Seeing as how we have travelled 1500 miles to visit our family over the Christmas holidays (yes, all by truck, and yes, all with a 3 and 5 year old), I thought I'd share my ideas on how to not go crazy when visiting family for this long. (We are the mercy of our families, and have to play nice, otherwise we'd be homeless...oh yeah, and we love them)
How To Not Go Crazy in 21 Days (whilst living with family over the Christmas holidays)
*ahem*
10. Eggnog and rum. Lots of rum.
9. Lots of outings with friends while leaving the kids under the care of any available Grandparent. (Much of the time it's a dump and dash - dump the kids with the Grandparent and dash out the door)
8. Make funny "parental" faces to your siblings when your parent says something that's reminiscent of the Costanza's. Yelling out "GEORGIE!!!!!" helps, too.
7. Allow yourself to roll your eyes as often as you feel will keep you sane, but not so much that they get stuck in the back of your head. (I know that could never happen, but I've come close)
6. Realize that every time you see your parents, they are getting a little older, and will say things that don't make sense. (For example: last night, my Dad says, "you do realize that you are at the age where, when you are trying to figure out who a person is just by their name that they may come from a generation after you, right?" WHAT?!)
5. Retail therapy.
4. Look forward to all of the driving we have to do to get home after this is all said and done. All of that glorious "just my little family - alone time".
3. Bury myself in my computer pretending to be researching gifts or the weather, or how a little dog from New York ended up being found in Arizona 8 years later.
2. Know that my mother in law means well when she keeps asking to give my 5 year old daughter an ipod for Christmas. Leap Pad will do, thankyouverymuch.
1. Be able to very discreetly look over at my husband with an expressionless expression and see that in his eyes, he gets that I'm ready to lose my mind from the chaos that is 21 days with the family over Christmas holidays.
***disclaimer - I love both of our families very much, and acknowledge that although I'm pretty wonderful, they probably also have their own coping mechanisms for having me around for 21 days***
Thoughts From The Wells
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Lest We Forget....
 |
| courtesy of google images In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. -Major John McCrae God bless our fearless soldiers, and those who are left waiting for them. |
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
I Did It!!!!!!!!
After only 8 months with Arbonne (and if we're being honest, only 3 serious months), I have gotten a promotion to District Manager!!!! I'm so darn excited!!
This company is completely amazing! The opportunities that they are offering their consultants are truly incredible - it's becoming clearer and clearer to me that this is a company that takes care of its people!!
I am so fortunate and blessed that I chose this journey 8 months ago, I can't wait to see where I am in a year, 3 years, 5 years.... I have the opportunity to stay home with my kids, chose my own hours and live my life the way I want to! That totally sounds like an infommercial....LOL! But in all sincerity, it's true!
I heard the other day that only 1% of Canadians have even heard of Arbonne....that is such exciting news - I just can't wait to keep sharing this company and watching how amazed and thrilled people are about these products!
Soooooo excited!!! (can'tchya tell?!?!)
This company is completely amazing! The opportunities that they are offering their consultants are truly incredible - it's becoming clearer and clearer to me that this is a company that takes care of its people!!
I am so fortunate and blessed that I chose this journey 8 months ago, I can't wait to see where I am in a year, 3 years, 5 years.... I have the opportunity to stay home with my kids, chose my own hours and live my life the way I want to! That totally sounds like an infommercial....LOL! But in all sincerity, it's true!
I heard the other day that only 1% of Canadians have even heard of Arbonne....that is such exciting news - I just can't wait to keep sharing this company and watching how amazed and thrilled people are about these products!
Soooooo excited!!! (can'tchya tell?!?!)
Thursday, October 20, 2011
If I Had A Nickel For Every Time I've Been Peed On...
Let's just start off by saying I knew this was going to be hard. It was hard with my daughter, and I have no idea what I'm doing with my son.
Potty training sucks.
I have no idea on how to train a boy. He won't stand up and will only sit on the potty with his legs so wide apart he looks like he's training for the 2024 Olympic gymnastics team. The one thing I do know is this:
legs spread wide = hips being raised = peeing device being raised = ever so patient Mom, who sits on the floor singing Wiggles songs ad nauseum, gets covered in pee.
And, it usually happens 5 minutes before heading out the door. (I may or may not have left the house with teeny tiny pee spots on my shirt this morning). Don't judge.
I know so little about training a boy, that I've had to ask questions of my husband about what I can do and shouldn't do (I don't want to hurt the poor boy, and I am looking for what I'm missing....). I am met with strange looks from hubby, strange enough that I want to throw a roll of toilet paper at him (or at least sit him in front of the line of fire...)
With all of this aggravation, there is still a cheer of victory every time he does pee, and the gummy bears taste oh so good! Now with the introduction of licorice as a "poo" treat, I'm afraid potty training isn't only going to turn a few hairs white, it's going to add inches to my hips.
But.
If I never see another diaper again, I'm willing to sacrifice my rock star hips, 'cause I'm a good Mom like that.
Potty training sucks.
I have no idea on how to train a boy. He won't stand up and will only sit on the potty with his legs so wide apart he looks like he's training for the 2024 Olympic gymnastics team. The one thing I do know is this:
legs spread wide = hips being raised = peeing device being raised = ever so patient Mom, who sits on the floor singing Wiggles songs ad nauseum, gets covered in pee.
And, it usually happens 5 minutes before heading out the door. (I may or may not have left the house with teeny tiny pee spots on my shirt this morning). Don't judge.
I know so little about training a boy, that I've had to ask questions of my husband about what I can do and shouldn't do (I don't want to hurt the poor boy, and I am looking for what I'm missing....). I am met with strange looks from hubby, strange enough that I want to throw a roll of toilet paper at him (or at least sit him in front of the line of fire...)
With all of this aggravation, there is still a cheer of victory every time he does pee, and the gummy bears taste oh so good! Now with the introduction of licorice as a "poo" treat, I'm afraid potty training isn't only going to turn a few hairs white, it's going to add inches to my hips.
But.
If I never see another diaper again, I'm willing to sacrifice my rock star hips, 'cause I'm a good Mom like that.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
BREAKING NEWS!!!
My good friend, Single Infertile Female is hosting a holiday shopping party!! Holidays. Shopping. Seriously, how much better can it get?!
Okay, so here's the lowdown!
1. The Arbonne holiday shopping party starts today, and ends in 10 days on October 25th. Only U.S. residents are eligible to participate (sorry to my Canadian friends, I can't include orders from other countries in an American party).
2. Visit SIF over in her blogfrog community to get information, share what you love or just to read what others are saying about amazing Arbonne products!
3. Visit my Arbonne website here to browse all of the fantastic products.
4. Email me with any questions or orders. (This is an important one!! If you order off the website, you won't be included in the benefits of the party - for every $500 sold, I'm giving away a Pampermint set to one lucky person who places an order!!!)
Okay, so here's the lowdown!
1. The Arbonne holiday shopping party starts today, and ends in 10 days on October 25th. Only U.S. residents are eligible to participate (sorry to my Canadian friends, I can't include orders from other countries in an American party).
2. Visit SIF over in her blogfrog community to get information, share what you love or just to read what others are saying about amazing Arbonne products!
3. Visit my Arbonne website here to browse all of the fantastic products.
4. Email me with any questions or orders. (This is an important one!! If you order off the website, you won't be included in the benefits of the party - for every $500 sold, I'm giving away a Pampermint set to one lucky person who places an order!!!)
courtesy of Arbonne.ca
(I mean seriously, can't you just smell it?!)
5. Have fun!! I'm so excited to be able to introduce these fantastic products to everyone!
6. And, finally, please, please, please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions! I'm always here to answer questions and love "educating" people about the benefits of our products!!
P.S. Many of the holiday products are great gift ideas for that special teacher or coach - it's something new and different and will surely be appreciated by whoever is the lucky recipient!!
Techno Dumb
I like to think that I'm up with the times. (How's that for an opening old person saying?!)
At 38, I do think I'm still pretty young. Relatively speaking, of course. However, with all of the new gadgets (another OPS) and computers and phones coming out at lightning speed, I will admit that I am ignorant when it comes to matters of technology.
I am a firm believer that my 3 and 5 year olds don't need anything more than the barbie and princess "computers" they have (totally learning oriented). When my nieces and nephew got into the new technology, I was a little taken aback.
This was actually said by me a couple of years ago:
"I can't believe that a 5 year old needs and I-pod! That's ridiculous! I don't see any reason.....what?.....it's an I-PHONE???? Oh Good Lord....."
My mother in law has offered to buy my 5 year old an I-phone for Christmas for "educational purposes". Right. As I try to bring my blood pressure down, and try to be appreciative for the gesture, I can't help but think "what the hell is this world coming to??".
I feel guilty when my kids watch too much tv. There's no way I'd stick them in front of an I-phone. Not now, anyway.
I have a feeling I'm going to be "that parent". You know, the one who is last at getting their kids into what's hot and happening (OPS).
The other day at playschool, my son's EI worker asked if he used the computer, and if so, she would bring in her laptop to give him some "activites" to do. Really????? He's 3. In my mind, 'nuff said.
The only interaction with our computers that our kids have is when we show them a video of something they would enjoy, usually from Youtube. That's it.
Am I doing my kids a disservice by not introducing them to the newest technology out there? Maybe, maybe not. I see kids with cell phones at the age of 7. That isn't going to happen in my house.
But, then again, I've been known to eat my words now and then.
Never say never. Perhaps getting my kids into technnology will actually give me a clue. You know, about I-pods and such.
At 38, I do think I'm still pretty young. Relatively speaking, of course. However, with all of the new gadgets (another OPS) and computers and phones coming out at lightning speed, I will admit that I am ignorant when it comes to matters of technology.
I am a firm believer that my 3 and 5 year olds don't need anything more than the barbie and princess "computers" they have (totally learning oriented). When my nieces and nephew got into the new technology, I was a little taken aback.
This was actually said by me a couple of years ago:
"I can't believe that a 5 year old needs and I-pod! That's ridiculous! I don't see any reason.....what?.....it's an I-PHONE???? Oh Good Lord....."
My mother in law has offered to buy my 5 year old an I-phone for Christmas for "educational purposes". Right. As I try to bring my blood pressure down, and try to be appreciative for the gesture, I can't help but think "what the hell is this world coming to??".
I feel guilty when my kids watch too much tv. There's no way I'd stick them in front of an I-phone. Not now, anyway.
I have a feeling I'm going to be "that parent". You know, the one who is last at getting their kids into what's hot and happening (OPS).
The other day at playschool, my son's EI worker asked if he used the computer, and if so, she would bring in her laptop to give him some "activites" to do. Really????? He's 3. In my mind, 'nuff said.
The only interaction with our computers that our kids have is when we show them a video of something they would enjoy, usually from Youtube. That's it.
Am I doing my kids a disservice by not introducing them to the newest technology out there? Maybe, maybe not. I see kids with cell phones at the age of 7. That isn't going to happen in my house.
But, then again, I've been known to eat my words now and then.
Never say never. Perhaps getting my kids into technnology will actually give me a clue. You know, about I-pods and such.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Recess Was Her Favorite Subject....
And, now....not so much.
While the hubs and I were traipsing off in Vegas last week, having a grand old time, enjoying our 15 years of blissful marriage, our sweet, friendly, innocent, doe-eyed little girl was getting punched on the playground at recess.
Yep. Socked right in the eye. By a little boy. A 5 year old little boy.
Apparently what happened was that she asked him to play and he said no. I'm assuming her feelings were hurt (she just wants to be friends with everyone!), then she asked him again, and then he punched her. This was verified by other kids, so it leaves me to wonder: how does a 5 year old know to punch with a closed fist, and why would he do that to begin with? What has he seen in his life that has taught him that's it okay to punch?
I have sympathy for this boy. I mean, did he see his Dad punch his Mom? Does he have an older sibling that does this to him?
My daughter seems to be doing okay after a few days of not really wanting to be at school, and keeping a sharp eye out for any adult to be close to her, but I'm sure this has changed her thinking about how other kids are. I'm so sad for her that this had to happen during her first few weeks of her school career, but after seeing how all of the other kids are so happy to see her at school every day, I'm sure she'll be just fine.
The school takes a hard stance on bullying, and this boy has been "grounded" from recess for a week, and then he has to be with a supervisor the whole time he's out for another week. While I was picking her up after school on Monday, he came over and apologized (again) to her, and she got very nervous and managed to squeak out an "it's okay, thank you". I thought it was brave for him to come over on his own in front of her Mom to apologize to her. Hopefully this will change his ways, as this isn't the first time they've had an "incident" with him.
It makes me wonder how many parents sit their kids down and talk to them about bullying and about how they treat other children. It makes me think about the "my kid would never do that" mentality and how it happens more than we think.
It's been a good lesson for her, in the way she treats her brother (and I'm sure all siblings have their scraps) and in the way she treats others at school.
Hopefully the rest of the school year goes smoothly, and all we have to deal with is uneaten fruit in the lunchbox at the end of the day!!
While the hubs and I were traipsing off in Vegas last week, having a grand old time, enjoying our 15 years of blissful marriage, our sweet, friendly, innocent, doe-eyed little girl was getting punched on the playground at recess.
Yep. Socked right in the eye. By a little boy. A 5 year old little boy.
Apparently what happened was that she asked him to play and he said no. I'm assuming her feelings were hurt (she just wants to be friends with everyone!), then she asked him again, and then he punched her. This was verified by other kids, so it leaves me to wonder: how does a 5 year old know to punch with a closed fist, and why would he do that to begin with? What has he seen in his life that has taught him that's it okay to punch?
I have sympathy for this boy. I mean, did he see his Dad punch his Mom? Does he have an older sibling that does this to him?
My daughter seems to be doing okay after a few days of not really wanting to be at school, and keeping a sharp eye out for any adult to be close to her, but I'm sure this has changed her thinking about how other kids are. I'm so sad for her that this had to happen during her first few weeks of her school career, but after seeing how all of the other kids are so happy to see her at school every day, I'm sure she'll be just fine.
