, sometimes a heated one, that when he walks through the door I want his work day to be O.V.E.R. He works alot so when he's home I want him here, with us.
My husband is a business owner so the buck stops with him as he tells me often and I understand that. I have no issue with him being contacted if there is an emergency. As far as I know there has not been too many of those and yet the texting continues.
I often wonder if all this new technology is all it's cracked up to be. To be accessible whenever and where ever bothers me, alot. I often will ask my husband if a certain employee, who is quite text happy, would use a little more discretion if she had to contact him via telephone( yes, it's the odd looking thing with a cord attached to it) to relay her messages. It feels like any boundaries are blurred or not really in place.
If texting wasn't in place I know this employee would think twice before interrupting our time to contact my husband. Texting gives you full access into someone's time without having to justify the intrusion.
Funny as I read this I can tell from my own words how much I resent the intrusion, well I do damn it.. ( sorry J, he doesn't like me cussing)
In the end the power we have is to turn the freaking phone OFF when we walk in the door. Did you know that you can actually turn the phone off, you don't have to be accessible 24/7??
We have a friend who is anti- cell phone, facebook, etc.. Now this young buck isn't married, no kids, and is a student at university so his life is polar opposite of ours, but his motto is if you can't reach me at home then you can't and leave a message and I will call you back. ( sounds like my life a few years ago- ah , the good ole days)
Anyway I could go on some more but I've rambled enough. My parting words, boundaries people, BOUNDARIES!

100 Things

2009-08-20T13:26:00.001-07:00

I received this from a Facebook friend... so of course I had to do it also.

WHAT WAS YOUR:
1. Last beverage = coffee about 10am... I really need to remember to drink during the day
2. Last phone call =Jay
3. Last text message = Jay
4. Last song you listened to = They Don't Really Care About Us-Michael Jackson
5. Last time you cried = Today.. frustration with the kids...(sigh)
HAVE YOU EVER:
6. Dated someone twice = of course, haha!
7. Been cheated on =only once, he kissed another girl, I was 15... oh the drama
8. Kissed someone & regretted it = oh yeah
9. Lost someone special = yes
10. Been depressed = uh huh
11. Been drunk and threw up = I've never been drunk
LIST THREE FAVORITE COLORS:
12. Purple
13. Green
14. Yellow

THIS YEAR HAVE YOU: (2009)
15. Made a new friend =yes
16. Fallen out of love = no
17. Laughed until you cried =yes
18. Met someone who changed you = ...no?
19. Found out who your true friends were= I know who my true friends are!
20. Found out someone was talking about you = not to my knowledge.. yes I like my head buried in the sand.
21. Kissed anyone on your friend's list = my mom/dad, and husband
22. How many people on your friends list do you know in real life = all of them
23. How many kids do you want to have = 3 is all this lady can handle!!
24. Do you have any pets = nope.
25. Do you want to change your name = yes, i would love something exotic, fierce and sexy.. Cleopatra!!!
26. What did you do for your last birthday = went to a fancy steakhouse with my family and my folks. Received a kick ass camera to boot, it was a good night!
27. What time did you wake up today = 10am.. did I mention the baby was up nursing every 3 hours.... AUGH!
28. What were you doing at midnight last night = looking for a place to rent for a week in the Shuswap!! CAN'T WAIT!!
29. Name something you CANNOT wait for = school to start.. honestly our quality of life will improve for every member of our family.
30. Last time you saw your Mother = 2 weeks ago
31. What is one thing you wish you could change about your life? = wished we lived in a better place.
32. What are you listening to right now = the dishwasher running, honestly it's somewhat calming.
33. Have you ever talked to a person named Tom =yes, I used to go to church with a man named Tom.
34. What's getting on your nerves right now = clutter... to many toys around me. ( find a happy place...)
35. Most visited web page = facebook and my lovely blog.
36. What’s your real name =Jody
37. Nicknames = noodlebug, Jo-Jo Bear, Josh,
38. Relationship Status = married
39. Zodiac sign = don't follow that sort of thing
40. Male or female? =female
41. Elementary = yes, completed!
42. Middle School = I was from a small town, no such thing as middle school
43. High School/College = I went to YWAM after High School.
44. Hair color = blond, maybe a little tooooo blond!
45. Long or short = inverted bob-short
46. Height =5'4.. and don't even think of asking weight!
47. Do you have a crush on someone? he's medium height, dark and handsome
48: What do you like about yourself ? I'm a good listener
49. Piercings =yes
50. Tattoos = nope
51. Right or left = Right

FIRSTS:
52. First surgery = toe
53. First piercing =ears
54. First best friend = Laurie
55. First sport you joined = T-ball
56. First vacation = Disney Land, age 5
58. First pair of trainers = what are trainers?!

RIGHT NOW:
59. Eating =nothing
60. Drinking = nothing
61. I'm about to = check on the boys to make sure they aren't killing each other.
62. Listening to = I think we covered that question already.
63. Waiting on = Bedtime... oh please come quickly!!!

64. Want kids? = no more than I got!
65. Get Married? = never again, haha!
66. Career? = Maid, Nanny, Chef, Janitor, Lover, nurse, teacher, counsellor, taxi service..etc...

WHICH IS BETTER:
67. Lips or eyes = eyes
68. Hugs or kisses = kisses
69. Shorter or taller = taller
70. Older or Younger = MATURE!
71. Romantic or spontaneous = either!
72. Nice stomach or nice arms = both please!
73. Sensitive or loud = sensitive
74. Hook-up or relationship = relationship
75. Trouble maker or hesitant = depends on the situation.

HAVE YOU EVER :
76. Kissed a stranger = no
77. Drank hard liquor= what is HARD LIQUOR?
78. Lost glasses/contacts = no
79. Sex on first date = no
80. Broken some one's heart = I think maybe
81. Had your own heart broken = of course
82. Been arrested = handcuffed, yes.. by the cops, nope! :O)
83. Turned someone down = yes
84. Cried when someone died = Yes (what kind of a question is this?!)
85. Fallen for a friend? = guilty, it was called rebound!

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:
86. Yourself = yes
87. Miracles = yes
88. Love at first sight =yes
90. Santa Claus =no
91. Kiss on the first date = Yes
92. Angels =yes

ANSWER TRUTHFULLY:
94. Had more than 1 girlfriend/boyfriend at a time = no
95. Did you sing today? = yep
96. Ever cheated on somebody? = no way
97. If you could go back in time, how far would you go? = Age 16
98. If you could pick a day from last year and relive it = A week in Radium was worth reliving
99. Are you afraid of falling in love? = No... the falling is the best part.
100. Posting this as 100 truths? In my blog

A Summer in Review

2009-08-18T22:38:00.000-07:00

Our big family vacation was in the middle of June this past year. I thought it might be a smudge too early, and quite honestly was worried we may get stuck with nasty weather. My husband pushed for it saying that he needed time away, and NOW, so we went to Radium,BC. and we had a fabulous time.
Our condo was perfect, we had a heated pool which we had to ourselves for the whole week. It was a lazy vacation, no real game plan except to relax, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and check out the surrounding area.
It was a bit heartbreaking to have to leave the Columbia Valley, it's truly stunning, and the weather, don't get me started, it was HOT!!

This is me taking the baby down the chair lift after seeing the grizzly bear reserve!

Our awesome condo!!!

We decided to tackle a pretty huge project this past summer, that being our train wreck of a backyard. When we purchased our home it was winter, snow was on the ground so we had no idea what little treasure awaited us underneath all the snow.
DIRT, CONCRETE, ASPHALT, NO GRASS.... ANYWHERE!!

After 2 days of construction on the back yard ripping out concrete and asphalt. After 3 truckloads of dirt being hauled in the level out the huge ruts the big trucks left, after waiting another month for beautiful sod, and after putting up a new, huge deck, the project was complete!!

I heart my new backyard.. you have no idea!!

We still plan to paint the house and repair the retaining wall this sept. Thanks to the Flutter Family who will be coming up to help us!

The remainder of our days have been filled with breaking up fights among the boys.... fun, fun... less then 10 days till school starts!!!! (do I sound excited?)
We have gone to my folks cabin, fished, did water sports, roasted hot dogs and enjoyed lake life.
Unfortunately the weather in my neck of the woods have been rather cool for summer. Our regular temperatures average at about 30 degrees Celsius, this year though it's been pretty rainy and windy, not great weather for summer activities.
If you remember my previous post about the aerobic machine we were wanting to get, well we bought the Incline Trainer from Nordic Track, we are awaiting the delivery.
SO that has been my summer so far, it's almost at an end and I am looking forward to the kids being busy again, for the programs to start up and for life to get back to normal.
Hope you all have had a great summer...

A Book Review

2009-08-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

I had no idea this book was being made into a major motion picture when I picked it up at Walmart. I suppose it's a good thing because I am sure I would have watched the movie first and then never have bothered with reading the book, and it's a good read...
The main characters are Henry and Clare and the story focuses on the past, present and future of these two characters. It's a modern day, edgy love story that makes you want the happy ending, but makes you think there may not be one.
I don't want to give it away because as I said it is a good read. Be forewarned the language is a bit on the crude side, and the author throws in a fair amount of F-bombs which I found pretty tasteless and unnecessary. That being said the story in itself is captivating and as I turned the last page I wished it would go on and on....
Here is the trailer for the movie, but do yourself a favor and read the book first....

Good Intentions

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

My heart was in the right place, I really did have good intentions and wanted to succeed but it wasn't meant to be.
I convinced my very skeptical husband to buy me another gym pass. I told him I'd get the 3 month pass as a trial run to see if we could juggle our schedules, co-ordinate with the nursing times of the baby,and see if we could do it. Well guess what?? I know you know... it's NOT working.
My littlest sweetheart has a knack for throwing things off schedule in our already busy home. It's like she knows when I am trying to plan sometime out of the house because her feedings become erratic, she's fussy or will only settle down at 9pm. I suppose I could go after 9pm, the gym is 24 hours. But honestly I get a little nervous being there that late. The few times I have gone I am usually the only girl there among a handful of guys and the staff all leave earlier so it's just us patrons. I just don't feel comfortable so I tend to not go.
So here I am, still carrying this beloved baby weight, and maybe a few extra pounds that I had before the pregnancy. :O) I am sick of feeling like a stuffed sausage in my pre-pregnancy clothes, and I REALLY don't want to buy anymore clothes in the size I need. My only option is to loose weight.
The journey has begun for an at home cardio machine. I am looking at the Nordick Track Incline trainer. It burns a lot of calories, which I need, and it does so in minimal time, which again I need.

Hopefully by the end of summer the stuffed sausage feeling will be at a minimum and I will feel better knowing I am on my way....

Just Because

2009-07-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just run out of material, so here goes...

1) What would you like written on your headstone?
"Here Lies Jody J. Pardon me for not rising..."
Seriously though I have never thought about it, maybe something fun is the way to go.
2) What is your dream car?
If I were childless it would be an old convertible mustang, aqua blue! But I DO have kids so I would love a Ford Expedition or a Toyota Sienna, I know typical soccer mom vehicle. I am a soccer mom and proud of it!
3) Is pornography morally wrong?
Yes... that is all I am gonna say about that.
4)What is the best music video EVER????
Due to the sudden passing of Michael Jackson, hubby and I have been watching some of his video's. The one that really caught our eye was the last performance he did a few days prior to his passing. His dancing is SICK!!

5)Do you carry a donor card? Why or why not?
I do, as morbid as it is to think about. I believe it is the right thing to do if your not going to need them anymore.
6)What color do you prefer your pens to write in?
Purple... I love writing in purple!
7)Are babies cute?
Of course, even the homely babies are cute.
8)Do you subscribe to a magazine? Which one?
I don't but I would like to get one.
9)What was the last thing you used a microwave for?
I used it to reheat a banana muffin for my son.
10)What book are you reading?
Rachael Ray's 30 minute meals cook book.
11)Cite a song lyric that means something to you.
Lucky I'm in love with my best friend, lucky to have been where we have been, lucky to be coming home again.
12)Tell me a joke
What were Tarzan's last words? Who greased the vvvviiiiinnnnneeeee????
13)Who should play James Bond?
How about someone from another ethnicity... I know Gurbaksh Chahal

14)Write a Haiku Poem (3 lines, 5-7-5 syllables)
Green fades to Yellow
Leaves on the trees are turning
It's only July!!
15)What's the oldest thing you own?
I have a few doily's my grandmother made.

