One Day At a Time

Word for 2012

2012-01-20T15:38:00.000-08:00

So I have had this word on my heart for a while now, and ironically enough I figured it was time to write it down because this week it has already been put into practice. My word is a little different than others as its not an adjective or a verb, but a noun. My word for this year is HOME. After working crazy shift work hours for the past year and a half I was missing being at home with my girl so much because I really loved the time and place we were in right before I went back for work. And the great thing about working part time is that it really makes you appreciate the time you do have at home. The hardest part for me was weekends. I hated working weekends because I wanted to be home with my two favorite people desperatly. So you would think when I went on medical leave back in December as an early start to mat leave, as i was physically just done with my job(pregnant on your feet, in a physically demanding job 30 hours a week, not so fun*grin*), that I would be thrilled. And dont get me wrong, apart of me was, but there was another part of me that was terrified of starting what felt like a new life, again, for the millionth time. I am a creature of routine, I thrive in routine and consistancy, but for the past few years we have not had that at all..well actually ever since we got married its been that way to the point that I finally starting to accept the fact that this is just life:)*grin*
Anyways....back to how my word came about:) well, when I went on mat leave the first time, it was good, but there was days a was definitely bored. I don't have a huge community out where I live and I wasn't going to get in my car multiple times a week to have entertainment. Plus, lets face it, play dates and going places is a lot easier with a baby vs a toddler:) So now this time around its a whole different world. Play dates get complicated because babies just don't lay there anymore..toddlers move, and talk and fight..and and, so thats a whole new world. Its great in the spring and summer when they can run free, but confining a few in a home for a few hours can get nutty:) We still do it, but again, not the same! Going anywhere with a toddler is just different, and well my kid likes to be home. We do a lot and try and go on adventures, but on a tight budget in the winter this gets tricky:) So again, going on leave made me panic a bit. I knew I would be busy once the baby comes, but trying to think of things to do to keep my 2.5 year old busy 7 days a week seemed a little daunting. So this is how I came about to my word. The last couple of months i have been on quite an interesting process with God, and its been really good. trying at times, painful, as most emotional and spiritual growth spurts are, but good, really good. So with this new baby soon to arrive, I really have been trying to come to accept my soon to be new circumstances, and this week was a great test of these circumstances. I love my home, I love being at home, I love my down time, I love being with girl...but, I also don't do well being isolated. I am an extrovert, I need people, they energize me, fill me and make me better. And I can feel that when my cup doesn't get full. So this last week with our lovely snow storm, and being stuck at home all week was quite a challenge for me..but I have to say, I did great! I felt really calm and at peace and wasn't going to crazy at all. Nutty at times, and disappointed in fun plans that had to be cancelled, but I made the most of it. I know this next season of my life is going to have me home a lot, and I am really trying to find peace in that, and find little things to do that don't take me away from being present for my kids but still fill me in my home environment and bring me joy:) So that is my long winded answer at how I came to my word...finding contentment in just being at home with the people who need me most, but yet getting that balance of me time to fill my cup and rejuvinate so that I am better for them!

Home Projects:)

2012-01-11T15:40:00.000-08:00

Over the month of December my hubby had some time off so we decided to make the most of it and get some stuff done around the house! it was great! Here are some of the stuff we have been busy doing!! First though a picture I took today from the view in our living room! what a gorgeous day!! My apple tree:)

We painted both Addyson's room and the baby's room over the holidays:) Addy's is a full on pink princess room as you can see;) I hate indoor pictures with my camera though as they never do things justice:) but its fun and bright and girly:) The bookcases were an idea off of pintrest! I love them! Ikea $7 spice racks painted white! I have found some great things off of the site and put them to good use....quite proud of myself actually:)
The first project we painted was this old toy chest. It was mine:) My grandpa built it for me when I was seven:) Twenty two years later its in my little girls room:) it was aged with tacky old stickers. We slapped some white paint on it, put a new handle on, and put these stickers my mom gave addy for christmas, and again, a great new addition to her new princess room:)
Addy's old changetable. It was $30 from walmart, beech wood like the little stand we have next to it. Again, slapped on some paint, and walla, it looks antiquey and new;) Its in the baby's room:) we painted it a dark grey which turned out a little bluer than expected, but a love the color, and know that I can accent either blue or pink, or yellow, depending on what the sex is!

!

Spice racks! I bought these at Ikea, and than painted them! I love having them, and not having to worry about digging through my small spice cupboard for stuff! And they filled that whole on the wall so perfectly:)

My hallway with my first attempts at canvas pictures;) loved doing these and can't wait to do more:)! That wall will be filled with more once this baby makes its arrival!

this is the bookcase in the babies room:) it used to be a beech wood color, cheap from Home Depot. We painted it and removed the crappy back part! I love it!
Anyways, there's some of the things we have been busy doing:) It was fun, and I love seeing Cost effective projects come together! The paint we used for all the furniture is one of my new favorite things! its called Ann Sloan chalk paint, and i am addicted:) Its called Chick paint..for a reason:) Super low VOC, and easy to use! We didn't have to strip any of our old furniture you just paint over top! its really popular to do distressed and vintage furniture! Anyways, thats my plug for that product..again I love it! We have my granny's old dressers from the 1960's that we are going to be repainting for Addy's room. And its probably toxic old oil paint..so no stripping, no fumes, just going to put the coat of paint over top! I will be back with the before and after for that:)!

I recommend

2012-01-05T14:12:00.000-08:00

I found this website on pinterest and it looked great! I recommended checking it out before but I hadn't tried anything from it yet. However, I have tried a few things from her site so far, and its on my blog roll, but this one is definitely one of our favorite dinners right now! Oh, and if our modification, because who doesn't love cheese??:) melt some cheddar cheese on top! Delish!!

http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2011/07/taco-pasta.html

Taco Pasta
Source: adapted slightly from Fake Ginger

1 pound ground beef or turkey
8-12 ounces medium pasta shells or other small dry pasta shapes
1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes with mild green chilies, drained (if making this for kids you might want to use just plain diced tomatoes)
1 packet (4 tablespoons) taco seasoning
3 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Salt and pepper

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Cook pasta according to the package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the ground meat over medium-high heat until no longer pink. A few minutes before the meat is cooked through, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Once the meat is cooked through, mix in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add in the diced tomatoes and taco seasoning and let simmer over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes.

Stir in the cooked pasta, cream cheese, sour cream and reserved pasta water, and continue stirring until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over medium-low heat 3-5 minutes to reduce the sauce a bit if it is still too thin.

Toss in the cilantro right before serving for some fresh color and flavor. Serve with a green salad.

One Month to go!

2012-01-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

One month to go till our new baby is set to arrive. Obviously it really could be anytime from now till 10 days after the expected day; as well all know, these critters have a mind of their own and show up when they want to!

I am so ready for this baby! I am so anxious everyday counting down the days till my Christmas..the day my baby arrives:) I think it being the second time around, knowing the outcome, a baby does really come out*grin*, and having a good age gap between these two kids makes me feel as prepared as I can be! I feel more relaxed and sure of the process and really knowing how little you need in the first while to survive. Diapers..check, sleepers...check, receiving blankets...check, boobs with milk...check:) really beyond that, its just details!
I am excited to have a doula this time around, and know that is really going to help! It takes the pressure off my mom and my hubby as last time things didn't go smoothly, and this time they don't have to carry all that stress of helping me except for being there for me emotionally, and loving me:)

Having had a c section the first time around I am really hopeful to have a v bac this time, but I have also come a real peace in the last two months about things, and trusting God that how ever this baby comes out, at the end of the day all that really matters is a healthy baby. and that is what I pray for. That, and having joy in whatever the circumstances are:)

It really is amazing how different things are the second time around. Not better or worse, just different, and i like it:)

I also cant wait for Addy to be a big sister. I am a little nervous at times at how things are going to go. The jealousy and temper's..not sure what this will bring, but overall I know she is going to be love this baby, and be a great big helper to me! She already loves to feed other babies their sippy cups or bottles, its quite endearing:)
Another part of me is a little sad to see this special time we have had together the last two and half years alone come to an end. That's why I really want to make sure to make it my mission to carve out special time just for me and her, as I cherish it so much and I don't want to loose that bond we have! So now its just a waiting game, getting through another week till I am full term and than wishing and praying every day for it to make its appearance sooner than later;) Otherwise I might end up with a valentines day baby! no better love than that:)!

Christmas recap

2011-12-29T15:11:00.000-08:00

Well, another busy season has come and gone:) Its hard to believe its almost January, but on the other hand it couldn't have come soon enough. Because for us that means only one month left till we meet this baby! ok, 5 weeks till d day, but really, we all know these critters have their own time line, so time will tell! But I felt like christmas was the last big hurdle to get through till the final stretch..and we are here!

Lets see, where to begin:) Well, I have been off work for six weeks now. Hard to believe! Looking back it has gone by fast! We have been busy with Christmas prep, house cosmetic reno's, and family stuff. Its come and gone quickly. We had a good christmas this year, a quiet one which was nice. Our Christmas's stay pretty much the same every year now which is nice. Christmas eve is church, and than back to our place with both sets of parents for apppy's and hanging out. Christmas morning we ease into the day with our girl, watching her open her presents from us and drinking coffee;) I made coffee cake this year for christmas morning which was perfect as we have a big waffle brunch at my parents. Around noon we headed over to my parents, where we spent the day with them my SIL and BIL, and granny. Its laid back, relaxing, gift filled, food filled and ends with some games. All in all a good day! Boxing day is always spent at D's parents with his side of the family which is always a little more of a gong show as there is a big difference between two siblings, plus spouses and one kid so far, versus 4 siblings spouses and 4 kids so far! A lot louder of a day, lets say:) But it was good. Its so neat watching your child form friendships with their cousins and become little people. Such a blessing to see!

Christmas through us a bit of a curve ball with Dave being off work for a good chunk of the time. Praying he heads back this week. Its nice to have the time together, but I am a planner and I don't like uncertainty and both D and I do better in a routine, as does our girl, so when everything gets thrown out the window it really throws us all off our game. So we continuously live in faith and lean on God and not our own understanding during these times, and hope for good things to come this year!

One of those good things of course is this new baby. As I said 5 weeks to D day, and at this point I am starting to get quite anxious to meet this little one and have it be a part of our daily lives;)
I am so incredibly grateful for the 2 and a half years we have had with our girl though and the individual time we have been able to give her, its been wonderful! Through all the tough times in life along the way; she has been our joy and our constant reminder of the hope we have in HIM.

So, that brings us to now I guess:) So the next month will be filled with some date nights, and birthday celebrations, down time, and house organizing. We moved addy into her big girl bed last month and that has been a huge Success! PTL! As I said, I am excited for whats around the corner and look forward to some consistency and peace this year; that's my daily prayer!

Acorn Squash Soup

2011-11-15T15:53:00.000-08:00

I made this last night and it was a big hit:) I recently got an immersion blender..which I love! Someone I work with was selling one she got as a wedding present, and hadn't used, nor did she think she would...so I snapped it up! So I was excited to use it for the first time last night:) And I loved it! So much easier than transferring the soup to the blender and then back into the pot. So if you don't have one, I highly recommend one!

Ok, so the recipe!

2 Acorn squash

Olive oil

salt

pepper

1 tablespoon of unsalted butter

1 yellow onion

3 stalks of celery, chopped

1 tbsp of sage

6 cups of chicken broth

1/4 tsp of nutmeg

1/4 tsp of cayenne peopper

1/2 cup of freshly grated parmesan

My modifications to the recipe-well first of all it called for butternut squash, which I couldn't find so I used acorn, and it was yummy. Also instead of nutmeg I used all spice to give it a little more kick! I also added some curry:) just cause I like it! I also added a little half and half, like 1/4 cup..just cause I can, and it was really yummy. I also may have added a little more cayenne than called for, but again we like some kick in our food:)!

Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees (f). Cut the squash into pieces, about six a squash. Lay them on a baking sheet skin side down, drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper. Cook for about 30 min or until soft/pierce with a fork easily.

In a dutch oven or large stockpot, heat the butter over med heat. Add the onion, celery and sage, sautee till translucent. Once the squash is done, spoon it out of the skin and into the pot with the other veggies. Add the broth, all spice, cayenne, curry and a little more salt. Bring to a boil. Than lower the heat and simmer for about twenty minutes adding in 1/4 cup of half and half. At this stage it will tell you to remove it from the heat and transfer to blender to puree it, but again I just stuck my immersion blender in there and walla! it was done:) I also forgot about the parmesan cheese part..which I will try next time, but basically top with paremesan cheese and croutons. I topped with sour cream because i love sour cream in my squash soup..either way it will be delish!! Enjoy..we sure did..Dave couldnt stop talking about it..all night:)

Happy Candyween:)

2011-11-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend Addy and daddy did some pumpkin carving, which more equalled daddy carving and addy supervising:) It was pretty cute as she didn't want to touch the "dirty" pumpkin..such a girl! At thanksgiving time we had her paint a pumpkin which she did last year, and is something that we will continue to do..something fun, something different that the littles ones can do themselves! Than last night we headed out for some candy stashing! We have taken addy out the past three years and will continue to do so, but halloween isn't something we want to glorify, but its something that we have turned into a fun family night. The last couple of years we have gone out with her cousins, but with one of them moving this weekend, and one set of grandparents gone away right now, it was pretty low key. Going forward I would like to do it more in a group with friends or family as it does make it that much more fun! All in all we had a great time and loved watching her reaction as random people at doors handed her candy! she was quite intrigued by this concept:)

On thing that I have to say though, is that I do get disappointed looking around and seeing costumes getting darker and darker...like when did Zombies come into fashion?? really?? That was hard for me.as well as screening some people's homes as they would come to the door with scary costumes and masks on. Again, people, at six thirty there are babies out there! Can't that wait till after eight?? so that is the part I wasn't really fond of. I guess we will see how it goes in the future. We can always re evalute and hit up some of the local church fairs they put on that night!

This

New food Blog:)

2011-10-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Just passing along another food blog that looks delish! Kid friendly crafts, yummy recipes, colorful and relative to life:) Yes its true..I am a little addicted to food blogs lately:)

http://www.ourbestbites.com/

The pumpkin patch

2011-10-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

Over the thanksgiving long weekend we headed to the pumpkin patch. We thought we would check out a different one than last year, and were really happy with our choice for the age addy is at and going forward! She had lots of fun jumping on the upside down trampoline., petting rabbits and goats, and of course all of the pumpkins that she loves! We had a great family day and look forward to doing it again next year..however we learned our lesson and we will not be going on the long weekend:)! it was a little nutty! But otherwise such great memories!

4 years today

2011-10-06T14:21:00.000-07:00

4 years today my world totally changed. In some ways more than I expected, some changes have been hard, but some have been amazing. Its funny, but on days when I feel hopeless about the future or that these temporary hard circumstances in our life are never going to end, I think about how much has changed in just four short years for me. 4 years ago today I married a man who I thought I loved dearly. I was infatuated, "In Love" so full of emotion and glee and excitement for what lied ahead. But little did I know the sometimes harsh reality of what it meant to be a MRS. They weren't kidding when they said marriage was hard! But the funny thing is that its not hard for the reasons I thought would make it hard. What I have learned in the past four years is that growing up is hard, life is hard, and marriage just takes the brunt of those realities. What I have learned is that marriage is such an amazing journey, like no other relationship you will ever have in human form. I love the security that marriage has provided, the friendship, the confidant, the coziness, and the place of feeling at home like never before. I love how bringing children into the mix makes you not just a couple anymore but a family, and for the first time since becoming a mom I feel that separation from my own parents..Like for the first time I can do this, I can get through things. Do I still desperately need their love and support, absolutely..but my go to now is my husband, because we are in this together;)

I say that I thought I loved the man I married on our wedding day, but what I realize now is that I had no clue what real love is..but now, finally, now, I feel like I am really starting to get it. Its not always sunshine and roses, there are some pretty dark valley's we have and are currently walking through, but our reliance on the lord and each other has brought a depth in our relationship that has taught me what real love is. Its not a feeling its an action. An action that is required to be put to use every day.