The school takes a hard stance on bullying, and this boy has been "grounded" from recess for a week, and then he has to be with a supervisor the whole time he's out for another week. While I was picking her up after school on Monday, he came over and apologized (again) to her, and she got very nervous and managed to squeak out an "it's okay, thank you". I thought it was brave for him to come over on his own in front of her Mom to apologize to her. Hopefully this will change his ways, as this isn't the first time they've had an "incident" with him.
It makes me wonder how many parents sit their kids down and talk to them about bullying and about how they treat other children. It makes me think about the "my kid would never do that" mentality and how it happens more than we think.
It's been a good lesson for her, in the way she treats her brother (and I'm sure all siblings have their scraps) and in the way she treats others at school.
Hopefully the rest of the school year goes smoothly, and all we have to deal with is uneaten fruit in the lunchbox at the end of the day!!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Let's Move ON
I just need to get a post up, any post, to move the lip waxing post outta here - I cringe every time I see it! ha!
Vegas was awesome, won some money to help pay for the trip, and had a fantastic anniversary dinner (can't wait to do it again, and this time we're not waiting 15 years!!)
Christmas shopping is upon us and I've been really busy with Arbonne parties, the holiday line is A-mazing - there are going to be a lot of very happy gift recipients this Christmas!! The kids are doing great in their schools, the boy is doing great in speech therapy, and things are just chugging along!
Potty training is another story - this boy is so stubborn, I'm not sure what to do here. I think I'm going to opt for no diaper, no underwear, no pullup - we're going commando (well, he is, not me!) to see if that will motivate him to use the potty. I need to drop everything and have this child live on the potty for the next week. Starting tomorrow (we are home all day tomorrow and Monday is a holiday) I'm dropping the hammer!!
Oh, and no snow yet! On October 6th, that is a huge feat here up north, every day without snow is a great bonus!
Now to go get those leaves off my lawn....
Vegas was awesome, won some money to help pay for the trip, and had a fantastic anniversary dinner (can't wait to do it again, and this time we're not waiting 15 years!!)
Christmas shopping is upon us and I've been really busy with Arbonne parties, the holiday line is A-mazing - there are going to be a lot of very happy gift recipients this Christmas!! The kids are doing great in their schools, the boy is doing great in speech therapy, and things are just chugging along!
Potty training is another story - this boy is so stubborn, I'm not sure what to do here. I think I'm going to opt for no diaper, no underwear, no pullup - we're going commando (well, he is, not me!) to see if that will motivate him to use the potty. I need to drop everything and have this child live on the potty for the next week. Starting tomorrow (we are home all day tomorrow and Monday is a holiday) I'm dropping the hammer!!
Oh, and no snow yet! On October 6th, that is a huge feat here up north, every day without snow is a great bonus!
Now to go get those leaves off my lawn....
Saturday, September 24, 2011
My Lips Are Waxed
I've never thought of myself as being old. I don't have grey hair, I still think of myself as 25 and I got carded yesterday. Yes, that's right - a 38 year old got carded! Waa Hoo!!!
However, I've finally decided to acknowledge a problem I know that I've had for some time. My upper lip was starting to look like the testosterone was taking over a little too much. In asking my sister if it looked like it was darker, she said that it looked fine (bless her heart, she didn't want my wrath). In light of our upcoming trip, I decided to do something about it.
Let me back up a little. The last time we were in Vegas, I was walking through a casino, and 2 drunk guys stumbled by me. One of them said something to me, something that sounded like "nice moustache". I'm sure that's not what he said, he probably said something like "I need cash", but then again, I'm pretty sure he didn't.
So the wheels started turning. You know how when you stare in the mirror at your eyebrows, and pretty soon they are big and black and bushy, and it's all you can see? Well, that's what my upper lip looked like. Couple that to the fact that I'm sure I grew a mini beard when I had my kids (that my hubby made sure I knew about, just in case I couldn't see it myself), I have a complex about facial hair.
So, yesterday I took the bull by the horns. I did an at home wax kit - sorry, not paying $35 to have my brows and 'stache waxed when I can do it myself for $5. I am pretty sure it worked, although it's still a little too pink to tell for sure, but hey, it couldn't be worse, right?
I am coming to the realization that bad things happen as we age. Facial hair, sagging body parts, memory loss....
Now....what was I saying?
However, I've finally decided to acknowledge a problem I know that I've had for some time. My upper lip was starting to look like the testosterone was taking over a little too much. In asking my sister if it looked like it was darker, she said that it looked fine (bless her heart, she didn't want my wrath). In light of our upcoming trip, I decided to do something about it.
Let me back up a little. The last time we were in Vegas, I was walking through a casino, and 2 drunk guys stumbled by me. One of them said something to me, something that sounded like "nice moustache". I'm sure that's not what he said, he probably said something like "I need cash", but then again, I'm pretty sure he didn't.
So the wheels started turning. You know how when you stare in the mirror at your eyebrows, and pretty soon they are big and black and bushy, and it's all you can see? Well, that's what my upper lip looked like. Couple that to the fact that I'm sure I grew a mini beard when I had my kids (that my hubby made sure I knew about, just in case I couldn't see it myself), I have a complex about facial hair.
So, yesterday I took the bull by the horns. I did an at home wax kit - sorry, not paying $35 to have my brows and 'stache waxed when I can do it myself for $5. I am pretty sure it worked, although it's still a little too pink to tell for sure, but hey, it couldn't be worse, right?
I am coming to the realization that bad things happen as we age. Facial hair, sagging body parts, memory loss....
 |
| courtesy Google Images |
Friday, September 23, 2011
My heart melts!
So much has been going on with the big girl starting school, today is show and tell (my bet is there will be at least 78 barbies...) and there are new friendships being made every day. My daughter is, shall we say, a loud, unabashed free spirit. She has the biggest heart and the best intentions but isn't quite in the know about socially acceptable behaviour yet (as I'm sure all kids her age aren't to some extent). She makes her teacher laugh daily, and was called a "silly monkey" by said teacher last week (or so she says - she also has the biggest imagination).
Well, she has found her twin. Yep, there really is another kid out there as, well, out there as Jayda. It is the funniest thing to watch them meet on the playground every morning - with screams and hugs as if they hadn't seen each other in years. That just melts my heart. One of the things we want for our kids is to have wonderful, meaningful relationships with their friends, and I definitely see a long friendship between these two kids. So awesome!
It's only been 2 weeks since school has started...wouldn't that be something if she found her true BFF 2 weeks into kindergarten?
Well, she has found her twin. Yep, there really is another kid out there as, well, out there as Jayda. It is the funniest thing to watch them meet on the playground every morning - with screams and hugs as if they hadn't seen each other in years. That just melts my heart. One of the things we want for our kids is to have wonderful, meaningful relationships with their friends, and I definitely see a long friendship between these two kids. So awesome!
It's only been 2 weeks since school has started...wouldn't that be something if she found her true BFF 2 weeks into kindergarten?
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Letting Go...
I am a type "A" personality. Just ask my husband, who is driven crazy by my 'I want everything done my way' ways. In my defense, I like to think I'm pretty darned organized and even headed about it. Except when we live out of a laundry basket full of unfolded clothes for a few days, but I like to think of it as having my priorities straight.
But I digress...
Anyhow, being this type of person, I also tend to let things get to me, creating a little gnawing feeling in my stomach. I worry about the little things, wanting to do something about them right. now. Last night I had a bit of an epiphany - I vowed that when things start to get to me, I am to immediately do something self-gratifying. Whether that is eating ice cream, folding the aforementioned laundry, going for a walk - whatever gives me a boost at that moment. The trick to this is, when I do one of these things, I have to slowly let go of whatever is bothering me.
And last night, it worked.
I tend to make things complicated, when really, most things are quite simple. Easy to say, hard to remember.
And, I think it makes me easier to live with.
Now excuse me while I go fold my laundry....
But I digress...
Anyhow, being this type of person, I also tend to let things get to me, creating a little gnawing feeling in my stomach. I worry about the little things, wanting to do something about them right. now. Last night I had a bit of an epiphany - I vowed that when things start to get to me, I am to immediately do something self-gratifying. Whether that is eating ice cream, folding the aforementioned laundry, going for a walk - whatever gives me a boost at that moment. The trick to this is, when I do one of these things, I have to slowly let go of whatever is bothering me.
And last night, it worked.
I tend to make things complicated, when really, most things are quite simple. Easy to say, hard to remember.
And, I think it makes me easier to live with.
Now excuse me while I go fold my laundry....
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Nose To The Grindstone!
Well, fall is here and it's time to get back down to it! Jayda has started kindergarten (full days, every day!) and Cash starts playschool in 2 days, so I am putting my nose to the grindstone.
My days are now filled with working my business. I love this business, I believe in the products and love the freedom and flexibility it gives me! Heck, I took the summer off and don't regret it for a second!! Being new to this city, it is providing me with the opportunity to meet new people, and share exciting products that I love!
Previous to moving to the north, I was a contact lens technician and optician. The business I got my roots in is a high end boutique type of store, with awesome quality frames, lenses, everything! I quickly realized that there is a definite benefit to buying for quality, not just for price. I'm not a name brand snob, but I do appreciate high quality products. I think that is why I love this business so much - it's not the same as other businesses - the research and ingredients that go into these products is absolutely incredible - and the proof is in the putting.
If you'd like to check out what I'm so excited about, and working so hard toward being a success in my endeavour, check it out!! The new holiday line is out, and I'm just about jumping out of my skin at how much I love the yumminess of these products!!!
I so appreciate all of my clients, friends and family that are understanding what the fuss is all about here! It truly is an awesome business to "work" for!
FORWARD MARCH!!!
My days are now filled with working my business. I love this business, I believe in the products and love the freedom and flexibility it gives me! Heck, I took the summer off and don't regret it for a second!! Being new to this city, it is providing me with the opportunity to meet new people, and share exciting products that I love!
Previous to moving to the north, I was a contact lens technician and optician. The business I got my roots in is a high end boutique type of store, with awesome quality frames, lenses, everything! I quickly realized that there is a definite benefit to buying for quality, not just for price. I'm not a name brand snob, but I do appreciate high quality products. I think that is why I love this business so much - it's not the same as other businesses - the research and ingredients that go into these products is absolutely incredible - and the proof is in the putting.
If you'd like to check out what I'm so excited about, and working so hard toward being a success in my endeavour, check it out!! The new holiday line is out, and I'm just about jumping out of my skin at how much I love the yumminess of these products!!!
I so appreciate all of my clients, friends and family that are understanding what the fuss is all about here! It truly is an awesome business to "work" for!
FORWARD MARCH!!!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
So Giddy I Could Spit...
Okay, I wouldn't spit ('cause that's just gross), but I am just so darn smitten with all that's been going on lately...
First off, a parental visit from my parents a couple of weeks ago - my kids were thrilled, as was I - my Mom is the cooker, cleaner and all around house lady that gives me a major break from my life while they are here. Needed that break!!! We had such a great visit, and look forward to their next visit (more on that in a bit...)
Secondly, my sister and her other half were here last week....what a great time we had!!!! They are total foodies, so we ate like kings - my thighs will confirm that!! We also had a fantastic time with them, and can't wait for them to come back!
Thirdly (is that a word?) my mother in law is due to fly in tomorrow for 8 days....it should be a really good visit as well, the kids will wonder why no one is coming to visit after she goes home!! We used up all of our visitor cards within one month!
Jayda is starting kindergarten next week - so thrilled for her (and for me! ha). She is so excited! Should be a nice change of pace around here, as I will have more time to take the little man to speech therapy at will and not have the constraints of having to lug 2 kids around everywhere.
My Mom and Dad are coming back at the end of September to watch the kids for a week while Dan and I jet off to Vegas for our 15th anniversary!! Dan doesn't know we are going, I'm hoping to hold off telling him until Mom and Dad are on our doorstep - if you know me, it's been really hard to keep this trap shut, but so far so good!!
And, finally.........Arbonne has launched their holiday line - I'm so flippin' excited - this stuff is awesome!!!!!!!! I promptly placed my order this morning so I can share all that is yummy Arbonne holiday goodness with all of my peeps here - and now I'm just waiting for the mailman to come and deliver the goods!! Check the line out - get some Christmas shopping out of the way now, you'll be glad you did later!!! (Just don't use it all up yourself before you wrap them! ha!) www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Hope you had a great summer everyone!!!
First off, a parental visit from my parents a couple of weeks ago - my kids were thrilled, as was I - my Mom is the cooker, cleaner and all around house lady that gives me a major break from my life while they are here. Needed that break!!! We had such a great visit, and look forward to their next visit (more on that in a bit...)
Secondly, my sister and her other half were here last week....what a great time we had!!!! They are total foodies, so we ate like kings - my thighs will confirm that!! We also had a fantastic time with them, and can't wait for them to come back!
Thirdly (is that a word?) my mother in law is due to fly in tomorrow for 8 days....it should be a really good visit as well, the kids will wonder why no one is coming to visit after she goes home!! We used up all of our visitor cards within one month!
Jayda is starting kindergarten next week - so thrilled for her (and for me! ha). She is so excited! Should be a nice change of pace around here, as I will have more time to take the little man to speech therapy at will and not have the constraints of having to lug 2 kids around everywhere.
My Mom and Dad are coming back at the end of September to watch the kids for a week while Dan and I jet off to Vegas for our 15th anniversary!! Dan doesn't know we are going, I'm hoping to hold off telling him until Mom and Dad are on our doorstep - if you know me, it's been really hard to keep this trap shut, but so far so good!!
And, finally.........Arbonne has launched their holiday line - I'm so flippin' excited - this stuff is awesome!!!!!!!! I promptly placed my order this morning so I can share all that is yummy Arbonne holiday goodness with all of my peeps here - and now I'm just waiting for the mailman to come and deliver the goods!! Check the line out - get some Christmas shopping out of the way now, you'll be glad you did later!!! (Just don't use it all up yourself before you wrap them! ha!) www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Hope you had a great summer everyone!!!
Friday, July 29, 2011
I Want To Give a Shout Out....
As you may or may not know (oh, come on, you all read my blog religiously, don't you?!), our son is having issues with his speech and behaviour (although he's come a very long way in a few short months).
Just about the time that our first speech therapy appointment happened, and some other issues were suggested to us, a sweet gal by the name of Becca started up a blog. Becca is a pediatric speech-language pathologist, who very obviously cares about what she does and the people she works with. Her blog, Child Talk, is an amazing resource for parents who are in the thick of dealing with these and other issues with their kids, or parents who are just entering the scary and uncertain world that faces them and their children.