"The world's a playground, after sometime everyone forgets that."

2009-07-16T06:44:00.000-07:00

What would happen if we started saying yes to every opportunity that came our way. (within reason of course) After watching this movie I have often thought that. How would our lives change if we started saying yes to new experiences? Just food for thought....

The Heart of Marriage is Memories - Bill Cosby

2009-07-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

July 10,2009 our 10 year wedding anniversary. I can be fairly nostalgic when it comes to momentous occasions in my life. I always look back and ask myself what I was doing at this exact time on that specific date. In keeping with that tradition I looked back on the July 10th, 1999 and here are my memories.
I remember waking up, smiling, knowing that today was my wedding day. I then recalled what had happened the night before when my ladies informed me that we were having a murder mystery party. I was told to dress as my character for the mystery party which was a loose gal with lots of makeup and a short skirt. I complied, a little nervous wondering why I was the only one getting into character, being assured they would all change once we arrived at my friends I went along. I should have known better, my closest gal pals then took me to Earl's ( a hip bar) they taped a sign to my back announcing I was a bride to be and paraded me around the bar. (Ah.. good memories)
I remember being at the hair dressers and holding back the tears as she turned me around to see my reflection in the mirror, after that moment passed one of horror replaced it as I realized I had worn a tighter, pull over your head t-shirt. Thank goodness for my wonderful maid of honor who contorted that shirt every which way to fit over my fancy do'... thanks Tanya!
Upon arriving at the church my soon to be mother-in law informed me that the ring bearer's tux didn't fit ( leave it to my hubby not to have all his guys try things on a day before the wedding-PUNCH) So as we waited for the Best man to race back to the church with a proper tux for the ring bearer all I could focus on was seeing my man-Jay.
When those doors swung open and we finally made eye contact I saw a look come across his face that I hadn't seen before, and since that time have only seen 3 times after. It was a look of deep emotion, appreciation and LOVE. It is the same look I've seen at the birth of our children. It's a look I will never forget.
After exchanging vows, promising to love each other through the good and bad. We were finally man and wife.
So these are my memories of this day, our special day. These are the thoughts I reflect on when our Anniversary comes along every year. These are the memories I will carry and reflect upon on all our years to come.

I dedicate this song to my loving husband on our 10 year Anniversary:

2009-07-09T16:15:00.000-07:00

I borrowed this idea from a fellow blog.

The view from where I sit: The baby is laying on the couch looking at the throw pillow and passing gas. Yup, life with a baby. She is 3 months now, and so beautiful, she has brought so much love and joy into our house. Leaning against the wall is my new, bright red Kenmore vacuum reminding me I have some cleaning to do, I'll just glance the other way for now.

Outside my window are dark grey clouds and branches swaying in the wind. Our city is SO windy it really makes summertime unpleasant. People are getting home from work now, I wish my husband were home already he's always later then he says he will be...

I am thinking about how I wish the baby would stop fussing and go to sleep already. I should get supper underway, I shouldn't have had a few nacho chips as I am trying to eat better. I am thinking about the fact that I probably won't get this post done until tonight when the house is quiet.

I am thankful for my health, family, provision and second chances.

We are learning about how we ALL must contribute to make the house run. The boys are learning to unload the dishwasher, freshen up the bathroom, take care of a little sister and to do it with a happy heart. I am still learning that one some days.

I am creating a flower garden. We have been landscaping our yard, still a long way to go, but the journey has been fun.

I am reading nothing at the moment, but I would like to start a chapter book with the kids again this summer. Last summer we read Charlotte's Web and The Wizard of Oz, we had a great time so we will be heading to the library soon.

I am hoping we can figure out where we want to live and how to make it happen.

I am hearing SILENCE!!! SSSsshhhhh the baby FINALLY settled herself down!

Around the house, that is a whole other story. I really want to be that woman who has her house organized and tidy. HELP ME GET THERE!!!!

One of my favorite things is Tim Horton's Iced Cappuccino's. I would have one, or more, daily if they weren't like 1000 calories each...

A few plans for the rest of the week are boating and a BBQ on Saturday, cleaning the house, cutting the grass, making it to the gym.... same old, same old.

A picture I am sharing:

My 3 month old daughter and I... I love her so much!

Boys will be boys...

2009-06-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

They had been sitting in the house most of the day, glued to the T.V. Rain was the excuse of the day as to why they couldn't go outside and play. I went along with their reasoning, for a while, but the onslaught of " He kicked me!" , " I didn't mean to hit him, my fist accidentally connected with his face." I couldn't take it any longer so I gave them a choice either get your tiny butts outside or go lay on your beds in total silence. To my shock and disbelief (not really) they opted to go outside. Finally some peace and quiet, a good time to check my email/facebook etc...
A few minutes turned into about 20 minutes, no one had come in complaining of being teased or physically harmed so I thought I should go check on them. This is what I found...

Creation Calls

2009-06-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

For me there is something about nature, the kind of nature you don't see everyday, that reminds me of the wonder of God and His majesty. On our recent trip to B.C, as we were really entering the beautiful rocky mountains, my mind started to reflect on how magnificent and awe inspiring His creation really is.
Many, many moons ago when I was living in the rocky mountain region, everyday taking in my beautiful surroundings, I happened upon a song that has become to mean a lot to me. I found a beautiful video to accompany it, hope you enjoy it as much as I did...

Sunday, quote of the day...

2009-06-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

"Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty."
Mother Theresa

You are cordially invited to a dream....

2009-06-05T20:47:00.000-07:00

We were in a rush, a whole group of us, in a foreign city with windy roads and speeding cars. I was hastily packing my bag overwhelmed at how much I still needed to find room for. As I looked around the room I shared with the girls I was travelling with I realized from their tidy luggage that I had better pick up speed as to not miss our plane.
I decided to drive to the airport with one of the girls that I didn't get along with all that well. We were driving down a fast moving highway and I was lost in thought. Having been rushed to pack I remembered that I still hadn't applied any make up so I dug out my make up bag, pulled open the passenger mirror that lit up and started to apply foundation.
The girl driving told me it was really distracting her, and it was at that moment I realized how nervous she really was driving on this windy, unfamiliar road. We had semi's on all sides and she was picking up speed to pass them, I think.
I quickly apologised and put the make up away. It was at that moment we were approaching a bridge, she was driving so fast, she didn't turn the wheel enough and we ended up hitting the guard rail head on.
From that moment everything went into slow motion. I saw pieces of the car breaking off and flying through the air, and I remember thinking to myself what is my family going to do without me.
~end of dream~

I woke up disturbed and when I think about it I shiver a bit inside. Strange dream.

2009-06-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

Life has been busy, so busy blogging has been left on the back burner so to speak. But I have some moments right now as my little baby is sleeping to have some 'me' time on the computer.
I can't believe summer is finally here. Most of my days and nights are spent in the yard watering our new grass, which looks great if I do say so myself! I have been making countless trips to the local nurseries to pick out flowers, pots, little gizmo's for the garden etc. Yes, I love summer!!
We are heading out on an early summer vacation in the next little while. My darling husband keeps reminding me that he needs to get away for a while so we will be packing up and road tripping it in a few days.
There are some wonderful spots in the Canadian Rockies that we want to explore and the place we are staying is kid friendly, equipped with a heated pool and hot tubs! I have to say I am little nervous, our daughter is only 8 weeks and the thought of being stuck in a van for 7 hours is a LITTLE terrifying! :O)
A good friend of mine, WAUGDAI, came through town the other day to drop off her baby gift to me. WOW! What a surprise, she had it handmade and it's beautiful! I have the hippest/coolest diaper bag ever, it's black and funky and completely reversable. Best thing is it doesn't look like a diaper bag! And to top things off she had a gorgeous baby sling made for me, it looks like this, except for the color!
I am going to watch the video's on how to use this sling, I will post some pics of me with my baby once we get the hang of it!
Well speaking of baby, she is bellowing for me... gotta run!

Dreams do come true

2009-05-23T08:35:00.000-07:00

I have waited a long time for this. I have endured endless amounts of dirt in the house, all over my white carpet. Yes, it's been a nightmare from day one. Days filled with getting down on my hands and knees and scrubbing our dog each and every time she went outside and wanted back in covered in dirt. I can't say I am going to miss it, in fact I almost did a happy dance when we laid our sod last night.
As each roll was laid, and the dirt slowly started disappearing I started to get a bit giddy with relief. My darling husband broke his back last night trying to get it completed before our weekend started and he succeeded. Have I mentioned there is nothing more sexy then a man laying sod??
This morning, once hubby crawls outta bed, I plan to sit with him on our new deck, enjoying some weak coffee, and looking out on our new green playing field. Life is good today!

One deflated tire

2009-05-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

I'm just keeping it real people, my husband comments that I am way to personal on my blog but I respond with the fact that I am just being honest with the good sense not to give out too many details.
So, one deflated tire is what I am using to describe my post pregnancy stomach. I don't remember it hanging around this long after giving birth the other times, but maybe it's because it's my third and all bets are off after two kids? I'm not sure, all I know is I am tired of my husband kneading it likes it's bread dough and commenting on how hilarious it is. WHATEVER!
So as of know I am in the midst of deciding whether to buy ANOTHER gym pass or purchase a treadmill for at home use. I like the gym for all the options you have there, but the one thing my gym won't offer is babysitting for a baby under 6 months of age. To be honest I wouldn't want to leave her with teenagers anyway so that being said I would really have to co-ordinate with my husband's schedule. Likely I would have to go after he's home from work and by that time I am usually DONE for the day.
Having a treadmill at home appeals in that I can work out when baby is asleep, but I worry I will be constantly interrupted by household stuff or kids. What to do?
What do you guys think??? I want my deflated tire gone, and soon!!

Here Comes the Sun

2009-05-16T07:01:00.000-07:00

That time of year is upon us, or I hope it is soon, where we will feel the warmth of the sun upon our deprived skin. I love waking up in the morning, getting my morning coffee in hand and heading out on the deck to absorb some rays and relax.
Back in my foolish youth I would sit outside all day, lathered in baby oil, and would bake..literally! Of course that was after I had spent a month or so tanning in a tanning bed, just so I would have a base tan and wouldn't burn outside :O) Oh, those were the good ole days of "ignorance is bliss", and it was.
Today I am trying to be responsible with the sun and how much exposure I get, along with my family. I buy my kids UV protective clothing, lather on the sunscreen, make them wear sunglasses and hats, etc. This year in my quest to be more 'green' about what we use I began researching sunscreens, remember when I said ignorance is bliss, well this is one of those situations.
I have come across countless studies that are now saying sunscreen may not protect you from harmful rays, but it may actually lead up to an increase in skin cancer! Sunscreens contain chemicals that once heated by the sun change into cancer causing free radicals! Yes, this upsets me! Where are the regulations, where is the integrity of the companies promoting these sunscreens?
We lather our kids up, we lather ourselves up and we think we are being responsible with the sun in doing so. The fact is that since we have started adding sunscreen to our skin they have noticed an INCREASE in melanoma, especially in places like Australia where sunscreen has been heavily promoted.
So what is the alternative? I have come across some companies that are chemical free, they use zinc and minerals to shield us from the harmful rays. These minerals reflect the UV rays rather then absorbing them.
Here are a few that are chemical free:
California Baby
Burt's Bees
Alba
There are many more available online. Bottom line, we can't blindly trust these cosmetic companies. The research is out there and it's scary. Thankfully there are alternatives for us.

Someone's Growing Up!