So looking back over these four years, sure there are things I think we both would say we would change..but absolutely there is no doubt in my mind that I would do it all over again:) I am grateful for this love that I have in my life, and the little loves it has given me along the way. I am hopeful and excited for the future and for what God has in store for us for the next four years! I am glad that I love this man more today than I did four years ago:) Now don't get me wrong..a few nights away kid free, some more date nights, lots more laughing and playing are things that I miss at times..but those things will come. Today I am just going to reflect and be grateful for where we are at and what we have done together..because I think we make a pretty good team!

Food blogger

2011-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

I came across this food blogger:

http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/search/label/Desserts on Pintrest..I personally have not tried anything from her site yet but some of these things such as taco pasta, cookies and cream cheesecake, and caramel apple cupcakes will probably be on my list of things to try! Once I try a recipe I will make sure to review it for ya:) but for now i thought I would pass it along..

and yes being pregnant and not barfy right now has made me obsessed with food!!

Crafty:)

2011-09-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

I do have a crafty bone in my body, a few actually:) but I tend to be a perfectionist in some areas so when I can't do things exactly the way I want to, I tend to not do it at all:) And with living on a depressingly tight budget lately, its been even harder! But I finally said screw it and got to work! I hit up the dollar store and grocery store, and whala! I saw this done a year ago on a day time tv show and thought it was cool! And than again, on pinterest recently! It makes me mantel feel like fall, and with my new Bath and Body works fall candles filling the air, it makes me happy! its also cathartic for me to do:)

My dollar store flowers against the brown paint that we have in parts of our house are making me depressed though! I have been wanting to paint since we moved in, and as soon as some uncertain things in our life get certain, that will be the first big project around here! I need some brightness:)! But otherwise i like it!

The results!

My little flower Girl:)

2011-09-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were involved with my dear girlfriend Zina's wedding:) Her love story is a pretty cool one. Not always romantic at times, lots of trails to overcome, but after four years her and her now hubby said I do! What was really cool about this wedding for me was that I have know the bride for ten years now, but I also have known the groom since elementary school. So being friends with both sides and being there to see the whole story unfold was such a great experience!

What was even more special was my little girl got to be a flower girl for the first time:)

I have to admit going into the weekend I was super nervous as, again, we all know how unpredictable 2 year olds are! But I have to say she did amazing, and this mama's heart was overflowing that day:) I couldn't have been more proud to be her mom in that moment..it was good:)

The whole weekend was a very busy one though that I don't wish to repeat anytime soon! I had my ultrasound on Friday afternoon, Dave was off work and had an appointment to go to, we quickly whipped home to get packed and were out the door by three o'clock. THREE hours later we were still sitting in traffic on the 99...it wasn't pretty:( So we missed the rehearsal, wasted a night in the car, I had a head cold..all in all we were done! We stayed at my brother and SIL, so we didn't have as long of a trek to go back, laid low that night and next morning and headed out to for the wedding in Kerisdale:) I knew as soon as Addy met the other little flower girl that would help, and I was so right! She loves older girls and immediately she had a new best friend:)

The held hands and walked down the isle like it was nothing! Again, a happy mommy heart:)

After the ceremony, we whiped out to North Vancouver for the reception, where my bro and SIL picked up our girl and took her home:) it was night to have a night off, but at the same time being sick and tired and hungry..I was kind of done:) The view of the city was lovely, and again I was so happy to see my friend beaming on her day!! The past four years of our lives have definitely been filled with weddings and babies, and newness which is always exciting, but also makes for a very full calender:) I savor the moments but also love the mundane of the in between where for me I have learned life really happens:) So until the next one..goodnight:)

Thicker Skin

2011-09-12T18:17:00.000-07:00

If anyone asked me if I thought parenting was hard I would say this. I don't find parenting at home all that hard. Tiring at times, yes..exhausting at times, yes!! But, the only times that I have struggled with being a parent, where you can't go to sleep at night, or let things go so easy is when it comes to parenting around other parents..thats when life gets tricky for me. I am a people pleaser by heart, I want everyone to "like" me, to make everyone happy, and to please. But now that I am married and my world also involves to people with very different personalities that I can't control, Ihave really had to grow and stretch my patience, my control issues, and overall learning how to let things just roll off my back..not the easiest task for me;) But I am learning. I am learning that when my 2 year old has a melt down in the grocery store; that that is life, and by tomorrow it will be forgotten:) I am learning that when crotchety old woman at my friends wedding this weekend, who are the "church coordinators" keep telling the little kids to be quiet while they are ever so patiently waiting to perform their tasks, and when they make a comment about how this is the problem of having young ones in a wedding..and than I look at my bride friend who just snickers with me..I just laugh it off:) Their issue not mine...I am learning that when I went for my ultrasound this Friday and joked how this baby couldn't stop wiggling, just like its sister, and that I am in trouble, and the ultrasound tech proceeds to tell me that sometimes thats the parents fault, when the child is so busy and I need to harbour her energy...I laugh, and ignore it:) Anybody know how to get a 19 week old fetus to sit still, you let me know:) Anyways, I am learning. I am learning to get some thicker skin, as it just has started. I am learning that I need to go with the flow, and work with the situation, and that I am not always going to make the right decision in the moment but those are learning moments, and those are great too! I am learning that as long as I am staying to true and authentic to what I believe to be true, and right with God, than nothing else matters. I am learning, oh how I am learning..

And than there are the moments that God gives us to keep us going..when people affirm what you are doing and what a fantastic little person you have;) and than the mommy heart glows..and it grows, and it keeps you going for the next round of punches, because at the end of the day its working.

First day

2011-09-08T20:36:00.000-07:00

I know this is just the beginning of firsts for my girl..and I know this is not the last of my tear filled days. Ok, so lets premise this by saying, I am pregnant...and very very over the top hormonal right now:) ok, so lets move on!

So, today was the first day of Addy's dance class. First of all I thought I signed her up for a fun recreational class that would last for eight weeks. Oh no, I signed her up for a full year apparently with a production at the end!! oh my...

Anyways, second stage of clueless mom part two..I didn't have my child decked to the nines in dance attire that would put me back a fine penny..woops..

So again, feeling like a moron. And than the class begins..oh wait, mom, you can convince your two year old to go in a class by herself with strangers while you stay outside..awesome...so I sat in my dress at the door smashed up so other moms could take pictures as my child ran back and forth to me completely clueless to what was going on. She seemed happy as she got to run around and there was music going..but than I looked to see that all the other little girls were listening to the teacher somewhat following her as they helped hands in the circle and did the hokey pokey..while my kid..well...she was dancing by herself in the mirror:) And of course running back and forth to give me multiple kisses:) So I am sitting there feeling like a smuck. My kids that kid, the odd one out, the free spirit in her own happy world, but the odd one out. And than the environment caught up with her, after I kept telling her she needed to stay in the room, and than the tears came:( and than the took her ribbon away and it was game over...

So needless to say, this hormonal mom who is completely clueless and has no clue what she is doing was overwhelmed, frustrated and wanting to cry with my baby girl. We will try again next week, but I am just not sure. I am not sure if my kids going to be one of these obliging cooperative kids, or the one who just wants to do her thing..she is two..and that's what I feel, but when you are spinning looking around at whats going on and feel completely out of place and like you are the odd man out, well, you panic. But what my head has been spinning about all day is I parented re-actively, but now I am trying to decide how I want to parent this situation. Do I just let her do what she wants to do, run in and out and see what happens..just go with it, until the teacher tells me otherwise, or do I tough love her and make her stick it out and keeping pushing her to stay in the class even if ends up in tears??? I don't know! I am trying to find this balance between not being a toddlers and tiara's mom, as that is NOT my style at all, but at the same time I don't want my kid to try new things, or be afraid, or give up...but is two too young to expect any of this???? again, I am so torn today, and the learning curves, with the lack of sleep don't make for a sane mama:)

What I do know is this...I stinkin love my kid, and think she is the coolest little person and the world, as much as I feel the social pressures, I want to rise above it and let me kid be who God made her to be:) That much I know to be true..the rest, well I guess one day I will figure it out:)

Maan Farms

2011-09-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

I have become quite a fan of groupon this past year, and its for reasons like these. Finding great deals to places I wouldn't normally think to go to, at a great price, and having a great day! Its a great source for entertainment! So a few months back I found a 50% groupon for a place called mans farm in Abbotsford, so this so this Saturday we went to check it out! It cost us a whole six bucks, which was totally worth it. The groupon was for two people, and she let us take addy in for free which was great because she said usually they charge for two year olds which I think is a little silly:) So I guess if we were paying regular price it would have been $18, and we were there two hours..not sure if it would be worth it. But again for $6 it was so worth it:) they had a great big sandbox, and slide, goats, bunnies and other great animals to see. A corn maze, sunflower maze and a little wagon/tractor ride that went to the edge of their property overlooking the fraser valley; it was beautiful! All in all a great afternoon and day off with my little family:) We finished the night off with a bbq and our annual croquet game with friends..such a great way to spend a Saturday!!

Searching for crickets with daddy!

The gorgeous view of the fraser Valley!
Sweaty baby:)
The sunflower maze!
Gorgeous Sunflowers!!

Baby #2~

2011-08-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

So I was thinking its time for an update, and I have some new pictures to post as soon as I download them! But for now I can finally share this:)! We are expecting baby number 2!! Its been quite the journey to get here this time around, but we are so grateful for Gods timing!

I am 14 weeks along. I had an ultrasound a week and a bit ago to confirm dates, and I was a few days further than the dates were originally saying. I figured I was though, as I tested at three and a half weeks pregnant because I woke up having hot flashes and having the overall stuffy I can't breathe pregnancy feeling:) So I tested that afternoon, and sure enough! I was over the moon!

I went for my pre-Natal appointment last week but they couldn't find the heartbeat. I wasn't overly worried as I just saw the baby a few days prior but still was not the best feeling. So I went back today and they found it! The little stinker was to busy last time and there was lots of static on the Doppler. But always a sigh of relieve to hear that precious repetitious sound:)

It again has been a very rough trimester for me. Sick, sick, sick. Not overly thrilled and some days I have ended up in tears from shear exhaustion, or because I am getting ready for work while my heads in the toilet..but the one thing that has kept me going is this time around I comprehend the results! I know the prize and I can't wait for it! Especially because I am pretty sure this will be our last...our baby:) Not closing the door for sure, but for now, I am feeling done! and other reasons of course, but again I say that now, we will see:)

But for now I am trying to push through the fatigue and nasuea and cherish this journey.

I will post pictures at a later date when my belly is cuter as for now I just look really bloated! I am still in shock at how large you get the second time around so early:) no muscle tone left I guess*grin*

So that is the news of the day!! Happy august everyone!

July 1st weekend:)

2011-07-12T15:10:00.001-07:00

They its summer but I don't believe it:) Its been rainy and gross around here overall. But every spare moment that we get to sneak out side and enjoy some plus 20 weather we are there!

I had to work canada day evening but in the morning I went to our local Canada celebration with my girlfriend for the morning:) The kids had fun checking out the farm animals, seeing big tractors, getting canada day stickers on their faces, and mostly going on a little train ride! I thinks its something we will definetly do in the future! I ended up working late that night and just got home in time to see the last of a few fireworks that we can see from our deck!

The next day Dave had to work in the morning, but got home in time for us to go out and enjoy the day as a family:) It was a lovely day. We hung out at the beach, had some lunch, played in the sand and addy met her first catapiller! Afterwards we went for gelato..delish! I love this age that she is at; where she is starting to enjoy the same things we do, not just run around and take off on me all the time like she did last year;)*grin* So it actually makes a relaxing day for this mama!

summer Funk

2011-06-27T23:15:00.001-07:00

Well its June 27th, I have spent maybe two hours in the sun this year thus far, I am pasty white, and not impressed. I don't think I ever remember a more depressing weather season...this has been horrible! The other day someone asked me how my summer was going..I said what summer?? I love summer, I love so much about it. I think if I could I would pick up and move to california pretty darn fast:) Dave and i are both beach bums, sunshine, outside, lazy days, cold drinks kind of people...so summer just fits us, its my outfit of choice:) Lets not even talk about the closet full of adorable summer dresses my girl has waiting to wear...so sad:( I know, pathetic, but it really is these little things that make me happy, and when they disappear they make me sad! So I wait patiently for the sun. we had a little taste of it yesterday and it was lovely. I got home from work about two, we had some friends over for a bit and I actually got to sit out on my deck and soak up some fresh air and sun! Afterwards we headed down to our itty bitty backyard, and it was lovely! I laid on a blanket while addy played in her sandbox, and Dave beside me..it was perfect. What made it even more perfect is every once and a while my girl would come over and hand me a leaf, put her sweet little hand on my back and give me a kiss..so precious she is:) So that is my summer calling, my plee for some sun!!! and now I am done..

ok, rant number two. So we live in a townhouse complex, and the only thing I don't like about the place we reside in is our strata. Well, a few people in it, our strata fees, and well, a few people in it. So here is what my rant is about. We have this family on the corner unit, at the top of the steap hill you have to climb up before looping around to the left. So yes, our complex is steep and windy with turns. So these people like to be our speed police. Now going up a windy very steep hill in a town house complex doesn't allow for a fast speed, especially in an older car. But everytime they manage to stick out there hands and give the death glare with the disapproving shaking of their head like what is wrong with you...slow down!! Ok, so here's my issue. the reason why they get so huffy really has nothing to do with their overall concern for the complext its because they allow their young kids to play and ride their bikes on the street....which i personally have issues with. Its one thing if you live in a complex thats a cul de sac and not many cars coming through, but a busy townhouse complex thats hard to see around tight turns..it makes me nervous. I also am one who is ridiculously paranoid when it comes to kids and cars and safety; there are just too many horror stories for my liking..anyways, this lady got me really mad today, and that is my rant about it..maybe its just me...but I am not to impressed about it especially when said lady doesn't have the guts to come and say something to my face its just a dirty look through a window...

ok, enough of that now:) on to brighter things..tomorrow is my hubby's birthday so I am so looking forward to celebrating him and with him:) it will be quiet and intimate as its a Tuesday night, but also because we have to start saving our money and energy for the big 30th that will be happening next year!! so hard to believe:)!

Hope everyone is doing their best to make the most of this crappy weather as there still is so much good to be enjoyed around us!

Addy turns two!

2011-06-23T21:04:00.000-07:00

Two weekends ago now, we celebrated my baby girls second birthday! It was a three day long celebration! Friday night started with dave's side of the family, and celebrating Addy, my niece and nephew, as their birthdays are all within 5 days! Saturday was her friends birthday party:) We got plagged with illness which made the party a bit smaller than expected, but it was nice and intimate without too many meltdowns...so that is a pretty successful toddler party as I am learning now a day! We are so grateful to have so many great friends to celebrate our girls life with and so many great friends to walk this journey of parenthood with! Sunday, was day three, my famil, and our little one was quite puckered out. After church she opened presents and than went right to bed:) So we had a nice quiet adult conversation around the lunch table, and after she woke up we sang happy birthday and had more cupcakes..her favorite!!!

I can't believe my girl is two. It feels like yesterday and forever all at the same time that I have know this girl. At two years old, she is one smart cookie:) She has an amazing vocabulary and comprehnsion skills. She is full of joy and laughter, but a sensitive soul too. She is shy at times, and crazy at other times. She loves to sing, and walk her babies, read books, and run around! She loves out side, adores minnie mouse, and elmo too:) She is truely 100% the best thing I have ever done in my life! She is our joy, our light in the dark days, the thing that keeps me striving to better to do more, and to make this world a better place for her! Addyson grace, there are no words to truely express...my cup is overflowing with love for you..and may you always know it!

Dressing ourselves:)

2011-06-08T21:08:00.000-07:00

Addy chilling with her cuz:)
Imitating Elmo..one of her favorites right now:)

Putting iggle piggle to bed:) her new thing, playing make believe..I love it!