I just wanted to spread the word about the amazing blog that Becca has started, she welcomes questions through her website and had been more than helpful to me when I sent her a freaked out email in March. She talked me down to just mild hysteria (kidding!).
I see the work and caring that she puts into her blog, so if you yourself can't use the information, but know someone who can, please pass her blog address along!!
Thanks Becca!!!
Just about the time that our first speech therapy appointment happened, and some other issues were suggested to us, a sweet gal by the name of Becca started up a blog. Becca is a pediatric speech-language pathologist, who very obviously cares about what she does and the people she works with. Her blog, Child Talk, is an amazing resource for parents who are in the thick of dealing with these and other issues with their kids, or parents who are just entering the scary and uncertain world that faces them and their children.
I just wanted to spread the word about the amazing blog that Becca has started, she welcomes questions through her website and had been more than helpful to me when I sent her a freaked out email in March. She talked me down to just mild hysteria (kidding!).
I see the work and caring that she puts into her blog, so if you yourself can't use the information, but know someone who can, please pass her blog address along!!
Thanks Becca!!!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
It Starts This Early??
I remember elementary school. I even remember kindergarten to some extent. I remember playing with all of the kids, making new friends and the exciting feeling of being on my own, if even for just a morning every day. I remember forging a new with friendship a girl, someone with whom I would be best friends with for the next 8 years.
I also remember being in grade 4 or 5, having our petty, typical girly spats, being friends with someone one day, and fighting with them the next. I get that kids (especially girls) are like that, and that it's the norm. I also know that kids are cruel, remembering that I was cruel to a kid or two along the way and remembering kids that were bullies to everyone on the playground. I get that all of that is a part of growing up, learning how to treat people, learning how to develop relationships and learning lessons from the way you yourself are treated.
But. My daughter is 4. She is a very personable little girl, not a shy bone in her body. We are new to this city, and when I took them to the park, I figured it might be a good chance to meet some other little girls in our area. When we first got there, there was a girl, probably a year or two older than mine, whom Jayda invited to play. (It's actually pretty cute, she'll walk up to any little strange girl and say, "Hi, my name is Jayda, do you want to play?") They played really well, and then the little girl had to go home.
It was then that another couple of little girls arrived, and Jayda approached them to play. The first little girl (we'll call her Ring Leader) said, "No, I don't know you and haven't seen you before" and then walked away, ignoring Jayda when she introduced herself again. I resisted the urge to do anything about the situation, especially when Jayda's face turned sad and she walked over the bench to sulk for a few minutes. And this wasn't a pouty sulk, this was a hurt sulk.
I get that kids can be mean and discluding, but the kicker here is that RL's Mom was standing right there. Maybe I'm way out of line, or what they call a "helicopter parent" or whatever, but if it were my kid doing that to someone, I would be stepping in and correcting the behaviour. I get that I'm not going to be choosing my kids' friends as they get older, but is there anything wrong with guiding them to try and make the right choices in the way they treat others?
I left there feeling hurt for my daughter and feeling like the other parent dropped the ball on this one. As I was discussing this with my husband after we got home, I lamented that if I ever caught one of my kids treating someone else that way, they would be corrected even as they were doing it.
Or, something like that. But with harsher words.
In the end, I explained to her that even thought that girl left her out, the important thing was that she was friendly with the girls and invited them to play. The important thing is how you treat others, and if they don't treat you nicely back, you go and find someone else who will, ignoring the meanness.
Easier said than done.
This is going to be a long 15 years, probably more so for me than for her.
Now excuse me while I go trim my Mama Bear claws....
I also remember being in grade 4 or 5, having our petty, typical girly spats, being friends with someone one day, and fighting with them the next. I get that kids (especially girls) are like that, and that it's the norm. I also know that kids are cruel, remembering that I was cruel to a kid or two along the way and remembering kids that were bullies to everyone on the playground. I get that all of that is a part of growing up, learning how to treat people, learning how to develop relationships and learning lessons from the way you yourself are treated.
But. My daughter is 4. She is a very personable little girl, not a shy bone in her body. We are new to this city, and when I took them to the park, I figured it might be a good chance to meet some other little girls in our area. When we first got there, there was a girl, probably a year or two older than mine, whom Jayda invited to play. (It's actually pretty cute, she'll walk up to any little strange girl and say, "Hi, my name is Jayda, do you want to play?") They played really well, and then the little girl had to go home.
It was then that another couple of little girls arrived, and Jayda approached them to play. The first little girl (we'll call her Ring Leader) said, "No, I don't know you and haven't seen you before" and then walked away, ignoring Jayda when she introduced herself again. I resisted the urge to do anything about the situation, especially when Jayda's face turned sad and she walked over the bench to sulk for a few minutes. And this wasn't a pouty sulk, this was a hurt sulk.
I get that kids can be mean and discluding, but the kicker here is that RL's Mom was standing right there. Maybe I'm way out of line, or what they call a "helicopter parent" or whatever, but if it were my kid doing that to someone, I would be stepping in and correcting the behaviour. I get that I'm not going to be choosing my kids' friends as they get older, but is there anything wrong with guiding them to try and make the right choices in the way they treat others?
I left there feeling hurt for my daughter and feeling like the other parent dropped the ball on this one. As I was discussing this with my husband after we got home, I lamented that if I ever caught one of my kids treating someone else that way, they would be corrected even as they were doing it.
Or, something like that. But with harsher words.
In the end, I explained to her that even thought that girl left her out, the important thing was that she was friendly with the girls and invited them to play. The important thing is how you treat others, and if they don't treat you nicely back, you go and find someone else who will, ignoring the meanness.
Easier said than done.
This is going to be a long 15 years, probably more so for me than for her.
Now excuse me while I go trim my Mama Bear claws....
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Royally Amazing!
So, we met Will and Kate today. No. Really. We met Will and Kate. The famous ones. The royal ones.
I still really can't believe it.
And, I can't believe how much of a royal bandwaggoner I've become. Just a couple of days ago, I was lamenting to my husband how incredibly unfair it was that 2 people like that have it totally made in the shade, while I have sudsy dishwater dripping off of my elbows.
You see, they are visiting our city (the one we just moved to 3 weeks ago - good timing, huh?!). My hubby is on security detail for their royal highnesses. Long days, a lot of heat and mosquitoes made him a little cranky about it. We talked about how, for no reason other than bloodline and some sexy lingerie* did these two folks fall into "one of the richest and most famous and most beautiful therefore most happy" people in the world.
*
courtesy of google images
No envy here. None. Just dishpan hands.
Anyway, we both were thinking that it really wasn't that big of a deal that they were here, and I didn't have even an inkling to go see them (I'm not a crowd person, especially with 2 crabby kids).
Hubby happens to text this morning, saying that they are checking out of the hotel (I'm pretty sure this may or may not have been privileged information) and to get our butts down there in a very short amount of time. I begin to daydream about Kate complimenting me on my pj bottoms, but flinching at the hole in my t shirt....
We end up getting the heck down there (I'm pretty sure if I'd been given more time to think about it, we wouldn't have gone - I was on autopilot) and wait. There I stand with 2 kids - one looking pretty good, like the little princess she is (except she put her WINTER princess boots on with her dress - awesome), and the other kid with bedhead (this was the only day he's slept in for a year), a football shirt and a rip in the knee of his jeans (I swear I didn't know about the rip - I think it happened when he fell trying to pick dandelions on the way to see their royalnesses - don't ask about the stupid weeds...).
And, the kids start to get antsy. As I look around at the other 5 or 6 kids, I realize it may have been a good idea to bring flowers, or wash my kids' faces or even run a comb through. Ah well, we'll never see them again, and maybe if we look that bad, they'll consider making a donation towards our cause. Or not.
Anyway, they finally come out and, well, wow. What a stunning couple. And, she's gorgeous (although my husband says I'm hotter - atta boy). And the kids met them. After shaking William's hand, my son proceeded to shake the hands of the security guys, prompting William, with a laugh, to say he was "curious". (what does that mean in British speak?) My daughter was taken with Kate and could only squeak out a "hi".
The first picture is my son shaking William's hand, and the second picture is my daughter (in the middle with the pink and green dress) staring in awe at Kate. The pair was very gracious and took time to talk to the kids, I was impressed!
So, now I guess I am a fan. Not a die hard, royal following fan, just a person who has a new found respect for the future King and Queen of England.
Pretty cool day.
I still really can't believe it.
And, I can't believe how much of a royal bandwaggoner I've become. Just a couple of days ago, I was lamenting to my husband how incredibly unfair it was that 2 people like that have it totally made in the shade, while I have sudsy dishwater dripping off of my elbows.
You see, they are visiting our city (the one we just moved to 3 weeks ago - good timing, huh?!). My hubby is on security detail for their royal highnesses. Long days, a lot of heat and mosquitoes made him a little cranky about it. We talked about how, for no reason other than bloodline and some sexy lingerie* did these two folks fall into "one of the richest and most famous and most beautiful therefore most happy" people in the world.
*
No envy here. None. Just dishpan hands.
Anyway, we both were thinking that it really wasn't that big of a deal that they were here, and I didn't have even an inkling to go see them (I'm not a crowd person, especially with 2 crabby kids).
Hubby happens to text this morning, saying that they are checking out of the hotel (I'm pretty sure this may or may not have been privileged information) and to get our butts down there in a very short amount of time. I begin to daydream about Kate complimenting me on my pj bottoms, but flinching at the hole in my t shirt....
We end up getting the heck down there (I'm pretty sure if I'd been given more time to think about it, we wouldn't have gone - I was on autopilot) and wait. There I stand with 2 kids - one looking pretty good, like the little princess she is (except she put her WINTER princess boots on with her dress - awesome), and the other kid with bedhead (this was the only day he's slept in for a year), a football shirt and a rip in the knee of his jeans (I swear I didn't know about the rip - I think it happened when he fell trying to pick dandelions on the way to see their royalnesses - don't ask about the stupid weeds...).
And, the kids start to get antsy. As I look around at the other 5 or 6 kids, I realize it may have been a good idea to bring flowers, or wash my kids' faces or even run a comb through. Ah well, we'll never see them again, and maybe if we look that bad, they'll consider making a donation towards our cause. Or not.
Anyway, they finally come out and, well, wow. What a stunning couple. And, she's gorgeous (although my husband says I'm hotter - atta boy). And the kids met them. After shaking William's hand, my son proceeded to shake the hands of the security guys, prompting William, with a laugh, to say he was "curious". (what does that mean in British speak?) My daughter was taken with Kate and could only squeak out a "hi".
The first picture is my son shaking William's hand, and the second picture is my daughter (in the middle with the pink and green dress) staring in awe at Kate. The pair was very gracious and took time to talk to the kids, I was impressed!
So, now I guess I am a fan. Not a die hard, royal following fan, just a person who has a new found respect for the future King and Queen of England.
Pretty cool day.
Monday, July 4, 2011
The Rain Ain't Got Nothin' On This!!!
It's been raining here all day, and I wanna go outside and play!!!! My kids are wrangy, I'm antsy to do something outdoorsy, and I'm hoping that the sun decides to come out to play tomorrow!
So, in the absence of something fun to do outside, I'm planning something fun for the summer - my sister has agreed to host an online Arbonne party - one that will include girlfriends from around the country and beyond - the only stipulation to you taking part is that you need to have glass of wine in hand (or the beverage of your choice), some me time at the computer, and have some fun browsing my website of fantastic Arbonne product! We are launching the party in the next couple of days, but I want to let you know that we will be including a prize to one or more people that place orders. If you would like to place an order, please do so by sending me an email - I'll be in contact with you to get your information, and place all of the orders together under this party.
I'd love to see people from everywhere take part, so kick back, relax and enjoy perusing the yumminess (is that a word??) that is Arbonne!! (My fav these days is the Seasource Detox Spa - heavenly!!!!)
Visit my website at www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca, let me know when you've had a look and I'll add you to our list of "party people"!! If you have ANY questions about the products or would like some recommendations, please email me at clairedonison@live.ca - I loooooove to hear from you all!!!
So, in the absence of something fun to do outside, I'm planning something fun for the summer - my sister has agreed to host an online Arbonne party - one that will include girlfriends from around the country and beyond - the only stipulation to you taking part is that you need to have glass of wine in hand (or the beverage of your choice), some me time at the computer, and have some fun browsing my website of fantastic Arbonne product! We are launching the party in the next couple of days, but I want to let you know that we will be including a prize to one or more people that place orders. If you would like to place an order, please do so by sending me an email - I'll be in contact with you to get your information, and place all of the orders together under this party.
I'd love to see people from everywhere take part, so kick back, relax and enjoy perusing the yumminess (is that a word??) that is Arbonne!! (My fav these days is the Seasource Detox Spa - heavenly!!!!)
Visit my website at www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca, let me know when you've had a look and I'll add you to our list of "party people"!! If you have ANY questions about the products or would like some recommendations, please email me at clairedonison@live.ca - I loooooove to hear from you all!!!
Friday, July 1, 2011
I AM CANADIAN!!!
Happy Canada Day everyone!! And yes, even if you're not Canadian, we are so darn hospitable and welcoming (and apparently not self centered in the least) , that we'll let you celebrate right along with us!!!
So, in honor of the birthday of this awesome country, here is a list of why I love Canada:
10. We drink Vico, not chocolate milk (maybe just one for the prairies)
9. We wear bunny hugs, not hoodies (pretty sure another one for the prairies)
8. We can drive for miles and miles without seeing a town or city.
7. We can step out in -40 C and declare that it's "refreshing".
6. We do say "eh" and are proud of being able to be recognized right away as a Canadian because of it.
5. Tim Horton's. Enough said.
4. Hockey. And, the CFL - the best football league in the world - heck for that matter, the Riders aren't only the pride of Saskatchewan, they are the pride of the whole darn country!!
3. Proudly being able to wear my flag in foreign countries.
2. We have 4 distinct seasons, and they all show themselves with a vengeance.
1. There is so much patriotic love for our country, sometimes just hearing a crowd sing our national anthem brings tears to my eyes.