2009-05-06T09:29:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say I have had this same fight for the past 4 years. It's the odd morning when my 7 year old son will get out of bed, on time, put a smile on his face and get ready with no trouble.
We have had all out yelling wars in the morning trying to get this boy from his warm bed to school on time. I have gone in with the best of intentions, put a sing-songy voice on, gave him multiple reminders that it's time to arise and start the day. It's not long, say after 10 reminders, that my patience is at a low as I see the clock continuing to move ahead and my lazy son is still trying to get out of bed.
I have grounded him, taken away favorite toys, nothing really seems to work, or work for long anyway until we are back to square one.
Since our daughter has been born my husband has taken on the glorious role of getting our son out of bed in the morning. For a while, due to the novelty, he would get out of bed no problem making me think he reserves his truly wonderful behavior for yours truly. I would be drowsy in bed, from an eventful night of breastfeeding, listening to the happy voices of my kids and husband getting the day started. Well, at least I am getting a sleep in, I think to myself.
One morning I am awakened to the impatient voice of my husband once again telling our son to get a move on. This morning the voices aren't too happy, a little smile comes across my face thinking to myself now he knows what my mornings have been like for too many years.
Later that day when my son returns from school my husband informs him there are going to be some changes around here. He then informs him, and me for that matter, that an alarm is going to be set in the boys room. It is going to be our sons responsibility to get up, dress himself, brush his teeth all before 7:45am. If this isn't done on time he will be grounded after school from playtime with his pals. After his teeth are brushed he is to get his dad up to make him breakfast.
Well, let's just say I had my doubts.
Our boy has been doing this for about a week now and he is doing great. I heard him this morning, as the whole house was asleep, he turned off the alarm, got himself dressed, teeth brushed and went and woke daddy up to make him breakfast.
I'm proud of the boy and grateful to my husband for pushing him to grow up a bit and get some things done himself.

8 Things

2009-05-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

Again I have borrowed the idea from Cocotte... thanks girl!

8 things I am looking forward to?
- My daughter sleeping through the night
- SUMMER!!!
- Time spent at the cabin
- Losing this baby weight
- Grass being laid in my backyard
- a swimming pool
- planting flowers and growing veggies
- getting back to the gym

8 things I did yesterday?
- nursed my baby
- complained about the wind in our city
- played badminton in the backyard with my husband
- ate fish for dinner
- baked banana muffins and cookies
- talked to a girlfriend I haven't talked to in a long time
- cleaned the living room
- played catch with my sons

8 TV shows I watch
- Grey's Anatomy
- The Doctors
- Biggest Loser
- Friday Night Lights
- Oprah
- Ellen
- Housewives of Orange County
- Who's the Boss

Earth Day

2009-04-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

Some days it feels really overwhelming, I feel like I am on information overload especially after watching all the Earth Day shows yesterday.
Our family is making some progress in our quest to be Au natural. We have tried to educate our children on the importance of recycling, using all natural products when we can and making good choices regarding our food. Do I feel like we have arrived, not even close, but we have made some little discoveries along the way which have brought us closer to our goal. Here are a few of the things we have incorporated:

1)Castile Soap

Castile soap. This stuff is awesome! My friend Nikki told me about it and all the stuff you can do with it. I have diluted it and made organic hand soap. It takes getting used to because it feels like your just squirting water out of the soap dispenser, but once you start rubbing your hands together it bubbles up and does the job well.
I have made an all purpose cleaning solution by adding a few squirts of castile soap, 2 teaspoon of rubbing alcohol and a spray bottle full of water. It cleans windows and mirrors great as well.
We have washed our kids hair with a few squirts of this castile soap, it smells wonderful and again, no harsh, cancer causing chemicals.
I have even made baby wipes with castile soap,water, organic olive oil, and a few drops of tea tree oil. Nikki gave me this recipe and it works great! You just add it to a wipes container, fold in some paper towel, and swish it around.
I guess you could say we really love our castile soap!

2)Bio Life

Phosphate-free. Biodegradable. Infused with essential oils. Made with plant-derived renewable ingredients (such as coconut oil, palm oil and corn oil), instead of synthetic and petroleum based chemicals. Readily biodegradable based on OECD standard 301D.
This dish soap is great! It actually gives gives you a lot of bubbles and smells really good. In Canada you can buy this at Shoppers Drug Mart and it's only about $3.00

3)Giovanni Organic Skin/Hair Care

This again can be purchased at Shoppers Drug Mart, it may be available at your local pharmacy as well. These skin care and hair care products are wonderful. They come in great scents like winter raspberry, Lilac and grapefruit. I have yet to try their hair care products like the gel and hairspray, but they are next on my list. We use the body wash and it is really nice and completely organic.

4)Earth Safe

This is another product we purchased from a health food store, we bought it for our baby girl because they feature an organic baby line. It doesn't smell as good as the Giovanni skin care products but again it has a baby line so this is what we went with for her. Completely organic, mostly derived from different tree bark, no harsh cancer causing chemicals.

5)Method

I LOVE the Method line. This furniture polish is non toxic, works wonderfully and smells divine!!

This is a great laundry detergent. This biodegradable, plant-based formula is tough on stains, easy on clothes and gentle on the planet. it's phosphate-, dye- and fragrance-free, and it's hypo-allergenic so it's perfect for people with allergies or fragrance sensitivities.
Method also has a baby laundry detergent made from Rice Milk so it has a great scent to it. I have found it works great on our clothes!

So these are some of the changes we are trying to incorporate in our family. It's not perfect and we still have so much more to do but it's a start. Our kids are really on board, my oldest will tell me he had to wash his hands in formaldehyde at school because there wasn't any organic soap available. FYI- when we started changing everything over we explained how there were dangerous chemicals, like formaldehyde are in soaps and that is wasn't good for his skin or the earth. So of course being a seven year old he's held onto the whole formaldehyde thing and that's why he informs us he's had to wash his hands in it.
I would love to hear your ideas about being green, any homemade recipes for cleaning products etc.
Earth Day is Everyday!

April 8th, 2009 - A Look Back

2009-04-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

The events of this day as I remember them....
I awoke around 6am with slight contractions, nothing that really hurt just enough to make me uncomfortable. I puttered around for the morning and it seemed if I sat still all contractions stopped yet the minute I walked around I would feel one come on. This is how the day went on until around 5pm when things picked up.
I was feeling so torn because my boys had an award ceremony at their kids club this night. My kids were being given awards and there was a little tea for all the parents, both my husband and I really wanted to go. Considering that whenever I sat still I felt ok we decided to try. We took two vehicles, my mother in-law was down so she drove the kids in one car and we took another. I told my husband to pack my suitcase in the van just in case we had to leave early to go to the hospital.
We arrived at the kids banquet and as I was stepping out of the vehicle to go in I was hit with another strong contraction. I decided then and there to head straight for the hospital.
I could barely walk the hall to the women's ward when I was hit with another, a paramedic came with a wheelchair and I was brought into be examed.
I was told I was in early labour and that I could either stay or go. I decided to stay because I wanted to ensure I would get an epidural.
Little FYI- in my town there is only 2 epidural pumps, it's first come first serve and I didn't want to miss out. I found out later that only 1 pump was working and a lady next to me had it. I was FREAKING out!!! I kept telling the nurse I was promised by my doctor to get an epidural, I specifically told my doc that I would travel to another city to get an epidural if need be, she knew how important it was to me. My doc came into the room and assured me that the anesthetist would work something out. He came in and said he was trying to rig something up with another pump. All that being said I got my epidural and felt so relieved.
Unfortunately the epidural on numbed half of my body. The doc kept uping the dose, he gave me so much meds my blood pressure dropped severly and I almost passed out. Consequently I felt almost all contractions which really sucked but he could'n't give me anything else. Knowing that, I asked for laughing gas to take the edge off.
During all this I needed to go to the bathroom. I couldn't walk so they gave me a bedpan, now tell me who can pee laying down with people all in the room chatting, not me. So they decided to give me a catheder which I HATE, it always hurts and this time was no exception. I had had enough at this point and started to get emotional, she quickly broke my water after and then things really progressed, quick!
Within minutes I felt the need to push, I told them that, and they told me to wait until the doc comes. Yeah, RIGHT! I wasn't waiting so I told them I was pushing and the nurse better get ready.
After about 3 pushes she was out laying on my chest. RELIEF!!
We spent one night in the hospital and then booked it home. So here we are all better, healing up and moving on with life.
Our little girl is perfect, sweet and beautiful! Her brother's love, love, love her and are spoiling her already.

Copy Cat, again.

2009-04-15T15:31:00.000-07:00

I admit I am low on brain power at the moment due to lack of sleep so I happened upon this post by a lovely fellow blogger Cocotte. I enjoy these little ditty's so here is my attempt at it.

1) Did you date someone from your high school?
Aside from many crushes, and WANTING to date certain guys from my high school, I only dated one. His name was Mike and he was in grade 11 when I was in grade 9. He had somewhat of a reputation as a player but I think I was just so flattered that he was interested in me, a lowly 9th grader, that I ignored the rumours. Needless to say he succumbed to temptation and kissed another girl while I was a youth group on Friday night. We were doomed from the start LOL

2)Did you marry someone from your high school?
No.

3) Did you carpool to school?
I did for a while with my friend who lived one house down, I even paid for gas, but I got the hint she didn't want to do it anymore when she wouldn't answer the phone in the morning to arrange our ride and then I'd see her drive right past me pretending not to see me.

4) What kind of car did you have?
I never owned a car in high school, but my first car was a 1980 something two tone brown Topaz. This car was horrid and I was embarrassed to be seen in it.

5) What kind of car do you have now?
I have a 1996 charcoal Ford Freestar. I am thinking of going to a SUV, but once you have a van I think it's hard to really consider anything else, especially with kids. My husband always says a van is like a living room on wheels. You have so much more room.

6)It's Friday night, where were you then?
I could be found at our church youth group. I went for years and loved every minute of it.

7) It's Friday night, where are you now?
Friday night is Shabbat so we are together as a family, having a nice meal and then usually a movie/treat party night with the kids. They get into their pj's, blankets and stuffed animals are strewn all over the living room and we have trays of treats and fruit that we allow the kids to eat in the living room. It's a lot of fun.

8) What kind of job did you have in high school?
I worked in the market gardens in our town, and a grocery store while in high school.

9) What kind of job do you have now?
I think this pretty much sums it up....

10) Were you a party animal?
I never hung with the party animals at high school, but I had a great group of friends from our youth group. We had get togethers every weekend. Bonfires, eating out, movies, going out to our friends cabin for the weekend. Good, clean fun.

11)Were you considered a flirt?
Sadly yes. I loved to flirt, and so did all my girlfriends. When my now husband expressed interest in me he was warned about me...of course once we starters dating I stopped all flirting. :O)

12) Were you in band?
Oh yeah! The main reason I joined was because it was an easy credit and all the band trips. I played clarinet.

13)When did you graduate?
1993

14)Do you still talk to friends from high school?
I Have been able to re-connect with some over facebook, but most I don't talk to anymore. Kind of sad because I have fond memories of these friends.

A Little Girl !!