Sometimes we wear boots with pajamas because we are cool like that!

we also like to wear our canucks hat backwards with our oatmeal, again because we are cool:)

Basically we just like to wear our hat backwards all the time:)

And we like to walk like an old man in our moms wedding shoes:)

Well this is an update post on life. Its been a while:) but when I looked at the pictures over the last month, I realized that they had a theme...my almost two year old dressing herself! Crazy girl:) Never a dull moment in our household..never;)!

May was another busy month for us...no suprise there! Its amazing how much my life has changed in the past 5 years, and to be honest I don't think I have caught up to it yet..hopefully one of these days I will:) but for now, we keep going! May was overall a good month, from what I can remember. Between the exhausted, the wondering of whats going to come next and everything else that life brings, there was some fun moments. I started to get out more, which was good. I mean with work and everything I am out ALOT, but not fun out:) I started to play a bit, go out with my hubby to hear our friends band, see a movie with my girls, dinner out, girlsnights in..it was good. I need more of that in my life, it really does fuel my fire for life as I am a people person. Sometimes I just have to remind myself of that. but its hard, a never ending learning to balance it all..as the guilt of working three nights of week tells me I should stay home, or not leave Addy with nana again so I can escape for a bit with Dave..I fight it to remind myself, don't forget about you..because without you..meaning me, this ship doesn't keep sailing!:) so I have to continuely remind myself, like most of us mommies out there do; its ok, its ok to still want to have a life, live it, and love it!

So with that we move into June. Which has had an intersting start. We have got smacked down with some lovely car bills the last few months, another one coming, and than on top of the so much uncertainty regarding Dave's job. He was off for awhile which at this point means I will be taking a week off in July by myself, but he went back to work yesterday. and I praise God for that! I definetly can focus on the things that seem to continuely don't want to go "our" way but I am constantly reminded to be grateful for all the good in my life, and the blessings that do over flow..but its hard, I am human, I am selfish, and some days its just dang hard! But I know most of the time thats just fatigue talking, pure, exhaustion. So i give myself a cup of grace, and move forward, because all the good is in moving forward, perserving, finding the hope and loving what you have been given to love in this moment. We have lots of birthday celebrating to do this week, and that is so exciting! Addy turns two next week so this weekend will be FULL of celebrating, so I will be back with the updates on all that!

This is my something to love;) And its a pretty good something to love...good things to come in fair skinned, blue eyed little packages..she keeps my heart going every day:)

Movie Review

2011-05-12T12:02:00.000-07:00

I went this tuesday night with some girly friends to see this gem:) I loved the book series by Emily Giffen, one of my favorites actually! So I was so excited when I heard it was being turned into a movie! I have to premise by saying, I know the base of the plot isn't the most moral thing in the world, but he who cast the first stone..so anyways, I thought it was great! The actually was good, pee yourself laughing scenes, and just fun:)
I Also love going to a movie on a clear sunny night, when their is buzz that feels like summer time and makes you feel alive! It makes me excited, and having great company isn't so bad either:)! So if you like chick flicks..go see it!!

When I think of Easter..

2011-05-04T11:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am only a little bit behind here..not bad:) Easter has come and gone, and mothers day is right around the corner. Personally, they are way to close together this year!
On a quick side note, the sun is out today, so I am happy;) But of course I have to go to work! it always seems to work out that when the sun comes out its NOT on my days off;) Oh well, at least there are lots of windows at my work and I am sure lots of happy people and kids enjoying the glorious sun today!
So back to Easter..We have been watching the veggie tales Easter movie for what feels like a month straight now:) And I can't get the song out of my head.."when I think of Easter, when i think of Easter, when I think of Easter, I think about the lord..". Maybe that is a good thing:)
Good Friday we were off and running as Dave and I were leading worship at our joint service we always do with another church in town. It was great! A long morning though for miss Addy as were at the church at 9am and didn't leave till almost 1, but she did great! We headed out for our new Easter tradition with my parents..greek food:) yumm yumm..
I worked saturday, and than Sunday morning we did our Easter egg hunt with addy..as seen below. She loved it!!! She has been asking "where Egg?" for the past week! best ten bucks I ever spent! after that we headed to church and than over to dave's sisters for turkey dinner..yummy:) We were pretty exhausted by the end of it all, with working weekends in a busy holiday mix it can get a little much sometimes. but we survived:)
I do find it kind of sad though that at this stage in life I am finding holidays to be more of a burden than a blessing?? Can anyone else relate?? Does that make sense? I guess I just feel like at the end of it all, I so desperatly want to have five minutes alone with MY little family:) Since its such a rare and special thing these days! Anyways, the purpose of Easter is something so much greater and that was not forgot this year, as it will never be forgot any year in our household!

My Spring Reading List

2011-04-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

I love amazon.ca! Its fabulous! I love buying books from there, and than waiting patiently for the mail to arrive and to open up my new books! I love books. I think the Ipad and kindle are fabulous inventions, but I will never reading books! So with tv coming to an end..meaning no more new shows for the season, not the actual concept of tv coming to an end*grin* I will have lots more time to read!! Here are three books on my spring reading list and more to come on my summer one!

I have just started reading Karen Kingsbury and quite enjoy her:) I have heard great things about this new book so I ordered it!

I read the back of this book in coles awhile back and thought it sounded fasinating, so I bought it! I will give you my review once i am done;)!

Ok, this one is a little different, and no I am not announcing anything:) This is the next book I am going to read on the Doula reading syllabus! Oh breastfeeding..such a love hate relationship we have with you! I took on online small class a few months back about breasfeeding and found some interesting facts that I didn't even know about before, so heres to learning awhole lot more and passing that wisdom on!!

The book that is currently on my night stand is called The last Dance by Karen Kingsbury as well, and so far so good!

Tuesday ramblings

2011-04-19T21:38:00.000-07:00

Its Tuesday. Tuesday is our tired day. I don't know why, something to do with the day after Monday, still recovering from the weekend that really isn't a weekend in our world, or because its just Tuesday and that's how we role. Its twenty to ten and my baby is just going to bed! Well, she was in bed and proceeded to talk to herself for an hour, so we brought her out of bed, to play in our bed, call random relatives, because that's what she likes to do, and it entertains her parents, and away we go:)! She is in bed now, hopefully sleeping..hoping she sleeps in but I won't hold my breath!

Easter is just around the corner, so I have lots of baking to do in the next couple of days! I am going to attempt to make Paska again, because it is delish! And I want to start more traditions around here. Things to look forward to, things for my kids to look back on with warm memories...

I will also be baking away because we are celebrating Dave's side of the family's birthdays this Sunday in combination with Easter. Its a busy one! The dessert plan, PW's Chocolate Sheet cake and a new recipe for her Vanilla cream cheese cupcakes!

But first there is good Friday..I love good Friday; maybe that is morbid but I do. I don't think I ever make it through a good Friday service without breaking down into tears. I think I am in awe of the sacrifice HE made for me..it overwhelms me, and touches the deepest part of my soul. I am full of gratitude, humility and thanksgiving for what he did for us that day.

Its funny to now that I am a parent, I get it a little more. I get what it means to be willing to do anything for your child..let alone a couple billion of them. I was watching oprah today because I can..and I love her, and the show is almost done..and it was about a 61 year old mother who was a surrogate for her daughter. Its funny, when she was asked if she thought what she did was extra special or something along that lines, she answered no. She just did what any parent would do for their child who they love..so true. And I get that a bit more now. I am still learning and have a long ways to go, but I get it a percent more now that I am a parent. Now that I know there is no greater earthly love, more powerful, more undescrible, more heart wrenching, or painfully rich than the love you feel for your child. So as Friday approaches I am more in awe than ever, and more recieving than ever of the love HE has for me. Because if I don't recieve it, than what was the purpose?? What was it all for??

So those are my ever changing Tuesday thoughts of the day. Tomorrow is wed, I hope to meet a new baby by Thursday, and than its Friday:)

I will be back tomorrow with my summer reading list because I think its going to be a good one!!

Dad turns 60

2011-04-17T20:10:00.001-07:00

What a busy weekend. It has come to a close..way to quickly as usual! But I wanted to get this post up quickly before the week takes off again..and because I am avoiding helping Dave clean up the kitchen at least for a few more minutes;) So my dad turned 60 on wed, so yesterday we threw him a suprise birthday party. He didn't want anything crazy, but we thought he deserved something special. And the thing that I learn more and more, at the end of the day, 30 years from now, I would rather have ten or so people show up at my birthday who know me like the back of their hand, than 100 strangers..just saying.. My mom and dad took off on a two day get away to Harrison and we got into party mode. It took a lot of planning, and co ordinating and working around my lovely work schedule, but we pulled it off. It was so worth it all to when dad walked in to see his family and friends there to celebrate with him. The sun came out in full force, and it was a beautiful evening. We put on a full greek spread, had yummy cake(thank you Shawna..it was fabulous!!!) and ice cream, and I feel everyone walked away with a full belly and a few more laugh lines from all the joy that was going on in the room..success! So try living with this man..see the size of his piece of cake, and than look at the size of him..where does it go?? non of us know! and yes it is annoying:) but I love him*grin*

sixty year olds don't need stuff..they have enough junk..so the gag gifts, and old age jokes were in full force:) Addy and Winnie helping dad open his presents!

YEs, she loves lemons..what a wierdo..but my wierdo:)*grin*

Cleaning up..I know, like I said what a wierdo..she loves to clean up, and I Love her for that!

The spread...and see the sun shining through..it was heaven!

Busted!!

Dad looking at the pics of his life up on the wall..so many memories..

Ok, I know what you are thinking, why is my kid wearing a touque in the spring time?? well it did snow the other day didn't you know??:) Actually, this toque means more to me than most people will ever know. When I was ten years old, my dad's best friend, and my god parents, lost their 17 year old son in a car accident. He was our big brother, he was family by love..and he was the first person I lost. That day is a day that is inscibed in my mind forever, and one that I will never forget. Yesterday, said adopted aunt and uncle brought me his toque and boots from when he was a kid...the water works were in full effect..I cant even begin to describe how touched I was and how cherished these pieces will be in my heart. and this girl loved them..however, I don't think Winnie appreciated her trying to put it on him..she tries..:) he is patient..they love eachother..

And yes she wears pig tails. And everytime she does I smile, because my girls in pig tails:)! and she is a big girl now..tear...

So happy sixth to the best dad around..we had a great time celebrating with you and realizing that old people are funny:)

Dinner Tonight!

2011-04-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

So I am sharing a very coveted recipe around here;) So here is the story. I LOVE Cactus Club, its probably my favorite chain restaurant! That is why I am thrilled to know that there is one opening fairly close to us in the near future! woot woot! Spiked frapps.. Im just saying.. Anyways, my favorite thing to eat at this coveted Cactus Club is the Terriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl! Many restaurants have tried to copy, but none come close to this one! So the thing that makes this dish so delish is the spicy yogurt that accompanies it. So one day I did some serious diggin on the lovely internet and have found what I think come pretty close to the real thing. So today i am sharing.. So you need one cup of plain yogurt, 1/4 of mayo, 2 tsp of ranch dip mix, and a 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper. we add a little more because we like the heat around here:) Mix together and let sit in the fridge for at least an hour. Even better I find over night:) mix up your favorite veggies with some chicken, stir fry them up, add some terriyaki sauce. I love the thick one by Golden Dragon I believe is the name, let it simmer with some garlic, maybe some ginger and some red pepper flakes if you dare. Now for the layering. Bowl of rice, drizzle on the yogurt, and than the stirfry on top..and savor every bite!! yummoo...Thats whats about to be in our bellies:)

Amber teething necklace

2011-04-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

My mom picked me up an Amber teething necklace the other day for miss addy. I had never heard of them, but she did through a coworker who's little guys teething and apparently thanks to this necklace you wouldn't ever know! The idea behind it has to do with the oils in the Amber absorbing into the skin and being a natural pain medication..or something like that;) So we think our girl is starting to work on some molars or the end of her eye teeth so we have been giving the necklace a try..and to be honest I actually think it works:) She doesn't seem to be as agitated or upset, chewing as much..and overall just more content:) So I thought I would pass it along, anything that isn't medication to me is worth checking out. And if anything its pretty cute!

sunshine:)

2011-04-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

The sun is out so that makes me happy! Our apartment looks like it is officially rented out so that makes me even happier!!! but I won't quite breathe until that rent check is in my hand:) Its been an exhausting process around here. its been a month and a half of showing after showing, disappointment after disappointment:( and last week we paid the two mortgage payments this month, and that hurt..a lot.. but today looks brighter in so many ways! My faith is continually challenged and just when I start to feel like i have hit the bottom of the bucket my spirit is renewed! I think that is why I have had a hard time blogging lately is I feel like there has been a wall up blocking my thoughts and emotions so I don't come undone..because I am a wife, a mom, a friend, a daughter, a sister, a tax payer, and employee, housekeeper...I don't have time to come undone:) So we keep truckin along..and soon one day I know that surviving will turn into thriving again around these parts!

I think one thing that has been helping me lately is I have been getting out lately. Seeing friends more, talking, laughing, loving..and being me..because I am pretty cool, and I have missed myself:)*grin* I am just saying..

and then there is this girl..

She's been talking a lot lately..I mean a lot..some somedays we dial papa, or uncle, or grandma and I hand her the phone and she goes to town:) Thats my girl..and I adore her..really adore her because she is just really cute right now..even though my brain hurts by the end of the day some days because she doesn't stop..all day:)...I just really like my kid, and that is such a great feeling:) She is becoming a little girl, and I am so loving this time with her..just me and my girl, hanging out, trying on shoes..painting mugs for papa's birthday..and so on:) She's up now, and daddy's home, so off to the park we go where the sun is before we have friends over for dinner tonight..see i am telling ya, the love fest just continues lately..and I love it:)!

Spring Madness

2011-03-24T12:17:00.000-07:00

Thats what I call March and April in our house;) Spring Madness! Its our birthday months. So far we have had five this month, I have an engagement party this sunday a baby shower next week, and than about 7 birthdays in April, including my dads 60th! And while we are at it lets throw Easter in there as well:)

But the sun is out so I couldn't be happier! And today is a spring cleaning day around here! time to open up the blinds and see the dust bunnies that have been collecting the past few months!

March has also been super busy for us with showings on our apartment. We were so blessed last year when we decided to move before my mat leave was over to find great tenants in two days! They are now moving on and for the past month we have done showing after showing, people no showing, people not calling back, people seeming like it was a done deal and than nothing..ugh...its exhausting! So I have been a tad stressed..ok a lot stressed as we are preparing to embrace an extra mortgage payment this month. With just days away, I have come to a more peaceful place. One thing that i have learned to do this month is pray differently. Life just keeps seeming to happen, and I find myself getting let down time and time again with expecations I set for myself and for us. Hopes, dreams, plans..which are not bad things, but if thats all i focus on I am know i am doomed to fail. So It clicked somehow this month..I just need to pray for peace. Because I can't control what is happening around me, only what is inside. and let me tell you, its helping. So I am learning to trust God in our circumstances and pray for the fruits of the spirit that he has given to me to get me through this harder times with Joy and peace!

So that is where we are at:)! So back to get stuff done while the little is being babysat by Veggie tales..her new found love;)*grin*

oh and I am off for a big walk this afternoon, in the sun!!! I can't believe I am finally saying that!

The writting is on the wall..

2011-03-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

Well it was bound to happen sooner than later:) With our little miss's new love of colouring, I so far have discovered it on the floor, which was fine and easy to wash off, her car(whatever its a toy!), but I was waiting for the wall to get it and it did! its faint and its hard to see but its there! It was on the stairways as well..so wierd, and I only discovered it because I was vacuuming the stairs! Otherwise, it might have gone unnoticed for a while:) And it obviously didn't happen on my watch because I never leave my toddler un attended to at home..I watch her every second of every day:)*grin*

From my kitcken to yours..

2011-03-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

I a made these last night, and I love them:) I got this recipe off of the Rachel Ray show months back and have been eating them ever since! and with spring time around the corner, and summer getting closer burgers will become more a staple in our house!

So lets call them Franks hot sauce chicken burgers;)

So sautee up some carrots, celery and onion in some olive oil and butter. Make sure they are really small pieces.