So, Happy Canada Day my friends, and to our friends to the south, Happy Independence Day on Monday, have a wonderful, country-loving weekend!!!
So, in honor of the birthday of this awesome country, here is a list of why I love Canada:
10. We drink Vico, not chocolate milk (maybe just one for the prairies)
9. We wear bunny hugs, not hoodies (pretty sure another one for the prairies)
8. We can drive for miles and miles without seeing a town or city.
7. We can step out in -40 C and declare that it's "refreshing".
6. We do say "eh" and are proud of being able to be recognized right away as a Canadian because of it.
5. Tim Horton's. Enough said.
4. Hockey. And, the CFL - the best football league in the world - heck for that matter, the Riders aren't only the pride of Saskatchewan, they are the pride of the whole darn country!!
3. Proudly being able to wear my flag in foreign countries.
2. We have 4 distinct seasons, and they all show themselves with a vengeance.
1. There is so much patriotic love for our country, sometimes just hearing a crowd sing our national anthem brings tears to my eyes.
So, Happy Canada Day my friends, and to our friends to the south, Happy Independence Day on Monday, have a wonderful, country-loving weekend!!!
Monday, June 27, 2011
My Grief
Hello, I'm back from the move. Let's start off by saying that I'm so incredibly thankful for the house we are able to live in, I've been driven by the alternative and I almost cried for the people that have to live there. As I told my husband, "you're lucky, because about this time I'd be one miserable bitch". Enough said. So, in a nutshell, things are great, the move went relatively smoothly, and we are pretty much unpacked and settled.
Something has been really weighing on my mind lately. I'm usually a glass is 3/4 full kind of girl. I find that without thinking, I'm always making a positive comment in light of a shitty situation. In fact, when our couch didn't arrive with the movers (yes, they lost a damn COUCH), my Mom laughed at me when I said, "well, at least we'll have more room in the living room for the kids to play". Yeah, that's usually the kind of girl I am.
The downside to this trait (it was hard to find a downside...get it? hardy har) is that I think - and I'm no shrink - but I think that I may be repressing feelings. No, I don't have repressed feelings about my missing couch (which, by the way, will be here in a few days). I think I hold things in and try to ignore the negative so much , that when the straw is breaking the camel's back, I lose it completely.
I'm afraid that this might happen in our current situation. Because my 3 year is severely speech delayed, and he needs major therapy, my husband and I are both concerned, obviously. But on top of that, he has some strange...um...mannerisms. I wouldn't exactly call them totally weird and strange all of the time, but he is definitely a different duck. He bops along to the beat in his own head sometimes and seems to be in his own little world as well sometimes. I do see some tendencies that professionals would love to label (I refuse to let him be labelled - we work on solutions, not labels), but I'm having a hard time admitting it, especially to my husband. My husband is overly critical, not of my son, but of his behaviours, and doesn't want him to be different. He doesn't want him to be teased, to be slower than the other kids, he doesn't want him to be an outcast.
I totally get that. But every time he starts getting worked up over it, I really try and downplay it. 'Maybe he'll grow out of his immaturity, maybe he'll start talking really soon, really well, for sure the other kids will love him - look at him - he's the most adorable kid ever made'....that kind of thing. When my husband is overreacting, I'm under reacting. But I do see things about our son that makes him a little different from other kids. I don't want to admit it. Maybe it will go away. Maybe once he gets to preschool, he'll start to act like the other kids and not have everyone stare at him.
He is the happiest kid I know. His eyes light up, he loves singing and dancing, he can actually tell me what numbers are what on a page (numbers his almost 5 year old sister doesn't know). He's really smart, and I see that about him. But I fear there really is something else there. I don't know what it is, but he goes for his first speech therapy appointment in our new city next week, and I'm excited and terrified at the same time. I don't want to hear what I don't want to hear.
Maybe I'm not repressing feelings, maybe I'm just denying them all together. I refuse to wallow in this, this kid is a terrific kid, and we'll come out on top of this. It's just scarier than hell to go through.
Something has been really weighing on my mind lately. I'm usually a glass is 3/4 full kind of girl. I find that without thinking, I'm always making a positive comment in light of a shitty situation. In fact, when our couch didn't arrive with the movers (yes, they lost a damn COUCH), my Mom laughed at me when I said, "well, at least we'll have more room in the living room for the kids to play". Yeah, that's usually the kind of girl I am.
The downside to this trait (it was hard to find a downside...get it? hardy har) is that I think - and I'm no shrink - but I think that I may be repressing feelings. No, I don't have repressed feelings about my missing couch (which, by the way, will be here in a few days). I think I hold things in and try to ignore the negative so much , that when the straw is breaking the camel's back, I lose it completely.
I'm afraid that this might happen in our current situation. Because my 3 year is severely speech delayed, and he needs major therapy, my husband and I are both concerned, obviously. But on top of that, he has some strange...um...mannerisms. I wouldn't exactly call them totally weird and strange all of the time, but he is definitely a different duck. He bops along to the beat in his own head sometimes and seems to be in his own little world as well sometimes. I do see some tendencies that professionals would love to label (I refuse to let him be labelled - we work on solutions, not labels), but I'm having a hard time admitting it, especially to my husband. My husband is overly critical, not of my son, but of his behaviours, and doesn't want him to be different. He doesn't want him to be teased, to be slower than the other kids, he doesn't want him to be an outcast.
I totally get that. But every time he starts getting worked up over it, I really try and downplay it. 'Maybe he'll grow out of his immaturity, maybe he'll start talking really soon, really well, for sure the other kids will love him - look at him - he's the most adorable kid ever made'....that kind of thing. When my husband is overreacting, I'm under reacting. But I do see things about our son that makes him a little different from other kids. I don't want to admit it. Maybe it will go away. Maybe once he gets to preschool, he'll start to act like the other kids and not have everyone stare at him.
He is the happiest kid I know. His eyes light up, he loves singing and dancing, he can actually tell me what numbers are what on a page (numbers his almost 5 year old sister doesn't know). He's really smart, and I see that about him. But I fear there really is something else there. I don't know what it is, but he goes for his first speech therapy appointment in our new city next week, and I'm excited and terrified at the same time. I don't want to hear what I don't want to hear.
Maybe I'm not repressing feelings, maybe I'm just denying them all together. I refuse to wallow in this, this kid is a terrific kid, and we'll come out on top of this. It's just scarier than hell to go through.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Top 10 of The Week
So here are the top 10 biggies of the week (it was a pretty slow week, so hopefully I can come up with 10 - maybe 5 good, 5 bad....we'll have to see...)
Ahem*
10. Snow in June. That's all I'll say about that.
9. This daylight-until-one-in-the-morning thing is really screwing with my clock. It sucks when you're sitting there watching tv at night, and realize it's 1 am, and you aren't even tired yet. And it's still bright out.
8. There is a vole living under my shed. So thankful that I didn't meet him until a week before we move.
7. The guy that was appointed to us to help us with our move through my husband's work is a total moron. Ummm, return a call much???
6. I'm starting to realize I'll miss living here, but mostly miss the people. We have been pretty much shut in for the last 2 years (except for summer, which lasts 4 months out of the year - the rest is winter - only 2 seasons) and I so won't miss that!
5. We sold our vehicle, so we don't have to pay $1200 to barge it to our new post (there are no roads to drive out of here in the summer)
4. I'm eating licorice nibs as I type this. Yum.
3. My 4 year old requested Gwen Stefani videos before bed tonight. With a side of Katy Perry. 4 years old. Awesome.
2. We're having take out Chinese tomorrow night. Not a big deal, right? For me it is. A. I don't have to cook. B. There is one place to order out from here (actually there is 2 but I don't feel like ordering food poisoning, so I'll pass on the second). C. I cook every. single. night. therefore, refer back to A.
1. The most awesome-est thing happened today!!! Okay - backstory - we are moving to a place where the cost of living should be illegal, and houses are in the $stupid range. So, we have decided we need to pick a rental place out of the choices that hubby's work provides. There are very few houses on that list, and a couple weeks ago, we got a call that we got one of these houses. HOLY CRAP!!!! That was so lucky....until they called and said they made a mistake, it had already been promised to someone else.
So, back to plan A, moving into a row house, with no backyard for the kids, no room for any of our stuff, blah, blah, blah. When asked what the chances of another house coming up were, we were told to not get our hopes up. So, we sulked for a few days, and I came to the conclusion that we would be happy no matter where we were living, and maybe something better would come up eventually.
Still with me? So, hubs is in the new city today on our house hunting trip, and he calls them this morning to make a time to meet them to look at row housing. Well. He is informed that a house came up yesterday and our names are on it!!!! I'm so damn pumped!!! If it were just me and he, it wouldn't matter, but damn it - I want a yard for the kids - I don't want to deprive them of anything.
So, with that chills-down-your-spine-hair-stand-up-on-your-arms story, I'll just leave you with....
Have a fantastic weekend friends!!
Ahem*
10. Snow in June. That's all I'll say about that.
9. This daylight-until-one-in-the-morning thing is really screwing with my clock. It sucks when you're sitting there watching tv at night, and realize it's 1 am, and you aren't even tired yet. And it's still bright out.
8. There is a vole living under my shed. So thankful that I didn't meet him until a week before we move.
7. The guy that was appointed to us to help us with our move through my husband's work is a total moron. Ummm, return a call much???
6. I'm starting to realize I'll miss living here, but mostly miss the people. We have been pretty much shut in for the last 2 years (except for summer, which lasts 4 months out of the year - the rest is winter - only 2 seasons) and I so won't miss that!
5. We sold our vehicle, so we don't have to pay $1200 to barge it to our new post (there are no roads to drive out of here in the summer)
4. I'm eating licorice nibs as I type this. Yum.
3. My 4 year old requested Gwen Stefani videos before bed tonight. With a side of Katy Perry. 4 years old. Awesome.
2. We're having take out Chinese tomorrow night. Not a big deal, right? For me it is. A. I don't have to cook. B. There is one place to order out from here (actually there is 2 but I don't feel like ordering food poisoning, so I'll pass on the second). C. I cook every. single. night. therefore, refer back to A.
1. The most awesome-est thing happened today!!! Okay - backstory - we are moving to a place where the cost of living should be illegal, and houses are in the $stupid range. So, we have decided we need to pick a rental place out of the choices that hubby's work provides. There are very few houses on that list, and a couple weeks ago, we got a call that we got one of these houses. HOLY CRAP!!!! That was so lucky....until they called and said they made a mistake, it had already been promised to someone else.
So, back to plan A, moving into a row house, with no backyard for the kids, no room for any of our stuff, blah, blah, blah. When asked what the chances of another house coming up were, we were told to not get our hopes up. So, we sulked for a few days, and I came to the conclusion that we would be happy no matter where we were living, and maybe something better would come up eventually.
Still with me? So, hubs is in the new city today on our house hunting trip, and he calls them this morning to make a time to meet them to look at row housing. Well. He is informed that a house came up yesterday and our names are on it!!!! I'm so damn pumped!!! If it were just me and he, it wouldn't matter, but damn it - I want a yard for the kids - I don't want to deprive them of anything.
So, with that chills-down-your-spine-hair-stand-up-on-your-arms story, I'll just leave you with....
Have a fantastic weekend friends!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Check It Out!!!!
I am so very excited tonight!!! A pretty terrific friend of mine has agree to do a product review for me. And.....I'm doing a giveaway through her blog. I'm not going to go into specifics because she pretty much has all of the bases covered....
So....what the heck are you waiting for??? Get on over there!!!!!
So....what the heck are you waiting for??? Get on over there!!!!!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Things I Know About Today
It's Sunday (Sunday, gotta get down on Sunday). Hubby's day off. The weather is rockin' it out here, so I see some sort of fatigue-inducing fresh air activities for the kids. As I sit here with my coffee, I'm thinking about what's been going on with us lately. We were told on Thursday that there was a house available for us to take when we move, and Friday it was given to someone else. Major bummer. But, I just keep telling myself that it will all work out in the end, and it doesn't matter where we live, as long as we're happy (I'm really trying to convince myself that living in small row housing is just as good as a nice big house with an attached garage). Anyhow, I've turned my thoughts to what I know for sure (being type A, I like to have certainties, I don't do well with sitting back and going with the flow). Here is what I know for sure:
- I didn't get my laundry folded last night because I was engrossed (yet again) in the first Sex In The City movie, just priming myself for part 2, which I haven't seen yet. I know, I'm still trying to get into 2010.
- I have waffle batter sitting in my fridge waiting to be cooked for breakfast. Love these waffles! They are made with yeast, and I let the batter sit overnight, and well, they are divine!!!
- The weather has been awesome! Three days before we got home from holidays, there was a major snowstorm here, and I thought we'd still be shovelling out, but Mother Nature (thankyouverymuch) decided to change her mind on that and melt it all herself.
- My daughter is sporting a huge black eye from the playground. Monkey bar - 1, sweet little girl - 0.
- I'm still so excited about my new business, and have some exciting news coming up about that, so stay tuned!!
- I am stalling on actively trying to potty train my son, am I lazy or is he just not ready? I think I'm lazy. He's 3. In my defense, I am offering smarties and pee treats to him, he is just really stubborn (too bad he's so much like his Dad! ha)
- I wasn't taken away in the Rapture everyone has been talking about, which kind of worries me. I heard (correct me if I'm wrong) that all of the good Christians will be taken to heaven on May 21st, and the rest will be taken to hell 5 months later. I'm thinking this means I didn't make the cut. A little worriesome.
- My kids are awesome. That is all.
Have a great day, hoping your weather is as great as ours!
- I didn't get my laundry folded last night because I was engrossed (yet again) in the first Sex In The City movie, just priming myself for part 2, which I haven't seen yet. I know, I'm still trying to get into 2010.
- I have waffle batter sitting in my fridge waiting to be cooked for breakfast. Love these waffles! They are made with yeast, and I let the batter sit overnight, and well, they are divine!!!
- The weather has been awesome! Three days before we got home from holidays, there was a major snowstorm here, and I thought we'd still be shovelling out, but Mother Nature (thankyouverymuch) decided to change her mind on that and melt it all herself.
- My daughter is sporting a huge black eye from the playground. Monkey bar - 1, sweet little girl - 0.
- I'm still so excited about my new business, and have some exciting news coming up about that, so stay tuned!!