2009-04-10T10:55:00.001-07:00

April, 8th, 2009 our little girl was born at 10:56pm. She weighed 7lbs 8 oz, 19 inches long and very beautiful. We names her Samara which means protected by God. I left the hospital yesterday because who really rests at the hospital, you ladies know what I mean, right? This is just a quick post to thank you all again for your kind words and to let you know we are doing really good. She is nursing great and sleeping pretty darn good for a 3 day old. I will post more pictures soon and go through all the gory details of labour, which I KNOW you all want to hear, right? :O)

Passover-Messianic Style

2009-04-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Passover is just around the corner again, a few days to be exact, and I am scrambling trying to get everything needed for our Seder supper. Living in the small village that I live in these supplies are short in demand. I can't find lamb anywhere and you know I was at the local grocery store a few weeks ago and I saw some pre-packaged lamb kabobs, I knew I should have picked them up, but thinking that more will be available closer to our time I waited....BIG MISTAKE!!
Since my family has only recently started to participate in the Biblical Feasts, I still feel so new to all this and I am constantly referencing the Bible and online resources on how to observe correctly and what each symbol means in relation to Yeshua (Jesus). It has been a steep learning curve to say the least and when we teach our children regarding these feasts I simplify as much as I can so it makes sense to them, and me as well. :O)
This year will be a little different because we will be celebrating alone as a family. In previous years we have either been with my folks and extended family or with good friends who have been observing Passover for years, so we could just sit back, relax and enjoy the meal. This year it's all on us plus we have my mother in law here who has never participated in Passover so it should be interesting. I am sure she will have a lot of questions.
Regardless of all these challenges I am looking forward to a quiet time with our family. A time of reflection and giving thanks to God. Yeshua (Jesus) is our passover lamb and that is what we will be reflecting on and being thankful for.

2009-04-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well I am sitting here with my feet up still pregnant. The day my plug popped I ended up calling the doctor because I was having such bad back pain. This isn't the regular back pain that I have been having for a few months, it was different and more intense. The doctor's assistant told me to head to the hospital and that my doctor was on her way.
Upon arriving I was hooked up to the fetal monitor and then given an internal, which is mighty uncomfortable, the nurse told me the baby was still high up and my cervix wasn't doing much of anything. They asked me to leave a urine sample and to get some blood work done to rule out kidney infection. I was released and left for home.
Later that night my doc called telling me to go get some injections to help with the pain and give me a good nights rest. So there is nothing new to report, unfortunately, so I am trying to be patient and wait this out.
Thanks for all the well wishes and kind words!!!

I think I've Arrived...

2009-04-01T10:55:00.000-07:00

I won't say today is the day, but I think I can say within the next few days we will be welcoming out little girl to our family. Today my "plug" unplugged itself and I've had a dull back ache for the past 2 days. I don't know what this all means because my other two pregnancies have been SO different from this one. With the other 2 my water broke, contractions started. I had no real symptoms with my other pregnancies, this one has been different from the get go.
Needless to say I am waiting for a call back from my doc to see what I am supposed to do. This is new ground for me as I am guessing most pregnancies are. It could be anyday now folks... Thank God!

I'm Frustrated....

2009-03-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

I blog for many reasons, I like that it records the daily going on's in our family, it's great for looking back on memories, and I enjoy expressing myself this way. Today is about expressing frustration... My oldest son is in grade 1 public school. Each and everyday he comes home I search through his bag to get his schedule book. The teacher and I use this book to communicate, if I have a question I write it down in this book and if my oldest son has achieved something great in school or got himself into mischief she tells me through this book. You get the drift, right?
This past Friday I came across a insert stating that my son had climbed a fence and because this was against school policy he will be missing a week's worth of recesses. That is 15 recesses in one week. Now I am not one of those mom's who thinks her son does no wrong, trust me I am all for punishments that fit the crime, but this one has me scratching my head.
I am trying to remain objective but the more I think about it the more I get frustrated and upset. I believe all kids, especially boys, need physical activity, once all that energy is drained they are better equipped to sit and listen, to be calm because all the ants in their pants are gone. Part of me wonders if this punishment is going to make the week harder on him because he won't have fresh air all day, no running and shouting, it really bothers me. What bothers me more is they didn't discuss with me, his mother, if this type of punishment is alright. Frankly it isn't..... okay I am getting all riled up again.:O) Breathe Jody!!
So tomorrow I will be chatting with his teacher and expressing my thoughts towards this punishment. I guess we'll see what happens. It's days like this I wish homeschooling had worked better for us. (sigh)

Who Knew.....

2009-03-26T23:46:00.000-07:00

I went to the hospital the other day to pre-register for my upcoming stay. I was given a tour of the mother's ward, looked in on rooms and had some questions answered. Upon leaving the nurse handed me a booklet on what to expect with my hopsital stay, and some other reading on what to expect with a new born, etc... it was a great review.
I came across one subject that I found quite interesting. It mentioned that after the baby is born it is important to hold the baby, skin to skin, against your chest so bonding can take place - I agree with that and did that with my two boys. The one thing I read, which I have NEVER heard before is that they believe it very important to leave the baby unbathed until breastfeeding has been established. WHY?? , WHAT?? I could see doing the inital feeding, but after that my boys were always bathed and then handed back to me. I decided to look around on the web about this and came across an article by some OB's stating that vernix helps ward off infection and protects the babies skin from the elements. They stated not to wash it off but better yet rub it into the baby and refrain from bathing for a few days.
Who knew? I mean honestly I thought that vernix was there to protect them while in the womb, but wouldn't you know God, in all his wisdom, had multiple uses for that protective coating.... makes me shake my head and smile. Needless to say I won't insist on a bath for her for a few days.

I want to get away, I wanna fly away.....

2009-03-24T22:59:00.000-07:00

We decided to treat ourselves this past winter. No, no fancy trips to an exotic, foreign, WARM climate, not this year. We decided to pack up the munchkins and head west a few hours to a city that actually has something to do on cold winter days.
I booked us in at a kid friendly hotel, we were lucky enough to get the Spider man theme room which rocked my boys world. Our hotel had water slides, X-box, and free breakfast the next morning. What more could we ask for?? As for me I went for the Super Walmart, yes small things amuse me, but when your from a "city" (and I use the word generously) where NOTHING is going on or open past 8pm a Super Walmart is the bomb.
So we packed up our mini van, decluttered it before hand, installed the portable DVD players, had everyone buckled in, coffee's in their trays when it happened. My battery was D.E.A.D. (AUGH!!-stupid van) So after a lot of grumbling and complaining we unloaded the cargo and reloaded it into my hubby's truck. I believe it is fair to say at this point we are stressed out, the kids are at each other, and our coffee's are cold. (blah)
So we stop by Tim Horton's (a local coffee place) get two large Cafe Mocha's to go and we hit the road. Here is a picture of my little guys, all grins because we are finally on our way.

Despite a rocky start we had a great weekend. The kids went water sliding with their dad while I took pictures and tried to stay dry. We played X-box, ate take out, broke up two fighting kids... ah yes, not terribly relaxing for us parents, but sometimes you just need a change of scenery.
Here are some more pics of my boys enjoying their weekend in what they refered to as the "Greatest days EVER!!"

My bags are packed

2009-03-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Last night I packed my bags for the impending hospital visit I will be making any day now. In someways it's hard to believe it's been almost 9 months already, but in most ways it has felt like years. I feel ready to have this baby and I am so excited it's going to be a girl. The nursery is ready, well almost I have a little stencilling to do yet, but all the baby clothes have been washed in Ivory soap, newborn diapers have been purchased and all I can manage to do while I wait is put my swollen appendages up and blog about stuff.
The other day a girlfriend of mine was over for coffee with her little boy. Now this friend of mine is in no way an extremist, she has genuine concern over her family's health and what products she chooses to bring into the home. I started asking her questions about certain skincare products and where in our little village I could find some organic baby products.
You know how it is when you look back at a conversation and wished you'd never started it to begin with.. that is how I am feeling right now. Ignorance really is bliss until that little bubble of denial is popped and you know you couldn't make yourself forget if you tried.
We had a conversation about all the chemicals in kids and baby products and she left me with a short list of chemicals to look out for. Now me, being curious, went online trying to find some reputable web sites on the subject and found out things I wish I hadn't.
Baby steps is what I am telling myself right now, it's overwhelming to think that just about every skincare product you like is potentially ridden with cancer causing chemicals. I don't like fear mongering and don't want to pass that on to anyone, but it really makes you wonder why we are so sick, cancer is on the rise, and maybe our old granny's had it right by using castile soap for everything. I wonder....
Needless to say I need to start checking labels, and finding out what all those fancy, unpronounceable words are on the back of my shampoo bottle.

"Lost Adventures of Childhood" - presented by W5

2009-03-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately I wasn't able to remember that this documentary was being broadcast on a particular night because I really wanted to view it. I went to W5's web site and read a bit of a summary of the show and saw tidbits of it on the nightly news. The show focuses on today's children, the over scheduling, the technology driven society that is being created, and at what expense.
This is a topic so close to my heart because I see a problem happening with today's kids and mine aren't exempt. I don't over schedule my boys and maybe if I wasn't feeling like a beached whale about to give birth, maybe I would have. My kids are involved in something twice a week and that is plenty for both them and us. My problem is the technology side of things. T.V, Nintendo, Wii.... yes it's sad, and I really felt like we tried as parents to fight it, but we caved and most days regret it.
Balance is the key, I know it, we all know it, but some days when you feel too tired to come up with wonderful and exciting ideas to satisfy all the, "Mom, I bored", demands T.V and Nintendo don't seem too harmful. I need more balance and more energy and I know once this little princess makes her debut things will go back to normal. (at least they better)
Today we had a warm, wonderful wet spring day. So warm in fact my youngest was outside wearing flip flops and shorts. My oldest son and his friend came home after school and made a bee line for his room to play Nintendo. The first beautiful day of Spring and these little rug rats want to stay inside... NO WAY! I told them all to go outside and figure out something to do. Within minutes a football was being thrown around, mud puddles were being splashed in and my heart swelled. This is what kids are supposed to do. Go get wet, fall in the lake situated in the middle of the driveway, just go do something physical!!
We all remember "back in our day" how we used to play. Leaving the house, bike riding all day, back by nightfall. At least that is how I grew up ,and mind you it was in a small town, but I think it's fair to say we all experienced a great deal more freedom then our kids do today.
Another point made in this documentary was how today's parents are "marinating in fear" due to school shootings, abductions, pedophiles, etc. They stated the scheduled play dates, kids having to carry GPS systems with them, or cell phones so parents can contact them whenever needed, are hindering their development. My response to that is what are we supposed to do??? These fears are real, they are apart of today's sick, twisted world and most of us would rather err on the side of caution then to have something happen.
Being a parent is like wearing your heart outside your body. You are vulnerable in a way that you weren't before you had kids. So how do we give our kids the chance to be free without potentially costing them their safety and our peace of mind? I'm still trying to figure that one out.
I have talked to many of my friends, friends whose kids are in their teens to friends who have toddlers at home and the common thread is we all want better for our kids then what the status quo is. I suppose answers will be come as problems present themselves and maybe that is all we can hope for. To meet each challenge head on and do our best to guide these little treasures until they can properly decide for themselves.

I'd do anything for these rug rats...

Israel 1997

2009-03-18T21:41:00.001-07:00

Ever since I was a little girl I had wanted to travel and do missions. Our church was a big advocate for many mission organizations, but one that always stood out to me was YWAM ( Youth With A Mission).
One year after graduation I went to YWAM. For the first few months we had our lecture phase which consisted of many different themes. All focused on getting closer to God and finding out what our path was, are calling. During the lecture phase you go on mini outreaches, work with homeless people, serve food to the hungry, all great ministries. After the lecture phase you head out on a overseas outreach. Israel is the second outreach I went on with YWAM, my first being a few years earlier.
Israel changed my life, I wouldn't say it was a time of our team doing great ministry, but Israel impacted me and has led me on the path which I am on now. Being there as a believer you truly feel like you are home, it is familiar due to the fact that we have read about it from the Bible.
Leaving was heartbreaking and I long to go back someday with my husband and children. I had many experiences there and due to lack of technology back in the day I don't have a lot of pictures to show that. This little ditty I put together are a few of the good pictures I have with a story behind it.
Again due to technology back then and my lack of knowing how to really use my new camera, some of the pictures are not too clear. I hope you enjoy it anyway.

Feb.14th/2009

2009-03-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

I had wanted to post this, oh let's see, way back in February but I am not the most tech savy as some and had no idea how to download these pics. I am sure the next few posts will be of things we did as a family weeks or even months ago, but I have been in a slump as to what to write so this is giving me some good ideas.
Usually we don't do a whole lot for Valentine's Day, but as I have said in the past it's fun to do something so I purchased some little things for the boys. Here are a few of the pics with my new camera which I still am trying to figure out....