Once they are nice and soft, but not carmelized, transfer them to a bowl with the ground chicken. Add your seasoning of choice. I threw in some montreal spice, and some salt and pepper. Mix it up and make into nice size patties. Fry them up in a frying pan for a few minutes on each side. once they are brown on both sides remove them from the pan and add some more butter about a tbsp, and some franks hot sauce to the pan. Let it simmer for a minute and than add the burgers back to the pan, flipping them once until they are fully cooked through! If you love franks you will love these! If you don't love franks I think you could totally due this with a bbq sauce or whatever other sauce you love on your chicken burgers..terriyaki maybe??

add whatever you want on your bun and you are good to go!

One trick that i have been doing lately to one, tighten the budget, two eat less meat and three make more food..is to add a lot more veggies to things. So I used a lot of veggies in this mix and ended up getting a good 7 burgers out of it. Also with stirfrying, we have been trying to eat more organic meat and its expensive! so usually, for a stirfry I would get a pound of steak..or about two small striplion steaks, and it would cost about $7ish bucks. Where as now It still costs about $7, but I get probably, 2/3 the amount of meat. so I replace that other 1/3 with tons more veggies. Still filling for my hard working man, healthier and as cheap as possible with the new eating route we are trying to pursue!

Anyways, I have a few more recipes that I will be back to share, as I try and do one new one a week, and I have discovered a few goodies recently!

Happy monday..I am off to work!

Bully at the playground

2011-02-16T12:26:00.000-08:00

So i have a situation that I would love your opinions on:)

So today I took Addy to go meet her little friends at McDonalds. They have a lovely little play room that traps the kids inside and they can run free. Now, I realized once we got there that my little is a bit young for this type of thing but we were making it work. Anyways, obviously there were other kids there of all ages. So there was this one little girl..I am going to say she was 4ish?? With her grandparents I am guessing?? Anyways..get to the point...well the point is that she shoved Addy over while I was standing right there. I was a little shocked, and it caught me off guard. Addy didn't seem to be too fazed by this so she kept going and I just politely and calmly said to the little girl, please don't push sweetie..meanwhile in my head I had a few other choice words. Well, later on Addy went climbing up the stairs, and I followed, as again she is still a little bit to little and I don't trust her on those things. The "shover" was at the top of the stair as the little kids were coming up. I said to her be careful sweetie the little kids are coming up..still calm and polite at this point..and all of a sudden she shoves Addy in the face. Now if I hadn't been there, my child would have proceeded to go flying down the stairs backwards. Tears came this time, and I took her away immediately...poor little thing had even a scratch on her face from this kid. So heres the thing..I was annoyed..I know it was a kid but I was annoyed. I know she was with her grandparents..but I was annoyed. So my question is, what would you have done?? A part of me wanted to tell her grandparents, part of me wanted to say something to the kid, but she isn't my kid...but instead I just walked away..because I am new to this whole thing:) Now, I am all for kids, of the same age working stuff out, fighting over toys, learning how to share, or not share because they just aren't there yet...but physical stuff, that just doesn't sit right with me. Anyways, anyone else have something like this happen? What did you do, or what would you do? And yes I know my kid is going to have run ins in life, and I an't always protect her...but you know, when you are standing right there, and thats your BABY...it sucks!

I love this girl

2011-02-01T21:17:00.000-08:00

Todays post is all about this little girl:) I love her. I can even say this after I wanted to rip out my hair today because she is cutting eye teeth and the whining never stops! Anyways, through it all, I still adore her, and she still melts my heart, makes me laugh and more and more I am in complete awe of this little creature.

These are some pictures from last month when we had our one and only big snow dump. It lasted a day, it was fun, daddy stayed home from work and than it was gone. But let me tell ya, we loved the snow. I have never seen this child sit so still for so long so content and fasinated with her surroundings. It was lovely. So what am I trying to say; well this kid is a little bit of a busy one:) She doesn't really stop moving unless she is sleeping and even than I am sure she flips and wiggles constantly all night.

She is such a ham! seriously, this kid cracks us up. She is so dramatic(I wonder where she got that from??:)), a comic, and a constant ever changing world of wonder.

She talks non stop and comes up with new words every day. Her favorites have always been and if you spent a day in our house you would hear a million times over, "whats that?", "where is he?", "oh daddy", "mama, mommy!", "there you are!", "oh baby," and my favorite right now is her singing of "baby babapa"..which of course is baby baluga:) Oh, and there is a little dance to go with it!

Than there are those moments when she makes me eyes fill with tears. The other day we were singing, and playing games, and I started to sing Jesus loves me, and immediatly she ran over to her books and picked up her little book, called Jesus loves me...really, really? So smart..what can I say! you ask her where jesus is and she will point to her heart:)

She is also our child in the sense that she finds bodily functions humorous..burping, farting, well thats just cheap laughs for that girl:) I love when she does something, finds it funny and than asks you what it is..like blowing raspberries. Like hey mom, look what I can do, but what the heck is it!

And the hugs, everyone, and everything gets hugs, even her computer...I love this girl...

word for 2011

2011-01-26T22:12:00.000-08:00

So it hit me like a lighting bult..straight into my heart, my word for this year. I have been thinking about it these last few weeks off and on, reading fellow bloggers words, thinking if I could even come up with one, and I did. Last years word for me was create, and I did feel that I attempted to fullfill it. I tried different crafts, classes and such. But mostly i think I succeeded in creating a home where my family wants to be, and that i am most proud of. So many many many things have been flooding my mind lately, and they need to start coming out..because thats how it works with me. Kind of like vomit..I know not the nicest visual but its just how it is with me. Quick and violent:) Oh but I feel so much better when I talk stuff out! Ok, anyways, lets move away from my nasty analogy and on to my new word. So one of the things that has been flooding my heart and mind lately is what is this year going to look like. This past month with its winter rainy gloom is starting to take its toll on me. I start to feel hopeless and worn out, and not sure how I am going to move forward into the newness this year has for me, and how to get excited about it. I get overwhelmed looking around my home and how I want to take it to that next level..all these things i think I need for it. How I want to take trips, and create fun family experiences, and do more than just pay my bills. But than I am reminded of the reality of our situation, and it tugs me back. To that place, of uncertainty and restlessness. I need to start learnign how to work with what I got, and making it rock! The other thing that I have been thinking a lot about lately, or feeling more like, is how worn out I am. One thing I have struggled with since I got married was having this whole new world of people, and a totally new focus, but an old world that demands and wants my time and attention. I didn't know how to balance it. Now being back to work, I haven't really had a choice, because quite frankly there is just no time to be spread thin:) But at the same time I don't want to loose what i have spent so many years investing in. But the reality is that marriage does change things, friendships being the biggest one. Its just different, not better or worse, just different. Ok, so on to my word. Well, with not having as much time to spread thin, I want to go deeper. I want to focus on a few, and go deep and rich and have that circle of love that you know in a heartbeat those people will be there for you. So my word..finallly..it hit me straight in my face tonight..."relationships". That is my focus for this year, my realationship with God, my hubby, my girl, my family, and my friends. I want to go deeper and build memories without wasting my time focusing on the things that I don't have in this world, but instead the amazing people that I do.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-11T18:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas has come and gone, so its about time a post about it! With working up until christmas eve, and back on the 27th it felt quite short. But Sweet:)
Christmas eve at work was insane, which is no suprise, so I was tired by days end. I had to pull myself together for christmas eve night which included church, and than back to our place for appy's and chatting with my parents:) Dave's parents stopped by for a bit too after spending sometime with his sister and family. Christmas eve was nice and quiet, acccept for addy who was so excited about her new princess table from nana and papa!
Christmas Day we had a lovely morning just the three of us and enjoyed watching addy open her presents. I was so excited for addy this christmas and thought she would be so much fun with her gifts, but I realized she still is a little to young and was overwhelmed by the third or fourth present! She was still fun though, and we still so enjoyed every minute with her!
Around 11ish we headed over to my parents for waffles..yummm..and waited for my brother and SIL to arrive;) We spent hours opening gifts, because it is quite the process in our house and we love to savor it! Plus with a toddler everything takes more time! We had a great day hanging out, eating food, and playing games. It was a nice, quiet and relaxing day. Just what we needed!
Boxing day was with Dave's side; which has four kidlets, so a lot more energy!
All in all a good christmas. I think the general sensus from people I talked to was they just weren't really into it this year, and I think the effects of the recession have really taken its toll on people this year. So here's to a more optomistic and joyful 2011!!!

Addy with tickle me elmo who she really isn't to sure of yet!

Goofy girl!

So cute in pink!

Her christmas hat from nana to match her christmas dress!

blogging slump

2011-01-06T11:45:00.000-08:00

Its true I am in a blogging slump. I still haven't written about christmas or anything since than, but am so not motivated to do so. I am tired; I think its the weather:) Oh rain I despise you!
So I need to get motivated, back on track, cause there is a lot in my head that needs to come out, and I need to be accountable to myself somewhere to get me motivated and living some life, not just floating through this month of January! oh January..I don't really like you:)

ok, I am over myself now..and will be back with life updates and more...I promise myself...

This is what my child thinks of santa:)

2010-12-23T17:45:00.000-08:00

Moments like these:)

2010-12-19T19:12:00.000-08:00

Dave and i were leading worship this morning, so addy decided she needed to help too:) It was so cute!

Christmas tradition-cutting down the christmas tree!

2010-12-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite traditions:) Every year we go with Dave's side of the family and cut down his parents christmas tree, have lunch and than come back at night to decorate and eat lots of treats;)! So yesterday was the day! We had a great day, and now are recovering...so much partying! so much fun! I love this season!

Our sad attempt at a family photo!

Addy helping daddy cut down the tree!

here it is!

My beautiful girl:)!

18 months

2010-12-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

18 months is just 5 days away...18 months...almost two..not a baby anymore...18 months..

I am loving this age. OK, I say that about every age because its true;) We are starting to enter the world of temper tantrums now, not going to lie, but besides that, she is so much fun. Such a joy, so full of life, love and personality. I had one of those moments the other day where a tear flowed down my cheek as I watched this little person evolve. She was holding her little lamb stuffed animal, and I asked her if lamby was tired and if she would rock her to sleep. she proceded to rock lamby back and forth while patting her bum than looked down at lamby gave her a kiss and proceded to rock her again...melt this mommy's heart! I love that she has learned that from me, and I have showed her that; hey I am doing something right!:) and a big part of it is also just how God created us. He designed us to love and nurture and comfort, and she is already doing such a great job at that:)

She is also full of words, and amazes me daily at her smarts. recognizing family members in pictures coming out with new words every day, making up things to do to entertain herself, laughing at herself, and us! busy, busy, and more busy! I love this girl, and am so grateful this christmas more than ever to have had God entrust me with her...18 months, lets see where the next six take us!

Traditions

2010-12-02T19:40:00.000-08:00

I grew up in a pastors home, which means a couple of things. Well, many things actually, but moving around is one thing that comes with the territory. Well for us it did anyways. My childhood was really stable, wonderful actually, and even though we moved houses, our church, and school stayed the same. It was wonderful. We had some wonderful traditions, that I loved! And have so many cherished memories in my heart. But in 1995 we moved. and that move changed me life. Unfortunately not so much for the better. My highschool years were tough. I have some very fond memories of that time, but also a lot of pain. After highschool I was searching, high and low, for a place that felt like home again. I moved back close to the area i grew up in to try and rekindle my childhood memories, but life was different now, and it took me a while to realize that you can't go back; you can only move forward. I spent a few years living back in "my" city..yes Vancouver is my City, and I loved it! that is a time I will cherish forever, and will be so grateful that I did it! it was my time, time to find my wings, find myself, and have some fun:) In 2006 I realized that my wings were tired and it was time to find roots, and so I did. I did in a place that i never thought I would, but isn't it usually the things we don't plan and let HIM plan go so much better than our plans?? I am just saying....:)
My dream now is to stay rooted. If God calls us somewhere else, than I will obedientely go, but at the same time I secretly pray that this can always be home. Not because I love the smell of fertilizer; no...because I want this for my chilren. The thing that I have been searching for and feel that I missed out on I want to give to them. Roots, a home, and lots and lots of fabulous traditions! We are still working out the kinks in the tradition area, and they will take time to grow and develop but I know they will come, and I am so looking forward to that!!
I am not sure what this holiday season will look like yet, but I will share after its all said in done the things we did, and loved, and wont do again:) This weekend I am looking forward to a baking day with friends...maybe this will become a tradition?? I am doing a cookie exchange with some of my friends out here and this will be year 2 of that...one that I think I quite like!!

So what are some of your favorite holiday traditions??? What do you dream about this time of year for your kids???

chicken, mushroom soup thing..

2010-12-01T13:09:00.000-08:00

Hows that for a recipe title?? I don't know what to call it, its just something i like to throw together in a pan, but it is comfort food all the way!

So here's what you need:

3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
a can of mushroom soup
pepper
frenches fried onions
half a pack of brown gravy mix
egg noodles

So basically brown up the chicken in a pan with some olive oil. Season it with a little pepper and with whatever else you fancy. Add the mushroom soup and a can of water mix it up and let it simmer till the chicken is cooked all the way through. Cook up the egg noodles. While the egg noodles are cooking, turn the heat down on the chicken to a low simmer, and throw on top some frenches fried onions. Let it heat up so some of the soften a bit. Serve the chicken and sauce over the egg noodles, with some broccolli on the side..easy and delish! Small chow mein noodles are good over the chicken as well if you want a bit of crunch in your bite..enjoy!

December first...tomorrow...really??

2010-11-30T21:26:00.000-08:00

Well its almost here...the big C that is, meaning Christmas, not the tv show;) Which I am curious to watch by the way...ok, anyways, back onto my topic:) Tomorrow is December first and I think I am still a bit in shock over that. As usual time is flying! Things are starting to feel a little settled around here..in some aspects. I am still in the new stages of my new promotion at work, but feeling more settled in it now because now that I have moved up a step my schedule is more routine, and not so much all over the place. I have gone to three maybe four days a week, and full days instead of this five days a week, 4-7 hour long shifts. And no sundays!!
It was way too much..it was killing me emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I definetly wasn't finding a good balance in my life, and I don't function well when my life is out of balance! Anyone else out there that can relate? so yes this 24 hours a week or so is managable, still not ideal, as ideal would be full time at home with my girl; but managable. I know financially i should work more, but its just so not worth it!! and that is a great feeling to know. So basically my priorities are figured out in my heart, and I know God is going to bless my family for that. And even this week things seem more encouraging.
The one poopy part of this last while has been the illness in this house. Due to shift work, going back to work, and life stress I have had a cold for the past three months it feels like. Off and on it keeps coming back and I just can't seem to feel better. And this week my poor little girl got it:( Its been rough, with the multiple wake ups in the middle of the night, and the sick little girl who is not too happy right now..but I believe the antibiotics are starting to kick in and I am hopeful for a better day tomorrow for both of us!
I have also been getting back into my devotions and that has been helping me a lot..what a concept right??!
Another big step for me this week was to start doing something for myself. With having to work a job I don't love, and that is just a job, my heart has been aching. Aching for meaning, purpose, and a plan. So I have finally put into action something that has been on my heart for really, 15 years, but more directly in the past three. I always thought I wanted to be a nurse, a neo natal one to be exact..I love babies!! its true:) But every time i would start out my schooling down that path it just wouldn't work out. I have tried three times now; no joke! well, while I was pregnant with Addyson it started to dawn on me what I wanted to do. I wanted/needed to be in some sort of health care, helper role but I just hadn't figured out what that looks like yet. My dream, if I had the money, and a school closer to me would be to become a midwife. I wouldn't do it with little ones, but once they are all grown up I would be all over it. So than I started researching the Doula program, and realized, hey, this is something tangible that I can do. It got pushed to the back burner, but has started to creep up again this last while. So I decided last week to just go for it. I ordered my first set of books and I am on my way to reading this fantastic material. I have decided for now I want to pursue the post partum Doula program as I don't think it would be smart for me to try and balance, 3am deliveries with my own little ones, but the post partum one is feesable. The other thing I have decided is that i am doing this for myself. Meaning, if Never make a dime off of it I don't care I am doing this for me, and that feels good! I think the post partum thing spoke to me as I know what it is like to adjust in those first couple of weeks under unexcted circumstance, due to a c-section in my circumstances, but I have dear friends who have walked much darker paths than me, and I just want to help, be a light, use it as a ministry, whatever God wants from it, its his...so that is exciting to me, and it feels good to get excited! anyways, just needed to write down my life update for myself, and will be back for some christmas things to look forward to, and some recipes! be blessed my blogger friends!

what I am thankful for.