- I am stalling on actively trying to potty train my son, am I lazy or is he just not ready? I think I'm lazy. He's 3. In my defense, I am offering smarties and pee treats to him, he is just really stubborn (too bad he's so much like his Dad! ha)
- I wasn't taken away in the Rapture everyone has been talking about, which kind of worries me. I heard (correct me if I'm wrong) that all of the good Christians will be taken to heaven on May 21st, and the rest will be taken to hell 5 months later. I'm thinking this means I didn't make the cut. A little worriesome.
- My kids are awesome. That is all.
Have a great day, hoping your weather is as great as ours!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
The Chaos That Surrounds Me
In my life, I have found a few certainties, some of which are:
- if one kid sleeps through the night, the other won't
- when you drop a piece of toast on the floor, it will always fall peanut butter side down
- just when you start thinking life is as it should be, a curve ball (or two or three) get thrown at you
Don't get me wrong, my life is pretty damn good, I can't complain. But, I will - just a little.
I can now make light of this (a little bit), because I'm a couple months removed from the initial kick in the crotch.
Let me take you back to last July. (For the record, this may get a little long). I mentioned to the nurse at our health center that I had concerns about our son not talking. He was 28 months at the time. I was of the opinion that he would just wake up one day and decide to talk (as every story I ever heard from anyone I've talked to about this has gone - to that I say ppptttthhhhhhh). Fast forward to March when we finally get an appointment with a speech therapist.
This gal was fairly young, and new to her job - but I wasn't holding that against her. Yet. Our appointment was 1/2 hour long, and 25 minutes of the appointment consisted of her observing him and asking me questions. She spent a few minutes on seeing what he could say, if he could identify pictures, etc. After our "appointment", she tells me that she is concerned that he is on the autism spectrum. And, several times she told me "I know this is very hard to hear right now". Really? Maybe you should reserve judgement until someone qualified looks at him. (sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself...)
I'm frozen.
Before I freak out on her (which, let's face it, any parent in denial would do) I readily agree to a referral to a pediatrician and occupational therapist. Now, where we live, appointments don't come quickly (see: July to March above). So. I go home, and inform my husband of what just went down. We both proceed to take turns in causing more panic in the other, all the while focusing on nothing else but what weird behaviour our son is exhibiting at any given moment. (When did he start doing that? Is that normal? What the hell does that mean?)
I think it was a full day and a half before I stopped crying, that time full of thoughts about what his future would be like, and how I was going to beat the crap out of any kid that dared to bully my sweet, sweet boy, because clearly, the therapist had just given him a death sentence.
Enough of that crap. Luckily, the kids and I were flying "home" for a visit, where there is a wider variety of care for cases like his. I get that he has a severe speech delay, and I wanted another opinion on that, seeing as how the last gal told me to "just keep doing what you're doing with him". Clearly that was working, lady.
I managed to contact a lady who not only is an occupational therapist, but also owns another company with a speech language pathologist. (Not sure what I did to deserve that shiny gem, but it lifted about 1000 lbs. off of me). She heard my story and told me that they would work around us and see us whenever we could get there. I love this woman. Love.
I took him for an assessment with each of them, and after all was said and done, he does have a severe speech issue, as well as some immaturity/behavioural issues, which could be attributed to the lack of speech. Oh, and no autism. Surprise surprise. Not a word you want to be throwing around to parents when clearly it's not autism at all. But, I digress.
We are getting together a clear plan of what we need to be doing for him, and I feel a lot better about the whole thing. Yes, it would be easier if he just talked and acted like other kids, but on the other hand, he is healthy, alive and happy (and oh so silly!!).
I always try to see the lessons in things, and the big one here is how much compassion I've gained for parents who have autistic children (or any special needs children for that matter). These kids are so awesome, but I caught a glimpse into the unbearable heartache these parents feel. To envision your child's future as grim, as I have for a brief moment, is the biggest hurt I've ever felt. I pray to never feel it again, yet I know that there are so many parents who live it every day.
To put the cherry on the top, we found out we are moving by June 10th (thankfully to a larger center where speech therapy is readily available). I hate moving. But, that's for another post.
For now, we are teaching and praising new words, enjoying every little milestone and just hoping for the best.
- if one kid sleeps through the night, the other won't
- when you drop a piece of toast on the floor, it will always fall peanut butter side down
- just when you start thinking life is as it should be, a curve ball (or two or three) get thrown at you
Don't get me wrong, my life is pretty damn good, I can't complain. But, I will - just a little.
I can now make light of this (a little bit), because I'm a couple months removed from the initial kick in the crotch.
Let me take you back to last July. (For the record, this may get a little long). I mentioned to the nurse at our health center that I had concerns about our son not talking. He was 28 months at the time. I was of the opinion that he would just wake up one day and decide to talk (as every story I ever heard from anyone I've talked to about this has gone - to that I say ppptttthhhhhhh). Fast forward to March when we finally get an appointment with a speech therapist.
This gal was fairly young, and new to her job - but I wasn't holding that against her. Yet. Our appointment was 1/2 hour long, and 25 minutes of the appointment consisted of her observing him and asking me questions. She spent a few minutes on seeing what he could say, if he could identify pictures, etc. After our "appointment", she tells me that she is concerned that he is on the autism spectrum. And, several times she told me "I know this is very hard to hear right now". Really? Maybe you should reserve judgement until someone qualified looks at him. (sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself...)
I'm frozen.
Before I freak out on her (which, let's face it, any parent in denial would do) I readily agree to a referral to a pediatrician and occupational therapist. Now, where we live, appointments don't come quickly (see: July to March above). So. I go home, and inform my husband of what just went down. We both proceed to take turns in causing more panic in the other, all the while focusing on nothing else but what weird behaviour our son is exhibiting at any given moment. (When did he start doing that? Is that normal? What the hell does that mean?)
I think it was a full day and a half before I stopped crying, that time full of thoughts about what his future would be like, and how I was going to beat the crap out of any kid that dared to bully my sweet, sweet boy, because clearly, the therapist had just given him a death sentence.
Enough of that crap. Luckily, the kids and I were flying "home" for a visit, where there is a wider variety of care for cases like his. I get that he has a severe speech delay, and I wanted another opinion on that, seeing as how the last gal told me to "just keep doing what you're doing with him". Clearly that was working, lady.
I managed to contact a lady who not only is an occupational therapist, but also owns another company with a speech language pathologist. (Not sure what I did to deserve that shiny gem, but it lifted about 1000 lbs. off of me). She heard my story and told me that they would work around us and see us whenever we could get there. I love this woman. Love.
I took him for an assessment with each of them, and after all was said and done, he does have a severe speech issue, as well as some immaturity/behavioural issues, which could be attributed to the lack of speech. Oh, and no autism. Surprise surprise. Not a word you want to be throwing around to parents when clearly it's not autism at all. But, I digress.
We are getting together a clear plan of what we need to be doing for him, and I feel a lot better about the whole thing. Yes, it would be easier if he just talked and acted like other kids, but on the other hand, he is healthy, alive and happy (and oh so silly!!).
I always try to see the lessons in things, and the big one here is how much compassion I've gained for parents who have autistic children (or any special needs children for that matter). These kids are so awesome, but I caught a glimpse into the unbearable heartache these parents feel. To envision your child's future as grim, as I have for a brief moment, is the biggest hurt I've ever felt. I pray to never feel it again, yet I know that there are so many parents who live it every day.
To put the cherry on the top, we found out we are moving by June 10th (thankfully to a larger center where speech therapy is readily available). I hate moving. But, that's for another post.
For now, we are teaching and praising new words, enjoying every little milestone and just hoping for the best.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
I Thought We Came Here To Get Away From This...
Mission accomplished! We flew home last Friday, successfully I might add (as in: no one was injured, permanently physically or emotionally damaged, or thrown out of any airport or airplane). With that being done, I said that I probably won't travel with the kids by myself again next time (which I believe is what I say every time we arrive back home), so we'll have to see.
At this point, please remind me of these words 8 or so months down the road when it's time to do this all over again. Please.
Anyhow, we made it home to my inlaw's city, and the following day we travelled to my home town 2 1/2 hours away. Where I live now, there really is no driving. Unless you count driving the 24 seconds to the store, post office and bank.
Yes, I drive. Don't judge.
The drive to my hometown was awesome, and even though spring around here entails having to look at brown, dead and muddy land everywhere, I loved being able to see the ground! I haven't seen the actual ground since last fall, and I missed it. Spring was just trying to burst out of the ground here and I loved the moist/muddy/fresh smells that were filling the air.
Until.
Last night, we got about 3 inches of snow. Seriously???? We just left the extremely far north to get away from this (well, and to see our families). We still have 10 foot snow banks in our front yard, and we have to go through this all over again?
Time to get the shovel out. Again. But, at least my hubby arrived safely last night before all hell broke loose weather wise. For that I can be thankful.
It's been a long week with appointments, and a very trying one. Our 3 year old son has some developmental issues (which I'll blog about soon), and to be truthful, I'm ready to just forget about having to make decisions for the next little while. On top of that, we just found out that we're moving in June. We get back from holidays May 16th, and we're moving in June. Yep.
Lots on my mind, but I just keep telling myself that everything works out in it's own time. It just has a way of doing that.
So, for now, I'll shovel, and not worry about the rest.
At this point, please remind me of these words 8 or so months down the road when it's time to do this all over again. Please.
Anyhow, we made it home to my inlaw's city, and the following day we travelled to my home town 2 1/2 hours away. Where I live now, there really is no driving. Unless you count driving the 24 seconds to the store, post office and bank.
Yes, I drive. Don't judge.
The drive to my hometown was awesome, and even though spring around here entails having to look at brown, dead and muddy land everywhere, I loved being able to see the ground! I haven't seen the actual ground since last fall, and I missed it. Spring was just trying to burst out of the ground here and I loved the moist/muddy/fresh smells that were filling the air.
Until.
Last night, we got about 3 inches of snow. Seriously???? We just left the extremely far north to get away from this (well, and to see our families). We still have 10 foot snow banks in our front yard, and we have to go through this all over again?
Time to get the shovel out. Again. But, at least my hubby arrived safely last night before all hell broke loose weather wise. For that I can be thankful.
It's been a long week with appointments, and a very trying one. Our 3 year old son has some developmental issues (which I'll blog about soon), and to be truthful, I'm ready to just forget about having to make decisions for the next little while. On top of that, we just found out that we're moving in June. We get back from holidays May 16th, and we're moving in June. Yep.
Lots on my mind, but I just keep telling myself that everything works out in it's own time. It just has a way of doing that.
So, for now, I'll shovel, and not worry about the rest.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Outta Here Baby!!
Well, I'm off to the great warm south today with the kids in tow! (If you never hear from me again, they got the best of me...)
I'm going to be checking in and even *gasp* posting about our holiday, so don't think I've disappeared from the face of the earth....
If you are wanting information on Arbonne, or needing to order or need to get a hold of me, I'm taking my laptop with me, and will be checking in every day, so send me a line!
clairedonison@live.ca
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Have a great weekend!! :)
I'm going to be checking in and even *gasp* posting about our holiday, so don't think I've disappeared from the face of the earth....
If you are wanting information on Arbonne, or needing to order or need to get a hold of me, I'm taking my laptop with me, and will be checking in every day, so send me a line!
clairedonison@live.ca
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Have a great weekend!! :)
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
And Now the Good Stuff....
Okay, how much of a downer was I last night? Man, I can barely stand to listen to myself whine....
Anyhoosey, here is a list of awesome things going on right now....
- I get to fly home with the kids on Friday (it's Friday, Friday...haven't heard the song??? Youtube it! Don't hate me!).
- I get to see my Mom and Dad and sister on Saturday - so happy to be going home to see them! Not that I'm not happy to see my inlaws, I just have a better time there when my hubby is with us - both of them work and it's not quite as labor intensive with the kids when he's there.
- I do have the most awesome kids - my son is a laugh a minute, and I think my daughter is going to be the most eccentric little gal around - she loves weird music and clothes - remind me of this when she goes goth...
- It's really, really trying to be spring out there - I'll give Mother Nature a break, as we live so far north, but she's got a month to get rid of the snow and start shining that hot sun!
- My Arbonne business is taking off, and I have the best clients a girl can ask for. I'm so appreciative of all of the positive feedback I'm getting, it kind of makes my heart glow! :)
- My house is a mess, but I don't care right now! I'm hanging out with my girl watching Uncle Buck - great for some laughs!
Have a great day! :)
Anyhoosey, here is a list of awesome things going on right now....
- I get to fly home with the kids on Friday (it's Friday, Friday...haven't heard the song??? Youtube it! Don't hate me!).
- I get to see my Mom and Dad and sister on Saturday - so happy to be going home to see them! Not that I'm not happy to see my inlaws, I just have a better time there when my hubby is with us - both of them work and it's not quite as labor intensive with the kids when he's there.
- I do have the most awesome kids - my son is a laugh a minute, and I think my daughter is going to be the most eccentric little gal around - she loves weird music and clothes - remind me of this when she goes goth...
- It's really, really trying to be spring out there - I'll give Mother Nature a break, as we live so far north, but she's got a month to get rid of the snow and start shining that hot sun!
- My Arbonne business is taking off, and I have the best clients a girl can ask for. I'm so appreciative of all of the positive feedback I'm getting, it kind of makes my heart glow! :)
- My house is a mess, but I don't care right now! I'm hanging out with my girl watching Uncle Buck - great for some laughs!
Have a great day! :)
Monday, April 4, 2011
There I Go...
Disappearing again!
I've been doing a lot of reading, but not a lot of blogging lately...
Life around here is about to get super crazy, and I'm not looking forward to it! I'm not a person to be worried by things, I have no problems falling asleep at night and don't let things gnaw away at me. But, lately, I've been worrying about anything and everything.
So. In an attempt to get these stupid thoughts out of my head, in no particular order, here they are!
- I fly out with the 2 kids alone on Friday for a 3 1/2 hour and then a 1 hour flight. Alone.
- We are gone from here for 5 weeks to visit family (isn't that enough of a stomach eater?!?!) and back for 2 weeks before we move.