Spring is in the Air....finally.

2009-03-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

I dare say it's here folks, we have been waiting for what seems like forever, and I think I can finally say it's here. I don't know why this year it has felt like winter just wouldn't end. I'm sure it has something to do with the fact that my baby is due in spring so that coupled with the anticipation of warmer weather probably has something to do with it.
This past weekend my husband and I went into our mud/concrete mess of a backyard to do some spring cleaning. As he was doing all the bending to pick up trash and lifting it all away I was daydreaming about the new deck we will put up this summer. Taking one of the many sticks that were laying on the ground I drew the outline of the deck and then moved onto the area where I want to put the above ground pool. This is what I love about spring, it's a time for planning and new beginnings.
We are looking at getting a covered pergola to keep out the pesky mosquito's and wasps that seem to hover and bite whenever we are sitting around outside. Unfortunately I have read terrible reviews about these pergola's. You see where I live is very windy, so much so people have wrote in saying their pergola collapsed within 2 weeks. Something to keep in mind anyway.
So yes we have lots planned for this spring and summer and I am anxiously awaiting this baby to arrive so I can feel like I can enjoy this weather a bit. Whenever the weather turns for the better it makes me want to get more active, hit the gym or the trails for a walk, not this year. Walking up the stairs is giving me contractions so it's a bit frustrating, soon it will be a memory and I will be so sleep deprived the mere thought of a walk will not even enter my head.
Well this has been more of a rambling post, just some things that are going on in my neck of the woods.
What are your spring/summer plans????

Big Love

2009-03-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

I first watched this show about a year ago. It is a strange program about a man with plural wives. Now I am not for plural marriage, but watching these three very different women cope with living together as sister wives is like a car crash, you know you shouldn't watch but you can't help yourself. I think the dynamic between these three ladies really makes the show. You have the first wife, Barb, who is like a mother to all the other sister wives. Responsible, level headed and a peacemaker. The second wife, Nikki, is jealous, conniving and hates injustice. Then there is the third wife, Margene, who is the youngest of all three. She is the innocent, free spirited one of the bunch.
Watching Bill, the lucky husband, trying to manage and satisfy these three is entertaining and a little exhausting. My husband often says having one wife is hard enough, but to manage three....forget it, he'd rather be celibate.
I have chatted with my mom about this show a few times because I find it so interesting. Her take on the whole thing is it's society trying to desensitize us to it, so when we see it become more mainstream we won't be up in arms about it.
Have any of you ever seen it? What are your thoughts?

Growing Pains

2009-03-10T22:49:00.000-07:00

Little J has been looking forward to his bath time with his dad for the last few days. The tub is filled up with Superman bubble bath, toys are thrown in and they have a nice relaxing time enjoying a good soak.
After sometime my husband came into the living room to chat with me, I asked how Little J was doing and he told me he was washing himself and he'd be out shortly. Now Little J is 5 years old and he's my baby. Maybe I caudal him more then I should, I admit it, but I usually will wash him, shampoo his hair and help him get into his PJ's. Tonight my husband left him alone to do it all, and we heard about it when he made his way into the living room.
So my little man appears, dressed in PJ's and a robe, smelling clean and looking utterly crushed. He begins by stating that this was his worst bath ever! He was left alone to wash himself, drain the tub and then, AND THEN, he had to dress himself.
Now while his little tirade is going on my husband is hiding his laughter behind a newspaper. I, being the good mommy, sympathize with his outrage and try to comfort him. So I rub his back and tell him he did a great job, even though he's right ticked about it.
My husband, being the practical one, states to my son that he is now 5, he is a big boy and can do this by himself and succeed at it. Of course feeling like a total enabler, I join in with my husband and encourage Little J to do these things for himself because he is a big boy.
I think I baby that boy too much, I know I do, but he's so darn cute. Yes, I know it won't be cute when he's 10 and still expecting me to dress him... I know, I know.

Counting Sheep and Wide Awake

2009-03-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

I am going to pay for this in the morning. It's 1:40am and I am wide awake in bed writting this blog. I tried to go to sleep hours ago and just sort of laid here waiting for my eyes to go heavy and my brain to turn off, that blessed time never came.
Being the curious person that I am I decided to You Tube a video of a woman giving birth, now that was a mistake. Getting a bird's eye view, from that end, did NOTHING to calm my anxiety or turn my brain off for that matter. Now the thought of my body being put through such trauma has me even more awake and thoughtful. Let's move on so I can stop thinking about it.
I have my babies nursery on the brain. This weekend we bought a second hand dresser, repainted it white and it soon will be added to her room. Due to the weather in our neck of the woods being less then stellar, and our boys going absolutely stir crazy in the house, I purchased some wooden keepsake boxes for them
to paint and decorate for their sister. They did a fairly decent job of decorating and I am looking forward to seeing how they look on her newly painted dresser.
One other thing on the brain is I was able to reconnect with a girl I went on a mission trip to Israel with. It has been well over 10 years since we've spoken, gotta love Facebook!! So we are in the midst of catching up. From what I understand she still takes trips to Israel and her photo's make me miss it something terrible.
Do you see what I mean, there is alot going on in my brain and I NEED to shut it off. I need to try again to go to sleep or I will be a walking zombie tomorrow. Wish me luck...

Our Story

2009-03-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

1) How old were you when you first met your husband?
- I was 17 years old, he was 18
2) Who made the first move?
- I think I did by inviting him over to my friends house for an after grad party.
3) What was your first impression of him?
- I thought he was the quiet, brooding type... I was really intrigued.
4) When did you know you had really fallen for him?
- We were at a church bible camp, he was a counsellor, I was a camper. He started 'hanging' out with my camp counsellor and I was livid. We were at a bonfire one night and I saw him holding her hand. I couldn't take it so I stomped over to the other side of the fire across from them and glared. He caught my eye and just sort of looked at me. I knew I had fallen.
5) What is your favorite memory of how you guys got together?
- I have so many great memories of that time! Falling in love in crazy and emotional and so fun!! I suppose one of my most favorite memories is when I actually confronted him on the beach. A few days before we talked on the beach Jay had approached one of my good girlfriends asking about me. She pretty much told him I wanted to be free for the summer to have fun. Days later she told me about this conversation she'd had with him. I asked to talk with him on the beach and told him I knew how he felt.
6) Where was your first kiss?
- It was after that week of camp. We decided to go for a drive together, we ended up parking at the park and talking for hours. We shared our first kiss there, and almost right after a patrol car pulled up and an officer came and knocked on the window. He then asked me if I was being held against my will. :O)
7) What is your most frightening memory of your dating time?
- Jay and I were in a car full of people heading up to a local Bible College for a football tournament. We had driven all night, he played football the next day and we were to drive home. I told him I would drive for part of the way so he could rest. We were about 10 km out of town, everyone in the car was asleep instantly, including me. We drove down a steep ditch and I woke up just in time to steer clear of a huge power box. Very scary, and to think about it to this day he won't let me drive on long trips.
8) When did you know you would marry him?
- I honestly believe I knew from very early on in our dating. But when I knew that I knew we had been dating for about 6 years, I had been on a mission trip to Cuba. I became quite ill when I was there and couldn't participate in all the ministry times. I spent alot of time alone in bed thinking and praying. All of my doubts and concerns sort of disappeared. Upon returning to Canada I called him from a layover city and told him I was ready. He was VERY skeptical, but I knew that I knew and after a few months I had a ring on my finger.
9) What does your husband bring to your life?
- I will narrow it down because there is alot. He is my best friend so he brings me companionship, love, loyalty,smiles, hugs... this is starting to sound cheesy... but it's true.
10) What is the nicest thing your husband has done for you lately?
- The other day he brought me home a lumbar support that massages as you lean against it. It is fabulous and is making me feel like a new women!

Interview With My Boys

2009-03-03T20:05:00.000-08:00

This is an interview with my boys. I got the idea from a fellow bloggers site and thought it seemed interesting. I interviewed them separately so I could get their answers without the other's influence. Here goes..

Big Son

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOM ALWAYS SAYS TO YOU?
- I Love you

WHAT MAKES MOM HAPPY?
- being good

WHAT MAKES MOM SAD?
- being bad

HOW DOES MOM MAKE YOU LAUGH?
- kisses me

WHAT WAS YOUR MOM LIKE AS A KID?
- like me, we were both kids.

HOW OLD IS YOUR MOM?
- 34

WHAT IS YOUR MOM'S FAVORITE THING TO DO?
- go to restaurants

WHAT DOES YOUR MOM DO WHEN YOUR NOT AROUND?
- do laundry
(that's me the laundry lady)

IF YOUR MOM BECAME FAMOUS WHAT WOULD IT BE FOR?
- making a cartoon
( huh??)

WHAT IS YOUR MOM REALLY GOOD AT?
- loving us
(my sweet boy)

WHAT DOES YOUR MOM DO FOR A JOB?
- housework

WHAT IS YOUR MOM'S FAVORITE FOOD?
- fish

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR MOM?
- when she does everything I say
(you wish buster..)

IF MOM WERE A CARTOON WHO WOULD SHE BE?
- Fred Flintstone
(thanks buddy...NOT)

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WITH MOM?
- We play mini golf

HOW ARE YOU AND YOUR MOM THE SAME?
- we both do chores

HOW ARE YOU DIFFERENT?
- by our age

HOW DO YOU KNOW MOMMY LOVES YOU?
- she tells me all the time

WHAT DOES YOUR MOMMY LIKE ABOUT YOUR DADDY?
- she likes kissing him
(ain't that the truth..)

WHAT DO MOMMY AND DADDY LIKE TO DO TOGETHER?
- go to Chinese restaurants

WHERE IS MOMMY'S FAVORITE PLACE TO GO?
- Boston Pizza's
(I am noticing a theme here, we do do more than eat)

Little J

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOM ALWAYS SAYS TO YOU?
- clean your room

WHAT MAKES MOMMY HAPPY?
- If I clean my room

WHAT MAKES MOMMY SAD?
- I don't know

HOW DOES MOM MAKE YOU LAUGH?
- I don't know
(ouch.. that hurts)

WHAT WAS MOMMY LIKE AS A CHILD?
- I don't know that either.
(your killing me here kid)

HOW OLD IS YOUR MOMMY?
- 24
(ok, that's better)

WHAT IS YOUR MOM'S FAVORITE THING TO DO?
- watch T.V

WHAT DOES YOUR MOM DO WHEN YOUR NOT AROUND?
- watches T.V by herself
(man I sound pathetic..nice image to leave with my kids.)

IF YOUR MOM BECAME FAMOUS WHAT WOULD IT BE FOR?
- you'd get penny's and make them into gold.

WHAT IS YOUR MOM REALLY GOOD AT?
- playing games with me.

WHAT DOES YOUR MOM DO FOR A JOB?
- keeping the baby healthy by eating healthy foods.

WHAT IS YOUR MOM'S FAVORITE FOOD?
- Rice, chicken, cooked carrots and peas, and that's it.

WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR MOM?
- that she is almost done being pregnant.

IF YOUR MOM WERE A CARTOON CHARACTER WHO WOULD SHE BE?
- Sponge Bob.

WHAT DO YOU AND YOUR MOM DO TOGETHER?
- cook and mini golf.

HOW ARE YOU AND YOUR MOM THE SAME?
- we have the same skin color.

HOW ARE YOU AND YOUR MOM DIFFERENT?
- your a girl, I'm a boy.

HOW DO YOU KNOW YOUR MOMMY LOVES YOU?
- because she's my mommy.

WHAT DOES YOUR MOMMY LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR DADDY?
- that she's married to him

WHAT DO YOUR MOM AND DAD LIKE DOING TOGETHER?
- to play kissing games at night.