2010-11-25T11:41:00.000-08:00

Even though its not Canadian thanksgiving today, even though part of me wishes it was..I felt the need to write a gratitude list. I like the word gratitude/grateful, to me it just has that much more depth and meaning than thankful..so I use it...With the stressors of life weighing heavily on my heart some days i felt the need to focus on the good, because there is a lot of that, but I have this horrible character trait that allows worry and fear to comsume my need for faith and trust in my FATHER...its a daily battle a daily laying at the cross..but love conquers all, and he is love...

so here is my list for today...cause I am trying to take things one day at a time;)

-My girl, I looked over at her face today as she watched her praise baby, captivated by the music; she captivates my heart..I am eternally grateful for her in my life.
-My hubby. He's such a good man who loves his girls dearly and we love him for that;)
-Furnaces:) baby its cold outside! so I am so grateful to have a day off today to be tucked inside my warm cozy home its lovely!
-Snow falls, and not having to go outside and drive in said snowfall.
-hot beve's:) warm water with honey(I know I am a granny but with this cold that just wont go away it feels so good), hot coffee...so good...
-comfort food! cause that is what we are having for dinner!
-leggings! I finally got a pair, and I am in love!!
-time for devotions. I have been plugging back in and it feels so good to be doing so. I know my obedience will pay off in so many ways. because the word is so nourishing for the soul.
-muffins..I just made a batch and they are delish!
-Grace...I am so grateful for the grace that is constantly shown in my life...

halloween 2010

2010-11-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

This year Addyson was our little dalmation; and in my opinion the cutest one around! She loved being in her little costume and as you can see checking herself out in the mirror! Addy's cousin came over to join us, and her parents too, as we toured our neighborhood on this new adventure of trick or treating. Addy did great and seemed to quite like this idea of going door to door to get things! After a few houses in our area we headed to my parents, than Dave's parents and back home for some late night nacho's with the cousins! it was a fun night! still feels surreal at times that we are doing this, but still fun:)

life update

2010-10-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful month October has been but it is official, the rain is here! But that is ok with me. As long as it doesn't go on forever! It does give us a good excuse to curl up inside and not feel guilty about not being out in the sun!

These last three months have definetely been crazy for our little family. Lots of adjusting, busyness, pass offs at the door as one comes home from work and the other one heads off, weekends of single parenting, long days, and lots more. But there has been lots of wonderful moments inbetween and we have cherished those. We had a great day at the aquirium back in September for my parents anniversary, a night at Harrison to celebrate my moms birthday, my birthday, our 3rd anniversary, thanksgiving, and last weekend we went to the pumpkin patch. So we have definetely been working on not letting life get ahold of us but us enjoying life when we can! The last big thing we did was this weekend when Dave and I headed downtown for our first night away from Addy. And it was great! We missed our girl but it was easier than I thought and I think that is because we went at a good age and the right time. I only teared up once when I talked to her on sunday morning. We had such a great time though together, eating, lounging, sleeping in, shopping, and just being togther. It felt like us for a moment in time. It was a really good reminder of something I have always really believed in, and that is our marriage; or marriage in general. Meaning, that as important as children and being a parent are, your marriage needs to be on that priority list! And it is so easy to push it to the bottom of the pile under the unfolded laundry. But when you pull it back to the top and take hold of it again, amazing things happen! So, that is what this weekend was, reclaming our marriage, and our bond and love for eachother. And yes, a start of more things to come, as I know more dates are needed in our world!!!
One thing that I know is going to help is that I got promoted to shift supervisor last week and i start training next week:) This is really good news for our family! For a couple of different reasons. First more money, not tons, but right now every bit helps. Second, better hours. Right now I have been workign about 30 hours a week, but 5 days a week, which basically feels like full time anyways. And its not go to work from 9-5 deal with baby for a few hours and than have the nights and weekends off. Its been, toddler all day, go to work at night...ect. So its been a lot! I am not going to lie. Dave has also been working side jobs, so again, we have been like ships passing in the night. But As hard as its been, God continues to be faithful and i choose to continue to stand on his promise that he hasn't left us or forsaken us, and the fruit of that in our life is so apparent. So I am rejoicing today in Gods promises! Because they are so good!

The pumpkin Patch

2010-10-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

This last saturday we headed to the pumpkin patch. I was so excited to do this as I had been waiting since last year to go with Addy! I am so glad we went and I think thatAddyson would agree! We went to one called Willow Farms in Abby; free admission, kids toys, petting zoo, pumpkin patch galore, concession stand with country store, it was perfect! We had such a great day as a family and with our friends we went with! Can't wait for next year and making this one of our family traditions!

3 years later

2010-10-08T20:55:00.000-07:00

On wed dave and i celebrated three years of marriage. I have to tell you, of all anniversary's this is the first one I woke up and felt excited. I think that it is because I needed to feel excited. I spent our first anniversary sick(morning sickness that is), and our second one we were just both excited and nervous to leave addy for the first time for more than an hour so we could go to dinner and a movie, and by the end of it my boobs felt like they were about to burst.
So there was something fresh and hopeful about this one. A new start i guess? Maybe the feeling that in someway this year feels like it can only get better than last? whatever the reason, it felt good. And I was also so grateful for the day off of work to spend it with my girl. The absolute best things to come out of our first three years together..she has been worth it all.

So after a great day with her and visiting the newest member in our village out here Dave and I got to go out for an amazing Thai dinner and had such a great time just talking..because after three years it feels so natural, so right yet still new and exciting at times.

Marriage is hard..that is for sure, but when you pick the right person, when you listen to Gods directing, when you trust him every step of the way, it can be oh so good.

The funny thing, the irony about it all, is what I have learned is that being married isn't the hard part, its dealing with everyone else;)*grin*

Anyways, Dave, I would choose you all over again, in a heartbeat. But I would go back and tell myself three years ago this:
to let all expectations and set steps go, and just love, just go with the flow, have goals and dreams, but don't let them consume you girl, take each day one day at a time, and focus on the good of that day..and just love...love him...love yourself and keep serving the one that brought you together...because he is the one who is going to bless the next three..thirty...and then some even more than you can imagine. So let go to the father, the one who has the master plan, and just love girl, just love..

My future Picasso

2010-09-22T19:06:00.000-07:00

I came home from work the other day to discover this waiting on my counter;) Addyson had spent the day with her Nana(my mom) while I was working and it turns out they unleashed their creative juices. I almost cried when I saw this, because I thought it was the most beautiful thing ever(and yes I understand to someone who is not her mother what it looks like), but, it warmed my heart and made me sad all at the same time! Such a great suprise but I told my mom I was a little sad that I wasn't there to see it:) but that is ok, I know that there is much more painting and drawing and art work to be done in the household, and it makes my heart so happy to know that while I go off to work, my girl is in loving hands;) And doing exactly what I would want to do with her! So yes, I am sure there will be much more artwork on this blog of mine; as I am a proud mama!

Hats, headbands and head banging

2010-09-16T17:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a few random pictures of recent. Right now, and hopefully for a long time to come, one of addyson's favorite things to do is hug her daddy. Ok, well she just loves to hug in general, but especially after her bath, while looking in the mirror she wraps her little arms around her daddy's neck and squeezes..I love it!

Oh how she loves her stuffed animals. this is Louie..as in Vutton..thats right. For now she has a big stuffed dog, but maybe one day she will be lucky enough to get the bag:)*grin*

I love this headband! it was my latest Etsy treat..isn't it fabulous??:)

So last fall i took a picture of Addy in this hat that I won at a woman's conference I went to. I love it! And I absolutly to this day love the photo of her in it. Well, it was a lot easier at four months old to get a good shot; so this is the best I could get with a 14 month old! Not quite the same but pretty darn cute just the same!:)

A day at the beach

2010-09-10T12:03:00.000-07:00

For my moms birthday this year, all she asked for was a day in the city with her girls(addy and myself). Well, as much as we would have LOVED to get into the city, anybody tried recently?? What a gong show! so we did some detouring, did some shopping, had a lovely lunch and headed to white rock. What a perfect day for it!! it was sunny and warm, and this little girl was in love!!! She ran, jeans, shoes and everything right into the warm tiddle pools and thought it was the greatest thing ever! she had lots of admiring fans watching this crazy kid take off without a care in the world or where her mother was, she was on a mission! And oh how I loved watching her run free on the beach; it was heaven for me. And one of those magical moments in the week that make all the other not so nice ones disappear;)!

I am busy...really I am

2010-09-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

We might be super busy right now but still have time to do this kind of stuff!

Ten years ago yesterday

2010-09-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago yesterday, September 6 2000 my whole life changed. I packed my bags, and came home. Well, technically I left home, but I moved back to the lower mainland which to me was my home. The interior was a temporary stop over for our family, with some good memories, but also a lot of pain. Any other girl out there NOT love her high school years??:) Anyways, it was quite emotional reminiscing of where I was and how far I have come. I look at the 18 year olds i work with and think, wow, I used to be like that, think like that, act like that, wow..has things ever changed. I was no naive, so week, so young, so impressionable, so innocent, but so hopeful for things to come. I don't know if I ever thought I would be here ten years ago, but here I am, and I wouldn't change it for the world. I am blessed. There are hard days, and hard circumstance that we are working through in this season of our life, but I know I am blessed and grateful for the amazing people I call my little family. Sometimes I think there is so much I want to do in life, and I have so much to accomplish still. And this is all true, but looking back I also can't believe how much I have done in the past ten years. So here is my list in review, and I am proud of this list, proud of my accomplishments, my successes and failures, because they have all molded me to be the person I am today, and I am proud of this girl, I think she is alright;)

So,
-I have had 8 different jobs
-Attended 3 different schools, one which I completed my Marketing diploma at. One of the best times in my life those two years were!! I would never take those years back.
-I have moved 9 times! yikes!
-Had three different room ates
-Lived on my own
-Lived in the city(LOVED this time!!)
-Owned two places
-Traveled to California a few times, New York, Mexico, Hawaii, Las Vegas, Cuba, Oregon, and Washinton Multiple times!
-Got married
-Had a baby
-Gone back to work after mat leave
-Lived, loved, partied, studied, drank lots of Starbucks, laughed, watched many movies, drank lots of red wine, taken many walks along the beaches and rivers, sat on patios, ate at amazing restaurants, watched gorgeous sunsets, hung out with friends, taken many road trips with friends, planned my wedding, lounged on catamarans, read amazing books, shopped, shopped and shopped some more, grew a big belly, breast fed my baby, snuggled her and loved her more than I thought possible, kissed my husband, loved my husband, laughed with my husband, and loved Jesus the whole way through...wow, life is good...you forget the pains of the day, you don't forget the people you lost, but slowly over time its a warm memory in your heart that's etched on the walls of your soul. The sadness doesn't linger the pain dissipates, and all you hold dear is the love, the memories and the pride you have of saying, I did all this..me..wow, and whats even more exciting is I am just getting started so watch out world, here I come!!

mother may I...

2010-09-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am in love!! that is all i have to say...

http://www.hollyyashi.com/other/new-arrivals/elizabeth-earrings-BC10060.html?FEA_SKU=10950&related=xsell

while browsing through Etsy..

2010-09-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

Seriously??? People buy this stuff??? seriously??? Ok if you are really bored or just want to do something meaningless with your life for five minutes go see what the most ridiculous thing you can find on etsy is!!

facebook time out

2010-09-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

So I deactivated my facebook account. Yes its true. The plan is to make this a temporary move, but we will see. I don't have a definite timeline, a month maybe, maybe longer. I know there are things about facebook I couldn't give up long term, like its a great way to keep in touch and see updates on friends and family that live far away, and it makes me feel like I am still apart of their lives. But i just felt it was time. I would check facebook a couple of times a day I usually wouldn't stay long, but I definetly was on there. I love looking at pictures, and status updates are always fun to see what people were up to..so..why am I having a time out?? well...we are in a season of our life that I don't really love. I am not going to lie, this has been a really tough year, and just when I don't think it can get harder it does. but I am praying that we are going to come through this storm now, not sink deeper into it. I know God has been with us, and that he has us going through this desert for a reason, but some days it just really sucks. And i am not saying this for sympathy or a pitty party, that is the last thing I want. But if I hear one more time, oh this could be worse, or look on the bright side, I think i might slap someone. Because until you have walked in our shoes, you have no place for opinions or judgements...ok I am done my rant..that feels better. So yeh, I just felt that looking at everyones life and comparing wasn't helping my mental state, so I shut it down. Ok, so its only been three days, but i got to tell ya, I feel better. I feel happier and more positive that things are going to be ok, and that I have the mental space and more energy to focus on my family and work right now, because that is all the energy i have right now..and that is ok. Anyways, thats that..I guess its kind of a fast in some ways, and its good, I feel like its another step in obedience. And I hope after we get out of this season in our lives I can come back and share lots of lovely insight and wisdom that can encourage others because that will make all of this worth it!!

So my challenge for you today, is there anything in your life that is dragging you down, not lifting you up, and is it maybe time to deactive this thing???

Addyson update..14.5 months old!

2010-08-29T20:33:00.001-07:00

Its been a while since I updated about my girl, so I figured it was time! I can't believe she is almost 15 months. I thought the first year went fast, but I already feel like this year is going faster. It has been a busy summer for us but not necessarily in the way I expected, or hoped. But this is life. The one constant good in my life through all the change and tough times we are going through right now in this stage of life is my girl. She keeps me going, everything I do I do it for her, and it is SO worth it. Some days are fabulous and feel easy peasy, but on the hard days..those days where it feels like life is swallowing you up, she keeps me swimming to the surface! Oh how I love this girl...

So on to the updates..well folks there is never a quiet or dull moment in our house! We have a busy one!! Busy but so good. I do find being out and about a challenge only because most of the time I am chasing after her, and I am still not quite use to it:) But she is so good; self entertains so well, smiles, laughes, amusses herself as well as her mommy and daddy and everyone else around! She doesn't walk, she runs. She talks non stop. She laughes, and mimics, and closes doors, and open cupboards and presses the stereobuttons multiple times a day! Again, never a dull moment. But than there are things that make her..her. her uniqueness, one of a kindness, the things we love! She loves to mimic, this is her latest thing. The funniest one she came up with this month was mimicing yawning. For some reason one day she saw her daddy yawning and just started to chuckle. So now, all you have to do is say, addy are you so tired and her arms go up in the air and she makes this little grunt sound..its so cute! She loves going up and down the stairs. And at bed time, all you have to do is ask her if its time for bed, and she marches right up to the gate and wants to go up..so precious;) A few weeks ago, she had a little blanky in her hand from her doll and she took it to the floor like she was wiping something up. So now if you give her a cloth and ask her to wash the floor, she will do it!..thats right, starting them young!haha
Her favorite show is in the night garden as she has a little igglepiggle doll..strangest show, but she loves it! her favorite video is still her praise baby or baby einstein. She loves puppets!!
And dogs, she loves dogs!! and yes, everytime she sees one she barks at them..arf. arf..arf..arf, it so cute;) but she still can't seem to understand yet that cats don't bark; so for now, according to her they do! She has quite a list of vocabulary. She is well known already for her "whats that?? oh, what is it??...non stop multiple times a day! so cute!! She says bupa(papa), ba(ball), baba(bottle), bubo(bubble), dada, mama, hi. She signs, please, thank you, more and finished. She knows where her nose and head are, but is still convinced her belly is her bum!

Oh, there is just so much, she is so full of personality, funny faces and expressions, laughs, wierd monster sounds where we are not sure where she gets them from, and so much more!! Just love her, just love her....