- The previously mentioned move is to another city, an hour flight away (we are in a remote area only accessible by airplane during the summer, ice roads in the winter)
- Did I mention I've got 2 weeks to get ready for the move after holidays? 2. Weeks.
- I'm not looking forward to moving with a 3 year old and a 4 year old.
- We were told at my son's "speech therapy" appointment (this is in quotations because I think the SLP got her credentials from a cracker jack box) that there was concern about him being on the autism spectrum.
- Spent 3 days crying and freaking out after said appointment.
- Started smoking again after almost 2 months of being smoke free after getting this wonderful news (and believe me, I know that there is no good reason to start again, no excuses. I just didn't give a shit about my quit at. all. at this point)
- Going to have to pick out a school for my daughter to go to in the fall for kindergarten and have no idea what school will fit her the best - trying to do research, but until we get there, I'll have no idea.
Okay, I'm leaving my issues here for tonight, not rolling around in my head keeping me from sleeping (and if you've ever met me on little sleep, I don't function well at all). I'm thinking my next post will be a list of great things going on in my life....
I'll give you a preview..
- My two awesome kids, I could spend all day laughing at them. Goofs.
I've been doing a lot of reading, but not a lot of blogging lately...
Life around here is about to get super crazy, and I'm not looking forward to it! I'm not a person to be worried by things, I have no problems falling asleep at night and don't let things gnaw away at me. But, lately, I've been worrying about anything and everything.
So. In an attempt to get these stupid thoughts out of my head, in no particular order, here they are!
- I fly out with the 2 kids alone on Friday for a 3 1/2 hour and then a 1 hour flight. Alone.
- We are gone from here for 5 weeks to visit family (isn't that enough of a stomach eater?!?!) and back for 2 weeks before we move.
- The previously mentioned move is to another city, an hour flight away (we are in a remote area only accessible by airplane during the summer, ice roads in the winter)
- Did I mention I've got 2 weeks to get ready for the move after holidays? 2. Weeks.
- I'm not looking forward to moving with a 3 year old and a 4 year old.
- We were told at my son's "speech therapy" appointment (this is in quotations because I think the SLP got her credentials from a cracker jack box) that there was concern about him being on the autism spectrum.
- Spent 3 days crying and freaking out after said appointment.
- Started smoking again after almost 2 months of being smoke free after getting this wonderful news (and believe me, I know that there is no good reason to start again, no excuses. I just didn't give a shit about my quit at. all. at this point)
- Going to have to pick out a school for my daughter to go to in the fall for kindergarten and have no idea what school will fit her the best - trying to do research, but until we get there, I'll have no idea.
Okay, I'm leaving my issues here for tonight, not rolling around in my head keeping me from sleeping (and if you've ever met me on little sleep, I don't function well at all). I'm thinking my next post will be a list of great things going on in my life....
I'll give you a preview..
- My two awesome kids, I could spend all day laughing at them. Goofs.
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
The good:
It's my birthday today!! Yay me!! I've always been a birthday person and love to celebrate everyone's birthdays - I love baking and decorating specialty cakes especially for the kids!
And there was a Toy Story cake that I made for our daughter and I can't find the picture right now (it really was an awesome cake).
I'm no professional, but I love making special cakes!
The bad:
I didn't get a cake today. And, if you know me, one of the best parts of birthdays to me is the cake. Love me some cake. Chocolate, vanilla, whatever - gotta have me some cake on a birthday. I didn't get cake, but my sister did send me some mini easter cream eggs - that pretty much makes up for it (not totally, but pretty much).
The ugly:
It wasn't until my husband received an email from a friend of ours (who shares my birthday - we're, like, 2 hours apart) asking dear hubs to wish me a happy birthday from said friend, that he actually realized he forgot my birthday. At 3 in the afternoon. At that point, he frantically tried phoning me for an hour (I was out with the kiddos running errands). He finally got ahold of me and proceeded to make excuses about how he was in a rush to get out of the house in the morning, how he's been busy all day, yadda, yadda, yadda.
I informed him that he does this every year, and that I wasn't surprised (a little choked, yes, but surprised, no). He didn't need to make excuses, as he was only digging himself in deeper.
So, what did I get for a gift, you ask???
Part Four:
The Very Ugly:
Ingredients to make nachos. Yep, you read right. I am now the proud owner of a bag of tacos, a tub of sour cream, a jar of salsa, and an ittttttyyyyy biiiiiiittttttyyyyyy bag of pre-shredded cheese that cost him as much as the large block of cheese I buy every month does. Ummmmm, is this supposed to make up for the cake???? We've been married almost 15 years. Ya think he'd know?
Yeah, this is the same guy who frantically bought me a pair of tennis rackets at 5:45 on Christmas Eve the year we got married. I don't play tennis. He thought it would be something fun we could do together. They been used once. The fun must have really overwhelmed us. Ha!!
Anyway, that's my birthday in a nutshell. Oh, and I got a ton of awesome birthday wishes from all of my friends and family on facebook - I'm so lucky to have such an awesome posse!!
It's my birthday today!! Yay me!! I've always been a birthday person and love to celebrate everyone's birthdays - I love baking and decorating specialty cakes especially for the kids!
And there was a Toy Story cake that I made for our daughter and I can't find the picture right now (it really was an awesome cake).
I'm no professional, but I love making special cakes!
The bad:
I didn't get a cake today. And, if you know me, one of the best parts of birthdays to me is the cake. Love me some cake. Chocolate, vanilla, whatever - gotta have me some cake on a birthday. I didn't get cake, but my sister did send me some mini easter cream eggs - that pretty much makes up for it (not totally, but pretty much).
The ugly:
It wasn't until my husband received an email from a friend of ours (who shares my birthday - we're, like, 2 hours apart) asking dear hubs to wish me a happy birthday from said friend, that he actually realized he forgot my birthday. At 3 in the afternoon. At that point, he frantically tried phoning me for an hour (I was out with the kiddos running errands). He finally got ahold of me and proceeded to make excuses about how he was in a rush to get out of the house in the morning, how he's been busy all day, yadda, yadda, yadda.
I informed him that he does this every year, and that I wasn't surprised (a little choked, yes, but surprised, no). He didn't need to make excuses, as he was only digging himself in deeper.
So, what did I get for a gift, you ask???
Part Four:
The Very Ugly:
Ingredients to make nachos. Yep, you read right. I am now the proud owner of a bag of tacos, a tub of sour cream, a jar of salsa, and an ittttttyyyyy biiiiiiittttttyyyyyy bag of pre-shredded cheese that cost him as much as the large block of cheese I buy every month does. Ummmmm, is this supposed to make up for the cake???? We've been married almost 15 years. Ya think he'd know?
Yeah, this is the same guy who frantically bought me a pair of tennis rackets at 5:45 on Christmas Eve the year we got married. I don't play tennis. He thought it would be something fun we could do together. They been used once. The fun must have really overwhelmed us. Ha!!
Anyway, that's my birthday in a nutshell. Oh, and I got a ton of awesome birthday wishes from all of my friends and family on facebook - I'm so lucky to have such an awesome posse!!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
What is One Thing You Want To Do Today?
I want to take this nice day, grab my camera, and drive to some of the most beautiful places in the area to take some winter pictures. Being that it's March, winter won't be here forever (that's what we keep telling ourselves anyway!), so I want to take some pics before all of the mud and dirt and ick of spring appears. I really do love spring, but because of the make up of the ground where we live, it doesn't exactly soak up the water, so we have giant mud puddles until the sun dries everything up. And that ain't very picture worthy (although the kids love it!).
I'll post pictures of my adventure!
I'll post pictures of my adventure!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
The State of My World
The Good:
My new Arbonne venture is going great - I am still so excited about this!! I love it when people love this stuff - it confirms to me why I love doing this!
My kids are hilarious! I just love to laugh at them and the silly things they do - they crack me up and I'm so amazed to see they have the senses of humor that they do at this young age!
We are less than a month away from heading back down south to see the fam dam. I'd better get a move on with all of the stuff I want to get done before we leave!
We have some exciting news - I can't share yet, but hopefully soon - I am a horrible secret keeper!
I am 6 weeks and a day smoke free! I'm doing awesome with my quit, but am a little nervous to go "home" and be quit. I know I can do it, it's just that sometimes family gets my bp up, and my cravings kick in.
I'm getting more blogging in, which makes me happy, and I have a few new followers, which is awesome! Love to see comments and love to check out everyone else's blogs as well! Welcome!!
The bad:
My heart hurts for a few people tonight - not to get into specifics, but it's hard to see people hurting when you know you can't do anything for them.
I need to organize my house AKA: dejunk!! I am lacking a little motivation, hopefully that will come to me.
It's still bloody cold here. -40 C (that's -40 F for my American friends as well!) is getting really old. And when the weather does turn nicer, the wind picks up, jacking up the wind chill. Yeesh - I wish spring would come already!!
That's about it for now, how has your week been? Happy weekend everyone!
My new Arbonne venture is going great - I am still so excited about this!! I love it when people love this stuff - it confirms to me why I love doing this!
My kids are hilarious! I just love to laugh at them and the silly things they do - they crack me up and I'm so amazed to see they have the senses of humor that they do at this young age!
We are less than a month away from heading back down south to see the fam dam. I'd better get a move on with all of the stuff I want to get done before we leave!
We have some exciting news - I can't share yet, but hopefully soon - I am a horrible secret keeper!
I am 6 weeks and a day smoke free! I'm doing awesome with my quit, but am a little nervous to go "home" and be quit. I know I can do it, it's just that sometimes family gets my bp up, and my cravings kick in.
I'm getting more blogging in, which makes me happy, and I have a few new followers, which is awesome! Love to see comments and love to check out everyone else's blogs as well! Welcome!!
The bad:
My heart hurts for a few people tonight - not to get into specifics, but it's hard to see people hurting when you know you can't do anything for them.
I need to organize my house AKA: dejunk!! I am lacking a little motivation, hopefully that will come to me.
It's still bloody cold here. -40 C (that's -40 F for my American friends as well!) is getting really old. And when the weather does turn nicer, the wind picks up, jacking up the wind chill. Yeesh - I wish spring would come already!!
That's about it for now, how has your week been? Happy weekend everyone!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
The ABCs of Me!
I borrow this one from one of my fellow bloggers, Sweet Pea. Hop on over and give her a visit, but in the meantime, here are the ABCs of me!
A. Age: 37 (for now, I turn 38 on in 9 days!)
B. Bed size: Queen size
C. Chore you dislike: the endless mounds of laundry in this house!
D. Dogs: Not now, we had to put our beloved Harley down a couple of years ago. We really miss her.
E. Essential start to your day: Don't even talk to me until I've had my coffee!
F. Favorite color: Green
G. Gold or silver: Gold.
H. Height: 5'4"
I. Instruments you play(ed): Piano, french horn, trumpet
J. Job title: Director of In-House Operations - HA! Me too Sweet Pea!
K. Kids: 2 - Daughter - 4, Son - 3 next month.
L. Live: Northern Canada, less than 60 miles from the Arctic Circle
M. Mom’s name: Penny
N. Nicknames: Roo, Cliff, Clairebear
O. Overnight hospital stays: Tonsils at 7, children's birth X 2
P. Pet peeves: Crumbs on the floor
Q. Quote from a movie: "I tend to think of myself as a one-man wolf pack." Zach Galifianakis - The Hangover
R. Righty or lefty: Righty.
S. Siblings: Older sister, younger brother - that's right - I have middle child syndrome (whatever that is!).
T. Time you wake up: If the kids are nice, 8 am on a day with nothing scheduled, 7 am on playgroup days.
U. Underwear: Gosh, I hope so.
V. Vegetables you don’t like: Not crazy about lima beans, and I just made kale chips the other day - epic fail!
W.What makes you run late: My children and my husband - it's pretty much everyone else's fault!
X. X-rays you’ve had: Dental
Y. Yummy food you make: I love to cook and bake, and my sweet hubby says he loves everything I make. (hey that rhymed!)
Z. Zoo animal favorites: I love polar bears (I guess we live in the right place!), and the dolphins at sea world.
Who's next? Please let me know if you've done this too, so I can read about you!! (that rhymed, too! ha)
A. Age: 37 (for now, I turn 38 on in 9 days!)
B. Bed size: Queen size
C. Chore you dislike: the endless mounds of laundry in this house!
D. Dogs: Not now, we had to put our beloved Harley down a couple of years ago. We really miss her.
E. Essential start to your day: Don't even talk to me until I've had my coffee!
F. Favorite color: Green
G. Gold or silver: Gold.
H. Height: 5'4"
I. Instruments you play(ed): Piano, french horn, trumpet
J. Job title: Director of In-House Operations - HA! Me too Sweet Pea!
K. Kids: 2 - Daughter - 4, Son - 3 next month.
L. Live: Northern Canada, less than 60 miles from the Arctic Circle
M. Mom’s name: Penny
N. Nicknames: Roo, Cliff, Clairebear
O. Overnight hospital stays: Tonsils at 7, children's birth X 2
P. Pet peeves: Crumbs on the floor
Q. Quote from a movie: "I tend to think of myself as a one-man wolf pack." Zach Galifianakis - The Hangover
R. Righty or lefty: Righty.
S. Siblings: Older sister, younger brother - that's right - I have middle child syndrome (whatever that is!).
T. Time you wake up: If the kids are nice, 8 am on a day with nothing scheduled, 7 am on playgroup days.
U. Underwear: Gosh, I hope so.
V. Vegetables you don’t like: Not crazy about lima beans, and I just made kale chips the other day - epic fail!
W.What makes you run late: My children and my husband - it's pretty much everyone else's fault!
X. X-rays you’ve had: Dental
Y. Yummy food you make: I love to cook and bake, and my sweet hubby says he loves everything I make. (hey that rhymed!)
Z. Zoo animal favorites: I love polar bears (I guess we live in the right place!), and the dolphins at sea world.
Who's next? Please let me know if you've done this too, so I can read about you!! (that rhymed, too! ha)
Sunday, March 6, 2011
What Do You Remember?
I came across a post on facebook today that reminisced about things that remind you of childhood. When was your childhood? Mine was in the late 70's and 80's (from what I can remember, I was just a wee one in the early 70's). As I read this post, I suddenly was hit with vivid memories - a couple of them brought tears to my eyes - I had such an awesome time being a kid!! Here are some of my favorites from my younger years:
Running through the sprinklers on a HOT day.