WHERE IS YOUR MOM'S FAVORITE PLACE TO GO?
- Medicine Hat, AB
(um.. ok)

Sing me the Winter Blues

2009-03-01T22:33:00.000-08:00

"Winter is my worst day ever!", these are the words that came out of my 5 year olds mouth today. I think he has pretty much summed it up for our whole family.
The temperature really dropped this past weekend, so much so that we let our kids spend ungodly amounts of time playing Nintendo and watching T.V. We rented movies, ate take out and pretty much vegged. And while it was nice to spend time with the kids, doing nothing, one can't help but wonder if there isn't a better way to spend 8 months of the year then in front of the T.V?
I think this winter is particularly difficult because I am so big with the baby that the idea of trekking through the snow, and slippery sidewalks are both unappealing and dangerous. Our kids are pretty young also so they get cold fast and all the effort of actually getting them bundled up and out the door is lost when they reappear 10 minutes later complaining of the cold.
Yes I think it may be time for a change. We still have a commitment here for sometimes, but as I am sure I've mentioned in another post, change may be comin'.

I wasn't tagged... I just copied

2009-02-27T20:09:00.000-08:00

3 Things - Flutter posted her 3 things, I enjoyed reading it, I too am in a bit of slump so here goes. And remember Flutter, copying is the highest form of flattery. :O)

3 Things that scare me:
1) something happening to my kids/husband
2) disease
3) mice

3 People who make me laugh:
1) My hubby of course
2) Jamie (good friend)
3) my kiddo's

3 Things I Love:
1) nice earrings
2) summer
3) cute shoes

3 Things I hate:
1) crowds
2) dirty kitchen
3) acid reflux

3 Things I don't understand:
1) people who don't want to help themselves
2) sudoku
3) chemistry

3 Things on my desk:
1) scented candle
2) plant
3) scraps of paper

3 Things I am doing right now:
1) Trying to ignore the T.V show that is on right now because it's violent
2) Rubbing my belly, the baby is kicking up quite a fuss at the moment.
3) Hating this insane acid reflux.... Ohhhh it burns!

3 Things I want to do before I die:
1) Go with my family to Israel
2) Take a train ride through BC
3) Loose all the pregnancy fat I have been carrying around for, oh let see, 7 years!

3 Things I can do:
1) Play guitar
2) Twirl a pen between my fingers
3) Understand investing... well sort of.

3 Things I think you should listen to:
1) Yourself
2) Classical guitar
3) One of my favorite songs...

3 Things I don't think you should listen to ever:
1) A colicky baby
2) Negative people who just want to bring you down
3) Gangsta music

3 of my absolute favorite foods:
1) West Indian food
2) Sushi
3) Panini's

3 Things I'd like to learn:
1) Japanese cooking
2) Hebrew
3) Photography

3 Beverages I drink regularly:
1) Water.....luv water
2) Wine... oh I miss wine
3) Cafe mocha's ... YUM

3 Shows I watched when I was a kid:
1) Duke's of Hazard
2) Three's Company
3) Smurfs

It's starting to set in..

2009-02-24T21:59:00.000-08:00

I am starting to get freaked out about labour. I have done it twice before, I know it's not a joy ride. I am not one of those lucky three women in the world, who I've read about, that had an orgasmic labour mine are painful, exhausting and scary just as I am sure yours have been.
With my first I was terrified because I had never experienced it before. All I know is I wanted the pain to go away any way possible. The epidural did that for me and for that I will be eternally grateful.
Just before giving birth the second time I came across an article pretty much stating that fear is where the real pain comes from. Your body gets tense and won't relax, and when that happens the contraction become more painful. They advised seeing the contraction as a large muscle that is being worked at hard like when your at the gym. It's your muscles doing their job to push the baby out.
That article was stuck in my head and I really believe it helped me during the second labour as I could visualize this large muscle working hard to push out the baby.
Even knowing all this panic is starting to set in. Labour is definitely on my mind but it's all the changes that will come after. No sleep... AUGH! I have had wonderful full night rests for years, how am I going to handle little to no sleep again??
How am I going to handle 3 kids? Will I be horrible to the other two older kids as I am adjusting to being a mom to a newborn again?
I know I am complaining....I feel bad about it, but these thoughts really overtake me sometimes. I feel so over being pregnant. I didn't have the aches and pains like I have experienced with this baby. Tonight I was trying to clean up the kitchen, I had shooting, sharp pains in my lower back and leg so I crawled into bed with a hot water bottle. When my husband came to find me I started crying because I am so frustrated with my body. We have been living on hamburger and pasta because I have constant contractions when I am grocery shopping and I can't get a full grocery.
Sorry, I am feeling whipped tonight I guess. Sometimes you just have to vent and lucky you guys get to be my audience. Sorry.
I'm sure I'll feel better tomorrow.

The Love Dare

2009-02-21T22:59:00.000-08:00

I had watched a review of 'Fireproof' on Dr.Phil this past summer. I would venture to say that once I realized Kirk Cameron was the lead actor in the show, and that it had a religious element to it, I sort of disregarded it. I had seen previous work by Kirk Cameron in the Left Behind series and wasn't too impressed. I thought this show would be poorly acted and maybe a bit cheesy.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the movie. I laughed and cried and felt convicted while watching this struggle that went on between a man and his wife. The selfishness and bitterness that had festered in this relationship had me looking at myself, wondering where I might harbour the same feelings.
No marriage is perfect and sometimes it's so easy to keep record of the other persons rights and wrongs. To see what is lacking, all the short comings can be all we focus on, and yes some grievances are legitimate and maybe some of his are also.
I think what I really learned from this show is in the end disappointments will come in life. People will always let us down in one way or the other, spouses included. It's so easy to let arguments take over, issues about who did what to whom and why, we can go around in circles asking ourselves how did we get here, how do we get off this merry go round of accusation and find a solution? How do we find peace?
This movie points out that to give love, we first have to receive love from God. To know that we are loved in our weakest state, to know there is forgiveness for all our mistakes.I'm not a preacher, I'm not trying to preach, but I feel like I had a bit of a revelation tonight.
My marriage has it's ups and downs, things can feel overwhelming sometimes, finger pointing happens and it never solves anything because whether it be the next day, the next week or in a few weeks I will disappoint my husband yet again, and he me. At which point do we start our finger pointing yet again, have another argument, yet again? It's exhausting and futile.
Perhaps not going to that place of judgement and instead walking in understanding and forgiveness. To crush down that first instinct to become offended and defensive to embrace loving that person. Wow even writing this is hard because it so goes against what some of my first instincts are. Maybe that's a good thing....
Have I reached a new level of Zen in my life?? HARDLY!! This will be going against myself in such a harsh way I may have a half chewed up tongue from biting it so hard when all I want to do is assert myself and my rights to my spouse.
All I know is finger pointing, and listing off eachther's faults and shortcomings isn't working. Maybe walking in love, working it out with forgiveness sprinkled with a healthy portion of grace will work.
Fireproof is a movie worth watching, the acting isn't the best, but it has one of the best messages I've seen in a movie in a very long time.
Here is a trailer for the movie...

Quotes of the day..

2009-02-19T19:53:00.001-08:00

"Grow up and be a man, stop hurting the woman who loves you."
"Dig deep, grow the hell up, and be in this relationship"

Private Practice had some good ones tonight.

Breastfeeding

2009-02-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

Today as I was watching TLC's Bringing Home Baby show they showed the mother breastfeeding her baby. This little baby is nestled up close to it's mother, big brown eyes looking up while he's suckling and the mother is rubbing his face and head. What a beautiful picture.
With my first baby I was so insecure about breastfeeding, as I am sure most new mother's are. I had so many friends that talked about THE NIGHT thier milk came in, how it was squirting across the room, how their young babies were choking on the heavy flow of this creamy milk. I never had that experience, and because I never did I didn't trust my body that it was making enough. I ended up suplimenting and eventually my oldest son soon learned that milk comes instantly from a bottle where as with mommy I have to work to get it to come. At four young months old my first born was done breastfeeding. Oh I tried to get him back on, and after many days of trying he and I were both crying and frustrated. I was so sad to say good bye to that special time, it was so hard at first, so painful and after all that effort we were done.
With my second I went in a bit more confident. I actually do remember THE MORNING when my milk came in, I actually was wet all down my PJ's. I remember sighing a sigh of relief thinking that this is how I now know my milk is in. I ended up breastfeeding my son for 2 years. I was amazed it went that long, I actually thought that if I can make it to at least six months this time I will feel like I'd succeeded.
My second child caught on quick, I was more confident and I wasn't feeling too tied down with him wanting to nurse for that long of a time. Eventually, I believe it was right after he turned 2 years old, he was done. Again I was a little sad, mostly ready myself for independace, but I knew I would miss it and I did. But life goes on as it should.
Now preparing for my third child to be born within a few months I feel the desire coming back, a longing for that sort of bonding experience with my new baby. In my opinion there is nothing more special then that little body so close, making eye contact and just being there to enjoy to experience.
Let me also say I am not looking forward to cracked nipples, again, maybe mastitis, feeding the child every hour around the clock, oh man I am psyching myself out now. I know it's hard, but maybe just like child birth and all the pain and labouring we do to bring forth new life, we do forget and we do it again, and we think of it as the greatest day of our lives is the way I view breastfeeding.
Now let me add I know breastfeeding isn't for everyone. Some choose not to, some find it too difficult, inverted nipples, ect... At the end of the day we all bond with our babies whether it's by breastfeeding or bottle feeding. I am just saying for me it was a positive thing for my family, and I am looking forward to it again.

Good Fences Make Good Neighbours

2009-02-17T11:40:00.000-08:00

In the past there seemed to be an ongoing theme in most of my friendships, I was the one who listened while everyone talked and dumped out all their feelings or problems to me. I have read books about this and had some council on this from valued older friends who gave great advice, especially my husband. Realizing now that I don't have to solve, or try to solve people's problems I feel like I may have gone from being a doormat to steering clear of people that seem to have no filter.
The last crazy 'friendship' I had that was from a girl who I had met once before, we seemed to hit it off so we decided to go for coffee together. She ended up pouring out her marital problems, crazy religious experiences, you get the picture. I ended up coming home feeling totally drained and sick. My husband went on to tell me to end it immediately. So I avoided her and I think she got the picture, finally.
I sometimes feel like I have the words 'dump here' tattooed on my forehead.
Anyway I have tried to steer clear of those relationships and I feel like the girlfriends in my life now are great and we share things back and forth. I love my girlfriends (NO this is not about any of you guys).
Recently I have come across a new relationship with a lady here in my town, she has been very helpful to me since we've come here, but she is completely draining! She talks and talks and doesn't stop. We go from hearing one problem to the next, there are times when she has forgotten what she told me an hour earlier and will go on to explain the whole thing again. I feel frustrated by her, I dread when she calls me because I know what the conversation is going to be like and for how LONG it will be.
I don't want to hurt her feelings, she's a nice lady, but come on, I don't have enough hours in the day to sit and listen to someone ranting and raving, nor do I want to sit and be dumped on.
We are planning to go out for coffee this week, as you can tell I am not looking forward to it, I will just have to man up and try to control the conversation as best as I can.
I'm frustrated.....

Small Successes

2009-02-13T08:00:00.000-08:00

I came across this idea from another Blogger's site. I've tweaked it a bit to make it my own and to fit my idea of what I want to write about. Gratitude Friday is about writting about the small success we as moms have had throughout the week. To focus on the positive little things we've accomplished. Here are my 3 small successes:

1. Decorated the house for Valentine's Day. It is important to me to make certain day's fun and exciting for the kids so they'll have memories to look back on with a smile. I plastered pink and red hearts on our windows, made them surprise Valentine's Day buckets full of chocolates and small toys. It is even more fun for me to do something fun/a little embarrasing for my husband so I put together an adult fun bag just for us!!

2. I made all our meals from scratch this week. Being pregnant and feeling tired alot of the time the temptation to eat out more then we should is a constant battle of mine. This week I was able to push past the fatigue and cook some homeade meals, 2 of which were fish, now that NEVER happens.