Here are a few pics; I really have not taken many recently with the busyness of life, and well, my camera isn't the greatest with moving targets!!

So this is how most of the pictures turn out...give me that camera mama!!

As much as she loves her videos, she loves the cases!

Styling in her rain boots!!

ten things I love about fall!

2010-08-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

So I still will be back with an update on my girl, but she is a little tricky to take pictures of right now..so for now I will share this. I am ready for fall, so ready. which is wierd because usually I can't stand the thought of summer ending. But this summer was a little different for us, with a one year old, an extremely tight budget, and me going back to work, it just didn't feel the same. I would say my highlight of the whole summer was the Lion King...fantastic, that is all I have to say!! Anyways, so I am ready to embrace fall, and here are a few things I am looking forward to!

1. Hot drinks. I have been drinking cold drinks galor, but I am ready for them!! Gingerbread lattes, bailey's with coffee, Earl Grey Tea lattes..yumm yumm!

2. Another drink that I am so ready to embrace again is my other lover; Red wine!! oh how I have missed you this summer;)!

3. Comfort food..I am talking lasagna, casserols, mashed potato's and gravy...ohhhh, bring on the carbs!!!

4. And to cover the bloated belly I will be sporting from all those carbs; its hoodie time! i love Hoodies, in the summer, in the fall, year around, I love hoodies!! and cardigans, I love cardigans!! and for an early birthday present, my mom took my shopping at Joe for some fall clothes, including some fabulous sweaters!!

5. the leaves, I love leaves, and I can't wait to see my daughter playing in them!

6. Cold crisp clean air!! ahhh, i have missed you!

7. My birthday/anniversary/thanksgiving week-weekend!!!woohoo!!

8. The pumpkin patch with addy, it will be her first time, and choosing which halloween costume she will wear this year; so much fun!!!

9. fireplaces!! I cant wait to use our fireplace. since we moved into our new place in march, we only got to use it a few times; I can't wait to use it more!!

10. oh and the last one..well, I can't wait to see my girl in her new fall wardrobe its going to be adorable!! have I mentioned I love having a girl????

Sooooo...whats on your list...post it to your blog and share with all if you want!! i can't wait to hear!

Its been weeks!

2010-08-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Its been weeks since i have posted, and it seems like yesterday! crazy!! I can't believe its been almost three weeks that I have been back to work; time is flying!! So work, first of all, overall its good. I enjoy the environment, the day's tend to go by fairly quickly, the perks are fantastic, and it makes time fly!! The shift work is giving me lots of time with my girl, and that is the most important part! I am learning lots, doing well as I am told, which feels so great!! Its great to have adult conversation and be social. Its funny being one of the oldest people there though, and having older gentlemen asking me how they let someone as young as me get married??hahaha!! its the ponytail I have to wear;) The negatives..there are some, I am not going to lie..I am tired, oh so tired. I now feel like I have two full time jobs. This week is better, and overall I do better in life when I am busy, but sometimes I don't feel like i have time to breathe or any for myself, and than I get a little edgy:) I haven't worked this hard, in well..never!! And I get my first paycheck this friday and I am pretty sure I am going to cry:( See, the job market is a little tight out there, and for the convience of being with my child I have taken a MASSIVe pay cut..so that is going to sting..but I am continuely grateful and trying to focus on the benefits; but once in awhile, I like to feel sorry for myself for a bit, just a bit:) So that is work, work is life, but its a stage of life, that I keep reminding myself as well! And its character building, oh is it ever character building!!

So besides that, not much else to report on in life. We have a birthday party this weekend, than a fun shopping day in the city with my mom in a few weeks for her birthday, than hopefully another fun family day at the end of the month to celebrate my parents 35 anniversary! and than soon it will be October, and well, I love October....our third anniversary, my birthday, halloween which now equals adorable costumes for my girl. and sweaters, fireplaces, wine..lots of red wine...I am ready to embrace fall!!! ooohhh, I think I might have to come back with my top ten things Iam looking forward to for fall..stay tuned!

Oh, and I will be back with an update of my girl, its been a while, and she has changed..oh she has changed...my baby no more, my toddler, oh how I love my toddler:)! But I need pics, and Ihavent taken those in a while, so I will be back!!

Hope you all are having a great week, enjoy whats left of the sun!!xoxo, me:)

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, its back to work I go:)

2010-08-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

Yes tomorrow is the big day, I am heading back to work! I can't believe the time is come; it all feels so surreal. So yes I did manage to find a job after what seemed like an eternity. Turns out we still aren't out of this recession:) Its not what I was hoping for, its not what I expected or had planned in my head, but I am trusting God for great things to come out of this. One being, and this is the best part out of all of it..I get to raise my child!! I will be working some lovely shift work, but it means only working a few days which hopefully my mom can watch her, and than the rest evening shifts. Its going to mean some very long days for me, lots of hard work, and a big change in lifestyle, but I know in time we will adjust, we always do:) So if you can say a little prayer for me this week as I am nervous not only about going back to work, but to a new job, lots to learn, and some days I still have "mommy" brain:) I will keep you updated on this new venture and new stage of our life, but until than I am off to savour my 16 hours left of my etended mat leave;)

Its in the details

2010-08-05T18:49:00.000-07:00

We haven't been inspired to do much painting around our house since we moved in. We painted the two bathrooms upstairs as the color was, well, ugly, so they needed to be painted. And maybe in the fall when the paint wont melt off the walls we will continue with some other rooms.
So for now, Addyson's room had to be decorated with details, as the paint color is quite neutral. Again to save $$ I have been trying to keep it simple but to add a few fun things. And oh does this girl love stuff on her walls. She is such a little smarty pants already and will point to anything new on the wall as she knows that wasn't there before!

First...I was finishing addyson's one year scrapbook and had purchased this peice of paper. But I decided that it was too cute to scrapbook over so I came up with the idea to frame it. So off to Michaels we went and I found this scrapbook frame for 40% off, so the whole cost for this picture and frame was $8! And she loves to point to it and ask what it is! I think its pretty cute;)

This clock Dave picked out. We thought it was so cute and very fitting for a wee girl who has no concept of time! yet, that is:)

I found this wall decals at Home Depot and I love them! They are textured, and bright and glossy and oh so much fun!

These letters were given to Addyson when she was born but came in white. So I decided to paint them pink with white poka dots..I love them:) And had lots of fun painting them too!

This Chandelier...oh this chandelier..well this one wasn't in the budget, but her birthday gift from her Nana and Papa, and I adore it, and so does she!

So there you have a little taste of our sweet girls room. We decided one of the reasons we don't want to paint either because one day she will be moving into the room next door, so we will wait to paint her big girl room instead! but not yet!! she is NOT a big girl yet, even if she thinks she is sometimes, I will keep my baby a little longer thank you very much!

Mini project

2010-08-03T14:39:00.000-07:00

For Addyson's first birthday We "borrowed" some chairs from my parents place, and have failed to return them yet;)*grin* My parents have so many of these white ones that we thought we would keep a few;) So four have stayed at our place and work well in our little backyard. We don't have a patio set yet, but I would like one for the backyard, as we have two chairs upstairs on our little baclony where we love to sit on these gorgeous summer nights and drink under the stars;) So with the $$ situation being tight I really need to start getting creative. So my thinking is this; spice up these white old chairs, get my mom to help me(meaning pick out the material with my mom and get her to make) make some cushions for these chairs, and keep our eyes open for a used cheap round patio table that I can spice up to match..and whalla, I will have a patio set for bbq's and card night with friends:) So, I picked up a lovely $6 can of spray paint this weekend and away I went! I made the mistake of spraying on the stone area first, and did not impress Dave as now we have some silver stones..whatever:)! But I learned from my mistake and moved to the grass and managed to get two chairs done, and I think they look snazy, new and improved! I was quite proud of myself, and think I might get addicted to the power of spray paint:)! stay tuned for more stuff in the future I think!

Before!

After!

Summer reads...

2010-07-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

I love reading in the summer time. Well, actually, I love reading all year. But there is something so special about sitting out on the porch with an ice cold coffee in hand, flipping through glorious pages of literature while baby sleeps; thats my happy place;) So I thought I would share what has been on my reading list for the summer!

I just finished reading unburdened. And let me tell ya, if you want to change, if you want to be challenged and made new in him, read this!!! I loved it!! From the way it was written, how the insight just popped off the page and into my heart, I loved it! I have such a deeper understanding of how God wants to carry our weights for us. He isn't going to make things easier, but he does promise to help us through our dark times, and carry the load for us. Anyways, there is so much more that I learned from this book that I could go on and on about, but just get a copy and read it yourself, you won't regret it!

I love Emily Giffin. I love her writting, her stories, Just love them! So when I saw she had a new book out while we were in the states last month I had to snag it up. It was a page turner like all her other books, but it was a heavy read. it deals with infidelity, and the heart of relationships, which I like, but i know some people have a hard time reading this kind of stuff. Which I totally understand. Anyways, it is an interesting read; very real though. Not a light one!

I skipped a picture for this one, but I also just recently finished reading 19 Minutes by Jodi Picoult. I don't know if you have ever read her stuff, and if you haven't, you should! Again, her books are not light reads, they are heavy moral delima books, but so well written, so fasinating, and such page turners!!! I have read many of her books, and I would say I haven't been disappointed yet!!

And this is what I am currently reading. I had never heard of Jane Green till recently she was interviewed for her new book, and was refered to as the queen of Chick Lit, so I had to check her out, as I love Chick Lit! I have just started reading this book, and so far I really like it! I picked up one more of hers too from our used book store in town that I adore!! So I will keep you posted on what I think of her by the end:)!

So what is on your summer reading list????

A lovely weekend

2010-07-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

We had a great, and very full weekend! The sun was shining, the picnic was on, and the lions were roaring:) What??? Did I just say Lions..I sure did:)*grin*

Sat, we headed out to Hicks lake to meet up with Dave's family for a fun day in the sun! I love hicks lake. Its this perfect hidden gem, that is busy enough, but not over crowed like the lovely cultus. Its also smaller and warmer too:) Addyson was all decked out in her stylin beach attire, but still wasn't to keen on the water. She went in for a bit, but heaven forbid anyone jump in or splash her, otherwise it was game over. But she loved being there, and loved exploring and walking around! And dipping her toes in just enough:)

So the lions, where do they fit into this picture?? well, after a day in the sun, we wipped home so I could get ready and head out to the LION KING with my mom. Downtown we drove, in the stupid construction..so annoying, but so worth it. I LOVE going to the theatre, and I LOVE being in my city..thats right, MY city:) It was a perfect summer evening for the theatre. The show was indescribable; we loved every moment of it. And I cried, a few tears, but I did, I have to admit it, I couldn't hold back, it was just to exciting for me! So anyways, that is where the lion fits in to this picture:) Not that we are now living in a safari or moving to Africa;however, I would like to go there now more than ever!

Moving along, yesterday we headed out to crazy Cultus Lake for our church family picnic. We had a great day with family and friends! I made this http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/the_best_chocol/ cake, and it was absolutley delish!! And my girl, she did lots of this!! yummy yummy watermelon:) Hope you all had a great weekend too!!

It really is!

2010-07-22T18:36:00.001-07:00

http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/06/the-best-coffee-cake-ever/

The Face of Love

2010-07-16T20:27:00.000-07:00

My new fav!

2010-07-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

I am still on the job hunt. Its been quite an interesting time in our lives lately, and God is opening me up to new levels of trust and faith in him. And of course, through all this, all our needs have been provided. Gods promise continues to flourish in our lives, and its been an amazing, hard, testing, fullfilling time in our life. Anyways, with that being said, I also have developed a new level of budgeting that I never even knew existed. Its amazing what you can live without, and to be honest, in some ways, we are happier than ever;)*grin* We are focusing on the good stuff....us! One of the hardest things for me to cut back on is my favorite place; Starbucks. However, since finding this little gem, it really hasn't been that bad, as now I can enjoy the goodness of the cup at home!!! I am in love with the new Starbucks Iced Via!! its fantastic!! I like to add a little milk, and a splash of vanilla syrup and I am good to go!! My favorite thing to do is, while baby(I mean toddler) sleeps in the morning, is to sit outside on my deck with a book and my iced coffee and soak up the morning sun! Now doesn't tha sound delicious???? So go try it, and tell me how you love it!!

"were having a heat wave...I wish it was a tropical heat wave.."

2010-07-08T22:06:00.001-07:00

Well, I don't know about where you live, but where I live its about 36 degrees! Ok, well right now its not, but its about 10pmish and I am still sweating! Even with two portable air conditioners in our house its TOO hot! But, enough complaining, because I LOVE the heat! I mean, a little cooler than this would be nice, but oh glorious sun, its so good to see you! Its been way to long! So all week we have been doing a lot of this..lake, lake, pool, pool, and tomorrow we are hitting up the water park! So we are enjoying ourselves immensely! What are you all doing to survive the heat??

Look whos walking!!!!

Happy Canada Day!

2010-07-04T20:40:00.000-07:00

Well, the weather isn't exactly what one would expect for this time of year. Its cold, rainy, and not nice! I don't remember the last time we had a summer this horrible, but it sucks! Word on the street is the sun is coming on Tuesday..we will see!
Even with the crappy weather we still decided to make the most of this Canada Day! We headed west with my parents to spend the day with my brother and SIL. We spent the afternoon down at white rock beach. The rain held off, and the water was suprisingly warm. Of course, after just coming home from a week at the beach, as soon as Addyson saw the sand and ocean she was off! and even in the yucky seaweed infested water, she and her fur cousin had fun! Dave ended up getting an extra long weekend, so we had a great four days off togther hanging out with family and friends, staying up way to late, watching movies, eating too much popcorn, and going through our cheap booze supply from the states!:) Monday is upon us, and back to reality..but I don't mind, I love my reality as it is right now..spending time with my girl! So happy belated Canada day, and happy fourth of July to all my friends south of the border!

Oregon Coast

2010-06-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

After what has been a very exhausting start to 2010, we decided that it was time to take a break and regroup. I am still on the job hunt, and figuring its not the best idea to start a new job than go on vacation we figured lets get out of here while we can! So, with no passport for baby, we picked on of the most beautiful places close by that was as cost effective as possible, and off we went to the lovely tax free oregon coast!
We stayed a week and had a great time!!
Devils punch bowl. An awesome lookout spot we found between Newport where we stayed, and loved, and lincoln city.

It was Dave's birthday yesterday so part of his present was this trip, and a dune buggy adventure on the amazing sand dunes. I offered for him to go quading by himself but he wanted to do something as a family, and amazingly enough we found this place that would allow babies on!! woohoo! it was so much fun, and addy loved it too! nothing like driving on the beach with the sound of the waves next to you!

Our little beach bum! she LOVED the beach! A little too much..as everytime we got close to it she would start to whine begging daddy to put her down so she could go be free..oh and chase dogs and seaguls:)

One of the most amazing sites we saw! it was a gorgeous day, and a gorgeous beach! SO neat to see all the surfers out there!

Sea Lion Caves!

Chillin on the warf

The Aquirium where you can sleep under the sharks!!

The view from our room! Dave's dream to go to Red Lobster finally came true. And the verdict..Dave needs to get some better dreams:) but we are glad we did it!!

Happy Birthday Addyson Grace!