Riding your bike as hard as you could until your legs burned.
A first kiss at the roller rink, and though it was supposed to be special, it was the most disgusting thing I'd experienced thus far in my life.
The first day of school.
The last day of school.
Christmas morning.
Going on a vacation - it was all fun - all of it. There was no packing, no driving, no stress - kids don't have to worry about that stuff.
Cream of Wheat on the stove on a cold winter's morning.
Crawling into Mom and Dad's bed after a bad dream.
Four square, hopscotch, dodge ball, tetherball.
Game days, whether it was for ringette, volleyball or softball.
Having a true BFF.
Having a fight with my true BFF.
Making up with my true BFF.
Favorite teachers.
Watching lightening storms from our picture window.
Camping, and wandering through the forest for no reason other than to just be there.
Opening birthday presents first thing in the morning on Mom and Dad's bed.
Friday's pizza night. Every Friday.
Saturday morning cartoons. Accompanied by cold pizza.
The Flintstones. Family Ties. Cheers. The Bugs Bunny and Tweety Show. The Waltons.
Olivia Newton John. The Bee Gees. David Cassidy.
Sleep overs.
Only having to dial the last four numbers when I phoned anyone.
Summertime freedom with cement so hot, you couldn't walk on it.
Wishing I could grow up. Faster.
Running through the sprinklers on a HOT day.
Riding your bike as hard as you could until your legs burned.
A first kiss at the roller rink, and though it was supposed to be special, it was the most disgusting thing I'd experienced thus far in my life.
The first day of school.
The last day of school.
Christmas morning.
Going on a vacation - it was all fun - all of it. There was no packing, no driving, no stress - kids don't have to worry about that stuff.
Cream of Wheat on the stove on a cold winter's morning.
Crawling into Mom and Dad's bed after a bad dream.
Four square, hopscotch, dodge ball, tetherball.
Game days, whether it was for ringette, volleyball or softball.
Having a true BFF.
Having a fight with my true BFF.
Making up with my true BFF.
Favorite teachers.
Watching lightening storms from our picture window.
Camping, and wandering through the forest for no reason other than to just be there.
Opening birthday presents first thing in the morning on Mom and Dad's bed.
Friday's pizza night. Every Friday.
Saturday morning cartoons. Accompanied by cold pizza.
The Flintstones. Family Ties. Cheers. The Bugs Bunny and Tweety Show. The Waltons.
Olivia Newton John. The Bee Gees. David Cassidy.
Sleep overs.
Only having to dial the last four numbers when I phoned anyone.
Summertime freedom with cement so hot, you couldn't walk on it.
Wishing I could grow up. Faster.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
My New Favorite Things!
So, being a brand spankin' new Arbonne Independent Consultant, I have discovered that I have some new favorite things! (besides my hubs and kids!). These new faves are things that smell yummy, things that are soothing, and things that make me smile!
Numero uno fave thing:
The FC5 line of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Mmmmmm......smells so good, and works even better. We carry one type of hair care, because it will adjust to your hair type! Awesome stuff! And the Invigorating Body Cleanser (doesn't that sound like a spa in a bottle?!) is just as awesome! Love this stuff!!
My second favorite thing these days is:
Now, this stuff is amazing!!! Not only is it anti-aging, it is also reversal! I have been using this product for a month - it consists of face wash, toner, renewal serum, day creme, eye creme and night creme - and I have seen an incredible difference in my *ahem* happy lines (as I like to tell my daughter they are called). As I looked in the mirror last night, I couldn't believe how I couldn't see the lines on the outsides of my eyes anymore! I wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it. And, all of the products smell amazing!!!
The last favorite thing I'll tell you about (because, really, I could go on and on, that's how great this product is) is a protein shake:
These are Arbonne's figure 8 protein shakes. I have never met a protein shake that I have liked. Seriously, I never saw the benefit in them, and why would I take something with no benefit if it tasted like chalk. Seriously. I got the vanilla flavor in on the advice of the sweet, patient and generous gal who has agreed to take me on as a new consultant (bless her heart!). Well, lemme tell ya! Not only is this shake (which comes in powder form) vegan, gluten free, chalk full of vitamins and minerals, etc. etc. etc., it is yummy with a capital yum!! I add it to my smoothies - a little yogurt, banana, wheat germ, flax seed, milk and a scoop of shake mix - oh man, it's heaven in a glass!! And when I don't have time to make this heavenly concoction, a scoop mixed with milk gives me my meal replacement (and a little sweet fix, too!). I heart this product! A lot.
There are some really awesome and amazing facts about our products:
All of our proprietary ingredients are:
*Botanically Based: A proprietary blending of science and nature based on herbal and botanical principles.
*pH Correct: Skin care pH of 5.5 ensures maximum benefit.
*Hypoallergenic: Voluntary human testing meets Hypoallergenic substantiation claim criteria.
*Dermatologist tested: Voluntary human tests done under the watchful eye of an independent dermatologist.
*No animal testing: We never have and never will!
*No animal products/by-products: Plants and herbs together with science and technology offer superior benefits.
*No mineral oil: Occlusive oil that can interfere with skin functions as well as advanced delivery systems.
*No chemical fragrance or dyes: Dyes and fragrances are known irritants and can cause allergic reactions.
Oh, I love this company! And, to boot - I have this amazing opportunity to make a living for myself and my family, and have an absolute blast doing it! I am so excited about having my own Arbonne business, and so happy that I can confidently show each and every product to people, knowing that they are true, quality products.
If you would like to find out more about the products, would like to request samples, or are looking for your opportunity, please have a gander around my website or leave me a message here!
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Numero uno fave thing:
The FC5 line of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Mmmmmm......smells so good, and works even better. We carry one type of hair care, because it will adjust to your hair type! Awesome stuff! And the Invigorating Body Cleanser (doesn't that sound like a spa in a bottle?!) is just as awesome! Love this stuff!!
My second favorite thing these days is:
Now, this stuff is amazing!!! Not only is it anti-aging, it is also reversal! I have been using this product for a month - it consists of face wash, toner, renewal serum, day creme, eye creme and night creme - and I have seen an incredible difference in my *ahem* happy lines (as I like to tell my daughter they are called). As I looked in the mirror last night, I couldn't believe how I couldn't see the lines on the outsides of my eyes anymore! I wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it. And, all of the products smell amazing!!!
The last favorite thing I'll tell you about (because, really, I could go on and on, that's how great this product is) is a protein shake:
There are some really awesome and amazing facts about our products:
All of our proprietary ingredients are:
*Botanically Based: A proprietary blending of science and nature based on herbal and botanical principles.
*pH Correct: Skin care pH of 5.5 ensures maximum benefit.
*Hypoallergenic: Voluntary human testing meets Hypoallergenic substantiation claim criteria.
*Dermatologist tested: Voluntary human tests done under the watchful eye of an independent dermatologist.
*No animal testing: We never have and never will!
*No animal products/by-products: Plants and herbs together with science and technology offer superior benefits.
*No mineral oil: Occlusive oil that can interfere with skin functions as well as advanced delivery systems.
*No chemical fragrance or dyes: Dyes and fragrances are known irritants and can cause allergic reactions.
Oh, I love this company! And, to boot - I have this amazing opportunity to make a living for myself and my family, and have an absolute blast doing it! I am so excited about having my own Arbonne business, and so happy that I can confidently show each and every product to people, knowing that they are true, quality products.
If you would like to find out more about the products, would like to request samples, or are looking for your opportunity, please have a gander around my website or leave me a message here!
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Feel Good Friday
Click over to Lia Sophia Tomgirl to link up on this week's Feel Good Friday!!
I haven't done Feel Good Friday for quite some time, but I'm feelin' pretty darn good this Friday!
I did something I have always wanted to do, but was too scared to. I started my own home business. I am now an Arbonne Independent Consultant. This is a company I really believe in and I love their products so much that I'm willing to spend my time and money giving people the opportunity to love them as much as I do, and encourage them that they too can make a living for themselves!!
I am feeling pretty good today because I am proud of myself for taking this step. My story is here on the first page. I have felt more energy this week than I have in a long time. Not only am I challenging myself with new things, I am finding that I have more energy during the day for my kids. It's a win-win! Happy Mommy = happy kids! Ha!
I'm finding that because I've always worked in an industry where the customer always comes to me, this is a real challenge in changing my marketing strategies. I'm learning a new way to do business, and I'm soaking up all of this information. This business has real potential for me to make some real money and give me real personal/professional satisfaction, and I'm so pumped!!
But mostly, I'm having a Feel Good Friday because I did something I never thought I'd have the courage to do. That is big for me!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
My New Adventure!
I'm so excited to announce that I am now officially an independent Arbonne consultant!! I love these products so much, and love the fact that they are actually "healthy" products, no animal testing, no using animal products or by-products, almost all of the products contain no parabens, the list goes on and on.
And, these products are amazing! I used the kids line for both of my kids, who had horrible spots of eczema when they were babies - the lotion cleared it right up. After trying everything, this stuff worked! I revisited the products when my hubby was having some really bad skin problems a while ago. He tried a sample of the face cream, and right after using it, the redness went away, and he said, "Claire, I can't believe I'm beautiful again!!!!" I had to laugh, but he has tried every face cream out there, as well as prescription creams that I knew were so bad for his skin. I have to add that the hand cream is divine - mmmmmm, smells amazing and absolutely no grease! A-mazing!
Anyway, being a stay at home Mom, and being used to working, I was getting antsy. When this opportunity presented itself, I jumped - partially because I look so forward to working again, but mostly because I love and believe in this product so much!!
I am officially starting my new business this week! I'm hoping people love this product as much as I do!
Check out my new website and have a look at the different products - there's something for everyone! If you have any questions, please leave me a comment here, or email me from my website!
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
And, these products are amazing! I used the kids line for both of my kids, who had horrible spots of eczema when they were babies - the lotion cleared it right up. After trying everything, this stuff worked! I revisited the products when my hubby was having some really bad skin problems a while ago. He tried a sample of the face cream, and right after using it, the redness went away, and he said, "Claire, I can't believe I'm beautiful again!!!!" I had to laugh, but he has tried every face cream out there, as well as prescription creams that I knew were so bad for his skin. I have to add that the hand cream is divine - mmmmmm, smells amazing and absolutely no grease! A-mazing!
Anyway, being a stay at home Mom, and being used to working, I was getting antsy. When this opportunity presented itself, I jumped - partially because I look so forward to working again, but mostly because I love and believe in this product so much!!
I am officially starting my new business this week! I'm hoping people love this product as much as I do!
Check out my new website and have a look at the different products - there's something for everyone! If you have any questions, please leave me a comment here, or email me from my website!
www.clairedonison.myarbonne.ca
Thursday, February 17, 2011
I'm so excited!!
I have something really big for me on the go and I'm so excited!!! I've decided that along with being a wife and Mom, I need to step outside the box a little. (No, I'm not running away to join the circus or anything!)
I am waiting until I get a little further ahead in my plan, and a little more prepared, but I should be unveiling the big news next week sometime.
My mind has been going a million miles a minute with plans and strategies and ideas...I've never done something like this before, and I really believe I can be good at this....
So excited!!!
Stay tuned.....
I am waiting until I get a little further ahead in my plan, and a little more prepared, but I should be unveiling the big news next week sometime.
My mind has been going a million miles a minute with plans and strategies and ideas...I've never done something like this before, and I really believe I can be good at this....
So excited!!!
Stay tuned.....
Monday, February 14, 2011
Happy Valentine's Day!!
Hope you're having a wonderful love day - love for your spouse, love for your kids, love for anything - heck, even love for that big piece of chocolate sitting between you and the remote control!! (That would be me I'm talking about - hubby is on the other couch on his laptop). We had a nice dinner (roast and french fries - we are all about the classy food for special occasions!), some chocolate fun, and even a cake that we decorated today - there's always a reason for cake!
So, in honor of this "jour de l'amour", I have the official valentine's day quiz extraordinaire!! (Not really, but play along anyway!)
1. What would your ideal gift be from your lovie?
My ideal gift would be a day without any work around the house. Sleeping in, having breakfast made for me (and I wouldn't care how messy the kitchen got because he would do the dishes), an afternoon to go out shopping, or play on the net, or do some writing or whatever I wanted. Supper made for me, again no clean up required on my part, and nice long bath, a great chick flick movie, and then off to bed in freshly laundered sheets and duvet. Sigh....oh, and the biggest part of the day would be not having to deal with screaming kids!
2. They say that when you're really in love, you'd give your life for that person. But, would you give your last chocolate (or whatever you have a hard time giving away)?
My last piece of chocolate? No way. And, he knows it. He doesn't ask for it any more.
3. What is one thing you would change about your love?
I wish he could dance. I don't mean, get on the dance floor and get down to Beyonce or Cee Lo - I mean really dance with class, waltzing, two step, wedding dance kind of dance. My hubby has no rhythm. He thinks he does. He also thinks he can sing. In fact, the other day, he was telling me he can sing as good as Elvis. riiiiiight....
4. What is one thing you would never change?
I would never change the way he is devoted to his family. He loves his kids like no other Daddy, and would do anything for all of us. His heart is only for his family, and I will probably never know how lucky I am to have someone's heart like that.
5. What is a funny quirk he/she has?
He makes up words. And he thinks they are real, or they should be real. For example:
Bandwaggoneer - not just a bandwaggoner, this person is the leader of people jumping on the band wagon.
Suffercate - this word makes total sense to him - when you suffocate, you definitely suffer.
Now - your turn. Share. 3-2-1 Go!!
So, in honor of this "jour de l'amour", I have the official valentine's day quiz extraordinaire!! (Not really, but play along anyway!)
1. What would your ideal gift be from your lovie?
My ideal gift would be a day without any work around the house. Sleeping in, having breakfast made for me (and I wouldn't care how messy the kitchen got because he would do the dishes), an afternoon to go out shopping, or play on the net, or do some writing or whatever I wanted. Supper made for me, again no clean up required on my part, and nice long bath, a great chick flick movie, and then off to bed in freshly laundered sheets and duvet. Sigh....oh, and the biggest part of the day would be not having to deal with screaming kids!