3. We've been fairly consistent in our before bed devotionals with the boys. Most nights I am counting down the minutes till their sweet, argumentative heads hit the pillows. Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately , I have two little male voices constantly reminding me that we HAVE to do devotionals as a family before bed. So I throw my agenda to the side and we do devotionals, and we love doing it! :O)

These are my small succcesses for the week, and I'm proud of them. I'd love to hear yours if you feel like writing about it!

Sillyness

2009-02-10T20:47:00.000-08:00

Yes I am a little stumped as to what to blog about today, this is just for fun. If you want to be tagged go ahead and do it, let me know. Cheers!

1. YOUR REAL NAME: sorry, this is the web after all....
2. WITNESS PROTECTION NAME:(mother and fathers middle names): Josephine Gerard
3. NASCAR NAME:(first name of your mother's dad, father's dad): Joseph Raymond
4. STAR WARS NAME:(the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name): Jobjo
5. DETECTIVE NAME:(favorite color, favorite animal): Olive Kitty
6. SOAP OPERA NAME:(middle name, town where you were born): Dawn Regina
7. SUPERHERO NAME: (2nd fav color, fav drink, add "THE" to the beginning): The Blue Margarita
8. FLY NAME:(first 2 letters of 1st name, last 2 letters of your last name): Jose
9. STREET NAME:(fav ice cream flavor, fav cookie): Chocolate Ginger Snaps
10. SKANK NAME: (1st pet's name, street you grew up on): Gin-Gin James
11. GANGSTA NAME:(first 3 letters of first name plus 'izzle'): Jodizzle!
12. YOUR GOTH NAME:(black, and the name of one of your pets): Black Willow
13. STRIPPER NAME: (name of your fav perfume/cologne, fav candy): Moondance Turtles

A Milestone of Sorts... I Suppose

2009-02-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my husband came home from work, gave me the once over and made a comment only a husband would make.
" I can tell you are getting far along in your pregnancy because the size of your tummy actually makes your huge boobs look small." Thanks hon, REAL sweet! :O)
Just for clarification, my breasts may be bigger then before kids, we all know that happens, but let's just say my body has been a bit overly generous with fat distribution in that area over the last few years. Something I hope exercise and perhaps a 'boob job' will rectify. Oh to go back to a B cup... lovely.

Catch Up Weekend

2009-02-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

This past weekend some old friends of ours came for a visit. It has been years since I've seen them, although my husband has had more opportunities to visit them then I.
Sometime ago, due to our differences in belief, a strain had been put on the relationship. I was over zealous in sharing my thoughts and my friend became offended. I had apologised but truly things were never quite the same since. We recently reconnected via email. She had actually wrote me in a bit of a confrontational manner asking if we wanted them out of their lives. Long story short there had been some miscommunication over the Internet and feelings were unintentionally hurt. (can you imagine miscommunication over email... NEVER)
Because of all the drama that had gone on this weekend was important because both of our families wanted to come together and reconnect.
We ended up having a great time, lots of talking and catching up and it feels like time has never passed really. We still have our differences and they are very obvious, but I think we've both mellowed out and realized it isn't worth debating any longer.
Our kids got along so nicely so we will be doing this again once our baby is born. Here are a few pics of the kids having fun.

From the Mouths of Babes

2009-02-05T18:29:00.000-08:00

You have to wonder if God is trying to teach you a lesson. Maybe, or shall I say quite probably, I am too busy with my busyness that I don't take the time to be quiet and reflect on what I am doing. Maybe that still small voice that is attempting to capture my attention is being blocked out by the T.V, computer, what have you I suppose you get my drift.
Tonight as I am trying to be a fun mommy, I decided to take my boys out to dinner. As we were driving I was behind an older gentleman driver, and if I can put it nicely, was taking his sweet time. So I made a rather rude comment, something along the lines of, "C'mon grandpa, pick it up."
My youngest then asks me if I love my neighbour? I kind of know what he's talking about but I go ahead and ask him what he means. My oldest son pipes up and tells me it's about loving people. (punch in the gut!) My youngest then quotes a Bible verse to me about loving your neighbour as yourself. So as I continue driving feeling like a total schmuck my youngest goes on to tell me, in his sweet little voice, that I wasn't being very nice to that older man.
Feeling like I had been thoroughly been put in my place I told them they were right and I shouldn't be rude because the Bible tells us to treat others how we want to be treated.
This is one lesson I won't soon forget.

A Lovely Night

2009-02-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

As I have mentioned I just turned 34, wow, honestly when I was 20 years old 34 seemed like middle age. So naive I was... I really feel quite young or I did until getting pregnant. This pregnancy is showing me my age, I have aches and pains I don't remember having with my other two. All in all though I feel like I am entering the best part of my life. To think of going back to my early 20's holds absolutely no appeal to me, all the angst and drama of trying to figure out life and who I am, no thanks. Been there, done that, have the battle scars to prove it.
This year my husband took it upon himself to plan my birthday celebration all on his own. He ended up getting us a reservation at a very nice steak house, invited my parents and we had a great time. Then came my present!! For years I have talked about photography and possibly taking a class so I could get better. Well considering we were students any camera was pretty much a luxury we couldn't afford, especially a high quality one. He kept the notion in his head that one day we may be able to afford one and that is exactly what I received. A beautiful Sony camera along with an extra lens. This camera is quite a beauty and I am excited to use it, except I don't really know how to yet. The manual and I have a date for tonight.
Jay, thank you for a fun, exciting night that I will always remember. I should also thank my boys for behaving pretty good in a swanky restaurant, it was refreshing not to have to seperate them or threaten them with bodily harm if the whinning doesn't stop. :O)

Random Act of Kindness

2009-02-04T06:54:00.000-08:00

Melissa used to be my sons preschool teacher. She was wonderful and loved working with the children. A few months into the school year she suddenly decided to stop working at the preschool for some very personal reasons. We were all so sad to hear that she wouldn't be around anymore as the kids really loved and missed her, but wished her well.
A few months after she left my husband told me she had come by the pharmacy looking for work. She ended up telling him why she left the preschool and that she feels ready to try something completely new. She was placed in the cosmetics dept. and is a wonderful employee for us now!!
We have run into each other quite a bit and she always asks how my little guy is doing in preschool. I tell her it's not the same, and we really aren't too happy with it in general. Upon hearing that she one night turned up at my house with all her Montessori manuals, she also had written out a bunch of work book ideas to do with my youngest to keep him going with where she left off. This girl is a real sweetheart.
One night as we were out for supper I commented to her how good she smelt and asked what perfume she was wearing. She told me and said she thought it may be discontinued which was too bad because she really like it also.
This morning before my husband left for work he said Melissa gave me a gift for you. So I went into his bag to retrieve it, and it was a new bottle of that perfume. I was and am so shocked! I will be calling her later to thank her for being so kind to me.
I have some perfume on now and I'm loving how it smells, and every time I smell this scent I will remember her and her thoughtfulness.

25 Things you may not know about me....

2009-02-03T22:05:00.000-08:00

The lovely Flutter tagged me on facebook so I am responding to her tag, here goes...

1) Today is my birthday, I am 31..okay just kidding, I'm 34 (yikes)
2) I used to write poetry and I was asked to publish a piece many moons ago.
3) I was mugged when I was overseas, thankfully he dropped my wallet while he was running away and I grabbed it... JERK!
4) I can flip my eyelids.. it's kinda gross and cool all at once.
5) I had to have both 2nd toes operated on because the bone was growing wrong.
6) I was once put on the wrong city bus by my grandpa when I was 5 and ended up downtown in our city when I was supposed to be at my school.
7) I fell out of a moving vehicle when I was a kid, I was wanting to open the door before we came to a stop so I could be the first one out before my brother... I guess it worked. :O)
8) I was run over when I was 1 year old. Obviously I survived.
9) I stole a Raggedy Ann ring from a store when I was 6.
10) I used to be obsessed with Josh Brolin.
11) I play guitar.
12) When I am nervous I will pick at my fingers.
13) I used to want to be a Pink Lady, you know from Greece.
14) I watched the movie Sybil when I was a kid and it freaked me out for years.
15) I used to sneak out of my room and run around with my friends in our town.
16) While dating my one boyfriend I secretly had a major crush on his older brother and used any excuse to be around him.
17) I've swam in the Red Sea.
18) I enjoy crafty things.
19) I have a third nipple.... just kidding, making sure your paying attention here.
20) I love white tulips.
21) I used to work in a flower shop.
22) I prefer my toenails painted.'
23) I like popping zits... gross I know.
24) I wish I was brave enough to get a Brazilian.
25) I wish I had something interesting to blog about tonight.

So I am officially tagging Cocotte, and Waugdai!

Kicking Procrastination in the Butt

2009-01-28T19:37:00.000-08:00

We have been doing home renovations and while it has been nice to see the improvements and new colors appear a great mess has been left in it's wake. Our living room has become a sort of dumping ground of nic naks, magazines, tools and old furniture. It has been stressing me out for a few weeks now. I keep telling myself that on the weekend we will get it cleaned up, yet the weekend comes and goes and the junk remains.
Now knowing myself like I do I decided something had to be done. I called a couple of friends to come over for coffee, with their children, first thing in the morning. Now these are friends that I am slowly getting to know, they aren't the kind that drop in, see the house a mess, and still know your a good person. No, these friends are the kind you want to make an impression on, to keep the facade going that you can keep a wonderfully clean house all the time, no problem.
So as I said knowing myself as I do I knew this is the ONLY thing that would kick my procrastination in the butt and make me attack it. So I have attacked, it's not perfect but in the rooms where my friends will be it looks pretty darn good. Now let's hope they don't go into unmarked areas as they may be in for a shock, I promise I will get to those room on the weekend! :O)

Art Appreciation

2009-01-25T22:32:00.000-08:00

My husband loves classical music. He especially loves Opera. Usually after a long, stressful day he will take some time to sit, be quiet and listen to some of his favorite artists. Now this is something I have grown to enjoy over time, and there has been many a night that I have fallen asleep to Pavarotti playing lightly, there is nothing more relaxing.
We have wanted to instill a love for the arts into our children. While surfing on youtube the other day my husband found a little piece that captivated our youngest boy.
Hope you enjoy it...

Is the Grass Greener?

2009-01-24T22:26:00.000-08:00

After about one week of warmer temperatures this sudden cold snap that we are experiencing is like a punch in the gut with a big "gotcha" attached to it. For some ridiculous reason the warmer weather had me thinking about spring, excited for all the plans we have for our dirt heap of a backyard. It had me thinking about green grass, a new baby, birds and travel. Well as I said reality was like a cold, harsh slap in the face. Winter is here and still going strong.
Considering the place where I live, and the frigid weather there was nothing to do today but stay huddled up inside racking our brains about what to do to pass the day. There is one conversation I know, without a doubt, that I will be having and it's my husband trying to talk me into possibly moving to a more human climate.
It's funny, as I braced myself for this talk the regular feeling of my back going up, my argument of sticking close to home for family, that this part of Canada is one we are familiar with didn't leave my chapped, almost blue lips.
It almost took me back for a moment. Ever since we've moved to our little town, away from family and close friends, I have been trying to persuade my hubby that moving back at some point would be the best thing for us. I'm not sure I feel that way anymore.
Nothing crazy has happened in our family that makes me want to not live near them. When I really think about it I think it has been a good thing for us to be away. I figure if I can live and survive here, moving someplace further away and warmer would be alright.
So for most of the morning we cuddled together on the couch, hot coffee in hand and researched a few places here in the great north that indeed do have mild winters, hot summers and early springs.
A few areas have jumped out at us and we are looking at taking a road trip this summer to check out the city and surrounding area. A road trip with 2 boys and a 4 month old should be interesting, but we are looking at renting a house for the week once we get there. I am looking forward to it, and looking forward to seeing if the grass is greener.