2010-06-17T19:34:00.000-07:00

Its official, I have a one year old!!! woohoo! What a week it has been:) We leave for a little week holiday next week and I can't even begin to tell ya how much I am looking forward to this time with my little family of rest, recouperation and refocus!
Last Saturday we kicked off the birthday celebration with a friends and family birthday party for Addyson. We had about 25 people over, and had a fantstic time, eating yummy slider bugers, cupcakes, opening presents, hanging out with great friends, and even catching some sun rays at the end of the day! We are so grateful for the people in our lives who not only love us but love this little girl as one of their own, so thank you! Then, on Tuesday we celebrated her official first birthday. It was quite an emotional day for me remembering where we were only on year ago and how far we have come! I did it, I survived my first year of motherhood!
I made Addyson's favorite for breakfast, banana loaf, than we took daddy a coffee up at his work so he could give our girl birthday kisses. Than, in the evening, nana, papa, and great granny came over for dinner, strawberry shortcake, and more presents! Oh, and just to top it off.....someone decided to start walking this week! it started with a few little steps here and there, but than on her birthday she got up from a crouch position on her own, stood up and walked 5 steps right into my arms..it was heaven!!! Anyways, today was my neice's birthday, which we are celebrating on sunday with addy and Dave's side of the family, oh and fathers day too..oh and did I mention we have Dave's brothers wedding on sat?? yeh, hence why we need that vacation starting Monday:) So my girl, you are walking, have five teeth, talk lots(new words including whozit, whcih we think means who is it/what is it, and mimi which i am pretty sure is her way of saying mommy:)), you are full of laughs, are busier than ever, and are just more beautiful and fabulous every day! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY GIRL!!!xoxoxo

This girl loves stuffed animals, and the big puppy was from us for her birthday:)
Loving her new puppy!

Reading her new book with daddy

reading her card from nana and papa

Strawberry shortcake her actual birthday dessert!

Blowing out the candels on her birthday!

Birthday banana Loaf!

Her first cupcake at her party, she was in love!

Why are all these people looking at me and singing??

Opening presents!

OUR BIRTHDAY GIRL!!

Spaghetti Night! This doesn't need explaining!

2010-06-11T13:17:00.001-07:00

Maplewood Farm

2010-06-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

Dave got a random day off this Tuesday(the joys of construction), so we decided to make the most of the beautiful weather and head out to the north shore to Maplewood Farms. I love this place! Addy had a great time seeing and touching all the animals. However, we didn't let her pet them too much as new parents and warning signs everywhere about E coli and hand washing, we were a little paranoid!! oh well, we let her poke a goat in the nose and pet his ear, that was enough:) and this goat, she was unsure of what he was doing..but they are so cute together;)!

Chilling with some goat friends..and yes I need a tan!

My beautiful Girl!

The Farm!

I highly recommend a day here with your family!!!

Addyson 11 months

2010-05-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

I am two weeks behind schedule, but never late than never!..right???
As you can see from the lack of pictures in this post I haven't been taking much lately. Need to charge the battery, and I am just that tired and lazy!
Anyways, we are now two weeks away from the big one!! I can't believe it! I no longer will have a baby, and will be entering the toddler stage, and let me tell ya, there are moments when I know its already begun! So much we are having with this girl. She is so close to walking. She pulls herself on everything now and is moving around furniture and every once in a while she gets brave and lets go for a few seconds, but once she realizes that she is standing alone, to our bum we go! The biggest change besides the moving around part that we have seen in her this last month is her verbal skills. her babbling has turned more into gibberish if that makes any sense. Instead of making lots of noise, which she still does, its like she is trying to have a conversation with you, and I love it:) So off to plan for the big one! Its hard deciding what to do. For me its kind of like go big or go home, but the stage of life we are in right now kind of leaves room for only going home:) So simple and sweet it will be, but with lots of love of family and friends! so I will be back as the last month in our crazy schedule is approaching, so there will be lots to share!!

24 hours

2010-05-26T23:06:00.001-07:00

Its amazing sometimes what can happen in 24 hours. In 24 hours you can go from being single to being married. In 24 hours you can go from being pregnant to holding a sweet baby in your arms and say those sweet words, I am a mommy! In 24 hours your whole world can flip upside down with something that rocks you to the core. In 24 hours, you can develop a new, deeper, and much more beautiful understanding of what it means to love...and that is what happened to me. 24 hours ago we had a first around here, our first trip to the emergency room. Addy had been spiking fevers for the past two days, and I was starting to get concerned. When your 11 month old curls up with you on your chest gripping to your hair and falls asleep you know something is not right in that little body. So exactly 24 hours ago we packed her up and off we went. Three hours later we were home with a deliriously overtired baby, a broken fever and a prescription. Those three hours in the hospital are something I will never forget. Watching your baby look around so innocently with amazement, trusting that everything is going to be fine because mama is here. Watching my baby girl scream bloody murder as she has to sit on a bed while a big machine takes her picture. Syringe feeding your baby water and apple juice desperately trying to get that pee sample. Watching your baby come to the point in the night where she has accepted this new hospital room and lets go, embraces the situation and toy in hand and enjoys the moment(oh yeh, and maybe a good dose of tylenol had something to do with that). But in those moments, more than anytime before I really felt like I was her mom, we were in this together, our little family of three. No phone calls to my parents, or D's parents, just us, and I knew in that room we were going to be ok..I can do this. Holding my baby this weekend in a way she hasn't wanted since being a newborn brought me to a new place. A deeper love, a richer connection, and a bigger mama bear instinct to know that she is my everything and nothing is going to stop me to make sure that girl is ok. She is going to fall, she is going to bruise, she is going to hurt, but at the end of the day I can make her understand that she is so loved and so significant and needed in this world, than that is enough for me, I have done my job. All in 24 hours....

A bucket and Shovel

2010-05-16T20:29:00.000-07:00

I call this picture below I am now a toddler;) This is the results of 2 hours of fun in the sand, and one very overtired baby! Perfect isn't it??:)
We headed up to the Kelowna this weekend for sad reasons; my great aunt past away. She was a dear sweet lady who had been living with althizmers, and passed away on the 10th. It was a beautiful service and tribute to a woman who loved the lord, and her family. My eyes swelled with tears when I flipped to the back of the program at the service to see a handwritten note from my uncle to my aunt, on their wedding day, some 60 years ago..titled "My Sweetheart"...pure love I tell ya!
Dave and I figured since we were heading up that way we would make a mini vacation out of it and spend the night. So after the memorial service, and a quick family stop to starbucks for frappy hour, we changed and headed to the beach. The weather was perfect! We grabbed some sushi take out, and addyson's new bucket and beach toys and set up camp. It was the perfect 2 hour vacation ever! My little family...it makes me so excited for the many more to come!
So of course I had to get a little camera happy while we were there breathing in the warmth.

What a mess!! A perfect Mess!

Me and my girl:)

Feeling the texture of sand in her hands!

My Loves....

My favorite shot of the day...nothing better..

yumm....sushi....

Addy eating chicken with chop sticks!

Until next time sun, we hope to see you around our parts soon!

Soaking up the Rays

2010-05-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

Addyson and I stepped outside for a few moments this afternoon to soak up some rays in my wee backyard for the first time..it was perfect!

Oh how she loves bunny..and bunny's colors match her dress!

My beautiful tree that in a few months will bare delicious fruit!!

How can you not love this face?

Such a lady already:)

Ok mom enough photos!

Mothers Day

2010-05-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday was obviously mothers day, and my first one! I don't have much pictures from the day, but here is me and my girl all prettied up before church! I have to admit, my first mothers day was a little anti climactic. It was a nice day, a lovely day..but yet still, somehow I ended up in the kitchen, which just feels wrong!:) my favorite part of the day was after missy napped my mom and SIL drove down the hill to starbucks to grab some of those 50% off frapps! and we all headed to the park..it was perfect, relaxing, blissful; one of those moments you dream of really..so that was great! So what was the let down?? I don't know..its just wierd. I think its the combination of celebrating your mom, while also trying to celebrate you too. Plus, add on, his mother, sisters, friends..oh vey! Does anyone have this problem right now in life where celebrating and things that should be joyous times seem to be taking a lot of work and by the end of it everyone is exhausted?? Ok, well maybe its just me because I am in desperate need of a vacation..and a job! but anyways, this is suppose to be about mothers day..right, well, with all this complaining I just did...I can't even begin to tell ya what a priveldge it is to be this little girls mama! I feel so incredibly blessed, and just wanted to savour every moment with her on this day. Even so to the point of being a little sad when it was her nap time! Anyways, I am grateful for a wonderful mother, MIL, and so proud of the many mama friends and SIL's in my life! Thank you for making this world a better place by loving the people God gave you to love!

Frappaccino time!

2010-05-04T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, so anyone who knows me knows my love for the Starbucks...an addiction really...but anyways, we don't need to air our dirty laundry on here;) Well, from May 7-16th I believe, from 3-5pm its half off frappaccino happy hour!!! So you know where i will be every day at that time!!! fabulous i tell ya!!! summer is coming people, I can taste it:)

We Survived

2010-05-02T20:12:00.001-07:00

We are in the month of May which means we officially survived the month of April! 7 birthday's, one birth, a baby shower, an outing or two...what a month! So much fun celebrating though:)
I have to say I am loving this stage that we have entered where now I go to my childs friends party..so wierd! As I put my baby girl on the ground and watch her play with her friends, or not, it is such a sight to see. I sit and watch and wonder what it will be like next year, and the year after, and the year after....
This journey is such a joy. Its my favorite thing right now. Everything about this little girl I just want to eat up, soak in, savor, absorb, lather myself in the greatness that is being her mom, being her friend, being in her life and watching her daily change into this little princess of the king. And maybe its the perspective that I live in right now, that my time of hourly interaction is limited, that makes me appreciate these moments so much more, but I will take it. I am about quality over quantity, so I will take it.
Right now, I have not idea what this month is going to bring. I am officially laid off..so wierd to say, but its true, and now we wait. Well job search like a mad woman; but wait on the Lord for his direction for our lives. I am so scared, excited, nervous, resentful, happy..you name it, if its an emotion I am feeling it right now. But what I am thankful for today, because I CHOOSE to be, is that this new development has bought me time. Bought me hours with my girl, to enjoy our daily routine we have created together over these past months. And the rest, well thats up to HIM, so lets wait and see what he has in store..from my past experience its usually good:)

stuck in the middle.

2010-04-23T21:21:00.000-07:00

I feel as thought, right now, I am stuck in the middle of here and there and everywhere! ok, I don't know what that means. But, what I do know is I am patiently waiting on the lord. See, my maternity runs out this week...yup, that time has come already:(
three months ago if you asked me if I was going back to my old job, I would have said no way. Well, thats because I didn't think there was a job for me to go back to. But, when my boss approached me about a job share opportunity I was intrigued. So, I said I was interested and he began the process of speaking to the powers up above..well, sometimes that doesn't always go as plan. As of today, I am still not sure if I am going back, but I hope to know by Monday either way. Right now, my bosses boss wants me to come back full time commuting to where our head office is 2 hours away!!seriously??? So, I had a bit of anxiety today not knowing what the future holds, but I continue to trust in God. And that if this isn't where he wants me to be another door is going to open very very soon! Oh how i wish I could stay home and be with this little doll every day, but unfortunatly that isn't a choice at this stage in our life..so we keep praying that God is going to work out the next best thing. And I do look forward to going back to using my brain, that part I am looking forward to..I just wish it wasn't such a rush decision and I could take my time figuring out what I want to do...anyways, but again, life doesn't always work out that way, and we have to make the best of what we have to work with:)*grin* see me smiling:)
Anyways, so I say this, to all you mama's out there that get to stay at Home and be with your little people all day every day, I know its the hardest job in the world at times, I KNOW, but please hear this, you are blessed.....And in my little opinion, if you get to do that and do something you love on the side for some extra $$$, you are double blessed. So today, if you wanted to pull out your hair(like I did when my girl didn't want to NAP), just remember, you are in such a great place, and the joy comes back in the morning!

So, while I wait for my answer as to which way to turn next on this journey..this is what I have been trying to do with my time...soak up the sun with my girl; the little that their has been!

Addyson 10 Months old!

2010-04-16T20:49:00.001-07:00

Oh princess how fast you grow, and change, and blossom with personality! I can't believe she is ten months old! I know i say this every month, but seriously?? Why does time have to go so fast?? Than, on the other hand, I get so excited thinking about the next phase that she is going to enter and all the wonder and curiousity of life it is going to bring!
This month, well it was an interesting month. It started off with a nasty virus for our little missy right in the middle of us moving; not so much fun! But than, as we settled into our new space, she started to get busy exploring all her new surroundings. She starting army crawling this month, but hasn't progressed past that. She loves to walk around though holding your hand, but not quite ready to venture out on her own around furniture and such. She pulled herself up into a sitting position today in her crib for the first time; that was quite entertaining!
She continues to battle the teething demon. She had a week and a half of non stop tears, red cheeks, fevers, swollen gums, ect, but now it seems to have died down a bit. Her gums are still raw, and I can feel the teeth coming down but nothing cut through yet. I do think she is working on about 8 or so teeth right now so I am hoping they all pop through at once and get it over with so we can go back to a pain free zone!
The last couple days though that she has been feeling better we have noticed a huge jump in her verbal skills. She talks A LOT. nothing concrete yet, but not as much babbling now and more trying to form words. She is obsessed with bananas to the point I had to move them out of her eyesite during meal times or that is all she wants to eat! She can sign "please" and she claps for "finished". She loves to shake her head NO, oh yes, this girl knows what she wants and doesn't want...I think some of us could take some tips from her;)

And as usual, words can't even begin to describe how we feel about this girl..she truely is the best!

April showers...nope, more like April madness!

2010-04-13T13:37:00.001-07:00

Well, here is a little update on life around these parts. April is crazy! We are still busy getting settled in around here. Boxes are unpacked, and most pictures are hung up, its just detail stuff now. We painted our bathroom the other day, and now need to paint the main one. That's all the painting for now..the rest will be done later this spring I am thinking! April is our birthday month! So far we have celebrated 3!! And as far as I know, so far, we have 4 more to go! Throw in a baby shower, and another baby in our life due this month..its crazytown..but lots of fun! Celebrating is a good thing:) Its so hard to believe that this time last year all the babies were being born, and now we are celebrating all their first birthdays! what a year it has been! So now we are in need of a vacation. Maybe this summer??:)
Oh and yes, back to work, that time has come! I am still not sure at this point if I am going back to my old job or looking for something new. that part is still up in the air. But the plan is part time, so I can still have that time with my girl! I was quite stressed about the situation last week, but this week I have more peace and I am trusting God, as he always comes through for us!

So April showers, birthday, and more....life is full, blessed, exhausting, crazy...and i highly doubt that will ever change!

The View

2010-04-08T15:50:00.001-07:00

Hey ladies, just letting you know that the Pioneer Woman is going to be on the View tomorrow(Friday)!

Its funny at first I wasn't to sure about this whole Pioneer Woman can cook thing. I think it was pride though stopping me from loving her. I mean, I hate being the last on the bandwagon, and hate beeing a follower, but I am ebracing the process. The reality is that I have found so many new loves of my life through this blog world, and I have many of YOU to thank for that! And I always hope I can pass on a few goodies to, as I love sharing GOOD NEWS! but anyways, I think what has made me fall in love with this woman is that i can totally relate to her. I am a bonafide city girl, born and raised, who's falling in love with a small town boy, and am now loving the country living. Well, I am not quite physically there yet..I mean i still live in a townhouse, on a hill..but I do live very close to many farms! and my new dream is to one day own one of those little pieces of heaven...what??? did that just come out of my mouth??? Ok, well not a full fledged farm, but a little rancher with some baby goats..that would make heart a glow;) what can I say, my modo on life is if I can't live in the heart of a city like Vancouver, San Fran, New York(to name a few of my favorites) than stick me way out in the country..so here i am:) Oh and thank the good Lord that I do live by a Starbucks...that poor girl! I don't know how she does it! I mean she's a lot richer for it, but still...

I have to confess-or my not me monday as some call it!

2010-04-05T14:06:00.000-07:00

I sure didn't do this...I sure didn't stare and judge the mom breasfeeding her I am guessing 2 and a half year old boy with no hooter hider in starbucks today..no not me, I would never do that;)

Easter

2010-04-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

Another long weekend has come and gone. I am sad as they go by way to quickly! We had all these things around the house we wanted to get done this weekend, but we didn't! but its ok, because we had a great time catching up on sleep, eating yummy food, and hanging out with Family. Friday morning we went to good friday service and than out for greek food with my parents and my granny..delicious!! We went home to, like I said, get stuff done, but intstead, Addy and daddy had a big afternoon nap:) So I curled up on the couch and watch a movie. The rest of the evening was nice and relaxing too. We watched the movie Precious finally. I was nervous to see it, but it actually wasn't as bad as we thought it was going to be. Don't get me wrong it was still quite the heavy movie, but I have seen worse! Sat was a busy day of grocery shopping, running errands(such as buying a new tv..finally!! our house warming gift to ourselves), and cooking up a storm. We were off to Dave's family dinner on sat night, church sunday morning, than lunch at our new place!!! I was so happy to have everyone over!! and to finally have room for people to sit and relax and enjoy our view. All in all a lovely day, and a great weekend! Now monday, back to reality! hope everyone had a great weekend with your loved ones as well!!