2. They say that when you're really in love, you'd give your life for that person. But, would you give your last chocolate (or whatever you have a hard time giving away)?
My last piece of chocolate? No way. And, he knows it. He doesn't ask for it any more.
3. What is one thing you would change about your love?
I wish he could dance. I don't mean, get on the dance floor and get down to Beyonce or Cee Lo - I mean really dance with class, waltzing, two step, wedding dance kind of dance. My hubby has no rhythm. He thinks he does. He also thinks he can sing. In fact, the other day, he was telling me he can sing as good as Elvis. riiiiiight....
4. What is one thing you would never change?
I would never change the way he is devoted to his family. He loves his kids like no other Daddy, and would do anything for all of us. His heart is only for his family, and I will probably never know how lucky I am to have someone's heart like that.
5. What is a funny quirk he/she has?
He makes up words. And he thinks they are real, or they should be real. For example:
Bandwaggoneer - not just a bandwaggoner, this person is the leader of people jumping on the band wagon.
Suffercate - this word makes total sense to him - when you suffocate, you definitely suffer.
Now - your turn. Share. 3-2-1 Go!!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Appliance Queen
Oh, how I love new appliances!! It's a rush every time I order a new small appliance for my kitchen (or other gadgets for around the house!). No, I'm not addicted to shopping, in fact I detest shopping. So much so, that I won't go to Vegas with certain friends because all they want to do is shop. Not my idea of fun.
Back to my appliances.
Where we live, it's very difficult to do any shopping. We have to order pretty much everything over the internet. Suits me fine - I'd rather be shopping in my jammies anyway! One of my favorite purchases has been my bread maker. I heart this bread maker - it even makes jam, would you believe? Well, believe it, it's true!
I've had my bread maker for a little over a year, and use it at least every other day.
My latest purchases have been a waffle maker and a toaster. I really like my new Cuisinart toaster, but I looooooove my new Belgium waffle maker! Love, love, love.
I think one of the reasons I love this waffle maker so much is the fantastic recipe I found to make the waffles. It is a little complex, uses yeast, and is best if left overnight. So, the plan is that I will make this waffle dough (it really is a dough - not runny at all!) on Saturday night, and we have yummo waffles every Sunday morning. Doesn't take much to make this prairie girl happy!
Back to my appliances.
Where we live, it's very difficult to do any shopping. We have to order pretty much everything over the internet. Suits me fine - I'd rather be shopping in my jammies anyway! One of my favorite purchases has been my bread maker. I heart this bread maker - it even makes jam, would you believe? Well, believe it, it's true!
 |
| photo courtesy google images |
I've had my bread maker for a little over a year, and use it at least every other day.
My latest purchases have been a waffle maker and a toaster. I really like my new Cuisinart toaster, but I looooooove my new Belgium waffle maker! Love, love, love.
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| photo courtesy of google images |
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Day 4
It's now day 4, and I have to say I'm doing pretty darn good! I've had cravings here and there, but nothing unmanageable. Today, though, I woke up with a screamin' headache and the feeling like my eyeballs are going to explode - but I might just be getting sick, who knows...
When you're doing something like quitting smoking, try to lose weight, etc. they say that the most successful people are the ones who seek support from others. I never really bought into that, as I'm a pretty private person and very proud, so I hardly ever ask for help. However, I searched Google for a quit smoking support board and found one I thought I could hang around with. I registered, introduced myself, and found myself faced with a whole mess of welcomes and congratulations from its members. Now if that doesn't make a person feel good....!
I have also posted on another board that I frequent and was met with another onslaught of well wishes. Two things occurred to me in all of this. One, people just wantto encourage others and share their experiences with them. Two, the encouragement and support from complete strangers does wonders! I feel completely stronger in my quit because of all of the great comments I've gotten.
I truly believe this applies in no matter what you're setting out to do - quit smoking, lose weight, change habits, anything.
Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to give me their support, every single comment does make a difference!
When you're doing something like quitting smoking, try to lose weight, etc. they say that the most successful people are the ones who seek support from others. I never really bought into that, as I'm a pretty private person and very proud, so I hardly ever ask for help. However, I searched Google for a quit smoking support board and found one I thought I could hang around with. I registered, introduced myself, and found myself faced with a whole mess of welcomes and congratulations from its members. Now if that doesn't make a person feel good....!
I have also posted on another board that I frequent and was met with another onslaught of well wishes. Two things occurred to me in all of this. One, people just wantto encourage others and share their experiences with them. Two, the encouragement and support from complete strangers does wonders! I feel completely stronger in my quit because of all of the great comments I've gotten.
I truly believe this applies in no matter what you're setting out to do - quit smoking, lose weight, change habits, anything.
Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to give me their support, every single comment does make a difference!
Friday, January 28, 2011
I Quit!
Edited to add: This post is my Feel Good Friday!! I can't imagine feeling better about anything right now than not smoking!! Hop on over the Tami's blog to join in the fun!!
So, I have a little (actually gigantic) ugly secret. I am a smoker. Check that, I was a smoker. I had my last cigarette a couple of days ago. I'm doing good, still craving a smoke like crazy more often than I would like, but I'm fighting them off, and slowly, very slowly getting control of this awful death grip.
I know that probably most of you reading this aren't smokers, and probably have never smoked. (People like me seem to be in the huge minority these days!) It is so hard for someone who someone who hasn't gone through this to understand how hard it is at times, just as it's hard for me to understand how it is it be really sick, or depressed or any of the things I'm not. Smoking, not wanting to smoke, quitting smoking - it gives me a whole crap load more empathy for people in their own difficult situations.
You see, I have this great husband. And, these two great kids. And I think it's incredibly selfish to be smoking, polluting my body, killing myself, when I have this great family. And, that's not even mentioning the other members of my family and my great friends. Where the heck would they be without me? I mean, come on, I would be doing the world a huge disservice by killing myself through smoking.
The day I had my last cigarette, I had a talk with my 4 year old daughter. I told her I needed to talk to her, that it was really important. I think she thought she was in trouble for something, or that she was sentenced to her room for not cleaning it. I sat her down, looked deep into her eyes, and said, "Mommy is not going to smoke anymore. Smoking is so bad for me, and I love you guys, and I'm not going to smoke." She tilted her head, and seemed to get tears in her eyes, mirroring mine. She thought for a minute and then softly said, "but Mommy, if you hold them carefully, you won't burn yourself!"
Out of the mouths of babes.
That just kind of makes me realize how precious the gifts I am giving up are to me. Like I said before, I think smoking is selfish. I am a hypocrite (or I was!). It's funny, because when people found out I smoked, they were surprised. I am a 37 year old Mom to 2 young kids, seemingly healthy gal, and smoking is a disgusting little habit - one reserved for other people. Not me. Well, I'm a girl who started smoking at 14, was part of a group growing up where 90% of her friends smoked, watched practically all of them give it up years ago, felt left out because I just couldn't seem to get rid of this nastiness. But, now I'm saying good bye to it for good.
I'm missing it a little, but not for long. I'm going to realize how great it is to not be tied down to this addiction.
I'm not going to be that chick that sneaks outside for a smoke anymore, smelling like stinky butt.
I'm going to do this. After all, I don't have it so bad - there is always someone else out there getting through much bigger struggles than mine - and I have so much to gain from this!
So, I have a little (actually gigantic) ugly secret. I am a smoker. Check that, I was a smoker. I had my last cigarette a couple of days ago. I'm doing good, still craving a smoke like crazy more often than I would like, but I'm fighting them off, and slowly, very slowly getting control of this awful death grip.
I know that probably most of you reading this aren't smokers, and probably have never smoked. (People like me seem to be in the huge minority these days!) It is so hard for someone who someone who hasn't gone through this to understand how hard it is at times, just as it's hard for me to understand how it is it be really sick, or depressed or any of the things I'm not. Smoking, not wanting to smoke, quitting smoking - it gives me a whole crap load more empathy for people in their own difficult situations.
You see, I have this great husband. And, these two great kids. And I think it's incredibly selfish to be smoking, polluting my body, killing myself, when I have this great family. And, that's not even mentioning the other members of my family and my great friends. Where the heck would they be without me? I mean, come on, I would be doing the world a huge disservice by killing myself through smoking.
The day I had my last cigarette, I had a talk with my 4 year old daughter. I told her I needed to talk to her, that it was really important. I think she thought she was in trouble for something, or that she was sentenced to her room for not cleaning it. I sat her down, looked deep into her eyes, and said, "Mommy is not going to smoke anymore. Smoking is so bad for me, and I love you guys, and I'm not going to smoke." She tilted her head, and seemed to get tears in her eyes, mirroring mine. She thought for a minute and then softly said, "but Mommy, if you hold them carefully, you won't burn yourself!"
Out of the mouths of babes.
That just kind of makes me realize how precious the gifts I am giving up are to me. Like I said before, I think smoking is selfish. I am a hypocrite (or I was!). It's funny, because when people found out I smoked, they were surprised. I am a 37 year old Mom to 2 young kids, seemingly healthy gal, and smoking is a disgusting little habit - one reserved for other people. Not me. Well, I'm a girl who started smoking at 14, was part of a group growing up where 90% of her friends smoked, watched practically all of them give it up years ago, felt left out because I just couldn't seem to get rid of this nastiness. But, now I'm saying good bye to it for good.
I'm missing it a little, but not for long. I'm going to realize how great it is to not be tied down to this addiction.
I'm not going to be that chick that sneaks outside for a smoke anymore, smelling like stinky butt.
I'm going to do this. After all, I don't have it so bad - there is always someone else out there getting through much bigger struggles than mine - and I have so much to gain from this!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bullet Points
Hopefully that title isn't going to make some total left wing nut think I'm trying to insight hatred...
I digress.
- My daughter called my hubby a "meaniac" because he scared her on purpose the other day. Love that she created a new word. She's 4. I'm calling Websters. And maybe Guinness.
- I have a cut UNDER my fingernail. It hurts a lot. And I can't get it to heal because of all of this handwashing I'm doing to try and stay alive this winter (or at least a little healthy).
- I have a gajillion programs PVR'd that I haven't watched. I refuse to delete anything - I'll get to it...
- This winter has been so cold and indoorsy- I literally sat here and though if there was actually a way I could climb the walls. It looked like fun. Couldn't do it.
- We are buying a treadmill. Hopefully soon. And, hopefully we'll be more motivated to get on it and use it than we are about ordering it. Living up north sucks for having stuff shipped to you. Nobody will ship the heavy stuff - too costly.
- I am sick and tired of the foxes stealing dirty diapers off of my front porch and leaving them on my driveway. I realize this makes me sound like the trashiest of the trailer park, but I keep them in a plastic bag, frozen on the porch so I can take them across the street to the bin at night. Damn foxes.
- I really like that the sun isn't going down before 4pm - and I really like that I can finally see the sun over the roofs of the houses across the street. For a couple of months, we don't directly see the sun, it's hidden by buildings. Gettin' out the SPF.
- I should have made my New Year's resolution to go to bed early every night. Takes away from my "me" time, so midnight or later is usually the norm.
On that note, I'm going to bed!
I digress.
- My daughter called my hubby a "meaniac" because he scared her on purpose the other day. Love that she created a new word. She's 4. I'm calling Websters. And maybe Guinness.
- I have a cut UNDER my fingernail. It hurts a lot. And I can't get it to heal because of all of this handwashing I'm doing to try and stay alive this winter (or at least a little healthy).
- I have a gajillion programs PVR'd that I haven't watched. I refuse to delete anything - I'll get to it...
- This winter has been so cold and indoorsy- I literally sat here and though if there was actually a way I could climb the walls. It looked like fun. Couldn't do it.
- We are buying a treadmill. Hopefully soon. And, hopefully we'll be more motivated to get on it and use it than we are about ordering it. Living up north sucks for having stuff shipped to you. Nobody will ship the heavy stuff - too costly.
- I am sick and tired of the foxes stealing dirty diapers off of my front porch and leaving them on my driveway. I realize this makes me sound like the trashiest of the trailer park, but I keep them in a plastic bag, frozen on the porch so I can take them across the street to the bin at night. Damn foxes.
- I really like that the sun isn't going down before 4pm - and I really like that I can finally see the sun over the roofs of the houses across the street. For a couple of months, we don't directly see the sun, it's hidden by buildings. Gettin' out the SPF.
- I should have made my New Year's resolution to go to bed early every night. Takes away from my "me" time, so midnight or later is usually the norm.
On that note, I'm going to bed!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Needing to Remember What I've Always Believed
My husband is in a job that moves us around. A lot. In the last 10 years, we've moved 4 times. And, we are on the move again this summer. There are multiple issues surrounding this move. Our daughter is starting kindergarten in the fall and it's important that we go to a community with a good school.
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| courtesy of google images |
We live in the extreme north of Canada. Like, 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. North. A lot of the communities up here have a lot of social problems, alcohol problems, etc., therefore, they maybe aren't the best place for your kids to be socializing. However, these communities sometimes have wonderful teachers at their schools, a lot of times, these teachers also come from the south to work. Many times, it is difficult to find anything for your kids to do in the community, and with the extreme cold weather, we don't even leave the house on a lot of winter days.
Why are we here, you ask? Well, with our kids being so young, and with my hubby gaining a promotion to move up here, along with the fact that there is a lot of money to be made up here (read: savings for the kids' educations and our retirements), it seemed attractive to us. And for the most part, the north is a wonderful place. I come from a place of extreme cold in the winter from time to time, and we are normally home bodies anyway, so this place kind of fits like a sheepskin glove, so to speak.
We have an opportunity to move to a place where hubby will be working away 2 nights a week, and we only get paid to travel home 1 time a year (as opposed to 2 where we are here). It's more expensive to get out of (there is a road, and it's a 7 hour drive to much cheaper flights). The major up side is that the school and preschool in this town is apparently very good. The more I think about it, and talk about it with my other half, the more sense it makes to us, and the more we are leaning to moving here. In the end, with all other details out of the way, the experience for the kids is the most important thing here.
I must sound pretty conflicted, and apologize for babbling, but, like I said - the more I think about it, the more it makes sense. I love coming to cold, hard convictions. Hopefully this will be one of them.
And, I need to remember what I've always believed - you are always just where you should be, and you are where you are for a reason.
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