10 Things

2009-01-23T09:51:00.000-08:00

A few years back, as I was watching Oprah, she had on some mature women who are choosing to age gracefully. These women talked about the pressures to stay thin and beautiful, to do whatever it takes to maintain that.
Oprah then went on to ask them if they could give one piece of advise to their younger self what would it be? So here are the 10 things I would tell my younger self.

1) Nurture the friendships you have, make them a priority in your life. Boys will come and go but your girlfriends are for life. Or they can be if you treat them right.

2) Forget the tanning beds. Wrinkles will come whether you believe it or not, so protect your skin.

3) Enjoy your time being a kid and teenager. Once you have passed that time there is no going back. Soon enough there will be a husband, children, and bills. So enjoy where you are at.

4) Surround yourself with people who make you feel good about yourself and what your doing. I remember all to well some so called 'friends' and they did nothing but make you feel bad about yourself.

5) Be kind to those you normally wouldn't think of associating with. Words hurt and that person is someone's child.

6) Continue on with your healthy habits and continue on in sports because it is a great deal more difficult to try to establish those healthy habits as an adult.

7) Don't start drinking coffee. Teeth loose their luster and your pearly whites WILL fade to a soft yellow.

8) Actually try in school. I don't regret all the fun, I don't even regret skipping class to go have some fun. Maybe try to keep a balance with it all.

These next two are to my young married self, man did we make mistakes, too many to count, but here are two pieces of advice I would want to pass on.

9) Travel and have adventures together before the kids come. Once they are here it's so much more difficult. Even if you can find reliable people to watch them, your heart is always back home wondering if things are alright.

10) Love isn't always a feeling. It's not butterflies, soft kisses and tender moments. (although it sure starts off that way) Love is seeing that person acting like a jack-ass and even though thinking to yourself at the time, 'what a moron' you can still go later and grab their hand and ask how their day was. Love is a constant, it's the liking part that goes up and down. Try to know the difference.

So my question is what would you tell your former self, given your life experiences. Look forward to reading the results.

Our little dance...

2009-01-22T22:23:00.000-08:00

Tonight my husband and I had a little tiff, so I left him in the basement to stew for a while. Usually when this happens one of us will come with a piece offering. Tonight was my turn to wave the white flag, so I downloaded one of our songs that we used to listen to, and probably made out to, when we were dating. I quietly sat at the top of the stairs, laptop on my lap and blasted the song for him to hear. Of course it was a mushy song about love and loss. Next thing I know he is chuckling and calling for me to come down. Of course I play coy and ignore him, he continued calling me until I finally relented.
After grabbing my hand and playfully teasing me I forgave him for being such a brute earlier, and he maybe forgave me for telling him to pipe it and maybe the words 'mouth piece' were uttered in there... it's not important. *ahem* Moving on, we got over it, laughed about it, and will probably do it again in a week or so.

Many Firsts

2009-01-21T20:59:00.000-08:00

I have to confess this pregnancy has been and I am sure will continue to be so different then the others. I attribute it to the 'fact' that I am having a baby girl. (fingers crossed) As I have sat and pondered this pregnancy and as the days go by and new symptoms appear I can't help but notice the differences.
I have had serious morning sickness with this baby. I have tried to get off the meds and I pay for that in the morning, so I have resigned myself to taking meds until birth-day.
I have NO bladder control with this pregnancy. I have to change at least once a day because I wasn't quick enough to cross my legs as a sneeze or cough came on. I can't tell you how frustrating it is to be all dressed and fresh and almost out the door when "a- achoo" hits, I am running to the bathroom and fishing for new underclothes. I am sooooooo over that!
I am quite, oh how shall we say this tactfully, "Randy Baby" Yes I must confess this time around I am actually in the mood. I don't know why ( 0f course my husband is wonderful and handsome) but he was with the other two also and at that time me and sex didn't go together. This is one first my hubby is happy, happy about!
Now this next one just appeared about 3 days ago. As I am sitting down for what feels like the first time that day, I ask my husband to pull off my socks because I can't really reach them. So when I glance down at my badly in need of a pedicure feet I realize I have NO ankle. My husband kindly refers to my tree stumps as 'kankles' I don't know what it means, I am sure it's rude though. Anyway I have swollen feet and calves. It has been 3 days now and they look brutal. I called a friend of mine to complain and so she can tell me all about the support socks she had just a few short months ago with her pregnancy. As I am relying my story and how ugly I feel and fed up, she tells me she had her compression stockings prescribed by her doctor because she had varicose veins all over from the waist down. Now when I say all over, I mean ALL over, you know what I am saying right, even in the nether regions. Poor girl. She did recommend them though so I am off tomorrow to get them.
There have been many firsts with this pregnancy, and I am trying to keep my head on straight about it, to laugh it off knowing it's only for a season. I am telling myself to enjoy all these firsts because it probably is your last kick at the can.

What is this at the bottom of the Barrel?

2009-01-17T21:52:00.000-08:00

I'm scrapping, I know, but I don't have anything to write about and I feel like posting so here it is.

value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Au5tfYq_hoU&hl=en&fs=1">
As of late my baby has been moving, alot. Of course I am only in my 28th week so the movements you just witnessed I am no where near. Watching this video, seeing that the only thing preventing this baby from reaching out to touch someone is a layer of skin. Kind of crazy.
It kind of reminds me of those old sci-fi movies where the implanted alien baby is ready to break out and take over the world.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FYI if you think you may want to rent the movie 'Step Brothers' with Will Ferrel- DON'T!! It is really rude, excessive swearing, I think an actual set of testicles is shown (gross). Honestly it tragically contrived and lame. Two BIG thumbs down!
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It's becoming more real, apart from my weight gain, and what looks like a beach ball in front, I realize this baby is coming. Today we set up my son's loft bed, put a mattress underneath it for my youngest son, transferred all the toys and 'junk' and it's done. The crib is put together, I know it's early but we didn't even know if we had all the parts so we wanted to make sure. The new stroller/car seat is in her room. All that is left to do is paint, and make sure it's a girl by begging for another ultrasound from my doctor.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- So that's it in a nut shell.

From Afar

2009-01-12T21:05:00.000-08:00

I am not sure how I came across this women's blog so many months ago, all I know is her story and her journey have captivated me. As I have read her many posts about her beloved Christian I have smiled, wept and gone into my children's room late in the night for an extra kiss.
It was only this past summer that her son, Christian, a 3 year old boy passed away. It was sudden and from what I can gather an accident.
In her very intimate and emotion filled posts one can sense the grief this women and her family are experiencing. Along with that you get a glimpse of a true women of faith and perseverance. Her mind is completely drawn towards heaven and the fact that she will one day be there to hold her precious child.
I have never commented on her posts, only read and admired from afar. It's hard to know what to write to someone who is grieving over a loss that seems incomparable. Through this women's journey I have been challenged in how I would handle a similar situation, even how I handle everyday life stresses and I am humbled. She is walking with grace, joy, pain and hope. She is going to make it, her family will survive this and her story will make us all realize what truly is important.

A nice memory

2009-01-12T07:52:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of our last outing with Willow, our dog.

She loved chasing the kids down the hill!

Thank goodness for daddy's, there is no way I would have been able to climb that hill more then once.

What a fun day!!

Maybe a little premature...

2009-01-12T07:41:00.000-08:00

This is our bedroom before we painted. I had forgotten to take a picture while our old furniture was in the room, but at least you'll get a glimpse at the before color.
These are the after shots..

We still have to replace all baseboards and trim, get our new bed and bedding, new window treatments, paint the closet doors and then the on suite. Man even thinking of all that makes me realize we've only just begun. Well anyway it's a little glimpse of what we've been doing this weekend. Next time I post it will be the finished product.

So good

2009-01-09T08:49:00.001-08:00

This is one of my favorite songs, when I saw that Seal sang it.. wow!

My Turn

2009-01-09T07:25:00.000-08:00

Here is my questionnaire extraordinaire...
1) What was the last thing you did before you came online today?
Made a cup of coffee, extra cream, and retreated to my bedroom.
2) Do you prefer a bikini panty or thong? Thongs kind of gross me out. I especially hate them when I am at the gym and some girl is changing and all I see is her butt cheeks with a piece of floss wedged in there... YUCK! Bikini briefs for me.
3) Latest product you've purchased? Bio Oil, it's supposed to help with stretch marks, we'll see...
4) Last book you read? Do instructions to a kids game count, sadly I haven't read a book in quite a while.
5) One childhood memory? I remember getting this really sweet one piece jumpsuit when I was about 8 years old. I was told NOT to wear it to go out to play. I sneaked it on, my friend and I thought it would be a great idea if I put on my roller blades and she would pull me around behind her bike. Of course I fell, put a hole in the knee and was scared spit less. I begged my friends mom to try to sew it together, she said I had to go and tell my mom. The lecture I received about how she wears old clothes and does nothing for herself put me to tears. I have always remembered that.
6) First Kiss? I was in grade 9 and dating a boy a few years older then me. We were at his folks place watching a movie and I could feel him looking at me, so I looked over and he made his move. Wet and sloppy..nasty! I pushed him away and said I should go home now. Funny, I never really heard from him again.
7) What color of nail polish are you wearing? I have turquoise on my toes, I can't seem to keep my fingernails in great shape when they are painted.
8) What are you wearing? Grey workout pants, slippers, and a long sleeved top. My husband loooovvveess this look! :O)
9) Last phone call? I called The Brick ( a furniture store) to see if they would price match a flat screen T.V for us.
10) One New Year's Resolution? Eat more fruit and vegetables.
11) Something new you want to try? I want to start making jewellery.
12) Something you haven't done for a while and want to start up again? You mean besides exercising? Well I want to start knitting again. I find it relaxing.
13) Favorite chocolate bar? Turtles!!
14) Long glamour nails or short nails? I love the look of a manicured hand. Can I do all my chores around the house and keep that look. Nope, I go for the short clean look myself.
15) What color is your bedroom? Cherry red ( this was here when we bought the place) In a couple of days it will be a lovely green though.
16)Favorite season? Easier to say my least favorite, winter. The other three seasons are my favorite.
17) One pet peeve? Elderly drivers.
18) Do you make your bed every morning? ...No?
19) What is the first post you ever wrote about? My first post was in 1995, I guess I was sort of introducing myself to the blogger community.
20) Did you enjoy this questionnaire? Yep!
21) Not done yet, one more thing, post a picture that makes you feel good.

It happened to me

2009-01-06T21:48:00.000-08:00

Last year I attended a women's group at a church in my area. It was a great time of fellowship, food and great speakers. There was one speaker in particular, Marlene, who was quirky, cute and had the funniest stories about raising her children.
I have always remembered the time she told about getting stuck in the snow while driving her kids to school. That morning she threw a parka over her housecoat and P.J's, hopped in the vehicle only to get stuck on front of her kid's high school. She told of the horror on her kid's faces as she climbed out of the van, looking crazy, with all their friends watching as she flagged down help.
We all had a great laugh over it, and it has always stuc in my mind to be careful what you wear, you never know.
Well today was the day. I have to say I was dressed but I decided to forgo the socks and boots and just wear my slippers. Everything was fine until we discovered my son had forgotten his snowpants. Seeing that we had a few minutes and that we only live a few blocks from school I decided to pull a U-turn and return home for the snowpants. BIG MISTAKE!!
So there I am stuck, wheels spining, completely cutting off trafic, no mits and slippers. What do I do? So I tell my son to go to school, I hope out of the van and start digging with my hands trying to remove the snow so I can get some traction. By this time five vehicles are at a stop, waiting for me to move my big van and I am not going anywhere. I keep spinning my tires, my feet are frozen as well as my hands. I start to get a momentum going, I feel like I may break free from this ice and snow, and finally, finally a compassionate soul comes and gives me a big push and it's over. I thank her profusley and wave as I drive home taking note I might add that the other vehicles waiting for me to clear the way all are men drivers, not a one asked if I needed help, just waited for me to break free from the snow. Tsk, tsk!
Lesson learned, never leave the house unprepared.