Our little easter bunny

In her easter sunday dress avec teething cheeks:)

Sunday morning bunny ears and bunny sleeper!

Her Good friday dress! Looking out mommy's window!

Gap Sprize

2010-04-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

So Like everyone else right now I am all about saving money when I can! So I went into the Gap today to TRY and find a new pair of jeans...ok, well actually I went to dry and find a dress for Easter(don't even get me started on that!), but I got sidetracked by the jeans. I really wanted to find a pair of the boyfriend style that I can make into cropped style for Spring and summer, and I did:) Anyways, They have this membership card thing, which at first I thought, not another one! But actually I like this one! I am a BIG baby gap fan, but can't justify the money on it all the time, so maybe this is a way I can get a few things once in a while;) Anyways, its this lovely membership card that everytime you shop they track your purchases; if your item goes on sale within 45 days after your purchase they will give you the difference back! pretty sweet I would say! And the best part, on your first purchase, you save 20% So today, I Bought a pair of dress pants on sale, my jeans, which i didn't even know were on sale, and a pair of Jeans for the man of the house, all for.....$120!!! I think that is a pretty good deal:) oh and the jeans, my butt crack doesn't hang out of them...bonus points for that! So somewhat successful shopping day! oh and if anyone can tell me please where i can fidn some cute spring dresses I would greatly appreciate it! Happy Easter everyone!!!!

Food Revolution!

2010-03-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, here is my six post of the day, but of course you are probably reading this one first, so scroll down for more;)

I don't know if any of you have heard about this or watched this show, but it is definitely fascinating stuff. Jamie Oliver, a favorite cook of mine has started a food revolution in the states. He is starting in the most unhealthy city in the states, and let me tell ya, its quite scary. First of all the feed kids pizza for breakfast at the schools!!What???? Anyways, Its all about trying to bring some nutrition into these kids lives. Especially since they don't know what a vegetable is???!!! Anyways, this was the second thing i saw on this today. I don't usually watch to much daytime television, but it was one of those Fridays, so i caught Oprah which had Jamie on, and Bonnie Hunt, with a special guest talking about the same thing. Did you know that there are 45 some odd ingredients in Burger kings Chicken strips??? Seriously?? when you could make them at home with five easy ingredients!!! Anyways, I pride myself on cooking a lot at home. Actually more than most people do. But we do have a few bad habits. I like chips:) Which I am trying to eat less of, and since stopping breastfeeding my cravings are down big time, so that is helping! But I do buy M and M chicken strips, and run through Wendy's once in a while. Anyways watching what they use to make chicken mcnuggets, and don't even get me started on what they use to make fish fillet at mcDonalds. lets just say I am thankful I have NEVER eaten one! Anyways, its just made me more conscious of not being lazy and sticking to cooking from scratch. Than at least I know what is going in my body and my families! so If you have time, check out this show on Friday nights on ABC:) there is my plug for the day, to bad I don't get paid for it:)*grin*

Some Say love....

2010-03-26T19:58:00.001-07:00

Is like a red red rose; I say its like a sweet little girl with a red red rose from her daddy:)

A Grandparents Love...

2010-03-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

ok, I am full of posts today! lots of stuff on my mind, just haven`t had time to get them down here;) So read down on my blog as there is still more:)

So this one comes from the latest book I am `currently reading called à million miles in a thousand years by Donald Miller. By the way I am only through a third of the book and I already highly recommend, such a fascinating read!!!

Ok, so when Addyson was born, I saw something new birthed in my parents that I have never seen before. I know my parents love my brother and I more than anything else in the world, but there is something different that happened when I had Addy. I couldn`t put my finger on it, I wasn`t jealous of it, but I was in awe of it. I was talking about it to my dad one day, and he made the statement that he could never love Addyson more than me, and I believe that..but the same..I never imagined till i had her, and saw it happened. I guess its the whole my baby`s baby thing. But when I read this passage in this book, it started to totally make sense.
Actually Donald Miller quotes an entry from another book called A Year of Days with the Book of Common Prayer by Edmond Browning..here it is....

`I have the good fortune to be a grandfather. Twelve times. Oh sure, I loved being a father. There were so many of us Brownings-Patti and I have five children-so much to keep track of with the comings and goings of all of them through the years, that I never really thought much about becoming a grandfather until the reality of it was almost upon me. I was unprepared for the emotional power of seeing that first tiny member of our next generation. I often wonder exactly what it is about the grandchildren that moves me so.`

Miller goes on to say-I fell asleep that night thinking about that passage, taking comfort in the fact that we change over time and our perspective sharpens with experience. I don`t think Edmond Browning loves his grandchildren more than he loves his children, but I think he loves them differently. Perhaps he understands more acutely the importance of love and the beauty of life itself, the inestimable potency of beauty within the tiny newness of his grandchild. I think Edmond Browning must have felt more accurately what is important and what is not, and what was most important would have been love, the severe desire for the child, not to succeed, but to fearlessly engage in a world in which love is so fearfully exchanged.

this post comes to you from addy

2010-03-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

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:)

Crazy Love Continued!

2010-03-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

So i finished this book last week, and yes I will say its a must read! Very convicting, a little overwhelming, somewhat extreme, but something to survive for. The one thing that the author Francis Chan talks about is giving. His church gives 55% of their income away! can you believe that??? But what I love, is they started with 3% and build from there. So for us who aren't in that position of life yet, and my philosophy is give till it hurts, well we do what we can..and I know we need to push for. I also believe that giving isn't just cash; its time, energy, love, a hug, kind words, acts of services..giving is showing love in any and every form. So my encouragment would be do it the way you can! Use the resources God has given you in whatever form that comes in. Who knows the doors it will open up. And LOVE....and again, like I said in my last post on this book, I am still on a journey of understanding to the full capicity of what that means...but i love learning every day!! and I am practicing on my family every day:) I guess it goes back to the principles of Corinthians 13

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Can Anyone relate?

2010-03-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am probably about to throw myself under the bus here, but I am that tired from this week that I don't really care;) maybe its the creepy eye problem I am still having and therefore having to wear my glasses every day. Maybe its the mid length hair issues I am having as I am trying to grow it out. Maybe its the ten pounds of baby weight that I am still desperartly trying to loose yet not really doing too much about it. Maybe its the pale skin I am sporting right now, as the winter dreary rain is starting to get to me. Maybe its just that I need a vacation! but, my point is, my "physical" self esteem is at about a minus five right now! I am having a really hard time feeling "pretty" again after having baby. It doesn't help living in sweat pants all day, and sure I can slap some make up on and such but its just so much work when you don't have any motivation to do it for something other than yourself. Don't get me wrong, the basics go on every day, but no fun color:) I guess i am in a little bit of an identity crisis as I know my body will never be the same again. I know my hips wont go back, that my rib cage is forever expanded..thats life. But trying to fit into this new me seems to be quite the challenge. Where to shop, what to wear, how to feel good when your gut is rolling over your pants...oh my! Anyways, so I am not asking for a pity party for myself, but if anyone else can jump on this wagon with me please do..I hate feeling alone:) or if anyone has any good tips for cheap and easy pick me ups, please share!!

ok...pulling myself from under the bus now..

Moving day

2010-03-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

Moving day has come and gone and I can honestly say that its one of those days that I am good with disappearing. I am not going to lie, it was quite the stressful weekend for us! Thursday night Addyson started coming down with a cold..not good. Friday was a rough day for my girl, which inturn equals a rough day for mommy. I felt like I had so much to do still but couldn't focus with snuffleufugus snotting everywhere. I hate seeing my baby sick, its one of the worst things. They are so innocent and unsure of what is going on, all they know is they don't feel good! I wish I could take it away and be in pain for her..it sucks!(Oh and to top off the craziness of this weekend I burst a blood vessel in my eye and look slightly creepy!!)
After Friday night of what felt like i had a newborn all over again, Dave went out to do some things, while I sat in our disaster of an apartment, and tried to keep a smile on my sicky's face. We waited patiently for the keys which were handed over to us at six pm..and than we were off. Saturday felt like the slowest longest day ever. Again being completly sleep deprieved probably had something to do with it~ and the anxiety of this day finally being here, it was almost too hard to believe! We moved a few boxes over that night, and did the big move on sunday. Addyson went to spend the day with her nana, which was a blessing:) She was starting to feel better and had a good 4 hour nap while there. Feeling better meaning she could finally breathe through her nose enough to get into a good sleep. The day went relatively smooth, just long. And we are here now, with boxes, well not everwhere but around:) We actually did a good job of getting a lot setup yesterday and me today so that it feels like we can live in it. I don't think the reality of the situation has hit yet, we are finally here. Something we have been waiting for so long...its here. It still feels surreal. Dave said yesterday that it feels like we are housitting. Thank God we are not! God is so good and continually blesses our lives abundantly! today we are tired, addy is still recovering, but we have peace and quite. I appreciate more today than ever the simple things in life, as they make the days so complete. And when things are simple, I can think clearer, see clearer, breathe easier. And even though we moved on a crazy day, missing two birthday and the birth of a new princess:(, well, it had to be done, and that is all apart of this crazy life!
That is another lesson I am learning so fast, life is getting busier and busier!! and i think it is just beginning:)!

So tonight, I am going to curl up in bed with my honey, with a glass of wine, and stare out at our beautiful view!!

Crazy Love!

2010-03-19T08:43:00.001-07:00

Through some blog surfing I found this book. So I hopped on the fabulous amazon.ca and picked this lovely book up plus three others...for cheap! Again, my new book buying place;)

I am more than half way through this book, and I know its usually good to wait till the end to do a review, but I just cant. I love this book. But at the same time I dislike it as well! What??? Well, I can't stop reading it but every page puts a knot in my stomach as the conviction level is through the roof!! This book has challenged me in my journey of understanding what it means to be a christian. It really has made me question, do I really understand what it means to LOVE? And to be honest, I still don't have that answered, so I will keep reading:) And be back again after I finish reading this page turner!

3 More Sleeps

2010-03-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

3 more sleeps and I will be in my new home! Can you tell I can't wait?? This has actually been a tough week. Counting the days, hours before we move, living in chaos..I am ready!! So here's praying the next two days go by fast so I can breathe a little easier:) I guess the one thing about having to wait a little longer some times than we like for something is it makes us appreciate it that much more. So ungrateful I am not for this move, new place, new space. God is good!

Addyson 9 Months

2010-03-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

Time continues to fly around here! My little princess turned nine months yesterday...sigh:(

Its going by so fast, but to be expected! Time flies when you are having fun...well most of the time. The hardest thing for me to stomach right now is going back to work in a month...I hate the thought in so many ways. Its not that I don't like working, and using my brain, I do, but its such a torn thing, as I don't want to leave HER! But what i am praying for is that going back to work will help me cherish the time I do have with her even more. Making the most of the moments!! Thats not such a bad thing right?? And I know once we get into the change it will be ok, I will adjust, get use to the fact of other people spending the days with who I think is the coolest little person in the world:)

Anyways, so where are we at:

Well, the one thing that I have to say I am OK with leaving a few days a week, is the little temper and attitude that is starting to awake:)*grin* Oh yes, it has begun. The stage of challenging EVERYTHING! Like the temper tantrum in the grcoery store yesterday when her horrible mother wouldn't give her, her starbucks cup. I know I am cruel.

Or the fact that my little poo bum has discovered she had lungs, and likes to use them, causing her mothers head to want to explode by the end of the day. Thank God for Advil! That has slowed down now though and I am hoping that it was only a few days of experimenting! But oh what fun she is! I love this age, well every age, but this one is fun! She is so busy now! trying to crawl, but not quite there. I actually look forward to her getting more mobile, as she can just follow me around instead of falling apart when I go around the corner. She loves to stand, and bang, and chat, and scream, pick up every little piece of dirt on the floor and examine it. She LOVES little people and animals. I think I see a puppy sometime in the future:)

She is full of joy, full of life and kisses and hugs. She loves to wave:) we are working on blowing kisses but not quite getting that one yet! We took her to the doctor today and she is 29 inches already!! oh my! but only 17 pounds..a tiny girl she is:) I am hoping this means she got her daddy's metabolism, if so, she is one lucky girl!!!

I just love her..even when she drives me crazy, and I know that there are some mommy daughter battles to come in the future I just love being with her! So happy nine months my girl, you are so loved....we are so blessed!

Ukee Fun:)!

2010-03-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Addyson's first time in the sand, this moment melted my heart!

Wikininish beach!

The bathroom, it was amazing!!!!

The view from our room!

This weekend, our little family took off to the island for a weekend of, well, anything but here;) We both needed a break from all this school and house stuff and wanted to regroup before making the big move this weekend! So off we went. We left bright and early Friday morning, caught the ferry, and made the drive to Ucluelet. We were shocked to see snow! thats right, snow! on the way up, but it just made it more adventurious not knowing what weather conditions we were going to get! The great thing about vancouver island is it doesn't matter what the weather is, its beautiful! We arrived at our AMAZING resort(the Black Rock Resort), courtesy of a friend of ours that works there:) We strolled into our gorgeous one bedroom condo/hotel room and felt so blessed! the view from our room was amazing, listening to the sound of waves crashing was beautiful, sitting by the fireplace in the evening with a glass of wine, well that was perfection! Our trip was short and sweet, but a great break! we had a great time, and can't wait for the next adventure! Addy did amazing too on the trip, she is such a great little traveller, I was quite proud! but i have to admit..I think the next little trip we do will be sans baby. just a little more romantic:)

The craziness continues!

2010-03-08T19:46:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of what our place looks like right now...nice, no???:)! It looks like this because we are moving!!!!! I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am! These last two and a half months have been crazy for us! which seems to be a constant thing in our life, but even more so than normal. Dave has been busy in school and completed that the middle of February and we went right from that to trying to buy a place. There are lots of details that I won't get into about how we managed to finally get to this place, but we are here. in TWO weeks, we will be moving from our first home together, our first home purchased together..and well, a lot more firsts happened here:)...but we are now moving on to bigger and better things! We say goodbye, but not so much, as we are renting it out:) but we are moving on and up in the world..literally, we are moving up the hill! We are moving from a 900 square foot apartment to over 2000 square feet of townhouse living!! For those who know us well no how hard this journey has been. To be honest living in our apartment has been probably thee biggest stressor in our marriage over the past two and a half years. One of the reasons, and probably the biggest reason is that we have had the most horrible people living above us..ok, well horrible in the sense that they are so loud!! One little monkey has sounded like ten elephants running over our heads for the past two years!! And soon, no more! there have been many other little things, and lets face it, three people in 900 square feet..well its tight at times. Especially to as I am married to a carpenter, not so ideal when your laundry room has doubled as a tool shed! So I can't wait!! I cant wait to not have to truck across the parking lot with baby and groceries, now I get to park my car in the garage, walk into the hallway and right into the kitchen..bliss! I can't wait to walk into my house and not smell my hubbies stinky work clothes every day. I can't wait to have FOUR bathrooms!!! I don't even care that I have to clean four bathrooms, I can't wait to go from ONE bathroom to FOUR!!! I cant wait to have people over, as now we will have space and i won't be embarrased of the lack of space, or noise..or other things. God is so good..and though it seems like this day was never going to get here, I know its just around the corner!!! It doesn't seem real yet in so many ways, I am sure it might not hit me till we are out of here and sleeping in our new master bedroom! I am ready, so ready for this change. Stay tuned for lots more in our lives as this spring is going to be a busy one! Stay tuned after this weekend, as we are going on a quick getaway to regroup recoup..and come back ready to move!!

Oh and just a little picture of our favortie person!!!